our story

With scholarships, need-based grants and gear drives, our vision is to empower guides and porters in East Africa while supporting their local economy. With greater access to advanced education, these guides and porters will be able to support their needs and those of their families, creating a ripple effect throughout the region.

Climbing higher

THE BIRTH OF PROJECT RUDISHA

In January 2024, our group, the Nguvu 11 ("The Strong 11"), summited Mount Kilimanjaro. While reaching the top was unforgettable, what impacted us most were the guides and porters who made it possible—carrying food, water, tents, and supplies every step of the way.

As we got to know them, we learned many dreamed of attending safari guide school, but the cost of tuition made it years out of reach. Realizing our ability to assist could change the trajectory of their lives, we launched Project Rudisha. In 2024, thanks to the generosity of friends and family, we funded scholarships for five guides, helping them enroll in school or support their families.

In October, we returned to Tanzania with donated gear, including hiking boots, backpacks, laptops, and children's clothing. The response was overwhelming, and we hope to make the gear drive an annual event.

In 2025, we aim to provide scholarships for at least five more guides and porters, expand our programs, and secure 501(c)(3) nonprofit status to increase our impact.

Behind the journey

  • Porters typically carry approximately 25kg or nearly 60lbs of weight on each daily trek. 15kg is the weight limit for bags carried for clients

  • Most of the gear used by guides, porters and cooks on the mountain has either been donated, left behind, or purchased used

  • The average number of years a porter can work on the mountain due to the physical nature of the work is 8 to 10 years

  • Although the Tanzanian government has established a minimum wage, actual salaries can vary significantly—some workers earn as little as 10,000 TSH (approximately $3.73 USD) per day

  • Many porters receive only one or two meals a day during a climb

Data from primary sources: Mt Kilimanjaro Porters and Guides; Data from secondary sources: www.kiliporters.org

Rudisha means “give back” in Swahili

2024 Accomplishments

In our first year, our goal was to support five guides and porters with scholarships of $800 each. Through the generosity of our friends and family, Project Rudisha was able to meet this goal.

“You have changed my family’s life. My mom cried when I told her what you (sic) done.” - Nickson Kitomary

We also completed a gear drive in August. Through outside donations and the donations of gently used gear, we were able to take seven large bags of supplies to Tanzania to be distributed to the guides and porters.

The year ahead

The opportunities to help are endless and we are hopeful we can continue the work we started last year.

Our second scholarship and need-based grants will be distributed during the upcoming rainy season in April 2025.

We are in the process of submitting our application for 501(c)(3) status and appreciate the guidance we have received from so many to successfully fill out and develop all the necessary documents.

More to come as 2025 takes shape!