West pokot: Youths in West Pokot County have identified limited access to Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) information and inadequate funding for youth-focused programmes as critical obstacles in the war against teenage pregnancies, early and forced marriages, as well as female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
According to Kenya News Agency, the 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey reveals that West Pokot ranks second nationally with the highest rate of teenage pregnancies at 36% and an FGM prevalence of 44%. The youth have pointed out that the lack of SRH education has contributed to school dropouts, unsafe abortions, and poor health outcomes among adolescents.
The youths, who spoke during the Annual Adolescent and Youth Sexual Reproductive Health Symposium in Kapenguria town, called for increased investment in youth-friendly health services, training healthcare workers in adolescent care, and a dedicated budget for Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (ASRHP). Youth advocates emphasised the importance of empowering youth through empowerment centers, grassroots sensitisation, and including youth voices in decision-making processes.
County officials acknowledged the issues, noting that FGM is linked to early marriages and that teenage pregnancy rates have risen from 26% in 2014 to 36% in 2022, despite reductions in FGM cases. Marcelina Cherubia, a youth advocate and founder of VYBE (Voices of Youth for Better Engagement) Africa, stressed the importance of inclusion and engagement of youth in leadership and decision-making processes. She advocated for equipping youths and interacting with them.
Another youth advocate, Farex Nandwa from VYBE Africa, highlighted the need for establishing empowerment centers to keep youth engaged and steer them away from harmful practices. He noted that youths are actively involved in sensitising their peers against vices and encouraging participation in decision-making and public affairs. Nandwa added that they normally go to the grassroots to talk to youths in remote areas due to limited access to social media.
Winnie Cheptoo from the Sikom Peace Network for Development pointed out that the programme aims to improve youths' lives and reproductive health. She mentioned that many youths lack information and sometimes make uninformed decisions. She shared that while sensitisation was previously conducted virtually, they are now engaging directly in communities, including through radio talk shows.
Cheptoo called for increased funding for youth health programmes, noting that adolescents often do not make informed choices as leaders and elders decide for them. She explained their organisation's efforts include advocating for reproductive health, providing sexuality and family planning education, and involving adolescents via radio talk shows and online platforms for dialogue and advocacy. Cheptoo also noted economic hardships have long-term impacts, causing pregnant adolescents to face social stigma, drop out of school, and face reduced employment opportunities.
Joseph Tonyirwo, County Director of sports, youth affairs, and social services in West Pokot, stated that the County Government is engaging closely with youths by supporting sports initiatives and establishing empowerment centers in Chepareria and Makutano towns. He emphasised the government's focus on youth development and involvement.
Consolata Siree, the reproductive health officer in West Pokot County, called on stakeholders and media to work together in raising awareness about the impact of early pregnancies, especially in rural areas. She noted that premature pregnancies often result in severe psychological effects, leading many girls to drop out of school. Siree emphasised the need for youth to be educated on reproductive health and rights and urged communities to support youth access to health services as a collective responsibility.
Emmanuel Oigo, the County Gender Officer, linked FGM to early marriage and noted that teenage pregnancy rates increased from 26% in 2014 to 36% in 2022 despite a reduction in FGM cases. He also highlighted that many girls are still getting pregnant and dropping out of school despite FGM cases dropping from 72% to 44%.
Michael Odunga, from the State Department of Youth, highlighted ongoing efforts such as devolved youth funds, sports programmes, and the Nyota Programme, which offers grants and training for youth aged 18-29.