Principal Secretary for Children Services Carren Ageng’o has committed to stronger government action to protect children’s rights and enhance child protection services nationwide.
Ageng’o emphasised that effective child protection necessitates robust institutions capable of consistently providing children with the requisite care, protection, and support.
“Strengthening child protection systems demands continuous oversight, effective collaboration, and strong institutions to ensure every child receives the care, protection, and support they deserve.”She stated
The PS made the remarks during a monitoring and inspection exercise of key statutory child protection institutions in Busia and Kakamega counties. She was accompanied by Esther Wasige, Western Region Children’s Coordinator, and other officers from the Department of Children Services.
In Busia, the team visited the County Children’s Office before conducting a spot check at the Child Protection Unit within the Busia County Police Headquarters. Discussions with police officers focused on service delivery and interventions concerning children in contact with the law.
The PS noted that the exercise offered an opportunity to evaluate the functionality of child protection mechanisms at the point where children interact with the justice and law enforcement systems.
In Kakamega, the delegation inspected ongoing projects at the Kakamega Children’s Rehabilitation School and the Kakamega Children’s Remand Home.
The inspection scrutinised resource utilisation, quality of care, institutional conditions, rehabilitation programmes, and the overall well-being of children under the institutions’ care.
The visits form part of the department’s broader monitoring mandate, aimed at ensuring that child protection institutions operate effectively and that allocated resources translate into appropriate services for children.
Ageng’o said the government would continue working with institutions and partners to reinforce systems supporting children, especially those requiring protection, rehabilitation, or other forms of specialised care.
“We remain committed to strengthening child protection systems through regular monitoring, institutional support, and strategic partnerships that uphold the rights, welfare, and best interests of every child,” she said.
The Department of Children Services has also urged the public to actively participate in child protection by reporting any instances where a child may be at risk or require intervention.
