By Andrew Kariuki
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has launched the Guide to Child-Friendly Interviewing, a new manual aimed at improving how children are handled within Kenya’s criminal justice system.
The guide is intended to strengthen the protection, dignity, and meaningful participation of children who come into contact with the justice process, whether as victims, witnesses, or persons in need of protection.
Speaking during the launch, Witness Protection Agency (WPA) Director Jedida Waruhiu said the guide promotes safer and more supportive interview environments for children, noting that children are more likely to give accurate and reliable information when they feel secure and understood.
She said the approach aligns with the agency’s mandate of safeguarding witnesses and ensuring cooperation without fear or intimidation.
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) also welcomed the initiative, with its representative stressing the importance of professional ethics and continuous training for legal practitioners.
The society noted that the guide provides practical direction for advocates and prosecutors on how to balance legal procedure with compassion when handling child-related cases.
The manual was developed with the support of Lawyers Without Borders and will be rolled out nationally through capacity-building programmes targeting prosecutors, investigators, and child protection officers.
The training is expected to support the consistent application of child-centred justice practices across the country.
