SHOFCO

In the development world, "#community" is a term often thrown around loosely, sometimes used to describe a group of beneficiaries, and other times to denote a specific geographic area. But at SHOFCO and in my experience, "community" means so much more. Community is not just a group of people living in the same area; it’s a collection of voices, histories, ambitions, and challenges. Community, in its truest sense, is the heartbeat of development work. Too often, development organizations view communities as passive recipients rather than active partners. When nonprofits step in with this mentality, they strip communities of the opportunity to shape their own futures. This approach is a misstep because it assumes that development is something done to people, not with them. I believe the best development work begins with respect for the knowledge, resilience, and agency that already exist within a community. In fact, some of the most innovative solutions to pressing social issues come not from outsiders but from the people living in these communities every day. They are the ones most equipped to understand and address the root causes of poverty, inequality, and lack of opportunity. For example, our #aerialwaterpiping in Kibera is an innovative solution that originated within the community. Local communities hold immense knowledge and creativity in developing sustainable solutions. To say the least... The work we do at SHOFCO was born out of my own lived experience in Kibera, one of the largest informal settlements in Africa. I did not come to Kibera with an external solution; I was raised in this "ghetto" community and understood its challenges from the inside. This perspective shaped my approach to community development and set SHOFCO apart. From day one, we have worked with our communities, recognizing that they are the architects of their own change, not passive recipients of aid. To learn more about SHOFCO, our work, our journey for the past two decades and our unique model of community-led development, join me and my dear friend, Nyokabi Kamau Prof., as we take a deep dive into my book, "Find Me Unafraid." #Engage #Inspire #Empower #Transform

In Tande Village, Siaya County, SHOFCO is supporting local farmers to invest in #sustainablefishfarming. These hardworking subsistence farmers, often working on small parcels of land, are finding new hope through the Osiengo water pan, which is transforming lives! With 3,000 tilapia fish currently stocked, the community is working towards reaching the pan's 10,000-fish capacity in the coming months. This initiative is not just providing food security but also unlocking economic opportunities for the residents. Spare a few minutes to listen to their inspiring story. #SUNpower #sustainablefarming

Today, I welcomed 22 Members of Parliament from Uganda to SHOFCO, where we shared insights into our work transforming communities. I emphasized the power of #strategicpartnerships— not just with governments but with the heart of the community itself. True change happens when we connect with local people, village elders, chiefs, and county and national government agencies. Community organizing is at the core of this work, and building trust and creating a shared vision with the people we serve is a top priority. When communities see themselves in the vision, real transformation begins. #communityorganizing #communityleddevelopment #EACcommunity

Yesterday, I had the privilege of connecting with our Savings and Credit Cooperative Organization (SACCO) community members in Mukuru informal settlement to discuss something close to my heart—#financialliteracy during our SACCO Education Day. Financial education empowers individuals to make informed choices, save wisely, and envision a more secure future. At SHOFCO, we’ve seen firsthand how financial literacy is transforming lives. Our SACCO enables anyone, regardless of background, to save and invest in their future. Personally, financial inclusion means more than just access—it means opportunity! I believe that no one should be held back because of where they were born. Through the community work we do at SHOFCO, I have seen firsthand that if you empower people with the right tools, and they put in the work, and dare to dream, they can turn their misery into opportunities. You see, years ago, when I encouraged my team at SHOFCO to begin saving, and to allow the community members to borrow from their contributions, I never knew that we would be able to have this profound impact in the lives of millions of Kenyans. Today, I’m seeing stories of real transformation—boda boda riders now driving vans, community members who once struggled financially now building homes both in Nairobi and in their rural towns. Mama Mbogas (green grocers) owning successful businesses in the city. They’re not just surviving; they’re thriving 👇. This is what financial empowerment looks like: when one person's #DREAM inspires a whole community to rise together. I want to dedicate my life to creating opportunities for people, so those who work hard and believe in change can experience tremendous positive transformation. As the very first member of our SACCO (Member No. 1), I’ll keep stressing that our work in financial access and inclusion is all about #DIGNITY! #FinancialAccess #SHOFCOSACCO #FinancialInclusion

Did you know that SHOFCO partners with local communities to drive socio-economic change and transformation? Through open forums and dialogue, we collaborate with SHOFCO Youth Leaders and Community Based Organizations (CBOs) to raise awareness about the importance of community-based advocacy and the power of local partnerships. We believe in the power of communities in finding solutions to their challenges. #SUNPower #SHOFCOYouth #Warriors #CBOs

As exams begin early next week, we’re cheering on all students across the country, especially our hardworking SHOFCO girls at #KSG and #MSG! Education opens doors to new possibilities, and every step forward is a step closer to a better future. Keep pushing, stay focused, and let your hard work speak for itself. You’re making us proud! We wish all of you success! #Exams2024 #EmpoweringGirls #FutureLeaders #KSG #MSG

In case you missed the 2024 Kindergarten Graduation at the Kibera School for Girls #KSG, here are some of the highlights. It was a joy to witness our young learners celebrate this significant milestone in their educational journey. #BorntoShine

Today, our young learners at Mathare School for Girls (MSG) marked a significant milestone as they graduated from kindergarten awaiting transition to Grade 1 in 2025. We were honored to have our CEO, Kennedy Odede, and Fiona True, join us to celebrate this special occasion. #BorntoShine

Did you know that we need gender champions in our local communities now more than ever? These trained individuals are essential for promoting gender equality and inclusion. By raising awareness about the negative impacts of gender-based violence (GBV/SGBV) and advocating for preventive measures, they help create safer environments for everyone. Empowering gender champions also contributes to improved mental health, workplace productivity, and the overall well-being of our society. When everyone feels safe and respected, we foster communities where everyone can thrive. #Genderchampions #TrainingGenderChampions

Happy Mashujaa Day!