Gucha Sub County Area Advisory Council (AAC) has approved five children’s homes following a thorough evaluation to ensure they meet the required standards for child welfare.
This decision was reached during a meeting at the Deputy County Commissioner’s Hall, chaired by Assistant County Commissioner Julius Rono.
The inspections, led by Sub-County Children Officer Faith Ombongi, involved detailed assessments to determine whether the homes offered an environment conducive to children’s growth and safety.
The team evaluated essential aspects such as the availability of educational facilities, proper accommodations, and mechanisms for handling grievances.
They also assessed the financial transparency of the homes, requiring up-to-date and audited financial records, as well as proper documentation for children, staff, and visitors.
Love and Blessings Children’s Home, Faith Children’s Centre, Life-Way Children’s Centre, White Oak Children’s Home, and Esther Children’s Centre passed the rigorous inspections. However, two facilities failed to meet the requirements and were denied approval.
Sub-County Police Commander Christine Amaya cautioned against the misuse of children’s homes for personal gain, warning that individuals operating such institutions solely to solicit funds from donors would face severe consequences.
“We will not tolerate exploitation under the guise of child welfare,” she emphasised.
The meeting also touched on the government’s long-term goal of deinstitutionalising children’s homes by 2030.
The plan aims to integrate children into family-based care systems, preferably with relatives, as part of a broader strategy to provide children with stable and nurturing environments.
The AAC’s efforts reflect a firm commitment to ensuring that children’s homes not only meet physical requirements but also foster emotional and intellectual growth.
This aligns with Kenya’s Children Act and international child protection standards, including the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
The approval of these homes marks a significant step in safeguarding vulnerable children while encouraging accountability and transparency among care institutions in Gucha Sub-County.
By Misheba Alfred
