World Vision Kenya Holds Annual Day of Prayer to Mark The Commencement of a New Financial Year (FY 2025)

World Vision staff across the globe united to mark the Annual Day of Prayer, a cherished tradition that kicks off the new financial year, 2025. In Kenya, staff and children gathered at the Nairobi Chapel on 1st October 2024 for this year's Day of Prayer under the theme, "Christ at the Centre at All Times," inspired by Colossians 1:16-17. The event highlighted the organisation’s commitment to keeping faith central to its work with children and communities.

In a heartfelt message, World Vision East Africa Regional Leader Lilian Dodzo reminded staff of the importance of faith in their mission. "In our engagement with children, let's always remind them that Christ is at the center of all we do," she said. Dodzo acknowledged the challenging environments in which staff operate but urged them to remain steadfast in their faith.

World Vision President and CEO Andrew Morley praised the dedication of staff, board members, and volunteers who tirelessly work to transform the lives of children and families worldwide. "This year's theme is a reminder that everything we do to serve children is by Jesus, through Jesus, and for Jesus," Morley emphasized, underlining the spiritual foundation of World Vision's work.

The keynote speaker, David Ashcraft, President and CEO of the Global Leadership Network, encouraged the World Vision family to remain focused in their mission, drawing inspiration from scriptures such as 2 Kings 19:14 and Philippians 4:6-7. Ashcraft also celebrated the ongoing partnership with World Vision Kenya, highlighting the success of the Kalawa Area Programme and the peacebuilding training for pastors led by his church, Lives Changed by Christ.

Dr. David Githanga, World Vision Kenya Board Chair, urged participants to join hands with World Vision's ENOUGH campaign, which advocates for every child to have access to sufficient and nutritious food. "ENOUGH nutritious food for every child, sourced ethically and sustainably, is essential for children to flourish. This vision is within World Vision's reach, but it remains elusive for far too many children across East Africa," he stated.

The year 2023 saw an estimated 942,000 children under five and 135,000 pregnant and breastfeeding mothers in Kenya acutely malnourished and in need of treatment. Child hunger is at its worst in generations, exacerbated by climate change and conflict.

In 2023, World Vision Kenya invested over 13 billion Kenyan shillings, with more than half dedicated to food and nutrition security projects, reaching 1.9 million children and 1.5 million adults.

Additionally, over 1.3 million people in Kenya affected by emergencies, were provided with critical support focusing on food distribution, early warning systems, and disaster risk reduction. Furthermore, over 780,000 children received lifesaving assistance.

As World Vision Kenya celebrates 50 years of impactful service, the organisation has positively impacted the lives of more than 9 million children.

"Every child deserves the food they need to develop a healthy body and mind. Every family has the right to put enough of the right food on the table," Dr. Githanga concluded. "Let us pray and work tirelessly towards a world where every child enjoys enough nourishing food. Together, we can pave the way for a brighter and more equitable future for generations to come."

World Vision Kenya’s Board Vice Chair Grace Munjuri, Director Dr. Heglon Kitawi, and Senior Leadership, led by National Director Gilbert Kamanga, were in attendance. Children from Samburu County shared memory verses from Galatians 5:22-23, concluding the day with a powerful and educative play on child and adult safeguarding. This performance embodied the spirit of hope and transformation that defines World Vision’s mission.

As World Vision embarks on the 2025 financial year, the organisation continues to place Christ at the center of its global efforts, with prayers for divine guidance and blessings for the journey ahead.

By Felix PiliPili, Communications Specialist, World Vision Kenya