Kibera, located in the heart of Nairobi, is the largest slum in Africa. An estimated half a million people are crammed into an area of just 2.5 square kilometres. It is hard to imagine that hope could dwell here – yet the joint repatriation program run by the Hungarian Charity Service of the Order of Malta and the Hungary Helps Program between 2021 and 2023 offered exactly that to fifty families: a return from the slum to their own land, their own homes, and a chance at a more dignified and sustainable future.
This repatriation initiative was not simply a one-time donation: those wishing to return home from Kibera were supported through a comprehensive preparation and follow-up process. Participants attended training sessions, developed business plans, and received both financial and professional assistance to carry them out. After resettlement, they were provided with mentoring and counselling for a full year to ensure that restarting life in the countryside would not remain a dream, but would become reality.
A Chance That Changes Lives
Between 2021 and 2023, the Hungary Helps Program supported the repatriation initiative of the Hungarian Charity Service of the Order of Malta (MMSZ), which was based on thoroughly prepared research. A field study conducted by MMSZ in July 2021 highlighted the close connection between the impoverishment of rural areas and the overcrowding of urban slums. According to the study, 75% of Kibera’s residents had moved there from rural areas, typically in search of job opportunities. Most considered their situation temporary – their goal was to return to their homeland if given the chance. Yet, for many, returning remained unattainable.
As a response to this issue, MMSZ launched its initiative (supported by Hungary Helps), which aimed to offer a real alternative to 50 families: through preparation, start-up capital, long-term follow-up, and community support, it gave them a chance for a new beginning. The supported businesses included agricultural shops, second-hand clothing stores, and electrical supply shops – all tailored to local needs. A one-year mentorship program was also introduced to ensure the successful integration into the new environment.
One of the program’s greatest achievements was the reorganisation of rural communities. The returnees formed self-help groups where they meet regularly, offer advice to one another, and even started collective savings initiatives. As a result, they are not left alone, but can rely on genuine community support, even after the completion of the official support period.
On-Site Visit – Personal Stories
In June 2025, a Hungary Helps delegation, led by State Secretary Tristan Azbej, visited the Kenyan project sites – both the Kibera area and Kisumu, the hometown of several program participants. The delegation met with six families who had successfully participated in the repatriation program. The personal encounters were both moving and inspiring: the families who had relocated from the urban slums to the countryside reported economic stability, community inclusion, and an improved quality of life.
The impressions gathered during the visit clearly confirmed that returning is not just a nostalgic dream, but a realistic and forward-looking decision – if supported by the right knowledge and assistance. The program by Hungary Helps and the Hungarian Charity Service of the Order of Malta stands as living proof: change stems from the strength of local communities – all they need is an opportunity.
A video summary of the visit and the meetings will be available soon!
Pictures and a video from the site, provided by MMSZ, can be viewed below.
