Machakos University Champions Community led Development at CORPS AFRICA Pitch Day

Machakos University reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable community development by participating in the CORPS AFRICA Pitch Day held on 1st April 2026 at Ole Sereni Hotel in Nairobi. The high-impact forum convened a dynamic network of stakeholders dedicated to advancing community-driven solutions across Kenya, serving as both a project showcase platform and a resource mobilization hub to bridge funding gaps for grassroots initiatives.

The University’s participation was spearheaded by the School of Agriculture, Environment and Health Sciences, reflecting its strong academic and practical focus on addressing real-world community challenges. The delegation from the School included Dr. Samuel Kiumbuku, Lecturer, Environmental Sciences Department; Dr. Esther Nduku, Chair of Department, Health Sciences; three students from the School; and a representative from the Corporate Affairs and Public Relations Department.

The event spotlighted transformative projects targeting semi-arid and underserved regions, including Tharaka-Nithi, Meru, Baringo, Kakamega, Kitui, and Busia counties, areas grappling with persistent challenges such as water scarcity, food insecurity, and limited access to essential services.

Demonstrating its proactive role in community empowerment, Machakos University extended its support towards a shallow well construction project in Kitui County. Spearheaded by CORPS AFRICA volunteer Owen Maina, the initiative aims to provide reliable access to clean water for several villages. The project is expected to significantly improve community health, ease the burden of long-distance water collection, particularly for women and children, and support agricultural activities through increased water availability.

The event brought together key development partners, including Safaricom Foundation, Meru University, and Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, among others, all united by a shared vision of sustainable and inclusive community transformation. The Chief Guest, Safaricom Foundation Chairperson Mr. Joseph Ogutu, emphasized the critical need to invest in young people, nurturing a generation of doers, thinkers, and leaders capable of driving meaningful societal change.

In her opening remarks, CORPS AFRICA Country Director Ms. Patricia King’ori highlighted the organization’s dedication to fostering locally driven solutions through youth engagement. She underscored the impact of CORPS AFRICA’s volunteer program, which equips young Africans aged 18 to 35 with the skills to collaboratively identify community challenges and implement sustainable, high-impact interventions.

The projects showcased during the pitch demonstrated the power of community-based approaches in addressing real-world challenges, from water access initiatives to agricultural and livelihood programs, while ensuring long-term sustainability through community ownership and participation.

In recognition of its unwavering support and commitment to impactful partnerships, Machakos University was honored with gifts and souvenirs, symbolizing appreciation for its role in advancing community development initiatives.

As a forward-looking institution, Machakos University remains steadfast in its mission to promote sustainable development, empower communities, and nurture future leaders. Through strategic collaborations with organizations such as CORPS AFRICA and its partners, the University continues to play a pivotal role in building resilient, self-reliant, and thriving communities across the region.