Empowering Orphans and Vulnerable Children through Collaborative Partnerships
USAID AMPATH Uzima took a significant step forward in the objective to empower Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVCs) by signing Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with key economic stakeholders to support business growth for OVC families. This momentous occasion brought together representatives from Jumuiya Women Fund, Rural Women Peace Link (RWPL), Savannah Honey, and the Directorate of Children Services in Uasin Gishu County, highlighting the collective commitment to make a difference in the lives of OVCs.
USAID AMPATH Uzima’s OVC program aims to improve health, education, protection, and socio-economic outcomes among children and adolescents living with and affected by HIV, their caregivers and families. The commitment to uplift their lives has been a cornerstone of USAID AMPATH Uzima's objective.
In his opening remarks, Prof. Sylvester Kimaiyo, Chief of Party for USAID AMPATH Uzima, set the tone for the event by emphasizing the importance of building sustainable programs that start at the grassroots level and ascend towards remarkable achievements. "We need to have sustainable programs with our people. We need to build from the grassroots going up. As AMPATH, we are delighted to start this month. We are going to implement the deliberations in the MoU. We are starting this now, and we want to sit 30 years from now and say we started this, and this is where we are, and these are our successes. Thank you for your support and for opening up to partnership."
This vision emphasizes that real, lasting change comes from within communities, supported through collaboration, and dedication from all stakeholders.
Prof. Sylvester Kimaiyo took a moment to acknowledge the CEO of MTRH Dr. Wilson Aruasa, MBS, EBS for his continuous support of the USAID AMPATH Uzima program. This support has been instrumental in ensuring that the program can reach and impact a wider population of OVCs.
With the MoUs now signed, the next steps involve identifying potential beneficiaries from those already enrolled in the OVC program. Each partner will contribute their unique resources and expertise to support OVCs who fit into their specific requirements. A formal support request will be presented, and progress will be monitored closely to ensure that the objectives are met and that real change occurs in the lives of OVCs.
Key AMPATH staff present at the signing, included the Deputy Chief of Party, Senior Director of Finance and Administration, Chief Technical Officer, OVC Program Manager, Uasin Gishu County Coordinator, and Grants and Compliance Director.
The signing of these MoUs symbolizes a unified commitment to the welfare and empowerment of Orphans and Vulnerable Children. These collaborations promise to make a meaningful impact, both in the immediate future and for generations to come. As these partnerships strengthen and grow, we can look forward to a brighter future where OVCs are not only supported but also empowered to thrive.
