Charity Adhiambo

Integration Partner, CEO Najimudu Empowerment Initiative (NEI), Kenya

About

Charity Adhiambo is a transformational leader in inclusive development and the CEO of the Najimudu Empowerment Initiative (NEI), Kenya's fastest-growing disability empowerment organization. Born in Kisumu and raised by a single mother who worked as a domestic helper, Charity's early experiences with poverty and social exclusion shaped her lifelong commitment to creating opportunities for marginalized communities, particularly women and people with disabilities.

Armed with a Master's degree in Development Studies from the University of Nairobi and a certificate in Nonprofit Management from Harvard Business School Online, Charity has transformed NEI from a small community group into a regional powerhouse. Under her leadership, NEI has secured over $2.3 million in funding, established programs in 8 counties, and directly impacted the lives of more than 15,000 people with disabilities across Kenya and Uganda.

As Waide Mobility's Strategic Partnerships Director, Charity brings unparalleled expertise in community engagement and stakeholder management. She has successfully negotiated partnerships with the Kenya Ministry of Health, World Bank, and USAID, securing pilot programs that have introduced Waide's navigation technology to 12 major hospitals and 25 public buildings across Nairobi and Mombasa. Her community-first approach ensures 95% user adoption rates in pilot programs.

Charity's influence extends far beyond Kenya. She serves on the African Disability Alliance board, was named one of "Africa's 50 Most Influential Women" by Forbes Africa in 2023, and regularly advises international development organizations on inclusive programming. Her TED Talk "The Power of Inclusive Innovation" has been viewed over 500,000 times. She believes that true development happens when the most marginalized voices become the loudest advocates for change.

Executive Excellence & Vision