THE INFLUENCE OF DIVERSION PROGRAMMES ON THE TRANSFORMATION OF CHILD OFFENDERS IN KAKAMEGA COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

Child offending continues to pose a significant challenge to juvenile justice systems in Kenya, particularly due to the limitations of custodial sentences in promoting meaningful transformation. In response, diversion programmes have been introduced as alternative, child friendly interventions aimed at transforming children in conflict with the law. This study sought to examine the influence of diversion programmes on the transformation of child offenders in Kakamega County. Specifically, the study explored the forms of diversion programmes in use, assessed the role of community involvement in child rehabilitation, and identified challenges affecting the effectiveness of these interventions. The study was guided by Restorative Justice Theory (Zehr, 1990) and Labeling Theory (Becker, 1963). A descriptive research design was employed. The target population was 326 respondents, with a sample of 180 determined using Yamane’s formula (1967). Proportionate and simple random sampling techniques were used, among the child offenders while purposive sampling was utilized among key respondents including child offenders, community members, and justice system stakeholders. Data was collected through questionnaires and interviews, with validity ensured through expert review and reliability confirmed via internal consistency. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. Findings indicated that all five diversion supervision programmes, therapeutic psychosocial counseling, education, placement to host families, vocational training, and victim-offender mediation, significantly influenced child offenders' transformation (p < 0.05). Therapeutic psychosocial counseling (Exp(B) = 5.92, p = 0.000) and education (Exp(B) = 4.75, p = 0.000) were the strongest predictors of positive change. Additionally, 90.4% of respondents highlighted host families as crucial for social reintegration, while vocational training (90.2%) and education (85.6%) were recognized for equipping child offenders with essential skills. Community engagement was also found to be vital, with 83.0% of respondents emphasizing resource provision, mentorship, and positive shifts in societal attitudes as key to successful rehabilitation. However, respondents identified challenges such as resource constraints, stigma, and difficulties adapting to new environments. The study concludes that diversion supervision programmes positively impact child offenders’ transformation by providing supportive environments and essential resources. It recommends strengthening and expanding these programmes through integrated diversion mechanisms to enhance their reach and effectiveness.