This archive report was first published on 31 August 2019.
Published on August 31, 2019, by Gladys Burini, a renowned author, this article sheds light on a disturbing reality in Kenya.
Child trafficking is often associated with countries plagued by conflict or insecurity. However, a closer look reveals that it can occur in even the most secure and stable nations.
Perpetrators of child trafficking are not limited to warlords and their associates; they can be individuals of high standing in society with seemingly good intentions.
Jeffrey Epstein, a former teacher, is a prime example. Despite being linked to the royal family and US presidents Bill Clinton and Donald Trump, he was convicted of sex trafficking.
Epstein's case may seem far removed from Kenya, but the country has its own share of child traffickers disguising themselves as generous helpers.
Many households employ children as house helps or house managers, often under the guise of providing financial assistance and ensuring their education. However, these children are subjected to forced labor, physical and emotional abuse, and sexual exploitation.
Some of these children are even blood relatives, making the situation even more disturbing.
The perpetrators use various tactics to control and manipulate the children, including physical abuse, verbal and emotional abuse, and monitoring their communication with their parents.
By its own definition, these individuals have committed child abuse, modern slavery, and child trafficking, making them no different from warlords or notorious figures like R. Kelly.
It is time for introspection and action. Let us stop disguising our actions and acknowledge the harm caused to these innocent children.
