Written by Alice Njoki.
Sexual abuse of minors is a painful reality that goes beyond schools. It happens in homes, communities, places of worship, and many other spaces where children should feel safe. The recent revelations about a teacher at Alliance Girls High School abusing his position to harm students remind us that this problem is not limited to one place; it can happen anywhere, and it must stop.
The story at Alliance Girls High School, uncovered by journalist and alumna Christine Mungai, revealed how a teacher used his role, especially within the school’s Christian Union, to form emotionally manipulative and sometimes physical relationships with students and former students. Some of these were non-consensual and happened while the girls were still in school.
What is deeply troubling is how the school’s leadership initially responded. Instead of acting quickly to protect the students, the school’s Board of Management seemed more concerned about protecting the school’s reputation. They even pressured the journalist to delay or drop the story. This reaction highlights a dangerous pattern where institutions prioritize their image over the safety and well-being of children.
After a legal battle, the court lifted a gag order that had blocked the story’s publication, affirming that protecting children is a constitutional duty and that the public has a right to know about such abuse. The judge emphasized that silence only protects abusers and harms victims.
Adding to this, Basic Education Principal Secretary Dr. Julius Bitok spoke strongly during a thanksgiving event at Caporos Barnet Secondary School in Nandi County. He called for the arrest of the teacher involved and made it clear that the government will not tolerate any form of teacher-student abuse. He stressed that student safety must always come first, not just at Alliance Girls but in all schools across Kenya.
These events remind us that sexual abuse of minors is often hidden, underreported, and difficult to address because of fear, shame, and power imbalances. Many survivors are told to keep quiet, their feelings dismissed or ignored. This silence protects the abusers and leaves victims alone to suffer.
Listening to survivors speak out on social media and podcasts has been eye-opening. Adults who were once children reveal stories of abuse and rape, and how they were pressured into silence. Their courage to share their experiences shows us how important it is to create safe spaces where children and survivors feel heard, believed, and supported.
We must urge everyone, parents, teachers, community leaders, and children themselves to speak up against abuse. It is vital to validate the feelings of those who have been hurt and to protect them from further harm. Children need to know they have a right to safety, respect, and justice.
The government and institutions must do more than condemn abuse, they must act swiftly to hold perpetrators accountable and ensure survivors get the help they need. Ending sexual abuse of minors requires all of us to be vigilant, compassionate, and brave. We must break the silence, challenge the culture of secrecy, and build a future where every child can live free from fear and harm.
If you or someone you know needs help or wants to share their story, remember you are not alone. Speaking out is the first step toward healing and change.