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About KOLILEC

KOLILEC (Kwale Open Literacy, Innovation and Livelihood Empowerment CBO) is a youth-led community-based organization established to champion literacy, innovation, and sustainable livelihoods in Kwale County. Rooted in Msambweni, the organization works with underserved communities, youth, women, and grassroots movements to co-create local solutions to local problems through art, technology, and entrepreneurship. Therefore driving sustainable growth and ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to thrive. Join us in our journey to create impactful change!

3

Community Projects

7

Workshops Held

12

Success Stories

Our Values

Accountability

At KOLILEC, accountability is a core pillar that guides every action, decision, and partnership. We uphold transparent processes, responsible leadership, and ethical stewardship of resources.

Diversity

Diversity is our guiding principle. We create inclusive spaces where differences are valued, we foster creativity, broaden perspectives, and design community solutions that reflect the richness of Kwale’s diverse communities.

Innovation

We believe that communities thrive when they are empowered to create their own solutions. Through technology, art, entrepreneurship, and problem-based learning, we nurture fresh ideas and transform local challenges into opportunities. 




Our Schematics

Vision: An informed society for sustainable growth.


Mission: To empower the spirit of problem solving through sustainable community innovations.


Motto: An Informed Society for Sustainable Growth.


KOLILEC (2024), formerly The Dream Makers' Platform since (2019), envisions a community that grows stronger through knowledge and shared understanding, where people are equipped to make informed choices that support long-term progress. The guiding motto reinforces this direction, reminding us that informed people are the foundation of meaningful and lasting development.

Our Programs

House of Voices

House of Voices serves as a powerful platform designed to elevate and strengthen Self Help Groups across Kwale County. It provides a structured space where SHGs can present their challenges, share ideas, and actively participate in shaping solutions that impact their communities. Through dialogues, training, and collaborative forums, House of Voices helps groups build confidence, improve leadership, and gain direct access to support systems, innovation tools, and mentorship. It transforms SHGs from isolated community units into connected, informed, and empowered actors who contribute meaningfully to local development and community decision-making.

Artika

Artika combines the power of art with the transformative spirit captured in the Swahili prefix –ika, symbolizing action, creation, and continuous growth. It is one of KOLILEC’s strongest networks within learning institutions, where art becomes a tool for rehabilitation, emotional expression, and personal development. Through Artika, talented learners from low-income communities are given structured opportunities to explore creativity, build confidence, and heal from social and economic pressures. Schools are equipped with training, mentorship, and artistic programs that help students channel their talents into positive outlets—whether in visual arts, music, performance, or storytelling. Artika nurtures resilience, strengthens identity, and provides young people with a safe path toward self-discovery and empowerment.

Watu Wote Soko

Watu Wote Soko is KOLILEC’s community marketplace designed to strengthen local livelihoods. Through this platform, individuals and groups receive the tools, skills, and opportunities they need to start, grow, or sustain their businesses. It connects entrepreneurs—especially from low-income and marginalized backgrounds—to training, visibility, market access, and digital support. By showcasing products, enhancing branding, and linking sellers to buyers, Watu Wote Soko helps transform small community ventures into reliable sources of income and long-term economic resilience.

Team

Abdulhamid Ali

Executive Director

Queen Mohamed

Programs Coordinator

Halima Kingi

Gender Mainstream Coordinator

Naima Ringi

Head of Social Enterprises

Baraka Kilonzo

Information, Communication and Technology Officer

Aisha Omar

Administrative and Finance Lead

Testimonials

Mohamed - Nuru Njema SHG

KOLILEC has transformed our village through education and technology. We now have the skills to create better futures for ourselves! Fantastic initiative!

Ali - Flenzo Culture

Thanks to KOLILEC, my small business is thriving! I learned not just to survive, but to succeed with their help. Truly inspiring! 

Rukia - Heena Artist and Saloonist

KOLILEC provided a platform for us to showcase our art. It united the community and amplified our voices. Thank you for believing in us! #CulturalEmpowerment

The Network

FAQ

KOLILEC, which stands for Kwale Open Literacy, Innovation & Livelihood Empowerment CBO, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth and women through various initiatives, including technology and digital literacy, entrepreneurship, art and creative expression, education, and sustainable agriculture.

There are many ways to get involved with KOLILEC! You can volunteer with us, become a partner, or donate to support our programs and initiatives aimed at building stronger communities.

KOLILEC offers a variety of programs focused on technology, entrepreneurship, art, youth and women empowerment, and agriculture to foster growth and sustainable development within communities.

You can stay updated with our latest news, stories, and articles by visiting our Blog section on the KOLILEC website, where we share inspiring content and success stories.

Monday

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Tuesday

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Wednesday

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Thursday

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Friday

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Saturday

Appointment Basis

Sunday

Closed