On October 23, 2025, the Transforming Children’s Care Collaborative hosted a webinar exploring Kafaalah—a long-standing childcare practice in Muslim communities that has been observed for more than 1,400 years.
The webinar showcased recent efforts to strengthen Kafaalah and integrate it into national child protection and care reform efforts. It began with Kenya, where a multi-sectoral, research-informed process has led to significant progress, including a new National Framework for the Implementation of Kafaalah Care for Children. A panel of experts then shared insights on the practice of Kafaalah from Egypt, Tanzania, Kenya, and cross-border contexts—including practices between countries of origin and European host countries. The panel discussed lessons learned, key challenges, and practical strategies for integrating Kafaalah into care reform efforts.
Moderator:
- Kelley Bunkers, Changing the Way We Care Senior Technical Advisor, Maestral Associates
Speakers/Panelists:
- Khadija Karama, Changing the Way We Care Deputy Project Director, Kenya, Catholic Relief Services
- Jane Munuhe, Assistant Director, Alternative Family Care Department, Kenya State Department for Children Services
- Heba El Azazzy, Child Protection Technical Advisor, Save the Children Egypt
- Kokuteta Baregu, Executive Director, ISS Tanzania and the EKAMA Development Foundation
- Jeanette Woellenstein, ISS/IRC Director, International Social Service (ISS)
Closing Remarks:
- Florence Martin, Executive Director, Better Care Network
