Helping the Sengwer Tribe of Kenya work their way out of poverty
Things we've done: Projects funded by Sengwer Aid
All help and support is introduced slowly and sensitively and is in line with what the community as a whole are asking for. Care is taken to ensure that every single penny donated to Sengwer Aid will benefit the community and be spent wisely.
Sengwer Culture & Information Centre (SCIC) at Kapolet
Money was raised to fund the building of a large community building, used as a centre for the Sengwer community from near and far. The community built the Centre themselves, a huge task that they are very proud of. It includes an office with internet, a museum to preserve language, culture and traditions; also collection & preservation of plants and trees for herbal medicines. A great place for groups to meet and hold workshops, e.g. women’s groups, youth groups, Leaders groups. Dormitory accommodation, useful for those who have walked 3 days to get there.Eco-Tourism Project
In the grounds of the SCIC, several traditional grass-thatch mud houses built to accommodate visitors to the area. Local people ensure visitors are warmly welcomed and make them comfortable during their stay.Water Projects
Grants given to enable Water Committees at Kapcherop, and also at Kapolet, to harness gravity-feed water and pipe it down for community use. Helpful in so many ways: women no longer have to carry heavy water for long distances, easy access for domestic use, livestock, irrigation, health needs.Sengwer Women’s Jewellery Co-operative
Money was given to the group to start a jewellery making business. The project is now thriving and has been so successful that the women now also lease a plot of land from their profits to grow and trade maize.Goat & Chicken Gift Cards
Gift cards are sold which tell the lucky recipient that they have been bought a goat or a pair of chickens which has been given to a Sengwer family in need; a gift that will last and grow. Eggs and milk help when food is scarce and can also be sold to generate much-needed income.School Twinning Projects
Exchange of drawings, letters and questions between Sengwer and English children to enable cross-cultural friendship and understanding.AIDS / HIV Training & Awareness
Training was set up for 1 man & 1 woman; they spread the message to their community of ways to stay safe. As yet there is relatively little problem in this rural area, but incidences are increasing.Small grants
Financial assistance to a variety of small projects, all run by registered committees, e.g. Kamoi Health Centre, Maize Farming Co-operative, Kayech & Kalya Womens Groups selling 2nd hand clothes, Athletics Coaching Camp, Tree Nursery, Uniform and Shoes to Primary School children.
Water available where it is needed
"Once we were lost...
but now we have hope."