Our Team
As a team, we are dedicated to transforming the lives of older persons in Kenya by advocating for their rights, empowering their voices, and ensuring they lead dignified lives free of want, abuse, neglect, and discrimination.
Board Members
Dr. Nancy Njiraini-Board Chairperson
Leadership Excellence Across Continents
Dr. Nancy Njiraini brings exceptional leadership expertise to her role as Board Chairperson of the Ethel Foundation for the Aged. With over three decades of transformational leadership experience spanning three continents, she has consistently driven organizational growth and strategic advancement across diverse sectors.
Key Leadership Achievements:
- Strategic planning and implementation for corporate and SME organizations
- Advisory roles in strategic marketing and operations optimization
- Proven track record in directing organizations toward sustainable growth
- Cross-continental experience in diverse business environments
Academic and Professional Credentials
Dr. Njiraini’s impressive educational foundation supports her multifaceted professional roles. As a respected academic, researcher, and consultant, she combines theoretical knowledge with practical application to drive meaningful change.
Qualifications & Expertise:
- Doctoral Degree holder
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Science (MSc)
- Chartered Marketer certification
- Current roles: Academic, Researcher, and Strategic Consultant
Strategic Vision for Ethel Foundation
Under Dr. Njiraini’s chairpersonship, the Ethel Foundation is positioned for unprecedented growth and impact. Her passionate advocacy for social justice aligns perfectly with EFA’s mission to transform lives of vulnerable older persons across Kenya.
Strategic Leadership Focus:
- Guiding board strategic direction and decision-making
- Ensuring robust fiscal responsibility and governance
- Expanding foundation reach through humanitarian initiatives
- Strengthening livelihood support programs
- Advancing policy influence for vulnerable older persons
Collaborative Approach to Transformation
Dr. Njiraini champions a collaborative leadership style that leverages collective strengths to maximize impact for vulnerable older persons. Her forward-thinking approach emphasizes partnership-building and stakeholder engagement as key drivers of organizational success.
She works closely with fellow board members and the management team to navigate the foundation’s growth trajectory, ensuring sustainable scale and meaningful impact in addressing the challenges faced by Kenya’s aging population.
Vision for the Future
Dr. Njiraini envisions cultivating an impactful organization that serves as a catalyst for supporting vulnerable older persons throughout Kenya and beyond. Her leadership philosophy centers on creating a foundation that embraces innovation while remaining adaptable to emerging needs.
Future-Focused Goals:
- Building strategic collaborations with like-minded stakeholders
- Leveraging collective strengths for maximum community impact
- Ensuring vulnerable older persons live with dignity and respect
- Fostering innovation to address evolving eldercare challenges
- Maintaining proactive responsiveness to emerging elderly needs
Through her dedicated leadership, Dr. Njiraini is committed to advancing the Ethel Foundation’s mission of holistically addressing the spiritual, physical, social, psychological, and economic needs of older persons, ensuring they receive the care, respect, and support they deserve in their golden years.
Fr. Cornel Oredo Omondi C.Ss.R – Board Secretary
Transforming Lives Through Faith-Driven Service and Social Justice
Fr. Cornel Omondi Oredo C.Ss.R stands as a beacon of hope for Kenya’s most vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly. As a dedicated Roman Catholic priest and visionary community leader, he has devoted his life to bridging the gap between spiritual guidance and tangible social transformation. His pioneering work with the Ethel Foundation for the Aged has revolutionized eldercare in Kenya, providing dignity, healthcare, and social support to thousands of older persons across multiple counties.
