Nairobi: The government has been urged to reconsider its plans to phase out private children’s homes, as this action could end the crucial support provided to orphans and vulnerable children in these institutions.
According to Kenya News Agency, Nicole Scott, CEO of Baba Nyumbani children’s home, expressed concerns that the government lacks adequate structures and infrastructure to ensure continued support for children currently residing in orphanages once private homes are phased out. The government’s national care reform strategy aims to eliminate private children’s homes by 2032, potentially impacting over 44,000 children.
Scott urged the government to abandon this strategy and instead collaborate with private children’s homes to enhance care and support for the increasing number of orphans and vulnerable children. She highlighted the daily influx of children in need of support and questioned the government’s plan for these children, given the poverty-stricken conditions in many rural Kenyan homes.
Baba
Nyumbani has been operational for 21 years, currently supporting over 250 vulnerable children by providing essential resources such as food, clothing, shelter, and education. Scott noted that 146 alumni have benefited from the institution, with some now working abroad, demonstrating successful reintegration into families and empowerment.
Speaking at a partnership event at Baba Nyumbani in Rarieda subcounty, Siaya county, Scott appealed for more partners, including government support, to aid vulnerable children. She emphasized the importance of community involvement in these initiatives, urging Kenyans to take responsibility for their children rather than relying solely on unsustainable donor funding.
Scott further stated that international partners require local collaboration with the community and government, as foreign aid is insufficient without local support. The government’s care reform strategy, backed by the Children’s Act 2022, aims to phase out private homes to address rising cases of child exploit
ation and trafficking.
