A surge in cases of child neglect has caused an uproar among authorities, prompting a call for concerted efforts among all stakeholders to address the matter.
Speaking to KNA, the Igembe South sub-county children’s officer, Vincent Kaunda, noted that the rise calls for immediate interventions.
Kaunda reported handling over 15 cases of child neglect every day in his office.
According to the officer, the surge is closely linked to drug and alcohol abuse, adding that many parents have turned to alcoholism, leaving their children in the hands of relatives or to fend for themselves.
Kaunda maintained that many parents, specifically men, are not taking part in childrearing, leaving the entire burden on women, the majority of whom are not financially stable, making it impossible to provide their children with all necessities.
“The absence of paternal support and involvement has left many mothers to bear the weight of parentage alone, increasing the chances of child neglect, ’he said.
He further noted that some families are often in a toxic atmosphere due to domestic violence, which leaves children’s needs unattended.
“Many families have become inhabitable due to domestic violence, which disrupts families, leaving children psychologically and emotionally tortured,’ he said.
Kaunda noted that the exacerbating issue calls for a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including local authorities, to ensure all children grow up in a safe environment.
He further linked child neglect with the overwhelming demands of raising many children and advised parents to embrace family planning so as to raise children by choice rather than by chance.
“With the adverse economic hardships, family planning is essential in managing family size and ensuring each child receives the resources they require for their daily living,’’ Kaunda emphasised.
By Kamanja Maeria and Mary Wairimu
