From rustlers to harvesters: Kamuru’s transformative journey with FCA Kenya

In the sun-soaked lands of Kamoru village, through which the Kerio River winds its way, a tale of transformation is unfolding, weaving together the resilience of a community and the unwavering support of FCA Kenya. Chemerkow Longorok is a farmer from the Kakapul Youth Group, whose life story mirrors the metamorphosis of Kamoru itself.

“Not long ago, we used to rustle cattle just to look rich.The knowledge of farming was scarce, and the sun’s harsh rays made the fertile land seem inhospitable. Then, a ray of hope appeared in the form of FCA Kenya.FCA Kenya changed everything,” reflects Chemerkow as he shares the story of Kamoru’s evolution. 

With FCA’s guidance, the community formed the Kakapul Youth Group and received a generator, a lifeline to pump water from the nearby Kerio River. Chemerkow reflects, Now, we can farm as a group, even without rain.”

Armed with newfound knowledge and a generator provided by FCA, the group turned barren lands, once tread upon for illicit gains, into flourishing maize fields. Chemerkow proudly expresses gratitude, saying, “I am so thankful to FCA for training and the generator. “This village was full of poverty and hunger.”

Faced with few challenges, the group, now 15 members strong, faces a hurdle—insufficient pipes to efficiently channel water from the river. Chemerkow notes, “We’re requesting FCA Kenya for at least two more generators. It will make watering plants easier for 15 people.”

Looking ahead, the group dreams of diversifying crops, moving from maize to vegetables and fruits for a balanced diet. They aspire to be a beacon of hope, supplying food to reduce hunger and poverty in the village.

Chief Benjamin Kasetem, from Koyowa location, expresses gratitude, “We’re so thankful to FCA for supporting this group. We’ve received a lot of support to farm even without rain.”

Beyond the fields, Chemerkow’s commitment extends to his family. With two wives and 15 children, he proudly shares that his firstborn is now attending high school. “Education is the key to breaking the chains of poverty,” he emphasises.

Charles Pandu, the peace coordinator for FCA Kenya, echoes, “in nurturing peace, we sow the seeds of prosperity and hope for communities like Kamuru. FCA’s commitment extends beyond immediate needs, fostering sustainable change.”

Text: Daisy Obare

Uniting through football: transforming conflict in Kerio Valley through livelihood support to youth.

In the heart of the once tumultuous Kerio Valley, Tot Football Club emerged not just as a team on the field but as a force of change, fostering peace and empowerment among the youth. Kevin Kemboi Kimtai, the club’s patron, reflects on the remarkable journey that transformed not only the landscape of Endo Ward but also the lives of the community.

“Kerio Valley was well known for its conflicts and theft, with roads in disrepair, creating an environment of uncertainty. Recognising the transformative power of football, we founded Tot Football Club in 2018,” shares Kevin. “Our belief was simple: football has the ability to unite people and break down barriers.”

The impact was immediate and profound. The youth, facing numerous challenges, found a common ground on the football field. What started as a small club quickly grew as other groups formed, driven by the desire for positive change. Amidst this backdrop, FCA stepped in as a catalyst for transformation.

“FCA’s involvement went beyond the pitch. They not only brought peace but also introduced livelihood programmes that would change the lives of the youth,” explains Kevin. The youths, numbering 300, seized the opportunity to request support in building their own livelihoods. FCA responded by training them and providing cows to 35 individuals, each forming a group. This was not just about livestock; it marked a shift towards economic independence for the youth. Challenges were met collectively, with the chief playing a pivotal role as the custodian of the cows.

Beyond the game, the impact continued. When drought struck, FCA supported the team in acquiring a machine to process maize stocks for animal feed. “Now, we’re not just a football team; we’re a self-sufficient community. With 22 litres of milk daily, they sell to the community and nearby hospital, creating a sustainable cycle of support within the community,” Kevin proudly declares. The money they collect is shared among themselves after deducting animal feed. Besides, they also support children who are not able to pay school fees.

Since the introduction of cows, job opportunities have been created, children are healthier through drinking milk, and the youth have set a good example for others in the community. As a way of giving back, they help underprivileged children access education by paying their school fees.

Kevin envisions a grand future for Tot Football Club. He states, “one day, Tot Empowerment Club will be the leading dairy producer in the Kerio Valley, courtesy of FCA.”

