Government repatriates Kenyan toddler from Indonesia after mother’s arrest

The arrival of the baby at JKIA on October 25, 2025. /DA

The government has repatriated a Kenyan toddler from Indonesia after the child’s mother ran into conflict with the law in the host country.

The baby arrived safely at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Saturday morning, accompanied by Diaspora Affairs officer Grace Akello.

She was received by a team working in collaboration with the Mathare Constituency Children’s Office and a representative from the Centre for Domestic Training and Development (CDTD).

The team was led by Felister Kebati, Shukri Sirat, and Florence Wangari. Following the arrival, the baby was formally handed over to her grandmother in the presence of the child’s aunt.

The government, through the State Department for Diaspora Affairs and the Kenya Mission in Jakarta, covered the full cost of the repatriation to ensure the minor would not be placed in state care abroad.

Under Indonesian law, an infant must remain with the mother for a specified period, after which, if no relative claims custody, the child is placed in a children’s home.

Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary Roseline Njogu, who has been overseeing the case since it was brought to the department’s attention, commended the close cooperation among all agencies and individuals involved.

“This successful repatriation reflects our government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the welfare of Kenyans abroad, particularly vulnerable children,” Njogu said.

“We appreciate the collaboration of both state and non-state partners who ensured the safe return and reunion of this child with family.”

The State Department for Diaspora Affairs continues to extend consular and humanitarian assistance to Kenyans overseas, reaffirming the government’s pledge to protect its citizens wherever they may be.

It remains unclear what offence the mother is suspected of committing that led to her arrest.

If a caregiver is detained in Indonesia, authorities normally try to locate a close relative to care for the child.

If none is available, the child may be placed in a child protection centre or children’s home pending resolution.

Foreign embassies or consulates are usually involved when a child’s nationality is other than Indonesian; they can facilitate repatriation or assist with temporary guardianship arrangements.