Vihiga County leaders have warned perpetrators of child defilement of severe legal consequences, calling on adults to respect children and help curb the rising cases of sexual abuse in the region.

Speaking during Mashujaa Day celebrations held at Masana Friends Secondary School in Vihiga sub County, Governor Dr. Wilber Ottichilo said the county government would collaborate with the relevant authorities to ensure perpetrators of the vice are brought to book.

“The county government, the national government through the County Commissioner’s Office and the Judiciary will work together to ensure this heinous behaviour stops,” he said.

The governor added that the county has planned to conduct public awareness campaigns in all its wards to educate residents on the appropriate steps to take, when cases of defilement occur, with a view to ensuring timely reporting and prosecution of offenders.

The County Criminal Investigations Officer Gilbert Gitali condemned the vice, assuring residents that those involved in child sexual abuse would be held accountable.

He cited a case in which a county government employee had reportedly been sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for defilement, warning that no one would be shielded from the law.

The County Executive for Youth, Gender Culture and Sports Dr. Ruth Agesa also issued a stern warning to perpetrators of sexual violence against children, urging residents to respect and protect minors..

Dr Agesa cited the case of a young boy, currently receiving care at the Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Centre in Sabatia after allegedly being sexually assaulted by four men, noting that the incident had left the child traumatized.

She warned that the county would no longer tolerate incidents of sexual abuse and called on residents to report any suspected cases of the vice to the relevant authorities.

The County Director of Education (CDE) Joyce Chesang, on her part assured parents that learners had been adequately prepared for their examinations, saying teachers had covered the required syllabus and were confident that their candidates would perform well.

With schools closing for the holidays, Chesang urged parents and guardians to take greater responsibility for their children by monitoring their movements, while instilling discipline and positive values.

“You have the cardinal responsibility to monitor your children, knowing where they are at all times to ensure their safety,” she reiterated.

The CDE encouraged families to involve children in church activities and other constructive programmes, while nurturing their talents and abilities.

Chesang further urged parents to remain vigilant against social challenges affecting young people, including drug abuse and other harmful behaviours by strengthening guidance and supervision at home.

The County Commissioner Jeremiah Gicheru read President William Ruto’s Mashujaa Day speech, which highlighted the importance of honouring national heroes and building on their sacrifices to advance Kenya’s development.

By Rose Wasike