8 April 2024, Nairobi. –
In the heart of Nairobi’s bustling Mathare, – one of the biggestinformal settlements in East Africa, – lies a story of resilience, community, and empowerment. Led by Mitsu and his dedicated team from Hello Kitty (LINK), their journey into Mathare was not just about documenting a youth empowerment initiative; it was about witnessing firsthand the transformative power of collective action.
The UN-Habitat team, led by George Gachie from UN-Habitat’s Participatory Slum Upgrading Programme, welcomed the guests from Japan as they embarked on their mission to capture the essence of youth-driven change in Mathare.
The day began at the Mathare community park, once a desolate dumping ground for over 200,000 families. The environmental and health challenges posed by this waste were evident, with the Nairobi River bearing witness to the community’s struggle.
But about a year ago, everything changed. The Mathare youth embarked on a journey to reclaim their space. They cleaned, cleared, and planted trees, transforming the former dumpsite into a vibrant community park. With thoughtful planning, they designated areas for children to play safely, ensuring both recreation and environmental sustainability.
As the filming activities continued, we saw young mothers utilizing the park for breakfast meetings, emphasizing the newfound sense of security and awareness it brought. “In the past, we didn’t know where our children were playing, but now we know they are in the play park, and it’s a clean and safe place,” one mother shared, echoing the sentiments of many.
The park isn’t just a place for children; it’s a hub for talented footballers and a much needed playing field for local schools. Organizations like Futbolmas (LINK) provide educational opportunities through sports, nurturing both athletic and academic growth.
But empowerment in Mathare extends beyond the youth. We met Safrina, a Gender Coordinator Officer of Mathare Roots (LINK), who implemented a program providing practical support and emotional solace for local women. From sanitary pads to food packages, Safrina’s initiative embodies holistic community care.
Our journey with The Hello Kitty team was more than just a documentary; it was a testament to the power of community-driven change. In Mathare, amidst the challenges, there is hope, resilience, and a commitment to a better future. And with youth leaders like Safrina and Lucas guiding the way, that future is brighter than ever.
Learn more about Hello Kitty’s #HelloGlobalGoals campaign on their website or watch the videos about the Sustainable Development Goals on their YouTube channel.
