Friends of Ngong Road

We empower Nairobi children living in poverty to transform their lives through education and support, leading to employment.

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Madaraka Day and Kenya’s Independence

Madaraka Day and Kenya’s independence

Every year on June 1st, Kenyans celebrate Madaraka Day and Kenya’s independence one of the country’s most important national holidays. The word “Madaraka” comes from Swahili, meaning “power” or “authority,” and it marks the moment in 1963 when Kenya gained internal self-rule from British colonial rule, similar to how Americans commemorate the Fourth of July as a declaration of independence.

For Kenyans, Madaraka Day and Independence day is not just a public holiday, it’s a symbol of freedom, resilience, and national pride. It represents the first major step toward full independence and the right for Kenyans to govern their own political, economic, and social affairs.

Across the country, people gather for celebrations led by the President, often held in large stadiums. These events include reflections on Kenya’s journey to self-governance, military parades by the Kenya Defence Forces showcasing strength and discipline, as well as vibrant cultural performances featuring traditional music, dance, poetry, and drama. It’s a beautiful display of Kenya’s diverse heritage.From colonial rule to self-determination, Madaraka Day and Kenya’s independence stands as a reminder of Kenya’s courageous journey toward freedom and the power of people coming together to shape their own future.

Madaraka Day and Kenya’s independence

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James, an entrepreneur

A successful entrepreneur is a dreamer who never gives up, and James is living proof. As an alumnus of the program, James has transformed obstacles into stepping stones, thanks to a solid foundation of education and support.

Growing up, his family struggled to make ends meet, and paying for school was often a challenge. But in 2007, James joined the program, which lifted the education burden off his family’s shoulders. With school fees no longer a constant worry, he poured himself into his studies and started building a better future.

After completing high school, he received a diploma in Information and Communication Technology.

Then he further honed his tech skills at Shalom IT Centre, earning a CompTIA A+ certification, a credential that validates foundational skills in IT such as networking and cybersecurity fundamentals. Familiarity with IT gave him an upper hand later in his business. His career began at our program, where he volunteered in the computer lab before becoming a full-time lab assistant from 2016 to 2022.

In 2023, James took a bold leap, launching Chalo J Design and Printing, a business that brings his

creativity and tech to life. Alongside this venture, he co-runs a children’s clothing business with his spouse and continues to grow through new work experiences.

“The support I got from the program gave me the confidence to pursue my ideas and turn them into something real.” ~James

James’ story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when dreams meet opportunity. With the continued backing of people like you, many more young lives can follow in his footsteps.

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Meet Two NRCF graduates From Training To Thriving Careers

Thanks to your generous support, dreams that once felt distant are becoming real. Two of our recent graduates, Nashon and Susan, are examples of what’s possible when underprivileged children are empowered through education and support. Their stories reflect the impact of your support.

Nashon, Web Programmer:

Nashon joined the program in 2007 with a simple but powerful goal: to change the course of his life through education. After completing primary and secondary school, he pursued a diploma in Automotive Engineering, drawn by his love for mechanics and how things work.

His passion for technology continued to grow, leading him to make a bold shift into the world of programming. Today, Nashon is working as a web programmer, applying his skills to create innovative digital solutions and proving that with the right tools, anything is possible.

“The program gave me the opportunity to dream bigger. Education opened the door, and now I’m using technology to shape a future I once thought was out of reach.” ~Nashon

Susan, Field Officer:

Susan’s inspiring journey began in 2008 when she joined the Ngong Road Children Foundation (NRCF) program. Growing up in a family facing constant financial hardship, Susan was determined to rise above her circumstances. With the right support from NRCF, she completed both her primary and secondary education—an opportunity that changed the course of her life.

In 2021, Susan joined college to pursue a diploma in Community Development and Social Work, which she successfully completed and graduated from. Today, she works as an field Officer for the TechCraft program at CFK Africa. There, she empowers unemployed youth in Kibera, Nairobi’s largest informal settlement, by equipping them with digital skills and hope for a brighter future.

