A major community outreach programme unfolded in Kiandutu, Thika’s largest informal settlement, as the Moyo Wa Huruma Project continued its mission of feeding, mentoring and guiding children during the long school holiday.
The initiative, run by the Susan Gitau Counseling Foundation in collaboration with Africa Nazarene University (ANU), Five Star Paradise Community, Action for Children in Conflict (AfCiC) and other partners, has seen its impact grow steadily over the last three years. What began with about 300 children now supports over 1,000, offering meals, clothes, career guidance and life-skills coaching throughout the holiday season.
Project founder Dr. Susan Gitau, a lecturer at Africa Nazarene University, said the programme is driven by the desire to keep children in Kiandutu safe, engaged and hopeful.
“This is the third year we are feeding the children during the long holidays and teaching them life skills. We do not want our children to end up in the streets where they risk arrest, exploitation or falling into crime. Many come from homes where basic needs like food and clothing are not guaranteed,” she said.
RELATED VIDEO: Moyo Wa Huruma | A Community Project Feeding 1,000 Children and Mentoring Youth in Kiandutu.)
Dr. Gitau added that her own upbringing in Kiandutu inspired the initiative.
“I grew up 200 metres from here. I know what it means to lack food, decent clothing and a nurturing home. That is why I am committed to doing something for that little child, so they can become someone.”
She appealed for stronger support and collaboration from both government and local partners.
“If the government can channel some of the food support they have into vulnerable neighborhoods like this, it will reduce crime and abuse significantly,” she said.
Several organisations have joined hands with the programme to keep it running. Dr. Bethelhem Tadesse, a volunteer partner, said support from groups like Five Star Paradise Community has been essential.
“They responded to our call and donated about 15 to 20 bags of clothes and shoes. For us, supporting a community is part of our purpose. We believe in standing with each other,” she said.
The programme also receives weekend feeding support from a local church group, ensuring continuity when weekday sessions end.
Africa Nazarene University representatives were present to offer mentorship and career guidance. Dorothy M. Oroche, a marketing officer at ANU, said the institution is committed to character, competence and community.
“These students are eager to learn, and we want to show them what is possible. ANU offers various scholarships—including sports, academic and work-study opportunities, so they can access quality education and later come back to uplift their communities,” she said.
Chair of the ANU School of Business, Githii Kagwathi, said the project aligns deeply with his passion for mentorship.
“When I look back, many of us never had mentors who could paint a picture of what our future could be. If we can open the horizon for these young ones, we change the trajectory of the entire community,” he said.
Among the day’s mentors was Brian Adero, an ANU work-study beneficiary and basketball scholarship student, who shared his personal journey from a troubled childhood to university life.
“I grew up in a very difficult environment and struggled with school fees. But the scholarship programme helped me stand on my feet. I am here to show these children that their background does not define their future,” he said.
Brian said his experience fuels his passion for giving back.
“I know what it means to feel stuck. That’s why I mentor these young ones, so they can rise to their potential.”
As the number of children continues to grow, the foundation is appealing for additional support from the Thika business community and well-wishers.
Dr. Gitau emphasised: “If you see fewer children in the streets of Thika, know this project is part of the reason. Milk, cereals, clothes, anything you can give makes a difference. Christmas is coming, and we will be back here celebrating with them.”
The project hopes to expand its reach while maintaining quality and sustainability.
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