Conflicts in various families in Nakuru have continued to affect children with those finding refuge in the streets having to cope with the harsh weather conditions.

The street children menace has been a great challenge in Nakuru county since the defunct Municipal Council of Nakuru to the three county governments that have been in place since the inception of devolution.

Despite Nakuru having over 80 children homes, there is still a challenge when addressing the issues of vulnerable children.

Read: Shujaa: Nakuru police officer with a heart for street families, GBV victims and PWDs

Perhaps a reason for Nakuru residents to be sensitized on matters child adoption that can also play a role in ensuring these children are in safe families.

Mtaa Wangu had an opportunity to attend a training forum for Managers of Charitable Children Institutions where the issue of child adoption came up.

Faith Koila is a Nakuru-based Advocate of the High Court of Kenya working with National Legal Aid Service Department under the office of the Attorney General.

She says the adoption process can help address challenges that have always left children in vulnerable state.

According to her, the process involves permanently vesting the parental rights and responsibilities relating to a child in the adopter.

This, she points out that it is done in accordance with the Constitution and the Children’s Act 2022 as well as the international treaties that Kenya is part of.

"In all this process, the best interests of the child are given priority," she says.

Also Read: Mama Street Kids: Lady Who Brings Homecooked Food to Street Children at Lions Garden

Children who qualify to be adopted as per the law include orphans with no guardian or caregiver, abandoned child or whose parents’ or guardian’s whereabouts cannot be traced within a period of one year and child offered for adoption by their biological parents in accordance with regulations.

The Children Act 2022, provides that either a sole applicant or two spouses jointly may make an application for adoption.

An adoption order is then issued by court after ascertaining compliance.

But did you know that if you are of unsound mind, or convicted by court you cannot be allowed to adopt a child? Well now you know.

Related: How street families in Nakuru continue to suffer in the name of 'cleaning-up' the city

Michael Sasi- an officer with Nakuru County Charitable Childcare Institution says if citizens can embrace the adoption process, then it can be a solution to even the street children menace.

pmambili@gmail.com

The role of adoption in ending Nakuru's street families menace

Author Spotlight

Pristone Mambili