Empower Pastoralist Organization of Kenya held a sensitization workshop for 35 teenage mothers in Maralal town, Samburu County. The event focused on understanding the root cause and challenges of teen pregnancies in the county. Further, teenagers were sensitized on sexual and reproductive health rights, GBV, referral pathways, and available opportunities for young mothers.
According to statistics obtained from Samburu County, Health Department shows that 832 teenagers became pregnant between January and March 2022 and the health officials fear that the number is will spike by end of this if nothing is done by both national, and county governments and other stakeholders.
Teen mothers cited FGM and child marriage as the main causes of teenage pregnancy in the county saying in most cases, they are usually married off after the act. Further, they mentioned a lack of funds to start a business.
Samburu County Assistant County Commissioner, Mr. George Murage said high poverty levels, SGBV and retrogressive cultural practices in the county contributed to the rise of teen pregnancy.
“Teen mothers are a vulnerable group who should be made aware of the existing government opportunities and support and shall be given priority to teen mothers during the distribution of relief food and funds, “said Mr. Murage.
Mr. David Wambua, Samburu County Police Commander urged the young mothers to report cases of GBV to the special unit at the police station where young girls and women can report GBV cases.
He noted that if reports on cases of GBV can be done promptly by the community including young mothers then the county will be free from GBV and enhance opportunities for women.
The girls promised to report SGBV cases using the HAK 1195 hotline.
By Getrude Angela
