OUR HEROES

Our heroes are agents of change. They initiate first steps and decide which problems to tackle. As members of the very communities they wish to improve, our heroes have the street creds that are vital for community acceptance.

This systemic approach promises lasting improvements because stakeholders come from within.

Tyson Omondi Otieno - Catalyst for change in Kibera through Kijiji Solutions

Tyson Omondi Otieno

In the midst of the challenges that define Kibera, Tyson Omondi Otieno's story unfolds with a quiet determination and a commitment to making a difference. Raised in Karanja Village, Tyson's early life was marked by the loss of his parents at the age of five. Taken in by his relative, Uncle Rogers, Tyson grew up in a three-bedroom house shared with his 3 siblings and 9 cousins.

Tyson's journey through education wasn't without its hurdles. Despite the financial strain, he managed to secure loans and earned a degree in applied statistics and computing from the University of Eldoret. However, the reality of limited job opportunities awaited him, in a world where connections often dictated employment. Tyson's story took a turn however, when he secured a scholarship to the Tunapanda Institute in Kibera. At the institute, Tyson delved into photography and video production, channeling his newfound skills into documenting sporting events. This marked the beginning of his commitment to giving back to the community that shaped him.

In collaboration with journalist Bernard Ochieng in 2021, Tyson initiated a project to empower young single mothers in Kibera who had been overlooked and lacked essential skills. SOKA Samaritan, their brainchild, aimed to equip these mothers with photography and videography skills, offering them a chance to earn a living.

Beyond providing practical training, Tyson and Bernard sought to instill a sense of self-worth and a belief in a brighter future. Since its inception, SOKA Samaritan has graduated 60 participants from their 8-week course, with 20 securing paid contract opportunities.

Formally registered as a Community-Based Organization in August 2023, SOKA Samaritan continued expanding its reach. In addition to media training, the organization now runs feeding programs for children and provides menstrual health education for girls. SOKA Samaritan's impactful endeavor addresses immediate needs within the community.

Tyson's is also a founding member of the Kijiji House Team. Leading the "vertical gardens initiative," Tyson tackles the challenge of limited space in Kibera by demonstrating how innovative solutions, like vertical gardening, can thrive even in the tightest spaces. This initiative aligns with Kijiji House's broader mission of finding practical solutions for the everyday challenges faced in the slums.

Tyson is an exceptional guy from Kibera who is using his skills to improve the lives of those around him. As Kijiji Solutions supports Tyson in his efforts, it's a reminder that change begins with individuals quietly working towards a better tomorrow. In supporting Tyson through Kijiji Solutions, we contribute to the incremental progress and hope for the residents of Kibera.

Photo courtesy SOKA SAMARITAN INITIATIVE

Mtaa Safi Initiative

Waste Management and Community Development

Mtaa Safi Initiative (MSI) is a waste management and community development group run by young men and women who are committed to improving the conditions of life in Gatwekera Village.

At its heart, MSI is an environmental organization. Motivated by climate change and need for a healthier environment, the MSI team sensitizes their neighbors to respect their environment. Kijiji Solutions regards the MSI Team as true heroes, fighting extreme odds with minimal resources and great heart.

Like most informal settlements, Kibera lacks municipal waste collection resulting in a massive sea of trash that overwhelms every corner of the slum. Soiled ground and waterways impact hygiene and the well-being of all residents.

Accomplishments

MSI’s dedicated team of volunteers conducts weekly waste collections for over 500 households.
MSI recycles plastics and responsibly disposes of the remainder at county approved dump sites.

MSI has partially restored an abandoned public washroom which provides toilets and shower stalls to residents.
Hauling away the refuse and scrubbing down the filthy facilities has restored 2 of the 8 toilets and 2 shower stalls.
Despite these modest improvements, the MSI washroom already serves over 100 people each day.

Kibra Youth Unite Against Crime

Crime Watch Network and Waste Management

Makina Village has a reputation for crime and violence. Official statistics are lacking as is anything approaching adequate policing. Mob justice often prevails. A crime as petty as stealing a carton of milk can result in murder at the hands of a mob.

Kibra Youth Unite Against Crime (KYUAC) was founded by a group of young men and women whose approach to crime prevention is non-violent. They are easily spotted as they routinely patrol markets and other hotspots. The group is credited with reducing theft. Being on alert and calling on one another prevents mugging and rape.

Accomplishments

KYUAC has formed a Crime Watch Network.
Innovative use of phones and text chat groups allows group members to alert team mates, local businesses, and police.
A "Share My Location" feature instantly notifies Crime Watch Network members of troublesome incidents.

Wana Umoja Committed Youth

Waste Management and Youth Engagement

Wana Umoja Committed Youth (WUCY) collects household waste and conducts river clean ups in Silanga. Kibera is divided by 2 rivers and numerous small streams that are choked with floating plastic and contaminated effluent. WUCY organize river cleanups where stepping on floating trash and falling in the water is an added risk.

Accomplishments

WUCY members haul heavy sacks of waste from deep within the alleys of Silanga, including waterways.
WUCY sorts the collection into recyclables and non-recyclables. Sadly, there is no county approved dump site for non-recyclables in WUCY's service area.