From Surviving to Serving: Our Founder's Story
“I grew up alone in the heart of the slums, where survival was a daily battle. Safety, food, and dignity were luxuries I couldn't afford. After school, I often asked classmates for a meal or a place to rest. Some said yes. Many said no. Even kindness had limits when survival was a struggle for all. In my teens, casual jobs became my lifeline—loading, digging, carrying—anything to make it through the day. Sometimes, even after hard work, the foreman would vanish with our pay. Hunger was constant, and sickness was routine. The struggle for a meal or a safe place to relieve myself was relentless. At times, drugs seemed like an escape. Many around me gave in. But I chose to keep going. Maybe it was hope or stubbornness, but I believed life could be different. That belief was realized when an international donor provided me with a scholarship. What began in hopelessness became a journey of transformation powered by opportunity and the belief of strangers who saw my potential. As the founder of Root Cause Kwanza, I carry this story daily. I see children facing the same struggles I did, asking the same question: Is there a better life?
My answer is a resounding YES!!
But only if we build it together. Root Cause Kwanza was founded on the belief that every child deserves an education, health, mentorship, and the chance to thrive—not as luxuries but as lifelines. By addressing the root causes, we can create a new generation of leaders.”
Jacob H. Murunga
Founder - Root Cause Kwanza
