Slumfest, an annual event since 2007, brings together stakeholders and various development partners. This year’s event was held on 15^th October 2011, and marked the 5^th anniversary since the events inception. The occasion was celebrated with pomp and dance and different motivational messages which flavored the day while exhibition stands from various organizations provided color to make the event lively.

With several organizations represented during the event, Busara Primary School was a beehive of activities as each organization robed their stand with decorations denoting their youth friendly strengths.

HWWK joined other youth serving organizations in exhibiting their work

Slumcode, a Community Based Organization who works with youth in informal settlements, facilitates the Slumfest.  Through this event Slumcode partners with organizations who have a focus in informal settlements, thus the involvement of HOPE worldwide Kenya. This year, HWWK was among the key organizers who made the event a success.

At their exhibition stand, HWWK staff and youthful volunteers all clad in branded red T-shirts displayed samples of their work-materials. These included male and female condoms, demonstration dummies, and IEC materials. The participants who visited the HWWK stand benefitted from education on safe sex and proper condom use. They also received take home fliers and posters.

Ms. Lucy Maroncha in the Communications Department, takes participating youth through the activities undertaken in the youth program while Mr. Sammy Ngare, an administration police and  a performing gospel artist takes interest in the youth program

HWWK brought in a VCT truck where participants were encouraged to get tested. The MC of the day was Joseph Isiongo from HWWK who made interval announcements calling participants to visit the truck and know their HIV status. HTC counselors could be seen busying themselves advising their clients and answering questions.

Youth access VCT services at the event

The event received media coverage from Good News Broadcasting Services. Speaking to the press, HOPE worldwide Kenya’s Corporate Relations Officer, Tabitha Muia lauded Slumcode for the initiative. She expressed the desire of HWWK to be involved in the youth developmental programs in order to keep them involved in positive activities and give them hope for a better future. Tabitha reiterated HWWK’s focus on the in and out of school youths in Embakasi, Makadara and Njiru Districts. She noted that the youth in Mukuru-kwa Reuben, one of the informal settlements in Embakasi, are primary beneficiaries of HWWK’s Nuru Program which focuses on evidence-based and cost effective interventions.

Good News Broadcasting Services provided media coverage

A motivational speaker, David Bernard-Stevens, who is also the President and leader of Development Group, addressed the youth amidst cheers. He pointed out to the youth that their dreams were within their reach.  He said that they had a choice regarding their success. “We are today the summation of our choices. What we will be tomorrow is what we are choosing right now."  David’s inspiration for motivational speaking was prompted by his two sons

Among the key participants that day were Kenya Youth Enterprise & Development Fund, Nairobi Christian Church, Jicho Four Productions, Empower me network, Google and National Bank among others.