As the world marked World Mental Health Day and Kenya observed Mazingira (Environment) Day on October 10, the Rotary Club of Hurlingham - Nairobi brought new meaning to both celebrations through an impactful outreach at Immanuel Afrika—a transformative centre that provides a safe haven for street boys and girls in Lusigeti town, off Dagoretti Road.
As the world marked World Mental Health Day and Kenya observed Mazingira (Environment) Day on October 10, the Rotary Club of Hurlingham - Nairobi brought new meaning to both celebrations through an impactful outreach at Immanuel Afrika—a transformative centre that provides a safe haven for street boys and girls in Lusigeti town, off Dagoretti Road.
Street children in Kenya face immense challenges—poverty, neglect, substance abuse, exploitation, and limited access to education and healthcare. Yet, within this struggle, Immanuel Afrika has emerged as a beacon of hope, offering not just shelter but a pathway to transformation.
Founded by Pastor Peter Nduati who turned personal pain into purpose, the centre’s story is one of redemption and resilience. After witnessing his brother, Dan Nduati, struggle with drug addiction and life on the streets, he committed himself to transforming the lives of children facing similar struggles. His own painful journey inspired him to create a refuge where children could find healing and purpose. Today, I - Afrika not only shelter but also nurtures dozens of children, providing them with free education, mentorship, and emotional support.
A highlight of the day was a powerful Mental Health Awareness session led by Rotarian Joyce Kanja from Rotary Club of Nairobi Nabo, a counsellor who shared valuable insights on emotional well-being while encouraging the children to always speak up when struggling. Her parting words resonated deeply: “The mind controls everything else—when you are not in a stable state of mind, you cannot achieve much.”
By the end of the day, the 49 children consisting of 32 boys and 17 girls aged between 7 – 25 years benefited from the mentorship sessions, donated food items, clothes, shoes, sanitary towels, tree seedlings and demonstration on proper hand-washing techniques. More importantly, they left with renewed hope and confidence that their circumstances do not define their future.
The collaboration between Rotary Club of Hurlingham and Immanuel Afrika is a powerful reminder that small acts of kindness can ripple into lasting change. Through mentorship, environmental stewardship, and mental health advocacy, the Rotarians are helping rewrite the story of Kenya’s street children.