Walter Okombo

Walter Okombo, a dedicated community developer from Kenya, has spent over a decade tirelessly working to uplift youth, women, and children through various grassroots initiatives. Having founded several community-based development groups in Kenya, he continues to make a significant impact in his roles at Water for the World and Practical Action Kenya.

Walter’s passion for helping the less privileged stems from his challenging childhood, which was marked by poverty and a lack of necessities. Growing up, he faced malnutrition and walked over five miles daily to fetch water, often on the brink of dropping out of school. The generosity of well-wishers and friends enabled him to overcome these hardships, shaping his lifelong commitment to providing clean and potable water to underserved communities. Today, Walter’s dedication to improving lives is unwavering as he works to ensure access to clean water and support for children in need.

Tom Abonyo

Tom Abonyo is a skilled hydrogeologist and a graduate of the Kenya Water Institute, driven by a deep commitment to resolving water scarcity issues in Kenya. His passion for water resource management began during his academic journey and has since translated into tangible contributions to communities in need.

Tom has made a significant impact by bringing potable water to arid and semi-arid regions, including Turkana, Baringo, Garissa, Kwale, and Kilifi counties. His work in some of Kenya’s most water-challenged areas highlights his dedication to making clean water accessible. Currently involved with Water for the World, Tom remains steadfast in his mission to improve the quality of life for millions lacking access to safe drinking water.

Marijah Butcher

Marijah Butcher, a 73-year-old mother, grandmother, and community advocate, has always sought to make a difference in the lives of others. Her journey with Water for the World began when she met Walter Okombo while coaching a Young Entrepreneurs Alliance (Y.E.A.) course. Witnessing Walter’s passion for helping his community, particularly in tackling the challenges faced by teenage mothers and children, Marijah was inspired to take action.

Together, they envisioned a clean and safe Lake Victoria, where water would no longer be a threat but a source of sustenance. Her collaboration with James Pink, another passionate advocate, marked the beginning of a transformative project—drilling boreholes to provide safe drinking water. Marijah’s experience living abroad in Indonesia and the Philippines and working on UN projects has enriched her understanding of global challenges and fueled her commitment to addressing water scarcity.

James Pink

James Pink, a philanthropist and entrepreneur, has dedicated his life to helping children and empowering communities. As a young man, he ran a “Children’s English Club” to support immigrant children in the UK and later built a successful Telecoms & IT company that sponsored the education of 26 children from impoverished backgrounds for 20 years.

After selling his business, James established Van Store Ltd, which now funds Water for the World’s projects. His vision is to alleviate poverty in Kenya by providing clean water, fostering sustainable agriculture, and supporting community development. James believes that even small contributions can make a profound difference and is committed to ensuring every penny raised goes directly to essential water and community projects.

In a world where millions still lack access to clean water, basic sanitation, and sustainable resources, the importance of strategic collaboration cannot be overstated. Water for the World, a UK-based organization dedicated to providing clean water solutions in Kenya, has already laid a strong foundation for transformation. Now, in an unprecedented partnership, the Marine Foundation is stepping in to elevate this mission to a global scale, aligning with its vision of eradicating poverty and ensuring fundamental human rights worldwide.

 The efforts of Water for the World have been groundbreaking, bringing deep borehole drilling and water tower infrastructure to rural Kenyan villages. Their focus on empowering local women and providing sustainable water access has not only improved health conditions but also stimulated economic activity.

The Marine Foundation, known for its large-scale humanitarian projects across the globe, recognizes the potential of these efforts and aims to enhance them. By integrating Water for the World into its expansive network of development initiatives, Marine Foundation seeks to:

Upgrade Infrastructure:

Implement advanced water purification and distribution systems to reach a greater number of communities.

Empower Local Communities:

Develop educational and training programs to equip local populations with the tools and knowledge necessary for long-term sustainability.

Expand the Mission Beyond Kenya:

Utilize the successful Kenya model to establish similar projects across Africa and beyond, ensuring that more nations benefit from this life-changing initiative.

Water is not just a necessity—it is a right. Through this powerful alliance, Water for the World will become a flagship program under the Marine Foundation’s umbrella, allowing it to attract greater funding, expertise, and technological advancements. Together, these two organizations will work toward creating self-sufficient communities where access to clean water is no longer a privilege but a fundamental certainty.

With this union, Kenya’s Water for the World is set to evolve into a pioneering model for water accessibility, providing a beacon of hope for millions struggling with the most basic necessities. This partnership marks the beginning of a global movement—one that ensures no community is left behind in the quest for a dignified and sustainable future.

