By Synthia Awino | Social worker
In the heart of the Coastal region, where human trafficking cast its dark shadow, HAART shelter emerged as a sanctuary, a safe haven for female survivors of human trafficking.HAART witnessed countless stories of strength and survival. Among them, the story of eight girls with seven babies, who arrived on a fateful day, has touched the souls of all who have had the privilege to witness their journey.
These brave souls were admitted to the shelter during this reporting, finally liberating them from the clutches of a cruel trafficker. In a region plagued by low socio-economic status, retrogressive cultural practices and high poverty level which predisposes them to social and economic exploitation. These girls and their babies were unfortunate prey, trapped in a web of deception and false promises. They had been lured with the mirage of scholarships, only to be transported to an unregistered children's home for orphanage trafficking. Isolated from their families, their dreams of education were shattered.
However, the tides began to turn when their plight came to the attention of HAART Kenya and thereafter started their healing journey after admission at HAART shelter. Upon their arrival, the shelter extended the warmth of love and care, offering them with necessities of life. Medical aid was their first priority. These survivors underwent comprehensive medical screenings to assess their needs. The results were heart-wrenching. The babies were found to be malnourished and in dire need of medical attention. The minors, who had suffered immeasurable trauma, were not neglected either and received the medical care they deserved.
Their stay at the shelter was not just about recovery; it was about empowerment. They were served nutritious meals three times a day, which helped in mending not only their physical wounds but also their spirits. The survivors were given the opportunity to acquire new skills in mat making, baking, and beading, skills that would one day help them stand on their own feet.
Their journey was not just about the present; it was about securing a better future. HAART therefore trained them on safe migration, sexual reproductive training, their rights, and the dangers of human trafficking. The knowledge acquired will ultimately empower them in making informed decisions and be able to protect themselves.
The services provided were guided by the UN s 4P approach: Prevention, Protection, Prosecution, and Partnership. Prosecution, in particular, was an important step in their journey to justice. The social workers accompanied the residents to court, where a reintegration order was issued. The organization further paid for their transportation cost and meals on their journey back home.
Follow-ups and continued rehabilitation are integral part of HAART's case management process, the survivors were entrusted to the outreach care department of HAART Kenya, to ensure they would be protected from traffickers and given the support they needed to rebuild their lives.
This is a story of resilience, courage. These girls with their babies, once trapped in darkness, now stand as a testament to the power of hope, strength, and the human spirit's capacity to overcome even the darkest of trials.
By Mercy Otieno | Head of Protection
By Mercy Otieno | Head of Protection
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