Our Impact

United Destiny Shapers (UDS) is transforming Kisumu's informal settlements through smart agribusiness, focusing on poultry farming, solar-powered irrigation, and women's financial empowerment. The organization has helped over 30 youth transition into agribusiness while addressing cultural barriers to women's land ownership. UDS promotes gender equity and climate resilience, aiming for a future where women and youth thrive economically and socially, free from violence and hunger.

Youth Voice. Youth Power. Youth Policy.

SHOFCO, in partnership with The Mastercard Foundation, empowers youth livelihoods in Kenya through community-based organizations (CBOs) by providing financial support and training, addressing high unemployment rates, and fostering local leadership to create tailored programs that enhance skills and economic opportunities for marginalized youth.

In the heart of Ngei, nestled within Nairobi’s sprawling Mathare settlement, a once modest library has transformed into a vibrant center of innovation, healing, and hope. At the helm is Sarah Ogolla, Chairperson of Inua Rise Together, a community-based organization (CBO) supported through SHOFCO’s national CBO strengthening initiative in partnership with The Mastercard Foundation.

Jecinta transformed her life from hairdressing to becoming a qualified automotive mechanic through SHOFCO’s Sustainable Livelihoods Program, which empowers young women with skills and mentorship. Her journey challenges gender norms and highlights the importance of investing in women's vocational training for economic growth in Kenya.

SHOFCO is improving Nairobi's healthcare by enhancing infection prevention and hygiene practices in hospitals, significantly reducing surgical site infections and cholera cases, while educating over 180,000 community members and improving sanitation access for thousands.

Across Kenya, SHOFCO, in partnership with The Mastercard Foundation, supports with Community Based Organizations (CBOs) that are deeply rooted in their communities—responding to urgent needs with creativity, courage, and care. Mombasa Young Mothers (MYM), is a women-led community-based organization working in Airport Ward, Changamwe Sub-County. Since 2019, MYM has become a powerful voice for adolescent and young mothers, many of whom have faced stigma, exclusion, and health risks for far too long.

Across Kenya’s informal settlements, a new kind of leadership is emerging—rooted in lived experience, driven by purpose, and backed by action.

SHOFCO’s COVID-19 response reached 1.8 million people in Kenya’s informal settlements with clean water, health screenings, food support, and accurate information. Together, we turned the tide on the pandemic and strengthened community resilience.

Fred grew up in Mathare, one of Nairobi’s informal settlements, where challenges like noise and financial struggles threatened his education. Discover how SHOFCO’s library provided the quiet space, resources, and support he needed to excel academically, paving his way to university and a brighter future.

Through SHOFCO Urban Network (SUN), local leaders and youth are creating pathways for peace in Kenya. From peaceful elections to uniting 2 million members, SUN is transforming conflict into collaboration for a stronger future.

Elvis McKenzie, a musician from Kibera, battled depression while pursuing his passion for music. Through SHOFCO’s mental health and financial literacy training, Elvis found the support he needed to heal and now helps others in his community find hope. Discover his inspiring story of resilience and transformation.

SHOFCO is bringing life-changing access to clean, safe water in Kibera, one of Africa's largest informal settlements. Through innovative infrastructure and partnerships, we’ve ensured that thousands of families can rely on a steady supply of clean water every day.

Esther Wanjiku from Mukuru turned her dream of fashion design into reality through SHOFCO’s free training. With $3, she started a tailoring business, now supporting her family and building a brighter future.