04.12.2024 – In November 2024, we traveled with a six-person team, consisting of Christoph Busch, Wanja Greuel, Shahni Naeem, Shiraz Naeem, Chris Pfeiffer, and Stefan Vos, to Nairobi. The goal of the trip was to assess the progress of our charity initiatives on-site, exchange experiences, and plan the next steps for the coming year with our partners.
A Country Full of Challenges – and Hope
Kenya, a country with around 55 million people, faces enormous social and economic challenges. Especially alarming is that over 18 million people live in extreme poverty. In the capital, Nairobi, which has a population of around 5 million, more than 60,000 children are homeless, with about 10% of them being girls. These girls are particularly vulnerable to becoming victims of violence and abuse due to gender-specific risks.
Our visit was not only to better understand the situation on the ground but also to see the concrete progress of our Project 5 (Transition House for Girls) and the first milestones for Project 6 (Education Center).
Insights into the Projects: Transitioning to a Better Life
Transition House for Girls
The Transition House is more than just a shelter – it is a safe space for girls who have lived on the streets. Here, they not only find a roof over their heads but also psychological support, education, and a chance at a new perspective. What stood out was how dedicated the pedagogical professionals were in supporting the girls. They create structures, provide stability, and work with the residents on individual paths toward independent lives.
Education Center – The Key to Independence
A highlight of the trip was the visit to the under-construction Education Center, which will offer practical training opportunities to rehabilitated youth starting in 2025. The importance of this project became even clearer to us on-site: Education is the key to self-sufficiency and thus to long-term improvement in living conditions.
In intensive discussions with our partners, including I Africa and the Helping People Foundation, we discussed the implementation details. We were particularly impressed by the local partners’ enthusiasm for the project and their clear vision: to create a center that not only imparts vocational skills but also life skills and support for entering the workforce.
Personal Impressions and Moments of Inspiration
The trip was deeply moving for all of us. The encounters with the children and young people, their stories, and their courage left a lasting impression. Despite the difficult circumstances, we felt hope and incredible resilience everywhere.
Looking Ahead
The trip not only motivated us but also highlighted the urgency of our engagement. While Project 5 is nearing completion, there are still significant tasks ahead for Project 6. We are determined to raise the necessary funds and realize these important projects together with our supporters.
Thank you to everyone who is accompanying us on this journey. Together, we are creating sustainable change—and offering hope.
