2011 was a very tough year for Kenyans. Drought racked the land and food prices rocketed, leaving most people struggling to eat three decent meals a day. Concern Worldwide is there, providing support to those who need it most.
According to economic experts, food prices may ease slightly in the new year. Overall though, prices are set to remain high.
Hard life
Far removed from the predictions of economic experts are the residents of Nairobi’s vast slums who are struggling to put food on the table for their families.
Grace, a social worker, explained how hard life has been for Nairobi’s slum residents:
Most of our beneficiaries are engaged in odd jobs like washing people’s clothes. They earn between 70 to 150 shillings [roughly one euro] a day. These people are just surviving and certainly not living how they should be.
Charity work in slums
I visited one of Concern’s partners, the Redeemed Gospel Church in Korogocho slum, Nairobi. Since 2009, we have been working with this organisation to give almost 1,500 families cash grants, support and training to help them set up their own business.
Hope for the future
Meshack is one of the people who received cash grants and business training from Concern. Because of this, he can now send his children back to school. He looking to the new year with hope. He says:
2011 has been a tough year and business hasn’t always been good…But I have great plans for this year. I want to boost my business and at least buy a machine.
Distributing cash
Watch this video to find out how our cash transfer programme works:
Watch the media here.
Making a difference
This is a difficult time for people living in slums in Kenya. But thanks to our supporters, we have been able to help thousands of people. We’re dedicated to continuing this work for as long as it is needed.