Fransuer Mukula’s upbringing was challenging, he lived through a period of time as a street child and there was regularly a lack of money for food and education. He is thankful that through the help of individuals who saw signs of potential and were willing to respond to his practical needs, he was able to progress through his education and escape the cycle of poverty that seemed inevitable.
Fransuer always had a desire to ‘give back’, to help children and individuals who are stuck due to their circumstances. After some time spent in Kenya, Rachel (Fransuer’s wife) was struck by the numbers of abandoned babies and vulnerable children who lived on the streets and was drawn to help, to give hope and opportunity for needy children and adults to reach their potential. These experiences culminated in a vision being gradually developed, and Jengana was registered as a UK charity in 2008.
Jengana now has a small Northern Ireland based Board, made up of volunteer members. The work relies on donations - both one-off and regular monthly payments - as well as fundraisers. We are passionate about keeping overheads low and for as much of this money as possible to go directly to those who need it most.
In Kenya we have a number of staff at the Jengana Centre. We have Philip,our Jengana manager and social worker who now lives onsite. Within Kipepeo home we have 3 house mothers and a young couple who live onsite with their two children, and who take on the role of house parents. Through this we try to provide a more natural home environment for the children. We also have a caretaker/watchman.
There are now two main arms of Jengana,
Our faith is not in our abilities but in seeing what God is going to do as we avail ourselves for his kingdom.
Jengana’s approach is one which empowers people living in challenging situations by standing with them in difficult times, encouraging and supporting them to make sustainable and lasting change in their lives.
The testament of this organisation is visible when you reflect on those humble beginnings, and the many lives that have been transformed from since those early days.
The fellowship and words of encouragement from the teams really meant a lot. The personal stories by the team leaders and members also make it an inspirational and fun organization to be associated with. Let’s keep building each other!!
Over the years Jengana has nurtured a great friendship with Nyumba Ya Tumaini. We have benefited greatly from their generous gifts and visits. We trust the good Lord, that our partnership will continue to grow and that together we will make a lasting impact to the communities we serve.
I have worked closely with Jengana since 2013. Through Jengana initiatives many lives have been transformed: many families are able to provide for their loved ones through the entrepreneurship program; many young people are accessing quality education and children who were homeless and parentless now have a home and parents through Kipepeo children's home. Jengana is a true agent of transformation and hope.
If you would like any more information on the work of Jengana, to ask any questions, or to get involved, we would love to hear from you.
Jengana - building each other:
Sharing God’s love as we reach out to support those in need with practical help and encouragement as they attempt to escape the endless cycle of extreme poverty.