This archive report was first published on 26 August 2020.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit Kenya in March, over 1,400 street children have been rescued, rehabilitated, and reunited with their families.
According to Linah Jebii Kilimo, chairperson of the Street Families Rehabilitation Trust Fund (SFRTF), these children are now receiving better care from their families.
However, Kilimo revealed that many of these children continue to face exploitation, with some forced to use drugs, engage in prostitution, and participate in child labor.
"Street children continue to be exploited, with their rights being violated due to the harsh environments they live in," Kilimo said during a visit to the Onesmus Good Boys Centre, where some of the children are being rehabilitated.
Kilimo urged parents and caregivers to ensure that these children receive proper care and support to prevent them from returning to the streets.
"Give these children a safe and nurturing environment; do not reject those who have been rehabilitated. We are committed to protecting street children and reuniting them with their families," Kilimo emphasized.
According to Kilimo, the increase in the number of street children can be attributed to factors such as poverty, family breakdown, conflict, and abuse at home, as well as poor healthcare and inadequate care.
Despite these challenges, Kilimo noted that the children are receiving training to help them reintegrate into society.
Joseph Matheka, director of the Onesmus Good Boys Centre, said that the children are being helped despite being normal children who would be vulnerable to exploitation if not guided.
