Initiatives of Change - 'Kenya I Care' Campaign

Called 'Kenya I care’ the programme uses personal story sharing, skits and songs to communicate the basic ideas of Initiatives of Change, covering themes such as family relationships - the basis for a strong society, and tribalism – encouraging the students to break the chains of tribal hate and to embrace other cultures and traditions.

The presentation ends by encouraging the students to make commitments and decisions in the forms of deposits to the 'Character Bank of Kenya' (CBK).

Ann Njeri, one of those responsible for the programme, writes: 'The programme is basically creating a consciousness of the power of individuals to make Kenya flourish by committing themselves to do the little things in life that can make a huge difference but are often ignored.... Students are the hope and future of tomorrow. If they are to be responsible leaders/citizens these principles and values have to be nurtured early enough.'

The programme was launched at the end of February with an aim of visiting at least 20 schools per study term. Two primary schools and three high schools have been visited so far. Among the thousands of deposits already made in the CBK are:

I will stop watching pornographic movies

I will stop being tribal and love Kalenjins

I will always listen to God’s guidance

I will not blame myself for who I am but will correct the mistakes I have done

I will stop my shouting and talking anyhow

I will stop avoiding those who are in need

Njeri continues: 'In all the schools visited the students are asking for more. In one of the schools we have been asked to make a presentation for the teachers. In another they have asked us to visit the school twice every term.

'Corruption and tribalism are the two big issues that the over 1,000 students in all five schools have raised as a major concern. This is well reflected by the great numbers of students committing to fighting them. If the students take the challenge and live their commitments, Kenya might be on its way to a generation free of corruption, hate and moral decay.'