In our ongoing commitment to child-centered, family-based care, Lift the Children (LTC)—in collaboration with the National Council for Children’s Services (NCCS)—successfully hosted a two-day sensitization training on Child Welfare Programs and Transition Guidelines. The event, held on 10th and 11th July 2025 at Agape Children’s Home in Dagoretti, brought together over 60 directors, managers, social workers, and Sub-County Children Officers from across Kenya.

The training focused on equipping LTC-supported homes with the legal, strategic, and practical tools necessary to align with Kenya’s Children Act 2022 and the national Care Reform Strategy. With over 44,000 children still living in institutional care, the need to build capacity for safe, well-planned transitions has never been more urgent.

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Highlights from the Two-Day Training

 

✅ Understanding the Legal Framework

Facilitated by Hari Stanley from NCCS, the first session offered a deep dive into the Children Act 2022, comparing it with the 2001 version and explaining new protections for intersex children, safeguards against corporal punishment, and promotion of family-based care. Participants learned the legal implications of operating as rescue centres without formal approval and were guided on the inclusion of children with disabilities and diverse gender identities.

✅ Embracing the Care Reform Journey

Care reform was presented as a phased journey: learning, preparation, and implementation. Homes were urged to start crafting transition plans, prioritize reintegration, and collaborate with Sub-County Children Officers (SCCOs). Institutions must be ready to present their transition plans by 2028, with full implementation expected by 2032.

✅ Case Management and Gatekeeping

Through role plays and case discussions, the group explored the case management process—from identification to closure—and the vital role of gatekeepers (SCCOs, police, courts, and health professionals) in preventing unnecessary institutionalization.

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Guest Insights: Kikambala Rescue Centre’s Transition Success

A compelling presentation by William Mganga, founder of Kikambala Rescue Centre in Kilifi County, highlighted a successful transition into a government-approved rescue facility. The centre, now a model in the region, focuses on cases of gender-based violence and early marriage, operating within strict care timelines and robust community partnerships.

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Day 2: Deepening Our Understanding

The second day, led by Emmanuel Mugesani (NCCS), delved into:

• Transition Guidelines – including risk management and stakeholder preparation.

• Child Welfare Programmes (CWPs) – such as talent centres, wellness and counseling programs, and vocational training initiatives.

• CCI Renewal – the importance of maintaining updated records, proper exit strategies, and compliance with inspection protocols.

Participants expressed strong interest in CWPs as alternative, sustainable models to support children in community settings. The need for institutional strategic plans, stakeholder alignment, and readiness for transition report compilation was emphasized.

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Looking Ahead: LTC’s Commitment

Following the training, LTC and partner institutions committed to:

• Revising mission statements and strategic plans

• Conducting institutional needs assessments

• Engaging donors and partners in care reform conversations

• Strengthening coordination and capacity building

Homes were encouraged to learn from successful CWPs like Taji Centre in Thika East and Mango Tree in Homa Bay.

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Thank You to Our Partners

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to NCCS, the Sub-County Children Officers, and all our dedicated home staff who participated in this transformative event. Your commitment to safeguarding the rights and wellbeing of children through safe transitions and strengthened family care is the heart of LTC’s mission.

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📧 For more updates on our programs and training events, contact us at

info@liftthechildren.org