Malava, Kakamega County — A mother from Malava in Kakamega County is desperately seeking assistance to find her teenage son, Clinton Mengo, who went missing on the morning of Thursday, June 5. Before leaving home, Clinton left behind a handwritten letter apologizing to his mother and asking her not to search for him.
The mother revealed that Clinton disappeared after she reprimanded him for repeatedly making the same mistakes despite several warnings.
She expressed deep concern about how to effectively discipline boys aged between 11 and 18, especially when they continue to err. She also sought advice from other parents on better ways to guide teenagers without pushing them away.
“I am very worried and stressed. How do parents discipline boys in this age group when they keep repeating the same mistakes? I want to learn how to correct him properly so this does not happen again,” she said.
Details from Clinton’s Letter
In the letter, Clinton expressed remorse and shared his reasons for leaving home. He promised to change but said he needed to do so away from his family.
“Hi Mum, I know I have made a mistake, and I am very sorry. Please do not worry about me. I will change while I am away from home, which is why I have decided to leave,” Clinton wrote.
He also denied an accusation that he had stolen a phone, which had caused conflict the previous day. Clinton claimed the accusation was false and that he was coerced into confessing to the theft.
“I did not steal Noel’s phone. I don’t even know where he usually keeps it. He forced me to admit to stealing so that you would punish me. He also told Sergio that, since you are far away, he would con you out of some money. I am sorry. Please forgive me,” the letter read.
The teenager further asked his mother not to look for him, assuring her that he had taken his medication with him and would continue to take it. He expressed frustration that his claims of illness were not believed.
“I have taken my drugs with me and will keep taking them. Every time I say I’m sick, you don’t believe me,” Clinton wrote.
Reactions from the Public
The contents of Clinton’s letter touched many Kenyans on social media, prompting mixed reactions. Some offered heartfelt advice, others shared personal parenting experiences, while many emphasized the need for love and counseling for the boy.
Faith Nduku Mutua wrote, “When he said, ‘Every time I say I’m sick, you don’t believe me,’ it broke my heart. This is a child who feels unloved and hurt. I pray he is found safe.”
Ebby Kareha added, “Parenting has no manual, and kids can push our patience to the limit. I pray he is found safe and healthy. Once found, he needs counseling to understand that running away does not solve problems. Mama, stay strong—I know you are not sleeping.”
Ava Onyango encouraged a change in parenting approach: “I hope he comes back home safely soon. Parents today must balance discipline, guidance, love, friendship, listening, and prayer. Kids thrive on understanding and positive encouragement, not just force. I speak as a mother of two sons.”

Nairobi Family Rejoices as Missing Son Found Safe Within 24 Hours
In a related story, Newshub.co.ke reported that a young boy from Nairobi was found safe less than 24 hours after disappearing.
Austine Karema went missing while playing with friends at Imara Daima estate near Penda Hospital. The boy was discovered by a group of mkokoteni (handcart) operators at the Mukuru kwa Njenga dumping site, who promptly reunited him with his family.
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