Health officials in Meru County’s Igembe region have raised alarm over an alarming rise in teenage pregnancies, making it one of the areas with the highest reported cases in the county.
According to Dr. Githu Wachira, Medical Officer of Health at Nyambene Level 4 Hospital, 17 girls currently sitting for their KPSEA exams are also new mothers receiving care at the facility. In response, the hospital has launched a Support Group Programme for Teenage Mothers, aimed at helping the young girls rebuild their lives, access guidance, and continue their education.
“The programme focuses on offering hope, parenting skills, and mentorship so that these girls can continue with school while caring for their babies,” said Dr. Wachira.
He appealed to parents, teachers, religious institutions, and community leaders to work together to curb early pregnancies and protect the girl child from exploitation.
“Having a baby at a young age is not the end of life. You can still rise, continue with school, and secure a bright future,” he encouraged the teenage mothers.
Poverty and Lack of Awareness Fueling the Crisis
Health experts have attributed the rising cases to poverty, limited reproductive health education, and societal pressures, urging the community to intensify awareness and support initiatives. Officials are calling for stronger mentorship and parental involvement to prevent further dropouts among schoolgirls.
Similar Incidents in Kakamega
A similar situation has been reported in Khwisero, Kakamega County, where 31 girls were confirmed pregnant while taking national exams. Sub-County Commissioner Janet Khatambi said authorities had arranged emergency transport for any candidate who might go into labour during the exam period and had begun investigations to hold perpetrators accountable.
Khwisero MP Christopher Aseka condemned the rising cases, urging law enforcement and community leaders to take decisive action.
“Men preying on schoolgirls and defiling minors cannot be tolerated. Our security apparatus must act decisively to protect our daughters and ensure they continue their education,” Aseka said.
A Call for Collective Action
Health officials warn that unless community-wide interventions are implemented, the trend could worsen, robbing many young girls of their futures. Stakeholders are now emphasizing education, mentorship, and access to reproductive health services as key strategies to reverse the crisis.
