All About Ruiru
We thought donors and supporters would like to know a little more about the Ruiru area, where most of our work is focused. The following overview is written by a social worker in the area.
The Ruiru area has undergone significant growth and continuous changes across various dimensions:
Political Factors
Despite occasional challenges arising from corruption by some government officials, collaboration with the government, particularly through Community Health Promoters (CHP), has been established. This partnership involves mutual referrals, assistance in tracing clients, and support in accessing essential documents such as birth certificates through local chiefs.
Economic Factors
The tough economic climate has impacted the area's clients, leading to a scarcity of casual jobs and increased commodity prices.
Families, often large, struggle to afford basic necessities, with some resorting to criminal activities due to financial strain.
Social Factors
Large families, especially single-headed households, face challenges in providing for their members. Economic difficulties have led some clients to engage in unlawful activities, further exacerbating their troubles.
Technological Factors
Technological limitations, including a lack of electricity and network connectivity, hinder communication with clients. Additionally, the pervasive influence of technology exposes youth and children to potentially harmful content, contributing to social challenges.
Environmental Factors
While the presence of manufacturing companies provides employment opportunities, environmental pollution is a concern. Poor drainage during rainy seasons leads to health issues, such as malaria and pneumonia, affecting the community.
Legal Factors
Limited awareness of applicable laws and the high cost of legal representation leave many clients unable to pursue their cases, especially in instances of gender-based violence (GBV) or workplace violations. The government has implemented policies affecting clients, such as increased fees for ID replacements and applications, impacting those with financial constraints. However, positive initiatives, including affordable housing programs and educational enhancements, have contributed to positive changes in the community. Government institutions such as hospitals, collaborate with social workers to alleviate the financial burden on clients. Additionally, schools in the area are addressing the issue of children not enrolled in school, demonstrating a commitment to education.
The in-depth support model has proven effective in the area facilitating collaborative problem-solving through case conferencing. This approach allows for timely interventions and a comprehensive understanding of client's needs, streamlining the assistance process.