For years, beading has been a source of pride for communities living in Samburu, Laikipia and Marsabit. Girl child beading is a silent practice that has been going on for decades majorly in Samburu county. The girls are exposed to uncountable violations of their rights that include early marriages, denied access to formal education leading to a high level of illiteracy among girls and women. They are also at a high risk of contracting Sexually Transmitted Infections including HIV/Aids as some of these communities often have multiple sexual partners. The Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women (Cedaw) recognises beading as a form of defilement.

Source: The Star October 23, 2019 21:00 UTC