The Bariki Center began as a mere vision. Dr. Mary Gitau, the founder, grew up in rural Kenya, where she witnessed and experienced poverty firsthand. Mary recognized the challenges faced by Kenyan women, especially in rural areas, who had limited participation in social, economic, and political processes due to historical and sociocultural factors.

After venturing to the United States to pursue her college degree, Mary’s journey took her from a community college in upstate New York to earning a doctoral degree from the University of Wyoming. Eventually, she became a professor herself.

While teaching a global issues social work class at Clarke University in Dubuque, Iowa, in 2015, Mary encouraged her students to put theoretical learning into practice. They initiated the ‘Beads for Needs’ project, teaching impoverished Kenyan women to craft and sell intricate products like placemats, keychain holders, and fruit baskets.

In 2017 and 2020, two groups of college students from Dubuque embarked on two-week study abroad trips to Kenya, laying the groundwork for the Bariki Community Learning Center through their fundraising efforts.

In January 2020, Clarke and Loras students, along with two professors, joined forces with Kenyan volunteers for the construction of the center. Over five days, the building shell was completed as students and local volunteers worked hand in hand. Students lived with local families, engaging in a wide range of community activities.

Since 2020, construction on the community center has continued, with the main structure completed by 2021, thanks to individual donations and grants from local institutions, which we gratefully acknowledge.

In 2021, essential facilities, including rainwater harvesting infrastructure, toilets, access roads, and kitchen cabinets, were installed. By 2022, the Bariki Community Learning Center, now equipped with a library, computer room, industrial kitchen, dining area, community hall, and a thriving garden, became fully functional.

In 2022, the center hosted three special one-day workshops, serving 85 participants, including two for adults focusing on health and wellness, and another for youth, addressing relationships and substance abuse. Additionally, 50 young individuals attended the weekly computer classes offered on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, while 30 women actively engaged in the organic garden.

The center has evolved into a nurturing environment, enabling women to acquire new gardening and culinary skills, and fostering a space for Kinangop’s youth to enhance their technological proficiency. Now, the Gazelle Impact board looks to the future, with endeavors to secure funding for ongoing courses and the addition of a borehole well, ensuring a sustainable clean water source.