MARSABIT – Parents and guardians in Marsabit have been warned against keeping children out of school to herd livestock during the third term. Marsabit Central Children’s Officer Leaky Mukanzi revealed that the department has identified cases where parents are directly denying their children the right to education by forcing them into pastoral duties.
Speaking to journalists in his office, Mukanzi decried instances where children lag behind educationally despite schooling being fundamental to child development. He emphasized that every child has a right to education and warned that parents found blocking their children from attending school will face legal action under laws protecting child rights and welfare.
“Some parents force their children to herd livestock instead of taking them to school. This is against the law protecting the rights and welfare of the child. Every child has a right to education,” Mukanzi stated.
To enforce compliance, a special operation to trace children who have not reported back to school has commenced in the Segel area of Saku Constituency. Mukanzi noted that the crackdown will expand to other regions across Marsabit to ensure all children return to the classroom.
Additionally, the Children’s Officer raised concerns over child abuse, urging community members to report any violations to relevant authorities for prompt action. He highlighted that only a few child abuse cases were reported during the recent school holiday, calling the low numbers a major achievement in safeguarding children’s rights and safety in the county.
