Bomet County steps up efforts to combat rising sexual violence

Authorities in Bomet County have launched a robust crackdown in response to a worrying rise in rape, defilement and other forms of gender‑based violence (GBV), county officials said. The directive — spearheaded by Dr. Ahmed Omar, the County Commissioner — orders National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs) and police to prioritise arresting suspects. The crackdown comes as reports show a spike in abuses, especially during long school holidays when many young people are home.
According to Dr. Omar, key hotspots include Bomet Central, Bomet East, Konoin, Chepalungu, and Sotik sub‑counties. Authorities have noted a troubling increase in gang rapes and incidents where perpetrators were under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The surge has also been accompanied by a rise in teenage pregnancies, forcing many girls out of school.
The crackdown is happening concurrently with the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign — a move the government says is intended to reinforce commitment to protecting girls and women.
Community and county gender officials have welcomed the initiative. Pauline Korir, the County Chief Officer on Gender, highlighted that up to three in five women in the region may experience some form of violence in their lifetime — and urged collective action to break the cycle.
Meanwhile, advocates for persons with disabilities underscored the heightened risks faced by PWDs, calling on guardians and neighbours alike to report abuse swiftly and treat all victims with dignity.
Looking ahead, Bomet leaders have pledged sustained enforcement and community sensitisation efforts. They say authorities will continue to monitor vulnerable areas, arrest offenders, and collaborate with civil society to educate families about the dangers and consequences of GBV. If sustained, these measures may help restore a sense of safety, encourage more victims to speak out, and ultimately reduce the incidence of sexual violence in the county.