BY SHABAN OMAR
A non-governmental organization Kids Care Kenya has unveiled a Community Advisory Board in Lunga-Lunga, Kwale County to tackle the pressing issues of child abuse, neglect, and underdevelopment that have plagued the area.
Children with disabilities, often suffer from limited access to essential services while the prevalence of teen pregnancies and marriages in the community has not only disrupted the education and growth of school girls but also deepened cycles of poverty and dependency.
The board will be responsible for conducting awareness campaigns on sensitive issues like gender-based violence, equal rights, and the importance of inclusivity for children with special needs.
Kids Care Kenya Executive Director George Baya said the initiative aims to enhance community resilience, especially in addressing the unique challenges faced by communities and families trapped in cycles of poverty.
He said the move is geared towards fostering a healthier and more inclusive environment where children and less fortunate communities can thrive.
“The advisory board will serve as a crucial liaison, communicating the community’s needs and challenges to policymakers, government and NGOs and advocating for resources that address their issues effectively,” he said.
The board comprises 15 members; local leaders and community representatives from various wards ensuring a collaborative approach that aligns with the community’s needs and cultural context.
The members bring a wealth of knowledge and experience in child protection, gender equality, and community development, which will be instrumental in creating sustainable change.
Baya said one of the board’s primary goals is to identify gaps and propose actionable solutions that can be adopted by both government and NGOs.
He said through the board they hope to encourage community-wide involvement in safeguarding children and supporting marginalized families and bring a sense of responsibility in running development projects for sustainability.
“We want to foster a sense of collective responsibility in running development projects so they remain sustainable and impactful over the long term,” he said.
Baya said that the board’s efforts are aimed not only at addressing immediate challenges but also at instilling a culture of accountability and proactive engagement within the community.
Lunga-Lunga Sub-County Administrator Ibrahim Ndegwa said the newly launched Community Advisory Board is integral in addressing pressing community issues and enhancing resilience and grassroots development.
Ndegwa said that the board’s localized approach would empower residents to actively participate in tackling social challenges particularly those affecting children with disabilities and vulnerable families.
He said the program would not only bring essential resources closer to the community but also promote sustainable development by building local capacity and encouraging self-reliance.
The board’s chairman, Bakari Chitsama said that board members have undergone extensive training in child rights protection and advocacy to equip them with the skills necessary to lead impactful change.
According to Chitsama, the board will play a pivotal role in raising awareness on critical issues such as child rights, gender-based violence, and the importance of inclusivity for children with disabilities.
“Our goal is to bring about a cultural shift in the community, where every child’s rights are respected and upheld, and women and girls can access equal opportunities,” he said.
Chitsama noted that despite progress, the community continues to struggle with traditional practices that hinder empowerment efforts.
He said that many families still hide children with disabilities, and outdated beliefs continue to undermine the empowerment of women.
Chitsama said the newly launched board would help break the barriers by challenging stigmas and advocating for an inclusive environment where all community members, especially the most vulnerable, feel supported and valued.
