At least 1,000 families have benefitted from a parent empowerment initiative across the country, the government has said, as Kenyans joined others around the world in celebrating the International Day of Families.

Principal Secretary of the State Department for Social Protection and Senior Citizen Affairs, Joseph Motari, noted that families from about 10 counties have benefitted from the National Positive Parenting Programme. 

The programme was created to help in implementation of National Policy on Family Promotion and Protection that was launched last year by the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, an event that was presided over by First Lady Rachel Ruto. 

“I am pleased to report that it has been scaled up to 10 counties—including Nairobi, Kisumu, Mombasa, Garissa, and Wajir—and has reached over 1,296 parents and caregivers with training on positive parenting practices,” he said.

He spoke on Thursday 15, in Nairobi, as he presided over the national celebrations that marked the 31st Anniversary of the United Nations International Day of Families. 

The UN designated May 15 as the International Day of Families during its General Assembly on September 20, 1993, emphasising the fundamental role of the family as the cornerstone of society.

PS Motari urged all implementing organisation of the programme to collaborate in scaling its impact to all the 47 counties across the country. 

“Let us stand together in support of parents and caregivers who are doing their utmost to raise children with values and skills for life. By empowering them through positive parenting, we are making one of the most strategic investments for the peace and future of our nation,” he stated. 

According to the Ministry, the programme aims to improve parental knowledge, skills, and confidence in child-rearing to create a safe and stable environment for children to thrive. 

Similarly, it focuses on building positive relationships, enhancing communication, and fostering a sense of security for the child. 

“It is a deliberate effort to promote respect, dialogue, and shared responsibility between generations,” he said, underscoring the role of elders in guiding the youth. 

“Our elders hold a reservoir of wisdom shaped by experience; our youth bring energy and innovation; and our children carry the promise of tomorrow,” he stated. 

With focus on raising awareness and promoting intergenerational solidarity in order to strengthen family well-being, resilience, and social cohesion as this year’s theme, he said, the unity of family is critical pillars for a peaceful and prosperous Kenya.