A group of Aberdeen volunteers have been credited with “transforming” the lives of four families in Kenya.
An enthusiastic team of 29 volunteers from across the globe, including 19 from the north-east, built four houses in the Kenyan towns of Iten and Karatina.
The trip was organised by the Gathimba Edwards Foundation (GEF) who work with vulnerable families in the African country.
The building work was overseen by Darren Cocker of Aberdeen’s Bancon Homes who said it was “amazing” that the team had built the houses in just six days.
The charity have also leased a separate piece of land for farming so that they can generate an income for themselves.
Kevin Farley, a volunteer from Aberdeen based company Stewart Milne homes said: “I had a brilliant time in Kenya the last two weeks.
“I met some friends for life and changed the lives of four families. Seeing their smiles was better than any wage I’ve had. I owe thanks to everyone that made my trip amazing, I’ll be back again I’m sure.”
One Kenyan family that benefitted from the team’s work was the Kiplimos, which previously had close ties with Aberdeen.
In school Mercy Kiplimo scored grades that placed her among the top performing children in the country.
But despite this, she was at risk of being kicked out of school, before the Lloyd family from Aberdeen stepped in to pay her high fees.
Now, all of Mercy’s children are now in school full time thanks to GEF monthly sponsors.
As a result of the team’s work, the family of five will also have a safe house to stay in.
The Kiplimos previously lived in the middle of a forest above mud and dirt.
GEF founder Myles Edwards said: “We’re incredibly proud and grateful to all the volunteers from Kenya and abroad for transforming the lives of these four families.
“Living in the forest or by the road side is now a thing of the past thanks to them.
“The team came together in a special way and their efforts will last a life time. The way that Stewart Milne Timber Systems and Bancon Homes worked together in the planning and execution of the project was also very inspiring.
“With numerous projects across Kenya our aim is to help disadvantaged children get a start in life, whether it be support through shelter, clothing, education or sustainable food solutions and giving them the opportunity to not only live their lives as children but also to develop as adults.”
The next GEF house building trip will be in October next year. To find out more go to gathimbaedwardsfoundation.org
