By Eddah Waithaka
Cabinet Secretary for Labour and Social Protection Dr. Alfred Mutua handed over the newly established State Department for Children’s Welfare Services to Principal Secretary Caren Achieng’ during a ceremony at the NSSF Building in Nairobi on April 23, 2025.
The government clarified that it will not shut down all children’s homes—only those operating illegally or violating child welfare standards.
Dr. Mutua made the announcement as authorities intensify efforts to rescue vulnerable children from the streets and improve their care.
“Just yesterday, I approved certificates for 25 children’s homes,” Mutua said. “We will not close facilities that follow the law, but we must shut down illegal ones that enable child trafficking or abuse.”
The new department, now under PS Achieng’s leadership, will focus solely on children’s rights and protection, a shift from its previous oversight under the broader State Department for Social Protection and Senior Citizen Affairs.
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Achieng’ pledged to strengthen child protection systems, partner with the judiciary to expedite children’s court cases, and improve facilities for vulnerable minors.
“I will work with county governments and law enforcement to ensure all police stations and rescue centers have proper child-friendly facilities,” she said.
The move comes as Kenya faces a surge in missing children, many lost to abduction, abuse, or family separation.
By establishing a dedicated department, the government aims to create a safer, more responsive system for the country’s most vulnerable youth.
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