World Children’s Day
World Children’s Day 2025 in Kilifi County: A Strong Signal for Children’s Rights
On 20 November 2025, the official World Children’s Day celebration took place at Karisa Maitha Stadium in Kilifi County, under this year’s theme “My Day, My Right.” The event brought together representatives of the national government, charitable child welfare organizations (CCI), teachers, students, and human rights activists from various regions of Kenya. The shared goal was to raise awareness of children’s rights and to emphasize society’s responsibility to protect their well-being.
Participation of the Heshima Rescue Centre
The Heshima Rescue Centre was among the selected institutions invited to actively participate in the celebrations. Eight children from the centre traveled early in the morning to Kilifi together with Manager Mr. Kemboi, social worker Alice, and intern Winnie. There, they contributed to the cultural program of the day with a choral performance.
Program of the Event
Several hundred guests attended the World Children’s Day celebrations. Participants included representatives of the county government, the Department of Children’s Services, various child welfare institutions, as well as international organizations such as Plan International, SHOFCO, and UNICEF.
The day began at the Pwani University campus with a joint tree-planting activity led by Gilbert Biwott, Director of the National Council for Children Services (NCCS).
Afterwards, Kilifi’s Deputy Governor, Florence Mbetsa Chibule, officially opened a procession from the university entrance to the Karisa Maitha Grounds. The parade was escorted by Kenyan security forces, led by the traffic police. Children carried banners and placards with messages advocating for the protection of children’s rights, while a children’s band provided music—creating a lively and colorful start to the celebrations.
Photo: Children from the Heshima Rescue Centre during their choral performance at the World Children’s Day celebration in Kilifi County.
Our children can be seen in the video from minute 41 onwards. Click here!
Program & Performances
The day’s program offered a diverse mix of cultural and creative contributions:
traditional dances
musical performances
karate demonstrations
poetry recitations
A particularly special moment was the performance by the children from the Heshima Rescue Centre under the direction of David Kasere. Their choral song reflected the theme of the day, highlighted the challenges many children face, and emphasized the importance of active government support.