Nairobi estates step up child safety measures amid rising missing children cases

A number of parents in Nairobi are intentionally working together to strengthen child safety measures in their neighbourhoods.

Parents and guardians are actively working with resident associations, other families, and estate management committees in specific neighbourhoods – or courts – to enhance security at home and in the estates.

This comes amid reports of rising number of cases of missing children in Nairobi in recent months.

Reports indicate that residential estates in Nairobi are adopting community-led initiatives, including installation of CCTVs, enhanced guest screening and child identification programmes.

Others have introduced WhatsApp emergency groups and close communication to ensure quick response to alerts.

"Child safety cannot be left to individual parents or families, and that is why we are working together as parents," said Terrence Oloo, chairperson of a residents' association in Embakasi.

"As a community, we have noted that whenever people work closely together, any suspicious activity is picked faster and children are protected."

Some parents are taking time to educate their children on safety.

David Ombasa, a father of two living in Nairobi, said he takes time to talk to his children about safety – and how to deal with strangers who may want to lure them with sweets or small gifts.

"As parents and community, we have intentionally become more involved in the lives of our young children, constantly asking about their ware bouts especially when they are out playing," said Ombasa.

He notes that parents are becoming more intentional with the house help they bring to their homes, and work expectations, especially as regards children safety.

Vivian Wanja, a mother of four, notes that it's the responsibility of parents and the community at large, to keep children safe.

"Technology helps, but active parents, alert neighbours and organised estate associations remain the first line of defence," she said.