Trans Mara East Sub-County Education Director has expressed satisfaction with the noticeable decline in teen pregnancies in the region, attributing the improvement to sustained collaboration between educators, parents, and community-based organizations.
Speaking to the press in his office in Emurua Dikirr, Walter Wanjala acknowledged that teen marriages, early pregnancies, and female genital mutilation (FGM) remain persistent challenges in Narok County which has greatly affected the girls’ education.
“It’s encouraging to see more girls completing their education and joining universities,” he said. “This is a major milestone compared to previous years when many dropped out due to early pregnancies and forced marriages.”
“These retrogressive practices continue to hinder education for girls,” he said. “But we’re hopeful that with continued awareness and enforcement, we can stamp them out completely.”
Wanjala also revealed that preparations for this year’s national examinations and assessment are well underway, with efforts being made to ensure a smooth and secure process for all candidates.
He said the department is working closely with various stakeholders to ensure the exams for Grade 6, Grade 9, and Form Four students proceed without hitches.
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“We are fully prepared and confident that this year’s examinations will run smoothly,” said Wanjala. “We’ve partnered with school heads, security agencies, and community leaders to ensure everything is in place.”
He urged parents to provide full support to candidates during this critical period.
“Parents play a crucial role. We’re calling on them to encourage and support their children, especially those in candidate classes, so they can perform at their best,” he added.
Narok County remains one of the regions with the highest prevalence of FGM and child marriage in Kenya. Local reports indicate that many girls are subjected to FGM before being married off, leading to school dropouts and long-term health risks.
The Ministry of Education, in partnership with local leaders and civil society groups, has been running advocacy programs aimed at ending harmful cultural practices and keeping girls in school.
As the national examination period approaches, education officials in Trans Mara East are optimistic that a combination of preparation, community support, and policy enforcement will yield improved outcomes for learners across the region.
By Kimutai Langat
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