Three women complete Mount Kenya challenge to help girls remain in education 

Women aged 57, 60 and 66 reached Point Lenana after a demanding five day trek and are calling on the public to help them reach their fundraising goal 

London, 18 September 2026 – Three women aged 57, 60 and 66 have completed an extraordinary five-day Mount Kenya challenge to raise funds and awareness for WENDO, a UK-registered charity supporting women and girls in Kenya. 

The team trekked from 6 to 11 August via the Chogoria route, passing Lake Michaelson and Simba before reaching Point Lenana at 4,985 metres – almost 5,000 metres above sea level – and descending towards Old Moses. The group faced steep terrain, freezing overnight temperatures, exhaustion and the effects of altitude, but all three women reached their goal. 

Their guiding principle was the Swahili phrase pole pole, meaning slowly, slowly. Progress depended not only on determination and mutual encouragement, but also on the skill and care of the Kenyan guides and porters, including lead porter Bonny, whose support was essential throughout the challenge. 

The challenge is part of WENDO’s continuing campaign to help girls overcome practical barriers that can interrupt their education. Funds raised will support essentials such as school uniforms, shoes and reusable sanitary products. A donation of approximately £40 can provide one girl with these essential items and help her attend school with greater dignity and confidence. 

“The mountain tested every one of us. There were moments when the altitude, cold and sheer physical effort felt overwhelming, but we kept encouraging one another and moving pole pole. Reaching Point Lenana was deeply emotional, but the climb was never only about us. The real mission is helping girls remain in school and build a stronger future. We have completed the mountain challenge; now we need the public’s help to complete the fundraising challenge.” 
– Beverley White, WENDO Trustee 

The three walkers set an ambitious combined fundraising goal of £10,000 to participate. WENDO is now urging individuals, churches, businesses and community organisations to donate, share the campaign and help turn the achievement on Mount Kenya into practical support for girls. 

Following the trek, the team also met headteachers and visited schools and communities in Kenya, hearing first-hand about the challenges faced by girls and the difference that timely, practical support can make. 

Donate or share the campaign: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/wendouk 

Learn more about WENDO: https://www.wendo.org.uk 

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