Kennedy Odede, the founder and Director of Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO), nearly met his demise at the hands of a mob after a desperate act of stealing a mango at Toi Market in Nairobi.
Born into abject poverty in the Kibera slums, Odede shared his remarkable journey while addressing a gathering of SHOFCO members.
The members had turned up for the unveiling a transformative multimillion-dollar community social center.
The center, a testament to Odede’s vision, aims to empower women and provide opportunities for youth within the region.
“When people speak of poverty, I understand because that’s where I came from,” he expressed, addressing a crowd of thousands. “I understand the true definition of poverty and the desperation it breeds.”
Stealing a mango
Recalling his tumultuous childhood, Odede revealed, “Once upon a time, as a street child, I nearly paid with my life for stealing a single mango from a stall in Toi Market. My mother, residing in the Kibera slums, struggled to provide for our family, on many occasions I would roam in the streets.”
SHOFCO, now a prominent force across Kenya, operates in 35 out of the 47 counties, with Siaya alone boasting a registration of 168,000 individuals.
Odede’s commitment to alleviating the suffering of women resonates deeply within him, driving his mission to transform lives across the nation.
Kennedy Odede being crowned a Luo elder in Siaya County.
Reflecting on his impoverished upbringing, Odede credited his mother for instilling resilience and compassion within him.
“We faced hunger daily, and affording education seemed like an unattainable dream,” he recalled. “My mother’s sacrifices, such as advising me to apply cooking oil (kimbo) to my lips to mask the absence of food, shaped me into the man I am today.”
Partnership with counties
SHOFCO’s impactful partnerships with various counties have yielded tangible results, with initiatives focusing on agricultural development, vocational training, and empowerment of marginalized youth.
Kennedy Odede explaining Gov James Orengo and Speaker George Okode how the community center will transform lives
“We’ve provided access to technical education for countless students who were previously unable to attend school,” Odede shared, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to fostering employment opportunities.
The Siaya County Government, both executive and assembly, pledged unwavering support for SHOFCO’s endeavors.
Governor James Orengo applauded Odede’s achievements, likening him to esteemed figures such as Tom Mboya and Barack Obama. “As a county, we are immensely proud of you,” Orengo remarked, acknowledging Odede’s inclusion in the prestigious Time 100 list.
Echoing the sentiment, Siaya County Assembly Speaker George Okode commended Odede’s dedication to uplifting communities, pledging wholehearted support from the local government.
“Your efforts resonate deeply with us,” Okode affirmed. “Continue your noble work, knowing that Siaya stands firmly behind you.”
