COMMUNITY DISCUSSION ON SECURITY MATTERS
In Nyayo Highrise Ward, Lang’ata Constituency, people are tired of reading tragedy like weather. Fires rip through homes with cruel regularity — and alongside them, theft, assault, and the quieter crimes that wear a neighbourhood down.
Then came another headline no family should have to swallow: an elderly man — a father, a brother, a neighbour to someone — stabbed to death. Grief arrived first; anger followed close behind. ETCO opened space for a community discussion because silence was starting to feel like consent.
What neighbours said needed urgent action
People spoke plainly. Report suspects to authorities instead of shielding trouble until it reaches your own door. Form security committees that know the lanes, the shops, the boys who need work more than they need shame. Young people were challenged to hustle honestly — and the community was challenged to share opportunities fairly when they appear, without favouritism that breeds resentment.
Parents and guardians were reminded — painfully, lovingly — that a child left to the street learns the street’s rules. Police were invited into dialogue at least once or twice a year, not as enemies parachuting in, but as partners when trust is possible. Substance abuse was named without euphemism: when intoxication becomes normal, violence becomes normal too.
Education came up again and again — not as a lecture, but as a door. The community asked young people to push as far as their circumstances allow, because opportunity still leans toward those who can read a form, write an email, defend an idea.
A meeting does not install streetlights or erase poverty. It does, if we are lucky, remind us that safety is shared labour — reporting what we see, supporting youth initiatives that give real skills, and refusing to let fear be the only thing that grows unchecked.
Easter Feeding Program
Thanks to Tim Ruff and Stephanie, ETCO hosted a warm Easter Friday feeding program for children at our new office—bringing joy, a good meal, and community together in Kibera.
ETCO's Kibera Slums Tour
We thank Tim Ruff and Stephanie for joining ETCO’s Slum Tour in Kibera—walking with us, listening to residents, and experiencing the strength and reality of our community firsthand.
FLOOD SUPPORT APPEAL – KIBERA
Heavy rains brought flooding to Kibera’s riparian areas—destroying homes, claiming lives, and leaving families in urgent need. ETCO appeals to well-wishers for food, clothing, bedding, medical support, and other basics, while urging everyone to stay safe around fast water and contamination risks.