The Impact

“When your hair is brittle your heart is broken.”

— Somali proverb

“I used to fear speaking to people, but now I am able to present my thoughts in public with out fear.”

Program Participant

“[It] has given me the opportunity to see [how] issues our community is facing [are] caused by trauma and how I can help .”

Circle Keeper

“I offer a listening ear to everyone, unlike before.”

A circle participant

Mama Zuria Omar

A community leader from Majengo, an informal settlement in Nairobi, Kenya, shares her powerful story of transformation after experiencing an unspeakable loss. Mama Zuria stoically endured the pain, uncertainty, and stigma surrounding her son's recruitment to al Shabaab, only to lose him upon his return home. With the help of Green String Network's Kumekucha program, a community well-being and resilience initiative, Mama Zuria found a path to forgiveness and healing. Today, she is a highly valued leader and resource in her community, working to promote peace, reconciliation, and healing not just in Majengo, but beyond.

Research and Publications