The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC), through its Nakuru Regional Office, joined State and non-State actors in commemorating the International Day of Families in Nakuru, in a coordinated event aimed at strengthening inclusion, social cohesion and support for vulnerable members of society, particularly older persons.
The commemoration brought together community members, institutions and service providers in activities designed to highlight the role of families in promoting care, protection and wellbeing across all stages of life. The commemoration began with a procession from Nakuru Railways, drawing participants from different sectors in a public display of solidarity in support of family welfare and community resilience.
The walk served as a symbolic expression of collective responsibility in strengthening family structures and reinforcing social systems that support vulnerable populations. Stakeholders noted that the visibility of the event reflected growing recognition of families as a foundational institution in promoting social stability and cohesion.
The International Day of Families, observed annually on 15 May, was established by the United Nations to raise awareness of issues affecting families and to promote actions that strengthen family well-being and social development. The observance emphasises the role of families in nurturing individuals and supporting social and economic development across communities.
Participants in the Nakuru event noted that families remain central to care systems, especially in contexts where formal social protection structures may be limited or overstretched. Discussions during the commemoration highlighted a range of challenges currently affecting families, including economic pressures, shifting social dynamics and growing concerns related to mental health and overall well-being.
Stakeholders observed that these pressures are influencing caregiving structures and increasing vulnerability among certain population groups, particularly older persons and children. The need for strengthened community support systems and responsive social policies was identified as key to addressing these emerging challenges.
As part of the commemorative activities, NGEC and partners visited Alms Home for the Elderly, where residents participated in grooming and beauty services facilitated by Vera Beauty and Fashion College. Psychosocial support sessions were also conducted by MIDRIFT HURINET to address emotional well-being and encourage social interaction among residents. The engagement provided an opportunity for interaction between community members and older persons residing at the facility, promoting inclusion and intergenerational connection. Stakeholders noted that such initiatives help strengthen dignity, reduce isolation and promote a sense of belonging among older persons. The commemoration also brought attention to challenges affecting older persons, including loneliness, neglect, abuse, inadequate care and social isolation. Participants underscored the need for coordinated responses involving families, communities, institutions and government agencies to address these issues effectively.
Stakeholders emphasised that older persons remain an important part of society and continue to contribute to family and community life, requiring respect, care and protection. Speakers at the event called for stronger family-centred policies and community-based support systems to enhance care and protection for vulnerable groups. The discussions reflected global policy priorities that emphasise social protection systems, caregiving support and community-based interventions as essential components of family resilience. Participants noted that effective policy responses must address both economic and social factors affecting family stability and well-being. The National Gender and Equality Commission expressed appreciation to all State and non-State actors who participated in the commemoration. The Commission reaffirmed that partnerships and collaborative action remain essential in advancing social inclusion, strengthening family support systems and protecting vulnerable groups.
Through its engagement in such initiatives, NGEC continues to promote equality, dignity and inclusion for all members of society, with particular attention to older persons and other special interest groups.
The Nakuru commemoration of the International Day of Families highlighted the central role of families in promoting social cohesion, care and protection within communities.
