Our Story

POAK (Poverty Africa - Kenya) was founded on 7th December 1997 by a group of community leaders who saw the need to address poverty in their communities.

What began as a grassroots initiative has grown into an organization working with communities across 8 counties in Kenya. Our approach has remained grounded in a simple principle: sustainable change begins when communities are involved in shaping their own future.

Over the years, POAK has supported more than 5,000 Kenyans and reached over 120 communities through initiatives in youth digital skills, women's economic empowerment, maternal and child health, mental health and community development.

Our beginning Founded on 7th December 1997 More than 28 years of working alongside communities in Kenya.

Message from Our Co-founder

"When we started POAK in 1997, we had a simple belief: that poverty is not inevitable, but a challenge that can be overcome when communities come together. Today, after 28 years, I am prouder than ever of what we've accomplished together. We've seen women start businesses, youth find meaningful employment, mothers access healthcare, and communities take ownership of their development. But our work is far from done. Every day, we renew our commitment to creating a Kenya free from poverty."

Eng. Edwin Liyai

Co-founder

Mission & Vision

Our Mission

To alleviate all forms of poverty in Kenya and actively involve all sectors of society in achieving this goal, improving living standards for Kenyans.

Our Vision

A Kenya free from poverty where every individual has equal opportunities to thrive, with empowered communities driving their own sustainable development.

Core Values

Equity & Inclusion

Every Kenyan deserves equal opportunities regardless of background.

Community Empowerment

We place communities at the center of development.

Integrity & Accountability

We uphold transparency and accountability in our work.

Partnership & Collaboration

We work with government, NGOs, partners and communities to create lasting change.

Sustainability

We promote solutions that create lasting benefits for communities.

Innovation & Learning

We continue to learn, adapt and improve the way we deliver our programs.

Board of Directors

Our board provides strategic leadership, oversight and accountability.

Senior Counsel Stephen Ligunya

Board Chairperson

Dr. Bernard Omwenga

Vice Chairperson

Mr. Nahashon Njoroge

Financial Expert / Advisor

Our Team

Meet the people working to turn our mission into action.

Luke Alela

Executive Director

Sheilla Muhindi

Programs Manager

Fidel Maina

Head of Monitoring & Evaluation

Marvin Kabuka

Field Programs Coordinator

Samuel Otia

IT and Digital Marketing

POVERTY AFRICA KENYA

Our Journey

For more than 28 years, POAK has worked alongside communities to create opportunities and respond to changing needs. Our journey has included periods of growth, transition and renewal, while remaining grounded in community development.

1997

The Beginning

POAK was founded on 7th December 1997 with a commitment to addressing poverty and supporting underserved communities.

1999

Supporting Families

In its early years, POAK supported families through in-kind donations while building relationships within the community.

2000

Growing into the Community

POAK began extending its work beyond its initial activities, with a stronger focus on community development and local capacity.

2001

Expanding Our Reach

The organization expanded its work to additional communities and counties, strengthening its presence across Kenya.

2006

Improving Learning Spaces

POAK supported classroom renovation initiatives aimed at creating better learning environments for children.

2006–2025

A Period of Transition

POAK went through a period of dormancy as the organization underwent significant changes before beginning a new chapter.

2026

A New Chapter

POAK returned with renewed energy and a broader focus on the changing needs of communities across Kenya.

About POAK