The Heroes of the Nation (HTN) orphanage was founded in 2002 by Dr Weston Gitonga and his wife Violet (pictured right) after they recognised the need for an integrated orphanage/school in their district. Nyahururu (population 230,000) is situated right on the equator, in central Kenya, and with an elevation of 7000 ft above sea level, it is very cold.

Since 2007, with the financial and logistical support from African Equity, the HTN project has been able to properly develop it's primary and secondary schools as well as a vocational training centre. HTN currently has 530 children in care (the largest orphanage in Kenya). It also runs a number of initiatives in the surrounding community including medical clinics/adult education and vocational training. It owns and operates a number of businesses- taxi services/mechanical garage/clothing manufacturing/retail shop/dairy herd/poultry farming and flour milling as a means to achieve self sufficiency.

In Africa education is power. It leads to employment/revenue and self determination. Orphaned and displaced children are taken into the orphanages from as young as 3 years old*. From initially providing basic nutrition/clothing/shelter and health care, the children start schooling. They participate in the standard Kenyan curriculum for primary and secondary education. In addition to basic requirements the children receive emotional and social nourishment. Their self esteem is restored and self confidence is developed in a caring environment. HTN further provides skills and vocational training to senior students through its vocational training centre. A significant achievement of 2010 has been the enrolment of 3 of it's first ever academic graduates in the national university. One to study law and two studying degrees in business/commerce.

Transitioning these children back into the community with the skills and maturity to not only achieve self sufficiency, but to also help grow and develop the greater community are the cornerstone ideals of the Heroes of the Nation and African Equity partnership.