This archive report was first published on 16 June 2020.
Published on June 16, 2020, a census conducted by the Ministry of Labour in collaboration with Unicef has shed light on the lives of Kenyans living on the streets. The census, which was conducted across the country in 2018, reveals a shocking reality.
According to the census, hundreds of Kenyans living on the streets have at least a degree and postgraduate qualifications. In fact, nine people with postgraduate qualifications from Samburu were found to be living on the streets.
Figures show that 76 per cent of the street persons in Kenya have sat the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education, while 14 per cent have at least the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education. The census also found that most of those with degree certificates live on the streets due to fear of being reprimanded, corporal punishment, and domestic violence.
“Those with postgraduate education cited insecurity as their main reason for going to the streets,” the study says.
The census also revealed that Kericho has the highest number of graduates living in the streets, followed by Kajiado, Nyandarua, Makueni, Nairobi, Tharaka Nithi, and Nakuru.
Labour Cabinet Secretary Simon Chelugui said, “The census was the first of its kind to be conducted in the country. We counted all those permanently and temporarily living on the streets. Their deplorable health is of concern.”
Chelugui also highlighted the challenges faced by street families, including premature deaths, malnutrition, inadequate healthcare, and exposure to substance abuse.
The report shows that the population of Kenyans living on streets is much lower than previous estimates, with 46,639 people. The majority of street persons are males, with 74.2 per cent of the population. The majority of street persons are also youth aged between 19 and 34, with 21,550 people.
Chelugui said the ministry will use the data to develop the National Street Families Bill and a new Street Families Trust Fund strategic plan.
