Meru County Records Highest Teenage Pregnancy Rate in Kenya

Meru County Records Highest Teenage Pregnancy Rate in Kenya

Meru County has emerged as the region with the highest teenage pregnancy rate in Kenya, prompting concern among education stakeholders. Data from the Kenya Health Information System, under the Ministry of Health, shows that the county has a teen pregnancy prevalence rate of 28 per cent. This figure surpasses the national average, which stands at 17 per cent.

The alarming rise in teen pregnancies has contributed to a notable increase in school dropouts, particularly in Buuri and Igembe. In addition, health risks among young girls have escalated in areas such as Imenti North, Central, and South, deepening the urgency for comprehensive interventions.

In reaction to the escalating problem, Meru recently hosted a stakeholders’ forum aimed at forging a collaborative response. The meeting included religious leaders—among them clergy, Muslim imams, and community elders—as well as government representatives and NGOs focused on social welfare. The participants were united in their aim to develop a collective strategy to address the disturbing trend.

Bishop Silas Mugo of the National African Independent Church of East Africa (NICA), Meru branch, emphasized that coordinated efforts among religious, traditional, and political leaders were essential to effectively address the issue. He pointed out that safeguarding the future of children requires unity across all sectors.

Similarly, Imam Abdikadir Ousam of Meru Prison highlighted the importance of comprehensive sex education and urged for open dialogue about teenage sexuality. He noted that honest discussions on the topic are not optional but rather a vital need in tackling early pregnancies.

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Participants at the forum stressed that parents also have a critical role to play in preventing teenage pregnancies. Families were urged to become more involved in guiding and supporting adolescents through the challenges of youth.

As the crisis deepens, stakeholders are urging for long-term, community-led approaches that protect girls and keep them in school. The collective message was clear: urgent and sustained action is necessary to address the rising rates and secure the future of Meru’s youth.

Meru County Records Highest Teenage Pregnancy Rate in Kenya.

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