The National Treasury has invited citizens to submit comments on the Draft Public Finance Management (Child Welfare Fund) Regulations, 2026. The regulations aim to operationalize the Child Welfare Fund established under the Children’s Act.
The Act gives effect to Article 53 of the Constitution, which guarantees every child access to essential services and protection. Members of the public can review the draft and provide feedback to improve transparency.
Treasury officials encourage input from civil society, child advocacy groups, and concerned citizens. The draft regulations establish clear operational and financial rules for managing the fund.
Purpose of the Child Welfare Fund
The Child Welfare Fund supports expenses that safeguard children’s welfare. It finances programs preventing child exploitation and protects vulnerable children, including orphans and those with disabilities. The fund also strengthens family systems to reduce dependence on institutional care.
The regulations define governance, funding, and monitoring mechanisms. They aim to ensure that programs reach intended beneficiaries efficiently.
The fund offers a structured source of financial support for child-focused initiatives across Kenya. Officials emphasize accountability and proper utilization to maintain public confidence in the fund’s operations.
Article 53 of the Constitution grants children the right to a name and nationality. Children must access free, compulsory basic education, nutrition, shelter, healthcare, and protection from harmful cultural practices. The Constitution ensures children enjoy parental care and protection.
It restricts detention of children, allowing it only as a last resort. These constitutional guarantees guide the establishment and implementation of the Child Welfare Fund. The draft regulations align with these mandates and establish a clear legal framework for fund management.
Draft Regulations and Public Participation
Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi confirmed that the draft regulations and explanatory memorandum are on the National Treasury website. Citizens can download, review, and comment on the draft. The documents outline fund objectives, eligibility criteria, and implementation procedures.
Treasury officials will consider public feedback before finalizing the regulations. Input from stakeholders ensures the regulations address practical challenges. Officials stress that consultations will improve fund transparency and operational effectiveness. Public participation will help refine administrative and financial controls for the fund.
The fund will receive financing from several sources. Allocations approved by the National Assembly will form the core of its funding. Returns from fund investments, donations, grants, and gifts will supplement allocations. The State Department for Children’s Services will manage the fund, coordinating with the National Council for Children’s Services.
Clear financial reporting and monitoring procedures will track the use of resources. The regulations emphasize accountability to prevent misuse. Treasury officials expect disciplined fund management to enhance impact and ensure programs support vulnerable children effectively.
Timeline for Public Input
Kenyans can submit written memoranda and comments by March 9, 2026, at 5.00 p.m. Comments must be addressed to the Principal Secretary of the National Treasury. Citizens can also email submissions using official addresses provided in the notice.
Treasury encourages detailed input from organizations, professionals, and parents with expertise in child welfare. Officials stress that timely submissions will influence final regulations. Public engagement ensures rules meet real needs and reflect diverse stakeholder perspectives.
In addition to written submissions, the Treasury will conduct public forums starting March 6, 2026. Sessions will occur in Nairobi, Central, Lower Eastern, Upper Eastern, Coast, North Eastern, South Rift, Western, North Rift, and Nyanza. Meetings start at 10.00 a.m. in venues such as the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) and regional halls.
Citizens may present oral submissions and discuss proposals directly with Treasury officials. The forums allow stakeholders to raise concerns, clarify provisions, and recommend improvements. Officials aim to gather comprehensive input for finalizing the regulations.
Oversight and Accountability
The regulations include measures for oversight and financial control. The State Department for Children’s Services supervises administrative operations. The National Council for Children’s Services monitors compliance and advises on fund use. All donations and investment returns will undergo annual audits. The draft regulations require clear reporting channels to maintain transparency.
Officials intend to prevent mismanagement and ensure efficient use of resources. Accountability frameworks will track fund impact on vulnerable children. Proper governance strengthens confidence in the fund and ensures every allocation benefits children effectively.
The Child Welfare Fund will finance programs supporting education, healthcare, nutrition, and shelter. It will prevent exploitation and neglect, providing protection to at-risk children. The fund will strengthen family systems and reduce reliance on institutions.
A steady funding source will improve program continuity and reach. The fund also enhances government capacity to deliver child protection services nationwide. Officials stress the fund contributes to long-term social development by prioritizing vulnerable children. Public participation ensures that funding decisions align with community needs and practical challenges in child welfare.
Integration With Other Initiatives
The Child Welfare Fund complements initiatives such as the National Infrastructure Fund. While the NIF focuses on physical development, this fund targets human development.
Both funds aim to achieve sustainable social and economic growth. Integrating child welfare into national budget processes ensures predictable financing. The fund is expected to improve child welfare outcomes while supporting broader national development priorities.
After the public review, Treasury will finalize the regulations. Amendments may reflect stakeholder recommendations and practical considerations. Once implemented, the regulations will provide a legal framework for operationalizing the fund.
The Treasury will oversee program delivery, ensuring resources reach intended beneficiaries. Officials aim for maximum impact while maintaining compliance and transparency.
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