Tension continues to mount in Nyakach Constituency following a disturbing rise in child abuse cases, particularly targeting young girls. One heartbreaking case has drawn the attention of local leaders and human rights advocates, as a family seeks custody of a 13-year-old girl who has endured years of mistreatment since the passing of her biological mother.

The girl, whom we’ll refer to as Nelvine (not her real name), has bravely shared the suffering she has silently borne at the hands of individuals she once trusted. Her story,marked by neglect, physical harm, and emotional trauma, paints a grim picture of the unsafe environment she has been forced to endure.

This harrowing situation has sparked public outrage, especially after nominated Senator Catherine Muma visited the region two weeks ago to tailk about GBV. In a passionate address, she called on both national and local authorities to act swiftly and decisively.

Nelvine’s maternal grandmother, Rael Sitiena, together with a concerned relative, Lorna Chelang’at, is now appealing t for legal guardianship. They believe removing the child from the care of her stepmother is critical to her safety and healing. “We just want her to feel safe and be a child again,” said Sitiena, her voice shaking with emotion.

Yvone Chepkoech, a human rights defender based in Sondu, has also weighed in. “These cases are becoming alarmingly common because communities are neglecting their role to protect children,” she noted. Chepkoech is urging security agencies to intervene promptly, warning that failure to act will only worsen an already dire situation.

As the calls for justice grow louder, residents of Nyakach are left grappling with questions about societal responsibility and the role of community in safeguarding its most vulnerable members. The case of Nelvine is no longer just a family issue, it has become a mirror reflecting a community in crisis.

Local leaders, civil society organizations, and citizens are now being challenged to rise above silence and complacency. In Nelvine’s pain, there lies a call to action: that no child should suffer in the shadows, and every child deserves to grow up with dignity, protection, and love.