By Yoga David
Photos by Adams Claine
Governor Prof. Anyang Nyong’o on Friday led Kisumu residents and stakeholders in commemorating the 60th Anniversary of Mama Ngina Children’s Home.
Governor Nyong’o who was joined by Carren Ageng’o, Principal Secretary, State Department for Children Welfare Services Ministry of Labour & Social Protection, praised the institution as a cornerstone of compassion and dignity for vulnerable children in the region.
Speaking during the colourful diamond jubilee event, Governor Nyong’o lauded the founders, staff, caregivers and volunteers, who have dedicated themselves to the home’s mission since 1965.
“Over the past six decades, the Lakeside Children’s Sanctuary has served as much more than a shelter, it has been a cradle of abandoned infants, cared for children with disabilities, reunited lost children with their families, and protected the most vulnerable from abuse and exploitation, offering each child dignity, safety, and a path to healing.” said the governor.
The Governor, joined by Kisumu First Lady Dorothy Nyong’o described the home’s journey as a testament to collective responsibility, dating back to post independence Kenya, when a few compassionate individuals planted the seed that grew into the region’s leading children’s sanctuary.
Governor Nyong’o expressed admiration for Ms Hellen Tuli, the centre Manager, applauding her selfless leadership and her dedicated work in running the home.
He also condemned child abuse in all forms, recounting a disturbing case reported recently in Ratta involving a 9 month old baby. He urged county administrators and the public to report such crimes promptly.
“I want to appeal to all our county administrators, please pay attention. If you hear of any such cases, do not cover them up. Let me know. Let the County Government know.” The governor emphasized.
“We must marshal our resources, respond effectively, and offer real support. Let’s not stay silent, we must act.” he added.
The event also brought together national and county leaders, development partners and donors including, Kisumu Central Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Mr. Bosek Langat, Nyakach MP Aduma Owuor, Ms. Beatrice Odongo, the CECM for Sports, Culture, Gender, and Youth, Judith Oluoch. CECM of Water, Environment,Natural Resources and Climate Change and City Manager Abala Wanga.
Ms Odongo emphasized the department’s support for the institution “We are here not just to celebrate, but to support. These children have talent and potential, our department through our gender sector working group continues to walk with this home and we invite more partners to join us”
She also clarified the county’s position on the facility’s expansion, offering the Tiengre Resource Centre as an alternative to Kanyakwar Cultural Centre, which will be preserved for cultural programs.
To mark the occasion food items donations made by the County and brought in by the Governor and the First Lady included, bales of unga flour, 2 sacks of 50kg rice, 2 cartons of milk, 10 kg of sugar and 20 litres of cooking oil.
In addition, Governor Nyong’o also made a personal contribution of Ksh 50.000 with a top up of Ksh 5000 from his friend in support of the home’s daily operations.
Governor Nyong’o concluded by addressing the children directly, encouraging them to dream big and believe in their future.
“To the children who call this place home, you are the reason we’re all here today. You are bright, you are resilient, and you are the future of Kisumu.” The governor stated.
He added “ Dream big. You have an entire community standing behind you and that community begins with Kisumu County.”
The county Government pledged continued support to ensure Mama Ngina Children Home thrives for another 60 years as a beacon of hope and sanctuary of love.
