Grand Wisdom, Modern Wellness: The Acucu & Aguka Program

Where grannies and grandpas lead communities toward mental wellness, resilience, and purpose through tradition and tech.

From Bright Futures to Big Change

Acucu & Aguka was first piloted three years ago by the Bright Future Self Help Group in Runyenjes, Embu County. Spearheaded by local champions like Rose Muthoni, the initiative engaged elders to provide wellness support, cultural education, farming mentorship, and legal awareness to local families.

"Our youth had almost lost hope. Now, we see self-reliance, less drug use, and civic participation growing. We are healing—together."

Rose Muthoni, Executive Director, Bright Future SHG

Programs Rooted in Culture. Powered by Care.

Intergenerational Wellness & Mentorship

  • Career days for high school and TVET students
  • Mentorship by retired principals & professionals
  • Mental health awareness

Traditional Skills with a Purpose

  • Authentic crocheting circles led by grandmas
  • Sales of handmade items to support education
  • Mindfulness and income combined

Tech-Enabled Inclusion

  • AI tools for bookkeeping for bodaboda riders
  • Digital literacy sessions by youth
  • Remote therapy access via Akili Sawa

Legal & Civic Education

  • Family law, inheritance, land rights training
  • Empowering citizens to engage leaders
  • Bridging tradition and justice

Economic Empowerment

  • Diversified farming mentorship
  • Women and men sharing financial responsibilities
  • Savings groups, microfinance access

Three Years. Four Counties. Countless Lives Changed.

4

Counties covered: Embu, Kirinyaga, Meru, Tharaka-Nithi

92%

Reported improvement in wellness

300+

Youth mentored

65

Women now generating income through crafts

15

Self-help groups integrated with digital tools

“It’s no longer just about surviving. It’s about growing—mentally, spiritually, and economically.”

Peter Muriuki, Digital Health Consultant

Join Our Circles

How You Can Engage

  • Join as a Volunteer Facilitator
  • Donate or Sponsor a Wellness Circle
  • Partner with Acucu & Aguka to replicate in your community
  • Diaspora Support Programs Available

Voices of Acucu & Aguka

An Initiative of Akili Sawa & Local Wisdom Networks

With support from Akili Sawa, Acucu & Aguka integrates digital therapy, data tracking, and diaspora networks to amplify its impact.

Upcoming Events & News

AkiliSawa
Event
Wellness Retreat – July 2025
AkiliSawa
Event
Intergenerational Hike – August 2025
AkiliSawa
Event
Crocheting & Counseling Camp – September 2025
AkiliSawa
Event
Diaspora Week Webinar – November 2025