The synergy between Walter, Tom, Marijah, and James exemplifies how diverse backgrounds can unite to address a common cause. Together, they form the backbone of Water for the World, working to alleviate water scarcity and create sustainable solutions for Kenyan communities.

By leveraging their unique skills—Walter’s community leadership, Tom’s technical expertise, Marijah’s global perspective, and James’s funding initiatives—they are making strides in transforming lives through clean water access. Their stories remind us that anyone, regardless of their background or resources, can be a catalyst for change. In their hands, Water for the World is more than a project—it’s a mission to reshape the future, one borehole at a time.

Join the Movement This is a call to action for all who believe in the power of collective change. Whether through funding, expertise, or advocacy, every effort contributes to a world where no one suffers from the absence of life’s most essential needs. Together, Marine Foundation and Water for the World are rewriting the story of poverty and human survival—one drop at a time.

Makeni, the heart of the Northern Province, pulses with life, culture, and history. Its bustling streets and vibrant communities are a tapestry of Sierra Leone’s rich diversity. Temne voices mingle with Krio conversations, and the city hums with the daily rhythm of tradition and progress. Nestled among the hills, Makeni is a city of promise, a place where hope rises like the sun over Bombali District.

Yet, like many great cities, Makeni carries the weight of challenges. Education, though valued, struggles to reach every child. Health services, despite passionate efforts, remain stretched. But now, like a beacon on the horizon, a vision emerges — one that seeks not just to mend but to elevate, not just to support but to transform. The Marine Foundation arrives, carrying with it a wave of change that will wash over Makeni and the Northern Province, igniting growth and empowering communities.

Bridging Cultures and Building Communities

The Marine Foundation believes that unity is the soul of progress. Makeni, with its diverse cultures and faiths, will become a thriving example of harmonious coexistence. At the heart of this transformation is the “Mamie Haja Bomposseh National Stadium,” a magnificent 70,000-seater marvel. It will not just host sports but serve as a cultural bridge, where young athletes of all backgrounds compete side by side, celebrating their shared dreams under the Sierra Leonean sky.

The stadium will be more than steel and stone. It will echo with the songs of unity and the chants of hope. Festivals will gather communities, and the youth will find purpose within its walls. It will be a place where stories are shared, talents are nurtured, and aspirations take flight.

Empowering Education for Future Generations

Education in Makeni is a journey, but for many, the path remains rocky. The Marine Foundation envisions schools where creativity flourishes, where children learn not just to read but to imagine, to innovate, and to lead. The Youth Empowerment Center, within the stadium complex, will be a sanctuary for minds eager to learn.

Imagine a child from Makeni discovering the world through technology, gaining skills that prepare them for global challenges. Imagine teachers inspired to nurture curious minds, their efforts supported by resources and training. Through partnerships with local schools and universities, the Marine Foundation will breathe new life into education, turning classrooms into havens of opportunity.

A Healthier Tomorrow

Makeni’s spirit remains unbroken despite struggles with diseases like yellow fever and malaria. The Marine Foundation understands that a healthy community is a thriving one. Thus, it will support local healthcare, investing in modern medical facilities and training first responders. The Holy Spirit Hospital, already a pillar of care, will receive support to expand its services, while new community clinics will sprout, offering accessible care to all.

But health is more than hospitals. It’s knowledge, prevention, and rapid response. By partnering with local organizations, the Foundation will equip communities to fight endemic diseases with resilience and knowledge. No mother should fear for her child’s safety, and no elder should be without care. In Makeni, health will be a promise fulfilled.

A Legacy of Hope and Prosperity

Makeni will stand as a symbol of how dreams, when nurtured with care, can bloom into reality. The Marine Foundation’s commitment is not just to the present but to the future, building a legacy that honors the past while paving the way for generations to come.

From the bustling markets to the academic corridors of the University of Makeni, from the fervent prayers at dawn to the cheers in the stadium at dusk, Makeni will flourish. Its people, strengthened and united, will become the architects of their destiny.

Together, they will weave a new story, one where unity, prosperity, and transformation are not just aspirations but a living, breathing reality. The Marine Foundation will not just build structures but plant seeds of progress, and from those seeds, a new Makeni will rise — stronger, brighter, and unbreakable.

Makeni wakes up to the sound of football. In the early dawn, the city’s fields come alive with the rhythmic thud of feet on the dusty ground, the laughter of young boys and girls kicking makeshift balls, and the spirited cheers of neighbors gathering to watch the unfolding dance of the game. Football here is more than just a sport; it’s a heartbeat, a language, a way of life.

