When parents die it is commonplace, within the Kenyan context, to find a “foster” parent.
Due to the impact of the AIDS-pandemic it has become increasingly hard to find willing and able foster parents. The extended family is simply overstretched. Ujima has therefore decided to focus on the first born child, mostly young woman, and equip them to enter the job market successfully. Through this approach Ujima not only assists the firstborns’, but also the children in their care.

The Ujima trainees do not have parents, no access to a proper diet and no proper housing. They however do have a healthy ambition and ability to make something of their siblings’ lives and their own. The only thing they need is a chance. Ujima views its trainees as people with potential.

Why should one institutionalise children in orphanages if they can grow up with in a family set-up and become participating members of society?