This revolutionary method centers on talking about yourself and listening to others who are in similar situations without prejudice, without inhibitions and, most importantly, without shame. The objective is to alleviate stress by verbally and physically discharging emotions and feeling connected, feeling listened to and feeling recognized. These women were not used to sharing problems, showing emotion or discharging feelings and had developed psychological problems as a result of accumulating stress.
Wanjiku expanded this method over the years to encompass the different target groups in Maji Mazuri (women, men, youth, children and the sick or disabled) and it is now the foundation of Maji Mazuri’s approach to emotional and social development.
Maji Mazuri is also working on the design of teaching methods based on RC techniques which will be introduced in all its schools over the next few years.
Maji Mazuri tackles physical health issues, too. Many of the children, youth and adults we serve suffer from multiple health issues caused by malnutrition, HIV/AIDS or a lack of access to proper health care. This means that treatable illnesses (such as malaria or diarrhea) deteriorate into major life threatening conditions.
Maji Mazuri has been able to offer health care at its project sites by partnering with local hospitals and organizations that donate medicines, for example antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) for children with HIV/AIDS. Maji Mazuri is now working on establishing two clinics, one at the project site in Kiserian and one in the Mathare Valley, to provide access to first aid, emergency assistance and maternal care for the very poor and isolated inhabitants of the Maasai area in Kiserian and of the slum neighborhoods of Nairobi.
