Jenga Matendo – Building Hope, Skills, and Sustainable CommunitiesOverviewJenga Matendo Project is a community-driven initiative founded by Matendo Nzika, a widow and passionate community leader based in Kakuma Refugee Camp, Turkana County, Kenya. The project was established to address the growing need for practical skills, income generation, and creative empowerment among refugees and host communities. “Jenga Matendo” means Build with Action — a name that reflects our belief that transformation begins with doing, not just dreaming.Our work focuses on empowering youth, women, and children through hands-on vocational training, creative arts, and community development. By turning locally available materials into opportunities for learning and livelihood, we aim to build not just structures, but people — confident, skilled, and independent members of society.VisionTo build resilient, self-reliant communities where individuals use their hands, creativity, and teamwork to create dignified lives and sustainable futures.MissionTo empower vulnerable people, especially women and youth, with practical construction, craftsmanship, and creative education skills that promote self-employment, innovation, and community progress.Our Core Programs1. Vocational Construction TrainingWe train young people and women in sustainable construction methods that use affordable, locally available materials. Participants learn skills such as concrete mixing, metal mesh shaping, plastering, and safe building practices. Graduates use these skills to build homes, repair shelters, and start small businesses — turning training into livelihood.2. Women’s Empowerment and EntrepreneurshipWomen are at the center of Jenga Matendo’s mission. Through training in home repairs, furniture making, and crafts, we help them gain independence and dignity. We also offer guidance in business planning, marketing, and financial literacy to help them manage income and grow sustainable enterprises.3. Creative Education for ChildrenIn 2025, Jenga Matendo launched a new initiative: educational songs and animated cartoons for children. This creative program teaches values such as cleanliness, teamwork, peace, and creativity through music and storytelling. Our goal is to provide joyful learning that inspires children to think positively and grow with purpose — especially those in refugee and resource-limited environments.4. Community ProjectsWe carry out community-based construction projects, including furniture production, home repairs, and building learning centers. These activities strengthen cooperation between refugees and local residents while promoting social inclusion and shared progress.ImpactSince inception, Jenga Matendo has trained dozens of youth and women, many of whom are now earning income, supporting families, and mentoring others. The project has produced affordable furniture and construction materials now used across Kakuma and nearby areas. Beyond economic gains, we have restored confidence, dignity, and unity among participants.Partnerships and CollaborationWe invite partnerships with NGOs, donors, educational institutions, and creative professionals. Support can include funding, technical expertise, materials, or mentorship for our trainees. Together, we can expand access to skills, education, and creativity — transforming lives and building hope for future generations.Contact Person: Matendo Nzika (Founder & Director)Email: [email protected] / WhatsApp: +254 751 581633Location: Kakuma Refugee Camp, Turkana County, Kenya