The Street Families Trust Fund has announced the launch of the National Policy on the Rehabilitation of Street Families. Speaking at the launch, the Trust Fund's Chief Executive Officer, Carol Toet, emphasized that the policy offers a comprehensive and sustainable framework to address the rehabilitation needs of street families across the country.

Comprehensive Framework for Rehabilitation

The newly introduced policy is designed to provide a structured approach to the rehabilitation of street families, ensuring that their diverse needs are met in a holistic manner. Carol Toet highlighted the significance of this policy, stating, "This policy is a milestone in our efforts to provide long-term solutions for street families. It addresses various aspects, including housing, education, healthcare, and social integration."

Historical Context and Current Statistics

A national census conducted in 2018 revealed that there were approximately 46,000 street families in the country. These families are comprised of children, the elderly, and youth, each group facing unique challenges. The census indicated that Nairobi alone had about 15,000 street children, with significant numbers also reported in other major cities such as Eldoret, Nakuru, Mombasa, and Kakamega.

The surge in street families has been attributed to several factors, including economic hardships and natural calamities. Recent floods, for example, have displaced many individuals, forcing them to seek refuge on the streets. "Due to economic difficulties and natural disasters like the recent floods, more people are ending up on the streets," Toet explained.

A Collective Responsibility

Addressing the issue of street families requires collective action from various stakeholders, not just the national government. Carol Toet stressed the importance of community involvement, noting that the rehabilitation process begins at the family level and extends to county and national governments. "Action cannot only be taken by the national government. It involves all of us—not just county governments, but families as well. It starts at the family level and escalates to county and national levels," she stated.

Call to Action

The launch of this policy marks a significant step towards improving the lives of street families. It is a call to action for all sectors of society to come together and support the rehabilitation efforts. By working collaboratively, it is possible to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for those who have been forced to live on the streets.

As we move forward, it is crucial to remember that the responsibility of addressing the plight of street families lies with everyone. The success of this policy will depend on the active participation and cooperation of communities, local authorities, and the national government.

Conclusion

With the launch of the National Policy on the Rehabilitation of Street Families, the Street Families Trust Fund has laid the foundation for a concerted effort to tackle this pressing issue. It is now up to all of us to contribute towards creating a better future for street families, ensuring that they have the opportunity to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.

Stay tuned for more details on Citizen News in brief this Friday, as we continue to cover the developments and implications of this important policy initiative.