Shine A Light on Child Abuse in Kenya

The year 2021 was successful for Childline Kenya because of the immense support of the GlobalGiving community. Our selection as Project of the Month February 2021 was one of our highlights. We send our big hugs of appreciation your way for believing in us and also for supporting us through this worthwhile journey throughout the year in child protection. In total, we were able to respond to the plight of 22,401 children with different concerns as follows:

1,737 had been abused or violated

467 needed counseling for various mental health concerns

12,731 required specific and general information on child protection and keeping children safe.

Below is a story of one of the children who benefited from our work:

On completing her primary education, Betty* (not her real name), a 15 year old girl, went to live in a different town with a family friend who was in her mid-twenties. This friend exposed Betty to pornographic content which was largely available on her phone and computer. Over time, she went further to open a Facebook account for Betty, and coached her on the kind of sexually explicit photos and videos – semi nudes and in tight dresses – she could post to attract men online, and with it some earnings. Betty lived with the friend for several weeks and actively participated in the "new trade" which she sadly got addicted to. This went on for a long time. One time, Betty innocently spoke about her activities on Facebook to a neighbour who was terrified and decided to raise alarm through Childline Kenya. The case was investigated and Betty promptly rescued and is receiving regular counselling provided by a Childline Kenya therapist. Meanwhile her "friend" was arrested and the case is ongoing in court. Betty is now on the road to recovery despite the fact that the process is slower as she had already gotten addicted to pornographic material and related activity and the cash that came with it. Chilldine is committed to walk this difficult journey with Betty until she is well again to enjoy her childhood.

On Betty's behalf and all children who benefit from our work and on behalf of the team at Childline Kenya, I say thank you very much to our GlobalGiving partners for keeping our work relevant to Shine A Light on Child Abuse in Kenya. We look forward to an even greater year 2022 with your support.