On Thursday, the 16th of June, a bus full of volunteers headed out at five o’clock in the morning to volunteer for the International Day of the African Child at ’The Jakaya M. Kikwete Youth Park’. This is one of the biggest youth parks in Dar Es Salaam opened in October 2015 by the president of the United Republic of Tanzania. This is compared to other sports venues, which are entirely developed, as they have artificial football fields, for example, which is uncommon by Tanzanian standards.
The event was created for children, which means lots of colours, laughter, and fun. But these colourful balloons weren’t blowing up themself alone. Decorating was one of our tasks at the event, followed by judging and conducting the reading and drawing challenges, taking pictures and collecting video footage, doing face painting, acting as a mascot, and participating in various sports challenges, such as football games and basketball matches. Supporting all these activities, helping to arrange the obstacles, and cleaning up, we concluded our day at the event quite well.
But next to the hard work (for some, it was a tough day, especially for our athletes and mascot volunteers), there was a lot of joy for everyone as the participating kids organised several performances, from traditional Tanzanian dances to singing performances. Additionally, reputable sponsors such as UNICEF or the Tanzanian government provided us with refreshments during these efforts, including lunch breaks. Next to the events were several stalls offering nutrition education, brief health checks, and technology companies showcasing their electronic devices.
All in all, this day was quite diverse, as it was a long and exhausting day for everyone who participated, comparable to working at an exhibition. Even more thankful was everyone for Mama Neema’s already prepared food in the evening at home.
For more information, you can look at the Wikipedia entry.
If you want to see more pictures of that day, visit the Facebook page of Atte Leskinen Photography
