MIGORI: Violence against women in Migori County remains alarmingly high despite the implementation of the Sexual Offences Act in 2006, which was designed to curb such crimes. The region has experienced significant levels of sexual abuse and wife battering between January 2022 and June 2024, highlighting the persistent challenges in addressing gender-based violence. According to Kenya News Agency, the local children's department reported 400 cases of sexual abuse between January 2022 and December 2023. However, the actual number might be higher, as police handled 700 cases of rape and other forms of sexual harassment during the same period. These included abusive language and gestures, unwanted sexual advances, and character assassination. Local hospitals and community organizations estimate at least 1,000 cases of rape and defilement, marking an increase of about 400 cases compared to previous years. Alarmingly, many of these crimes were committed by acquaintances of the victims, leading to a culture of sil ence among the survivors due to fears of humiliation and shame. Sammy Korir, the County children Services Coordinator, emphasized that many victims suffer in silence, especially when they share their environment with their attackers. Psychiatric expert Mrs. Mogesi Ghati, based in Kegonga town, highlighted the severe consequences of sexual violence, which include trauma, depression, and physical health issues such as unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases. The psychological impact includes fear, anxiety, and depression, which can lead to social isolation and poor performance at work or school. The impact on education is particularly concerning, with the children's department reporting that approximately 200 girls dropped out of school due to unwanted pregnancies and other violence-related issues between 2022 and June 2024. Early marriages, female circumcision, and child labor practices contribute to this dropout rate. Several organizations, including Maendeleo ya Wanawake, ActionAid, Germany Technical Agency (GTZ), and Adventist Development Relief Agency (ADRA), have been active in attempting to combat these issues with limited success. These groups have advocated for alternative rites of passage to replace female genital mutilation and have worked to raise awareness about the harmful effects of forced early marriages. Education officials and advocates argue that the strict implementation of the Sexual Offences Act by law enforcement agencies is crucial in mitigating violence against women in the region. The persistence of these crimes underscores the need for concerted efforts to protect and empower women and girls in Migori County.