Families across Kenya are grappling with missing children cases, as gaps in child protection systems come under scrutiny. 17-year-old Ramsy Karani disappeared from his home in Nairobi's Kayole estate, prompting his mother Doris Kamathi to plead for his return.

According to Kenya's Child Protection Information Management System (CPIMS), 10,581 child protection cases were recorded between January 2025 and March 2026, including 1,636 missing children, 1,952 abductions, 6,820 abandonment cases, and 173 trafficking incidents. Child welfare groups say these figures highlight vulnerabilities.

In Sinendet village, Nakuru County, 12-year-old Mercy Nyambura Mureithi vanished while walking home from school in May. Her body was later found, shocking the community. Local chief Kiaraho Mwangi said the case spurred renewed discussions on child supervision.

George Onyango, founder of Promise Giving Children's Home, stressed that children under 17 should never be left alone. Advocates argue that while Kenya has legal frameworks, implementation is uneven due to limited resources and delayed reporting.

Bishop John Waunga criticized authorities for inadequate response, calling for the death penalty for child kidnappers. Media personality Janet Mbugua labeled the issue a national emergency, noting that 17 to 24 children go missing daily according to Missing Child Kenya.

Police spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga denied a surge, claiming social media amplifies old and fake reports. Police data shows 139 missing children cases in 2026, down from 754 in 2025 and 1,276 in 2024. However, families like the Karanis remain in anguish, with Kamathi saying, 'Our children deserve to be safe.'

Source: www.dw.com