Nakuru County Coordinator for Children Affairs Sheikh Abdi Yusuf has expressed concern over the high rate of children being abandoned by their parents.
Yusuf said the number of parents absconding their duties is alarming, and the government will take tough action against such parents.
“Parents have relieved themselves of their parental roles and have exposed their children to suffering,” said Yusuf.
“Such parents are subject to criminal laws against abandonment, abuse, and neglect of children,” added Yusuf.
Speaking Friday after touring Rhoda Estate, Nakuru, Yusuf said absconding of duties by parents amounts to abuse of children and the parents risk being prosecuted.
“A number of children in Rhoda do not go to school in spite of the free education by the government and this infringes to their rights,” said Yusuf.
Yusuf said children are entitled all basic needs including education, health and moral support.
“Children have right to special protection and care in all sections of life from basic needs for food, universal state education, health care and moral support,” said Yusuf.
He urged parents to ensure their children enjoy their rights; civil, cultural, and social rights.
He also urged the county government to improve education and health facilities in the informal settlement to enable children access better services.