Kisii County Commissioner Godfrey Kigochi has raised concerns over the increased cases of child labour in the region.
Speaking on Monday, Kigochi said parents across the county have been allowing underage children to do manual works in farms with the intention of getting money.
The commissioner noted that child labour has led to increased cases of children dropping out of school.
"Parents across the county are failing in their parental duties. It is sad that several underage children are working at people's farms so that they can get money. Parents need to know that child labour is an offence punishable by the law," he stated.
The county security boss noted that anyone found employing underage children will be arrested and arraigned in a court of law.
Kigochi said several underage children have joined the bodaboda business, adding that irresponsible parenting is to blame for the new trend.
"Every child should be taken to school and be allowed to complete their studies because the government is offering free education. Locals chiefs must identify parents who have allowed young children to work as labourers for legal action to be taken against them," said Kigochi.
Kigochi assured residents that police officers will conduct a crackdown to arrest people who have hired underage kids.