Current Leadership Roles
Founder & Director – Ethel Foundation for the Aged
- Established Kenya’s leading organization dedicated to eldercare and advocacy for older persons
- Oversees strategic direction and program implementation across Nakuru, Kisumu, Nairobi, Kisii, and Tharaka Nithi counties
- Champions policy reform and systemic change for elderly rights and welfare
Parish Priest In-Charge – Our Lady of Sorrows, Kinungi
- Provides comprehensive pastoral care and spiritual guidance to the faith community
- Leads church administration and coordinates community outreach initiatives
- Develops and implements volunteer programs for holistic community support
Certified Mediator – Kenya Judicial Services
- Specializes in family dispute resolution and conflict mediation
- Promotes reconciliation and justice through alternative dispute resolution mechanisms
- Bridges traditional and modern approaches to community healing
Academic Excellence & Ongoing Development
Current Studies:
- Ph.D. candidate in Peace, Justice, and Governance – Catholic University of Eastern Africa
Educational Foundation:
- Master’s Degree: Peace, Justice, and Cohesion
- Bachelor’s Degree: Theology – Catholic University of Zimbabwe
- Professional Certification: Mediation and Conflict Resolution
Professional Expertise & Core Competencies
Fr. Cornel brings a unique blend of spiritual leadership and practical expertise to his work:
- Strategic Leadership: Organizational development, program planning, and sustainable community initiatives
- Conflict Resolution: Certified mediation skills with focus on family and community disputes
- Public Advocacy: Policy influence, research coordination, and stakeholder engagement
- Pastoral Care: Spiritual counseling, community building, and faith-based intervention programs
- Resource Mobilization: Grant writing, fundraising strategy, and partnership development
Impact & Recognition
Through his leadership of the Ethel Foundation for the Aged, Fr. Cornel has achieved remarkable outcomes:
- Healthcare Access: Delivered essential medical services to over 5,000 older persons through mobile medical camps and partnerships
- Economic Empowerment: Implemented sustainable livelihood programs including the Living Water Initiative (1,000 beneficiaries), Inua Wazee Weaving Project (100 beneficiaries), and SLOP project (300 beneficiaries)
- Policy Advocacy: Collaborated with government ministries and research institutions to influence eldercare policy reform
- Emergency Response: Provided critical humanitarian assistance during floods, droughts, and other crises affecting vulnerable elderly populations
Vision for Social Transformation
Fr. Cornel’s work is deeply rooted in Catholic Social Teaching and liberation theology, emphasizing the preferential option for the aged and poor. His mission extends beyond immediate service delivery to address systemic inequalities and cultural barriers that marginalize older persons in African communities.
His commitment encompasses:
- Challenging ageism and promoting intergenerational solidarity
- Advocating for increased government investment in eldercare infrastructure
- Building sustainable community-based care networks
- Empowering older persons as active contributors to society rather than passive recipients of aid
SR. DR. CARREN A. OWUOR – V. Secretary
Medical Leadership & Healthcare Excellence
Sr. Dr. Carren brings exceptional medical expertise and compassionate leadership to the Ethel Foundation’s mission of serving older persons with dignity. As a dedicated Medical Officer with an MD from St George’s University, Grenada, she embodies the Foundation’s commitment to holistic healthcare for the elderly.
Key Qualifications:
- Medical Doctor (MD) – St George’s University, Grenada
- MBA Healthcare Management (Finalist) – Strathmore University, Kenya
- Extensive experience in geriatric and general medical practice
- Proven track record in healthcare administration and leadership
Professional Experience & Impact
Dr. Carren’s diverse healthcare background spans across multiple sectors, providing her with unique insights into the challenges facing older persons in Kenya’s healthcare system. Her experience directly aligns with Ethel Foundation’s health, care, and nutrition program focus.
Healthcare Leadership Roles:
- CEO & Medical Director – St Mary’s Mission Hospitals (Nairobi & Nakuru) – 4 years
- General Practitioner – Multiple prestigious institutions including:
- Kenyatta National Hospital
- Rift Valley Referral Hospital
- Naivasha Sub-County Referral Hospital
- Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH)
Commitment to Vulnerable Populations
Her passion for serving the sick and sharing medical knowledge perfectly complements Ethel Foundation’s mission to address the healthcare gaps affecting older persons. Through her work, she understands firsthand the challenges that older adults face in accessing quality, affordable, and age-friendly healthcare services.
