From Vaticannews · Vatican News · · 1m 30s
Kenya: Emmanuel’s future begins with the keyboard
Ten-year-old Emmanuel, a street child in Nairobi, finds hope through piano at Tone la Maji center.
In brief
Ten-year-old Emmanuel, a street child in Nairobi, finds hope through piano at Tone la Maji center. Emmanuel, a street child in Kenya, now plays piano at Tone la Maji center after rehabilitation. Originally reported by Vaticannews.
Emmanuel’s story
Ten-year-old Emmanuel, a street child in Nairobi, found shelter at Tone la Maji center.
“Hello everyone, my name is Emmanuel and I am ten years old. Today, we are at the Tone la Maji center. There are many children and young people here. People here protect us, they provide us with shelter, clothing, and everything we need.”
Family challenges
Emmanuel’s mother is missing, his father struggles with severe drug addiction, and he was left with an older brother.
“The boy was left in the care of his older brother, who was still in school and unable to provide consistent care.”
Rehabilitation program
Emmanuel is now in a rehabilitation program at Tone la Maji center, returning to school and receiving healthcare.
“Emmanuel’s story is not unique.”
Family reunification
Staff at Tone la Maji center located Emmanuel’s father and escorted him to meet his son.
“The goal, Luta explains, is to attempt to rebuild a bond that seemed lost and circumstances permitting to pave the way for a future reunion.”
Center history
Tone la Maji center was established in 2005 in Ongata Rongai, Kajiado County, south of Nairobi.
“Tone la Maji is a residential center that currently houses 30 vulnerable children and youths, primarily former street children.”
Rehabilitation goals
The center helps children understand their histories and rebuild themselves into new individuals.
“Staff explain that this process of restoration and reintegration requires the children to understand their own histories and rebuild themselves into new individuals.”
Talent discovery
Children at Tone la Maji center explore talents through music, acrobatics, football, and drawing.
“We begin by guiding each child according to their individual abilities, because not all children possess the same aptitude for academics or achieving high grades.”
New Solidarity program
The 'New Solidarity' program supports children and their families to prevent relapse into street life.
“We support parents so they can start businesses and put food on the table. Food is one of the basic necessities in a child's life.”
Street children challenges
67 percent of street children in Meru County have used drugs at least once, with 56 percent smoking them.
“Drug abuse has become a problem that is spreading through Kenyan society and affecting even the youngest.”
Emmanuel’s piano talent
Emmanuel plays piano at Tone la Maji center, performing with a live audience of twenty children.
“Yes, I love football, but what I really love is playing the piano. I’m a pianist.”
The key point
Emmanuel, a street child in Kenya, now plays piano at Tone la Maji center after rehabilitation.