Tot Football Club, originally a symbol of unity on the field, has evolved into a beacon of hope and empowerment. The team’s goals extend beyond mere victories; they play with a purpose, striving for peace, resilience, and a brighter future.

Kevin and his team eagerly anticipate a future where the echoes of past conflicts are replaced by resounding cheers of triumph. This transformation is attributed to the impactful influence of football and the steadfast support provided by the FCA.

Text: Daisy Obare

Empowered Voices, Resilient Women, Leading Change in Baringo County

In Baringo County, a group of resilient women is defying societal norms and rewriting the narrative of what women can achieve. Miriam Mengich, a dedicated member and secretary of the Jerusalem Kolowa Women Group, has played a pivotal role in leading a group of determined women on a journey of self-reliance and positive change.

The Jerusalem Kolowa Women Group, founded in 2014 as a prayer group within the church, quickly evolved into a dynamic force for economic and social empowerment. Miriam recounts their humble beginnings, stating, “We started a table banking system, pooling funds and providing loans to our members with a 10 percent interest return. This initiative kick-started the financial independence of our members, enabling them to establish small businesses and become self-sufficient.”

As the group expanded, they introduced a social fund in which an additional amount of KES 50 was raised to support members facing challenges such as paying school fees or coping with the loss of loved ones. The impact of their efforts became evident, with all members successfully initiating and sustaining their small businesses through the support of the table banking system.

The pivotal turning point for the Jerusalem Kolowa Women Group came in 2016, when FCAKenya learned about their inspiring story. Impressed by their achievements and dedication, FCA funded the group with KES 160,000, propelling the women’s businesses to new heights. Miriam emphasises, “the financial support from FCA allowed our members to expand their businesses, resulting in increased profits and improved living standards.”

With 18 members currently, the group has become a beacon of hope in their community, challenging societal norms that traditionally limit women’s ownership and knowledge. Miriam proudly notes, “other women in our society are now following our example, and even husbands are encouraging their wives to join the group.”

Diversification for impact

Group ventured into outside catering services, targeting organisations implementing projects in their county. The profits generated from these services are saved and shared among the members at the end of the year, further boosting their individual businesses and supporting education and housing initiatives.

Miriam enthusiastically shares, “thanks to FCA, we now own nine beehives, and we plan to sell honey at the end of the year. We have also established a nursery school in our village, creating job opportunities and providing education to the community’s children.” The impact of FCA’s support is evident in the group’s achievements, from educating children to building permanent houses for all members.

Women asadvocates for Peace

The women of Jerusalem Kolowa are also advocates for peace and community development. Actively engaged in educating people about the importance of peace, the group sends members to promote peaceful coexistence. Additionally, they host holiday sessions to educate girls on life skills and combat female genital mutilation (FGM), contributing to a significant reduction in FGM cases.

While celebrating their achievements, Miriam acknowledges the challenges they face. The group seeks additional financial support to further empower their members, expand their tent rental business, and enhance school facilities. Their overarching goal is to challenge stereotypes and prove that women can be catalysts for positive change within society.

FCA’s broader Impact

Under the Peacebuilding and Livelihood programme, FCA extends its support to other groups like Cheluche and Amani Women Groups. These groups, too, received valuable assistance in the form of livestock, such as goats, significantly contributing to their economic empowerment. Building on the success of the Jerusalem Kolowa Women Group, these groups have embraced table banking, fostering financial independence among their members.

Monica Yano, the Chairlady of the 17-member Chelule Amani Women Group, expresses her gratitude, saying, “the support from FCA has not only provided us with tangible resources like goats but has also empowered us to take control of our financial future through table banking. This has had a positive ripple effect on our livelihoods and, by extension, our community.”

A Vision for the Future

FCA’s Peacebuilding Coordinator, Charles Apondu, sheds light on the broader impact of their initiatives in Elgeiyo Marakwet, West Pokot, and Baringo counties. With a focus on peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and livelihood projects, FCA addresses resource-based conflicts driven by cattle rustling, climate change-induced droughts, and other challenges leading to insecurity.

Over the past eight years, FCA has been a steadfast presence, involving women and girls in their peacebuilding initiatives. Apondu emphasises, “including women is crucial for the sustainability of our processes. Women and girls are key contributors to community dynamics, and their involvement ensures that our efforts have a lasting impact.”

In the last two years alone, FCA has closely collaborated with 16,000 community members in Baringo County, providing support in reconciliation, peacebuilding, and livelihood enhancement. The success of these initiatives wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Finland, a key partner in implementing these transformative projects.

