MAONO is an acronym of Kiswahili words; Miradi Anzisha Onyesha Njia Okoa that mean “Initiation of Initiatives that Transform Lives”. The creation of the name was inspired by the latent potential of skills, talents and opportunities among the youths in Dandora informal settlement, and hence the need to motivate and restore hope among these youths who are faced by myriads of daunting barriers to their well-being and future prospects. The mission of MAONO Africa is to enable a global culture that values change making, innovation and social entrepreneurship by reinventing the role of sports and art in addressing social ills affecting children and youths in urban and peri-urban communities

MAONO Africa envisions a wholly empowered and just society for all. In order to achieve its goal and mission MAONO Africa runs a one stop recreational safe space for children, youths and community where they can leisure, share lived experiences, connect, entertain and learn. The programs aim to support and empower youths and children through sustainable socio-economic initiatives and as a result improving their living standards. It strives to create a social transformational model, which inspires a new generation of change makers that will change the narratives for themselves and the community, and hence the program motto: Each one Teach one.

Our Mission

To enable a global culture that values change making, innovation and social entrepreneurship, by reinventing the role of sports and Arts in addressing social ills affecting children and youths in urban and Peri urban communities.

Our Vision

A wholly empowered and just society.

Core Values

The core values of MAONO Africa that govern the operations and community engagements are:

• Responsive – in meeting the needs of the target group;
• Integrity – in managing all processes, resources, programs, and people;
• Community – ensuring all activities are community-owned through their involvement and participation;
• Equity – in resource sharing within the coverage area;
• Social Inclusion – ensuring that all people are included regardless of their backgrounds or status.