Advocacy & Community Leadership
Beyond her clinical responsibilities, Dr. Carren actively participates in advocacy and mentorship programs that align with Ethel Foundation’s policy influencing work. Her involvement demonstrates her commitment to systemic healthcare improvements.
Leadership & Advocacy Roles:
- Catholic Health Association Network – Active member
- Association of Surgeons of Kenya (AOSK) – Contributing member
- Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) – Supporting Technical Working Groups
- Healthcare Mentorship Programs – Dedicated mentor and knowledge-sharing advocate
Mr. Nyagaka ONKOBA – Board Member
Mr. Nyagaka Onkoba brings three decades of distinguished service in diplomacy and public administration to the Ethel Foundation for the Aged. As a seasoned career civil servant and diplomat, he has dedicated his professional life to representing Kenya’s interests globally while building bridges across cultures and nations. His extensive experience in international relations and conflict resolution aligns perfectly with Ethel Foundation’s mission to advocate for older persons’ rights and dignity across diverse communities.
Diplomatic & Government Service Excellence
- 30 years of dedicated service across various State Departments within the Government of the Republic of Kenya
- International Representation: Served as a key diplomatic figure in multiple Kenyan embassies across Southeast Asia and Southern Africa
- Policy Leadership: Provided strategic guidance as Technical Advisor to government Ministers
- Educational Administration: Applied his administrative expertise in the State Department for Education
Global Diplomatic Postings
- Indonesia Mission: Served at Kenya’s Embassy in Jakarta with concurrent accreditation to Singapore and Philippines, managing Kenya’s relationships across Southeast Asia
- Zimbabwe Mission: Represented Kenya at the Embassy in Harare with concurrent accreditation to Mozambique, strengthening ties across Southern Africa
- Headquarters Leadership: Held key directorate positions at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters, shaping Kenya’s foreign policy direction
- Foreign Service Academy: Contributed to training the next generation of Kenyan diplomats
Commitment to Vulnerable Populations
Academic Qualifications:
- Master of Arts (MA) in International Development from University College London (UCL), United Kingdom
Specialized Professional Training:
- Peace Keeping Support Operations
- Diplomacy and International Relations
- Conflict Mapping, Resolution and Management
- Public Administration and Management
Vision for Ethel Foundation
Mr. Onkoba’s international perspective and deep understanding of policy frameworks bring invaluable insight to Ethel Foundation’s advocacy efforts. His experience in conflict resolution and international development particularly enhances the Foundation’s ability to address the complex challenges facing older persons in Kenya, while his diplomatic skills strengthen partnerships with government agencies and international organizations working toward social justice and elder care reform.
Trustees
Wilfred Wanjala
– Trustee
Educational Leader & Community Development Advocate
Wilfred Wanjala brings a wealth of educational expertise and community development experience to his role as Secretary at Ethel Foundation for the Aged. As a dedicated lecturer and director, he combines academic excellence with grassroots community engagement to advance the Foundation’s mission of ensuring older persons live with dignity and respect.
Professional Roles & Responsibilities
Current Positions:
- Lecturer – Nairobi Technical Training Institute
- Director – Pillars of Hope Education Centre, Nairobi
- Team Member – Nuru Afrika Foundation
- Secretary – Ethel Foundation for the Aged
Educational Excellence
As a lecturer at Nairobi Technical Training Institute, Wilfred shapes the next generation of technical professionals, bringing practical knowledge and academic rigor to his teaching. His role at Pillars of Hope Education Centre demonstrates his commitment to expanding educational opportunities within Nairobi’s communities.
Community Impact & Vision
Wilfred’s involvement with multiple organizations reflects his deep-rooted belief in community service and social responsibility. His work spans education, community development, and eldercare – creating a comprehensive approach to social impact.
