New Perspectives for Watamu: Health and Education Initiatives in Kenya

Watamu, Kenya

This idyllic coastal town on Kenya’s eastern shore is renowned for its pristine beaches and national parks. Yet behind its postcard beauty lies a lesser-seen reality: countless families in the region lack reliable access to healthcare and education. Illnesses that would require nothing more than a routine doctor’s appointment in other parts of the world often remain untreated. Children grow up in households where books are a rare luxury and a dedicated, safe space for education is far from guaranteed.

New Roots e.V.: Where It All Began

The story of New Roots traces back to 2013, sparked by a journey to Kenya and a growing desire to move beyond short-term aid. Adrian, one of the founding members, spent several months volunteering in two orphanages near Nairobi. During this time, he engaged in meaningful conversations with many children and adolescents - touching, often heartbreaking stories that left a lasting impression and strengthened his desire to build a sustainable organization of his own.

It was then that he met Kennedy, a young man who had once lived on the streets and grown up in the Children’s Hope Home. His life story, determination to grow, and his openness were deeply moving and made it clear how much potential can unfold when people are given the right opportunities. What began as a friendship soon became the foundation of a shared vision: to create pathways for change. Today, Kennedy is the project leader in Watamu, firmly believing that every child, given access to education and targeted support, can develop the strength to rise above challenging circumstances. His own experiences continue to inspire and offer guidance, showing local children that they, too, have the opportunity to receive an education, and with it, the power to shape their own future. 

The desire to provide sustainable support led to the first tangible step in 2021: the purchase of a plot of land on site. The original plan was to build an orphanage. However, legal regulations, combined with the growing wish to focus on education, prompted a change in direction: a school. A place where children can learn, grow, and actively shape their future. What began as an idea gradually grew into an organization, one that today creates real opportunities through deep collaboration with the local community.

Development through collaboration

This approach remains at the heart of New Roots’ mission. The organization focuses on education, healthcare, and social inclusion, recognizing that real change can only succeed in close collaboration with the local community. Rather than replacing existing structures, New Roots co-develops initiatives tailored to the region’s specific challenges and aspirations.

Today, New Roots runs a school with over 100 children, promotes women through targeted empowerment programmes, organizes regular environmental and clean-up projects and creates reliable jobs by employing local staff. Sustainability is understood holistically - ecologically, socially and structurally.

Two Projects Creating Real Opportunities

With the construction of a medical center and a library, New Roots e.V. is reaching another important milestone. We are proud to support this meaningful initiative with a dedicated donation, helping create spaces that make education and healthcare accessible to all. Both projects are currently under construction and are expected to be completed in the coming months.

The Medical Center will provide free basic healthcare services. This is particularly important in remote areas where even treatable conditions can pose serious risks due to the lack of infrastructure. The facility will be open to the entire community, regardless of income, gender, or background, and is intended to become a reliable point of care for everyday health needs

The Library will provide a safe space for learning, dialogue, and personal growth. In a region where educational resources are scarce and designated learning spaces rare, it will serve as a hub for knowledge, accessible to children, youth, and adults alike. It is a place where the true power of education comes to life: expanding horizons, fostering self-determination, and creating real prospects for the future.

Innovation Rooted in People

We understand innovation not only as technological progress, but also as a social responsibility. When education and healthcare become accessible, the foundation for sustainable development is laid. 

Supporting New Roots' projects is part of this understanding: innovation also means strengthening structures that empower people and creating spaces where potential can grow into perspective. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the entire New Roots team for their unwavering dedication, and we are honored to contribute to this meaningful mission.

To learn more about New Roots or support their work, visit www.new-roots.de for information on current projects and donation opportunities.