The hallmarks of Mkombozi’s work are flexibility, innovation and governance, and it is these strengths that convinced the STARS Foundation to select this inspirational organisation for an Impact Award.

Flexibility is evident throughout Mkombozi’s operations. This can be seen from their proactive response to the gap in facilities available for street children, to their readiness to shape interventions to suit each child, their assessment of whether their programmes are delivering results – and their ability to change direction if not.  Mkombozi’s new Mentoring and Fostering programme was developed as a result of participatory research, prompting the community to take more responsibility for its children.

Innovation is clearly seen in Mkombozi’s creative use of technology and ICT to achieve its objectives, broaden its impact, and cut costs. The power of the internet has been effectively harnessed to meet advocacy and fundraising goals, as well as networking with and training other organisations across Africa. Mkombozi is also committed to empowering street children with ICT IT skills.

Governance makes the difference between an organisation with vision and an organisation with real impact, and Mkombozi – which focuses strongly on results-based management and accountability to its stakeholders – is a case in point. Effective monitoring systems enable Mkombozi to research societal shifts, gather feedback from stakeholders and collectively revise programming. Careful management of budgets and financial reports also aids stability, building trust with donors and other partners.