Kirinyaga: At least 4,400 households in Kirinyaga County have received about Sh9 million government support through the Child Welfare Cash Transfer Programme. The State Department for Children Services PS Carren Agengo stated that households hosting orphans and vulnerable children benefited from the government's cash transfer programme.

According to Kenya News Agency, Agengo mentioned that the government has so far disbursed a total of Sh8.8 million during the current financial year to help the targeted families meet their basic needs while ensuring vulnerable children remain in home-based care. Speaking during a citizen engagement forum held at Kianwe Primary school in Kirinyaga West Sub-County, the PS outlined key achievements and challenges faced in supporting vulnerable groups.

She highlighted that multiple state agencies were present at the forum to assist the public in understanding government operations and to address concerns affecting families and children. 'This platform allows us to listen to the people and address issues affecting children at the grassroots. Our goal is to strengthen families so that children grow up in safe and supportive environments,' she said.

Agengo noted that many children in Kirinyaga County have benefited from the Presidential Bursary Scheme, which has enabled learners from needy backgrounds to remain in school. She emphasized that education remains a key pillar in child protection, as it reduces exposure to social risks.

Kirinyaga County has 11 registered childcare institutions hosting 324 children, but institutional care remains a last resort, the PS added. The county has five sub-county children services offices working to safeguard children's rights and provide early intervention. 'We urge parents and community members to report child-related challenges early so that we can act before families break down,' she said.

Agengo identified alcoholism as the main factor pushing children into institutional care in the county. She reaffirmed the government's commitment to child protection, social support, and inclusive service delivery, emphasizing that safeguarding children is a shared responsibility requiring collaboration between the government and communities.

The PS thanked the Secretary to the Cabinet, Mercy Wanjau, for organizing the citizen engagement forum, noting that residents benefited from a wide range of government services offered on site.