Bishop Kaisamari Hintikka’s visit unveils FCA’s impactful initiatives

Our director, Tomi Järvinen, Vice-Chair Bishop Kaisamari Hintikka, and a delegation of Finn Church Aid supporters are welcomed by women groups in Kerio Valley undertaking peace and livelihoods interventions supported by FCA — Our director, Tomi Järvinen, Vice-Chair Bishop Kaisamari Hintikka, FCA Kenya Country Director John Bongei and a delegation of Finn Church Aid staff and supporters are welcomed by women groups in Kerio Valley undertaking peace and livelihoods interventions supported by FCA. **PHOTO: Daisy Obare**

In a recent week-long journey marked by purposeful engagements and a shared vision, Bishop Kaisamari Hintikka of Finland, alongside FCA Executive Director Tomi Järvinen and a distinguished delegation, explored various regions of Kenya.

The visit aimed to gain insights into FCA’s programmatic work, showcase the power of collaboration and shared purpose, and leave an indelible mark on the communities visited.

The week began with a symbolic Sunday service at the Kenya Evangelical Lutheran Church in Oliorum, Kajiado County. FCA’s global leadership, including Tomi Järvinen and Bishop Kaisamari, participated in this spiritual event, setting the tone for the week.

Exploring Kakuma: unveiling humanitarian initiatives

The delegation engaged in courtesy calls with the Department of Refugee Services (DRS), gaining a comprehensive overview of Kakuma’s current humanitarian landscape. Visits to FCA-managed primary and secondary schools in Village 3 showcased the impact of FCA’s educational initiatives. Immersed in vibrant programs, the delegation connected with teachers, parents, and learners. The day extended to a host community school supported by FCA, fostering connections with the local community and aligning efforts with national strategies through a courtesy call to the Deputy County Commissioner.

Insights into UNHCR and local initiatives

Pictures from a field visit to Kenya by major supporters of FCA, Executive Director Tomi Järvinen and Vice Chair of the Board, Bishop Kaisamari Hintikka Pictured: Järvinen and Hintikka meeting with Edwin Chabari, Camp Manager, for Kakuma-Kalobeyei, in his office.

A significant meeting with UNHCR provided valuable insights into the situational report for Kakuma/Kalobeyei refugee operations. A visit to the LEAP-supported school Towokayeni brought forth human stories behind FCA’s impactful interventions, emphasising the community-centric approach.

Strategic peace meeting with local youth and women talking circle in Elgeyo Marakwet

The visit witnessed a shift towards peace-building initiatives in Elgeyo Marakwet, engaging with local peace groups such as Cheluche and Amani Mbele Women Talking Circles. The day illuminated the transformative power of community-led initiatives.

The delegation’s presence also featured a meeting with HE Rachel Ruto and the Governor of the County Government of Elgeyo Marakwet Wisley Rotich, aligning efforts with strategic leaders in the Kenyan landscape. Simultaneously, the team engaged with the Tot FC Youth Group, delving into sports for peace and livelihood activities for youth.

Sustainable practices and creative ventures

The group later visited the FCA Creative Industries program centre, witnessing firsthand how FCA is mentoring youth in digital skills for a sustainable future.

FCA’s Commitment to local initiatives

Finn Church Aid Executive Directors and other delegates from Finland paid a visit to TakaTaka Solutions’ recycling plant in Limuru. The visit showcased the entire waste management process, highlighting FCA’s commitment to supporting waste pickers with livelihood, protective gear, insurance, and more.

Quotes of the day

“Our visit to Kenya has been a journey of enlightenment, revealing the resilience and strength within communities. It’s a testament to the transformative power of collaborative efforts and a shared commitment to building a better future.” – Bishop Kaisamari Hintikka

At FCA, we believe in the potential for positive change when hearts and minds come together. The experiences shared during our visit to Kenya reaffirm the importance of our mission, emphasizing the impact that collective action can have on creating sustainable and meaningful transformations.” – Tomi Järvinen, FCA Executive Director

“Working with women and youth groups has allowed us to witness firsthand the impact of our collective efforts. The dedication and spirit of the communities we’ve engaged with highlight the potential for lasting change. It’s a reminder that every action, no matter how small, contributes to building resilient and empowered societies.” – John Bongei, FCA Kenya Country Director

Text: Daisy Obare

At the age of 13, Ken Amimo was compelled to attend school for the first time in 2019. It was a significant moment in his life. Placed in class 5, his age didn’t align with his academic knowledge, lacking basic literacy skills. Despite this challenge, he persevered for a year before circumstances led him to drop out, returning to the familiar yet harsh environment of the streets.

Transformation through FCA Kenya’s “Back to School” project

In September 2022, Lokuto Primary School underwent a transformative change with the introduction of the FCA Kenya’s “Back to School” project, funded by UNICEF Kenya. Despite being in a densely populated urban center, the school had remarkably low enrollment, totaling only 138 learners from grades 1 to 8 at that time. To address this challenge, the school Enrolment Drive Committee (EDC) was established, focusing on back-to-school campaigns at the community level. Through the persuasive efforts of the EDC, Deputy Head Teacher Mr. Alfred Kioko, and the school’s teachers; Ken was convinced to leave his street life and rejoin the educational system at Lokuto Primary School.

