Child abuse is a reality and incidents of child molestation have been rising steadily. What is alarming is that the perpetrators are persons known to the victims: their fathers, uncles, cousins, grandfathers and stepfathers.

       These are the people tasked to ensure that these children are given all the opportunities to grow up into happy and mature individuals. But the rising cases of sexual harassment among children are an indication that these adults do not fully understand the significant role they play in a child's life. They should have been protecting these kids, not harming them in any way.

        Who else can these children turn to knowing that the very people who are supposed to be the first ones to protect them are the very ones inflicting pain and torture on their young victims?

        The government should find all measures to ensure the well-being and protection of these children if they are to be the hope of the land.