A meal, a conversation, a calling: The inspiring journey of Nakuru’s 'Mama Street'
Nancy Ndegwa during a function.
In 2021, Nancy Ndegwa was walking through the streets of Nakuru when she came across a young boy asleep by the roadside. He looked helpless, hungry and alone. Moved by compassion, she bought him food and sat with him to talk.
That brief encounter changed the course of her life.
"I bought him food and sat down to talk with him. That short conversation changed my life. I realised that many children are not on the streets by choice, but because of painful circumstances. That encounter gave birth to my purpose,” she recalls.
Having been raised by a single mother, Nancy — fondly known as Mama Street — understood the struggles of poverty and the strength it takes to keep hope alive. It was this personal experience that fuelled her empathy for street children.
"My love for street children stems from a place of deep compassion. I wanted others to feel loved and supported. That’s why I started Realz Hand of Love, to reach out to those neglected by society,” she says.
When asked about the name of her organisation, she explains that 'Realz' comes from the word 'real' symbolising genuine love and authenticity. Hand of Love, she adds, completes the vision: “Because love must always be expressed in action.”
Founded in 2021, Realz Hand of Love began as a small street-feeding initiative, funded by Nancy’s personal savings and contributions from friends. Over time, it evolved into a structured rescue and rehabilitation centre that has supported hundreds of children in Nakuru.
"We've helped boys return to school, launched family empowerment programmes, and built partnerships with local governments and organisations that share our vision,' she explains proudly.
However, her journey has not been without challenges. Funding remains her biggest hurdle, alongside the difficulties of reintegrating children into families affected by poverty, addiction or abuse.
“Healing takes time. People think these children chose this life, but that’s far from the truth. With the right support, however, they can grow up to be responsible and productive citizens,” she says.
Mama Street is now campaigning for a national framework that recognises street children as children first and foremost, rather than as criminals.
Her efforts have not gone unnoticed. On Mashujaa Day, she will be honoured by the National Heroes Council for her contribution to human rights. Her organisation has transformed the lives of over 1,000 vulnerable children in Nakuru County by providing rescue, rehabilitation and mentoring programmes.
"I never imagined that serving street families would lead to national recognition. This award belongs to every child who dared to dream again, every volunteer who stood with us and every supporter who believed in this cause. Compassion and consistency never go unnoticed,” she says.
Reflecting on her journey, Nancy has a simple yet powerful message for Kenyans this Mashujaa Day:
“Heroes are not defined by titles; they’re defined by their actions. You don’t need wealth to make a difference just a willing heart. Let’s build a nation where no child goes to bed hungry or feeling hopeless," she says.