Teenage pregnancies rise in Meru as 17 young mothers sit for KPSEA exams
By Nelson Mutwiri, October 28, 2025Igembe region in Meru County has recorded one of the highest numbers of teenage pregnancies, according to health officials at Nyambene Level 4 Hospital.
Githu Wachira, the Medical Officer of Health, said that 17 girls currently sitting for their KPSEA exams are also new mothers receiving care at the hospital.
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The hospital has responded by launching a Support Group Programme for Teenage Mothers, designed to guide, educate, and counsel young mothers so they can rebuild their lives while continuing their education.
“The programme focuses on giving hope, parenting skills, and mentorship so the girls can continue with school while caring for their babies,” Wachira said.
The official called on parents, teachers, churches, and community leaders to join efforts in preventing early pregnancies and protecting the girl child from further risks. “Having a baby at a young age is not the end of life. You can still rise, continue with school, and have a bright future,” he encouraged the teenage mothers.
Experts say the rise in teenage pregnancies in the region is driven by a combination of factors, including poverty, lack of access to reproductive health education, and social pressures.
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Health officials and educators are urging stronger community awareness programmes, mentorship, and parental engagement to address the trend before more girls drop out of school.
Similar challenges have been reported in Khwisero, Kakamega County, where 31 girls were reported pregnant while sitting for national exams. Khwisero Sub-County Commissioner Janet Khatambi revealed that authorities had arranged transport to hospitals for girls who might go into labour during exams and launched investigations to hold accountable those responsible for the pregnancies.
Khwisero MP Christopher Aseka condemned the incidents, urging law enforcement and community leaders to step up protection for schoolgirls and ensure their educational continuity. “Men preying on schoolgirls and defiling minors cannot be tolerated. Our security apparatus must act decisively,” Aseka said.