The Children’s Department in Nakuru County has identified informal settlements and estates hosting flower farm workers as significant hotspots for cases of child abuse and neglect.
With over 9,000 reported cases in the eleven sub-counties, there is growing concern about the increasing trend. To address this issue, K-Note, a non-governmental organization, has partnered with local communities under the Tetea program, sponsored by the European Union.
Alice Wanyonyi, the Children’s Officer in the county, highlighted that hundreds of cases, particularly in rural areas and informal settlements, go unreported. The department is collaborating with stakeholders to raise awareness and reduce abuse cases, which have led to numerous children dropping out of school.
Speaking in Naivasha during an awareness clinic, Wanyonyi emphasized the lack of a Child Protection Policy in the county.
John Kinuthia from Naivasha Gender Based Networking Cluster noted the rise in defilement cases, especially in informal settlements. The cluster is actively engaged in community awareness initiatives, focusing on areas like Karagita, Mai Mahiu, Kihoto, and Kabati estates, which are most affected by such cases.
Elizabeth Wanjiru, a community health promoter, highlighted challenges facing Maella ward, including early marriages, teenage pregnancies, and substance abuse. She pointed out a concerning trend of high school dropouts in Maella, with underage girls being married off to conceal pregnancies.
