Western region leads in abortion, say MPs

By LAWRENCE ALURU

Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (Kewopa) now claims western region is leading in abortion cases.

The research that was conducted by Kewopa between February and April indicated that 78 per cent of these women were below the age of 24.

Speaking yesterday in Siaya County, Kewopa training leader Chrispine Hafifu said this was very pathetic.

“The survey indicated that women aged 24 and below in the region have the highest number going for abortion as a result of lack of information and poverty in the area,” he said.

Hafifu said that something must be done to avert the problem, adding that the situation was so grave at the moment.

“The increase of abortion cases is due to lack of information which has led to young women engaging in unhealthy activities that put their lives in danger,” he said.

He urged the Members of County Assemblies to consider increasing the allocation for health in the next financial year 2014/2013.

Hafifu said there has been a wide gap in health care allocation with the highest level being six per cent of the total national budget.