Kenya is facing serious questions after an international investigation revealed that children from Europe have been secretly sent to the country and abused in hidden disciplinary camps.
Many of these children were brought from Finland and Sweden by their parents, who believed they were sending them for moral correction or religious guidance.
What they found instead was violence, isolation, and deep trauma that remained hidden for years.
The investigation was carried out by Finland’s public broadcaster, Yle, and led by journalist Wali Hashi.
It uncovered a quiet but organised system that moves vulnerable children across borders into unregistered institutions in Kenya.
These places operate away from public view and without clear oversight. Parents are often told the camps will help correct behaviour linked to cultural conflicts, school problems, or disobedience.
Once the children arrive, reality quickly turns harsh.Hashi gained access to several camps by pretending to be a parent looking for help for his child.
Camp operators spoke openly to him and showed no fear of consequences. They claimed their work focused on discipline and religion.
They also admitted that children from European countries were staying in their facilities. Inside, undercover footage showed disturbing scenes.
Young people were chained to beds, beaten by guards, and kept away from the outside world.
Contact with family was cut off, leaving children isolated and powerless.
Former detainees shared painful stories of abuse. One Finnish citizen said he was sent to Kenya at the age of 12 and stayed there for years. He described regular beatings and living in constant fear. Punishments were often random and unexplained.
Guards used wooden sticks and water pipes, choosing tools that would not easily break. The aim was control through fear, not guidance or care.
Within parts of the Somali diaspora, the practice is often described as dhaqan celis, meaning a return to culture. Families are told this process helps children reconnect with values and avoid bad influences.
The investigation shows that this idea has turned into a profitable business. Camp operators charge families hundreds of euros every month.
This steady income encourages secrecy and allows abuse to continue unchecked.
Some parents may not know what truly happens inside these camps. Others may suspect harsh treatment but believe it is necessary.
Children are kept silent through distance, language barriers, and strict control.
Many are too afraid to speak out or do not know where to seek help.
The situation has drawn attention from foreign governments. Diplomatic officials from countries like Norway and Denmark have confirmed helping children who escaped from such camps in Kenya.
These cases revealed gaps in Kenya’s child protection systems. While Kenyan law bans child abuse and unlawful detention, enforcement is weak.
Many of these camps operate without registration and avoid inspections.
The investigation has made the problem impossible to ignore. Kenya now faces pressure to investigate these institutions and work with European countries to stop the abuse.
Protecting children requires action, transparency, and accountability. Ignoring the evidence only allows suffering to continue.
