Leaders call for stronger child protection during long holiday

Political and national government administration officers in Murang’a have urged communities to tackle social evils and ensure children are protected.

This comes as the long school break enters week two, with more than 8 weeks until the opening of the school’s calendar year, January 2027.

Speaking in Mugoiri Ward, Kiharu constituency, during a National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF) event, the leaders noted that protecting the children was paramount to the development and growth of a society.

They warned that social evils are detrimental to the well-being of children and must be dealt with so as to protect their future.

“Some of the social evils affecting us include the uncontrolled and unregulated sale of alcohol across the villages, even as we lobby the county govt to revoke some of these licences, we must do our best to protect the children and their tomorrow,” said Betty Maina, the county woman representative.

She called on parents and guardians to heighten vigilance and parental supervision.

Maina noted that the long holiday comes with its own challenges, and parents need to strike a balance between employment and vigilance.

“Even as you carry out your livelihood-earning activities, remember to keep an eye on the children,” she appealed.

She warned perpetrators of sexual violence against minors, noting that such offences not only destroy the children’s lives physically but also have far-reaching psychological effects.

The woman representative also pointed out a growing trend where communities stigmatise parents of teen mothers.

She called on the parents to seek help and demystify the stigma associated with teen pregnancy.

“If your school-going girl gets pregnant, do not hide her or withdraw from your usual activities because of the stigma associated with it. Come out, seek help if need be, and allow the girl a peaceful environment and encourage her to continue with her studies,” Maina advised.

Echoing similar sentiments, the chief, Mugoiri location Mathew Miako, observed that the fight against alcohol, drug and substance abuse would go on to create a safe environment for all, especially the children who are the future.

He also urged parents and guardians to ensure they know the activities the children are engaging in during this school holiday.

“Know where your child is, who they are with, and what activities they are doing because there are many social evils surrounding us,” he cautioned.

“If you find a child unattended or witness something suspicious affecting a child, take initiative and report to us, and we will take the necessary actions,” observes Miako.

Children’s officer Evelyn Miringu warns that the long school holiday poses a challenge to leaners in the absence of structured school protection.

She urges parents, village elders, religious leaders and the community to remain vigilant.

“Without the structured protection of schools, cases of neglect, sexual abuse, defilement, substance abuse, teenage pregnancies and children engaging in risky behaviour tend to rise,” she noted.

“Monitor their movements closely, phone use and the company they keep while also ensuring they engage in constructive activities,” she advised.

By Florence Kinyua