About Us
We believe humans are happiest when they’re part of something greater.
ABOUT US
The United Cultural Empowerment and Social Community Organization – Africa (UCESCO Africa) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization operating in both the United States of America (USA) and Africa, with a primary focus on Kenya and Uganda.
Our mission is to alleviate poverty and empower vulnerable communities, particularly emphasizing support for women and children in marginalized areas.
At UCESCO Africa, we carry out a variety of programs across essential sectors such as education, healthcare, sanitation, and micro-enterprise development. By engaging directly with these communities, we offer practical assistance that fosters long-term sustainability and significant change.
UCESCO Africa is based in Nairobi, Kenya, with active branches in the USA, Mombasa, Samburu, and Uganda. Through our initiatives in education, healthcare, and economic empowerment, we are at the forefront of change, dedicated to creating opportunities and developing resilient, self-sufficient communities.
Our efforts over the years have had a direct impact on the following groups:
- Persons with Disabilities (Tree Side School)
- Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC)
- Vulnerable Single Mothers
- Youth
Alignment with National and Global Goals
In line with Kenya Vision 2030 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), UCESCO Africa’s programs aim to tackle critical issues related to poverty (SDG 1), inequality (SDG 10), health (SDG 3), education (SDG 4), and environmental sustainability (SDG 13). These frameworks direct our initiatives, ensuring that our work aligns with both global and national objectives for sustainable development.
WHAT WE DO
FREE MEDICAL CAMPS
One of our most significant initiatives is the Free Medical Camps, which provide essential healthcare services to underserved populations. Over the last three years, UCESCO-Africa has successfully organized major Free Medical Camps, greatly improving healthcare access for marginalized communities. In 2022, we delivered vital healthcare services to over 5,000 patients. In 2023, we served more than 7,000 patients, broadening our reach and impact. By 2024, we reached a milestone by treating 10,000 patients, establishing a new record in Nairobi. In our latest camp in 2025, we treated 13,928 patients, demonstrating our steadfast commitment to accessible, high-quality healthcare. Additionally, we have supported 70 patients by covering one year of SHA Health insurance, which aids their ongoing treatment and enhances their access to essential medical care. We also donated medicines valued at 2.5 million to Beyond Zero Clinic, Vostrum Clinic, and ACK Clinic, along with medical equipment to Dr. Simuyu for heart and dental care, benefiting the communities in the Kibera slum.
VOLUNTEER / INTERNSHIP ABROAD PROGRAM
Every month, UCESCO Africa welcomes between 10 and 50 international volunteers from diverse regions around the globe. These volunteers usually dedicate 2 to 24 weeks to engage with our community projects, making contributions in various fields such as education, healthcare, community development, and empowerment initiatives. A significant number of them come back months later, having established enduring connections and a deep commitment to our mission.
ADOPT A CHILD SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
In addition to the support from volunteers, UCESCO Africa offers scholarships to disadvantaged students living in slums and rural regions. Thanks to the generous donations from supporters, well-wishers, and past volunteers, we serve as a link that connects these students to a more promising future. Our responsibilities include thoroughly assessing applicants, overseeing scholarship funds, and performing home visits and follow-ups to track the academic progress and welfare of each student and their family. Scholarships Provided: 2022: 23 students (Kibera schools, through CAF America and F5 foundation) 2023: 47 students (9 secondary, 23 Samburu girls, 15 Peggy Lucas) 2024: 81 students (9 secondary, 20 Samburu girls, 52 Peggy Lucas, 4 Dream of Hope project), 63 Peggy Lucas, Dalton and Shinning Hope Total Scholarships (2022-2025): 214 students
EDUCATION AND TALENT DEVELOPMENT
Education and Talent Development: We have allocated Ksh 1.8 million annually for educational materials and learning resources to support vulnerable children in Kibera, Samburu, Mombasa, and Mathare, ensuring they have equitable access to quality education. Our process for selecting beneficiaries is grounded in transparency and fairness, utilizing Community Health Promoters (CHPs), local authorities, and public outreach to identify and assess those in genuine need. This strategic method ensures that assistance is directed to the most deserving children, equipping them with the necessary tools for academic achievement and long-term development. Infrastructure Development: Silver Springs Study Block: Completed in 2021-2022. It has benefited over 500 students from 2022 to 2024. Peggy Lucas School: Expanded from 2 rooms to 10 rooms, which now includes a library and a computer lab as of 2024. From 23 children and 2 teachers in 2022, we have grown to 12 teachers, 4 non-teaching staff, and 247 children at Peggy Lucas. Additionally, we constructed 6 toilets for Peggy Lucas School to improve hygiene standards for Kibera residents. New Horizon: We built 2 classroom blocks, a hall, and classrooms in partnership with UCESCO and volunteers, with roofing completed. The total investment is over 1.1 million. We also developed Samburu: transitioning from studying under a tree in 2022 to a temporary shade in 2023, and now to 2 completed permanent classroom blocks in 2024, with one more under construction in UCESCO’s designated area. University Engagement: We have established clubs in 4 universities (Kisii, Rift Valley, MKU, Gretsa) with over 600 student members participating in community initiatives, including mental health training, tours of the United Nations office, foreign language training, and community service activities.
ABOUT UCESCO AFRICA
volunteer / internship abroad program
Adopt a child sponsorship program
citadel medical camp in partnership with Ucesco Africa
Education and talent development
Meaningful travel with UCESCO AFRICA {travel with a purpose}
Our Mission
Empowering vulnerable communities for sustainable progress
Our Vision
A thriving Africa where every individual has access to education, healthcare, and freedom from harmful practices and poverty
Our Motto
Empowerment. Education. Philanthropy.