Text: Daisy Obare

Empowering lives: Rael Kipyego’s journey with Boryotwo self-help group

In the serene landscapes of Elgeyo Marakwet, 35-year-old Rael Kipyego, a resilient mother of two, reflects on a time when life was a constant struggle. “I used to be a stay-at-home mom, waiting for my husband to bring food. Most nights, hunger became our companion as he struggled to make ends meet,” she shares.

Everything changed for Rael when she joined Boryotwo Self-Help Group with the support of FCA Kenya. “Now, I can provide for my family. This group has become our lifeline, allowing me to educate my kids and ensure they stay healthy with proper food and milk,” she beams.

Boryotwo Self-Help Group, comprising 20 members, initially started as a table banking initiative, a testament to their determination to uplift themselves. “We heard about FCA from local leaders and decided to join. Last year, FCA gave us a cow, and today we have two cows and two calves. We sell milk, and our kids enjoy the rest,” Rael explains.

The group meets weekly, not just for financial discussions but also to address critical issues. Purity Malel, the livelihood officer at FCA Kenya, emphasises, “Our approach to promoting peace involves targeting women and mixed groups. We empower them with diverse income-generating activities, including agriculture, capacity building, market linkage, and financial support.”

Rael shares the challenges they’ve faced, from misconceptions about their milk to dealing with droughts. However, their unity prevails. “During droughts, we’ve decided as a team to plant more grass on our homestead. Despite challenges, the partnership with FCA and the Kenyan government has been a game-changer. Our cows receive prompt veterinary care, and our once-thin cows now look healthy,” she proudly states.

Looking ahead, Rael encourages more women to join self-help groups, emphasising the impact of training. Joseph Kiptum, a veterinary officer from Elgeyo Marakwet, collaborates with FCA to empower women. “We provide training to improve livelihoods, combat climate change, enhance economic well-being, and reduce cattle raiding,” he explains.

Through Rael’s inspiring journey, it’s evident that the collaboration between FCA Kenya and local communities is not just about financial support but a holistic approach to empower individuals, transform communities, and promote sustainable peace.

Dandora, the infinite landfill where plastic is a way of subsistence

A global treaty to eliminate single-use plastic is decided in Nairobi, but at the Dandora landfill, a few kilometers away, thousands of people work in unhealthy conditions to be able to recycle it and make a living.

Entering without wellies is daring, but a young man walks in flip-flops. The soil is not soil, but an amalgamation of crushed black plastics resulting from rain mud. The trenches made of raffia bags act as walls that flank the only human passage. In some areas there are – perfectly aligned by color – blue plastic milk bottles, green beer bottles and liters of wine, but it is not common. 

Once you reach the end of the path, the only option to move forward is to climb the mountains of garbage carefully. Resting your hands is not recommended. From above, you can see how a Mercedes Benz truck arrives and opens its side door. A dozen people gather on it with their empty bags, ready to collect valuable material accompanied by the attentive gaze of the marabouts who crowd over the piles of shit.

Jeanette Ogola , at 38 years old, has been coming to work every day for ten days at Dandora, the main landfill in the city of Nairobi . Opened in 1976 with funding from the World Bank to improve sanitation in the Kenyan capital, the site has continued to expand and is estimated to now cover 12 hectares. In 2001 they said there was no more garbage, but more than twenty years later, more and more people like Jeanette continue to come to it to make a living. 

Every day she collects tupperware , plates, bottles, glasses and all kinds of disposable plastics, but she has less and less to offer her six children in the face of competition. “Before we filled a truck with two people, now there are between 20 or 30,” she explains. «Although there is more plastic and the price per kilo has increased, I charge less. “Before I earned 700 shillings –4.24 euros–, but now I only earn 400 shillings –2.42 euros–.”

One of the people who has joined the work in recent years is Molivia Otieno . “She was my only option,” she says. At 26 years old, a child of five and without a job after having cleaned in private homes, he decided to go to the landfill a year ago. There, the nearly 6,000 people who work do so in unsanitary conditions , surrounded by broken glass bottles, syringes and toxic fumes coming from burned garbage. To Read more: https://www.climatica.lamarea.com/dandora-vertedero-plastico-kenia/

FCA Kenya handing over emergency relief kits to families displaced by floods in west Pokot County, with the support of UNICEF Kenya in 2019.

