Homa Bay County Commissioner Moses Lilan has issued a stern warning to youths about their irresponsible sexual conduct, which is exacerbating the proliferation of HIV/AIDS infections.
Lilan acknowledged that the county was grappling with a significant challenge, with a high HIV/AIDS prevalence rate of 19.6 percent, as reported in the 2018 Kenya Population-Based HIV Impact Assessment study.
He expressed regret over the fact that a majority of new infections were among the youth, adversely affecting the most economically productive section of the community.
Lilan urged the young population in the county to assume responsibility in safeguarding themselves against behaviors that could impede their progress. He underscored that the government had implemented strategies to combat the disease and implored the youth to collaborate in ensuring the success of these initiatives.
The official stressed the importance of responsible sexual conduct among the youth, asserting, “It falls upon the youth to rally behind these initiatives aimed at curbing new HIV infections.”
The county also grapples with the issue of sexual and gender-based violence among the youth.
Lilan revealed that a substantial number of gender-based violence cases, approximately 50, are reported to authorities on a monthly basis, primarily involving young individuals.
He urged law enforcement agencies and other relevant organizations to play a role in addressing this alarming issue. “It’s disheartening that this challenge plagues our county, yet it remains largely unaddressed,” lamented the County Commissioner.
Speaking at an event commemorating International Youth Day at Tom Mboya University in Homa Bay town, Lilan mentioned that the government had enlisted officials, including Assistant County Commissioners and gender focal persons, to address the emergent problems affecting the youth.
These officials will serve as trainers, equipping others with the tools to address the menace of gender-based violence.
Lilan acknowledged the availability of resources to tackle this issue but called for support from civil society organizations to augment these efforts.
The event was attended by representatives from both the county and national government.
Additionally, the gathering revealed that substance abuse was a hindrance to the aspirations of the youth in Homa Bay.
Lilan stated that the Ministry of Interior and National Administration would intensify their campaign against drug abuse.
County Youth Director Elector Opar urged the youth in Homa Bay to capitalize on the opportunities provided by the government for income-generating activities.
These opportunities encompass financial aid in the form of loans for groups.
Opar affirmed that her office was readily available to provide guidance to anyone seeking assistance in harnessing these opportunities.
“With employment becoming scarcer, our youth can leverage numerous avenues to empower themselves,” emphasized the Youth Director.
