What began as a single visit in the 1990s has grown into a transformative movement touching thousands of lives in Kenya. Carol Sasaki, the CEO of the International Humanity Foundation (IHF), travelled to Kenya with a simple yet powerful vision—to uplift and empower vulnerable communities. Today, that vision lives on through the flourishing Nakuru Centre.
From Humble Beginnings to a Lifeline for Communities
Carol Sasaki’s first involvement in Kenya started in the late 1990s with support for children in the Kibera slum. Providing basic childcare and educational services, she quickly recognised deeper, systemic challenges—particularly in the East Pokot region, where malnutrition, water insecurity, and pastoral hardships plagued rural families.
In response, she launched the Famine Feed Programme to address hunger and malnutrition. Recognising that true change required long-term solutions, she sought land to develop sustainable food and water initiatives. With the support of local elders and community leaders, IHF secured freehold land for what would become the Nakuru Centre—a symbol of resilience, education, and grassroots empowerment.
Nakuru Centre: A Hub of Hope and Learning
Over the years, the Nakuru Centre has expanded into a beacon of hope, offering programmes in education, nutrition, healthcare, and skill development. It not only supports children academically but also empowers adults and strengthens the wider community.
Following the introduction of medical services, the centre broadened its efforts to include livestock projects, technological training, and the construction of a well. Babysitting services were also introduced, helping working parents while promoting early childhood development.
A cornerstone of IHF’s philosophy is inclusion and collaboration. The centre welcomed volunteers from across the globe, enriching the programmes through shared knowledge and creating lasting intercultural connections.
Making an Impact: From Essentials to Empowerment
By 2023, the Nakuru Centre had firmly established itself as a provider of essential needs—nutrition, clean water, hygiene education, clothing, and shelter. Children received dental kits and hygiene lessons, while nutritious lunches ensured they were equipped to learn and grow.
With these basics in place, the centre turned its focus towards bridging the digital divide. Children learned vital computer and literacy skills, alongside environmental conservation to instil a sense of stewardship and sustainability.
Education remains central to the centre’s work. Throughout mid-2024, children received daily homework help and core subject classes. In September, 130 children attended daily sessions. Later in the year, IHF launched the Targeted Education Program (TEP), designed to support school fees for underprivileged learners.
A Vision for the Future
The end of 2024 brought a major milestone—the lease of 10 additional acres of land. This expansion strengthens the centre’s ability to operate self-sufficiently, particularly in nutrition and education.
Into 2025, the momentum continues. In January, children marked International Day of Education with a volunteer-led maths class. February brought a creative celebration of Valentine’s Day, where the children shared poems, art, and messages of love, reflecting the emotional growth fostered at the centre.
A recent blog post titled ‘A Day in the Life’ offered a glimpse into the children’s dreams—to become engineers, police officers, financial professionals, and more. These aspirations reflect not just academic achievement, but a deep-rooted desire to support their families and contribute meaningfully to society.
A Legacy of Lasting Change
What began with one woman’s compassion has grown into a movement that continues to thrive, adapt, and inspire. The International Humanity Foundation’s work in Kenya shows the power of starting small, acting with heart, and staying committed to meaningful, steady growth.
The Nakuru Centre stands today as a testament to that legacy—nurturing not just minds, but entire communities.
