Baragoi: Residents of Logetei village in Baragoi, Samburu North Sub-County, have been cautioned against subjecting their daughters to child marriages as part of efforts to end all forms of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Samburu County. The warning was issued during the launch of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence held in the region, under the theme: End Digital Violence Against all Women and Girls.

According to Kenya News Agency, Nachola Division Assistant County Commissioner (ACC) Charles Musoi highlighted that child marriage remains common among the Turkana community living in Samburu North, resulting in low school enrollment and retention rates. He emphasized that many girls are not enrolled in school but are instead assigned grazing duties until a suitable suitor pays the dowry price. Musoi urged the community to prioritize education over livestock, as it is a constitutional right for every child, and to abandon practices that hinder progress in pastoralist communities.

The ACC also praised the community for achieving zero Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) rates despite being in the heart of Samburu County. Musoi urged community members to become ambassadors against GBV, emphasizing the importance of avoiding domestic violence and promoting mutual respect in marriages.

Martin Mwongera from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) warned that the law is strict on child marriage, with severe consequences for those involved in or facilitating such practices.

Timothy Ekai, a resident, expressed gratitude for the event's focus on children's rights, which helps educate parents and prevent legal confrontations. He noted that the entrenched culture of child marriage requires ongoing dialogue for eradication, with poverty and drought-related economic hardships being key factors. Ekai explained that men often marry off their daughters to restock livestock after harsh droughts, leading to a lack of school enrollment for these children.

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is a global campaign running from November 25 to December 10, encouraging individuals, communities, and institutions to unite in efforts to end violence against women and girls.