Kenya: Communities and Schools Unite to Prevent Child Marriage in Kisii County

On 15 January 2026, a community training and school engagement were held in Getengereiriri Community and at Bong’onta Primary and Junior School in Nyaribari Masaba, Kisii County, as part of the 100 Days of Action to End Child Marriage. The activities brought together parents, children, community leaders, teachers, and students to strengthen awareness, shared responsibility, and practical action to prevent child marriage.

The community session took place in the church compound in Getengereiriri and engaged parents, guardians, local elders, and children in an open and participatory discussion. The training focused on building a shared understanding of child marriage, clarifying that any marriage or union involving a child under 18 is illegal, regardless of parental consent, cultural practice, or religious ceremony. Participants explored how child marriage harms children’s education, health, and rights, with particular emphasis on the disproportionate impact on girls.

Discussions examined the root causes of child marriage in the community, including poverty and economic pressure, harmful cultural norms, gender inequality, barriers to education, teenage pregnancy, and the growing risks linked to technology and social media. Parents reflected on their role in protecting children and pledged to prioritise both formal and informal education, recognising education as one of the strongest protections against early and forced marriage.

The school engagement at Bong’onta Primary and Junior School reached a large number of primary and secondary students, alongside teachers and school administrators. Sessions focused on prevention, helping students understand their rights, recognise risks, and speak up when they or their peers are in danger. As part of the activity, sanitary pads were distributed to vulnerable girls to support their continued attendance at school. The school administration publicly committed to the message “Child Marriage Free School”, reinforcing education as a safe space for children to grow and thrive.

Across both engagements, participants discussed the legal framework in Kenya, including the Constitution, the Children Act, and the Marriage Act, and learned about referral pathways and response mechanisms. Community members identified early warning signs of children at risk and explored how families, schools, faith institutions, health services, and local authorities can work together to prevent harm and respond quickly when concerns arise.

The sessions concluded with clear messages of collective responsibility and hope. Community members affirmed that child marriage is not a private family matter but a shared concern that requires vigilance, coordination, and care. Children voiced their commitment to staying in school, and adults pledged to protect and support them.

Through community dialogue, school based action, and shared pledges, the Getengereiriri and Bong’onta engagements marked a meaningful step towards building a child marriage free future in Kisii County, where every child is protected, educated, and supported to reach their full potential.