Kakamega County government is planning to start a school feeding programme as part of its commitment to support children attain their dreams.
The County Director of Gender, Children Services, and Labour, Joyce Wafukho, said the programme would first benefit Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) children.
Speaking during the International Day of the African Child, Wafukho also said the county is preparing to launch a social protection policy, which, among other things, will help in safeguarding, protecting, and addressing the welfare of children.
Noting that the county is now firm against any form of child abuse, Wafukho warned that perpetrators would have to face the full force of the law.
She also challenged children to work hard, nurture their talents, and be successful in the future by taking advantage of the opportunities provided for them by different stakeholders, including the government of Kenya.
She promised that the county government, together with the national government, would support all children across the county by creating a conducive environment that will enable them to achieve their dreams and aspirations in life.
The director also noted that the county government would monitor the progress of children’s development by conducting visits to schools and their homes to offer guidance and any necessary support they might need.
Speaking at the same function, Assistant County Commissioner attached to the office of Kakamega County Commissioner Jovins Okoth Wende urged parents to support intersex children.
“As the National Government, we are always ready to support you. If you have intersex children, do not think of conducting surgeries unless advised. Intersex children have rights like other children,” he added.
He said it has come to their attention that some parents of intersex children have opted to abandon them, kill them, or even perform surgeries in attempts to rectify the problem, exposing them to danger and suffering.
By Ayub Mukhongo and Evans Stoba
