NSJC closed the year on 17th December 2025, with gratitude, reflection, and renewed commitment to community service. This took place during a successful end-of-year meeting with support group leaders from across Nyando. The gathering created space to take stock of the year’s journey, appreciate the efforts of grassroots leaders, and strengthen coordination as we move into a new year of advocacy and care.
The meeting brought together leaders from our various support groups, who play a vital role in mobilizing communities, accompanying survivors, and linking vulnerable members to services. Together, we reviewed the milestones achieved, the challenges faced, and the priorities that will guide our work in the coming year.
Participants shared testimonies from the ground, highlighting how peer support has helped many community members access health services, navigate stigma, and find solidarity in difficult moments. The session reaffirmed the importance of support groups as a backbone of Nyando Social Justice Center’s community outreach.
Thanksgiving and Prayer for Bishop Ojuki
A special moment during the meeting was a brief but heartfelt prayer session for Bishop Ojuki, our own spiritual and community pillar. He had been unwell and admitted earlier, and we thank God for his recovery.
In his message of encouragement, Bishop Ojuki reminded leaders of the power of faith, unity, and service to others. He also offered a blessing for all support groups and their families as they continue to stand with the most vulnerable in Nyando.
Strengthening Tools and Bridges to the Community
To better equip the support groups for the year ahead, Bishop Ojuki blessed and presented group files and report books. These tools will help leaders document meetings, cases, referrals, and activities more effectively, improving accountability and follow-up for the communities they serve.
In addition, he supported the creation of a bridge in the Achego community, which now makes it easier and safer for residents to access essential services. The bridge is especially important for people travelling to Katolo Manyatta Dispensary for medication and to the Awach rice field, which is a key economic and security hub in East Kano Wawidhi Ward. This gesture not only improves physical access but also symbolizes a stronger connection between communities, services, and safety.
Looking Ahead with Hope
The end-of-year meeting closed with a shared sense of hope and determination. Support group leaders reaffirmed their commitment to:
- Walk alongside vulnerable community members seeking health care, justice, and support.
- Strengthen documentation and reporting for better response and accountability.
- Continue collaborating with faith leaders, local authorities, and partners for a safer, more just Nyando.
As Nyando Social Justice Center steps into a new year, this gathering serves as a reminder that meaningful change is built through collective effort, compassion, and consistent presence in the lives of our people.