POSF Education Center In Chakama Kilifi County

Chakama is a remote area consisting of ‘46 small villages’ situated in Kilifi County, Kenya.  A report published by Muhsin Sheriff on Climate change and primary health care in Chakama, Kilifi County highlighted some of the challenges the residents are facing in relation to health and water and sanitation. It underlined the frequency and the longer periods of drought in this semi-arid region which has led to lack of water due to drying of rivers and poor quality of water as a result of water points’ pollution. It also mentions families that have been forced to migrate in search of basic livelihood needs like water, food and sources of income. 

In addition to these challenges, reports have indicated the dire need of quality and accessible education as well as health services. In his report, Muhsin says ‘health effects are seen in the rising number of people suffering from malnutrition and gastroenteritis as well as in terms of mental health problems. Primary health care services are not always available, and the quality of such services is poor. Facilities and healthcare workers also struggle to be resilient in the face of the same environmental challenges. Local non-government organizations are attempting to assist through health and social services, community engagement and multi-sectoral action. 

Raukani is one of the forty six villages in Chakama with a population of 700 households that are sparsely distributed.  Currently, school going children are forced to walk for 20kms to and from school every day making them vulnerable to sexual violence and attack by wild animals.  Community members seeking health services continue to face similar dangers and risk losing their lives due to delayed medical assistance.

In response to this, Pwani One Shilling Foundation (POSF) has come up with a project that shall be located in Raukani village dubbed ‘Pwani One Shilling Foundation Education Centre’ (POSFEC) sitting on a fourteen acre land. This project is estimated to cost Kshs. 400 million to be funded through POSF by well-wishers and donors. It intends to construct amenities including a Masjid, a School with boarding facilities, a Health facility and a Rescue Centre with the aim of complementing the County’s efforts and contribute to improved education and health outcomes within the area. These amenities shall offer free education and water services as well as provide affordable health and social protection services to vulnerable persons in the community.