Who we are

About the Deborah Amoi Foundation

We believe education is not a privilege but a human right — including for the most disadvantaged. Since 2009, we've backed that belief with scholarships.

Mission

To increase access to secondary education for children in extreme poverty through merit-based scholarships.

Vision

To reduce the number of orphaned and destitute children not going to school because of poverty. We recognize that these children will return to their communities as educated, innovative young people who will improve their quality of life by breaking the cycle of poverty.

Impact

Why education?

One of the biggest barriers to ending poverty in Africa is the lack of education. Unlike countries in the West, public high school education in Kenya is not free — students must pay school fees every year. With most Kenyans surviving on less than $2 a day, many students drop out and education is placed beyond their reach. DAF exists to change that.

170+
Students sponsored
DAF started in 2009 with 10 students. As of 2022, over 170 students have received sponsorship.
20+
High schools
DAF is operating in over 20 high schools across Kenya, not limited to any single region.
50/50
Gender equity
Girls are given an equal opportunity as boys when awarding scholarships. Education is a right for all.
Our team

The people behind DAF

We are fortunate to have such a great team made up of board members and on-the-ground volunteer staff.

USA Board
Anne LwenyaFounder & Executive Director
Beverly LwenyaSecretary
Patricia KetchersideTreasurer & Director
Deborah NystromBoard Member
Kenya Team
Aggrey SaluKenya Board Chair
Sosnes LugadiruProgram Coordinator
Benson MusakiAsst. Program Coordinator
Zepher AgizaKenya Treasurer
Beldinah AdisaKenya Board Member
Wilson NyavukeKenya Board Member
FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Why education?
Many disadvantaged children are unable to go to school in most parts of Africa because of the fee structure that exists. The Deborah Amoi Foundation (DAF) is committed to fighting poverty by creating access to education for children living in poverty.
How long have you been in existence?
DAF started in 2009 with 10 students and as of 2022, over 170 students have received sponsorship.
Is DAF involved in one school?
No, DAF is operating in over 20 high schools in Kenya.
How do you raise funds to educate the students?
Our funding comes mainly from individual donors. To make a contribution please donate here.
Do you have any religious affiliations?
No, the foundation does not represent any political or religious points of view. We welcome religious organizations that wish to sponsor students, but we do not have any direct ties with any particular faith.
What is the criteria for selection?
The scholarship is merit-based. We select impoverished and/or orphaned 8th graders who have been accepted to high school but lack school fees. Boys must score 350 points or above and girls 330 points or more on the KCPE national exam. Students must also maintain a minimum grade of C+ to continue with funding.
What is the application and selection process?
To apply, each student needs:
  • A biographical essay detailing why they need sponsorship
  • Demonstration of financial need
  • A copy of KCPE results
  • Recommendation letters
Documents are reviewed by the DAF Selection Committee, home visits are conducted, and shortlisted students attend an interview.
Is DAF a nonprofit and is my contribution tax-deductible?
Yes, DAF is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and your contribution is tax deductible. EIN: 26-3439860. Donate here.
Can I sponsor a student individually?
Absolutely! Please contact us at info@dafinternational.org and we will do all the work for you. You will receive a progress report, picture, and other updates from the student.
Legal

Privacy Policy

The Deborah Amoi Foundation respects the privacy of all donors, applicants, and website visitors. Any personal information collected through this website is used solely to process donations, communicate scholarship updates, and improve our programs. We do not sell, trade, or share your personal information with third parties.

For questions about our privacy practices, contact us at info@dafinternational.org.