Teen marriages and Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) remain a major challenge among pastoral communities in the North Rift region.

This has raised concerns over the implementation of existing laws and the government’s commitment to end the harmful practices.

Girls’ rights crusader Nancy Kiptoo identified Tiaty, Bartabwa, Kalabata, Barwesa, Mogotio, Baringo South and the lower Kerio Belt as the areas recording the highest number of such cases.

“These practices are still very common in these areas, despite the existence of laws meant to protect girls,” Kiptoo said while addressing the press.

She described teen marriages and FGM as outdated and deeply rooted cultural practices, noting that in some instances, men within the communities actively encourage them.

“These are retrogressive practices that continue to thrive because they are deeply entrenched in culture, and sadly, some men are still promoting them,” she stated.

Kiptoo challenged community leaders to take the lead in fighting the vices, adding that although the government has intensified efforts to curb the practices, more needs to be done at the grassroots level.

“Community leaders must be at the forefront in addressing these issues. Government efforts alone are not enough without local leadership involvement,” she said.

According to Kiptoo, girls as young as 13 years are married off immediately after undergoing FGM, a situation she termed alarming.

“We have cases where girls as young as 13 are subjected to FGM and then forced into marriage. This denies them their childhood, education and future,” she noted.

She further called for increased awareness and education among girls from the affected communities, saying empowerment through education would play a key role in ending the practices.

Religious leaders also joined in condemning the vices, with Bishop William Kitilit urging communities to uphold and respect the rights of girls.

“These practices violate the rights and dignity of girls. Communities must fully respect and protect them,” Bishop Kitilit said.

The leaders called for stronger collaboration between the government, community elders, religious institutions and civil society organizations to eradicate teen marriages and FGM in the region.