Kwale County has taken a major step in strengthening child safety with the launch of a Sh11 million Child Protection Centre aimed at supporting minors facing violence, exploitation, and other forms of abuse. The new one-stop facility, located within the Diani Police Station, was officially unveiled by Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Simon Chelugui, marking a significant intervention at a time when the region has raised concerns over increasing cases of sex tourism, child prostitution, teenage pregnancies, and early marriages along the coast.
The centre, constructed by Plan International Kenya, brings together key government agencies, law enforcement, and child welfare organizations under one roof to streamline protection services. The launch was attended by senior leaders including Kwale Governor Salim Mvurya, Chief Administrative Secretary Patrick Ole Ntutu, Plan International Country Director Kate Maina-Vorley, and County Commissioner Joseph Kanyiri. During the ceremony, Chelugui emphasized that the facility will improve the tracking and prosecution of child-related crimes while providing survivors with timely medical care, psychosocial support, and a safe environment away from adult offenders. He noted that the centre is especially vital during the COVID-19 era, as it allows child suspects and victims to be handled in compliance with Ministry of Health guidelines.
Local leaders welcomed the initiative, saying it comes at a critical time in protecting the county’s young population. Governor Mvurya urged parents and community members to remain vigilant, stressing that children are the future heritage of the county and require safeguarding to fulfil their potential. Officials highlighted that Kwale is one of the regions where child abuse often goes unreported due to stigma and lack of accessible support services. The new centre—one of 23 such facilities in Kenya—seeks to bridge that gap by ensuring all child-related cases are handled professionally, confidentially, and in a child-friendly environment.
Looking ahead, the government expressed hope that the Children’s Bill, currently in its final stages, will strengthen the legal foundation for similar centres across the country and attract additional support from both the state and civil society. Chelugui reiterated that expanding child protection infrastructure is key to nurturing a generation capable of driving Kenya’s development agenda. With community involvement, enhanced policing, and continued investment in welfare services, officials believe Kwale is now better positioned to curb child exploitation and promote justice for vulnerable minors.