MPs Raise Alarm Over Government’s Plan To Halt Child Welfare Funding

A parliamentary committee has warned that the government’s decision to withdraw funding from the Child Welfare Society of Kenya (CWSK) could lead to increased child trafficking, exploitation, and the displacement of over 3,000 children currently housed in safe shelters.

CWSK, which supports more than 700,000 vulnerable children across the country, raised concerns about the funding cut during a meeting to review the 2025/2026 Budget Policy Statement.

The society presented its case before the Social Protection Committee, chaired by Alice Ng’ang’a, emphasizing the devastating impact the move would have on child welfare.

Legislators engaged Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Dr. Alfred Mutua and other ministry officials, questioning the rationale behind the funding withdrawal.

The Committee highlighted CWSK’s critical role in rescuing orphans and abandoned children, supporting children with severe disabilities, operating safe houses, and facilitating adoption and foster care.

Dr. Mutua defended the decision, stating that it was aimed at addressing inefficiencies in resource utilization. However, he acknowledged the potential risks and assured MPs that discussions were ongoing to prevent the disruption of essential child welfare services.

His response did not satisfy lawmakers, who insisted that cutting funding to the organization would put vulnerable children at risk.

“We are talking about the welfare and protection of Kenyan children. What happens to them once the funding is halted?” asked Alice Ng’ang’a.

James Nyikal questioned whether the government had conducted an impact assessment to gauge the full consequences of the decision, while Hon. Susan Ngugi stressed the need to maintain funding.

“The Child Welfare Society of Kenya must continue to be funded,” she asserted.

Vice-Chairperson Hilary Kosgei warned that failing to support CWSK could have dire consequences, saying, “If you do not care about your own children, why should donors care?”