01/07/2026
"Siku Hizi Hauzi. Anaenda Shambani..."
~ Nagide's Story
Pictured below is Nagide, a young boy we met three years ago in Givole, Vihiga County. We found him by the roadside eating guavas while other children were in school.
When we asked why he was not in class, he told us he had been sent home because he lacked school fees, a school uniform, and learning materials. He also shared that he had lost his mother.
We traced his father, who explained that he had married late in life and was blessed with only one child. Sadly, Nagide's mother passed away during childbirth. The boy was then raised by his aunt, who also passed away four years later. Since then, his father had been raising him alone under very difficult circumstances.
Touched by their situation, we built them a modest house, provided essential household items and furniture, and supported Nagide's return to school.
About a year later, during a follow-up visit, Nagide quietly shared a worrying concern. He told us his father had been selling portions of their land in bits. According to him, people would visit their home, drink with his father, have him sign documents, leave behind some money, and later return to complete the transactions.
His father openly confirmed that he had sold part of the land.
To verify the information, we conducted an official land search using the title details he provided. The records confirmed that several transactions had already been completed, while others were pending subdivision.
Concerned that the remaining land, Nagide's only inheritance, was also at risk, we, the Makanda Foundation wrote to the area chief requesting intervention. The chief assisted in facilitating the matter before the court, which issued interim orders restraining any further sale, transfer, subdivision, or other dealings with the remaining land until Nagide attains the age of 18.
Yesterday, we returned to check on the family's progress.
We were encouraged to find that no one has since returned to persuade the father to sell the remaining land. Instead, he is now putting it to productive use. We found him peacefully tilling his farm.
Nagide was in school when we visited. He was delighted to see us and continues to do well in his studies. He is now in Grade 9, although he has already outgrown his school uniform.
One child. One family. One future worth protecting.
