We envision a strong foundation for all children, and smooth transition for all youth – where children are well-equipped with the foundational skills for learning, and youth well-equipped with skills for life and work.
I spend much of my time in conversations with different stakeholders thinking through policy priorities, reflecting on what is working. It is in these conversations that one truth has become impossible to ignore: when young people are listened to, education works better. I was reminded of this during a school visit where a teacher trainee was leading […]
By Amos Kaburu and Walter Odondi The Moment Everything Changes Imagine a child discovering that words unlock stories. Not someday, but today. In December 2025, in two counties across Kenya, 208 children experienced that moment for the first time. They came to learning camps unable to read a story. They left reading one. From zero to 208 […]
Our work with KNEC strengthened, particularly on Life Skills and Values assessments self-awareness, collaboration, problemsolving, and respect. Zizi Afrique’s technicalleadership was recognised during stakeholder engagements, leading to commitments for deeper collaboration in: i) Capacity-building for subject specialists; ii) Item development and analysis (classical test theory, item response theory, and reliability estimation);iii) Assessment moderation and scoring; […]
This quarter, the Unlocking Data Initiative (UDI) made major strides in building a more coherent and evidence-driven education ecosystem. Five County Directors of Education participated in harmonising foundational learning data collection tools, paving the way for consistent, comparable data across counties. Zizi Afrique also deepened her collaboration with the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) towards […]
This month, Zizi Afrique Foundation team stepped away from the familiar rhythm of desks, timelines, and field activities and journeyed to the majestic Tafaria Castle in Nyeri. The retreat served as a moment to breathe, connect, dream, reflect, take stock of the gains and chart the organization’s next chapter. Tafaria Castle, perched against rolling hills […]
Last week, we did something monumental. We planted the flag of Zizi Afrique Foundation at the summit of Lenana Peak, Mount Kenya (4,985m). This was more than a physical achievement; it was a profound embodiment of the very values that guide our work. The mountain, in its majestic and treacherous beauty, tested the team on […]
In education, “evidence” takes many forms. It can be drawn from large-scale research studies such as the Tusome (Let’s read) literacy program, or from classroom data gathered through assessments, observations, and learning analytics. Equally important is the knowledge teachers develop through daily practice; approaches refined over time through trial, reflection and adjustment. Combined, these sources […]
It was one of those crisp Nairobi mornings, the city just beginning to stir to life. Sitting in the famous Super Metro matatu (the Kenyan public transport minibuses), half lost in thought, I suddenly noticed a commotion ahead. A crowd. The driver, just as curious as the rest of us, slowed down and pulled over. […]
My name is Benson Gathumbi Muthara. I like to call myself a dreamer, go-getter, and someone who never gives up easily. This is the story of how the Tenda Wema initiative, in partnership with Zizi Afrique and Safaricom Foundation, helped me keep my education dream alive. I was born and raised in a small village […]
Life is not always a straight road. Sometimes it curves, dips or rises in ways we never expect. My education journey is one such winding path, marked by unseen hands, answered prayers and burning desires to become more than what my circumstances could allow. Back in 2021, at the height of a pandemic that caged […]
“Greetings dear reader. I am not feeling well today. I may sleep a little bit longer than usual. I call it eternal sleep.” This was the haunting final post on social media by a man from Baringo County—a father battling a crippling betting addiction, before he took his own life. In another heartbreaking case, a […]
The Day of the African Child, observed each year on June 16, is a powerful reminder of Africa’s collective responsibility to uphold and protect the rights of children. This year’s theme, “Planning and Budgeting for Children’s Rights: Progress since 2010,” comes at a time when Kenya finds itself at a crossroads. What was once one […]
As we join the world in celebrating the Day of the African Child this year, under the theme “Planning and Budgeting for Children’s Rights: Progress Since 2010,” we draw inspiration from Grace Ogot’s poem “Future Leaders”. Children are the seed of tomorrow, who need to be nurtured by wisdom, courage and vision. The African child […]
One thing about Gen Z is that we love celebrating every little win, and when it comes to surviving an intense semester (which honestly felt like a marathon with no breaks), we deserve to go all out! So, as soon as we handed in our last exam paper, the only thing on our mind was […]
As we mark the 2024 International Day of the Girl, themed “Girls’ Vision for the Future”, I find myself reflecting not only on the future girls are building but on the powerful women who have shaped my past and present. These women have been instrumental in moulding me into the person I am today strong, […]
