The Kenyan government is set to establish special courts in all refugee camps to tackle child labour and abuse. This decision comes amid growing concerns over the exploitation of children in these settings.
A joint statement from the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU), the Ministry of Labour, the Law Society of Kenya, and the Judiciary outlined the plan. In an X press release on Sunday, September 21, 2025, the Judiciary emphasized that the courts will provide faster access to justice for child victims.
“The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, working with the Judiciary, will establish courts in refugee camps to improve access to justice for refugees,” the statement said.
The courts will adopt child-friendly procedures, provide legal aid, and offer remedies such as compensation and rehabilitation. They will also draw from international best practices to protect children’s rights.
Oversight will be provided jointly by the Ministry of Labour and the Judiciary. The courts will focus on cases of child labour and other abuses affecting minors in refugee camps.
The government will also implement universal social protection systems to help children who have experienced labour exploitation access essential services such as healthcare, education, and rehabilitation.
The statement stressed the need for monitoring private spaces, including homes, where child labour and abuse are often hidden.
This initiative demonstrates Kenya’s commitment to protecting vulnerable children in refugee camps, combining judicial measures with social support to ensure their safety and well-being.
