28/04/2026
Asha, a 33 year old mother of three, lives in Thika with her husband Abdi, a motorbike rider. Together, they are raising their children, Zuri aged 11, Baraka aged 5, and Neema aged 1.
At one point, their home was filled with worry and uncertainty. Their youngest daughter, Neema, was battling tuberculosis and severe malnutrition, leaving her weak and unable to gain weight. Fear of infection kept neighbours away, and Asha often felt isolated and judged.
At the same time, Baraka, their secondborn, who has autism, needed constant care and support. With Abdi working long hours to provide for the family, much of the caregiving responsibility fell on Asha, making the situation even more overwhelming.
Their firstborn, Zuri, also faced a serious challenge after suffering an eye injury that required urgent medical attention.
Everything began to change when Asha connected with Macheo through a support group at the Community Health Centre. Through a holistic approach, the family received the care they desperately needed. Neema was enrolled in a nutrition program and received essential supplements, while Asha received mental health support that helped her regain strength and hope.
Baraka accessed medical care that improved his well-being and reduced his hyperactivity, while Zuri received the treatment she needed for her eye injury and recovered well. Asha was also supported to start a small mitumba business, creating an additional source of income alongside Abdi’s work.
Today, Asha and her family are doing much better. Their children are healthier, in school, and thriving. Asha now walks confidently in her community, no longer held back by stigma.
“I sincerely appreciate Macheo. When others stayed away because of my daughter, you restored my sense of worth. Your presence meant everything.’’
This family’s journey is a powerful reminder that with the right support, hope can be restored and lives transformed.