Passion for Eldercare
“It is my passion to give back to the community because it is our duty to take care of parents because they sacrificed their resources for our sake.”
Wilfred’s motivation for joining Ethel Foundation stems from a profound understanding of intergenerational responsibility. He recognizes that:
- Family Sacrifice – Parents invest their resources in their children’s future
- Community Obligation – We have a collective duty to care for our elders
- Cultural Values – Respecting and supporting older persons aligns with African traditions
- Social Justice – Ensuring dignity for all ages strengthens society
Alignment with Ethel Foundation’s Mission
Wilfred’s multi-sectoral experience in education and community development uniquely positions him to support Ethel Foundation’s holistic approach to eldercare. His understanding of both formal education systems and community-based initiatives helps the Foundation:
- Bridge generational gaps through education and awareness
- Advocate for policy changes that protect older persons
- Develop sustainable programs that address root causes of elder neglect
- Build partnerships across educational and community sectors
Justus Kinyua – Trustee
A Champion for Kenya’s Older Persons
Justus Kinyua brings invaluable experience from his distinguished career in Kenya’s Ministry of Labour, Children and Social Protection, where he witnessed firsthand the gaps in care and support systems for our nation’s older persons. His journey in public service has shaped his deep conviction that Kenya’s aging population deserves comprehensive attention that extends far beyond existing government initiatives like the Older Person Cash Transfer (O.P.C-T) program.
Professional Background & Expertise
Government Service Excellence
- Extensive experience in Kenya’s Ministry of Labour, Children and Social Protection
- Deep understanding of social protection frameworks and policies
- Hands-on knowledge of government programs supporting vulnerable populations
- Insight into systemic challenges facing older persons in Kenya
Key Areas of Focus:
- Social protection policy development and implementation
- Caregiver training and support systems
- Community-based care models for older persons
- Integration of faith-based approaches in social services
Vision for Older Persons’ Care
Justus’s work has revealed critical shortcomings in the current caregiving landscape for senior citizens. Through his professional observations, he has identified that many caregivers lack proper training, resources, and support to provide dignified care for older persons. This experience has fueled his passion for systemic change and his commitment to Ethel Foundation’s mission.
Core Beliefs:
- Every older person deserves dignity, respect, and comprehensive care
- Faith-based organizations have a crucial role in complementing government efforts
- Community collaboration is essential for sustainable eldercare solutions
- Professional caregiving standards must be elevated across Kenya
Call to Compassionate Action
“It’s time we come together and extend the love of our Lord Jesus Christ in serving humanity and assisting the Kenya government in its endeavor to serve its citizens.”
Justus views Ethel Foundation as more than an organization—it’s a movement rooted in Christian values and social justice. He believes that serving older persons is both a moral imperative and a collective responsibility that transcends individual, organizational, and governmental boundaries.
A Personal Reminder of Our Shared Journey
With profound wisdom, Justus reminds us that “we are all on this path”—acknowledging that aging is a universal human experience. His perspective encourages society to view eldercare not as charity, but as an investment in our collective future and a reflection of our values as a compassionate community.
Invitation to Partnership
Justus extends an open invitation to all people, organizations, and governments of goodwill to join Ethel Foundation in this vital mission. He envisions a collaborative approach where:
- Faith communities provide spiritual and emotional support
- Government agencies offer policy frameworks and resources
- Private organizations contribute expertise and funding
- Communities embrace intergenerational care models
- Families receive support to care for their aging members
Staff
Bernadette Musyoka
– Assistant Administrator and Finance
Driving Financial Excellence for Dignified Aging
Bernadette Musyoka serves as the cornerstone of financial stewardship at Ethel Foundation for the Aged, where her expertise in Business Management directly supports our mission to ensure older persons live with dignity and security. Her meticulous approach to financial operations and organizational efficiency has been instrumental in maximizing the impact of every resource dedicated to improving the lives of Kenya’s aging population.
