A coalition of community mentors is stepping up efforts to shield vulnerable children from the dangers of street life during long school holidays, offering mentorship, counselling, and daily meals to those most at risk.
The initiative, run under the Moyo wa Huruma Project, a partnership between Africa Nazarene University, Action for Children in Conflict, and local community groups, has been supporting children from informal settlements such as Kiandutu, where poverty, neglect, and lack of supervision often push minors into the streets.
Targeting children aged 4 – 15, the programme has so far reached more than 1,000 young people who frequently roam the streets during holidays, exposing them to arrest, exploitation, and criminal activity.
Dr. Susan Gitau, a lecturer at Africa Nazarene University and founder of the project, said the intervention is designed to give children a safe alternative to street life. She noted that many come from homes struggling with deep economic challenges, where some parents turn to alcohol and neglect, leaving children without essential needs.
“Our aim is to keep children away from environments where they are vulnerable to arrest, exploitation, and hunger,” said Dr. Gitau.
“These children often roam the streets because there’s no supervision or proper meals at home. Here, they find a safe space, a warm meal, and people who care.”
She explained that the project identifies at-risk children during school holidays and offers them structured activities such as coaching, sports, and creative sessions to keep them engaged and hopeful.
Dr. Bethelhem Tadesse, a volunteer partner, highlighted the strong support the initiative is receiving from well-wishers. She commended the Five Star Paradise Community in Runda for donating clothes and shoes, which she said brought immense joy to the children.
“Community support makes all the difference,” Dr. Tadesse noted. “We will continue working together until we see lasting impact in their lives.”
Community mentor Githii Kagwathi emphasized that mentorship plays a crucial role in breaking cycles of hopelessness in informal settlements.
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He said many adults in the area grew up without guidance, leaving young people with limited role models.
“Many of these kids just need someone to show them what’s possible,” Kagwathi said. “Our long-term goal is to raise a generation of empowered, focused young people who will one day return to transform their communities.”
As school holidays continue to expose vulnerable children to new dangers, community mentors say they remain committed to expanding the programme to reach even more young people before they slip through the cracks.
By Felix Njenga
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