Women Senators Seek Probe As 36 Students Become Pregnant In Kenya

The Kenya Women Senators Association (KEWOSA) has called for a probe into the reported case of 36 students getting pregnant at Bakisa Secondary School in Webuye. 

According to local media, Citizen Digital, the lawmakers, led by Nominated Senator Catherine Muma, spoke at the Malindi Women’s Prison in Kilifi County, on Sunday, where they called for speedy investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify those responsible.

Muma said, “We make it seem like it is okay for children to be pregnant. As KEWOSA we detest this and we are willing to work with the Minister for Interior to make sure that the investigations move.”

“We would want to see those perpetrators arrested,” added Nominated Senator Tabitha Mutinda.

They demanded swift action from all involved players including the Ministry of Education, National Police, and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to apprehend the suspects.

The Senators were speaking during their first day of the Senate Mashinani tour, where they expressed concern over the impact of the incident on the girls, noting that 13 have already given birth, 13 are expectant, while 10 have dropped out of school after becoming pregnant.

They have also called for reforms at the Malindi Women’s Prison rehabilitation centre, stressing the need to equip inmates with skills and support that will enable them to reintegrate into society after their release successfully.

Meanwhile, Police in Bungoma have launched investigations and a manhunt for suspects amid rising concerns among the school community.

Webuye East Assistant County Commissioner, Emmanuel Kenga has vowed to track down and take action against perpetrators preying on minors, in a bid to deter further offences.

“I have a list of the cases and we will deal with those responsible…” said Commissioner Kenga.

The institution’s management says it has disrupted the education and well-being of affected minors.