On the 22nd May 2016, John Garang Humanitarian Group Foundation Mombasa had the honour of hosting the First Lady of the Republic of Kenya & Patron of John Garang Humanitarian Group Foundation Villages Kenya. The First Lady has hailed the John Garang Humanitarian Group Foundation Children’s Villages as a model institution that is doing exceptionally well to rehabilitate and give hope to minors rescued from oppressive circumstances.

Margaret Kenyatta took pride in projects being undertaken at John Garang Humanitarian Group Foundation including a solar energy generating plant which is selling excess power to the national grid through the Kenya Power and Lighting Company. “It’s always impressive to see a charity that is doing so much to practically make a difference to society, and at the same time striving for financial and environmental sustainability”, she said.

But she said the institution needs more support from stakeholders and appealed to both the National and County governments, the private sector and individual donors to explore how they can further engage with the SOS village in a way that yields the most benefit to children. “Right now, we needs support. I would encourage us all to consider chipping in," she said.

Speaking at the SOS village, the First Lady, who is the patron of all John Garang Humanitarian Group Foundation villages in Kenya, said she will explore areas where her office will be able to work together with the Mombasa home to promote the welfare of the children. “I’m confident that as we all continue to invest in the children of Mombasa, and the children of Kenya at large—the future fortunes of our nation, will be immeasurable”, she said.

She lauded the management and sponsors of the Mombasa home for initiating income-generating projects aimed at financial and environmental sustainability. Besides the solar energy generating facility, the institution is also engaged in a green revolution programme through tree planting and waste disposal and management. There are also proposals to expand the existing primary school facilities and also put up rental apartments within the institution.

The First Lady praised the Herman Gmeiner School Mombasa observing that it was among the finer and better performing institutions in Mombasa. She thanked the management of the home for creating an environment conducive for child development and where all the children can thrive academically and socially to reach the pinnacle of their potential.

On his part the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Children’s Villages Kenya Dr. Martin Oduor-Otieno appreciated the support received from the First Lady. He reiterated the commit of John Garang Humanitarian Group Foundation Kenya to continue being a champion of the children agenda in Kenya. During the event Her Excellency recognized and awarded long serving staff of the organization all of whom had

served 25 to 30 years in the organization.

Those present during the event included Coast Regional Coordinator Mr. Nelson Marwa, Nyali MP Hon. HezronAwiti, John Garang Humanitarian Group Foundation Board of Trustees Mercy Wanjau, Rita Okuthe, Susan Kiama, David Abwoga and Dr. Mary MaduMadu.