About
From a Dream to Reality
In the course of my professional duties in June 2005, while serving as a customer service
manager for the esteemed tour company Vintage Africa in Kenya, I encountered a
remarkable couple, Jean and Tom Penny, affectionately known as Mama Safi and Baba
Tusker. The couple, avid travelers on a Kenyan safari, sought my assistance in coordinating
the delivery of a parcel destined for a Masai elder in Amboseli as they prepared to return to
the United States. Without hesitation, I accepted the responsibility, and in the process, our
paths intertwined with the beginning of a meaningful relationship.
The successful and joyous delivery of the parcel to the Masai family marked the inception of a bond built on trust and goodwill. From this point, Mama Safi and Baba Tusker extended their confidence in me, leading to our collaboration as local tour planners through the establishment of my own company, Puma Safaris.
As our association with Mama Safi and Baba Tusker deepened, so did our mutual
confidence. This rapport eventually led to my introduction to the American Friends of Kenya
(AFK) team, and I was honored to be accepted as the AFK network leader representing
Kakamega County in 2010.
Brief History of Kongoni Community Library:
Assuming the role of the network leader opened doors to a stream of resources, including books and medical aid, marking the genesis of a journey that would profoundly impact the community. Initially lacking a dedicated space for storage, I began donating books to schools. Realizing that the impact was not meeting my expectations, I embarked on a quest to establish a library, culminating in the establishment of the Kongoni Community Library at the Youth Empowerment Centre, in a government building, in 2015.
It did not end here. My next dream of operating from my own building evolved. This led to the registration of a non-profit organization, Akhonya Development CBO (A-CBO). I had to identify trusted partners to operate with. My core partners were not only instrumental in the strengthening and growth of A-CBO, but also helped to transform our tour operation business, from Puma Safaris to Africa Untamed Wilderness Adventures Ltd. Some of the proceeds from Africa Untamed Wilderness Adventures goes towards sustaining The Kongoni Network. Therefore, know that when you travel with Africa Untamed Wilderness Adventures, you are contributing to the sustainability of The Kongoni Community Library, Resource, Recreation and Empowerment Centre.
Upon realizing that A-CBO name did not have a formidable impact, we finally changed the name to The Kongoni Network. The Kongoni Network is registered under the Ministry of Social Development – Registration No KAK/LIK/CCSD CBO/003/2016. The Kongoni Network is now our brand name representing the Kongoni Community Library, The Kongoni Network Schools, and The Kongoni Network Baseball Club.
Why a Library?
In response to those questioning why I chose a library over other income-generating activities, my resounding answer is that service is my calling. Therefore, I find satisfaction in giving without expecting returns. I am inspired through interaction with high-profile philanthropists like Mr. Raymond Chambers, the World Health Organization Ambassador for Global Strategy, who are committed to supporting diverse communities.
My personal background also significantly contributes to my passion for libraries. Born in a rural area of Vihiga County, my early education lacked access to a variety of books beyond the curriculum. Following my relocation to Nairobi after my basic education, I found myself fortunate to continue my high school education in a library environment. The library became my sanctuary, contributing significantly to my academic success. This personal journey fuels my desire to transform the Kongoni Community Library into a hub that positively impacts and transforms the entire community. I always tell myself that if it (the library)
helped me, then I believe it is going to help others too.
Meet the team
Elphas Ongongo
Founder & director of Operations
Evans Munanga
Co-founder & Board Secretary
David Moshi
Accounts Director
Moses Pulei
Co-founder & Chairman
