Members of the County Assembly’s Education Committee and House Leadership participated in a sensitization workshop on the Draft Lamu County Child Protection Policy held on Friday, 31st October 2025, at Malindi Pearl Hotel.
The workshop, convened by the County Government of Lamu in collaboration with the Frontier Counties Development Council (FCDC) and Aga Khan University Institute for Human Development, aimed to gather input from county leaders to strengthen the policy before adoption.
Director for Children Services, Mr. Juma Boga, noted that although national laws exist to protect children, Lamu County faces unique challenges that require a localized approach. “This policy reflects our county’s environment, resources, and social context, ensuring children’s protection is practical and relevant to Lamu,” he said.
Clerk to the County Assembly, Mr. Ali Godana, emphasized the need for interdepartmental collaboration and community involvement, adding that policies must translate into real action. “We should not shy away from the realities of child abuse in our communities. This policy gives us direction, but implementation and cooperation across sectors will make the real difference,” he stated.
Key policy focus areas include healthcare, parental responsibility, education access, family support, psychological care, protection from online and sexual abuse, prevention of drug use and harmful practices, and promoting moral values.
Participants further recommended the creation of a county liaison office for children, increased budget allocation for welfare programs, establishment of safe shelters, teacher and parent training, stronger stakeholder collaboration, and promotion of positive parenting.
Governor H.E. Issa Timamy reaffirmed the county’s commitment to advancing the welfare of children and ensuring the new policy provides a lasting framework for protection and empowerment.