KENYA: Why Franciscan Sisters of St. Anne Participate in World Children’s Day
Sr. Rose Nancy FSSA
Sr. Helen Kasaka, LSMI
World Children’s Day is celebrated annually on November 20 as a motivating starting point for the advocacy and advancement of children’s rights
On this day and every day, the Franciscan Sisters of St. Anne (FSSA) work and pray for a world where children are protected, cared for, and supported
The Franciscan Sisters of St. Anne (FSSA) are part of the ten sister congregations implementing the Strengthening the Capacity of Women Religious in Early Childhood Development, (SCORE ECD) project in Kenya. The congregation has participated in the project from the first phase in 2014 to the current SCORE ECD III.
The project which is in its third phase is funded by the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation and coordinated by Catholic Relief Services through the Association of Consecrated Women in Eastern and Central Africa, (ACWECA).
Sister Rose Nancy Ghati is the SCORE – ECD Sister Master trainer in Siaya, Kisumu Diocese, and now tells why her congregation has participated in World Children’s Day
The Franciscan Sisters of St. Anne congregation has always been happy to join the UN in celebrating World Children’s Day as part of its mission to support children’s holistic development. This day is significant because it unites stakeholders, educators, caregivers, and children. It acts as a potent reminder of our shared obligation to establish a caring atmosphere that completes and supports each child’s development.
The Day was established in 1954 to promote international unity and understanding among children worldwide and enhance their well-being. Later, the Declaration of the Rights of the Child was adopted in 1959, as well as the UNCRC in 1989. Today, we commemorate this significant milestone in the life of every child. The celebration of the 35th anniversary of Children’s World Day coincides with a period when SCORE ECD is expanding its implementation to encompass a wider audience. It refers to children aged between five and twelve years and also includes the components of education, disability inclusion, and climate change.
This year, the theme of World Children’s Day is ‘Listen to the Future.
ACWECA: How is the theme contributing to SCORE – ECD?
Sr. Rose Nancy: The theme “Listen to the Future” is an appeal to listen to children’s voices, hopes, dreams, and visions for the future, and to promote children’s rights to participation.
As champions of SCORE ECD, we must promote the rights of children across all platforms, particularly among their caregivers. This is to emphasize the importance of parents being aware that their children deserve to be heard, given the opportunity to express themselves, and allowed to dream. All partners are equally responsible for advocating for the rights of children through the nurturing care framework. Therefore, encouraging full participation is essential. It is imperative to take into consideration that children represent our collective future. More than ever before in history, they need to be at the centre of societal commitments. We must ensure that children’s ability to thrive and achieve their full potential is at the heart of our actions.
ACWECA: What does this say to you?
Sr. Rose Nancy: The commemoration of World Children’s Day holds significance for both individuals and SCORE ECD as a program, as it highlights the significance of children’s rights and well-being, fostering a collective commitment to their advancement.
As a Sister Master Trainer, I should prioritize the needs of children within families and communities. I should ensure they grow up in supportive environments that nurture their potential.
For SCORE ECD as a program, especially considering its focus on the five components of nurturing care, the day provides a platform to advocate for child-centric policies, initiate initiatives, and mobilize resources to address pressing issues such as poverty, education inequality, and child protection. By uniting efforts on this day, individuals and organizations can help create a future where every child is empowered to thrive and know their rights.
ACWECA: What activities do you engage in during your attendance at an event?
Sr. Rose Nancy: When done at the community level, we have caregivers come together to make play materials for their children. They are sensitized to children’s rights and child safeguarding policy. Prioritize engaging in enjoyable activities with their children, such as engaging in games. This year, we have a radio talk show scheduled on one of the local radio stations. We aim to advocate for the rights of children beyond the scope of our implementation.
ACWECA: Are you planning any activities related to the theme in your county this year?
Sr. Rose Nancy: Since we collaborate with the county government of Siaya, they have not mentioned any plans for the year’s theme. However, for SCORE ECD as a project, we plan to continue having sessions with the caregivers to sensitize them on the rights of the children and how to balance their responsibility as parents/caregivers and the rights of the children. We will also do a lot of advocacy in different
ACWECA: Concluding statement:
Sr. Rose Nancy: I would recommend that organizations and institutions, both governmental and non-governmental, utilize World Children’s Day as an occasion to amplify children’s voices by organizing events or campaigns that enable children to express their opinions, share their aspirations, and highlight the obstacles they encounter. For example, hosting a children’s forum or an art and storytelling competition can create a platform for children to communicate their perspectives and raise awareness about their rights.
Furthermore, the organization advocating for children’s rights can collaborate with schools, local authorities, and other stakeholders to initiate initiatives to enhance access to education, health, or safety for children. They are using the day as a call to action for lasting change, as the rights must be respected, protected, and fulfilled at all times, even during times of crisis.
