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Mosiria warns against forced child marriage after rescuing 14-year-old girl
07th May, 2026 06:37 AM
Nairobi’s Chief Officer for Citizen Engagement and Customer Service, Geoffrey Mosiria, has strongly condemned forced child marriage after rescuing a 14-year-old girl, whom he says had been married off at the age of 12 to an elderly man in Nairobi.
In a statement issued on Thursday, May 7, 2026, Mosiria revealed that the teenage Ethiopian girl had no known relatives in Kenya, apart from an uncle who, according to Mosiria, sold her into marriage.
He added that the girl’s mother is said to be living in Ethiopia.
“Tonight, we rescued a 14-year-old girl who had been forced into marriage at the age of 12 with an old man, almost the age of his grandfather. The child is Ethiopian, and the she doesn’t have relatives in Kenya apart from the uncle who sold her out,” Mosiria wrote.
“Her mum is in Ethiopia.”
According to Mosiria, the person of interest was arrested and is currently being held at the Kasarani Police Station as investigations continue.
“The person of interest is currently in custody at Kasarani Police Station,” he added.
Safe rescue
In addition, the chief officer stated that the rescued girl was taken to a safe rescue centre, where she is currently receiving care and protection.
“The child has been taken to a rescue centre where she is receiving care and protection,” he said.
Warning
Additionally, Mosiria strongly warned against forcing underage girls into marriage, saying the practice denies them their right to education, safety, and a dignified childhood.
He noted that such practices rob children of their right to education, safety, and a dignified childhood.
“I strongly warn against the practice of forcing underage girls into marriage, which denies them their right to education, safety, and a dignified childhood. Children are not objects of exploitation and must be protected at all costs,” Mosiria warned.
Mosiria further warned that anyone involved in marrying or cohabiting with underage children risks facing firm legal action.
“Any individual involved in marrying or cohabiting with an underage child must immediately desist and ensure the child is returned to a safe environment. Failure to do so will result in firm legal action in accordance with the law,” he noted.
I strongly warn against the practice of forcing underage girls into marriage, which denies them their right to education, safety, and a dignified childhood. Children are not objects of exploitation and must be protected at all costs.
