Build Africa hailed for its simple and effective programmes
11 September 2011
By Alfred Itunga
Nairobi, Kenya
As part of a trip by the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress of London to Kenya looking into ways in which ties between London and Kenya can be strengthened, the Lady Mayoress took a visit to the Build Africa Kenya office in Nairobi. She was accompanied by Mrs Rosemary Sermon, the wife of the Sheriff of London, and Muthoni Koinange from the British High Commission.
The Mayoress applauded Build Africa’s work. On the Building Livelihoods programme, she said “It is a very impressive and inspiring programme, a simple idea but it works”. She hailed it for its innovation and self sustaining achievement which she distinguished from aid-reliant programmes. She said “It is so empowering for the community, and it goes away from giving aid to the community”.
Mrs. Bear also praised the strategy of involving pupils in school management affairs and the peer education which aims to have the children act as mentors to their fellow pupils. “It is such a good idea (peer education) since pupils will listen to others”
The Mayoress was moved by a presentation by Mrs. Kimani, who is a teacher in Echariria Primary School, and Patron of the school’s Health Club, which is one of the Build Africa supported school in Naivasha. She said that she has been able to address many issues in her school through the Health Club. This has not only earned her praise in the community but also recognition of her achievement by the Kenyan Ministry of Education.
The Mayoress also commented on the generosity of Build Africa supporters. She said “I am proud that all this good work is supported by the citizens of United Kingdom.”
Mrs. Bear donated books for use at Build Africa supported schools.