Solar Lamps
The Nuru Fund originally set up by Gentoo Green, Sunderland, provided finance for us to buy in solar lamps for families who had no access to light after sundown. The families repaid the cost of the lamp over a period of time and the funds collected were then used to buy further lamps. Coordinator, Benson Oswago, subsequently visited Gentoo.
Water Filters
As school links have developed, there has been a desire by the UK school to raise funds to provide clean drinking water for schools. Water filters have been purchased and distributed by GrifAid. Pupils are trained on their use and how to care for the filters.
Guest House
The clinic at VIAGENCO in Western Kenya needed accommodation for volunteers. This was a major project and we had support from Gentoo Green who used their savings through recycling to provide funding. The guest house was finished and has been put to good use. Not only can it accommodate visitors but it is also used as the base for a health project.
Labentera Nursery School
Following a visit to this Maasai village, it became apparent that the way of life of this rural community was changing. They are becoming less nomadic. The nearest school was too far for the youngest children to walk there. A nursery school was needed. This project was started by a visiting student nurse, Nicola, and then continued by other groups of young people, notably Ponteland High School pupils, parents and governors. The school now has two classrooms and two latrines. Individual UK sponsors ensure that staff are trained. A UK church ensure that the teachers are paid.
Sponsorship
Since 2008, Development Direct, has sponsored young people through their education, some at primary school, many at secondary school and now some of these students have progressed to college or university.
Secondary education in Kenya has to be paid for and many pupils have to attend boarding schools – which are nothing like boarding schools in the UK! For the young people we sponsor, our support is necessary to allow them to complete their education so that they have more chances of employment and can make a meaningful contribution to society.
The academic year runs from January to December and comprises three terms.
As of January 2025, annual fees are in the region of 40,000 – 50,000 Kenyan Shillings which is between £230 and £290 but does depend on exchange rates.
A few of our sponsored students attend special and/or vocational schools, for examples those with severe learning difficulties or physical disabilities such as deafness. Without the support of Development Direct, these young people would receive no education at all.
It is always a delight to receive letters of thanks and updates from students who are now in employment.