“I wouldn’t be where I am today without the program. The support I received gave me the confidence and tools to dream bigger and work harder,” says Susan. Rising from humble beginnings, she is now not only financially independent but also making a lasting impact in her community. Her story is a powerful reminder that with opportunity, determination, and your support, transformation is possible—for one child, one family, and an entire community.

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Empowering Post-Secondary Graduates through Computer Training

Ngong Road Children’s Foundation (NRCF) remains dedicated to transforming the lives of vulnerable children through holistic and impactful programs. Among our many successful initiatives is the post-secondary computer training program. This program specifically targets high school graduates who are currently awaiting their transition to colleges and universities. We designed this program to equip students with essential computer literacy, digital skills, and technical expertise required for academic, professional, and entrepreneurial success.  

As we progress through 2025, this year’s post-secondary computer training is already underway within our dedicated computer laboratory. We have partnered with Diakonia Training Institute, a respected institution that provides high-quality technical and vocational training to young people in Kenya. This collaboration ensures that the students benefit from a well-structured and industry-relevant learning experience.

The curriculum covers various topics. Students begin by mastering the fundamentals of document processing, then advance to the critical area of database management. 

The goals of this carefully crafted curriculum extend beyond simply teaching software applications. They are driven by key objectives aimed at empowering our students to thrive in today’s data-driven world:

  • Provide students with practical knowledge and hands-on skills in key computer applications.
  • Enable learners to apply technology-driven solutions to real-world problems.
  • Prepare students for the digital job market by teaching in-demand computer skills.
  • Foster critical thinking, creativity, and efficiency in ICT-related fields.
  • Equip students with digital skills that will ease their transition into post-secondary education by enhancing their ability to conduct online research, create presentations, complete projects, and collaborate effectively.

Through this comprehensive program, NRCF is laying a strong foundation for our students’ future success. By equipping them with essential computer literacy and in-demand digital skills, we are empowering them to become confident and capable. We are empowering them to become confident and capable. We are transforming their lives and equipping them to bring positive change within their communities.

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Meet Edmond, an aspiring lawyer

My name is Edmond, and I joined the Ngong Road Children’s Foundation in 2014. Before joining the program, life was challenging for my brother and me. We were under the care of our aunt, who had her own child, which made it difficult for her to meet our basic needs. She struggled to afford food, shelter, and school fees for all three of us. Fortunately, my aunt learned about NRCF and the impact it has on providing education to underprivileged children. Desiring a better life for me, she sought their support. She applied, and after the interview process, I was accepted into the sponsorship program.

I completed my primary education at Nelson Mandela Primary School, where I built a solid foundational knowledge. I then transitioned to Agoro Sare High School for my secondary education, a time of further learning and personal development. During this period, I actively participated in transformative programs offered by NRCF, including life skills training and mental health awareness.

I worked hard academically and achieved a B grade in my secondary school examinations, graduating from high school in 2024. This achievement is particularly meaningful to me as it symbolizes a victory over the challenges my brother and I encountered in our early years. In addition to my academic pursuits, I have always enjoyed playing football and the mental challenge of solving puzzles.  These hobbies provide a welcome balance to my studies.

Looking toward the future, I have a strong aspiration to pursue a degree in Law at the University of Nairobi. The dedication and exemplary leadership of the current president of the Law Society of Kenya, Faith Odhiambo, serve as a powerful inspiration for me. Therefore, I hope to contribute to the justice system and make a positive impact on society through law.

The support I have received from NRCF has been invaluable throughout my journey. I am deeply grateful for the opportunities they have provided. I want to thank the organization and my sponsor for investing in me. They have not only supported my education but also nurtured my interests and aspirations. I am excited about the future and determined to make the most of the foundation that has been laid for me.

Join us in transforming lives!