Nairobi — In a stirring show of solidarity and purpose, over 3,000 people gathered in Nairobi this weekend to take part in the Kenya Red Cross’s annual Power of Humanity Walk. Themed “Safety First, Safety Always“, the walk aimed to raise awareness about safety in schools and to remind the country of the importance of protecting its children.
The colourful procession began at Nairobi Primary School, with the Kenya Prisons Band leading the charge. Their lively tunes set the pace as volunteers, students, teachers, Red Cross staff and well-wishers marched through the city streets, finally arriving at Nyayo National Stadium.
“It’s always inspiring to see so many people come together for a cause like this,” said Dr Vinod, Chairperson of the Nairobi County Board. “Safety in schools is not just a slogan. It’s a commitment we must all uphold.”
The event was also attended by Mr George Ndolo, the Red Cross’s Head of Region, along with senior regional staff. Funds raised from the walk will go toward safety training and emergency preparedness in schools — including first aid education and disaster response planning.
A National Effort
Further north in Nanyuki, the humanitarian spirit was equally alive. Hundreds of students and residents, some as young as six, took to the streets for a 10-kilometre walk to celebrate the Kenya Red Cross’s 60th anniversary.
The event was flagged off by Purity Kendi, the Laikipia County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Administration. She praised the long-standing partnership between the county government and the Red Cross.
“For six decades, the Red Cross has been a lifeline for our communities — especially during disasters,” said Kendi. “From floods to fires, their teams are often the first on the ground.”
Laikipia, prone to sudden floods and tensions between pastoralist and farming communities, has frequently relied on Red Cross support during emergencies. Survivors often receive food, shelter, bedding and medicine before government agencies can mobilise.
A Living Lesson
As part of World Red Cross Day celebrations, onlookers at the bus station were treated to a surprise rescue drill simulating a road accident. The scene, though staged, drew gasps from passers-by as volunteer medics, firefighters, and first aiders worked in seamless coordination.
“It was very real,” said James Mwangi, a local shopkeeper who watched the demonstration. “It shows how important training is not just for professionals, but for all of us.”
Beyond emergency response, the Red Cross has also been promoting long-term safety through tree-planting drives and school-based environmental clubs, helping to build resilience against future climate-related disasters.
Shared Commitment
Both events underscored the central role the Kenya Red Cross continues to play across the country not only in disaster relief but also in education, health and community engagement.
Corporate and community partners, including Tahmeed Bus Company, Jibu Water, Indomie and Dairyland, supported the Nairobi event, helping to ensure its success.
As Dr Vinod put it: “We’re celebrating 60 years of Red Cross work in Kenya but this is also a reminder. Safety is not a one-time event. It’s a culture we must build together, every day.”