Effective preparedness and response efforts are essential to minimize the adverse effects of weather events and and other humanitarian crises. With funding from UNICEF, FCA Kenya has developed a comprehensive approach to address the potential impacts of El Niño events on vulnerable populations in disaster-prone areas.

Comprehensive Contingency Planning

El Niño is a natural climate phenomenon that can lead to wetter conditions in East Africa.  As a result, rainfall during the October -December rainy season are predicted to be above average, which is likely to lead to flooding in various parts of the country.

FCA Kenya, in partnership with UNICEF, is planning to mitigate the impending adverse effects of the predicted flooding to the affected population.

Marsabit, Samburu, Baringo, and West Pokot have been identified as priority counties likely to experience flooding. Based on historical data, it is estimated that 54,000 people could be affected. FCA Kenya and UNICEF are therefore working together to develop contingency plans with various partners in these priority counties that can be activated in the event of flooding.

The plans will address the potential impacts of El Niño on the idenitified areas. This will include risk assessment, early warning systems, preparedness and response teams, communication, resource mobilisation, community education and engagement, and post-emergency assessment and recovery.

Emergency Response Supplies

FCA Kenya has positioned essential non-food items in high-risk areas to facilitate an immediate response in the event of flooding. These items include jerrycans, menstrual hygiene management kits, plastic buckets, and water purification tablets. Such emergency supplies are crucial in providing swift assistance to the affected population across the five counties.

Advocacy and resource mobilisation

FCA Kenya is actively involved in lobbying and advocating for funding to support El Niño preparedness activities. Collaboration with donors and partners is instrumental in securing the necessary resources for immediate and long-term interventions.

Prioritizing Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH)

Building on previous partnerships with UNICEF, FCA Kenya has expanded its water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) activities. These efforts aim to ensure safe water supply, sanitation facilities, menstrual hygiene management kits, and hygiene promotion in high-risk areas such as Samburu, Marsabit, and Garissa counties.

FCA Kenya is dedicated to enhancing the resilience of vulnerable communities to cope with the potential impacts of El Niño. This commitment is realized through training and capacity-building support for community members, health workers, and community leaders. These efforts equip these individuals to respond effectively to the challenges posed by El Niño. In this regard, FCA Kenya and UNICEF will support this communities till March next year.

Text: Daisy Onkoba and Duncan Kimuli

Communities in Elgeyo Marakwet County are finding themselves at the intersection of climate change and conflict. FCA and local partners’ peace work is building bridges as well as resilience.

As environmental conditions change, traditional pastorialists are finding their livelihoods literally dry up. With prolonged droughts, they struggle to find the grazing lands to feed their cattle. Disputes over dwindling resources often lead to conflict and even longstanding traditional institutions designed to mediate in these situations are struggling in the face of persistent tensions.

It’s a complex crisis that Finn Church Aid with its partners is facing head-on. A coalition with Saferworld, International Alert, World Vision, Pokot youth Bunge and the Catholic Justice and Peace Department is working with local government to not only mitigate tensions but build resilience among communities so they can adapt to the changing climate conditions.

Climate action in Elgeyo Marakwet Conty wears many faces. It means advocating for real policy for sustainable resource management at a government level, but it also means that climate sensitivity is considered at every level of programme work, so that the potential for conflict is minimized.

This can take form in the FCA-supported peace and environment clubs in the county, where youth come together to share ideas and make plans for improving their environments. Or it can be seen in the peace committees we support in the wider community, who act as early warning mechanisms when conflict looms. With dispute prevention and mediation training, the committees also have tangible tools to address conflicts at their inception.

Furthermore, we and our coalition of partners works hard to promote alternative livelihoods, supporting initiatives like high-value crop cultivation, mango value chain promotion, and beekeeping. These offer communities options beyond their traditional livelihoods, enabling them to diversify their income sources.

There’s also water projects, like the Arpollo Borehole, designed to ensure the equitable distribution of resources shared among many people. The borehole is earmarked to supply water to Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, and Baringo (Tiaty) and signifies a key commitment to addressing the scarcity of this most precious resource.

County Commissioner of Elgeyo Marakwet County John Korir, Chief Officer for Peace and Disaster Response Lawrence Kutun, Deputy Governor of West Pokot Robert Komolle, and other representatives from our partner organizations joined a group of women in performing a dance during World Peace Day. PHOTO: DAISY OBARE / FCA

On this year’s World Peace Day, key figures, including the County Commissioner, Chief Officer for Peace and Disaster Response, Deputy Governor of West Pokot, and representatives from our partner organizations came together to emphasise their commitment to investing in livelihoods and education in order to promote peace.