The legendary Wusum Stars, Makeni’s pride, have carried the spirit of the city through victories and struggles alike. Established as one of Sierra Leone’s oldest and most respected football clubs, they are not just athletes — they are symbols of resilience and community pride. When the Wusum Stars take to the pitch, Makeni holds its breath, united in hope and fierce loyalty. The roar from the stands when they score echoes across the city, binding hearts and igniting dreams.

A Game of Unity and Purpose

For generations, Makeni’s love for football has bridged divides, bringing together people of different faiths and backgrounds. On match days, the city becomes one family, celebrating their common love for the game. From the Wusum Sports Stadium to the countless makeshift pitches across Bombali District, football is the universal call to come together, to cheer, to believe.

But for too long, the city’s football dreams have been limited by resources, by infrastructure, by the lack of opportunities for the next generation. Boys and girls who dribble barefoot under the blazing sun envision something greater — the chance to represent their city, their country, their continent on a global stage.

The Marine Foundation: Awakening the Spirit of Youth Through Football

And now, the Marine Foundation arrives, with a vision as bold as the game itself. Through the World Football Youth Association (FYA), the Foundation will transform Makeni into a thriving hub of athletic excellence. At the heart of this vision is the World Peace Cup (WPC) brand, celebrating youth, unity, and global harmony through sports. Supported by thousands of retired football legends, the FYA will cultivate not just players but leaders, using the game to shape character, discipline, and community spirit.

Imagine Makeni as the epicenter of youth football development in Africa. The new Mamie Haja Bomposseh National Stadium, a sprawling monument to unity, will host youth leagues, international tournaments, and training camps. Within its walls, legends will share their stories, coaching clinics will nurture talent, and the young will play not just to win but to grow, to learn, to build friendships that cross borders.

A Legacy of Champions

In the streets and schools of Makeni, the Foundation will create programs that engage children from all walks of life. Girls will play alongside boys, challenging outdated norms and showing that football belongs to everyone. Coaches will be trained not just to develop skills but to mentor, teaching young athletes how to overcome obstacles both on and off the pitch.

And when the Wusum Stars step onto the newly transformed field, they will not just be playing for Makeni but for a future where every child with a ball at their feet knows that their dreams are valid, that their talent can take them far beyond the city limits. The stadium will become a place where heroes are made, where youth find not just athletic prowess but purpose and pride.

Global Recognition and Local Pride

Through the FYA, Makeni will become synonymous with youth football excellence, hosting teams from across Africa and beyond. Retired legends, patrons of the WPC, will walk the same fields as aspiring players, sharing wisdom, inspiring greatness. Makeni will no longer just cheer for champions — it will become the birthplace of them.

The Foundation’s vision is grand but grounded, rooted in the spirit of Makeni itself. It recognizes the city’s passion, its tenacity, and its unwavering love for football. Through the FYA, the Marine Foundation will give young athletes not just a chance to play but a chance to succeed, to learn, to thrive.

From Dream to Reality

Football will not just remain a pastime but become a vehicle for education, for health awareness, for community unity. The game will inspire innovation, foster resilience, and forge lifelong friendships. And as Makeni’s youth chase that elusive ball, they will know that the world is watching, cheering for their success, believing in their future.

The Marine Foundation believes in Makeni’s heart. Through the power of football, it will unlock potential, nurture talent, and ensure that the game that has always been Makeni’s soul now becomes its path to a brighter tomorrow.

In the heart of Senegal, where generosity and compassion shine brightest, President Aicha Rebah and her dedicated team of the Marine Foundation have demonstrated what true leadership and service mean. Taking precious time from their demanding schedules, they have embarked on a mission that is far more than just an act of charity—it is an expression of solidarity, love, and commitment to humanity.

Their efforts during the Iftar preparations at the Regional Hospital of Sedhiou and the upcoming gathering in Koussy go beyond providing meals. They symbolize a deeper understanding of the values of community and the importance of standing together in moments of need. The presence of President Aicha Rebah is not just administrative; it is deeply personal. She leads with heart, ensuring that every individual involved—whether a beneficiary, a hospital staff member, or a team volunteer—feels valued and recognized.

Behind this impactful initiative stands a remarkable team whose dedication deserves every acknowledgment. Penda, Tata Zohra, Seckou, Mame and her kitchen team, Youssef, Modou, Diassy, and Ouly have worked tirelessly to bring this mission to life. Their unity and relentless efforts have transformed what could have been a simple meal into an unforgettable experience of joy and togetherness.

