KENYA: Women Governors Condemn Child Sexual Exploitation In Maai Mahiu

By Lisbeth Micheni, Kenya 

A coalition of female county leaders in Kenya has strongly condemned the reported sexual abuse and trafficking of minors in Maai Mahiu, describing it as a cruel and unacceptable violation of children’s rights.

The G7 Women Governors’ Caucus, led by Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru, issued a joint statement expressing outrage after a recent investigative documentary, “Madams: Exposing Kenya’s Child Sex Trade,” unveiled disturbing accounts of young girls some as young as 12 being coerced into the sex trade under the control of so-called “madams.”

The governors said the revelations point to a serious breakdown in societal and institutional safeguards meant to protect vulnerable children.

They urged the Ministry of Interior, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, and the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection to conduct thorough investigations and prosecute all involved whether traffickers, enablers, or clients.

They further insisted that law enforcement officers found to have neglected their duties or engaged in corruption to shield the perpetrators must face justice.

The leaders called for a coordinated rescue and rehabilitation programme for affected children, emphasising the importance of medical care, education, and psychological support.

They also pledged to work with civil society, religious groups, community leaders, and international partners to strengthen child protection structures and address root causes such as poverty, lack of schooling, and weak law enforcement.

Waiguru, in a separate statement, described the situation as “heartbreaking and intolerable,” insisting that no child should ever be for sale or live in fear of exploitation.

The National Police Service has confirmed it has commenced investigations following the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) Africa Eye exposé, which documented the

abuse in Maai Mahiu.