Engineer Samuel Ochieng – NCCK has helped many
Samwel Ochieng
My name is Engineer Samwel Ochieng, a beneficiary of NCCK scholarship since 2012 when I was in Form 2 at Nairobi School. I grew up in the village of Kadawa deep within Kisumu County. The area was and still is marginalized with most people living hand to mouth. I am from a family of 8 with my two parents and 6 children. My father is a casual laborer and my mum sells vegetables.
Since graduating in 2021 from the University of Nairobi I have tried my best to change how they live, including paying fees for my siblings. All this I can attribute to the opportunity accorded to me by NCCK.
The NCCK scholarship really transformed my life. It enabled me complete my high school studies. Through their support in paying part of my fees, I was motivated to move forward even when I thought all hope was lost in 2012 and above all the ripple effect of that scholarship has been evident in my current life because I’m able to help my family.
I wish to say that NCCK has helped countless students who would have dropped out of school due to insufficient funds and life struggles. I pray and hope that the Lord will open doors for more donor funding so that they are able to help even more students and also at different levels such as the Universities and colleges.
- Published in Education and Health, Nyanza Region, Transformational Stories
Building Peace and Trust: Nyakach Boda Boda Group’s Contribution to Peace andSecurity.
SUCCESS STORY
- SUCCESS STORY TITLE:
Building Peace and Trust: Nyakach Boda Boda Group’s Contribution to Peace and
Security. - PROBLEM OVERVIEW:
Nyakach County faced escalating violence, exacerbated by uncoordinated efforts between the
Boda boda groups, security forces, and local NGAO members. Illiteracy and a lack of
information channels hindered these groups from sharing vital information, contributing to
ongoing conflicts. Some Boda boda members were even involved in instigating violence,
believing they were defending their community. - PROGRAM/ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION:
NCCK through the Mulika Initiative intervened to build community capacity, specifically
empowering Boda boda and matatu operators to contribute to Early Warning Early Response
(EWER) pathways for lasting peace in Nyakach. The initiative aimed to bridge the information
gap, improve communication channels, and link these groups with relevant authorities to
respond to threats effectively. Training sessions were conducted to educate the Boda boda riders
about their roles in early response, peacebuilding, and violence prevention. - PROGRAM/ACTIVITY OUTCOMES:
Boda boda riders gained the confidence to voice their concerns and share critical
information.
Capacity-building efforts led to enhanced collaboration between Boda boda groups,
public transport providers, and the Ministry of Interior.
The Boda boda riders became vigilant reporters of crimes and potential threats,
improving community safety.
Boda boda groups were equipped to train others, expanding the network of informed
peace advocates.
Increased awareness among Boda boda riders about their responsibilities in community
peacebuilding and violence prevention. - STORY ABSTRACT:
Situation Prior to the Intervention: Nyakach Sub County was plagued by escalating violence,
aggravated by disorganized responses from local groups and authorities. The lack of
coordination and information sharing among Boda boda riders, security forces, and NGAO
members exacerbated the situation.
The Intervention: NCCK engaged Nyakach’s Boda boda riders, fostering dialogue and forging a
path towards unity and peace. Training sessions empowered them to recognize their vital role in
early response and community safety. Through these efforts, communication channels improved,
allowing timely reporting of potential threats.
The Outcome: Chief of Jimo East, Mr. John, acknowledged the positive change: “The
relationship between the groups has improved, and we have been receiving timely information
about potential threats and signs of violence. For instance, Ezra Odhiambo, a Boda Boda
member, alerted us to a potential attack, and with the community’s support, we averted the
incident.”
Ezra Odhiambo shared his experience: “The training provided by NCCK was eye-opening. I
realized that ensuring peace and cohesion is everyone’s responsibility. I recently helped prevent a
brewing attack by following the training’s principles and engaging with the community. Peace
was maintained, thanks to our efforts.” - CHECK IF ANY OF THE FOLLOWING ARE BEING SUBMITTED TO COMPLEMENT YOUR STORY:
□ Testimonials
□ Quote from Partner/Participant –
Mr. Ezra Odhiambo: “The training opened my eyes to the importance of peace and unity. It
empowered me to take action and prevent a potential attack, and I’m grateful for the knowledge
and skills I gained.”
□ Sample of Materials Produced
□ Press Release
□ Promotional Materials
□ Photo(s) of Project
□ Video/Audio Clip
□ Other (Explain: __) - CONTACT INFORMATION:
Name:
Title:
Organization:
Phone:
E-mail:
Name:
Title:
Organization:
Phone:
E-mail: - DOES THE ORGANIZATION HAVE PERMISSION TO SHARE THIS SUCCESS STORY?
□ Yes □ No - DATE STORY SUBMITTED: 23rd October 2023
- DASH PROJECT OFFICER:
- Overall Style Reminders
□ Keep paragraphs short – no more than 5-6 sentences.
□ Keep the story to no more than two pages.
□ Stick to the facts. Do not interject an opinion unless you attribute it to someone.
□ Avoid using passive voice (e.g., “Training were provided.”). Use active voice (e.g., “X
partner provided Y training.”), and be clear about who is doing the action in every
sentence.
□ Include direct quotes if they strengthen the story.
□ Limit use of acronyms. If you use acronyms, spell them out on first mention.
□ Use plain language.
□ Avoid jargon. Readers often skip over terms they don’t understand, hoping to get their
meaning from the rest of the sentence.
□ Keep messages simple and concise.
□ Avoid broad, sweeping statements (e.g., “There was a noticeable increase in healthy
eating habits” or “A significant amount of money was saved”).
- Published in Nyanza Region