A road to recovery

Edward, at 53 years old, was left with a debilitating injury after a motorcycle accident.He was delivering tomatoes for work and swerved to avoid goats on the road, and since then, he has been unable to work due to ongoing physical challenges. His wife Mekena has taken on work and the responsibility for his care while he recovers.

The family faces continued challenges, including Mekena being criticised by other community members for taking on her husband’s care and the financial burden of less income. The couple have been together for over 30 years and have established a life together with their children,but this has been one of the most challenging times in their lives. They attribute being able to thrive despite Edward’s injury to the strengths-based approach support of Imarisha Maisha,which helped them focus on the strengths and capabilities they had.

When asked about their involvement in the project, Edward stated that “if there’s a couple that has benefited from Imarisha Maisha, it’sus”.

He explained that they were taught not to just sit at home, but to find ways to use whatever little they had to contribute to their finances.

The project trained them in agricultural skills with the intention of the family being able to support themselves. Mekena has since rented pieces of land to grow crops for sale and keeps goats to sell. They both work in their garden to ensure the family can live on the fruits and vegetables they produce.

However, the couple attributed more than just financial advice to Imarisha Maisha's impact. The support of their local community group also transformed their marriage. Edward and Mekena were encouraged to reflect on how they relate to each other and openly discuss how they can be better partners. Their son, Makau, has noticed this and stated that “it feels good to see my parents love and support each other the way they do”.

Edward and Mekena thank Imarisha Maisha for teaching them the skills needed to thrive as a family.