With an unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability, Bernadette ensures that every financial decision aligns with EFA’s vision of creating a society where older persons are free from want, abuse, neglect, and discrimination.
Areas of Expertise
- Financial Strategy & Planning: Developing sustainable financial frameworks that support long-term program sustainability.
- Resource Management: Optimizing allocation of funds across health, social protection, humanitarian response, and advocacy initiatives
- Transparent Financial Practices: Maintaining accountability standards that build trust with donors, partners, and beneficiaries
- Project Financial Oversight: Supporting implementation of key initiatives like Golden Voices Project, Inua Wazee Weaving Project, and medical camps
- Business Operations Management: Streamlining administrative processes to enhance organizational efficiency
Impact at Ethel Foundation
Supporting Our Four-Pillar Approach:
- Ensures financial sustainability of health, care, and nutrition programs reaching over 5,000 older persons
- Manages resources for social protection initiatives empowering economic independence
- Coordinates financial aspects of humanitarian responses in crisis-affected communities
- Supports advocacy efforts that influence policy changes for older persons’ rights
Key Contributions:
- Maintains financial systems that enable EFA’s expansion across Nakuru, Kisumu, Nairobi, Kisii, and Tharaka Nithi counties
- Supports transparent reporting to partners including KCDF, HelpAge, and Living Water
- Facilitates resource allocation for innovative eldercare models and community-based interventions
Felistas Ndunge Ndonye
– Project Officer
Championing Dignity and Empowerment for Kenya’s Older Persons
Felistas Ndunge Ndonye serves as a dedicated Project Officer at the Ethel Foundation for the Aged (EFA) in Nairobi, where she plays a pivotal role in transforming the lives of older persons across Kenya. Her work embodies EFA’s vision of ensuring every older person leads a dignified life free of want, abuse, neglect, and discrimination.
Current Role & Impact
As a Project Officer at EFA, Felistas spearheads the design and implementation of community-based programs that directly address the critical needs of older persons in Kenya. Her work focuses on three core areas that align with EFA’s mission:
Social Protection & Livelihoods
- Develops and manages programs that combat the 37% poverty rate among households with older persons in Kenya
- Implements income-generating initiatives similar to EFA’s successful Inua Wazee Weaving Project and Sustainable Livelihoods for Older People (SLOP)
- Creates pathways for economic independence, addressing the reality that only 4 in 100 Kenyans have access to formal pension schemes
Community Mobilization & Advocacy
- Coordinates diverse stakeholders to build support networks for older persons who face social isolation due to urban migration of younger family members
- Facilitates community forums that give voice to older persons, challenging outdated stereotypes and combating ageism
- Advocates for policy reforms, contributing to EFA’s ongoing efforts to increase the Inua Jamii Cash Transfer and establish comprehensive social protection frameworks
Program Excellence & Accountability
- Manages project budgets with precision, ensuring resources reach the most vulnerable older persons
- Contributes to donor reports and policy briefs that demonstrate impact and inform evidence-based advocacy
- Applies monitoring and evaluation expertise to enhance program quality and maximize community impact
Professional Background
Felistas brings valuable fieldwork experience from her internship at Nairobi City County’s Department of Social Services, where she gained hands-on experience in:
- Community Needs Assessment – Identifying and documenting the specific challenges faced by vulnerable populations
- Direct Service Provision – Supporting counseling sessions and facilitating access to essential social services
- Systems Navigation – Understanding how government social services operate and where gaps exist for older persons
Core Expertise
- Community Mobilization: Understanding that many older persons in Kenya care for grandchildren while struggling with their own needs, Felistas excels at bringing communities together to create sustainable support systems.
- Project Planning & Implementation: With expertise in designing programs that address multiple challenges simultaneously – from healthcare access to economic empowerment – she ensures interventions are holistic and culturally appropriate.
