Mama Africa Youth Centre: 

From Dumping Ground to Empowerment Hub

Founding Years

Nestled in the heart of Area 3, Mathare North Ward, Ruaraka Constituency, Nairobi, Kenya, Mama Africa Youth Centre arose from humble beginnings as a neglected dumping site. 

In 1998, driven by a passion for community development, Joseph Nyamongo and a dedicated group of friends embarked on a transformative journey to reclaim this space. This marked the inception of Mama Africa Youth Centre, an initiative that would transcend its humble origins and become a beacon of hope for the community.

From Dumping Site to Community Hub:

The initial challenge was immense, but the team's determination knew no bounds. Together, they rolled up their sleeves, cleaned out the debris, and transformed the site into a place of promise. Trees were planted, and small halls were constructed, laying the foundation for what would soon become a  vibrant community center. These halls not only provided meeting spaces but also became hubs for various activities that would shape the community's future.

The Genesis of Empowerment:

Mama Africa Youth Centre's primary mission was clear from the start:

i) To create self-employment opportunities for the local youth.

Recognizing the need for holistic development, the center introduced a

ii) Mentorship program to guide and inspire the young minds within and the group and the community.

iii) The commitment to physical well-being led to the establishment of a fitness and  Taekwondo center, aimed to instill discipline, promote physical well-being, and nurture a sense of self-confidence.

Expanding Horizons:

As Mama Africa Youth Centre continued to flourish, the vision expanded to encompass a football club, providing an avenue for local talent to shine on the field. Simultaneously, the center initiated talent show exposure events, creating platforms for individuals to showcase their diverse skills, be it in music, dance, drama, or the visual arts. These events not only celebrated local talent but also 

provided a stage for dreams to unfold.

Cultural Expression and Athletic Excellence:

Recognizing the rich tapestry of talent within the community, Mama Africa Youth Centre became a platform for cultural expression and athletic excellence.

• Cultural expression

The introduction of talent shows celebrated the diverse skills of the youth, ranging from 

music and dance to drama and visual arts.

• Athletic excellence

The center later expanded its horizons with the establishment of a football club, providing a stage for local athletes to showcase their prowess.

International Bonds with Claudia:

In 2018, the narrative of Mama Africa Youth Centre took an international turn when Joseph Nyamongo crossed paths with Claudia from Germany. Claudia, deeply moved by the center's commitment to positive change, became a steadfast friend and supporter. Her contributions went 

beyond borders, including donations of food, sports equipment, and sponsorship for talent show events. Claudia's involvement transcended borders, bringing an international touch to the local 

empowerment efforts.

Community Impact and Continued Growth:

Today, Mama Africa Youth Centre stands as a testament to the transformative power of community driven initiatives. From its origins as a dumping ground, it has evolved into a dynamic hub of empowerment, nurturing talents, fostering self-employment, and providing a sense of purpose for the youth in the community. The collaborative efforts of Joseph Nyamongo, his dedicated team, and the international support from Claudia have created a ripple effect, inspiring positive change and opening doors for a brighter future.

Towards a Brighter Future:

As Mama Africa Youth Centre continues its journey, the commitment to creating opportunities for self-employment, mentorship, fitness, Taekwondo training, and talent development remains unwavering. The story of Mama Africa Youth Centre is not just a biography; it is a testament to the  transformative potential embedded in communities when driven by a shared vision of empowerment, unity, and hope.