The Influence of De-institutionalization Program Protocols on the Welfare of Vulnerable Children in Care Institutions in Nairobi, Kenya

The global shift from institutional care to family- and community-based care has positioned de-institutionalization as a critical child protection strategy for improving the welfare of vulnerable children. In Kenya, the National Care Reform Strategy promotes family-based care through standardized de-institutionalization programme protocols that guide child assessment, case planning, family tracing, reintegration, placement, monitoring, and follow-up. However, variations in adherence to these protocols continue to raise concerns regarding their effectiveness in enhancing the welfare of vulnerable children in care institutions. This study examined the influence of adherence to de-institutionalization programme protocols on the welfare of vulnerable children in care institutions in Nairobi, Kenya. The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional survey design within a mixed-methods approach. Data were collected from managers of child care institutions, social workers, caregivers, government child protection officers, and other stakeholders using structured questionnaires and key informant interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The findings revealed that adherence to de-institutionalization programme protocols significantly contributes to improved child welfare by promoting comprehensive child assessment, individualized case planning, effective family tracing, successful reintegration, continuous monitoring, and post-placement support. Institutions that consistently implemented these protocols reported better outcomes in children's physical safety, emotional wellbeing, educational continuity, psychosocial adjustment, and family stability. However, inadequate financial resources, insufficient staffing, limited professional capacity, weak family support systems, and inconsistent monitoring constrained effective programme implementation. The study concludes that strict adherence to de-institutionalization programme protocols is fundamental to achieving successful family-based care and improving the welfare of vulnerable children. It recommends strengthening institutional capacity, enhancing staff training, improving monitoring and evaluation systems, and fostering collaboration among government agencies, care institutions, families, and community stakeholders to ensure sustainable child protection and improved welfare outcomes for vulnerable children.