FCA's Right to Peace Coordinator Charles Opondu, addressing the public during World Peace Day
FCA’s Right to Peace Coordinator Charles Opondu, addressing the public during World Peace Day. PHOTO: DAISY OBARE / FCA

At the event, Charles Opondu, FCA’s Right to Peace Coordinator, underscored FCA Kenya’s pivotal role in facilitating dialogues between communities and authorities to find solutions to their challenges.

Meanwhile, Lawrence Kutun, Chief Officer for Peace and Disaster Response in Elgeyo Marakwet, was on hand to acknowledge the substantial progress made in the region’s peace efforts over the past six months, thanks to efforts from organizations like FCA.

For FCA, peace is a prerequisite to human rights. Find out more about our peace work in Kenya (https://www.fcakenya.co.ke/what-we-do/right-to-peace/)

Text: Daisy Obare

FCA Kenya and Fallohide Studio partnered at an event designed to introduce Creative Industries students to exciting new technology

At a recent event in our Nairobi training centre, students enrolled in our pioneering creative industries programme experienced virtual reality and augmented reality technologies, thanks to a leading Kenyan production studio, which specializes in so-called Extended Reality or XR.

Creative industries students learning about virtual reality and augmented reality technologies
Creative industries students learning about virtual reality and augmented reality technologies

From virtual reality headsets to phone apps that allow you to digitally interact with the live environment, XR is nowadays an essential part of the creative design process. Fallohide Studio is a leader in the field and were on hand to guide our students through the limitless possibilities XR technology offers for creative expression and problem-solving.

A mix of graphic design, digital marketing, animation and web design students had the opportunity to use virtual reality headsets and explore how XR can enhance their creative work and drive innovation.

FCA is one of the only development organisations offering creative industries training to underprivileged communities. We see emerging technologies, such as XR as crucial for giving our students the edge when competing in the job market. We want them not only to dream big, but to turn those dreams into reality. Find out more about our Creative Industries programme

In a significant stride toward fortifying community resilience in the face of the climate crisis, FCA Kenya’s Country Director, John Bongei, along with governors from key Arid and Semi-Arid (ASAL) counties and representatives of various humanitarian agencies, including the World Food Programme (WFP), the African Development Bank (AFDB), participated in a roundtable discussion hosted by The County Government of Garissa and UNICEF Kenya. This partnership endeavor aimed to explore strategies against the harsh impacts of climate change.

Some of the delegates who attended included Garissa Governor Nathif Jama, Rebecca Miano (Cabinet Secretary for the East African Community, Arid and Semi-Arid Lands, and Regional Development), and Governors from neighboring counties, including Wajir, Mandera, Marsabit, and Tana River. Additionally, Isiolo Deputy Governor Dr. James Lowasa and other esteemed representatives graced the occasion.

Our Country Director, John Bongei, having a candid discussion with Garissa Governor Nathif Jama and Marsabit Governor Mohammud Ali after a roundtable discussion in Garissa. PHOTO: DAISY OBARE / FCA
Our Country Director, John Bongei, having a candid discussion with Garissa Governor Nathif Jama and Marsabit Governor Mohammud Ali after a roundtable discussion in Garissa. PHOTO: DAISY OBARE / FCA

During this event, John Bongei engaged in a crucial dialogue with Garissa and Marsabit Governors. They emphasized the role of education and the need for diversified livelihood activities in the two counties to possibly include creative industries in addressing climate change. Education, they concurred, serves as a potent instrument for comprehending, adapting to, and mitigating the effects of our rapidly changing climate.

“Education empowers communities to make informed choices, adopt sustainable practices, and prepare effectively for the environmental challenges that lie ahead. It’s a cornerstone in our collective effort to combat climate change,” Bongei said.

A visit to FCA’s Disability-Friendly Toilets in Garissa School

Our Country Director, John Bongei, along with a UNICEF representative and the head teacher of Garissa, inspect the recently constructed disability-friendly latrine, funded by UNICEF Kenya and implemented by FCA Kenya. Additionally, water tanks have been installed at Garissa Primary School. PHOTO: DAISY OBARE / FCA
Our Country Director, John Bongei, along with a UNICEF representative and the head teacher of Garissa, inspect the recently constructed disability-friendly latrine, funded by UNICEF Kenya and implemented by FCA Kenya. Additionally, water tanks have been installed at Garissa Primary School. PHOTO: DAISY OBARE / FCA

The day began with a visit to Garissa Primary School, where the delegates had the opportunity to witness an inspiring enrollment drive for the Out-of-School Program. Notably, this initiative aimed to mainstream and integrate learners with disabilities alongside their peers without disabilities, exemplifying the commitment to inclusive education.

