2007 Programme review by Angela

I had an amazing experience.  I am so glad that I had the opportunity to volunteer, have learned much, and hope to have made at least a tiny difference with some students somewhere along the way.  It was so much fun to see the children jump up and down in sheer excitement when they realized that they were going to get to use coloring pencils and run around squealing trying to catch the bubbles that we blew for them out in the school yard.  (Bubbles are a great alternative 'treat' to bring instead of candies.)  I met many wonderful people along the way, saw some amazing scenery, and learned a lot about some of the different tribes in Kenya and the country in general.   

I have used the evaluation questionnaire as a guideline and have elaborated on some aspects that I hope can help AVIF with its future volunteers (and I think I ramble on about some other things).   

Firstly, I was originally assigned to volunteer at the NABUUR project at Menengai Village.  We were informed that we would be: helping to build the barns (that they had recently received funding for), assisting at the local school, bring solar cookers, as well as teaching the recipients of the cookers how to use them.  However, when Nick, Charlie, Autumn, and I arrived in Menengai we quickly realized that our situation wasn't panning out as we had expected.....  

...When we began considering moving onto new placements, we contacted Sharon and she put us in touch with the liason for Glad Toto.  Nick and Charlie decided to go to Mercy Home and Autumn and I joined Andrea and Kerianne at Glad Toto.  Glad Toto was started by the local women's organization as a school for orphans, partial orphans (one deceased parent), and children who could not afford the government school fees.  As I understand the setup, there are fees for Glad Toto but they are minimal, the pupils are not required to buy the books and uniforms if they do not have the resources to obtain them, and I think students may miss paying fees when they can't afford to.  Thus, the school is lacking in resources (the grade 1 class gathers under a large tree), the teachers use pupils workbooks instead of teaching manuals, and the board cannot afford to hire accredited teachers.  The teachers greeted us with open arms and each day we were assigned different classes to go to and different subjects to teach.  The previous week, Andrea and Kerianne asked if they could have some sort of timetable so they could prepare some sort of lesson plan the night before.  When we finally did receive a timetable, it was never really followed.  I think that each morning, the teachers who are there (many were absent often for funerals) meet and decide who will go to which class.  They then decide what subject they will teach for that period, open the book to a page and begin to teach.  However, since they do not have the proper manuals and have not been through teacher training, they usually just read the assignment to the class with minimal explanation....

Most people in Uhanya speak Luo, as that is the most common tribe in the area.  One teacher (George) spoke some English, and the others spoke very little.  Even though the language of instruction in Kenya is meant to be English, the teachers and students all spoke Luo.  The teachers offered to translate for us, but after awhile we realized that the teachers couldn't entirely understand us ... and thus translating becomes a little tricky.  A couple of high school students and a recent high school graduate did come to the school with us some days and volunteered their time to translate for us.  Their English was very good and they were also very helpful in explaining how the school functioned, local Luo customs, and acted as our liason with the teachers for the most part.  We were all very grateful to these three women and they helped us a lot in adjusting to life in the village.  Another lady we met, Elizabeth, taught at the public school (Rapogi) that is just a couple minutes from Glad Toto.  She was shocked that the teachers did not have proper lesson books and kindly offered to loan us some extra students' books from her public school.  I think that the students at the public schools are receiving a good education, but the teachers are just overwhelmed with so many students per class.  (One class that I helped out with at the primary school near Mercy Home had 60 students in one grade!!!)  I would suggest that future volunteers in Uhanya could help out with creative arts/physical education at Glad Toto and perhaps some of other subjects at Rapogi.  Both Elizabeth and Andrew (another teacher at Rapogi) were very kind and I think they could be good contacts if you choose to pursue this.                
 
Learning from my own experience at Glad Toto, I would tell future volunteers to spend a couple days playing games with the children.  Many of the students are very shy and nervous about speaking English to a native English speaker.  We (Andrea, Kerianne, Autumn and I) would stand at the front of the class, ask a question, and nobody would speak up to answer!  Once we changed our strategy (to focus on games and creative arts), we found that the children were more at ease and a little more willing to talk to us in a more relaxed (play) setting.  Games like "duck, duck, goose" and "hot potato" were a hit with the kids in the field.  Even soccer/football (bring an air pump if you bring a deflated ball) and frisbee allowed the pupils to relax and open up.  Once the children are more at ease, then move onto the english, math, and science lessons.  In hindsight, I think this strategy is probably common knowledge for most teachers, but for non-teachers it is useful to know in advance.   

.....As for the orientation, the Gracia was very nice and it was great to meet the other volunteers over a couple days.  However, I think more detailed information should have been provided to warrant a 3 day stay.  For example, many of the volunteers are not trained teachers and it would have been beneficial to be given some teaching aids (lesson samples and examples) for primary and secondary classes.  Also, all Kenyan government schools are supposed to follow a national curriculum.  If the volunteers could have a copy of this  prior to arriving in Kenya, they could bring learning materials/lessons/books that supplement the classes that they will be teaching.  Many of us found that the high school students were learning material (ie., organic chemistry) that we were not introduced to until college courses.
 
