A holistic project by Islamic Relief has improved child protection in the Korogocho informal settlement in Nairobi, Kenya.
According to the government of Kenya (2009), Korogocho – which measures one and a half square miles – is home to up to 200,000 people, most of whom are under the age of 30. There is little formal structure; most residents built their own houses from debris or recycled materials and there is no sewage or water or lighting system.
Our training aimed to combat the growth of the most prominent problems facing children and the wider community – including unemployment, homelessness, alcoholism, substance abuse, domestic violence and prostitution.
Training and awareness
This project provided child protection awareness training to 2,000 children, 35 community leaders and 12 teachers. It also raised awareness through billboard and radio advertisements. Children at four schools learned about protection issues through debates, drama, art and sport – with the support of their teachers to whom we provided training.
Community and religious leaders are now collaborating to develop a community action plan for the long-term prioritisation of child protection. Islamic Relief also supported local community-based organisations by facilitating meetings with child protection specialists and networks. The project completed in 2013.