Nairobi: The National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) in Kenya is urging prompt investigation into the rising number of beggars flooding the country. The surge, believed to be fueled by individuals from neighboring nations, has become a significant concern.
According to Kenya News Agency, Mr. Isaac Rogito, Regional Director for NCPWD in the Rift Valley, reported that investigations by security agencies have unveiled a criminal syndicate linked to the East African Community (EAC). This network is responsible for trafficking children, forcing them into begging in urban areas to profit from the activity. Many of these children are tricked into believing they will earn substantial money from begging, only for the proceeds to be pocketed by traffickers.
During a session at the Rift Valley Regional Commissioner’s plenary hall, Mr. Rogito emphasized that the public should be aware that the money given to disabled beggars does not benefit them but rather the traffickers. He called for authorities to d
ismantle these syndicates and repatriate the foreign beggars humanely.
Ms. Josephine Mahinda, Project Coordinator of the Disability Resource Information Center (DRIC), highlighted the influx of beggars from countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Tanzania, Burundi, Zambia, and Uganda. She criticized the current situation, noting that it undermines governmental efforts to empower disabled citizens through programs like Access to Government Procurement Opportunities (AGPO).
Ms. Mahinda expressed that the influx has turned into a human trafficking issue, tarnishing the dignity of hardworking Kenyans with disabilities. She urged the nation to reject the exploitation of foreign disabled beggars by traffickers and revealed the shocking abuses faced by women and children involved in this trade.
A spot check by Kenya News Agency confirmed the presence of numerous child beggars with disabilities strategically placed along major streets in Nakuru. Many of these children suffer under harsh condit
ions, manipulated by handlers exploiting bureaucratic loopholes to keep them in the country. Ms. Mahinda explained the complex process required to repatriate these children, often funded by the Police Department but thwarted by repeated illegal entries.
Mr. Joab Odinga, a local tea vendor, observed the daily routine of beggars being brought to the streets and managed by unseen handlers. Kenya News Agency’s attempts to interview these beggars revealed the fear and control exerted over them.
Ms. Aadila, a 16-year-old beggar outside Nakuru Jamia Mosque, recounted her experience of being trafficked into Kenya under false promises of earning a substantial income. She shared the dire living conditions and abuse faced by child beggars failing to meet daily targets.
Former Nakuru civic leader, Mr. William Ating’a, reflected on the past efforts to integrate persons with disabilities into society, emphasizing the need for stricter enforcement of policies to prevent exploitation. He warned against misusing Kenya’s o
pen-border policies to facilitate criminal activities.
Cyrus Musera, a newspaper vendor, described how beggars are constantly monitored and relocated by young guides working for the traffickers. This manipulation ensures beggars remain visible and profitable on the streets.
