We’re not here to be heroes.
We’re here to empower them.
JENGA COMMUNITY IMPACT AFRICA NPC (JCIA) is a South African non-profit organization committed to empowering underserved communities to lead their own development through access to healthcare, education, and economic opportunity.
About Us
JCIA is a dynamic non-profit organization that partners with underserved communities in South Africa and beyond using innovative scalable solutions in healthcare, education, and skills development to foster self-reliance and equity.
Background
Founded in 2015 in Johannesburg and re‑grouped in 2025 with renewed purpose. ‘Jenga’ derives from the Swahili ‘kujenga’ — to build. Registered as a Non‑Profit Company in South Africa.
2015
Founded in Johannesburg
2025
Re-grouped with renewed mission
Our Leadership Team
Thamsanga Sonile
Co‑founder & CEO
(since Feb 2025)
19 years’ experience managing multi‑million‑dollar grants across public health, agriculture, NRM, investment and peace building in southern Africa (incl. extensive USAID support). Qualifications: MBA (Organisational Leadership), PGD Public Management, Advanced Certificate in Health Management, Diploma in Project Management.
Andrew Mbwembwe
Director
Past Projects
Through its founders, JCIA has a combined 60 years of working experience in the international and community development sector in sub–Saharan Africa. This past performance offers the following:
- Proven ability to design and deliver effective capacity-building programs.
- Strong track record in resource mobilization and provision, connecting communities with vital resources, including technology and information.Expertise in fostering inclusive and effective collaboration.
- Deep commitment to social equity and inclusion.
- A community-centred and participatory approaches in development.
- A strong commitment to monitoring, evaluation, and learning.
- Our dedicated staff and volunteers possess a wealth of experience in community development, healthcare management, social justice, economic empowerment, and bringing diverse skills and a shared commitment to our vision.
- Established networks and partnerships. We have cultivated strong relationships with local organizations, government agencies, and other key stakeholders, enhancing our reach and impact within the community.
Our Values
- Collaboration – We value inclusive and diverse partnerships regardless of income, gender, race, class, ethnicity, nationality or religion.
- Accountability – We are custodians of human, financial and environmental resources and aim to manage such with care and integrity.
- Respect – We treat clients, colleagues and partners with respect and dignity.
- Entrepreneurship – We seek sustainable innovation. We promote justice by partnering with entrepreneurial people experiencing poverty to attain business success.
Mission
Empowered communities with the capacity to drive sustainable economic, social, and just development, fostering peace and prosperity.
Why We Exist
South Africa’s history has left deep scars — and while democracy brought new hope, the reality is that millions are still excluded from basic services and economic dignity.
The Problem:
South Africa has the highest HIV prevalence in the world.
Our schools produce graduates unprepared for the workplace.
Young people and women remain trapped in unemployment and poverty.
Our Response:
JCIA isn’t just another non-profit.
We are a community-driven movement using data, partnerships, and local leadership to spark lasting change. We educate, equip, and empower.
Our goal? To make underserved communities the architects of their own future — not dependents on handouts.
What Makes Us Different
We are not:
✖ A charity handing out temporary relief
✖ Focused on aid without outcomes
✖ Controlled by external donors’ agendas
We are:
✔ Driven by local knowledge and leadership
✔ Focused on sustainable systems change
✔ Transparent, accountable, and impact-oriented
Whether you give your time, expertise, or financial resources, you’ll be investing directly in healthier families, brighter futures, and thriving local businesses.
Volunteer Opportunities
Corporate Partnerships
Make a Donation