Eugine Wabwile 
Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture, and Social Services Hannah Cheptumo has called for improved welfare and infrastructure at the Kakamega Children’s Remand Home following her visit to the facility.
BY MICHAEL SIFUNA
Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture, and Social Services Hannah Cheptumo has called for improved welfare and infrastructure at the Kakamega Children’s Remand Home following her visit to the facility.The remand home currently houses 28 children, including four girls and twenty-four boys, who were detained after appearing in court. Cheptumo inspected the living conditions and emphasized the need to guarantee access to education and healthcare, noting that children in conflict with the law should enjoy the same rights as others across the country.
She highlighted challenges such as inadequate housing and high electricity costs, recommending investment in agriculture and the adoption of renewable energy sources like solar power to ease operational expenses. Cheptumo stressed that such visits help policymakers understand realities on the ground and make informed budgetary decisions that safeguard children’s welfare.
Concerns were also raised about legal compliance, with reports indicating that some children had been held beyond the six-month limit set by law. The Cabinet Secretary underscored the importance of reviewing enforcement to protect children’s rights.
Lawmakers accompanying her noted progress since the elevation of the Department of Children’s Services but urged for more resources to ensure quality care nationwide. Cheptumo concluded by affirming that issues affecting children must remain a priority in government planning and policy.
