Parents have been urged to protect children from the harmful effects of excessive use of electronic gadgets during the April holiday break.
This is according to CPA Geoffrey Kurgat, who cautioned that while digital devices are useful, unsupervised use can expose children to addiction and harmful content.
Kurgat noted that although it is important for children to learn how to use gadgets such as smartphones and computers, their usage must be closely monitored and controlled.
Speaking during a visit to Umoja Children’s Home in Singorwet Ward, Bomet Central Sub-county, he called on parents to actively guide their children on the responsible use of mobile phones, tablets, and other digital devices.
“Gadgets are powerful tools, but without guidance, they can expose children to harmful content,” Kurgat warned.
He encouraged parents to steer children towards using technology for homework, learning, and skill development, rather than being distracted by inappropriate videos and social media trends.
During the visit, Kurgat donated warm clothing and foodstuffs to the children, stressing that meeting their immediate needs should go hand in hand with instilling life skills and digital responsibility.
He also urged leaders to use school holidays as an opportunity to mentor vulnerable children and inspire hope for a better future.
“Education and guidance must continue even during holidays. Every child deserves to be safe, learn, and grow,” he said.
Kurgat emphasized that protecting children online is just as important as ensuring their physical safety, noting that holidays are a period when children are more exposed to risks.
With the election period approaching, he also called on political leaders to uphold peace, saying instability often affects children the most.
“When campaigns are violent, it is the children who suffer the most. Let us focus on ideas, not goons,” he said.
He underscored the role of parents and society in raising responsible and empowered children, adding that guiding children on the proper use of technology is key to securing their future.
