Cases of rape, defilement, and gender-based violence (GBV) are surging in Bomet County, prompting security agencies to initiate a targeted crackdown.
County Commissioner Dr. Ahmed Omar announced that National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) and police officers have been directed to prioritise the arrest of suspects.
“Recently, we have observed a worrying increase in sexual exploitation of girls, rape, and GBV. We are intensifying crackdowns, particularly during the long school holidays,” Dr. Omar said.
The crackdown coincides with the ongoing 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign that aims to revitalise commitments, demand accountability, and call for decisive action from leaders.
Speaking after chairing a County Security meeting alongside Imbwaga, Dr. Omar expressed concern over parental negligence, which he said contributes to the exploitation of children.
He cited instances where children are sent to local shopping centres by their parents, only to fall prey to boda-boda riders and other perpetrators.
“GBV cases are notably high in Bomet Central, Bomet East, Konoin, Chepalungu, and Sotik sub-counties, leading to a rise in teenage pregnancies. As a government, we cannot allow this trend to persist,” he stated.
Flanked by Bomet County Police Commander Edward Imbwaga, among others, Dr. Omar also cited a disturbing increase in gang rapes and cases involving suspects under the influence of drugs or alcohol, which have become a significant concern for authorities and the community alike.
Teenage pregnancies resulting from such violence have led to high dropout rates among girls. While some have managed to re-enrol in schools, the impact on their education remains profound.
Gender-based violence is a deeply entrenched societal issue, with many cases going unreported. Victims often remain silent, enduring the trauma to preserve family unity, which in extreme cases has led to severe injuries or fatalities.
Chief Officer for Gender in Bomet County Ms. Pauline Korir emphasised the prevalence of GBV during the 16 Days of Activism. “Three out of every five women in this region experience some form of violence in their lifetime,” she revealed.
Korir reaffirmed the County government’s dedication to partnering with stakeholders to educate the public on women’s and girls’ rights.
“We must break the cycle of violence by empowering women and fostering a culture of gender equality,” she said.
Bomet County Disability Services Officer Consolata Wafula regretted the heightened vulnerability of persons with disabilities to GBV.
She urged the community to treat Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) with dignity and called on guardians to report any abuse or defilement to authorities.
“Silence enables abuse. Protecting PWDs and ensuring they get justice should be a collective community effort,” Wafula asserted.
Efforts to curb GBV in Bomet County continue, with authorities emphasising community awareness, stricter enforcement of laws, and proactive measures to protect vulnerable groups.
By Lamech Willy.A
