The State Department for Children Services is stepping up efforts to involve children in key societal and national development issues affecting their welfare through structured engagement platforms.
Through the Kenya Children Assembly, the government is promoting active participation of children in identifying challenges and proposing actionable solutions on matters such as human rights, education, health, and culture.
Nakuru County Coordinator for Children’s Services, Pilot Khaemba, said the initiative recognises children as active members of society capable of shaping decisions that affect their lives.
“The government recognises children as active members of society who can identify their needs and develop solutions, enabling them to influence policy, law formulation, and budgetary processes from their own perspective,” said Khaemba.
Established in 2011, the Kenya Children Assembly brings together children from diverse ethnic and social backgrounds to deliberate on issues affecting their well-being.
The platform mirrors formal governance systems, with elected child leaders assuming roles such as Governor, Speaker, and Clerk, offering practical exposure to leadership and democratic processes.
Khaemba noted that the Assembly also serves as a bridge between the government and children at the grassroots level.
“The Assembly facilitates child participation, which is very key in a child’s life,” he said, adding that it enables young leaders to communicate government policies to their peers and relay feedback through devolved structures.
He cited legal frameworks, including the Children Act and the Constitution of Kenya 2010, which recognise and guarantee child participation at all levels.
“The government is keen on protecting and promoting the rights of children because they are the foundation and vital resource of any country. Proper planning and budgeting for their needs is essential,” he added.
Speaking on the sidelines of the County Children Assembly swearing-in ceremony, Khaemba urged parents and stakeholders to create supportive environments for children.
“The protection and promotion of children’s rights begins at the family level. Parents and stakeholders must plan and budget adequately to provide basic needs such as food, shelter, and education,” he said.
The establishment of the Nakuru County chapter provides children with a structured avenue to participate meaningfully in development and engage in national discourse.
During the ceremony held at the Kenya National Library Service hall in Nakuru, Senior Principal Magistrate Tito Gesora presided over the swearing-in of new child leaders.
Maxwell Owino, Mary Nyanchama, and Praize Yegon were sworn in as Governor, Deputy Governor, and Speaker, respectively.
The elected leaders will serve for a minimum of one term of two years and a maximum of two terms. The Assembly will comprise 55 representatives—one from each ward—alongside clerks, sergeants-at-arms, and other officials supported by stakeholders, including the Scouts Association.
Khaemba emphasised that the platform equips children with leadership, organisational, and advocacy skills.
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“This is an opportunity for children to learn how to organise themselves and champion the right agenda that benefits their peers, especially the vulnerable,” he said.
The Assembly operates under the State Department for Children Services within the Ministry of Gender, Culture, and Children Services, and aligns with Article 53 of the Constitution and the Children Act 2022, both of which prioritise the best interests of the child.
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Khaemba challenged children to take full advantage of the platform.
“Children should use structured channels like the Kenya Children Assembly to express their views and deliberate on issues affecting their lives,” he said.
By Kimutai Langat
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