From Orphanages to Families - A transition Easier Said than Done

Earlier this year, the government of Kenya, under the leadership of cabinet secretary Alfred Mutua, announced a nationwide plan to transition orphaned children from privately owned orphanages into family - based care. The goal was to ensure these children receive proper care and protection, especially from risks such as exploitation and child trafficking which has been recently reported in some institutional settings. While this move marks a significant progress, the government must also consider the challenges of placing children into unfamiliar families and explore alternative solutions to protect their well-being.

While the government aims to help these children grow up in nurturing, family - like environments, it often overlooks the struggles that come with this transition. Without thorough vetting and preparation, placing children into unfamiliar families may expose them to new forms suffering. Not all families are equipped to handle the emotional trauma these children carry, some are unprepared for rejection or the complex psychological needs involved.

According to data from the International Labour Organization (ILO), over 160 million children are subjected to labor exploitation worldwide. And this is happening even without placing them in foster families. Now imagine what could happen if some families genuinely welcome these children into their homes, only to later turn them into domestic workers at a young age. I don't believe that placing children in families is always the best solution. Geoffrey Misokho, the coordinator of the children's department in Kisumu County, noted that children are increasingly being exploited as domestic workers. He explained that this often happens silently within homes, making it difficult to detect. He also urged the public to stay alert and report such cases.

A child carrying water in a bigger container than his age
Photo|Courtesy 

We shouldn't just be quick to blame the government, perhaps they do have the right intentions and well- thought - out strategies to ensure the transition runs smoothly. But if they ultimately choose to place children in foster families, they must commit to regular follow-ups to make sure the system is actually working. These children need more than just new homes, they need connection, safety and emotional support. Authorities must stay close to them, listen to their experiences and never assume that all is well. Strict and consistent monitoring is essential.

Moreover, foster families shouldn't walk this journey alone. The community must also be involved. Raising a child should be a shared responsibility, not just a private family matter.

I urge the government to see this shift as more than just relocation. It is about building relationships and offering healing.