Kenya

Country information 

Kenya is located on the Indian Ocean in East Africa and borders on Uganda, Sudan, Ethiopia, Somalia and Tanzania. The total area of the country is 582.646 square kilometres, or almost 17 times the size of the Netherlands.  The capital of Kenya is Nairobi. Kenya has one of the fastest growing a populations in the world and currently numbers nearly 34 million people. The country is inhabited by approximately 70 tribes, of whom the Masai and the Samburu are probably the most well known. English and Kiswahili are the official languages, although a great number of tribal languages are also spoken. 

Partner organization

African Breeders Services Total Cattle Management (ABS-TCM)

On arrival in Kenya MBT provides reintegration support through its partner organization.  Upon arrival the client receives a financial contribution. This sum is not given in cash but is spent under supervision of the partner organization on providing the means necessary for building a sustainable future in Kenya.

In Kenya MBT works together with the partner organization ABS-TCM. This organization is based in Nairobi and is specialized in development assistance in rural areas, in particular cattle breeding and agriculture. They work predominantly in the field of small-scale cattle breeding. They offer training and assist in finding financial support so that returnees can start their own business. They are focused particularly on women.  ABS-TCM offers returnees individually tailored economic and social support. This includes initial reception, support in finding employment or establishing their own business and assistance in accessing education. In addition returnees can be referred to specialized healthcare services.

Example of return to Kenya

Mary

Mary (not her real name), a former victim of human trafficking, recently returned to Kenya with her 4-year-old son.  Her request for assistance was submitted by BLinN (Bonded Labour in the Netherlands) who had helped her with a business plan for setting up a small dairy farm. She wanted financial help and technical assistance in realizing this plan.  

Via Cordaid we were able to contact an organization specialized in cattle farming. On arrival Mary contacted them and they were able to offer her advice tailored to the local situation.  Financial support from MBT enabled her to purchase three cows and start her business on land belonging to her father. The cows give ten liters of milk a day that she sells to a cooperative. Money acquired through other channels allows her to pay for her son’s education. 

Contact

Santje Geuze, 030-7551580, s.geuze@maatwerkbijterugkeer.nl