Naema Celestine 
Faith Nyongesa
During the launch of Children National Service Month at the Webuye Law Court, Daisy Wakoli, the Chairperson of the Bungoma Branch of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), and Viola Yator, the Resident Magistrate at the Webuye Court, addressed the alarming rise in child abuse cases in the region.
Both leaders pointed out that a significant number of the reported abuse cases involved close family members, emphasizing the urgent need for parents to remain vigilant and proactive in their children’s lives, particularly during the ongoing long holiday season.
In their speeches, the officials called attention to the fact that many of the reported incidents of abuse were perpetrated by those who should be the children’s protectors.
This troubling pattern underscored the necessity for parents and guardians to take a more active role in monitoring their children’s safety and emotional well-being. Given the extended break from school, they urged parents to be particularly mindful of potential risks.
Religious leaders, led by Bishop Kellam Nyongesa, also voiced their strong condemnation of child abuse during the event. The leaders expressed their deep concern over the disturbing trends of sexual abuse and child exploitation, including the use of children for forced labor.
The clergy took the opportunity to implore parents to take full responsibility for ensuring the safety and welfare of their children, underscoring that neglect and abuse could no longer be tolerated in the community.
Bishop Nyongesa and the other religious leaders also called for a united approach in addressing these issues, emphasizing the moral and social responsibility of all community members to protect the vulnerable. They encouraged parents to be more vigilant and to actively engage in their children’s lives to prevent further harm.
Magistrate Viola Yator used her platform to stress the importance of community involvement in protecting children’s rights.
She called on all members of the society, including parents, teachers, and local leaders, to unite in safeguarding the rights and well-being of children. She highlighted the critical role of communities in preventing abuse and supporting children who might already be at risk.
Furthermore, Magistrate Yator urged parents to take immediate action if they suspected any form of abuse or neglect. She appealed for a collective effort to ensure that every child has the opportunity to grow up in a safe and supportive environment. By working together, she believed that the issue of child abuse could be significantly reduced.
Dan Maelo, the Webuye Court Officer, also addressed the gathering, adding his voice to the call for respect for children’s rights. He specifically pointed out the harmful practice of involving children in hazardous work, such as hawking goods on the streets of Webuye Town.
Maelo urged parents to stop using their children for labor, reminding them that such exploitation not only violates children’s rights but also threatens their future development.
Maelo concluded by stressing the importance of prioritizing children’s well-being over economic gain. He emphasized that children should be allowed to enjoy their childhood, receive an education, and grow up in environments where they are.
