In recent years, the escalating number of physically challenged children in Juja, Kiambu County, has raised alarm among activists.
Reports suggest that these children have been smuggled from neighboring countries and left abandoned on the streets, where they are coerced into working as beggars.
Dr. Marion Karimi, who operates a rescue and rehabilitation center for disabled children in Juja, has expressed the urgent need for intervention to rehabilitate these children and provide them with educational opportunities.
She stated, “Our work is to rehabilitate those who are rescued after being abandoned and then reintegrate them with their families. However, we’ve noted with concern that the number of children is increasing at alarming levels. The government should intervene.”
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During a thanksgiving ceremony at the World Wide Ministries Church in Theta ward, where she received an honorary degree for her 17-year service to disabled children in the country, Dr. Karimi noted the silent suffering of physically handicapped children.
She said, “There’s help out here for disabled kids and their parents, there are NGOs and the government that are ready and willing to help rehabilitate and educate the kids. There are opportunities to help the children grow and even realize their dreams because they too have talents and dreams.”
Rev. Francis Muhia echoed Dr. Karimi’s sentiments, urging parents not to hide their disabled children. He called on the government to intervene and said, “We must embrace them and accord them the necessary support.”
He also highlighted the need for interventions to facilitate the education of handicapped children, as there are limited schools that cater to their needs and the existing ones are too costly.
Aaron Gachanja, a staff member at the rescue center, emphasized the importance of embracing disabled children and their families. He stated, “They believe that having a disabled kid is a curse and this is why most of them abandon them in hospitals, streets, or even lock them up in their homes. We must embrace them and accord them the necessary support.”
While an anonymous children’s officer in Juja subcounty confirmed that the matter is currently under investigation to identify those responsible for bringing the children to the town, efforts are being made to provide immediate assistance to the rescued children. The officer said, “Those rescued are usually taken to the rescue home for help as we establish their families for a reunion.”
Read also: GBV: Boy Child Neglected in the Cold Streets
The plight of these abandoned disabled children in Juja underscores the urgent need for comprehensive measures, including awareness campaigns, the establishment of rehabilitation centers, and accessible education for disabled children. It is a collective responsibility to ensure their well-being and create a society that embraces and supports every individual, regardless of their abilities.
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