Report a missing or found child and get help with family tracing
State Department for Children Services · sources read 2 Oct 2026
Report a missing or found child to the nearest police station straight away and get an OB number. There is no waiting period. Then go to the sub-county children's office for family tracing and reunification, or call the free Child Helpline 116.
- Fee
- We couldn't confirm a fee from the official page. Check it there before you pay.
- Where
- The nearest police station first (for the OB number), then the sub-county children's office. Child Helpline 116 is free.
What you need
- The child's full name, nickname, age and a recent clear photo
- The time, date and place the child was last seen or found
- What the child was wearing, what they look like, and any medical conditions or disabilities
- The police OB number, when you have it
Steps
- Go to the nearest police station right away, report the missing or found child and get an Occurrence Book (OB) number.
- If it is urgent, call 999 or 112. For reporting, counselling and referral, call the free Child Helpline 116.
- Go to the sub-county children's office for a child protection assessment, family tracing and reunification.
- Also tell your chief, assistant chief or Nyumba Kumi so the community can help look.
Watch out
- Do not wait to see if the child comes back. There is no waiting period before you can report a missing child.
- A child is returned to the family only after officers confirm the home is safe and can meet the child's needs.
Who can apply
- Any child under 18 whose parent, guardian or carer does not know where they are
- Any child who has been found or rescued but whose family or usual home is not yet confirmed
Official sources (1)
- Services childrenservices.go.ke · read 2 Oct 2026