The I&M Foundation, the philanthropic arm of I&M Group PLC, marked its 5th anniversary on Friday, with a celebratory event at the Strathmore University, highlighting five years of significant contributions to sustainable development in Kenya.
The I&M Foundation was set up in 2020 with a 2 per cent annual endowment from I&M Bank Kenya’s profit before tax and has been at the core of positive changes in Kenyan communities for the last five years.
The Foundation has been instrumental to the hundreds of lives it has touched through the implementation of sustainable, community-led projects that revolve around its four main focus areas – Environment Conservation, Education and Skills Development, Economic Empowerment, and Enabling Giving.
The Foundation shared stories of success and how Education and Skills Development programs have been a motivation to young Kenyans in the fifth-anniversary celebrations.
A few scholars talked about how they can attend top universities like Strathmore University thanks to the help of the Foundation, while some shared the entrepreneurial skills acquired through the collaboration with The King’s Trust International and Asante Africa Foundation that enabled them to start their own business.
These projects not only have taken the young generation off the streets but have also provided them with the necessary tools that they need to be economically independent in future, hence enabling them to acquire skills that make them resilient to new developments in the world of work which aligns with the Foundation’s mission of nurturing long-term resilience.
I&M Foundation Chairman, Eric Kimani, recalled the experience, “For the past five years, we have worked diligently to invest in solutions that not only address immediate needs but also build long-term resilience and sustainability. Our model of working through strategic, on-the-ground partnerships allows us to amplify our impact and ensure that our initiatives are truly community-led.
This anniversary is not only a moment to celebrate the incredible progress we’ve made together with our partners, but also a time to re-commit to continue empowering the communities within which we operate.” said Kimani
Speaking at the same event, the Head of I&M Foundation James Gatere, expressed how their endeavours have hugely changed lives,
“The stories we’ve heard today are a testament to our philosophy that real change is deeply impactful. As we look ahead, we are committed to deepening our work in environmental conservation, empowering our youth with future-ready skills, and fostering economic opportunities across Kenya.” Kimani
Prominent projects that were presented with visual materials included Project Imarisha Ngong Forest, the partnership with the Kenya Forest Service to revitalise and develop the urban forest, and supported activities in education and community development through engagements with the Palmhouse Foundation.
These are among the numerous examples where the Foundation’s commitment to the environmental and social aspects of sustainability is visible. Through the prudent use of the resources and expertise of the I&M Group, the Foundation is really carrying on a legacy that is of shared value.
The Foundation is not looking back as it moves forward into its next Chapter; its focus remains on Kenya’s communities, where it constantly seeks new ways to achieve the desire for meaningful and lasting change.
The I&M Foundation remains committed to its mission of being a catalyst for shared value. By leveraging the Group’s resources and expertise, the Foundation aims to continue its journey of building a legacy of positive impact for generations to come.