Community Aid Network (CAN) | Empowering Refugees From Within

We empower refugees

Community Aid Network (CAN) is a legally registered, refugee-led nonprofit based in Dagahaley, Dadaab Refugee Camp, Kenya. Born during the COVID-19 pandemic as a small self-help group, CAN has grown into a trusted grassroots organization in the biggest refugeee camp in Africa.

Today, we have a team of 15 people who run programs in education, sports, women’s rights, and more. We also work with partners who share our vision: refugees leading strong and thriving communities.

Our Mission

To empower refugees and host communities through education, peacebuilding, sports, climate action, and gender equality — building hope and resilience for generations to come.

Our Vision

A world where refugees are seen as leaders, changemakers, and partners in development — not just recipients of aid.

Why CAN?

Because lasting change in Dadaab must come from those who live its reality. As a refugee-led, community-rooted organization, CAN is committed to solutions that are sustainable, inclusive, and driven by the people themselves.

Our Programs

Education

We support refugee children and youth through scholarships, mentorship, and community-led school initiatives — keeping education a pathway to opportunity and dignity.

Climate Action

From tree planting drives to clean-up campaigns, we mobilize communities to raise awareness for climate change and build a greener, more sustainable environment.

Sports for Development

Through football and volleyball tournaments, we bring young people together, promote messages of peace, and give youth healthy outlets — creating hope and unity across communities.

Gender-Based Violence Prevention

We raise awareness, create safe spaces, and advocate for women’s rights — working to build a community where everyone is safe, valued, and respected.

Peacebuilding & Youth Empowerment

By training youth leaders, hosting dialogues, and launching community initiatives, we reduce conflict and strengthen social cohesion between refugees and host communities.

Meet the Team

Mary Nyoka

Refugee from South Sudan

Director

Mary is a passionate gender activist and community leader dedicated to advancing women’s rights and refugee empowerment. She has led initiatives to reduce gender-based violence, promote girls’ education, and create safe spaces where women can thrive.

Mohamed Othowa

Refugee from Somalia

Founder & Coordinator

Mohamed is the founder of CAN and a trusted leader who brings both lived experience and vision to the organization. He holds a Master’s in Interpretation and a BSc from the University of Nairobi. Over the years, Mohamed has successfully led multiple program initiatives, earning deep respect as a committed and reliable leader in the community.

Hamdi Mohamed

Born in Dadaab as a refugee

Deputy Executive Director

Hamdi is a refugee advocate and development practitioner with an MSc from the University of Oxford. He is the founder of the Somali Refugee Girls’ Education Initiative and has worked extensively in education and community development, championing opportunities for marginalized youth.

Ahmed Abdi Idow

Refugee from Somalia

Finance & Administration

Ahmed is a teacher by profession and holds a degree in Early Childhood Development. At CAN, he oversees finance and administration, bringing valuable skills in both education and organizational management to strengthen the team’s impact.

Impact at a Glance

1,200+

students supported

500+

youth in sports

10+

climate projects

300+

women empowered

Our Partners & Collaborations

CAN has proudly collaborated with organizations that share our vision of refugee-led change.

Community Aid Network