Concerns grow as idle children roam Kabirirsus Trading Center in Keiyo South

Kapsowar,

Tuesday, October 3, 2023

KNA by Rennish Okong’o

Leaders in Kabirirsus Trading Center, located in Keiyo South, Elgeyo Marakwet County, are increasingly alarmed by the growing number of idle children who have dropped out of school.

This disturbing trend has not only raised concern about rising crime rates but has also resulted in tragic incidents where children have faced violence from angry mobs.

Kabirirsus Location Chief, Samwel Megek, expressed his apprehension about the dire consequences of this issue.

He recounted a harrowing incident involving a minor who had earned the nickname "Mungiki." This young boy narrowly escaped death when he was apprehended by the public for stealing potatoes

"The minor was forced to eat raw potatoes before being dragged along dusty roads and brutally beaten," Chief Megek revealed.

Fortunately, the timely intervention of local chiefs prevented a tragic outcome, as they rescued the boy and handed him over to the police. 

Chief Megek firmly placed responsibility on parents for being neglectful of their children. Some parents, he asserted, have pushed their offspring into providing for the family and encouraged them to move to the trading center in pursuit of income.

In response to this grave issue, Chief Megek announced that local chiefs have initiated a comprehensive sweep of the trading center and neighboring areas to identify and address the plight of idle children. Their ultimate goal is to reintegrate these children back into the educational system.

To facilitate this effort, Chief Megek urged head teachers to provide a list of children who have dropped out of school, enabling a more effective tracing process.

Joseph Kitum, the Head Teacher of Kabirirsus Primary School, emphasized the gravity of the situation.

"I have witnessed many children dropping out of school. Most of them can be found in small hotels, engaged in recreational activities like playing pool, or falling prey to online sports gambling," he lamented.

Kitum issued a stern warning to businesses employing children, highlighting the long-term consequences of an illiterate society.

The community of Kabirirsus Trading Center is now united in its determination to combat this alarming issue.

With the proactive involvement of local authorities, schools, and parents, there is hope that these idle children will be rescued from the perils they face on the streets and given an opportunity to regain their education and future prospects.

Courtesy; KNA