The challenges of Kibera
Kibera, often referred to as "Forest" or "Jungle," is a division within Nairobi, Kenya, and is home to the largest slum in the city, as well as the largest urban slum in Africa. With a population estimated to range from 500,000 to over 1,000,000 people, Kibera faces immense socio-economic difficulties. The majority of its residents live in extreme poverty, earning less than $2 per day, with high unemployment rates and limited access to basic services. Diseases caused by poor hygiene, scarce clean water, and prevalent cases of assault and rape further compound the challenges faced by the community.
Schooling in Kibera
Education is a pressing concern in Kibera, as the lack of affordable schools leaves many children without access to quality education. Most education centers are classified as informal, and the government's efforts to establish regulated schools have been limited. However, various initiatives are underway to address this gap, with some schools starting as babycare centers and gradually expanding. Olympic Primary School and other government schools, as well as church-owned and privately owned institutions, provide essential educational opportunities. Notable secondary schools and vocational training centers also exist, offering skills and empowerment to the youth.
Hope and Shine
At Hope and Shine, we believe that children in Kibera need more than just academic knowledge to thrive. That's why we focus on nurturing emotional skills, creating psychological safety, and fostering a supportive learning environment. Through engaging activities like theater and sports, we encourage self-expression, teamwork, and confidence-building. Our curriculum places emphasis on fundamental skills like reading, arithmetic, and English, with a special focus on Swahili, the local language.
We understand the importance of addressing the basic needs of our students. Thus, we not only cover academic training, but also provide nutritious meals to ensure that our students have the energy to learn and grow. By providing a safe and supportive environment along with a comprehensive educational program, we aim to break the barriers of poverty and equip the children of Kibera with the tools they need to create a brighter future.
With only $10 per month you can make a huge difference for the life of a child in Kibera.