“Without big data, you are blind and deaf in the middle of a freeway.” – Geoffrey Moore In recent years, the landscape of data-driven decision-making has evolved significantly. We now have access to more data than ever before, supported by advanced computing tools that enable sophisticated analysis. This blog is not intended to be a […]
There has been a growing recognition of the importance of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in addressing youth unemployment and fostering economic development in recent years. Amidst this backdrop, rebranding initiatives have played a pivotal role in reshaping perceptions and promoting TVET as a viable career pathway for young people. Zizi Afrique, in […]
As the world celebrates International Sign Language Day on September 23rd, we honor the unique languages of the deaf community. In Kenya, we are left with an uncomfortable question: Are we truly able to celebrate Kenya Sign Language (KSL), or are we merely glossing over deep-rooted issues? Kenya is over 60 years old, yet the […]
In the southeastern stretch of Kenya, where the sun burns with the intensity of a melting pot, you will find the Maasai tribe wearing vibrant shukas, painting Kajiado in their rich colors. Here, where acacia trees stand in the footprints of ancestors, lies an inspiring story of a young girl named Beatrice Saibulu. Her story, […]
My name is Kelly Joy Makena, and I am a student at Pioneer International University. I am pursuing a Bachelor of Education in Arts, with a focus on English literature. Teaching has always been a passion of mine because as a teacher, you have the opportunity to celebrate the success of your students. I see […]
“I went to Alliance!” Is a statement that most Alliance High School Alumnus feel compelled to often start their conversations with. Albeit never having stepped foot in Alliance, I also feel compelled to start this ramble with this conviction: There are two categories of individuals; Those that grow up knowing the kind of careers they […]
Kenya’s education system is undergoing a critical transformation to ensure that every child, regardless of his/her socio-economic background, has equitable access to quality education. The Presidential Working Party on Education Reform (PWPER) report, crafted through extensive consultations with stakeholders nationwide, reflects the government’s commitment to addressing disparities in the education sector through collaboration and partnership. […]
My experiences in education often remind me of the crucial role that family and community play in the learning process. This awareness took root during my first teaching experience when I encountered a classroom of eager young students who sought more than just the lessons I had prepared. They needed parental guidance, encouragement, and support […]
Early Childhood Development (ECD) in Kenya, particularly in Samburu County, is predominantly viewed through the lens of education services provided for at Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) centers. This narrow interpretation was affirmed when the Samburu County Leadership acknowledged that most of the ECD programmes in the county included construction of ECDE classrooms, provision of […]
As the sun begins its assent over Ongata-Rongai, painting the sky with hues of hope and promise, my day unfolds with the familiar rhythm of routine. A typical morning for me involves a strategic departure from home to beat the infamous rush hour traffic and exorbitant matatu fares. My routine includes ensuring that my younger […]
“They call it the north, but we call it home”, Sololo is a small town nestled in the expansive landscape of Marsabit county. It serves as a pivotal town amidst a backdrop of rugged beauty and cultural richness and whose lives revolve around traditional pastoralism and a deep connection to the land. I grew up […]
As we navigate through an increasingly fast-paced and ever-changing world, the concept of capacity-building has become more crucial than ever. Whether it’s enhancing skills, honing abilities, or leveraging resources, the process of capacity-building is essential for individuals and institutions to not just survive, but thrive in the modern world. This holds true, particularly in the […]
In the bustling corridors of the Zizi Afrique Foundation, where passion meets purpose and dedication knows no bounds, the concept of “work-life balance” often emerges as a guiding principle amidst our collective pursuit of social impact. As an intern within this dynamic organization, I’ve found myself immersed in a whirlwind of meaningful projects, collaborative endeavors, […]
Embarking on a journey to discover innovative learning experiences is always an exciting adventure. Join me as I recount the inspiring visit to the Gravity CBC Resource Centre, where education meets creativity and fun. From the warm welcome to the insightful briefing, our day was filled with captivating moments that I can’t wait to share […]
“Strategies implemented in schools to maximize student learning should be evidence-based.”-The Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership Evidence-based education is an approach to teaching and learning that emphasises using empirical research to guide classroom instruction decisions and practices. This approach aims to ensure that educational methods and interventions are effective, efficient, and aligned with […]