At least 4,400 households in Kirinyaga County have received about Sh9 million government support through the Child welfare Cash Transfer Programme.
The State Department for Children Services PS Carren Agengo said households that are hosting orphans and vulnerable children benefited from the government’s cash transfer programme.
Agengo said the government has so far disbursed a total of Sh8.8 million during the current financial year to help the targeted families in the area meet their basic needs while ensuring vulnerable children remain in home-based care.
Speaking during a citizen engagement forum held at Kianwe Primary school, Kirinyaga West Sub-County, the PS also outlined key achievements and challenges the government was facing in ensuring that vulnerable groups get support.
She said multiple state agencies, under a whole-of-government approach system, were at the forum to help members of the public understand how the government operates, while allowing officials to respond to concerns affecting families and children.
“This platform allows us to listen to the people and address issues affecting children at the grassroots. Our goal is to strengthen families so that children grow up in safe and supportive environments,” she said.
The PS further noted that many children in Kirinyaga County have benefited from the Presidential Bursary Scheme, which has enabled learners from needy backgrounds to remain in school.
Agengo emphasised that education remains a key pillar in child protection, noting that keeping children in school reduces exposure to social risks.
According to the PS, Kirinyaga County has 11 registered childcare institutions hosting 324 children, but institutional care remains the last resort.
She added that the county has five sub-county children services offices working to safeguard children’s rights and provide early intervention.
“We urge parents and community members to report child-related challenges early so that we can act before families break down,” she said.
Agengo identified alcoholism as the main factor pushing children into institutional care in the county.
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to child protection, social support and inclusive service delivery, saying safeguarding children is a shared responsibility that requires collaboration between government and communities.
The PS thanked the Secretary to the Cabinet, Mercy Wanjau for organising the citizen engagement forum, noting that residents benefited from a wide range of government services offered on site.
By David Wandeto
