An international non-governmental organisation is seeking ways to bring to an end sexual violence against children in Trans Nzoia by bringing on board all stakeholders.
Through a programme dubbed “Ubuntu care”, Humanity and Inclusion organisation rolled out a sensitisation programme in Kiminini Sub County on Tuesday that will see children educated on their rights.
This follows an increase of sexual related cases in Trans Nzoia with many cases lapsing unprosecuted in a court of law after parties resolve the matter at family level, a fact that has escalated the vice in the region.
According to an official of the organization, Godfrey Kibet, children, families, organizations, and local authorities will be brought on board and educated on best ways to curb the vice.
“We are going to set up a social and legal system of protection that will assist in keeping at bay the vice,” said Kibet, the organisation’s child protection officer.
According to Kibet, the programme will also target children with disabilities and will seek to empower them with knowledge and skills on measures they will take in case of sexual violence.
“The programme will also focus on procedures to be taken in case a child is defiled including immediate health therapy and legal measures that should be taken by those close to victim.
The Kiminini Assistant County Commissioner, Gladys Nyongesa asked residents to embrace following the due process of law in case of sexual violence as opposed to local arbitration.
“We are against the habit of parents, local administration and community leaders converging to seek compensation in sexual offence cases,” she said.
One of the participants cited lack of sign language interpreters in such cases as a hindrance to justice.
“We call upon on the government to hire sign language interpreters to be stationed at the locational level that will help them easily access information,” said Ogola who spoke through a sign interpreter.
The “Ubuntu Care” programme is operational in Kenya, Burundi and Rwanda to promote the fight against sexual violence against children, notably those with disabilities through sensitisation.
By Pauline Ikanda
