Kajiado North Deputy County Commissioner Yusufu Muhammed has called on parents to take greater responsibility for their children during the upcoming festive season, warning that the long school holiday presents heightened risks of exposure to drugs, crime, and negative peer influence.
Speaking during Mashujaa Day celebrations held at Embul-Bul grounds in Kajiado North, Muhammed emphasized that parental vigilance is critical in safeguarding the well-being of young people, especially teenagers who are often left unsupervised for extended periods.
“As we head into the festive season, let us take personal responsibility as parents to watch over our children and protect them from bad company,” he said. “This is not the time to relax. It’s the time to be present, to guide, and to protect.”
The Deputy County Commissioner noted that the two-month holiday, which coincides with national examinations and end-of-year festivities, often sees a spike in cases of drug and substance abuse, loitering, and juvenile delinquency.
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He urged parents not to relent in exercising their role, stressing that child protection is a shared duty, not one that should be left solely to law enforcement.
“Security agencies cannot be everywhere. We need parents, guardians, and community leaders to step up and play their part. It’s a collective responsibility,” Muhammed said.
He also took a moment to wish candidates sitting their national exams success, encouraging them to remain focused and disciplined. “To all our candidates, we are proud of you. Go out there and do your best,” he added.
The event drew hundreds of residents and local leaders, many of whom echoed the call for stronger family and community engagement during the festive season to curb rising social vices among youth in the area.
By Masaki Enock
