AmKeny is a nonprofit organization that bridges passionate individuals from the United States and Kenya to bring health, education, and hope to underserved communities.
We believe that lasting change happens when people come together across borders to serve, learn, and grow. Our name, AmKeny, represents this partnership by combining “America” and “Kenya,” and echoes the Swahili word amkeni, meaning “Arise.”
Through short-term medical missions and sustainable community initiatives, we mobilize volunteers from both countries to provide essential healthcare, education, and empowerment programs. By working hand in hand, our teams create transformative experiences for the communities we serve and for the volunteers who give their time and talents.
OUR VISION
A world where all communities have access to quality healthcare, education, and economic opportunities for a better future.
OUR MISSION
To collaborate with passionate individuals from both the United States and Kenya to support and uplift underserved communities in Kenya. By focusing on primary health, education, and economic improvement, we work together to create sustainable, locally driven solutions that empower communities to achieve long-term, transformative change.
OUR HISTORY
AmKeny’s story began with a group of passionate students and healthcare providers who dared to dream bigger.
In December 2011, seven physician assistant/Associate (PA) students and one registered nurse traveled from the U.S. to Nakuru, Kenya, to host a four-day medical camp alongside Kenyan physicians, clinical officers (PA equivalent in Kenya), medical students, and local volunteers. The team set up makeshift consultation stations, pharmacies, and public health education tents. In just four days, they provided care to over 1,200 patients.
The experience was life-changing. The American and Kenyan teams shared knowledge, treated illnesses such as tuberculosis, malaria, HIV, and parasitic infections, and offered health education, meals, and supplies to families in need. The local community administrator described the mission as “the best Christmas present the community could ask for.”
When the team returned to the U.S., they knew this could not be a one-time effort. Inspired by the success of the first trip, they officially founded AmKeny, creating a structure to plan future missions and continue the partnership.
A second major mission was organized in 2016, expanding to new regions in Elburgon and Machakos, Kenya. This time, the team included medical and dental care, as well as vision and cancer screenings. Over 2,000 patients received treatment, and visits were made to two children’s homes to deliver health care packages and much-needed supplies
Since then, AmKeny has grown into a vibrant community of volunteers, donors, and partners dedicated to improving health and opportunity in Kenya. These missions are not just about service – they are about connection, mutual transformation, and building a future where everyone has a chance to thrive.
During and following the COVID-19 pandemic, AmKeny has extended its reach beyond medical missions by supporting Kenyan nonprofit organizations that deliver free services to underserved communities. Through financial assistance and direct resources, AmKeny ensures that help goes straight to the people who need it most.
Over time, our services have grown to include training and educational support for healthcare providers beyond Kenya. In Zambia, for instance, AmKeny has supplied vital resources such as medical books and iPads to strengthen the skills and knowledge of local Clinical Officers.
In 2024, AmKeny began a partnership with Kitale for Jesus Women’s Ministry, known as the Deborah Ladies, to serve women and families in Kitale and the surrounding areas who face extreme poverty and health challenges. This collaboration provides meals, groceries, clothing, and emotional support while sharing the message of Christ’s redemptive love. Each month, the Deborah Ladies host gatherings that bring together over 100 women, offering them a safe, faith-centered space for community, healing, and spiritual growth. Through this outreach, AmKeny helps embody the love of Christ in action—bringing hope, dignity, and tangible change to the lives of women and their families.
Our Founders
AmKeny is led by dedicated co-founders who bring unique perspectives, professional experience, and deep passion for service.
Lucy W. Kibe, DrPH, PA-C
Dr. Lucy is a mission-driven healthcare leader, clinician, educator, and researcher with 20+ years of experience in clinical care, academic leadership, and public health. Guided by a deep commitment to equity, she views healthcare as a calling – where innovation meets compassion. Through visionary leadership, community-based research, service, and mentorship, Dr. Lucy works to strengthen health systems and expand access to healthcare for marginalized populations in the United States and globally.
Wilson M. Khaemba, PhD
Wilson started his career in academics, where he taught, did research, and mentored students. He later took his analytical skills into the finance industry where he has worked for more than 20 years, rising to senior management positions at Tier 1 banks. In his professional career, Wilson has continued to mentor and empower others to grow and achieve their goals. Wilson has travelled and lived in several countries, which has given him a world view that he has used to impact several non-profits that he has been associated with. Combining that view with the experience of being born and raised in Kenya, gives Wilson a great connection to and understanding of AmKeny’s Vision and Mission
