Ongata - The First Settler

Before there was a foundation, there was a man named Ongata. In the 1920s—over a century ago—he became the first settler to step foot on the uninhabited shores of Takawiri Island, carving a life from the wild brush and the waters of Lake Victoria.

He raised his family here, tilled this soil, and established a community that would grow into the Takawiri we know today. When he passed in 1987, he left behind a legacy deeply rooted in the land he pioneered—a legacy now carried forward by his descendants.

Ongata to the right - Colonial era photograph circa 1940s

Building a Legacy on Ancestral Ground

"Today, Ongatos grandsons Kenjovesto and Michael return to this ancestral ground not just to live, but to build. The Ongata Foundation Farm rises from Plot 779 - Ongata's original homestead - turning heritage into hope for a food-secure future."

Kenjovesto and Michael Ongata

Ancestral resting place
Ongata's grave surrounded by descendants.

Takawiri Island

Join us

You didn’t come this far to stop. We believe lasting change happens through collaboration. Whether you are a partner, donor, or supporter, we invite you to be part of building a sustainable and empowered future for Takawiri Island.