Nina at the far right holding her Mars Comfort Kit in the company of her friends. Photo Courtesy| Save the Children

By Alphonce Wadenya

In Turkana, Kenya, children are facing severe challenges as scorching temperatures and widespread malnutrition threaten their futures. Amidst these conditions, Loyie* dreams of becoming a doctor, while Nina* aspires to be an engineer. However, school and hygiene necessities are significant barriers to their educational goals.

To address these crises, Save the Children, with support from the Mars Wrigley Foundation, launched initiatives to aid malnourished children and families affected by floods. The organization distributed hygiene kits, aiming to improve the living conditions and educational opportunities for these children. Turkana’s Senior Program Coordinator, Akutan highlighted the importance of these kits, stating, "We received 24,000 kits from the Mars Wrigley Foundation. Out of these, Turkana received 3,000." The kits provided essential hygiene products like toothbrushes, towels, body lotion, and combs, helping to promote sanitation and improve the children's self-esteem.

Students like Nina* and Loyie* have shared how these resources have transformed their daily lives. Previously, Nina* would bathe with water only and apply cooking oil to her skin. After receiving a hygiene kit, she found lotion and combs, which she eagerly shared with friends. This communal spirit underscores the program’s impact, as it not only meets basic needs but also fosters a sense of community and support.

Teachers like Silas Nyongesa note that the kits have come at the right time and if resources are available more kits can be distributed to more children to encourage them to go to school. The program has sparked discussions among teachers and parents about incorporating nutritious meals into the backpacks for children, highlighting the ongoing commitment to addressing the barriers to education in Turkana.

Save the Children, with support from the Mars Wrigley Foundation, provided 23,970 hygiene kits, out of which 3,000 were distributed in Turkana. These kits included essential hygiene products such as toothbrushes, towels, body lotion, and combs, aimed at improving the children's hygiene and overall well-being. Additionally, Save the Children targeted children who were out of school, encouraging them to return by addressing some of their basic needs. This support was crucial in helping malnourished children and families affected by floods and drought.