By Ijoo Bosco
Terekeka County caretaker commissioner Abraham Kenyi John has banned nighttime traditional dances, citing concerns over teenage pregnancies, declining school attendance, and rising cases of shop break-ins.
Kenyi said the restriction applies exclusively to nighttime dances, while daytime cultural activities, including traditional wrestling, will continue to be allowed.
According to the commissioner, 52 cases of teenage pregnancies involving underage girls have been recorded in connection with the dances, which reportedly take place between 5 p.m. and 2 a.m.
He said the prolonged nighttime gatherings had raised concerns among local authorities about their potential impact on young people’s education and safety.
The commissioner said the ban would remain in force as authorities assess its impact, without specifying when the restriction might be reviewed.
Kenyi also urged young people to prioritise education and avoid activities that could interfere with their schooling.
The decision seeks to address concerns about teenage pregnancies and school attendance while maintaining daytime cultural practices, including traditional wrestling, which remain an important part of community life.
Further details on how the ban will be enforced and whether consultations will be held with community leaders and cultural groups were not immediately available.