The volunteer handbook was useful.  A couple items that I brought that were invaluable were a pocket knife [Ed-possibly won't be allowed to fly with such an item ??], plenty of mosquito repellent, a rain jacket/poncho, and plastic flipflops (for showering in less than appealing bathrooms and trekking through some seriously muddy roads).  Also, Lonely Planet has a very good list of what medications you should take with you.  ...Some volunteers came without basics (such as Panadol or fever/pain relivever) and I think it is essential that volunteers come prepared especially when living in rural areas!   There were also some volunteers who travelled without any sort of travel/medical insurance - luckily no one was seriously ill or injured, but it seems quite risky to be travelling anywhere in Africa without insurance.   (I know that AVIF did strongly urge that volunteers purchase insurance and that volunteers must decide for themselves in the end.)
 
....As many of the volunteers were students, they should be advised to bring their student ID with them if they would like to receive a student rate (usually half price) at any of the National Parks, Reserves, or Museums.  Officially, the student discount applies only to school groups that have booked in advance but once we explained that we were travelling as volunteers and trying to see some of the country we were able to get the student price all but once.  (As they say, everything is negotiable in Kenya!)
 
....I would also suggest that when possible, volunteers bring cash donations and then buy the supplies they need once they arrive.  You can purchase almost anything in most of the cities (unless you are keen on specific teaching aids) and waiting to buy things in Kenya will be: easier for your travels, help the local economy, and most importantly you can better assess what that school/orphanage needs most.

...I think that in general, volunteers can become quite frustrated at points and also dealt differently with the cultural differences of being in a country that is quite different from [home].  I know that I was frustrated at times too, but I really made a conscious effort to keep positive and focus on what we could do instead of only on what was wrong.  .....it is very easy to get used to everything happening on time and as it was planned.  In developing countries though, I would say that sometimes things do not happen according to the original plan and rarely do they happen on time.  I think that most of the older volunteers were more at ease with this adjustment than some of the younger ones.  When travelling to places with different cultural norms, I think you have to learn to adapt a little and realize that YOU are a visitor and YOU have chosen to be someplace that is different. 
...volunteers really need to expect to be out of their comfort zone and when in these situations they must take a deep breath and remind themselves that if they wanted everything to be like home, they should have stayed home!
 
..I hope this mini novel will help out for the groups that go next year!
 
Angela
 

Update from Maseno

Hello again!
I cant believe how quickly the days are passing.....I am amazed though at the constant rain, the mud is driving me crazy - it seems it has gotten into absoulutly everything and has stained all clothes..... and I have been quite cold - hmmm not what I expected for the equator - however we are so high above sea level!
 
Teaching is wonderful - we brought in coloured paper and pencils - getting the kids to make mobile's to decorate the classrooms, nothing will stick on the mud walls so this is another attempt - the kids are so happy with the colours wow - you should see their expressions - priceless! we have brought some paints as well but will get that out next time - and do some murals for the walls - hand prints, names etc - as there is an average of about 70 students per class this should be interesting!
The sports equipment is being well used - hard to teach though as the lower primary and upper primary have slightly different timetables and as 1/2 school is on break - there are kids all over the place - let alone trying to keep teaching the huge classes we have - there are so many wanting to play - I think the other teachers find it amusing seeing us so confused! Ha. I tell you though when there are several groups - playing soccer, volleyball, tunnel ball, etc - it is wonderful - we have donated volleyball net and ball, soccer ball, tennis balls and a few bats - The whole school is so thankful and happy! looks more like a carnival than a P.E. lesson!!! And boy these kenyan children are so amazing at sport - wow!!!!!

As I have mentioned before there are over 90 orphans at this school out of around 600. We have donated the money for a chicken coup to be made and stocked with laying hens. We are hoping the sale of the eggs will provide the money for the orphans lunch scheme, also eventually some ongoing school supplies. Also this will teach the children how to manage chickens for their own homes etc. Income generating schemes are vital as they are long lasting and really benefit the community as a whole. here are several things I would like to see the Mercy home start - talking with edward about a sewing machine and a chicken coup as well as a few other idea's.... Pity it all costs.........
 
The girls at the home are wonderful, holidays are over - hmmm who would know - they go to school, at an extra charge, of course, over their holidays? Leaving home at 5am ish and not arriving til 6pm - then homework and only sunday off - Overkill I think, they are so tired, and Im sure they can not contain so much when exhausted. Getting to really know the girls more and more and feel it will be extremely hard to leave, especially some of them who have been caught up in my heartstrings for awhile now.........
 
