Towards quality care for OVC: a collective responsibility
World Orphans Day is marked every year on 7th May. The day was first commemorated in New York in 2002 with the aim of raising awareness and advocating for the needs of Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC).
This day has been commemorated in other countries in subsequent years. In Kenya, the day was first commemorated in 2006. This was out of a growing concern to the crisis of millions of children who have been orphaned or made vulnerable by HIV/AIDS. The day also provides an opportunity to lobby the government and donor community to direct more resources towards OVC interventions.
Migori District joined the rest of the country in marking this day. The celebrations were held at Sori Sports ground in Karungu division. The event was co hosted by St. Camillus Dala Kiye Children Welfare Home and Mercy Orphans Support Program. The Guest of honor was the area District Officer, Mr.Kimutai. The occasion was graced by children and other stakeholders working with and for OVC.
This year’s theme was, “Towards quality care for OVC: A collective responsibility”.
It was a day that various stakeholders identified and stood with OVC growing up deprived of education, basic needs such as food, water and shelter and are at high risk of HIV Infection, discrimination, exploitation and violence in the form of forced labor, prostitution and drug trafficking.
The following were some of the resolutions that were passed:
- That every community member should take the collective responsibility of caring for the OVC
- That a supportive environment should be created for children and families affected by HIV/AIDS, through implementing awareness raising campaigns at selected levels through advocacy and social mobilization.
- That local structure that is mandated with overseeing the implementation of child rights are put in place.
- That all stakeholders should ensure access for OVC to essential services including but not limited to education, health care and birth registration.
