Kenya joins the World in celebrating World Children’s day
First Lady Rachel Ruto led the festivities in Kenya's Nakuru, demonstrating the country's dedication to the 2024 theme, "Listen to the Voices of Our Future."
The world united to celebrate World Children’s Day, a global occasion dedicated to promoting unity, raising awareness about children’s issues, and advancing their well-being on November 20.
In Kenya, the celebrations were spearheaded by First Lady Rachel Ruto in Nakuru, reflecting the nation’s commitment to the 2024 theme: “Listen to the Voices of Our Future.”
The theme underscores the importance of amplifying children’s voices and implementing strategies to improve their quality of life.
Speaking at the event, First Lady Rachel Ruto emphasized the importance of tackling child hunger as a key step toward improving the well-being of Kenyan children.
“If you cannot feed a hundred children, just feed one and free children from hunger,” she said.
She announced her goal of closing the gap for over 7.5 million children who lack adequate food by feeding 2 million children across the country.
The First Lady also called on legislators to allocate more funds to the Ministry of Education to fully implement the school feeding program.
Additionally, she urged county governments and other stakeholders to support this critical initiative.
Nakuru County Deputy Governor David Kones outlined measures the county government has taken to safeguard children’s rights.
These include establishing a rescue center in Njoro to rehabilitate street children and drafting a bill to regulate local daycares and children’s rescue centers to ensure they uphold and protect children’s rights.
The colorful event, held at Kaptembwa Primary School in Nakuru West, saw children from various schools take on significant roles, including serving as official emcees.
This active participation highlighted the central message of inclusivity and empowerment in shaping discussions about their future.
Established in 1954 as Universal Children’s Day, World Children’s Day is observed annually to advocate for children’s rights and inspire meaningful actions that pave the way for a better future. I
t serves as a powerful reminder that children’s rights are fundamental human rights and must be protected at all costs.
Globally, the day provided a platform for children to engage with leaders and push for transformative changes.
In Southern Africa, 7,000 children met with their leaders to demand quality and inclusive education, prompting the Malawian government to pledge the introduction of pre-primary classes nationwide by 2025.
In East Africa, UNICEF Uganda and its partners committed to equipping students with digital literacy skills.
Meanwhile, in Turkey, children drafted a Children’s Declaration to influence child-centered policy decisions.
Want to send us a story? SMS to 25170 or WhatsApp 0743570000 or Submit on Citizen Digital or email wananchi@royalmedia.co.ke
Comments
No comments yet.
Leave a Comment