Youth Initiatives Kenya
- (254) 725683679
- info@yike.org
Patreva Heights, Kamunde Road, Kariobangi North
YIKE: Investing in a Brighter Future for Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC)
The Nilinde Project empowers vulnerable children and strengthens families in Nairobi's informal settlements.
Project Title
Improved livelihoods for OVCs through access to health, social services and Economically Empowered Caregivers (Nilinde Project)
Background
Many Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) in Kenya face challenges due to HIV/AIDS and poverty. This exposes them to stress, neglect, and exploitation. The situation is particularly difficult in informal settlements like Mathare and Korogocho. YIKE's Child Protection Project identified a critical lack of access to quality education, health, and social services for OVCs in these areas.
Objectives
- Improve access to health and social services for OVCs and their families.
- Strengthen the capacity of households and communities to protect and care for OVCs.
- Empower caregivers through economic opportunities, allowing them to better support OVCs.
Target Beneficiaries
- 1500 OVCs (aged 0-18) in Njiru Sub County, both in and out of school.
- Caregivers of OVCs, including youth caregivers (18-35) and mothers.
Activities
Health and Social Services
- Collaboration with local authorities and health facilities for HIV/AIDS testing, counseling, and treatment for OVCs.
- Birth registration outreach events for OVCs.
- Support for school management committees to develop plans addressing OVC needs.
- Provision of school uniforms and learning materials to the neediest OVCs.
Economic Empowerment of Caregivers
- Training in entrepreneurship and small business management.
- Linkage with Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) and potential employers.
- Strengthening existing savings groups for caregivers.
- Quarterly family days to share health information and facilitate access to services.
Monitoring and Evaluation
YIKE will have a dedicated M&E officer to track progress, document activities, and identify areas for improvement. Regular stakeholder forums will be held to share results and address challenges.
Participant Selection
YIKE will utilize its existing networks and partnerships to identify and recruit OVCs, caregivers, and volunteers. Data from Plan International will be used for initial mobilization. Local leaders, youth groups, CHWs, social workers, and schools will also play a crucial role in beneficiary selection.
Scaling Up
YIKE's experience working across Nairobi positions them to scale this project to Kasarani Sub County in the future. Existing partnerships and networks will facilitate this expansion.