Odede launches new SHOFCO centre, offers scholarships to reformed youths in Dandora

Speaking during the launch, Dr Odede said his organisation will scale up its various empowerment programmes that will see a transformed Dandora, which is known for its high crime rate. 

“Dandora has had a bad reputation for a long time due to high crime rate. The problem boils down to only one thing – lack of opportunities for our youth. 

“I am happy that we are opening this resource centre today so that our youth can use it to nurture their talents. They can do acrobats, dances and any other artwork that can be monetized. We also have a library where those in school can use and excel in their studies,” he said. 

At the same time, Dr. Odede also offered scholarships to reformed youths who have gone back to school.

“SHOFCO is going to sponsor the youth who have reformed from crime. Dandora Senior Chief will select them and we will pay their school fees. This will send a strong message to others that when you reform, you get an opportunity to change your life,” he stated. 

Dandora Senior Chief Paul Runno commended SHOFCO for complementing what the government is doing. 

“We have seen the wonderful work you are doing. In many instances, you complement what we do as a government and we are greatful for that. Mine is to assure you that we will support you fully to deliver on your mandate,” the chief said. 

The chief said government will offer security to the newly commissioned centre in the area, adding that it belongs to the community and it should use it well. 

“We will take care of this property because it belongs to the community. We will make sure that the centre is serving our people and anyone with any other ulterior motives will be dealt with according to the law,” he said. 

SHOFCO has been carrying out various community programmes in Dandora among them being enrollment of several youth to TVET institutions, water distribution, bursaries and health outreach services. 

The centre is one of tens of others that Dr Odede has launched in Nyanza, Western, and Coast region counties. 

The resource centres consist of a community hall, a library and an entire floor dedicated to women and youth empowerment programs.