Leaders in Vihiga County have sounded the alarm over the growing number of gender-based violence and rape cases, particularly targeting elderly women. During a recent address in the county, local leaders expressed deep concern about the disturbing trend of sexual assaults, murders, and molestation involving both elderly women and children.
The county’s women leaders have condemned the escalating incidents, describing them as a moral crisis that requires urgent community intervention. They called upon the youth, many of whom are reportedly behind the attacks, to refrain from such acts and embrace discipline and responsibility. It was highlighted that the perpetrators often come from within the same communities, making the crimes even more alarming.
One of the most shocking recent incidents involved an 80-year-old woman who was raped and killed by unknown assailants in Luanda. The incident has reignited calls for stronger community vigilance and tougher action against sexual offenders. Leaders also noted that children in the county are increasingly becoming victims of sexual abuse, in some cases by close relatives, indicating a worrying rise in incest and sodomy cases.
Vihiga Governor Wilber Ottichilo attributed the growing cases of sexual and gender-based violence to widespread drug and substance abuse among the youth. He said many of the offenders act under the influence of illicit brews and drugs such as bhang. The governor pledged that the county government would work with law enforcement agencies to curb drug abuse and ensure the safety of women and children.
The situation in Vihiga reflects a broader national concern over rising gender-based violence across various regions. Security officials have linked the trend to underlying social and economic factors, including unemployment, family conflicts, and land disputes. In Vihiga, land scarcity and poverty have been identified as key contributors to domestic tensions, sometimes escalating into violent confrontations.
Leaders are urging families, churches, and community organizations to play a greater role in restoring moral values and fostering dialogue to prevent further deterioration of the social fabric. They emphasized that addressing gender-based violence requires a collective approach involving law enforcement, the judiciary, religious leaders, and residents.
The growing number of rape and defilement cases in Vihiga County has now become a pressing concern that calls for both preventive and punitive measures to safeguard vulnerable members of the community and restore peace within families.
