Medical Mission in Mathare Slum
In the heart of Nairobi, Kenya, lies Mathare, one of the largest slums in Africa, where over 500,000 people live in densely packed homes. This vibrant community struggles with limited access to basic needs. Amidst these struggles, there is a beacon of hope: the Living Word Church (LWC), FFP’s partner for the annual FFP mission trip. They are there year-round serving their community in a variety of ways.
Addressing Urgent Healthcare Needs
For many residents of Mathare, accessing healthcare is a luxury they cannot afford. The slum’s overcrowded conditions, inadequate sanitation, and high unemployment rates exacerbate the spread of respiratory infections and waterborne illnesses. Many people live with chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension without access to necessary treatments. Foundation for Peace steps in to bridge this gap by organizing a medical education program for the community, a free clinic open to all with the Living Word Church and follow-up care for many of the neediest cases.
At first sight, the children in our photos look happy and full of energy. When people eagerly accept the opportunity to see a physician, we see a different side of life in the community. We find children and adults living with untreated fractures, injuries from assaults, complications of chronic diseases and diagnosed, untreated cancers due to lack of funds and more.
Impact on the Community
The FFP team’s medical activities bring tangible benefits to the Mathare community.
- Preventive Care and Education
Beyond treating illnesses, FFP partners with Kenyan experts to emphasize preventive care.
- Utilizing the church facilities, seminars for residents about hygiene practices, nutrition, and the importance of seeking medical attention early, empower people to take charge of their health. In 2024, the topic was cancer prevention, taught by a Kenyan oncology nurse educator.
- Access to Diagnosis and Treatment
Both acute and chronic conditions left unmanaged can lead to severe complications or death. The three days of clinics provide diagnostic services and medications free of charge, without regard to religion, tribal affiliations, gender etc. This may be the first time some have received such care. - Follow-up Care: Building Trust and Community Resilience
While our mission teams serve in person once each year, FFP provides for medical follow-up after the trip. Led by Pastor Oliver Agufa, we provide financial support for critical surgeries, access to the national healthcare system, evaluation and assistance for children with developmental delays and much more.
Your donations to Where Needed Most ensure the funds are ready as these needs arise.
In 2024, the FFP team, pictured below including Living Word Church members and volunteers from Medical Missions Africa, provided free medical services for over 1,000 people. Many of the patients would otherwise not have received essential care or the medicines they needed.
Living Word Church Services to the Community
LWC also addresses the educational needs of the community. We are grateful to help support Tumaini, operated by the Living Word Church, as it has become a top-rated school in the region. Parents can pay very little to send their children there. Outside support is key to help educate the children toward better futures.
LWC also provides the infrastructure to support students to complete high school, college and medical school. Your donations to Where Needed Most ensure the funds are ready as when students fall short in raising their tuition to continue their education.
IN addition to more traditional church outreach, LWC also organizes savings clubs, volunteer care for the chronically ill in their homes, training for entrepreneurship and has an outreach to the deaf community. Through this variety of community activities, the leadership of the Living Word Church a consistent presence, providing care and building trust with the residents of Mathare. This relationship fosters community resilience, as healthier individuals contribute more effectively to their families and the local economy.
The Bigger Picture
The work of Living Word Church and the Foundation for Peace in Mathare is a testament to the power of compassion and action.
However, the demand for such services far outweighs the resources available. Donations, partnerships, and volunteer support play a crucial role in expanding the reach and impact of these clinics.
How You Can Help
If you’re inspired by the work being done in Mathare, there are many ways to contribute:
- Donate: Donate to Where Needed Most, so FFP is ready to bridge the gap as critical needs arise. Financial contributions help fund medical care, food, and educational opportunities.
- Volunteer: Medical professionals and support staff are always needed to keep the clinics running smoothly. Join our next trip from July 23 - August 3, 2025, learn more by clicking here.
- Spread Awareness: Follow the Foundation for Peace’s social media channels for updates on our impactful work.
Together, we can be part of the transformation of Mathare into a healthier community.