Jirani Project: The Children

Lucy's Story

Lucy was a 10 year-old girl living in Kenya. She was orphaned when both of her parents died of AIDS and tuberculosis. She is not alone. By 2010 in sub-Saharan Africa, there will be an estimated 18 million children orphaned by AIDS. There are currently 1,100,000 AIDS orphans in Kenya alone (Source: UNAIDS and UNICEF, 2006).

Lucy was living in the slums of Nairobi with relatives who could not make ends meet. She almost died of starvation in her grandmother's care. Many children live on the streets, begging or scavenging for food, exposed to drug use, and susceptible to disease and physical abuse.

Sponsors became jiranis to Lucy in 2005. As a result, Lucy is now enrolled in a primary school in Kenya. She has the shelter, food, tuition and clothing she needs. Her guardian is one of her aunts, who can now care for her properly. Lucy is one of many children from similar circumstances who are currently under the care of The Jirani Project.

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The Jirani Project is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and all donations are tax deductible. Your gift of any amount will be received with gratitude - Asante sana!

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Success & Sustainability

As a result of the post-election violence that engulfed Kenya from late 2007 through early 2008, it has been estimated* that the overall unemployment rate in the country has risen from 21% to a staggering 40%. Sixty-four percent (64%) of the overall unemployment in Kenya is comprised of youths 14 to 24 years of age. A weakened Kenyan economy and the cost of higher

education are sited as the two main causes of youth unemployment. *Source: UN.org

The Jirani Project works to ensure that all sponsored children receive the education and skills training they need to be successful and contributing members of Kenyan society. Our hope would be that these children, once freed from the cycle of poverty and unemployment, will help to create a more sustainable Kenya, and one day assist other children from similar circumstances in the process.

We are both pleased and proud to announce that four of our Jirani young people have recently graduated their respective programs, and have achieved their immediate goals for employment. Congratulations to our Jirani graduates:

Lilian Nandeya

Lilian recently completed her coursework in Early Childhood Education, and is now a graduate of St. Gabriel Teachers Training Centre. She is now a teacher near her home in Western Kenya.

Gladys is 21 years old and currently attends a training college where she is number 1 in her class!

Gladys Imali Specializing in garment making and design, Gladys graduated from St. Benja's Tailor Training Centre at the top of her class. Her plans for the future are to be self-reliant and use her skills "to the maximum."

Lucy is 20 years old and attends a beauty trade school.

Lucy Wambui

Lucy completed her hairdressing and beauty course at Beauty Point College, and is now the owner of a small beauty shop at a local shopping center.

John recently completed his trade education in electrical engineering.

John Indimuli
After successfully completing all trade levels in electrical engineering, John is now working in various major government institutions as an electrician. He is self-reliant and determined to "make it in life."

New teacher, Lilian, in her classroom

Meet the Jirani Children