About
Delegates to the first KDE-DEKA AGM, held on 11th July 2017
The Origin of DEKA/KDE
The “Diaspora Educators of Kenya” was initially called Kenya Diaspora Educators but changed its name after the registrar of societies requested the same. This was because its government-affiliated entities that have the word Kenya at the beginning of the name. The acronym DEKA/KDE continues to be used to date. The association started as a WhatsApp group that was created on 19/08/2016 by Mathews Ocharo. Within a week the group had over 100 participants all linked to each other. The initial intention (which remains the core aim) was to link up Kenya teachers working in the diaspora and rekindle their rapport since others had not met for a long time. Taking advantage of the new mobile technology of group invites and sharing of content, it became apparent that this virtual Staffroom was the future of bridging the gap of physical space.
On 20th November 2016, the DEKA website was up and running and the dream of the association was now taking shape.
On 29th December 2016, we had our first inaugural meeting at Sarit Centre, and in attendance were – Timothy Mutunga, Simon Angoyia, Jecinta Karingithi, Violet Muhandoh, Gangla Samson Ochieng, Francis Kimweli, Josephine Odhiambo, Stephen Nganga, Stanley Mutiso (SAFCOM Sacco), Daniel Njuguna, John Mwita, and Mathews Ocharo.
The purpose of the meeting was the registration of the association/organization. Violet Muhandoh was given the task to register the association/organization to be assisted by Jencinta Karingithi. The two persons were agreed upon due to their proximity to Nairobi [they both worked in Rwanda and Tanzania respectively). Violet would consult lawyers to ascertain whether to register KDE as an association or organisation. This matter came to light when members deliberated this issue taking cognisance of taxation and other litigations.
The first AGM took place on 11th July 2017 at Maxland Hotel, Westland (the hotel is no longer functional). The agenda was to elect new office bearers and draw the constitution of the association. This chapter marked the formal beginning of DEKA. DEKA was officially registered by the government (certificate of registration number 49699) on 25th July 2017.
ON 18th July 2019, DEKA was officially launched at Summerdale Inn, Nairobi West and a new constitution was promulgated. The Event was captured on both electronic and print media.
The association has grown from being a mere WhatsApp group to venture into investment where a house has been bought, land acquired for members and others have formed short term “Chamas” for raise funds for immediate use. The association has also supported many teachers in various capacities in procuring air tickets, and financial aid when stranded and above all canvassing for job opportunities.
DEKA has great opportunities ahead and hope that one day, it will transform itself into a Sacco and have every Kenyan teacher teaching outside Kenya is brought on board.
Mathews Ocharo
DEKA Chairman (2017 – 2022)