Official blames alcoholism for high sexual abuse cases in Taita Taveta

The government has called for joint effort to address rising sexual abuse cases in Taita Taveta County.

The area has seen a rise in defilement, rape and gender-based violence cases, with an average of 20 incidents being reported every month across the county.

Taita County Commissioner Rhoda Onyancha urged leaders and stakeholders to prioritise the issue and end violence against women and girls.

She noted that Taita Taveta has been recording at least six cases of rape and defilement a week, making it a hot spot in the coastal region. 

Guarantee punishment

“Cases of women being sexually assaulted and girls being defiled have increased drastically. We need to join hands with the national government to end this vice," she said. 

Ms Onyancha asked leaders in the area to ensure victims get support and justice, and guarantee punishment for the perpetrators.

She noted the need for concerted efforts from stakeholders, including the police, Judiciary, political leaders and community leaders to bring the culprits to book.

"We all have to do much more to respond to the cries for justice of women and children who have suffered due to rape and defilement," she said. 

Ms Onyancha who is also the county security committee chairperson, said chiefs have been ordered to ensure no perpetrators goes off the hook.

Gender norms

She said the stakeholders should embark on a massive campaign to sensitise residents, especially men, to shift from harmful gender norms.

"Stakeholders must dialogue to educate members of the public on the need for respecting the rights of women and girls. We cannot let this vice to continue," she said. 

She noted rampant alcoholism was to blame for the high number of sexual abuse cases and ordered the police to deal with illicit brew in the county.

"The public must be vigilant and report any culprits suspected of luring minors into sex. All incidents should be reported to chiefs for action to be taken," she said.