Educating street children in the Mathare slums

Mathari Children Fund Panairobi (MCFP) continues to champion SDG 4 through its scholarship program. The program is aimed at ensuring that the most neediest children in the Mathare informal settlement and its environs access quality education. MCFP is committed to ensuring that all our scholarship beneficiaries have access to equitable and quality primary and secondary education leading to relevant and effective learning outcomes.

In this reporting period, we feature the story of John ( not his real name ) . His journey is undeniably both tragic and uplifting, a testament to the human spirit's resilience against all odds. Born on June 14, 2012, John grew up in the harsh and unforgiving environment of Mathare's Kosovo section, a place notorious for gang activities and rampant substance abuse. The streets of Kosovo are often filled with individuals in a state of "brain blackout" due to excessive drug intake, painting a bleak picture of life in this slum.

Despite the immense challenges he faces, including the loss of both parents and mistreatment by his step-grandfather, John showed remarkable resilience and determination. He lived with his elderly grandmother and elder brother, enduring mistreatment from his step-grandfather whenever his grandmother was away. This mistreatment always drove John to the streets of Eastleigh in search of food, only returning home when his grandmother was back.

Fortunately, John was allowed to break free from this cycle of poverty and despair through The Mathare Children’s Fund school sponsorship program. He enrolled in Mathari Primary School, where he quickly distinguished himself as the best student in his class, earning the role of class prefect. Later, after consulting with his grandmother and uncle from their rural home, it was decided that John and his brother to be relocated to the village to remove them from the unconducive environment in the informal settlement. This move was intended to offer them a more comfortable living environment and ensure uninterrupted schooling. 

Since the move to their rural home, John has emerged to be among the best-performing students with great prospects for the future. John's story serves as an inspiration to all who hear it. His determination to succeed academically and his resilience in the face of adversity are truly commendable. Further, he is undergoing mentorship and counseling to help him cope with the traumas he has experienced in his life and build a strong foundation for his future.

The story of John is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of education and the importance of providing support to those in need. With the right assistance and opportunities, Binato has the potential to achieve great things and make a positive impact on his community and beyond.

MCFP highly appreciates all our GlobalGiving donors who make the school scholarship program such a huge success.