Adoption in decline? A look at kenya's 2024 figures

Adoption in Kenya is showing a downward trend, with only 335 cases registered in 2024 compared to 474 in 2023, according to the Kenya Vital Statistics Report 2024.

Despite the decline, adoption remains a vital lifeline for children in need of loving homes.

Girls made up 51% of the adopted children, while boys accounted for 49%.

The majority of adoptions—99%—were by married couples, and most children adopted were aged 2 years.

Notably, 67% of these children were born in Nairobi City County.

Kenyan law permits adoption for children aged between 6 weeks and 18 years. Beyond the figures lies a deeper story of families being formed, lives being reshaped, and futures being secured.

Adoption remains both a legal and social commitment, designed to ensure stability for children whose biological parents are unable to care for them.