Today, a young father was tragically killed in a robbery right next to our school. It’s a senseless act that has left me and many others deeply shaken. This is my community, and I walk that same street every day. It could have been anyone. It could have been me.
Often, incidents like these spark anger and outrage, but soon enough, life seems to move on until the next tragedy occurs. But today, I’ve been reflecting on what truly needs to change. And I keep coming back to the same thought: until we address the root causes of youth violence in Kariobangi, nothing much will improve.
One major factor is the high school dropout rate. In three nearby secondary schools, it’s over 30%. Studies consistently show a link between dropping out of school and criminal activity. Young people who lack the skills and opportunities that education provides are more likely to fall prey to poverty, substance abuse, and gang influence.
So, what can we do? One crucial step is providing access to quality early childhood education. This gives children a strong foundation in literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional skills. When kids have these positive early learning experiences, they’re more likely to stay engaged in school, graduate high school, and pursue further opportunities.
I’m proud that at Hands of Love, we’re already working to address this issue by offering quality early childhood education to underprivileged children in Kariobangi. The nurturing environment, individualized support, and nutritious meals we provide have changed the lives of many children over the years. Some of them are now thriving in universities and colleges.
Today’s tragedy reminds us how important this work is. By investing in early childhood education, we’re not only helping children succeed; we’re building a safer and more just community for everyone.