Kiambu residents have been urged to embrace orphaned children within the society in a bid to fight the stigma associated with them.
Kiambu-based politician Gladys Chania said that there is a positive impact when the society embraces disadvantaged children, many of whom live in children homes.
Speaking at the 27th anniversary of the African Child Day held at Ebenezer Children’s Home in Ruiru on Saturday, Chania said more needs to be done in fighting stigma associated with orphans.
The day of an African Child is celebrated every year on June 16 since 1991 with an aim to appreciate children who have experienced difficulties in life.
“Counseling and being there for disadvantaged children gives them an extra mile in their lives by making them feel whole. It gives them a reason and purpose for existence,” said Chania who doubles up as a counseling psychologist.
She added: “When non-orphaned children visit others, they realize there is no human difference between them, so they avoid creating unnecessary stigma as they mingle and associate with them. Let's encourage our young ones to share as it’s a necessary virtue.”
Kiambu politician Gladys Chania at the Ebenezer Children's Home in Ruiru [Gladys Chania]
Chania challenged the government to factor in the development of children living in orphanages citing that in future, they could be instrumental in fighting corruption.
“While we teach our children the value of sharing with others, Vision 2030 should also focus on the development of disadvantaged children which could go a long way towards curbing corruption in future as the vice is brought about by selfishness,” she remarked.
Ebenezer Children Home hosts more than 40 orphaned children some of whom are in primary school while others are in secondary school.
There are a few others who are currently in college who have been brought up at the children’s home.
Chania together with other well-wishers donated flour, toilet papers; sanitary pads and offered counseling services to the children.
Kiambu politician Gladys Chania donates foodstuff, toilet paper, and sanitary towels to orphaned children at Ebenezer Children's Home in Ruiru. [Gladys Chania]