Children in Need of Care and Protection-Analysis of Prevalence of Cases in Machakos County (2024)

Abstract

The protection and care of children is a fundamental right enshrined in international and national legal frameworks. Despite Kenya’s ratification of multiple child protection laws and policies, children in need of care and protection (CNCP) remain a significant concern. This study analyzes the prevalence and categories of reported CNCP cases in Machakos County, Kenya, using secondary administrative data extracted from the Child Protection Information Management System (CPIMS) maintained by the Department of Children Services. The objectives of the study were to: determine the prevalence of reported cases of children in need of care and protection in Machakos County; assess the distribution of CNCP cases across Machakos sub-counties; examine the distribution of CNCP cases by age group; and evaluate intervention mechanisms employed in addressing CNCP cases in the county. Findings from 2024 CPIMS records indicate that child neglect was the most prevalent category, accounting for 47.1% of reported cases. Higher case concentrations were recorded in Mwala, Kangundo, and Matungulu sub-counties, while the majority of affected children were below 15 years of age. Intervention responses varied by case type, with joint parental agreements being the most frequently documented mechanism, alongside referrals to the Judiciary, the Department of Children Services, and community-based reconciliation. However, a substantial number of cases lacked documented intervention actions, highlighting gaps in case management and accountability. The study underscores the need for strengthened child-centered interventions, improved CPIMS documentation, and coordinated, community-based child protection responses in Machakos County.