NAIROBI — In a strategic engagement that signals a new chapter in policy collaboration, the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) hosted senior delegates from Plan International Kenya for a high-level dialogue on advancing child protection, youth participation and gender equality — particularly in educational and digital spheres. The meeting underscored shared priorities and a strengthened commitment to enhancing governance, evidence-informed policy and institutional capacity across Kenya.
Led by Commissioner Lentupuru, NGEC’s discussions with Plan International Kenya focused on constructing durable systems that protect children and young people from harm, ensure their full participation in civic life, and expand equitable access to opportunities in both physical and digital learning environments.
The session centred on the urgent need to fortify child protection and justice systems across the country. Participants examined gaps in existing mechanisms, including the responsiveness of institutions to incidents of abuse, the integration of rehabilitation and care for survivors, and the broader structural challenges that hinder timely and effective support.
Strengthening legal and social frameworks was presented not as an abstract policy objective, but as a concrete requirement for ensuring that children and young people are afforded dignity, safety and fair access to justice.
A key concern was enhancing coordination between national policy frameworks and sub-national implementation, where frontline gaps often disrupt protective measures.
A major area of focus in the engagement was the meaningful inclusion of children and youth in policy development and governance processes. Historically, young people have been relegated to consultative or tokenistic roles, with limited influence on decisions that directly affect their lives.
The meeting affirmed that youth participation must be structured, systematic and supported by clear mechanisms that elevate young voices within institutional spaces.
