The Mountain Journal
editor@themountainjournal.co.ke
Five counties have launched a children’s policy designed to help in the formulation of friendly regulations for the interest of the young.
During celebrations to mark World Children’s Day in Murang’a, the children’s department identified Mombasa, Turkana, Murang’a, Kakamega, and Nyamira as the only devolved units that have launched the policy to assist the implementation of the development programs focusing on the children.
The Director of Children Services George Migosi said they are working on the regulations to operationalize the Children Act 2022, awaiting public participation which will take place within a period of six months.
Mr Migosi lauded Catholic Diocese of Murang’a Bishop James Maria Wainaina and Legacy for Children Director Joseph Muthuri for their support in care for the children and launching of the Children Policy.
Migosi noted that the Supreme Court of Kenya has finalized the development of the Rules and Procedures necessary for guiding the court in implementing the Act.
The court has gazetted the Standing Committee on the Administration of Justice for Children in Kenya, he said.
Migosi said the devolved units are required to promote the interests of the children as the constitution demands.
“The counties of Isiolo, West Pokot, Kirinyaga, Meru, and Kiambu are in the process of developing children’s policies. These policies will unlock resources for the delivery of services to children,” he explained.
A Director at the National Council for Children Services Bishop Bernard Njoroge underscored the need for the national and county governments to create a children’s ministry and allocate enough resources.
Njoroge pleaded with the National Police Service to establish Child Protection Units in all police stations to have a separate holding facility for children who find themselves in the justice system.
“Child-friendly justice means that children are treated as a vulnerable group and in a manner that they can understand their environment when having their rights promoted including the right to be heard which is a natural right,” said Bishop Njoroge.
Murang’a Deputy Governor Stephen Munania said the county government has established a children’s policy to guide and regulate matters concerning children.
“The concern on increased teenage pregnancies will be addressed through the stakeholders forums,” said Munania.
The Bishop explained that the diocese has rolled out many programs aimed at boosting the welfare of children.
“We are calling on all stakeholders to be committed to protecting the rights and privileges of children for a better tomorrow,” said Wainaina.
