The Safe Engage Foundation has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering children as active agents of change within their communities, marking five years of transformative work through its flagship initiative Arts for Child Protection.
Speaking during a colourful celebration held in Kuria, Christine Alfonce, the Foundation’s Director, said the programme has, over the years, provided safe spaces where children can freely express themselves, build confidence and shape their own aspirations.
“For the past five years, Arts for Child Protection has been more than a platform for creativity, it’s been a lifeline for self-expression and personal growth. Some of the most transformative moments we’ve witnessed come from children influencing their parents to abandon harmful practices,” said Ms. Alfonce.
She commended parents who have embraced the ideas and perspectives shared by their children, noting that such openness remains rare in many communities.
“We applaud parents who listen to their children and take their voices seriously. That openness is a quiet revolution that transforms families and, by extension, communities,” she added.
The Foundation’s approach blends art, mentorship and community engagement to address issues of child abuse, neglect and exploitation.
Through a vast network of mentors and village volunteers, the initiative has strengthened local child protection and reporting systems.
Children are now more willing to report threats, including planned Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) cases, which has led to timely interventions and rescues.
Over the past four years, Arts for Child Protection has documented a marked decline in cases of FGM, child marriage and teenage pregnancies within its areas of operation. The Foundation attributes this progress to increased community education and awareness campaigns.
Joice Keno, the Children’s Officer for Kuria West, lauded the Foundation for bridging the gap between children and protection services.
“Safe Engage Foundation has redefined how communities view child protection. Children now know their rights and parents are learning that discipline should never come at the cost of dignity or safety,” said Ms. Keno.
Gracing the event, Joseph Mahiri, the Deputy Governor of Migori County, praised the Foundation’s efforts and called on both levels of government to invest more in awareness and empowerment programmes that prioritize girls’ education.
“The government must channel more resources into community education and empowerment initiatives that keep girls in school. Once girls are educated and empowered, they break free from cycles of poverty and harmful cultural practices,” said Mr. Mahiri.
He emphasized that sustainable change would only come from a combination of grassroots initiatives and government support.
Beyond the fight against FGM and early marriage, the Foundation also raised alarm over the growing concern of child labour, particularly in mining zones across the region. The Foundation urged state agencies to act decisively against individuals and networks exploiting children.
“No child should have to choose between survival and schooling,” said Sha Givens, Executive Director of I Can Fly High School, one of the partner institutions. “Child labour strips away innocence and dreams and we must all stand firm against it.”
As Safe Engage Foundation celebrated five years of impact, the atmosphere was one of pride and renewed commitment. Community leaders, teachers and parents joined in reflecting on the journey of transforming vulnerable children into confident, creative, and empowered voices for change.
“We are not just protecting children,” concluded Ms. Alfonce. “We are helping them become leaders who will reshape the future of their communities.”
