- We seldom keep in mind that children can be subjected to various forms of aggression, each with devastating consequences.
- It could be mental aggression, which includes verbal abuse, bullying, and psychological manipulation.
Adults are usually the bulls fighting or at least steadying up to fight. Children are usually the grass on the battlefields.
In cases of domestic violence, conflicts, demise of a loved one and even family feuds, more attention is often put on the adults, and the children are forgotten.
We seldom keep in mind that children can be subjected to various forms of aggression, each with devastating consequences.
It could be mental aggression, which includes verbal abuse, bullying, and psychological manipulation.
It could be sexual aggression, encompassing molestation, exploitation, and other forms of sexual abuse, or it could be emotional aggression, which involves behaviours such as neglect, rejection, and constant criticism.
According to statista.com, in 2021, the cases of violence against children in Kenya were over 147,000.
According to the National Violence Against Children Survey Report, 2019, 62.6 per cent of females experienced multiple incidences of sexual violence in childhood.
Each of these forms of aggression can lead to significant trauma, manifesting in various ways, including anxiety, depression, behavioural issues, difficulties in academic and social settings, self-esteem, trust issues and difficulties in forming healthy relationships.
The impact of such trauma underscores the need for timely and effective intervention to support affected children.
To address the multifaceted needs of abused and traumatized children, the government, particularly the Directorate of Children Services (DCS), to establish more child centres across the country. The five existing ones are barely a drop in the ocean.
These centres should serve as safe havens where children can receive comprehensive care, including mental health services, educational support, and recreational activities.
Child centres should focus on fostering mental health by providing access to counsellors and therapists who specialize in child psychology and trauma recovery.
These professionals can help children process their experiences, develop coping mechanisms, and build resilience. Moreover, child centres can serve as hubs for raising awareness about child abuse and aggression, educating communities about the signs of abuse, prevention strategies, and the importance of reporting suspected cases.
Protection is another critical function of these centres. By offering a secure environment and coordinating with law enforcement and social services, child centres can ensure that children are removed from harmful situations and placed in safe, nurturing environments.
They can also advocate for children's rights, pushing for stronger protective measures and better enforcement of existing laws.
In conclusion, the establishment of child centres is a vital step towards addressing the pervasive issue of child abuse and aggression. By providing professional help, fostering mental health, raising awareness, and ensuring protection, these centres can play a transformative role in the lives of vulnerable children.
The government must take decisive action in creating and supporting these centres, ensuring a safer, healthier future for all children.
Nguvu Change Leader