Government to conduct census of street families; foreigners to be deported
The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection is set to conduct a nationwide census of street families, with plans to offer improved living conditions and rehabilitation for those affected.
Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua revealed the government's commitment to assisting these families, saying the initiative is aimed at restoring dignity and reintegrating them into society.
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Speaking during a recruitment event in Roysambu on Wednesday, Mutua explained that the growing number of street families is largely due to factors such as poverty, family breakdowns, displacement caused by natural disasters, and the challenging economic conditions that many face.
He emphasised the importance of tackling this issue with a comprehensive approach.
Mutua stated that the ministry, through the Street Families Rehabilitation Trust Fund, is developing a plan to rescue the families and repatriate those from other countries.
"We are reworking the rehabilitation and identification of street families. Some of the individuals we are witnessing in our country are foreigners, drawn to Kenya due to its significant economic influence in the region," Mutua said.
He went on to mention that the ministry, through the Street Families Rehabilitation Trust Fund, is working on a plan not only to help these individuals but also to repatriate foreign nationals back to their countries.
In addition to the efforts for the local families, the ministry is collaborating with the Ministries of Interior and Foreign Affairs to ensure the census is conducted smoothly.
According to Mutua, the census will identify both Kenyan and foreign nationals living on the streets. It will also provide critical information on the underlying causes that lead individuals to end up on the streets.
"We want to find out if it is family breakdown, poverty, or if they are being used as child labourers because we are very concerned about trafficking," the CS added.
The census will also gather information on where street families come from in Kenya to ensure their reintegration into their communities.
In addition, CS Mutua called on Parliament to allocate sufficient funds for these vital programs to support the welfare of street children.
He further explained that once the individuals are rescued, they will undergo assessments to determine suitable placement within the education system.
The government will issue identification cards to those over 18, and those with professional training will have access to internship programmes.
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