Despite his age and the time spent out of school, Ken’s determination, coupled with support from teachers and fellow students, helped him reintegrate successfully. Ken lacked a uniform and learning materials upon his return, but fellow learners donated a school uniform, and teachers provided learning materials while encouraging him to stay in school. Upon re-entry in September 2022, Ken was placed in class 7 (the last class in the 8-4-4 system since he couldn’t fit in the new system). The Accelerated Education Program supported Ken through remedial lessons, aiding his preparation for the KCPE exams despite joining school late. The school feeding program ensured Ken had food at school, even though it was lacking at home. UNICEF’s supply of education kits and school bags further facilitated the re-enrollment process, ensuring Ken and his peers had the necessary tools to thrive academically. Additionally, mentorship sessions proved invaluable, offering emotional support and guidance to learners like Ken. As a result of these interventions, Ken not only sat for his KCPE exams but also aspires to attend a reputable secondary school, dreaming of becoming a pilot and shaping his future.

The impact of the “Back to School” program extended beyond Lokuto Primary School. Across 48 primary schools in Samburu Central and East sub-counties, FCA’s OOSC project successfully re-enrolled 4,380 out-of-school learners (2,468 boys and 1,912 girls) against a target of 3,900. Teachers, learners, Board of Management (BOM) members, and community members witnessed remarkable transformations due to the initiative. Increased school enrollments, improved facilities, mentorship sessions, provision of MHM kits/sanitary pads to adolescent girls, and the supply of learning materials contributed to the positive outcomes observed in these schools.

This success story from Lokuto Primary School exemplifies the profound impact of the OOSC project, not only in individual lives but also in the broader educational landscape of Samburu Central and East sub-counties.

The dedication of the School Enrolment Drive Committee, teachers, and the unwavering support from organizations like FCA and UNICEF have paved the way for a brighter future for these learners, ensuring that every child can access quality education and pursue their dreams.

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

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 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*

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

Empowering Communities Through Devolution: FCA Kenya’s Impact at the Devolution Conference

The annual Devolution Conference is a significant event that brings together key stakeholders, policymakers, practitioners, and communities to deliberate on matters of local governance, development, and empowerment. FCA Kenya was proud to be part of this year’s conference, which took place from August 15th to 19th, 2023, at the Eldoret Sports Club in Uasin Gishu County.

Under the theme of “10 Years of Devolution: The Present and the Future,” the conference provided a platform to reflect on the progress made in decentralization efforts and to strategize for the years ahead. FCA Kenya’s participation was marked by its vibrant exhibition stand located at booth numbers 90/91. The stand served as a hub for showcasing FCA’s impactful work, engaging with conference attendees, and fostering collaborations.

The FCA Kenya team seized the opportunity to engage with various stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organizations, development partners, and community members. The exhibition stand served as a platform to highlight FCA’s initiatives aimed at community development, empowerment, and positive change. Visitors had the chance to learn about FCA’s projects, interact with team members, and explore how FCA’s interventions align with the principles and goals of devolution.

A man standing in front of FCA exhibition stand having a conversation with a lady. — The Nairobi County Deputy Governor, H.E. Deputy Governor James Muchiri, visited the FCA exhibition stand and had a candid discussion with our fundraising officer, Faith Inyanchi, on the work of FCA and how we can strengthen our partnership. *Photo: Daisy Obare / FCA*

One of the most significant moments during the conference was the visit by H.E. Deputy President William Ruto, who took time to tour the exhibition stands. His visit to the FCA booth was a testament to the impactful work FCA is doing in various thematic areas, aligning with the conference’s focus on driving transformation from the local level.

A man standing talking to another man and a woman — Charles Apondu, FCA Kenya’s Peace Project Coordinator, passionately explaining the impactful work of FCA Kenya to eager participants. *Photo: Daisy Obare / FCA*

The conference provided an avenue for FCA Kenya to showcase its commitment to community empowerment, particularly in areas related to education, peace, livelihoods, creative industries, among others. The FCA team engaged in insightful discussions, knowledge-sharing, and networking sessions, contributing to the broader dialogue on devolution and its impact on local communities.

As the conference ended, FCA Kenya’s presence was felt beyond the exhibition stand. The interactions, connections, and insights gained will continue to shape FCA’s approach to community development and empowerment. FCA remains dedicated to contributing to the realization of devolution’s goals by ensuring that local communities are at the center of economic development and positive change.

The Devolution Conference 2023 was indeed a successful platform for FCA Kenya to showcase its commitment to fostering local development, empowering communities, and creating positive impact. As FCA continues its journey of transformation, the lessons and connections from this event will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the organization’s future endeavors.

Text; Daisy Obare