Nairobi County Chief Officer for Citizen Engagement and Customer Service Geoffrey Mosiria has rescued a 14-year-old girl who had allegedly been forced into marriage in Nairobi.
According to a statement issued on Thursday, May 7, the minor was reportedly sold by her uncle and married off at the age of 12 to an elderly man.
Mosiria noted that the girl, who is of Ethiopian origin, has no relatives in Kenya apart from the uncle accused of selling her, while her mother remains in Ethiopia.
Teen girl rescued from forced marriage in Nairobi through Geoffrey Mosiria’s intervention. Photo: Courtesy.
The minor has since been rescued as authorities move to address the circumstances surrounding the alleged forced marriage and exploitation.
“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 she doesn’t have relatives in Kenya apart from the uncle who sold her out. Her mum is in Ethiopia,” read the statement in part.
According to Mosiria, the suspect is currently being held at Kasarani Police Station as investigations into the case continue.
He further confirmed that the 14-year-old girl has been placed at a rescue centre where she is receiving care, protection, and support following her rescue from the alleged forced marriage.
The Nairobi County Chief Officer also issued a strong warning against forced marriages involving minors, stating that such practices are illegal and will not be tolerated.
He emphasized that anyone involved in marrying or cohabiting with underage children must stop immediately and ensure the minors are returned to safe environments, warning that offenders will face legal action under Kenyan law.
