National Census on Street Families Set for June in Major Rehabilitation Push

 

By Gilbert Mmbaya

The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection will, in collaboration with the Street Families Rehabilitation Trust Fund (SFRTF), conduct a nationwide census of street families from June 29, in an effort aimed at informing a comprehensive rehabilitation strategy.

The three-day exercise, which will be carried out across all 47 counties, is expected to see a significant rise in the recorded number of street families—up from the last national count in 2018, which put the figure at 46,000.

According to Mary Wambui, Chairperson of the Street Families Rehabilitation Trust Fund, the census—estimated to cost KSh 50 million—will help the government assess the current situation and formulate targeted interventions.

"The census will also provide the government with a proper plan to address rehabilitation, noting that the current funds are inadequate," Wambui said.

Despite financial constraints, Wambui praised ongoing government efforts in rehabilitating and reintegrating street families into society.

"Though the funds are not adequate, we are grateful for the work being done to rehabilitate street families and reintegrate them back into the community," she added.

Wambui also revealed that the Trust Fund has secured 20 acres of land to establish a dedicated rehabilitation center.

Board member Ahmed Hussein noted that the census will be critical in tracking progress made so far.

“The census will show the strides taken in rehabilitation and help reduce the number of street families in the long term,” Hussein said.

He disclosed that KSh 50 million has already been disbursed to 24 institutions currently involved in rehabilitation programs across 24 counties, with plans to expand nationwide.

Nancy Orango, another board member, reaffirmed the commitment to the initiative and applauded key support from the Ministry of Interior.

“We’ve secured KSh 50 million for this crucial national census, and we are grateful to the Ministry of Interior for helping street families obtain birth certificates and national ID cards,” she said.

However, board member John Kiriria raised concerns over inadequate funding.

“Despite the growing financial needs, the funding remains insufficient. We urge the government to increase allocations to meet the rising number of street families,” Kiriria said.

He attributed the increase in street families to worsening economic conditions and a spillover of families from neighboring counties—an issue that has persisted since the COVID-19 pandemic.

June 12, 2025