Parents in Marakwet West Sub County have been encouraged to be vigilant and report individuals who seek to harm their children by luring them into inappropriate activities.
Marakwet West Deputy County Commissioner John Chirchir, speaking during Mashujaa Day celebrations at Kapkoross Primary School, emphasized the critical role parents play in safeguarding the well-being of their children.
Chirchir expressed his concern that child predators could go unnoticed and unreported, potentially harming the community’s youngest members.
“If parents do not report these cases, assuming it does not affect them, they might be the next victims after their own children are preyed upon and corrupted,” he asserted.
Parents were also urged to report any instances where they suspected that their children were being enticed or manipulated into participating in activities that were not suitable for their age, with a view to creating a safer environment for all children in the community.
The Deputy County Commissioner further issued a stern warning to adult men who might pose a threat to children, stressing that grown men should steer clear of inappropriate interactions with small children.
He urged residents to comply with all laws on children, in order to safeguard the innocence and well-being of the community’s youth.
In other matters, the Deputy County Commissioner urged residents to exercise caution during the upcoming El Niño rainy season.
He warned that the rainy period typically brought thunder and lightning and advised people to stay indoors during storms.
Parents were also encouraged to accompany young children and assist them cross rivers on their way to school, aimed at ensuring their safety during the challenging weather.
On FGM, Chirchir issued a stern warning to those who may be considering performing the act on innocent girls during the forthcoming holiday period that they will face the full force of the law.
The Cheptongei Forest Station Manager, Laban Gitiba, on his part emphasized the significance of conserving the environment for the benefit of the entire community.
He urged residents to actively participate in environmental preservation efforts, stating that a healthy environment was essential for a good life.
“We should not only plant trees but also nurture them,” Gitiba remarked.
He added that individuals should consider their specific needs when planting trees.
For example, if they require firewood, they should plant trees that could serve that purpose effectively.
This approach aligns with sustainable environmental practices that help meet the community’s needs, while safeguarding the natural world.
