The Kenol Law Courts have begun marking the Annual Child Justice Month under the theme “Securing Justice for Every Child – Enhancing Multi-Agency Collaboration and Increasing Budgetary Allocation to Combat Child Abuse”.
Speaking Thursday at Maranjau Prison during a Court Users Committee (CUC) meeting, Senior Resident Magistrate Sheila Nyaga said the courts have partnered with the CUC, including advocates and other justice stakeholders, to ensure faster resolution of cases involving minors.
Nyaga noted that the court has already drawn a special cause list to prioritize children’s matters following a directive by the Chief Justice that all cases involving minors, both civil and criminal, be concluded within six months.
She added that every day the criminal court sits and handles sexual offence cases involving children.
“So far, we have 107 sexual offence cases, and we are working tirelessly to ensure the backlog is cleared,” she said.
Murang’a South Children’s Officer Evelyn Miring’u said the Child Justice Month involves coordinated efforts between the courts and other government agencies to secure justice for minors.
She urged members of the public to report all cases affecting children, starting from the village elder up to the highest level of the justice system.
“We will continue to work with the courts and the probation office to find lasting solutions that protect children’s rights and their future,” Miring’u said.
She also urged parents to take care of their children during the long holidays, emphasising that they deserve protection and proper guidance.
“Take care of the children. We have heard of many cases of child abuse, and we must end this and not be part of the statistics,” she said.
Advocate Mwangi Nduati from the CUC said stakeholders will use the month to educate children on their rights, particularly those in conflict with the law, those in children’s homes, and those involved in maintenance or adoption cases.
“We want the public to know that this entire month, we are prioritising children’s matters because they are our future. When invited to participate in sessions or hearings, please show up and learn about children’s rights for a better tomorrow,” he said.
As part of the month’s activities, the Judiciary, through the Kenol Law Courts, will visit the Murang’a Juvenile Remand Home to monitor the welfare of children in custody.
The Kenol Court has also set up a Child Service Desk where any concerns or questions regarding children will be addressed throughout November.
By Florence Kinyua and Shem Kithinji
