By Phyllis Mwende
The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Renson Ingonga, held a consultative meeting with Bungoma Governor Ken Lusaka to fast-track the operationalization of a children’s rescue centre in the county.
The meeting, held at the Bungoma County Headquarters, brought together officials from the Office of the DPP, the county government, judiciary, police and child protection agencies.
DPP Ingonga underscored the importance of establishing a proper support system for vulnerable children, especially those facing abuse, neglect or legal trouble.
“The rescue centre will not only provide immediate shelter but also access to legal aid, counselling and rehabilitation services,” Ingonga stated.
Governor Lusaka expressed full support for the initiative, revealing that a structure had already been constructed using funds from the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF).
“The structure was constructed with the intention of establishing a rescue centre. Unfortunately, it was converted into the office of the Woman Representative, which was not the intended use,” Lusaka said.
He reaffirmed the county’s commitment to restoring the facility to its original purpose.
“Our children deserve a safe and supportive space to rebuild their lives,” he noted.
“We are committed to working together to bring this project to fruition,” he added.
Bungoma Presiding Judge, Lady Justice Rose Ougo, raised concerns about the current handling of children in conflict with the law.
“Transporting children to Kakamega is not only costly but causes significant delays in the hearing and determination of cases. It compromises both access to justice and the wellbeing of the children.” Justice Ougo remarked.
Once operational, the rescue centre is expected to serve children from Bungoma and neighbouring counties in line with national child protection standards.
The DPP’s visit highlighted the growing importance of inter-agency collaboration in addressing child protection issues across the country.