This archive report was first published on 4 November 2019.
As the number of single mothers in Kenya continues to swell, Murang'a Senator Irungu Kang'ata has suggested a novel approach to compel deadbeat fathers to support their children: listing them with the Credit Reference Bureau (CRB) until they pay up.
According to Senator Kang'ata, the current Children's Act has loopholes that men have exploited to avoid their financial responsibilities. His proposed amendments would not only list deadbeat fathers with CRB but also bar them from leaving the country and deny them business licenses.
While some, like Ms. Priscillar Mungah, a Coast-based gender activist, support the proposal, others, such as Mr. Okeng'o Nyambane, President of Gusii Young Leaders Association, argue that it is too harsh and may have unintended consequences.
Ms. Mungah believes that the proposal will encourage men to take responsibility for their actions, while Mr. Nyambane fears that it will unfairly punish young men who may struggle to make ends meet.
As Kenya grapples with economic challenges, the debate surrounding deadbeat dads and their responsibilities highlights the need for a balanced approach that protects both children and their parents.
Published on November 4, 2019
