Protection Services for 100 Rural Kenyan Children

The Nafasi Programme – August Holiday kicked off in Masii, Mwala Sub-County, with children welcomed into a safe and supportive space. The first day focused on orientation, with introductions, fun icebreakers, and the setting of ground rules to ensure respect and safety. Leaders were also elected to give children a sense of responsibility and ownership of the programme.

As the week unfolded, the children engaged in both Life Skills Training and Group Counselling sessions. Topics included emotional management, the difference between emotions and feelings, and how to respond positively to emotions. Group sessions focused on adolescence and puberty, covering both physical and emotional changes. Older participants (13–15 years) also explored gender, gender roles, and power dynamics, while younger ones (11–12 years) discussed the challenges of adolescence and the dos and don’ts that help guide them.

During mornings, individual counselling sessions were held while the rest of the children engaged in indoor colouring which was art therapeutic. In the afternoons, counselling continued while others played outdoors, enjoying football, field games, and other activities. The children’s excitement was evident, many arrived early in the morning and were often reluctant to leave in the evening.

By the end of Week One, a strong bond had been built among the children, facilitators, and counsellors. The safe space of Nafasi was filled with both learning and laughter, setting a solid foundation for the second week of the programme.