Walking for Children’s Rights: Our 20km Journey to Thiririka Falls on World Children’s Day
On World Children’s Day, Holistic Families Kenya held a powerful 20km walk from Kenyatta Road to Thiririka Falls to champion the theme “My Day, My Rights.” The walk brought together staff, members, and beneficiaries in a strong show of unity, advocacy, and community connection ending with a joyful celebration at the scenic waterfalls. The initiative sought to reinforce public awareness on children’s rights and strengthen community engagement around child protection.
A Visible Advocacy Effort
The walk began early in the morning, equipped with banners and advocacy messages, the team proceeded along the main road, enabling thousands of motorists, pedestrians, and business owners to interact with the campaign’s central message: that every child deserves protection, respect, and the opportunity to thrive.
The strategic route ensured a high level of visibility. From personal vehicles and matatus to lorries and roadside traders, the community responded positively as the group passed by, many stopping to read and inquire about the initiative.
Strengthening Community Connection
Beyond creating public awareness, the Children’s Day Walk facilitated meaningful interactions among participants. The long-distance journey became a space for sharing experiences, fostering peer support, and strengthening relationships across different age groups and backgrounds.
Along the way, the team paused at various centres, engaging business owners and residents who expressed interest in the cause. These interactions expanded the impact of the walk, transforming it from a physical activity into a multi-level community engagement effort.
A Symbolic Conclusion at Thiririka Falls
The group arrived at Thiririka Falls later in the afternoon, marking the end of the 20km journey. The natural landscape offered participants a moment of rest, reflection, and celebration. Some enjoyed the cool waters, others relaxed along the riverbank, and the team collectively commemorated the birthday of one of its members, a highlight that added warmth to the day’s achievements.
Health, Empowerment, and Continuous Advocacy
The walk served multiple purposes: it promoted wellness, strengthened unity among members and beneficiaries, and delivered a clear and public message on the importance of protecting children’s rights. It demonstrated how community-based advocacy can create both visibility and impact, particularly when conducted in collaboration with the very families and individuals who benefit from the organization’s programs.
Holistic Families Kenya hopes that those who encountered the walk whether briefly or directly left with a renewed appreciation for the significance of child protection and the rights enshrined under the “My Day, My Rights” theme.
Looking Ahead
This year’s Children’s Day Walk reaffirmed the vital role of community involvement in advancing children’s rights. It underscored that when people come together with shared purpose, awareness grows, dialogue begins, and progress becomes possible.
Holistic Families Kenya remains committed to building on this momentum. The organization will continue creating platforms that elevate children’s voices, support families, and strengthen public understanding of child rights and welfare.
As we look forward to future initiatives, we remain dedicated to ensuring that every step taken—whether through advocacy, programming, or community engagement—brings us closer to a safer, brighter future for every child.