Day of the African Child- 16th June 2024

Venue: Chania boys high School

Theme: “Education for All Children in Africa: The Time is Now.”

On June 16, 2024, The Day of the African Child was celebrated with great enthusiasm at Chania Boys High School in Thika. The event, which united several schools under the Watoto Kwanza Kenya program, was a collaborative effort supported by various organizations such as Macheo, USAID, Usikimye, the CHEER Program, World Vision, and others. This year’s theme was “Education for All Children in Africa: The Time is Now.”

The day’s activities were highly successful, featuring numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing the welfare of children in the region. Key highlights of the event included:

1. Educational Programs:

Speakers from the sponsoring organizations led workshops and sessions that focused on:

• The crucial role of education in empowering African children.
• Strategies to enhance academic performance and reduce school dropout rates.
• Reinforcing the theme, “Education for All Children in Africa: The Time is Now.”

Participating Organizations:

• Macheo
• USAID
• World Vision
• Save the Children
• Watoto Kwanza Kenya

2. Health and Sanitation

Health professionals provided valuable insights and practical demonstrations on:

• Personal hygiene and sanitation, emphasizing the role of clean water and proper sanitation facilities in schools.
• Distribution of sanitary pads and hygiene kits to girls from Chania Girls and St. Patrick’s, highlighting the ongoing support from Watoto Kwanza Kenya.
• Participating Organizations:
  • Usikimye
  • Watoto Kwanza Kenya

3. Social and Emotional Well-being

Counselors and social workers addressed:

• The mental health challenges faced by students and the importance of seeking help.
• Building resilience and coping mechanisms to handle stress and peer pressure.

Participating Organizations:

• Watoto kwanza Kenya
• CHEER Program
• Hope Worldwide Kenya
• Psychological Society of Kenya

4. Talent Showcases and Cultural Performances

Students from the participating schools showcased their talents through:

• Traditional dances and songs celebrating African heritage.
• Art and craft exhibitions reflecting the creativity and potential of the African child.

Participating Organizations:

• Kenya Cultural Centre
• National Museums of Kenya

Sponsorship and Support

The success of this event was made possible through the generous support of the following organizations:

• Macheo: Provided logistical support and educational materials.
• USAID: Offered health and sanitation resources.
• Usikimye: Focused on child empowerment and rights education.
• CHEER Program: Contributed to the overall coordination and facilitation of the event.
• World Vision: Ensured the safety and security of all participants.
• Watoto Kwanza Kenya: Played a central role in organizing the event and supporting ongoing initiatives for children’s welfare.

Conclusion

The Day of the African Child event in Thika was a remarkable success, bringing together various stakeholders committed to the well-being and empowerment of children. The active participation of schools, sponsors, and the community highlighted the collective effort required to foster a supportive and nurturing environment for the African child. This event not only celebrated the achievements and potential of our children but also laid the groundwork for ongoing initiatives to address the challenges they face.

Watoto Kwanza Kenya remains dedicated to its mission of supporting and uplifting the children in our communities through continuous engagement and collaboration with all stakeholders. The theme “Education for All Children in Africa: The Time is Now” resonated throughout the event, emphasizing the urgent need to prioritize education for every child in Africa.