Founded in 2014 by Jacob and Mashima, two Congolese refugees, Fizi School was established to provide education, food, and shelter to children who, like their founders, have faced extreme hardships due to conflict and forced displacement. Originally named Grace School, Fizi School serves children aged 3 to 11 and operates from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The school supports a diverse group of students, many of whom are orphans or have lost one parent, which increases their vulnerability. Since 2022, the group of people that in 2024 became officially the Friends of Fizi Kabiria has been dedicated to supporting the school and its students, working to alleviate the challenges of poverty, food insecurity, and a lack of access to essential services.
Located in the heart of Nairobi, Fizi School educates children who face significant daily challenges. The school strives to create a safe and nurturing environment where these children can access learning opportunities despite limited resources and infrastructure.
Kabiria, located in the Dagoretti South area of Nairobi, is one of the most underserved communities in the region. Its residents include both local Kenyan citizens and displaced families. The community faces severe challenges, including poverty, food insecurity, and limited access to essential services such as healthcare and education.
Many families in Kabiria are caught in a cycle of hardship, with parents struggling to provide for their children. The community's lack of access to reliable public services leaves its residents dependent on informal support networks. Among the most vulnerable are refugees who have fled conflict in neighboring countries, adding additional strain on already limited resources.
Despite these immense challenges, Kabiria is a resilient community. It is home to many persevering families driven by hope for a better future. This resilience is inspiring and serves as a reminder of the potential for positive change. However, the road to overcoming these difficulties is long, and the support of organizations like Friends of Fizi Kabiria is critical in empowering the residents and helping them rebuild their lives. By investing in education and community initiatives, we aim to help Kabiria's children and families rise above their circumstances and create a brighter future for themselves.
Fizi School offers a basic educational program with a strong emphasis on meeting the immediate needs of its students. Given the scarce resources, the school focuses on ensuring children receive at least the fundamental education they deserve. Alongside academics, there are efforts to provide psychosocial support and life skills, though the available capacity limits these services.
Fizi School is not just a place of learning but a vital lifeline for many refugee children in Nairobi. It offers them an opportunity to access education that could lead to a better future despite the many challenges they face every day.
Despite its lack of resources, Fizi School remains committed to providing these children with an education to help them overcome difficult circumstances. The staff works tirelessly to make the most of what they have, fostering a sense of community and resilience among the children.
Through dedication and support from organizations like Friends of Fizi Kabiria, the school continues to create opportunities for children who might otherwise be left without access to education.