Stigma often builds walls, isolating young individuals who seek a second chance. The First Okiri Festival, themed “Walking in Their Shoes,” set out to break down these walls by fostering understanding, inclusion, and support for the youth at Kisumu Children’s Remand Home.
This festival was a journey into the realities these young people face and a celebration of their resilience and potential.
Upon arrival, guests were handed a case; an example of offenses that have led some of the young individuals to the remand home. This small but powerful exercise encouraged attendees to reflect on the circumstances that shape these young lives. Guided by one of the youth, guests then toured the facility, gaining firsthand insight into the daily lives of the children and the efforts being made toward rehabilitation and reintegration.
Following the tour, guests participated in a mock court session, experiencing what these young individuals go through when they stand before a judge. The intensity of the moment was evident, as many found themselves overwhelmed by the pressure of the setting.
I was tense. I have never been to court and as much as it was a model, I got tense and did not know how to go through that. But it was a good experience
Hillary Omondi – Participant
Rosemary Opiyo, a psychologist, reflected on the experience, saying, “For a child, this can be a life altering moment; one they will never forget. I could see how tense people became, and even if you are innocent, the pressure could easily lead you to admit to something you didn’t do. It made me wonder about the mental impact on these children, having to go through such an intense process.“
The experience highlighted the emotional and psychological weight of the justice system on young individuals and sparked conversations about the need for a more rehabilitative approach.
The Power of Expression
The festival was also a celebration of talent and creativity. Through performing arts, the youth shared their stories and dreams.
The skit depicted a boy caught between difficult life choices. In his dream, he found himself in a situation where he had impregnated a girl but refused to take responsibility. At the same time, he was part of a gang that terrorized community members through robbery. His actions eventually caught up with him, as he and his gang were shot dead by police. Just as he faced the fatal consequences, he was jolted awake by a prison warden, bringing him back to reality.
The skit left the audience in deep thought, highlighting the harsh realities of crime, responsibility, and the consequences of choices made at a young age.
To end the day on a joyful and uplifting note, a football match was organized between the children from the remand home and Nyalenda Young Stars. The energy on the field was electric, with both teams giving their all.
The First Okiri Festival was a reminder that transformation happens when communities come together with open hearts and minds. The journey of reintegration does not end here, it continues in every conversation, every opportunity, and every act of acceptance.
Because these young people deserve to be seen beyond their pasts. Because their future is worth investing in.
A special thank you to our partners Better Me Kenya, The Rotaract Club of Kisumu Winam, Rise To Shine Education Foundation, Sapphire, and Homeless of Kisumu for making this day possible.