For fifteen years, we have walked hand in hand with the remarkable community of Makima. What began as a partnership rooted in shared vision and mutual commitment has evolved into a powerful journey of empowerment, resilience, and measurable progress.
When this collaboration first began, Makima faced significant challenges. Access to basic services was limited. Awareness of rights was low. Economic opportunities were constrained. Many voices, particularly those of women, children, and vulnerable groups, were rarely heard in the spaces where decisions that affected their lives were made.
Today, the story is different. Makima is more informed, more organized, and more confident in shaping its own future. Community members have strengthened their understanding of their rights and are increasingly equipped to demand transparency and accountability from duty bearers. Advocacy efforts are stronger, more strategic, and driven by the people themselves.
“Working with the community of Makima over these years has been truly inspiring. We have seen a shift from dependency to ownership; people now understand their rights and are taking the lead in shaping their own future. It is a reminder that when communities are empowered, progress is real, lasting, and sustainable.” Samson Orao, Executive Director, ActionAid Kenya
Economic empowerment initiatives have opened new pathways for households to improve their livelihoods. Families are diversifying income sources, building savings, and strengthening their resilience against economic shocks. What was once survival-focused has gradually transformed into forward-looking planning and growth.
The transformation is especially visible in the lives of children. Schools have become safer and more conducive learning environments. Improved infrastructure, enhanced community participation, and strengthened child protection mechanisms have contributed to better attendance, improved learning outcomes, and renewed hope for the next generation.
Access to clean and safe water, once a distant aspiration, is now a daily reality for many families. The long walks and uncertainty that once defined daily routines have been replaced by reliable access to water that safeguards health, restores dignity, and frees time for productive activities.
“For years, we struggled with rampant cases of domestic conflict and violence, limited access to clean water and safe schools for our children, and high levels of poverty. Now, thanks to the empowerment initiatives by ActionAid, we know our rights, incidences of violence have reduced, and access to water has become a reality. I see my neighbors organizing, advocating, and solving problems themselves. Our voices are being heard, and our children are learning in safe environments.” said Bines Ndunge Kyule, Community Member and Chairperson Makima Improved Chicken Farmers CBO
These achievements are not the result of isolated interventions, but of sustained collaboration, shared responsibility, and a deliberate commitment to community ownership.
As we reflect on fifteen years of shared commitment, and even as our programmes phase out, we celebrate not only the milestones achieved, but the enduring spirit of partnership that made them possible. What began as guided support has evolved into locally driven momentum. The foundations are strong. The structures are in place. Most importantly, leadership now firmly rests within the community itself.
The resilience, courage, and determination of the people of Makima continue to affirm a powerful truth: sustainable change does not depend on external presence, but on empowered communities equipped to lead their own development.
The journey does not end here. It enters a new chapter, one defined by local ownership, strengthened systems, and collective confidence. Makima is rising, and it will continue to rise.
Author: Ezra Kiriago ,Communications Coordinator ActionAid Kenya.