Thousands of children, youth, and families across Kenya who have made the streets their home could soon see a change in their circumstances. The Social Protection Committee, under the leadership of Hon. Alice Ng’ang’a, has taken bold steps toward tackling street homelessness in the country.
During a recent meeting, lawmakers convened with representatives from the Street Families Rehabilitation Trust Fund, led by Hon. Mary Munene, to assess the progress and challenges of addressing street homelessness.
Established in 2003, the Street Families Rehabilitation Trust Fund provides crucial support in the form of psychosocial assistance, education, skills training, and talent development. This initiative aims to rehabilitate street families and reintegrate them into society. According to recent figures, the program has rescued 13,744 individuals, provided education and vocational training to 15,053, and successfully reintegrated 11,308 people back into their communities. Furthermore, 35 county chapters have been established to coordinate grassroots rehabilitation efforts.
Despite the positive strides, the Committee raised serious concerns about the increasing exploitation of street families. Lawmakers were alarmed by reports that wealthy individuals are trafficking street families into Kenya under the guise of offering better opportunities, only to force them into labor in street businesses. Hon. Michael Wainaina expressed the urgent need to tackle this issue, calling for the swift arrest and prosecution of those behind these criminal activities. "We have to ensure those behind these heinous acts are apprehended and prosecuted in accordance with the law," he stressed.
In response, the Social Protection Committee has committed to working closely with law enforcement, child welfare organizations, and immigration authorities to break up these trafficking networks. A multi-agency approach was recommended by Hon. Susan Ngugi, who emphasized that collaboration with disability and child welfare organizations would strengthen efforts. "A joint effort will be more effective," she said.
Looking ahead, the Committee has pledged to introduce new legislation aimed at improving street family rehabilitation. Hon. Ng’ang’a proposed that the plan be restructured to focus on specific areas for more targeted intervention. "Let’s sample specific areas and focus aggressively on resolving the issue there. That can then serve as a blueprint for a nationwide solution. This Committee is committed to your vision. We have to achieve a Kenya free of street families," she said.
The Committee’s proactive stance underscores a strong commitment to addressing the root causes of street homelessness in Kenya, with hopes of ensuring lasting and transformative solutions for vulnerable families across the country.
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