Ferdinand Omanyala's special Eid gift to Nairobi-based children's home [PHOTOS]
Reading Time: 3min | Wed. 25.03.26. | 08:16
What was meant to be a simple visit turned into a memorable Eid celebration for dozens of children
An old adage goes, ‘there is no better exercise for the heart than reaching down and helping those in need.’
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The saying came alive on Saturday, 21 March, when Africa’s fastest man, Ferdinand Omanyala, spent the day at Hope Care Centre in Njiru, Nairobi.
What was meant to be a simple visit turned into a memorable Eid celebration for dozens of children.
The visit doubled up as a housewarming ceremony for the children’s home, which recently relocated to a newly-built facility in New Njiru. The centre currently houses 36 children while also supporting others remotely, making the day’s activities even more impactful.
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The day, organised as a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative by the Omanyala Foundation in partnership with The Other Guyz and Smartie Me Impact, blended generosity, mentorship, and celebration.
From the early hours of the morning, preparations were underway, with teams setting up meals and creative sessions.
The day featured art activities, music, dance, and interactive sessions designed to engage and uplift the children. When Omanyala finally arrived in the afternoon, he seamlessly joined in, painting with the children, sharing meals, and taking part in mentorship conversations.
One of the most symbolic moments came when he planted a tree at the home, signalling a commitment to growth and continued partnership. He also left a handprint in the centre’s “Peace Room,” alongside the children and partners, as a lasting reminder of unity and shared hope.
Beyond the activities and donations, it was his message that left a lasting impression. Omanyala took the moment to encourage the children not to give up on their dreams and to put God first in everything.
“Put God first in everything you do because when your foundation is strong, everything else will follow. Work hard, even when no one is watching, because that is where real growth happens.
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Never despise anyone, as you do not know their journey or where they are going, and do not take life for granted because every opportunity you have is a chance to become better,” he said.
He further used his example to urge the children to trust and follow their dreams.
“Your background does not define your future; discipline, respect, and belief will take you further than you imagine,” he offered.
For the children, the interaction went beyond a meet-and-greet. It was a rare opportunity to engage directly with one of the world’s best athletes. They asked questions, shared stories, and drew inspiration from his journey.
Hope Care Centre Director Dyna Wanjiku Kinyanjui expressed gratitude for the visit, emphasising its deeper impact.
“We are truly grateful to the Omanyala Foundation for this generous act and for taking the time to inspire our children. Having Ferdinand Omanyala here is a life-changing moment for these young people,” Kinyanjui said.
“The encouragement and wisdom shared today will stay with them for a long time, and this support goes beyond material giving; it is about hope, motivation, and showing these children that they matter. We thank the Foundation for believing in our work and walking this journey with us,” she continued.
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The day concluded with a shared meal and moments of joy on the rooftop, capping off an event that blended celebration with purpose.