Suqoon’s “Spreading Joy” Event Shines Light on Elderly Care at Mji wa Huruma
Suqoon, a leading organization advocating for dignity and care for the elderly, hosted a heartfelt event dubbed “Spreading Joy” at Mji wa Huruma on Tuesday, bringing together key partners, government officials, and volunteers in a powerful show of solidarity with Kenya’s senior citizens.
The event, held at the government-run Mji wa Huruma home in Nairobi, saw an outpouring of support, donations, and emotional tributes to older persons—many of whom live in solitude and with limited resources. The gathering was not only a celebration of life and legacy but also a call to action to uplift the living conditions and dignity of the elderly in institutional homes.
Addressing the guests, Suqoon’s founder Shakira Khawaja emphasized the importance of compassion, inclusion, and structural support for the aged population, echoing the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH): “He is not one of us who does not show mercy to our young and respect to our elders.”
“We are here not just to visit or donate — we are here to spread joy, to stand with those who so often stand alone. Growing old should come with peace and dignity, not as an afterthought, but as a priority,” said Khawaja
Special acknowledgment was given to Mr. Peter Ochieng, Head of the Family Promotion & Social Welfare Division at the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, for his continued collaboration with Suqoon on policy support for the elderly. The Nairobi City County Government’s Social Services Sector, led by Chief Officer Tony Michael Kimani and his team, was also praised for their openness and dedication to elderly welfare — notably for organizing a dignified funeral for a recently deceased resident.
Among other standout partners recognized during the event were:
Agewatch Africa – the bridge that connected Suqoon to Mji wa Huruma.
CPF – for renovating the home’s kitchen and planting commemorative trees.
Head Start by Aisha – providing grooming services to restore confidence among the elders.
Zuri Health – conducting medical checkups to ensure the elders’ well-being.
Ram-G – whose team led deep cleaning efforts at the facility.
Stirme Tea – for adding warmth to the gathering with tea and conversation.
Additional contributors included Pankaj Social Services (foodstuff donations), the Chandaria Foundation (bedding and blankets), and Hamat Healthcare, led by Dr. Tasneem Nurani, one of Kenya’s few geriatric specialists.
Suqoon also announced its ongoing renovations at St Mary’s Home in Sagana and pledged future support to improve conditions at Mji wa Huruma.
The event ended on a reflective note, with the founder recounting a moving moment from a past visit when an elder quietly expressed, “Thank you for remembering that I still exist.”
“This is what we are here for,” she concluded. “To show our elders that they are seen, remembered, and loved”.
