The Jamhuri Awards on Saturday 22nd November brought together leaders, innovators, and changemakers working to shape Kenya’s future. The ceremony not only celebrated individual excellence but also amplified critical conversations around youth empowerment, national development, and community-driven transformation. Among the honoree’s was Elizabeth Anyango Nyarkathomo of Change Africa Foundation (CAF), recognized in the Youth Empowerment and Community Impact category for her extensive grassroots work. Elizabeth, who has announced her intention to vie for the Siaya County Woman Representative seat, was celebrated for her long-standing commitment to uplifting young people and strengthening community structures.
Through Change Africa Foundation, Elizabeth has led programs that equip young people with practical skills, ignite confidence, and open pathways to sustainable livelihoods. CAF’s technical and vocational training programs have empowered youth with carpentry, tailoring, digital literacy, and entrepreneurship skills. The Wezesha Vijana initiative, one of her flagship programs, has been revolutionary in supporting adolescent girls and young women helping them navigate economic challenges, access life skills, and rise above barriers that limit their potential. She has further championed child protection, gender-based violence prevention, leadership development, and organic farming projects that strengthen household food security.
Environmental conservation also forms a key pillar of her work. Under her leadership, over 30 schools have partnered with CAF to plant indigenous trees, establish kitchen gardens, and weave environmental literacy into daily learning. These initiatives have not only fostered climate consciousness among young people but have also united communities towards long-term ecological stewardship.
Her award was especially meaningful in a night framed by a powerful call to action from guest speaker Ndindi Nyoro, who challenged Kenyans to “do much more than average” and to constantly stretch beyond their talents. He underscored the need for Kenya and Africa to invest in low-hanging fruits and adopt value addition in all sectors, lamenting that the country still largely relies on packaging rather than full-cycle manufacturing despite having abundant raw materials. Nyoro highlighted the high cost of imported edible oil inputs, the misconception of assembly as manufacturing, and the underutilization of Kenya’s stock market, urging citizens especially the youth to actively participate in wealth creation and capital markets.
He also called on the Ministry of Education to withdraw the circular increasing school fees to KSh 22,000, stressing that parents should not bear additional burdens, and further urged the government to confirm Junior Secondary School interns to permanent and pensionable terms by January.
Elizabeth’s work powerfully aligns with this national call. At a time when the country is pushing for local solutions, value creation, and youth inclusion, her programs stand as a practical model of what empowerment looks like on the ground.
By skilling the youth, empowering girls, nurturing environmental responsibility, and championing community-centered growth, she embodies the very spirit of progress Kenya seeks.
Her recognition at the Jamhuri Awards is therefore not just a personal milestone, it is a testament to the transformative power of grassroots leadership. As she steps forward with her sights on serving Siaya County at a larger scale, Elizabeth Anyango Nyarkathomo carries with her a proven track record, one defined by service, integrity, and meaningful impact. Her journey reminds us that real change begins with intentional action, and her work continues to light a path for countless young people across Kenya.
