The University of Nairobi, United States International University- Africa (USIU) and Free Pentecostal Fellowship in Kenya (FPFK) have entered into a collaborative agreement to enhance child protection efforts in Busia through a project dubbed, ‘Linda Mtoto’ initiative.

The signing ceremony  was held at USIU-Africa on Tuesday, February 20, 2024. The Secretary General, FPFK, Rev. John Kitur, appraised those in attendance on the efforts of the church in the community. He noted that, ‘The church is in touch with the community, the church is impacting lives, and we need to increase those efforts by collaborating with universities so that we can  continue increasing our impact in the community by applying for funding jointly, engaging in students and staff exchanges.' 

The Vice Chancellor, UoN, Prof. Stephen Kiama underscored the importance of the collaboration citing that, ‘Both the church and the Universities are truth seekers. We spend so much of our time seeking the truth in different ways. ‘Prof. Kiama also appreciated the partnership noting that, ‘We are who we are because of the partnerships and friendships forged over the years. We value the essence of partnerships.’

‘Thank you for allowing universities into the space of community. Thank you for the commitment and success of this project to create lasting solutions and ending multi-generational trauma of children.'  noted the Vice Chancellor, USIU-Africa, Dr. Lola Omole-Odubekun, while welcoming the collaboration,  She added that Linda mtoto project seeks to address gaps in the society against children. ’

Dr. Lola highlighted that the project will use a participatory approach to address issues such as child abuse and prevention, Capacity building and community sensitization, Mental health programmes for children and parents

Prof. Beneah Musotso, Department of Sociology and Social Work is the co-Principal Investigator from the University of Nairobi.

The Dean, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences Prof. Jack Odhiambo and staff from the Sociology Department were present during the signing ceremony.