The Kenyan government is ramping up efforts to protect and uplift children across the country through a holistic strategy that combines social protection, parenting support, and digital safety initiatives. Principal Secretary Carren Ageng’o of the State Department for Children Welfare Services revealed these developments during a televised interview on KBC Channel 1.
At the core of these initiatives is the Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) Cash Transfer Programme, which currently supports over 400,000 households, reaching more than one million children. This programme helps families meet essential needs such as food, education, and healthcare.
Ageng’o also highlighted a nutritional support programme targeting children under 36 months from extremely poor households. “The ages of 0 to 36 months are crucial for a child’s growth,” she emphasized, underlining the government’s focus on early childhood development.
In addressing child neglect and abuse, the PS underscored the importance of parental training. With research showing that over 70% of child protection cases stem from parental neglect, the government has initiated parenting programmes and alternative mediation processes to encourage cooperative co-parenting, thus avoiding court battles and promoting stable family environments.
Ageng’o warned of the growing dangers children face online, citing cyberbullying, sexual exploitation, and unsafe digital practices. To address this, the department has launched safety guidelines and awareness campaigns focused on responsible internet use.
Reaffirming Kenya’s commitment to eradicating child labour, she stated, “No child under 18 should engage in economic activity. Our children must be in school.”
On a personal note, PS Ageng’o shared her journey from the Kenya Revenue Authority to public service, her background in education and tax administration, and her intent to become a foster parent. Raised in a large polygamous family of 32 siblings, Ageng’o credited her late father’s belief in education as the root of her passion for child welfare.
“I relate well to budgeting for children because I understand how revenue is generated,” she said, stressing the need for inclusive planning and strong legal frameworks to protect every child.
