Access to Justice
Ensuring justice systems that protect and uphold children’s rights
Ensuring justice systems that protect and uphold children’s rights
The Access to Justice Program at Pendekezo Letu (PKL) works to ensure that children in conflict with the law, as well as those in need of care and protection, can access fair, responsive, and child-friendly justice systems. The program is grounded in national legal frameworks and international child rights standards, and promotes approaches that uphold the best interests of the child at every stage of the justice process.
PKL adopts a holistic approach that combines direct legal support, systems strengthening, prevention, and community engagement to reduce children’s unnecessary contact with the formal justice system and promote rehabilitation over punishment.
PKL advances access to justice through the following key interventions:
PKL facilitates access to legal representation for children who come into contact with the justice system. This includes linking children with pro bono advocates, supporting case follow-ups, and ensuring timely legal assistance. The program works to ensure that children understand the charges against them, are heard in proceedings, and are protected from unlawful detention, prolonged cases, and rights violations.
The program conducts targeted training and continuous sensitization for police officers, children officers, probation officers, and other frontline practitioners. These sessions focus on child protection laws, diversion practices, trauma-informed care, and child-friendly procedures, strengthening the capacity of institutions to respond appropriately to children’s needs.
PKL trains community-based paralegal officers to provide basic legal guidance, referrals, and support within their communities. These paralegals act as first responders, helping identify cases early, preventing escalation, and linking children and families to appropriate legal and social services.
The organization conducts regular legal literacy sessions in children’s remand homes and rehabilitation centers. These sessions equip children with knowledge of their rights, legal processes, and available support systems, enabling them to actively participate in their cases and make informed decisions.
PKL organizes community outreach initiatives to raise awareness on children’s rights, legal protections, and justice processes. These campaigns target caregivers, community leaders, and young people, helping to prevent rights violations, reduce stigma, and promote early intervention.
The program promotes restorative justice through community mediation sessions that address disputes involving street-connected children and youth. These processes emphasize dialogue, accountability, reconciliation, and healing, offering sustainable alternatives to punitive responses.