Mombasa, Mombasa County – Residents of Mombasa with cases related to children’s rights violations are being encouraged to present evidence during the National Children Service month. The initiative, aimed at addressing and fast-tracking children’s cases, was launched by High Court of Kenya-Family Division Judge Gregory Mutai at the Tononoka Law Courts.
According to Kenya News Agency, the judiciary is committed to resolving all cases involving children throughout November. He emphasized the judiciary’s strategic focus on transforming the justice system to prioritize the needs and well-being of Kenyan citizens, especially children. “November is a very special month for us in the Judiciary,” Mutai stated, referencing the declaration by Chief Justice and President of the Supreme Court Martha Koome, who designated November as the National Children Service Month across all court stations.
The theme of this year’s event, ‘A child-centred justice system,’ emphasizes placing the victim at the center of proceedings, ensuring their needs and well-being are given paramount importance. This approach aligns with the Social Transformation through Access Justice (STAJ) vision of the Chief Justice, which highlights the provision of justice for marginalized and vulnerable individuals.
Justice Mutai also discussed the judiciary’s goal of creating a more inclusive justice system that upholds the dignity and rights of all Kenyans, with a particular focus on victims of child abuse. He called on stakeholders in children’s welfare to collaborate closely with the judiciary to assist in administering justice for children whose rights have been infringed upon.
He acknowledged challenges in clearing children’s cases within the statutory limit of three months, citing the school calendar as a significant impediment. To address this, alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, such as court-annexed mediation and diversion in criminal cases, will be employed in collaboration with the Office of Director of Public Prosecution (ODPP).
Senior Member on Children Affairs Topister Juma noted the close collaboration between children’s offices, courts, and parents to sensitize them to seek justice for their violated children. However, Juma highlighted the challenge of underreporting in such cases, stressing the need for increased awareness about addressing injustice in children. She urged individuals with pending cases to come forward and present evidence during this dedicated month.