Call for Urgent Reforms in Child Protection as Child Violence Escalates

The Commission (NGEC) has called for immediate reforms in child protection systems following the murder of seven-year-old Tamara Blessing Kabura in Nyeri County. Speaking during a follow-up mission in Nyeri on Wednesday, NGEC Commissioner Dr. Margaret Karungaru said the incident revealed glaring gaps in the protection of children, particularly in informal settlements and low-income areas.

“This case is not just about one suspect. It is about a system that failed to protect a child. There is urgent need for stronger local-level child protection structures that are proactive, not reactive,” said Dr. Karungaru. The Commission’s visit comes a week after Tamara’s body was discovered buried in the home of a man identified as a casual labourer. The suspect is in police custody and is expected to be arraigned on June 10.

Dr. Karungaru held meetings with Nyeri Deputy Governor David Kinaniri, law enforcement officials, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), and the County Children’s Department.

She said NGEC was closely monitoring the progress of investigations and would remain engaged until justice is delivered.

“We are here to ensure that investigations are handled professionally, transparently, and with urgency. NGEC will continue to engage the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, IPOA and other agencies involved to make sure justice is served,” she added.

The Commission is also assessing the support being provided to Tamara’s family. Dr. Karungaru noted that psychosocial assistance is essential and must be made available immediately and in the long term.

Under Article 59(1)(c) of the Constitution and the Children Act, 2022, NGEC has a statutory mandate to promote and protect the rights of children and other vulnerable groups. The Commission’s presence in Nyeri is part of its duty to advise, monitor, and intervene in cases involving violation of rights.

“We will not be silent when children are being killed or abused. Our message is clear—child protection is a legal obligation, not a favour,” said Dr. Karungaru. NGEC is preparing a set of recommendations aimed at strengthening locallevel mechanisms to protect children, including improved coordination between the police, the judiciary, the county government and child protection officers.

The Commission said it will also follow up with national and county stakeholders to ensure implementation of reforms and sustained attention to rising cases of violence against children.

Tamara’s killing has triggered widespread public outrage and renewed scrutiny of child safety measures. Residents of Witemere, where the suspect lived, told the Commission they felt unsafe and neglected by the system. “This case is a wake-up call,” said Dr. Karungaru. “It must not be buried with Tamara.”

Commssioner Dr. Maragare Karungaru, H.E Deputy Governor David Kinaniri when she paid a courtesy call to the Governor’s office