Our mission
To promote the welfare, unity and empowerment of Kenyans in the New England region through mutual support, community engagement, cultural preservation and collaboration.
Who we are
Our story
KENEWA began at a founding meeting at 12 Porter Street, East Tamworth, where twelve members of the local Kenyan community came together with one shared commitment: to establish a welfare association for Kenyans living in the New England region. They unanimously resolved to form the Kenyans in New England Welfare Association and elected an interim committee.
The association received its ABN on 19 July 2026, and on 29 July 2026 NSW Fair Trading registered it as an incorporated association under the Associations Incorporation Act 2009 (INC2601004). At its meeting on 23 August 2026 the committee confirmed its office bearers, agreed the joining fees, approved our social media channels, and started work on grant applications and this website.
Today KENEWA works through seven portfolios, from welfare and women's empowerment to students, sport and culture, each led by a volunteer committee member.
Acknowledgement of Country
We acknowledge the Gomeroi (Kamilaroi) and Anaiwan peoples, the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which our members live and gather across Tamworth and the New England region, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present. We recognise their continuing connection to land, water and culture.
At a glance
- Legal name
- Kenyans in New England Welfare Association Inc
- Also known as
- KENEWA
- Type
- Not-for-profit, non-political incorporated association
- Incorporated
- 29 July 2026, NSW Fair Trading
- Registration no.
- INC2601004
- ABN
- 17 238 522 745
- Area
- New England region, NSW
- Based in
- Tamworth
- Rules
- Constitution and Welfare Fund Policy (PDF)
Our main objective
To stand as a united group for the welfare, representation and empowerment of Kenyans living in or connected with the New England region of New South Wales.
Our vision
A united, inclusive and thriving Kenyan community that supports one another and contributes positively to Australian society.
Our purpose
- Promote unity among Kenyans living in the New England region
- Provide welfare support to members and the wider community
- Preserve Kenyan culture while supporting integration with Australian life
- Assist new arrivals to settle
- Promote networking, education, community development, social support and mental health
- UmojaUnityOne community across every town and background.
- UpendoCareWe look out for one another, especially when it's hard.
- HeshimaRespectFor every member, elder, culture and neighbour.
- UaminifuIntegrityOpen, accountable handling of members' contributions.
Our leadership
The committee
Our committee serves voluntarily until the first Annual General Meeting, when members will elect the committee for a one-year term.
Edwin Ng’etich
Chairperson
Felix Kiprop
Vice Chairperson
Michael Kiplangat
Secretary
Geoffrey Seurei
Organising Secretary
Hillary Bett
Treasurer
Evans Yego
IT and Communications Officer
Ruth Tanui
Student Representative
Sheldon Kipkemboi
Sport Coordinator
Janet Bett
Women's Empowerment Officer
Leonard Serem
Committee member
Lynn Bett
Committee member
Caroline Njuguna
Committee member
Bramwel Cheroben
Committee member
Nicholas Yagan
Committee member
The Secretary keeps the official record of committee members. Anyone can ask to see it, free of charge, at any reasonable time (constitution clause 18.3).
Governance
How KENEWA is run
KENEWA is an incorporated association. These are the main rules from our constitution that protect members and their money.
Records you can see
Any member can see, free of charge: the register of members, the Register of Disclosed Interests, minutes and financial statements of general meetings, the constitution and our policies. If you ask, other members see only your name in the register (clauses 12.7 and 18.1). Welfare members find these in the members area; community members can ask the Secretary.
Portfolios belong to KENEWA
Welfare, women's empowerment, students and youth, sport, culture and events, IT and communications, and partnerships are all part of KENEWA, not separate groups. Their leaders work within the committee's decisions, and their money and property belong to KENEWA. Chama savings belong to the members who saved them (clauses 27.3 to 27.5).
Money is traceable
Every payment of $100 or more is made by bank transfer or another non-cash method, so it leaves a record. Cash is used only for smaller amounts, against a receipt (clause 36.5). Committee members record any conflict of interest in the Register of Disclosed Interests.
If there's a disagreement
Talk to each other first. If that doesn't settle it within 14 days, the committee hears both sides, or an impartial panel if the committee is too close to it. Mediation is the next step. Every step is fair, confidential and culturally respectful, can be held by phone or video, and aims to restore relationships (clause 42).
Contact the SecretaryStand with a family in need
When a member's family faces bereavement, serious illness or sudden hardship, the KENEWA welfare fund is there. Donations from members, friends and local businesses help us respond quickly, the harambee way.
Wish to become a member?
Choose the membership that suits you. Both start with a free members portal account.
Free
Community membership
For Kenyans, their families and friends of our community who want to stay connected.
- News, notices and the members' WhatsApp group
- Invitations to every KENEWA event
- Access to the members portal
$200 to join
Welfare membership
Financial membership with welfare fund cover for you and your registered family.
- Support in bereavement, illness and hardship
- A vote at general meetings and a say in the welfare fund
- Everything in community membership