“Don’t Touch” Program Promotes Child Safety and Empowerment

 

A new child protection and empowerment initiative, the “Don’t Touch” Program, is helping children across Kenya learn about body safety, respect, and personal boundaries in a simple and age-appropriate way.

The program aims to equip children with the knowledge, language, and confidence to protect themselves from inappropriate behavior or abuse. Through stories, role-play, and open discussions, children are taught to identify safe and unsafe touches, to say “No” when they feel uncomfortable, and to report any threats or incidents to trusted adults.

Speaking about the initiative, teacher and child rights advocate Shokwei Barsulai said the program is designed to promote both awareness and action.

“Children must understand that their bodies belong to them and that it’s okay to say ‘No’ if someone crosses their boundaries,” said Barsulai. “Empowering children with this knowledge gives them confidence and protects them from harm.”

The Don’t Touch Program also engages parents, teachers, and community leaders, recognizing that child protection is a shared responsibility. It encourages adults to create safe spaces in schools and communities where children feel heard, protected, and respected.

Organizers say the program’s approach reflects the belief that prevention is protection, and that equipping children with information can help prevent abuse before it occurs.

“Our goal is to build a culture where every child grows up free from fear and surrounded by care and accountability,” Barsulai added.

The Don’t Touch Program continues to gain traction as more schools and communities embrace its message: every child deserves to grow up safe, confident, and respected.

Pamoja tuwalinde watoto wetu — together, let’s protect our children

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