Mombasa County Government has rolled out a coordinated effort to address the growing issue of street families and children, highlighting both security risks and humanitarian concerns. Officials say minors living on the streets face exploitation, while adults and youths encounter unsafe conditions that demand urgent intervention.
The initiative is led by County Executive Committee Member for Transport, Infrastructure, and Governance, Daniel Manyala, and involves the county government, Kenya Red Cross, Department of Children Services, county social services, the County Commissioner’s office, and the County Attorney.
“We are seeing more people sleeping on the streets and children running after vehicles. This situation is worsening and has become a security concern,” Manyala noted.
Nightly operations will target hotspots, particularly the Central Business District, with increased security presence. Officials stressed the focus is on rescue and rehabilitation rather than confrontation. Children rescued will be placed in government-approved homes or safe shelters, while adults and guardians will be guided to appropriate rehabilitation programs. The campaign aligns with Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir’s directive to safeguard the rights and welfare of vulnerable children in the county.
