For many children in conflict with the law, the journey through the justice system is a lonely path, often marked by separation, stigma, and silence. But yesterday, inside the Kisumu Children’s Remand Home, the narrative changed.
Under the theme “Reuniting Families and Strengthening Bonds,” the 3rd edition of the Okiri Festival transformed a detention facility into a place of connection.
The Right to Belong
Reintegration into society is rarely straightforward. Children often return to the same difficult environments that contributed to their initial conflict with the law; poverty, family dysfunction, or neglect. Without strong support systems, the cycle continues, with reoffending rates reaching as high as 60% annually.
At Okiri, we believe that every child has the right to a supportive family environment. The Okiri Festival was designed as a critical intervention to break this cycle, creating a safe space for parents and children to see each other in a new light: beyond fear, beyond “cases,” and beyond stigma.
For Kadogo (not his real name), a young boy at the center, the festival was a turning point in a strained relationship.
“Today has been great. My parent came and we met and I feel so happy… At least I have seen my parents. We were not agreeing when I was at home but this event has brought us together. I am grateful.”
Restoring Dignity Through Dialogue
The festival is also a platform for psychological support and identity healing. Through art sessions, shared meals, and facilitated dialogue, the event allowed families to bridge the gap created by time and incarceration.
Lydia Otieno, a parent attending the festival, noted the profound transformation she witnessed in the children. For her, the day offered a glimpse of a hopeful future where these young people are seen not as “criminals,” but as capable, confident children.
“I am grateful… The children are very excited… it looked as if they are now back home. It has given [them] courage and it has made them very happy… today their parents came, they were able to interact with them and that was a great step,” Lydia shared.
She added, “What was really good for me today is that children are able to speak very fluently. And if you look at them, you can see that their future is very bright because of what they’ve learnt and what they’ve achieved being here.”
A Foundation for the Future
For the children, the day provided a rare sense of normalcy and the comfort of paternal guidance. Jane (not her real name), expressed the simple impact of a father’s presence and a shared meal.
“My day has been very good. My father came and we talked. He told me to be good. I have enjoyed the food.”
A Community United Transforming lives requires a collective effort. We extend our deepest appreciation to the Department of Children Services (DCS), the Kisumu Children’s Remand Home administration, Ravelworks Africa, Dero Arts, Jijenge Youth, HoK, The Law Society of Kenya, The Rotaract Club of Kisumu Winam, Rieko, Eco Alchemy, our dedicated counsellors, civil society partners, and the volunteers who made this day possible. By standing with us, you have helped pave the way for a society where children are not defined by their mistakes, but empowered by their potential