NAIROBI, Kenya- The Ministry of Health has announced a nationwide crackdown on public institutions that have failed to establish creche facilities for female employees, warning that enforcement of the law will begin in January.
Speaking at two separate forums in Kirinyaga County, Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni said the absence of childcare facilities has become a growing crisis for teachers, public servants, and students who are new parents, affecting both productivity and wellbeing.
“When mothers do not have safe and reliable places to leave their children, it affects their peace of mind, their work, and even their ability to learn,” Muthoni said.
She noted that despite clear legal requirements, many public institutions have ignored the directive, operating on the assumption that enforcement would not follow.
“That assumption is wrong. This law is not optional. From January, we will enforce it fully to protect working mothers and their children,” she said.
The PS emphasised that access to childcare is not just a labour issue but a public health and social justice concern, warning that failure to comply will attract consequences once enforcement begins.
Rising Drug Abuse in Schools Raises Alarm
At the same time, Muthoni raised concern over the rising cases of drug and substance abuse in schools and other learning institutions, describing the trend as a growing threat to children and communities.
According to surveys conducted by the Ministry of Health, some learners are being introduced to drugs while in school and are later spreading the habits beyond school environments.
“The school environment should be safe. Unfortunately, some learners are picking up harmful habits there and taking them back to their communities,” she said.
In response, the Ministry of Health has partnered with the Ministry of Education, with joint enforcement and prevention measures set to roll out next week.
Surprise Inspections Ordered
Teachers and school administrators have been directed to step up vigilance, particularly by closely monitoring what learners bring to school.
Officials warned that some drugs are now disguised as sweets or ordinary legal products, making detection more difficult.
The Ministry has called for surprise inspections in classrooms and dormitories, urging teachers, heads of institutions, and discipline officers to intensify checks on learners’ bags and personal items.
Failure to act decisively, officials warned, could jeopardise the future of many children and expose communities to long-term social harm.
