EACDT: Building Futures for Kenyan Youth

At Somak Luxury Travel, we believe in the power of travel to connect people and create positive change. That’s why, starting in 2025, we are proud to support the East Africa Character Development Trust (EACDT), a remarkable charity dedicated to empowering young people in Kenya through sport and life skills development.

Photo: Dennis Mwaura

Nurturing character through sport

Since its inception in 2014, the EACDT has actively nurtured the character of Kenyan youth, using sport as a powerful tool to build resilience, leadership, and employability. The Trust’s mission is to equip young people with the essential life skills they need to overcome challenges and realise their full potential. They are currently working with 17 schools in impoverished communities in Nairobi with teachers and coaches who share the Trust’s mission and values.

To date, the Trust has reached over 17,000 young people through its School Programme, which integrates sport with personal development. This initiative helps students develop confidence, teamwork, and discipline—qualities that serve them well both on and off the field. While education lies at its heart, they recognise that developing the whole person is essential to help the young people they work with face their personal and professional futures with confidence and ambition, regardless of the formal education opportunities they have had.

Empowering communities

Beyond schools, the EACDT has expanded its impact through a Community Programme that has established four community-based cricket clubs over the past three years. These clubs provide safe, supportive environments where young people can engage in sport, build friendships, and develop leadership skills. They also promote networking through sports such as cricket and rounders, athletics and basketball. The sports clubs visit other clubs to compete as well as to build friendships.

Photo: Dennis Mwaura

Championing female empowerment and leadership

EACDT have noticed a particular need to empower girls and young women. One of its most exciting initiatives, the ecently launched Post School Structured Support Program (PSSSP) partners with another NGO, Shining Hope For Communities (SHOFCO) to focus on female empowerment, leadership training, enterprise skills, and work experience.

By fostering these opportunities, the PSSSP helps young women break barriers and become confident leaders in their communities.

Why we support EACDT

We, at Somak Luxury Travel are inspired by the EACDT’s holistic approach to youth development. Their work reflects our commitment to creating meaningful, sustainable impact. We feel honoured to support their efforts to transform lives through sport and education. We invite our clients and partners to support this incredible cause with us. Together, we can build stronger communities and brighter futures in East Africa.

For more information about the East Africa Character Development Trust and how you can get involved, please visit their website.