- Monitoring & Evaluation: Felistas applies rigorous assessment methods to track program effectiveness, ensuring that EFA’s initiatives truly improve the quality of life for older persons and their caregivers.
Mission-Driven Impact
Working within EFA’s framework that serves older persons “regardless of their race, belief systems, religion, ethnicity, circumstances or political affiliation,” Felistas embodies the foundation’s commitment to inclusive service delivery. Her work directly contributes to EFA’s impressive reach of over 5,000 older persons across Kisii, Nairobi, and Nakuru counties.
Through her dedication to community-based solutions and stakeholder coordination, Felistas helps bridge the gap between traditional African values of caring for elders and modern social protection systems, ensuring that older persons in Kenya can age with dignity, security, and community support.
Felistas Ndunge Ndonye
– Project Officer
Championing Dignity and Empowerment for Kenya’s Older Persons
Felistas Ndunge Ndonye serves as a dedicated Project Officer at the Ethel Foundation for the Aged (EFA) in Nairobi, where she plays a pivotal role in transforming the lives of older persons across Kenya. Her work embodies EFA’s vision of ensuring every older person leads a dignified life free of want, abuse, neglect, and discrimination.
Current Role & Impact
As a Project Officer at EFA, Felistas spearheads the design and implementation of community-based programs that directly address the critical needs of older persons in Kenya. Her work focuses on three core areas that align with EFA’s mission:
Social Protection & Livelihoods
- Develops and manages programs that combat the 37% poverty rate among households with older persons in Kenya
- Implements income-generating initiatives similar to EFA’s successful Inua Wazee Weaving Project and Sustainable Livelihoods for Older People (SLOP)
- Creates pathways for economic independence, addressing the reality that only 4 in 100 Kenyans have access to formal pension schemes
Community Mobilization & Advocacy
- Coordinates diverse stakeholders to build support networks for older persons who face social isolation due to urban migration of younger family members
- Facilitates community forums that give voice to older persons, challenging outdated stereotypes and combating ageism
- Advocates for policy reforms, contributing to EFA’s ongoing efforts to increase the Inua Jamii Cash Transfer and establish comprehensive social protection frameworks
Program Excellence & Accountability
- Manages project budgets with precision, ensuring resources reach the most vulnerable older persons
- Contributes to donor reports and policy briefs that demonstrate impact and inform evidence-based advocacy
- Applies monitoring and evaluation expertise to enhance program quality and maximize community impact
Professional Background
Felistas brings valuable fieldwork experience from her internship at Nairobi City County’s Department of Social Services, where she gained hands-on experience in:
- Community Needs Assessment – Identifying and documenting the specific challenges faced by vulnerable populations
- Direct Service Provision – Supporting counseling sessions and facilitating access to essential social services
- Systems Navigation – Understanding how government social services operate and where gaps exist for older persons
Core Expertise
- Community Mobilization: Understanding that many older persons in Kenya care for grandchildren while struggling with their own needs, Felistas excels at bringing communities together to create sustainable support systems.
- Project Planning & Implementation: With expertise in designing programs that address multiple challenges simultaneously – from healthcare access to economic empowerment – she ensures interventions are holistic and culturally appropriate.
- Monitoring & Evaluation: Felistas applies rigorous assessment methods to track program effectiveness, ensuring that EFA’s initiatives truly improve the quality of life for older persons and their caregivers.
Mission-Driven Impact
Working within EFA’s framework that serves older persons “regardless of their race, belief systems, religion, ethnicity, circumstances or political affiliation,” Felistas embodies the foundation’s commitment to inclusive service delivery. Her work directly contributes to EFA’s impressive reach of over 5,000 older persons across Kisii, Nairobi, and Nakuru counties.
Through her dedication to community-based solutions and stakeholder coordination, Felistas helps bridge the gap between traditional African values of caring for elders and modern social protection systems, ensuring that older persons in Kenya can age with dignity, security, and community support.