Tharaka nithi: Senior judicial officers and national government administrators in Tharaka Nithi County have called for enhanced child protection mechanisms, stronger reporting structures, and urgent investment in child-friendly facilities in order to enhance justice for children. They were speaking during an Open Day held at the Chuka Law Courts to mark the Annual National Child Justice Service Month 2025.
According to Kenya News Agency, the event, observed countrywide every November, seeks to strengthen Kenya's commitment to safeguarding children's rights and ensuring faster, more child-sensitive justice processes. Presiding Judge Roseline Koril, who led the ceremony, said this year's theme, 'Security and Justice for Every Child' reflects the national ambition to make the justice system more responsive to minors.
Koril noted that Tharaka-Nithi County lacks a dedicated children's courtroom, forcing magistrates to convert ordinary courtrooms into temporary children's courts whenever sensitive matters arise. 'We clear the court to protect the privacy of children, but the facilities remain inadequate for the specialised attention they require,' she said, calling for the establishment of a properly equipped children's court.
The judge condemned harmful cultural practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM) and expressed concern over children exposed to gender-based violence, saying such experiences cause long-term trauma. She further emphasised the importance of mediation, community awareness, and ensuring children receive their basic rights, including safety, nutrition, health, and education.
Judge Koril also advocated for the establishment of a one-stop child protection centre in the region, a model that consolidates medical care, psychosocial support, and legal services under one roof. 'One-stop centres speed up justice because prosecutors and magistrates can access evidence immediately, reducing delays and protecting the welfare of the child,' she said.
The area County Commissioner, David Gitonga, urged residents to actively report child abuse, neglect, and suspicious behaviour, stressing that communities play a crucial role in early intervention. Gitonga advised residents to make use of the Mlika Uhalifu code 988, a toll-free service that enables them to report crimes and child abuse cases anonymously and without fear of retaliation. 'Anyone can dial 988, report a case without revealing their identity, and receive immediate support,' he said.
The County Commissioner urged chiefs, village elders, religious leaders, teachers, and civil society groups to work closely with law enforcement and children's officers to strengthen prevention and response mechanisms. Chuka North Subcounty Children's Officer Moses Murangiri said child neglect remains the most reported case within the region, followed closely by defilement.
He warned parents against abandoning or failing to take care of their children, stressing that both parents and the community share responsibility in protecting minors. Murangiri also outlined the mandate of the Directorate of Children Services, which includes case rescue, child welfare monitoring, and coordinating interventions aimed at upholding the best interests of the child. 'The Directorate looks into the welfare of children and ensures their rights are protected, but we need full cooperation from parents, teachers, and the community,' he stated.