MWAK, Family Bank Foundation Deepen Sponsorship to Empower KDF Children Through TVET Programme
Military Wives Association of Kenya (MWAK) Chair Grace Kahariri & The Family Group Foundation Chair Francis Muraya, after signing a partnership to support scholarships, vocational training, youth entrepreneurship, and environmental programmes during the graduation of 89 dependents of Kenya Army service men and women from the TVET programme by the Foundation and MWAK.
NAIROBI, April 9, 2026 — The Military Wives Association of Kenya (MWAK), in partnership with the Family Group Foundation, has strengthened its sponsorship of technical and vocational training for children of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) personnel, as 89 dependants graduated under the 4th cohort of the Tufuzu Youth Construction Skills programme at Embakasi Garrison.
The initiative, implemented at the Defence Forces Technical College (DEFTEC), marks a major milestone in institutionalising skills development within military families, with a focus on youth aged 18–25. The programme has now benefited a total of 290 dependants drawn from the Kenya Army, Air Force and Navy.
The 4th cohort also became the pioneer class of the “TVET on Wheels” model, an innovative mobile training approach designed to expand access to technical education. The programme is sponsored through a collaboration between MWAK, the Family Bank Foundation, and the Kenya Army.
Speaking during the graduation, Chief of Defence Forces, General Charles Kahariri, described the initiative as a strategic investment in the resilience of military families.
“This partnership has equipped these young men and women with technical skills and instilled confidence. It strengthens the welfare backbone that supports our Defence Forces,” he said.
He called for the expansion of the programme through increased infrastructure and course offerings to ensure sustainability and gender balance, adding that graduates would be engaged in ongoing KDF projects, with some expected to join the forces as skilled trades personnel.
MWAK Chairperson Grace Kahariri lauded the graduands’ commitment, noting that the programme plays a critical role in uplifting military families.
“Providing technical training to dependants not only honours the sacrifices of service members but also strengthens the social fabric that supports the Defence Forces,” she said.
Family Bank CEO Nancy Njau reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to social impact through the partnership.
“By formalising this collaboration with MWAK, we are empowering the next generation through education, skills development and mentorship to enable them contribute meaningfully to society,” she said.
Founder of Family Bank, Titus Muya, challenged the graduates to embrace responsibility and build a legacy beyond the programme.
“This milestone is not only about your achievements, but also the legacy you will pass on to future generations,” he said.
The three-month training equipped the graduates with practical skills in plumbing and electrical installation, enhancing their employability, self-reliance and entrepreneurial potential. Beneficiaries have previously transitioned into formal employment, entrepreneurship, and roles within the KDF.
During the event, Director of the Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE), Dr. Norman Kiogora, praised the programme for promoting inclusivity, while media personality Daniel Ndambuki encouraged graduates to build strong personal brands and believe in their abilities.
The ceremony featured technical demonstrations by the graduands, showcasing their proficiency in construction skills, before culminating in the award of certificates and toolkits as they transition to internship placements.
Beyond skills training, the MWAK–Family Group Foundation partnership is set to expand into scholarship programmes, psychosocial support and climate action initiatives, reinforcing a shared commitment to inclusive socio-economic development within the KDF community.
