The Kenyan Family Forum began in April and provides support for Kenyan immigrants who have moved here from Africa.
The forum brings families together and acts as a support group, where all its members unite to help each other through any difficulty they may face.
Joseph Nyaga, chairman of Kenya Family Forum explained: “The main focus is on improving the health and development of young members and communicating strong values to them, to keep them away from anti-social behaviour, make them good citizens and integrate them into society”. He continued:
“We feel as people and families, it is important to be there for each other. When you come to a new place you feel alone, it can be very reassuring to know there are others like you.”
Vice Chairman, Patrick Liyayi, explained that the group have taken part in various events since their formation, including a trip to Cleethorpes in July and now plan a clean up of both Scott and Abbeyfield Roads on 7th October. The group also organises lessons for youngsters with a mix of work and play during am and pm sessions.
The committee meets every month to discuss feedback and plan for the future, but their main concern currently is funding.
“We need funding to help with our projects,” he explained.
“For example, when we go on day trips, we are the ones who must pay the cost, but this cannot happen every time as we also have families to look after, it would also help us to further develop our community by reaching out to other people,”
Patrick stressed. Meetings take place in member’s homes, but funding would allow the group to rent an office, “We have a meeting about this with the City Council at the end of September,” said Joseph.
With about thirty adults and twenty youth members already involved, it seems the Kenya Family Forum is already going places.
We are always welcoming new members as there are many Kenyan families in Sheffield, said Elizabeth Mbure, the treasurer.
Other officers include Kariuki Gakuru – Activity Co-ordinator, Gladys Gesage – Assistant Treasurer, Sarah Ambundo – Secretary, Christine Mbure – Youth Secretary and Emanuel Ambundo – Youth Chairman. The planned clean up of Scott and Abbeyfield Roads is on 7th October from 9am–1pm, followed by a picnic in the park. Anyone wishing to take part should contact Joseph Nyaga on 0784 956 3569.