Interior CS MURKOMEN warns Homa Bay residents over 'Disco Matanga' amid rising defilement cases

Tuesday, September 16, 2025 - Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has issued a stern warning to Homa Bay residents over the controversial cultural practice known as “disco Matanga.”

Speaking during the Jukwaa la Usalama forum held in Homa Bay on Tuesday, September 16^th, 2025, Murkomen said the events, typically held during funeral vigils, have contributed significantly to exploitation of young women.

“Defilement is a big issue in Homa Bay County.”

“The prevalence of these cases is promoted by cultural practices, including disco matanga, which has been banned,” he stated.

Murkomen further noted that most defilement incidents occur during school holidays and condemned the tendency of some residents to shield perpetrators, particularly when they are relatives.

“These are high crimes. We do not want the community to hide the perpetrators,” he warned.

The CS’ remarks follow his earlier concerns about rising insecurity in Western Kenya, citing drug and alcohol abuse, gang activity, and defilement as major threats.

He announced the deployment of a special team to support regional security officers and urged local leaders and residents to cooperate with law enforcement.

“Our county tours continue to reveal key challenges.”

“We call on leaders and communities to cooperate fully as we tackle these threats,” Murkomen said, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to restoring safety and order in affected regions.

The Kenyan DAILY POST