Reflections from the Giving for Change Annual Convening on Community-Led Development
September 25, 2025
KCDF Newsletter, September 2025
October 13, 2025Following the successful conclusion of our recent Education Campaign, KCDF looks forward to supporting deserving students across the country. This will enable them to join universities and tertiary institutions without the financial burden that often hinders access to higher education.
In Busia County, these milestones have been made possible through our partnership with Dhamira Moja CBO, a grassroots organisation committed to community development. Through this collaboration, 10 bright and ambitious students (8 in universities and 2 in tertiary institutions) will receive full tuition support as they embark on their academic journeys in institutions nationwide. Each student will receive comprehensive support, including tuition fees coverage, additional assistance for upkeep, life skills development, ICT training, and accommodation throughout the semester.
Sarah Martha, the Executive Director of Dhamira Moja, emphasised the life-changing potential of the scholarship programme, “We are giving these students financial assistance and a second chance to pursue their dreams. Some of them have been out of school due to lack of fees, and we’re here to break that cycle of poverty,” she said.
What sets this initiative apart is its holistic approach. Beyond covering tuition, the program is designed to support students throughout their academic journey. Through Dhamira Moja’s social enterprise programmes, students will be engaged in community service and hands-on training, helping them gain practical skills aligned with their areas of study and opening doors to opportunities such as internships and job placements.
The support will be renewed annually, based on academic performance and discipline, ensuring continued assistance for committed students. Since 2009, Dhamira Moja has consistently invested in education, sponsoring high school students and empowering teen mothers through technical and vocational training across the county.
Parents expressed deep gratitude for the initiative. Gabriel Makokha, whose daughter is a second-year student at the University of Nairobi, shared, “This is the breakthrough we’ve been waiting for. She has missed exams before due to unpaid fees. Now, she can focus fully on her studies.” Juliet Wamalwa, another parent, added, “I’ve struggled for so long looking for support. This opportunity means everything to us.”
The students, too, shared their determination and optimism. Jordan Masinde, studying Information Technology at Tom Mboya University, said, “This scholarship has removed a major barrier. I want to prove I’m worth the investment and later return to help my community.” Jemimah Amoit, pursuing Medical Laboratory Science at Alupe University, added, “The pressure of school fees is now behind us. I encourage others who struggle to apply for such opportunities whenever they arise.”
At KCDF, we believe education is a powerful tool for community transformation. Through strategic partnerships and targeted support, we continue to invest in young people, ensuring that no bright mind is left behind due to financial constraints.
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