KERICHO: Cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) have sharply increased in Kericho County, with over 963 incidents reported across all six sub-counties this year, prompting area leaders to advocate for an end to the issue that has left many residents, especially women, in despair. According to Kenya News Agency, Kericho Woman Representative Beatrice Kemei highlighted during the preparations for the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence that most GBV survivors in the county are aged between 18 and 49. She further revealed that 325 individuals, aged 10 to 17, had experienced GBV, calling for justice and protection for these vulnerable groups, particularly young girls. The County MP, representing Soin-Sigowet Sub-County, expressed concern over the high number of cases in her area, with 303 incidents reported, followed by Kericho East Sub-County with 279 cases. Kemei emphasized the need to halt violations of women's rights, noting additional reports of 174 cases in Bureti, 19 in Belgut, 17 in Kipkelio n West, and 39 in Kipkelion East. Kemei also stressed the challenges faced by people with disabilities, revealing 32 reported cases of exploitation and harassment this year, underscoring the necessity for their protection. During an event at a Kericho hotel, Kemei shared alarming figures on rising teenage pregnancies, with 5,448 cases reported. Participants were shocked to learn that 221 cases involved girls aged 10 to 14, severely impacting their educational prospects. Kemei recounted assisting an 11-year-old mother of twins and a 14-year-old mother, highlighting the gravity of the situation. The 'Second Chance' initiative, led by Kemei, aims to support GBV victims, particularly women. She identified Bureti Sub-County as leading in teenage pregnancies with 1,776 cases, followed by Kipkelion East with 861, Kipkelion West with 825, Soin Sigowet with 727, Ainamoi with 721, and Belgut with 538 cases. Athletics Kenya President Lt Gen (Rtd) Jackson Tuwei also attended the event, expressing concern over GBV is sues faced by athletes. He assured that measures are being implemented to protect athletes from GBV and related vices, with plans to empower officials from each region with safeguarding skills. Kericho-based athletes and other participants organized peaceful demonstrations in Kericho Town, demanding an end to GBV, before attending the sensitization forum. Other notable guests included National Government Affirmative Action Fund CEO Roy Sasaka and Rachel Kamweru from the State Department of Sports.