Concern as Cases of Rape, Early Marriages and Child Labour Rise in Mwea

By BRIAN MUSYOKA 

The leaders who spoke during the celebrations of the Day of the African Child held at ACK Riakanau Grounds in Mwea Sub-county, expressed concern that many of the abuses are being perpetrated by individuals who are supposed to protect children. 

Embu County Coordinator for Children's Services, Devlin Mundi, said cases of sexual abuse involving minors remain a major concern in the region. "It is unfortunate that some of the people abusing children are close relatives and individuals entrusted with their care," said Mundi.

He emphasized the need for collaboration among government agencies, religious organizations, parents and the community to protect children from abuse and exploitation. "We must work together to fight this vice because it is exposing many children to serious risks and denying them their rights," he added.

Wang'uru Magistrate Philomen Lemei noted that courts in the area continue to receive numerous defilement and rape cases involving minors. "We are handling many cases of sexual abuse against children, and it is worrying that a significant number of the perpetrators are relatives who should be safeguarding these children," said Lemei.

Mwea Sub-county Deputy County Commissioner John Marete also raised concern over the increasing cases of child labour, particularly in farming areas around Masinga Dam and the Mwea Irrigation Scheme. He said many school-going children are abandoning their studies to engage in farm work, a trend that threatens their education and future prospects. "Many learners are leaving classrooms to work on farms. We urge parents and all stakeholders to join hands in addressing this challenge and ensuring children remain in school," said Marete.

Mbeere Diocese Anglican deputy Bishop John Kimani said the church was deeply concerned by the rising cases of abuse and exploitation targeting children in the region. "The church is astonished by the increasing number of such cases, and we are committed to working closely with other stakeholders to protect children and promote their welfare," said Bishop Kimani.

Thomas Tharau of the Bible Society of Kenya urged members of the public to report all cases of child abuse and avoid concealing offenders, saying justice can only be achieved when incidents are reported and acted upon. He added that the organization is partnering with various stakeholders to support and care for children who have experienced abuse while advocating for stronger protection measures across the community.