By Odoch Ben Sylvester
Paramount Chief of Magwi County is calling on parents to report any cases of teenage pregnancy to the relevant authorities instead of concealing them.
This appeal comes in response to the realization by the chief’s office that several incidents of teenage pregnancy remain unreported, leading to an increase in such cases.
Speaking to No. 1 Citizen Daily Newspaper, Mr. Ojara Aldo Aquilino, expressed concern over the number of unreported teenage pregnancies in the previous year.
He emphasized that cases related to child marriage should not be covered up but should be reported to the appropriate authorities for legal action to be taken.
Aldo explicitly prohibited parents from handling child marriage cases within the confines of the family, urging them instead to report such cases to the authorities in charge.
The chief revealed that three cases of teenage pregnancy were reported last year, resulting in sentences being handed down in Torit.
Aldo stated, “There are two main issues that are not good for the community. One is the issue of teenage pregnancy. When a young girl gets pregnant, the parents often try to resolve the matter at home, which is completely unacceptable.”
He emphasized that there are no laws that permit underage girls to become pregnant, and anyone found pregnant will face trial in the high court.
The chief encouraged young girls to prioritize education in order to achieve their dreams and cautioned them against engaging in any form of sexual activity.
He discouraged parents from handling child marriage cases within the home, emphasizing that it goes against the rights of the child.
Aldo appealed to parents to take proper care of girls in the community.
He concluded by urging young girls to prioritize education above all else, as it paves the way for a brighter future.
The chief reminded them that there are numerous opportunities available from the government, NGOs, and other sources, and encouraged them to seize those opportunities.