By Peter John
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), through its Children’s Division, has partnered with Pendekezo Letu to engage street-connected boys in a community outreach programme focused on access to justice and child protection.
The forum was held at the Made in the Streets safe house in Kiambio and brought together vulnerable boys living and working on the streets.
The engagement aimed to create awareness about children’s rights and the available pathways for seeking justice.
During the session, facilitators explained how children can report abuse, violence, or exploitation, and outlined the role of prosecutors in safeguarding the rights of minors within the justice system.
Emphasis was placed on child-friendly procedures and the protection measures in place for children who come into contact with the law or those in need of care and protection.
ODPP officials reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that all children are treated fairly and with dignity, regardless of their background or circumstances.
They stressed that the justice system has a responsibility to protect children, not punish vulnerability, and encouraged the boys to speak up whenever their rights are violated.
Pendekezo Letu, a civil society organisation working with street-connected children, underscored the importance of rehabilitation, psychosocial support, and long-term reintegration.
The organisation highlighted that access to justice must go hand in hand with emotional support and opportunities for healing, education, and reintegration into the community.
The interactive session provided a safe space for the boys to ask questions, share personal experiences, and receive practical guidance on where and how to seek help.
Discussions focused on real-life challenges faced on the streets, including violence, exploitation, and encounters with law enforcement.
Both ODPP and Pendekezo Letu committed to strengthening their collaboration and expanding similar community forums.