With funding support from UNICEF Kenya, FCA Kenya constructed disability-friendly latrines and installed a water tank to symbolize improved infrastructure and our commitment to equal opportunities for all.

“These facilities have been designed and equipped to cater to the unique needs of individuals with disabilities, fostering inclusivity and creating a world where everyone has equal opportunities,” said Bongei.

Garissa Governor Nathif Jama stressed, “Efficient water resource management is paramount for the well-being of our communities in this region. Water is life, and we must ensure its sustainable use and access for all.”

Rebecca Miano emphasized the need for constructing additional dams to enhance water storage and food security. She stated, “The construction of more dams is a step towards securing our water resources and ensuring a more sustainable water supply for our communities.

The partnership between FCA Kenya and UNICEF Kenya exemplifies their dedication to making a lasting impact on the communities they serve. Through partnerships, they aim to create a more inclusive society where no one is left behind.

Text: Daisy Obare

HONOURING THE HEROES WHO SHAPE OUR FUTURE

In a world where information flows abundantly and knowledge is accessible at our fingertips, a group of unsung heroes have dedicated their lives to shaping our minds and nurturing the seeds of literacy. On this International Literacy Day, we take some time to celebrate and appreciate the invaluable contribution of teachers around the world.

As we access a wealth of information with a few taps on a screen, it is easy to take for granted the ability to read and write. However, behind every literate individual stands a teacher who has played an indispensable role in their development. Many of us can trace some of our interests as adults to our earliest memories, which were formed in school. Stepping through the door of a classroom sparked curiosity and a sense of wonder in learning new concepts and ideas.

Nurturing Literacy from Early Childhood

Take a moment to remember your journey as a child learning to read. Don’t you have special memories with teachers who took time to patiently, although sometimes not very patiently, guide you through the complexity of language, helping you understand words, comprehend stories and kindling your desire to explore the written word?

While we may only remember a few teachers, who were exceptional and made a lasting impact on our lives, it’s critical to acknowledge that every teacher, whether in a bustling city or a remote village, is making a difference. Teachers consistently make sacrifices and invest their time, energy, and passion into moulding the minds of the next generation, even in the face of numerous challenges like limited resources and overcrowded classrooms.

Unwavering Commitment and Passion for Teaching

For instance, Ms. Samantha Mwangome, a teacher at Morningstar Primary School in Kalobeyei Settlement Scheme – Turkana County, expresses a longing for her family who are in Kilifi County.

“…….. the hard part is that I miss my family…, yes, I enjoy it here and I was welcomed well, but these are all strangers….”

Kilifi is a two-day journey from Turkana. While Samantha was excited about moving to Kalobeyei and is passionate about teaching and interacting with children, her passion does not come without a cost. A shared cost, borne by both her and her family, as she selflessly imparts knowledge and mentors children in Kalobeyei.

“I love working with children. They are so innocent and they are able to open up about their problems. As a teacher they trust you and believe in you. It makes you a role model and gives you a lot of responsibility”, says Samantha

Samantha Mwangome, teaching in class
Samantha Mwangome teaches Kiswahili to refugee learners in Kalobeyei Settlement.
Photo: Björn Udd / FCA

Samantha’s emotions resonate with the sentiments of many teachers across the country. Individuals who dedicate their time, often at the expense of their loved ones.

The Key to Empowering the Next Generation

Teachers are the key to empowering the next generation. This International Literacy Day gives us an opportunity to not only express our gratitude but to also recognize the urgent need for supporting teachers. To advocate for fair compensation, opportunities for professional development and provision of resources that empower them to excel in their roles. When teachers are empowered, they, in turn, empower their students, thus creating a positive cycle of learning and growth. These educators are indeed the backbone of our education journeys and serve as the light that illuminates our path to brighter futures.

As we celebrate International Literacy Day, we cannot forget role of teachers, the unsung heroes of literacy who have dedicated their time to nurture knowledge and wisdom. We invite you to support and partner with FCA Kenya to invest in a future where education continues to thrive and shine as a beacon of hope and progress.

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Text: Faith Inyanchi