Military Wives Association of Kenya (MWAK) led by the Chairperson Mrs. Aileen Ogolla joined KDF Orphans and their guardians in celebrating World Orphans Day at Ulinzi Sport Complex in Lang’ata Garrison.
The World Orphans Day is celebrated annually worldwide, to bring to the fore the plight of orphans globally and the need to address their rights and welfare.
In her remarks, Mrs. Ogolla noted that MWAK is committed to contributing to the holistic wellbeing of widows and orphans in matters welfare. MWAK is constantly looking out for opportunities that can make a positive difference in the lives of our orphans. She highlighted some of the efforts MWAK has made in collaborating with Corporates to sponsor orphans for High School Education and TVETs.
She expressed her appreciation to the KDF fraternity for being in the lead on matters welfare for the KDF families though the Compensation and Welfare Department.
“This year’s celebrations themed, “Connecting, Healing and Growing Together”, highlights the importance of coming together to share ideas on how orphans can grow, progress together as a family ensuring that no one is left behind. Our collective responsibility is to forge connections that transcend circumstances to bring healing to wounded hearts and to create an environment where individual growth can be realized.” Added Mrs. Ogolla.
MWAK continues to mobilize and encourage Orphans from the various regions to form their groups for purposes of networking, supporting and linkage to opportunities. She stated the importance of reaching out and supporting one another.
Her sentiments were echoed by the Chief of Compensation and Welfare Brig John Khaoya who reiterated MWAKs mandate. He encouraged the orphans to accept, trust God as it matter not where you are but how you finish.
The Camp Commandant Col. Alfred Olenawankas, representing the Garrison Commander, encouraging the orphans to move beyond their situation and challenged the families to support those faced with the unfortunate situation.
Mrs. Regina Mulwa, the coordinator of Kenya Defence Forces Widows and Orphans (KEDWO) group in MWAK, appreciated the orphans and told them not to give up in life.
Also present was the Director of Ulinzi Sports Complex, Col Maasai.
The day was commemorated in Nanyuki, Eldoret, Gilgil, Nairobi, and Mariakani Regions. The orphans engaged in empowering sessions from team building, entertainment, group sessions and motivational talks that greatly encouraged the orphans.
Additionally during the event, MWAK leadership and senior officers led those present in a tree planting exercise within the Ulinzi Sports Complex, Lang’ata Garrison in line with the National Tree Planting Campaign.
