A new comprehensive Child Protection Policy has been launched in Lunga-Lunga, Kwale County, with a strong focus on promoting access to quality and inclusive education for all children, particularly those at risk of abuse, neglect, and discrimination.
The policy, spearheaded by Kidscare in collaboration with the national and county governments, seeks to strengthen child protection systems while ensuring that education remains central in efforts to empower children and safeguard their rights.
Kidscare Executive Director George Baya said the policy borrows key aspects from both national and county frameworks and has been fine-tuned to address the implementation gaps that often hinder access to essential services like education at the grassroots level.
“This policy goes beyond protection. It creates a foundation where every child regardless of their background or ability can access safe, inclusive, and quality education,” he said.
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Baya said that the policy is community-driven and seeks to equip local stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and child protection officers, with tools and knowledge to detect abuse, respond appropriately, and ensure children remain in school.
“Lunga-Lunga sub-county has faced rising cases of school dropouts due to teenage pregnancies, child marriages, and child labour,” he said.
Baya said the policy addresses some of the challenges by strengthening prevention strategies and educational support systems.
“The approach is holistic. It doesn’t just shield children from harm, it ensures they thrive in school, access healthcare, and enjoy equal opportunities to grow and contribute meaningfully to society,” he said
He added that the special focus has been given to children with disabilities, who often face systemic neglect in education, health and empowerment opportunities among others.
Baya said the policy mandates inclusive programming that accommodates their needs and eliminates barriers to learning.
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“Children with disabilities must not be left behind. The policy pushes for inclusive education models and support services tailored to help them thrive in home and school settings,” Baya said.
Vanga Senior Chief 1 Kama Abdalla echoed the importance of education in child protection, saying that ensuring children stay in school is one of the most effective ways to prevent exploitation and abuse.
He urged communities to embrace collective responsibility in keeping children safe and in school.
“The policy reminds us that raising and protecting a child is everyone’s duty from parents and teachers to neighbors and leaders,” he said.
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Abdalla further explained that the new policy complements existing child welfare initiatives by integrating practical, education-focused interventions that reflect the realities of regions like Lunga-Lunga.
Pongwe-Kikoneni Ward Administrator Juma Mwaziro said the county government is taking deliberate steps to improve both community and learning environments for vulnerable children, including plans to establish rescue centres that double as support hubs.
Mwaziro said the rescue centres, to be set up in phases, will be equipped to provide psychosocial support, trauma healing and life skills training to help children to effectively reintegrate into society.
BY OMAR SHABAN
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