Kwale launches 5-year programme to protect children from pregnancy and abuse
Thousands of children in Kwale County are set to benefit from a five-year programme targeting teenage pregnancies, forced marriages, sexual abuse and other forms of exploitation. The Tulinde Mtoto programme was launched at Waa Comprehensive Primary School in Matuga Sub-county on Sunday, October 4, 2026. It will initially cover about 20 schools in Matuga and […]
The Kwale County Government has launched a five-year program aimed at safeguarding children from teenage pregnancies, forced marriages, sexual abuse, and other forms of exploitation. The Tulinde Mtoto initiative was introduced at Waa Comprehensive Primary School in Matuga Sub-county on October 4, 2026. Initially, the program will target around 20 schools in Matuga and Msambweni, with plans to extend its reach to other parts of the county.
The World Health Organization-supported program is being implemented in collaboration with the Kwale County Government, under Governor Fatuma Achani, and other child protection agencies.
Dr. Charles Otwori, Head of Reproductive, Maternal, and Newborn Health Programme at the International Centre for Reproductive Health-Kenya (ICRHK), explained that the initiative will concentrate on preventing abuse, identifying vulnerable children, and connecting survivors to counseling and justice services. Otwori emphasized that the program incorporates affirmative measures to protect children, raise awareness among them, and sensitize the community about safeguarding their rights.
Samson Nyawa, Kwale Director of Youth, Talent Management, and Social Services, noted that teenage pregnancies and forced marriages remain a significant concern, particularly among girls. The program will also provide sanitary pads to vulnerable learners, as the lack of these products can expose some girls to exploitation when seeking assistance.
Kwale Principal Magistrate Rose Ombata highlighted that counseling and trauma support will be extended to children involved in sexual offense cases. She emphasized that trauma and fear can hinder some survivors from testifying in court, and the project aims to build confidence in witnesses, strengthening the prosecution of gender-based violence cases.
Kennedy Maina, Children's Officer, stated that the initiative will collaborate with existing child protection structures. Waa Comprehensive Primary School headteacher Amina Juma added that schools will help learners grasp their rights and report abuse. The program's introduction coincides with Kwale Governor Achani's administration continuing to oversee various county programs, including education, social services, and protection of vulnerable groups.
The policy framework of Kwale County also identifies sexual and gender-based violence and protection of girls and boys as social inclusion priorities. The first phase of the program will focus on the selected schools before the initiative is expanded across Kwale County.
Written by urgent.news from People Daily Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
