Community Social Capital Development
KDC builds the capacity of vulnerable communities to generate, manage, and sustain incomes
from alternative livelihood options, while ensuring food security and children’s rights are
safeguarded. Our approach is rooted in Self-Help Groups (SHGs), a people-driven model that
empowers the very poor to take charge of their development.
This approach has become a cornerstone of KDC’s programming—strengthening women, youth,
and community institutions to secure sustainable livelihoods and child well-being.
Our Approach
Formation of SHGs, Cluster Level Associations (CLAs) and; Federations to drive
sustainability.
Capacity building in livelihoods, leadership, financial literacy, and child protection.
Skills training for youth (dressmaking, mechanics, hairdressing, motorbike repair, etc.).
Partnerships with government and community stakeholders to improve access to health,
education, and protection services.
Emergency support (school feeding, drought relief, seed distribution) to cushion families from
climate shocks.
Flagship Projects
1. Community Self-Development for Sustainable Support (Phase 1) – Kitui Central
Established 185 SHGs, 13 CLAs, and 1 federation (TISUKA) supporting 10,324 children.
Formed 5 youth groups (80 members) with vocational training leading to self-employment.
Approach was scaled across KDC projects as a best practice.
2. Child-Focused Community Development Project (CFCDP) – Miambani & Kitui East
(2016–2025)
Funded by KinderNothilfe (KNH).
Reached 3,876 women across 228 SHGs and 13 CLAs.
Formed 12 children’s groups (475 members) and 96 youths trained under the Community-
Based Training (CBT) model.
Impact: Reduced child labour, early marriages, and abuse; improved school enrollment,
nutrition, and healthcare access.
3. Community Self-Development Project (CSDP) – Ikanga/Kyatune, Kitui South
(2021–2025)
Funded by KinderNothilfe (KNH).
Established 146 SHGs, 14 CLAs, and 1 federation, reaching 2,618 women and 8,322 children.
Supported 6 primary schools (1,771 pupils) with a feeding program that improved retention and
performance.
Provided certified seeds to 2,020 SHG members and relief food to 1,500 households during
drought.
Set up a community tree nursery (30,000 seedlings) linking livelihoods with climate resilience.
Women’s economic empowerment enhanced through table banking, ensuring children stay in
school.
Our Impact
Institutions Built: Over 500 SHGs, 40+ CLAs, and 3 federations sustained beyond project
phases.
Children Reached: 18,000+ children supported through SHGs, education, and protection
measures.
Women Empowered:
Thousands of women economically independent through savings, credit,
and agribusiness.
Youth Skilled: Hundreds of youth trained and absorbed into self-employment and jobs.
Resilience Strengthened: Communities equipped to withstand climate shocks and reduce child
vulnerabilities.
Conclusion:
KDC’s Community Social Capital Development model demonstrates the power of people’s
institutions to transform lives, protect children, and create sustainable livelihoods. By
unleashing human potential, communities are not only meeting their own needs but also securing
a better future for their children.
