A renewed push to protect vulnerable and street-connected children has taken shape in Thika as stakeholders intensify community-based interventions aimed at addressing rising risks faced by minors during the ongoing school holiday period.
Action for Children in Conflict (AFCiC) and the Thika District Business Association (TDBA), together with corporate partners including Newsline Media, Del Monte, Thika Cloth Mills, Advocate Wanjiru Mwangi, 3T, Faytech, Mac Dental, Best Budget and Hawkers Pride.
The event, held at St. Patrick’s Primary School grounds, featured a football tournament, mentorship sessions and a donation drive focused on providing food, clothing and sports equipment to children identified as being at risk.
At least eight teams took part in the tournament, drawing strong community participation from residents, youth groups and local leaders.
AFCiC Director John Muiruri said the initiative is part of a broader protection strategy responding to increased exposure of children to exploitation, drug abuse and neglect during school closures.
He noted that the programme combines sport, mentorship and basic support as a holistic approach to child protection at the community level.
“We are seeing many children become vulnerable during holidays. Our focus is to ensure they remain engaged, protected and supported within their communities,” he said.
Muiruri added that AFCiC is expanding similar interventions across Kiambu County and neighbouring regions as part of ongoing child welfare programming.
Corporate partners backed the initiative through donations and logistical support, strengthening its capacity to reach more children in informal settlements.
The Thika District Business Association said the programme aligns with broader efforts to strengthen social protection systems through private sector involvement.
Local leaders who attended the event called for sustained community collaboration to prevent children from falling into unsafe environments during school breaks.
Organisers said the outreach will continue through the holiday period with additional activities planned in different locations across Thika.
