How to Hire a Safe, Trustworthy Caregiver in Nairobi and Kiambu

Letting someone into your parent's home and life takes trust. Unfortunately, not everyone advertising care services on social media is trained or vetted — a 2026 investigation into Nairobi's elder-care sector highlighted cases of neglect and financial abuse, and warned that many informal "agencies" do little screening (Streamline Feed). Here's how to protect your loved one.

1. Meet in person

Always meet the caregiver face to face before care starts — ideally in your parent's home, with your parent present. If you live abroad, ask a trusted relative or friend to attend, and join by video call.

2. Check training — and be clear about what it means

Ask to see original certificates, not just photos. Understand what the training covers: a caregiver or nursing assistant course is not a nursing licence. Only nurses registered with the Nursing Council of Kenya may practise nursing. A trustworthy caregiver will be upfront about that. Caregiver vs nurse explained.

3. Ask for a Certificate of Good Conduct

A Certificate of Good Conduct (police clearance) is issued by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, and applications are made through eCitizen. Ask to see a recent one.

4. Speak to references

Ask for at least two references from families or employers, and actually call them. Ask what the caregiver did, how reliable they were, and whether they'd hire them again.

5. Put everything in writing

A simple one-page agreement should cover duties, hours, rate, payment method, notice, days off (for live-in care), and emergency contacts. It protects your parent, you and the caregiver.

6. Keep money separate

• Pay the caregiver directly by M-Pesa or bank transfer
• Never share your parent's bank cards, PINs or M-Pesa PIN
• Keep valuables secure, and agree that any shopping is receipted

7. Stay involved

Visit or call regularly at different times, ask your parent how things are going (privately), and keep a local relative or neighbour in the loop. Regular WhatsApp updates from the caregiver are a good sign of transparency.

Warning signs

• Discouraging family contact or visits
• Unexplained withdrawals, missing items or new "loans"
• Your parent seeming fearful, withdrawn, unwashed or losing weight
• Reluctance to show certificates or provide references

If you suspect abuse, act quickly: remove the caregiver, make sure your parent is safe, and report to the police.

How I work

I'm happy to meet your family, show my original training certificate, give references, and agree everything in writing before care begins. Learn more about me.