This archive report was first published on 22 May 2020.
May 22, 2020 - Rift Valley Regional Coordinator George Natembeya has issued a stern warning to chiefs under his jurisdiction, stating that they will be held accountable for any teenage pregnancies in their areas.
According to Natembeya, any pregnancy occurring in a chief's area will be presumed to have been caused by the chief, who will be responsible for taking the girl to the hospital and providing for her until she gives birth.
“If a girl gets pregnant in your area today, I will know that the pregnancy is yours until the child is born. We will do a DNA test, but before that, you will take her to the clinic,” Natembeya said, sparking laughter from the congregation.
Noting that the Rift Valley region is home to diverse communities, Natembeya specifically cautioned the Kalenjin and Kuria communities against their mindset of marrying young girls.
He emphasized that the government will pursue those responsible, even during the pandemic period, and urged parents to ensure their children receive education to change societal norms.
