Mombasa rolls out initiative to rescue families on streets, vulnerable youths

Mombasa County Executive Committee Member for Transport, Daniel Manyala and HIS counterpart Jonathan Wepukhulu, CEC in charge of children, gender, and social services, address the media during a press briefing on Tuesday, announcing the rollout of a joint multi-agency operation to rescue street families and vulnerable youths in Mombasa. Photo/JOHN CHESOLI

The Mombasa County Government has launched a coordinated multi-agency operation targeting the growing number of street families and vulnerable youths.

Officials have termed the situation both a humanitarian concern and a rising security issue.

Transport executive Daniel Manyala said the intervention brings together the county government, the office of the county commissioner, Kenya Red Cross, the department of Children Services, county social services and the office of the county attorney.

He spoke during a press briefing on Tuesday.

Manyala noted an alarming increase in the number of children on the streets, some of whom are seen chasing vehicles, warning that the situation is rapidly worsening.

“We are seeing more people sleeping on the streets and children running after vehicles. This situation is getting worse and has now become a security concern,” he said.

The operation will involve nightly patrols, particularly within the Central Business District, backed by a heightened security presence.

Authorities emphasised that the approach is centred on rescue and rehabilitation, not enforcement.

“You should expect increased security, especially at night. We are not going to fight people; we are going to rescue them,” Manyala added.

Under the programme, children will be placed in approved children’s homes and safe shelters, while adults and guardians will be separated and referred to appropriate rehabilitation and support services.

Officials warned that many minors on the streets are exposed to abuse and exploitation.

The initiative follows a directive by Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, who has prioritised the protection and welfare of vulnerable children in the county.

Deputy county commissioner Mary Mburu said security agencies will collaborate closely with county teams to restore order while safeguarding human rights.

“We will work together to ensure these children and families get environments where they can live and enjoy their rights like all other children,” she said.

County officials also pointed to Mombasa’s culture of generosity as a contributing factor to the growing numbers, especially during periods such as Ramadan, when alms-giving increases.

Jonathan Wepukhulu, in charge of children, gender and social services, called for a more structured approach to public support.

“Mombasa is generous, but uncontrolled giving has contributed to the problem. We want structured support that restores dignity,” he said.

As part of the long-term plan, the county will establish the Mombasa Street Families Trust Fund to streamline donations and support rehabilitation efforts. Rescued youths will also be enrolled in Governor Nassir’s “Ujuzi Mitaani” programme to access vocational training and reintegration opportunities.

The task force is expected to submit further recommendations to the governor, including the possible establishment of a dedicated Children Rescue Centre.

Residents have been urged to stop giving directly to individuals on the streets and instead channel assistance through formal mechanisms.

Authorities warned that anyone obstructing the operation or engaging in unlawful activities will face legal action.

The exercise is already underway, with a focus on night operations when street activity peaks.

 Officials say the month-long intervention aims to restore dignity to affected individuals while reclaiming public spaces.