The Kenyan government, in collaboration with stakeholders, is finalizing regulations to operationalize the Children Act 2022, with public participation set to occur within six months. Speaking during World Children’s Day celebrations in Murang’a, Director of Children Services George Migosi emphasized that these regulations are critical for implementing the Act effectively.
Migosi noted that the Supreme Court has already developed necessary Rules and Procedures, and praised the Judiciary’s role in advancing the child justice system.
“The Judiciary’s efforts, including the gazettement of the Standing Committee on the Administration of Justice for Children in Kenya, are commendable steps toward improving child welfare,” said Migosi.
County-Level Progress
Migosi highlighted that several counties, including Kakamega, Turkana, and Mombasa, have made strides in drafting specific children’s policies. Other counties like Isiolo, West Pokot, and Meru are in the process of formulating similar frameworks, which will unlock resources for delivering child-focused services.
Challenges and Gaps
Despite these developments, Migosi acknowledged persistent challenges, such as:
- Resource limitations in delivering children’s services.
- High rates of violence against children.
- Family disintegration, exacerbated by the erosion of traditional values.
- Emerging threats like climate change, which pose risks to children’s futures.
Call for a Ministry of Children
Bishop Bernard Njoroge, Director of the National Council for Children Services, proposed the establishment of a dedicated Ministry for Children to ensure consistent funding for child welfare programs.
“A ministry focused on children will enable better budget allocations and more effective handling of children’s issues,” said Njoroge.
He also urged the Inspector General of Police to set up Child Protection Units in all police stations, with separate facilities for children in conflict with the law to create a child-friendly justice system.
Kenya’s Achievements in Child Welfare
UNICEF Kenya Chief of Communications, Advocacy, and Partnerships Michelle Borromeo commended Kenya for significant progress, including:
- Reduction in stunting rates from 26% in 2014 to 18% in 2022 due to strategic investments in nutrition.
- A notable drop in under-five mortality rates from 115 to 47 per 1,000 live births between 2003 and 2023, attributed to improved primary healthcare and access to trained health practitioners.
Borromeo urged the government to sustain social spending to protect these gains and continue advancing children’s welfare.
County-Level Initiatives
Murang’a Deputy Governor Stephen Munania highlighted the county’s newly established Children’s Policy, which focuses on:
- Enhancing school-development programs.
- Addressing teenage pregnancies through coordinated efforts.
- Prioritizing children’s rights and access to education and food security.
Church Involvement
Murang’a Catholic Bishop James Maria Wainaina called on religious institutions to take an active role in supporting vulnerable children, citing the Diocese’s efforts to implement welfare programs.
The multi-faceted approach to child welfare, encompassing legal, institutional, and community-level interventions, reflects Kenya’s commitment to safeguarding children’s rights and well-being.
