New Year 2024 with New Director and Renewed Commitment!

As we stepped into the New Year, we were filled with joy as we shared some exciting changes and renewed commitment within our organization. We recently bid farewell to Irene Wamithi, our dedicated Director for the past five years, and welcomed Maurice Muthiga as our new Director. This transition marked a significant moment for us as we continue to grow and evolve.

Technical and Vocational Training (TVETs) is recognised worldwide as critical for increasing employability, better job prospects and potentially enhancing social inclusion.  TVET is a key element of long-life learning systems that aims to equip people with technical skills, expertise and competencies needed in the labour market while providing them also with the personal skills for their future lives in society. Kenya has recognised the potential of TVET as a driving force in addressing youth unemployment, It has recognised that TVET plays an important role in providing the necessary skills to improve employee productivity, occupational integration, economic progression, raise income levels and increase employment opportunities.  St. Martin CSA in partnership with the Laikipia County Government launched the Public-private partnership between the two entities.  The County Government is responsible for providing TVET services and upgrading VTCs. At the same time, St. Martin CSA will support the County TVET agenda by providing technical support for the development of County policies, the setting up of systems and training programs, training of county staff and the increase of TVET attractiveness in the County.  We were honoured to have His Excellency, The Governor County Government of Laikipia - Joshua Irungu, grace the occasion on 30th January 2024, at Rumuruti Stadium. His commitment to the success of our project is a testament to the transformative power of collaboration.

According to the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA) of Kenya, Laikipia is among the 23 counties that are susceptible to drought. The Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs) of this county constitute more than 80% of the country’s total land area. This resulted in over 2 million people facing severe food insecurity in 2021. In this severe drought, the ultra-poor and marginalized individuals, including those affected by gender-based violence, mental health issues, disabilities, and marginalized women and children, face the greatest hardship. Their reliance on agriculture-based livelihoods and limited alternatives exacerbates their struggle to make ends meet.  In response to the challenges faced by the ultra-poor and marginalized individuals, St Martin introduced Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in 2023. The aim was to support these individuals to restart, diversify, and strengthen their livelihoods through training and financial support. The members, grouped into teams of 10-13, voluntarily saved money and participated in capacity-building activities focused on livelihood opportunities resilient livelihoods even amidst the adversities of drought.  Through this initiative, the livelihood programme has made a significant impact. It has supported 238 beneficiaries across 21 Self-Help Groups (SHGs). These individuals have been able to restart, strengthen, and diversify their livelihoods, thanks to the training they received. Despite the harsh climate conditions, they have shown remarkable resilience, adapting their livelihoods to withstand the challenges.

The Amani clubs were Established in 2014 through a collaboration between the National Cohesion and Integration Commission and the Ministry of Education, Amani Clubs are fostering a culture of peace and understanding in Kenyan schools. These student-centered groups aim to promote good relations, harmony, and peaceful co-existence, not just within schools, but also extending to the surrounding communities.

Amani Clubs empower young people to address issues of ethnicity and diversity head-on, planting seeds of tolerance and appreciation for different cultures. They equip students with the skills to navigate challenges peacefully and inspire them to become responsible citizens who promote peace in their daily lives. The clubs stand as a testament to the power of education in transforming societies and building a more peaceful world.