Lutheran School Kibera
Based in the compound of a Lutheran Church in Nairobi's Kibera slums, the Lutheran School is supported by Vision Africa.
The story of the school was brought to our attention by Vincent, chairman of Kibera Mpira Mtaani, as part of the work done following the January 2008 post-election clashes. In a reaction towards statements made in the media about churches, the school was set ablaze in January and lost its roof, windows and ultimately the use of the classrooms. On a visit to the school we found the children sitting outside to learn although they have also been using a charred room in the church.
After discussions with the Lutheran church, it was agreed that Vision Africa would seek funding to re-roof the school, replace the windows that were blown out in the fire and add steel doors to secure the building. Thanks to our supporters generosity the money to do this was quickly raised and the work completed. This allowed the children back into the classrooms where they continue with their education.
The school has been in operation for about 25 years and had a role of 80 children. This dropped dramatically as a result of the clashes but the numbers have crept back up and they hope they will eventually reach their capacity again. Those parents who can afford to pay a contribution are charged school fees out of which the teachers can be paid; the church has been trying to subsidise this and provide some food for the children. However, even before the clashes of January 2008 the school and church were struggling to make ends meet.
Touched by the story and the enthusiasm and attitude of the headteacher, Vision Africa immediately took on this school as part of our feeding programme. All the children are now given one hot meal a day – and for some this may be the only meal they will get some days. The headteacher reported a great improvement in the children within the first few days as they are able to concentrate more on their studies as they are not as hungry.
In addition to the feeding programme, Lutheran school has been added to our child sponsorship programme. This contributes towards the feeding programme and allows us to pay school fees for the most needy children. We also provide sponsored children with a uniform, school bag and shoes. To date we have found sponsors for around 30 children – our supporters are making a great difference to the lives of these children in Kibera.
If you would like further information about this school or would like to make a larger gift to support this project please contact the Kenya team using our contact form.
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Updated: September 2009