10,000 Scouts gather in Nyeri, Kenya to commemorate Founders Day
On 22 February 2025, Nyeri, a town in central Kenya, came alive as over 10,000 Scouts from across the country and further afield, including the United Kingdom and the USA, gathered to celebrate the 168th anniversary of Robert Baden-Powell’s birth, the founder of the Scout Movement. This annual event honoured the rich legacy of Scouting and reaffirmed Nyeri’s historical and symbolic significance as the place where Baden-Powell spent his final days and was laid to rest.
Under the theme “Inspiring Climate Change Solutions,” celebrations kicked off with a procession from Paxtu, Baden-Powell’s former residence at the Outspan Hotel. Scouts and officials then headed to the Baden-Powell Historical Gardens, where a solemn wreath-laying ceremony paid tribute to the founder. The day culminated at Dedan Kimathi Kamukunji Grounds, where thousands of Scouts showcased their unity and shared values through engaging programmes, such as awards ceremony to recognise the work done by various Scouts.
The ceremony was led by Brigadier Mohammed Farah, the chief guest, alongside Nyeri County Deputy Governor H.E. David Mwangi Kinanire Waroe. Key government officials, Maina Kiranga, Chairperson of the Africa Scout Committee, and representatives from the Ministry of Devolution, were also present, underscoring the widespread recognition of Scouting’s contributions to society.
In his opening remarks, Maina Kiranga emphasised the global significance of Nyeri and Paxtu to the Scout Movement. He highlighted ongoing efforts to raise global awareness of the Founder’s Day, noting that Nyeri, holds an enduring legacy that belongs to Scouts worldwide.
Brigadier Farah used his speech to emphasise the Movement’s role in shaping responsible citizens. He reiterated the Kenyan military’s support for Scouting, adding weight to its positive impact on youth development.
The event’s theme aligned with the World Scouting’s strategic goal of building a sustainable world where young people can thrive. As Africa faces increasing climate-related disasters, young Scouts are taking action to combat these challenges.
Two inspiring young Scouts from Kenya were recognised during the event for their efforts: Truphena Muthoni, 21, a sustainability musician and ambassador, who recently entered the Guinness Book of Records for hugging a tree for 48 hours to promote environmental sustainability and emotional well-being; and Alice Wanjiru, 11, a climate change ambassador, celebrated for planting over 20,000 trees since the age of 7.
Speaking during the celebrations, Allayah, a 13-year-old Scout, described her visit to Paxtu as feeling like that of going home. Her visit allowed her to connect with Baden-Powell, a figure she had always admired.
The Founder’s Day celebrations in Nyeri were part of global festivities, with millions of Scouts worldwide engaging in activities and sharing their experiences on social media to honour Baden-Powell’s enduring legacy.