US AFRICOM Commander visits SHOFCO to highlight community-led empowerment in Kenya

The visit, celebrated by the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi, emphasized the link between strong communities and robust security frameworks. "Strong security begins with strong communities," the Embassy stated on Twitter.

SHOFCO Founder and CEO Dr. Kennedy Odede described the visit as a milestone in strengthening partnerships aimed at enhancing peace and security through community-led initiatives.

"Global peace begins with secure and empowered grassroots communities. Strengthening local security is not just essential—it’s the foundation for sustainable, global stability," Dr. Odede stated.

He praised the collaboration with AFRICOM as a step toward building a more peaceful world, rooted in initiatives that prioritize local solutions.

General Langley's visit followed a meeting with Kenyan President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi. President Ruto acknowledged the strong peace and security partnership between Kenya and the U.S., which he said has significantly bolstered efforts to combat terrorism and transnational crimes in Eastern Africa.

SHOFCO operates in 40 counties across Kenya, impacting over four million lives through its holistic community development approach. Its programs address education, healthcare, water and sanitation, economic empowerment, youth development, and community mobilization to uplift urban slum and rural communities.

The organization’s community-driven model has garnered global recognition. In 2018, SHOFCO received the Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize, the world’s largest humanitarian award. In 2022, the Bridgespan Group conducted a case study highlighting SHOFCO’s sustainable impact, crediting its success to community ownership.

General Langley's visit underscores the crucial role grassroots organizations play in fostering resilience and security in vulnerable communities.