Significant strides have been taken in the ongoing project to revamp the Thika Children’s Rescue Centre, thanks to the allocation of funds by the State Department for Social Protection.
During a recent visit to inspect the progress of the renovations, Joseph Motari, the Principal Secretary of the State Department of Social Protection, emphasized that the primary objective of the project is to create a more comfortable and child-friendly environment for the over 800 neglected and orphaned children residing in the facility.
Motari acknowledged that the state of neglect the home had experienced in the past was not the fault of the institution’s management but rather a result of insufficient funding. He assured that the government is taking charge of the renovation process to ensure the children have a safe and wonderful place to call home.
The Principal Secretary further highlighted the government’s commitment to advancing social protection for all Kenyans, with a particular focus on vulnerable and marginalized groups, including children and the elderly. The teachers and management at the rescue center were praised for their commendable efforts despite facing financial difficulties.
To improve security, plans are underway to construct a perimeter wall around the institution. Additionally, the renovation project includes repainting the facility and repairing roofs, classrooms and damaged furniture. Water tanks will be installed to maintain high standards of hygiene.
Moreover, the government intends to establish a public rehabilitation center on the premises, catering to youth struggling with substance abuse issues. This move comes as the existing rehabilitation centers in the area are privately owned and financially burdensome for the rescue center.
Expressing gratitude for the support, Wycliffe Watibini, the center manager, applauded the initiative, stating that the renovation was long overdue. The extensive 25-acre facility will now undergo significant improvements that were previously unattainable due to resource constraints.
This renovation project aligns with the government’s social protection agenda, aiming to provide all Kenyans with dignified living conditions and opportunities for personal development and economic growth.