After 15 years of partnership anchored in empowerment and people-led development, ActionAid Kenya has officially handed over its long-term community empowerment initiatives to the people of Makima Ward, marking a major milestone in the community’s development journey.
ActionAid Kenya began working in Makima in 2010, partnering closely with residents to build resilience, strengthen grassroots leadership, and promote rights-based development.
What started as a development intervention has steadily evolved into a self-sustaining community movement defined by confidence, accountability, and collective action.
Today, Makima stands out as a community that understands its rights and actively engages duty bearers.
Residents are more economically empowered, better organised, and increasingly united in shaping their own development agenda. Community-led structures now play a central role in decision-making and oversight, helping to safeguard the gains achieved over the years.
The impact of the partnership is visible across key sectors.
In education, children now learn in safer and more supportive environments following improvements in school infrastructure and enhanced community participation in school management.
These developments have not only improved learning conditions but also restored dignity and hope among learners and their families.
Access to clean and reliable water has also transformed daily life in Makima.
Once a major challenge, safe water is now available to many households, significantly reducing health risks and easing the burden on women and children who previously spent long hours fetching water.
With basic needs better met, families are now better positioned to focus on livelihoods and long-term economic growth.
Through collaboration with the county government and local authorities, ActionAid Kenya has also contributed to a reduction in cases of gender-based violence, female genital mutilation, and other atrocities against women and girls within the community, strengthening protection and promoting gender equality.
Speaking during the official handover ceremony, ActionAid Kenya Executive Director Samson Orao reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to people-powered development.
He noted that sustainable change is achieved when communities take full ownership of solutions that affect their lives, describing Makima’s progress as a strong testament to this approach.
Mbeere South Deputy County Commissioner John Marete praised the partnership, noting that as ActionAid Kenya steps back, the people of Makima are stepping forward with confidence.
He emphasised that the government will continue to provide support as the community takes charge of its future, guided by local leadership, knowledge, and unity.
The handover was marked by celebrations reflecting gratitude for the journey shared and optimism for the road ahead.
While challenges remain, Makima now enters a new chapter—one defined by local ownership, strong advocacy, and a community ready to lead its own development.
