By Alex Kalama
A community-driven initiative has been launched in Malindi to keep young people active during the long holiday season and steer them away from drug abuse and idleness.
The program, organized by Okoa Malindi Community Based Organization (CBO), brings together children, youth, and even elders in a series of outdoor activities ranging from cycling and skating to beach soccer and swimming.
According to Mohamed Nassor Clay, Chairperson of Okoa Malindi, the initiative was born out of concern that the November-January school break leaves many young people idle.
βAn idle mind is the devilβs workshop,β he said, stressing that the program aims to provide structured activities to prevent youth from falling into drug abuse, which remains a major challenge in Malindi.
Clay explained that the weekly activities not only keep youth engaged but also prepare them for competitions.
βIf a young person cannot play football, they can cycle, skate, or swim. The goal is to ensure no child is left idle in the streets,β he added.
Beyond social impact, he noted that such events also attract tourists, boosting Malindiβs local economy.
Farihani Abdulkadir Mohamed, Secretary of Okoa Malindi CBO, emphasized that the initiative is a collective effort by community members. The first edition of the program is being held at Buntwani Waterfront Park, featuring sports, academic quizzes, and cultural games.
βWe want our children to be ambassadors of good behavior in their homes and neighborhoods.
Schools play their role when open, but during holidays, it is the communityβs responsibility to guide them,β he said.
Registration for the competitions is free, with parents encouraged to bring their children to sign up at the park.
The finals are scheduled for December 21 at Buntwani Waterfront Park.
Organizers have appealed to stakeholders, county government and national government to support the initiative financially and include it in annual budgets to ensure sustainability.
Ali Shabani, Vice Chair of Malindi Cycling Club, highlighted the health benefits of cycling, which has been incorporated into the program.
βCycling is one of the best exercises, helping prevent conditions like arthritis. It also instills discipline and resilience in young people,β he said.
Shabani praised parents who, despite economic hardships, have invested in bicycles for their children.
He noted that the sport has drawn participants as young as four years old and attracted visitors from Mombasa and Kilifi. βCycling pays.
If taken seriously, it can be both a career and a source of livelihood,β he added.
The Okoa Malindi initiative reflects a broader vision: to nurture responsible citizens and future leaders by keeping youth engaged, healthy, and away from destructive habits.
Organizers believe that with full support from stakeholders and government, the program can become a permanent fixture during school holidays in April, August, and December.
As Malindi grapples with the challenges of drug abuse and youth idleness, the communityβs proactive approach offers hope that the next generation will be healthier, more disciplined, and better prepared to lead.
