State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni has raised concern over the increasing threats facing children and young people in society, warning that cases of missing children, drug abuse, and violence against minors are becoming alarming.
Speaking during an education day at ACK Cathedral in Kerugoya, Kirinyaga County, the Principal Secretary strongly condemned incidents where children disappear after leaving home for school, terming the trend worrying and unacceptable.
“It is very painful and evil when a child leaves home to go to school and then goes missing. Children are innocent and harmless, and no one should use them to settle family disputes or revenge missions,” she said.
She called on social institutions, community leaders, and security agencies to treat matters involving missing children with the seriousness they deserve, saying every child has a right to safety and protection.
“We must all come together as a society to protect our children because they cannot defend themselves. Parents, teachers, religious leaders, and the community must remain vigilant and ensure children are safe at all times,” She said.
Muthoni also expressed concern over rising cases of drug and substance abuse among young people, saying even children of tender age are increasingly becoming victims of narcotics and other harmful substances.
“The use of drugs and substances is now affecting even very young children, and this should worry every parent and leader in the country. If we fail to protect our children from drugs, then we risk destroying an entire generation,” she said.
She praised churches for playing a leading role in mentoring and educating young people, urging religious institutions to continue supporting government efforts aimed at protecting the youth.
The PS further defended the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), saying the new education system was designed to nurture learners according to their talents, abilities, and interests.
“The new education system is helping us understand and nurture every child according to their ability. This approach is also helping reduce mental health challenges among learners because teachers are now focusing on understanding the strengths and needs of every child,” she said.
She noted that the government was working closely with teachers and education stakeholders to ensure learners receive proper guidance and emotional support while in school said the event provided an important platform for government officials, teachers, parents, and church leaders to engage learners on issues affecting their lives and education.
Muthoni said the education day was fruitful as health officials used the opportunity to educate students on hygiene, mental health, discipline, and dangers facing young people both in schools and within the community.
“We have used this occasion to speak to our learners about hygiene, personal responsibility, mental wellness, and the dangers that can destroy the future of our youth. When we guide our children well and give them the right information, we help them become responsible citizens,” said Muthoni
The PS said maintaining proper hygiene and protecting young people from harmful behavior was important in ensuring they grow into productive members of society. She added that the government was committed to working with schools and churches to strengthen mentorship programs for learners.
A retired bishop Daniel Munene Ngoru condemned rising cases of violence and killings involving young people, saying every human being has a right to live.
The retired bishop said it was heartbreaking for the country to continue witnessing children and youth losing their lives through acts of violence.
“It is painful and unfortunate that our country continues to witness killings involving young people. No one has the right to shorten the life of another person because life is a gift from God,” said Ngoru
He warned those involved in evil acts against children that they would be accountable before both God and society.
“Those harming children and young people must know they are answerable not only to society but also to God,” he said.
Ngoru further urged parents to take greater responsibility in raising and protecting their children, describing children as blessings that should be nurtured with love, care, and guidance.
“Children are a blessing from God, and parents must take good care of them and guide them in the right direction,” he said.
By David Wandeto
