The Kenya Women Senators Association has demanded an investigation and the arrest of those responsible for pregnancies involving 36 students of Bakisa Secondary School in Webuye, Bungoma County.

The senators said the cases raised serious concerns about the protection of schoolchildren and should not be treated merely as ordinary teenage pregnancies, particularly where minors may have been subjected to sexual exploitation.

Led by Nominated Senator Catherine Muma, the lawmakers made the demand during a visit to Malindi Women’s Prison in Kilifi County as part of their Senate Mashinani tour.

Muma called for swift investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding each pregnancy and identify those responsible.

“We make it seem like it is okay for children to be pregnant. As KEWOSA, we detest this and we are willing to work with the Minister for Interior to make sure that the investigations move,” she said.

Nominated Senator Tabitha Mutinda also called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of anyone found responsible.

“We would want to see those perpetrators arrested,” she said.

The senators urged Kenya’s Ministry of Education, National Police Service and Directorate of Criminal Investigations to coordinate their efforts and ensure the cases were thoroughly investigated.

School Principal Ruth Malika disclosed that 10 students were currently pregnant, 13 had given birth, while another 13 had dropped out of school after becoming pregnant.

Malika said the situation had disrupted the education and wellbeing of the affected students. She called for the establishment of boarding facilities at the school, arguing that accommodating the students on campus could reduce the risks associated with their daily journeys between school and home.

Police in Bungoma County have commenced investigations and launched a manhunt for suspects allegedly connected with the pregnancies.

Webuye East Assistant County Commissioner Emmanuel Kenga said the authorities possessed a list of the cases and would pursue those suspected of preying on the students.

“I have a list of the cases and we will deal with those responsible,” Kenga said.

The senators maintained that the affected students should receive appropriate support to continue their education, while those found to have committed sexual offences against minors should be brought to justice.

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