We also express our sincere appreciation to the Hospital Director and Mr. Diop, whose support has been instrumental in making this initiative a success.

President Aicha Rebah and her team remind us that success is measured not by personal gain but by the impact we leave on others. Their dedication serves as an inspiration, proving that with passion and a sense of purpose, we can build a world where kindness and generosity prevail.

Another round of applaud for:

• Penda – for her unwavering support and coordination
• Tata Zohra – for her invaluable assistance
• Seckou, for his dedication and efforts
• Mame, the cook, and her team – for preparing delicious meals with love and care
• Youssef for his logistical support
• Modou, for his hard work behind the scenes
• Diassy – for ensuring smooth execution of the plans
• Ouly – for her relentless energy and enthusiasm

In a landscape where major corporations and multi-billion dollar ventures have stumbled, Mr. Mohammed Reza Hashemi stands triumphant, honored with the prestigious Hydrogen For Life award, an accolade paralleled only by the Nobel Prize. Yet, amidst a flurry of lucrative offers, Mr. Hashemi remains steadfast, guided by a business model that demands complete control. This unwavering stance ensures that his groundbreaking technology serves humanity as a whole, in alignment with a higher purpose.

Now, an unparalleled opportunity awaits: for potential sponsors and investors to join Mr. Hashemi’s visionary platform. This is not just an investment; it’s a chance to be part of a transformative movement, to be at the forefront of redefining how pure and green energy is distributed globally. Embrace this chance to be part of a team that is not just making history, but reshaping the future of our planet.

As a remarkable initiative, The Marine Foundation’s vision is to gift every country with this groundbreaking green hydrogen technology embodies a profound commitment to global economic peace and equality. By transcending politics and religion, this generous act aims to uplift populations worldwide, ensuring a sustainable and equitable future for all. It’s a testament to the power of innovation and philanthropy in building a better world

There is a sacred rhythm in the act of giving, an eternal cycle in which blessings flow from those who have to those who need. In that exchange, hearts are softened, communities are built, and dignity is restored.

In the vast landscape of our world, where many walk the path of privilege and others tread the more challenging roads of struggle, a divine bridge unites them: Zakat. A pillar of Islam, a gift from the Most Merciful, Zakat is not simply charity—it is purification, love in action, and a silent promise from one soul to another that no one is forgotten.

The Marine Foundation stands at the meeting point of generosity and responsibility. In embracing Zakat, it does not simply distribute wealth; it carries the giver’s trust and the receiver’s hope. It stands as a guardian, ensuring that the sacred duty of those who give is fulfilled with the utmost integrity, reaching the hands and hearts of those whom destiny has tested.

Imagine the quiet gratitude of an orphan child who receives an education because someone, somewhere, believed in the power of giving. Imagine the silent prayers of a widow whose dignity is restored because the burden of financial despair has been lifted. Picture the humble madrasas and Quranic schools, their doors open to seekers of knowledge, flourishing because of the faith of those who give, knowing that knowledge is light and must be shared.

Zakat is not just the act of giving; it is the essence of humanity at its finest. Islam reminds the world that wealth is not meant to be hoarded but circulated, that no soul should be left behind, and that true prosperity is measured not by what we own, but by what we give away in the name of the Creator.

In honoring Zakat, the Marine Foundation honors Islam’s timeless wisdom. It holds high the banner of peace, respect, and empathy, walking the path of those who believe that every abandoned child, every forgotten elder, and every struggling family is worthy of love, care, and opportunity. In doing so, it extends an invitation—not just to Muslims but to all of humanity—to witness the beauty of faith in action.

To those who give, you are the unseen angels of mercy. You may never meet those whose lives you have changed, whose futures you have brightened, whose tears you have replaced with hope—but know that the heavens bear witness to your kindness. And to those who receive, your struggles are not unseen, nor unvalued; you are the sacred trust of a society that still believes in goodness, and you are worthy of the love that Zakat brings.

Let this be a call, not just to those who give, but to those who dream of a world where the Creator’s mercy is reflected in the hands of humanity. Let the Marine Foundation be the vessel through which this mercy flows, ensuring that every dirham, every dollar, every offering made in faith is transformed into a beacon of hope.

For in giving, we do not diminish—we grow. And in sharing, we do not lose—we gain. And through Zakat, we do not merely help others—we honor the divine order of a world where love and justice must always find their way.