Went to Kakamega forest last weekend, a beautiful untouched virgin rainforest. Saw 3 species of monkeys, many butterflys, birds and amazing medicinal plants and trees....the guide took Zoe and I into a bat cave - ohhh sometimes I just dont know why I do these things.....eeehhhhh bats millions, well not quite - but seemed to be flying far too close - couldn't get out of there quick enough!!!!!!!!! The views were awesome, had a great time ...  smiles always Marie

Recycling drinks cans into metal / air fuel cells

Founder Trevor Jackson took his fuel cells to Paris in June 2007. An african delegate suggested they were "a solution to her country's needs since they have lots of waste aluminium cans but no fuel for remote electricity production".



There are NO POLLUTING EMISSIONS and all by-products are recycled.
For further technical information and order enquiries contact Metalectrique


Technorati Tags: energy efficiency recycling africa poverty aluminium fuel

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Mobiles for all, the way to kick start entrepeneurship

UN Millennium Villages programme. Free mobile network infrastructure and solar chargers.
The initiative, a collaboration between the Earth Institute at New York's Columbia University and the UN, started in 2004. The first Millennium Village was started in Sauri, Kenya,
One year on
A year since the project began, Sauri is undergoing a transformation.

Simultaneous projects in agriculture, water, health, energy, transportation and education are changing the face of the village .... read more




Technorati Tags: AVIF, poverty, phone, mobile, africa

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Maasai Products from Kenya

We're just helping top market Michael and Ann Njogu's website, selling Maasai and other crafts all handmade by theur family and friends.
Take a look.




Technorati Tags: maasai, crafts, kenya

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The low cost, rural AfriGadget "mobile" phone

Many thanks to Afrigadget for promoting this great income-generation idea, suitable for the rural Kenyan areas too, where people can't afford their own mobile phones.




Technorati Tags: mobile phone, africa, kenya

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Asante sana

Many many thanks to UIA Charitable Foundation for their kind donation of GBP 1000 which will allow us to complete the roof on the new extension at the Jehovah Nissi Mercy Childrens Centre in Maseno, Kenya. I just spoke with Edward the director there who wishes to thank everyone involved for all their support.
The girls all miss you so so much.




Technorati Tags: foundation, kenya, AVIF, donation, volunteer, africa

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Feedback from James & Soraya

Uhunda village, 7km from Usenge, Bondo District, Nyanza Province,
Western Kenya. Summer 2007

Our experience:

The community of Uhunda is about a 30 minute walk from the main road
from Kisumu that carries on to Osieko. The community has its own beach
on Lake Victoria, called Honge, which is about a 5 minute walk from the
school itself, which provides stunning views over the lake. This beach
is the lifeblood for the community, which relies on the fishing trade,
mainly catching tilapia, Nile perch and omena (or daga). There are
wooden boats lined up on the beach and it is well worth asking one of
the fishermen to take you out for a trip; it is interesting to see the
various fishing methods and the views are fantastic.

Nyanza province is dominated by the tribe Luo. They are one of the
largest tribal grouping in Kenya and along with Kakuyu hold many of the
most influential positions in the state. They speak their own language,
as so many of the Kenyan tribes do, which is very different to Swahili.
Sharon can provide a helpful list of common words and the people are
appreciative and often amused by any attempt to converse in their
mother-tongue. Having said this, you will not need to speak it to teach
in the school. Even the small children in the orphan centre and nursery
learn some English and latterly all lessons are given in it. Even exams
are set in English, so it is helpful for the children to speak to you in
English. This will at least help them become more confident speaking it
and will provide a good reason for them to do so.

The people are extremely generous and they will bring you presents from
their shambas (their small allotments) or whatever they can afford:
fish, fruits, milk. It is very difficult to turn down these gifts, even
though you may feel bad accepting them. But they will be very pleased to
give them. We were made so welcome that we really felt that we had an
African home and even an African mama in Priscah.

As with any small, rural community, everyone knows everyone. They have
large extended families and so people are always round each other's
houses. The Luos are polygamists and it is still common for men to have
more than one wife. Traditionally the man lives in a house in the middle
and provides separate houses around him for each of his wives. As you
can imagine, this can lead to huge families and you will find brothers
(strictly half-brothers) who could be father and son.

We are 'muzungus', or white Europeans. The kids shout it and wave as you
walk past. Some of them had never seen white people before and were
either terrified or fascinated by us. This was made amusingly clear when
we went to visit a community project up the road in a very rural area.
Soraya saw a particularly cute little boy and went over to him with
hands outstretched, cooing. His smile was immediately replaced by
blood-curdling dread; he ran away as quickly as his little legs could
carry him. Soraya was keen to cheer him up and tried to pick him up
again and the closer she got, the more terrified he became.

In some ways it was quite fun being a muzungu because when we walked
around the village we were greeted by everybody and generally treated as
washed-up z-list celebrities might be at home. But with that comes the
assumption that we are made of money and could, if only we were that way
inclined, solve all of Africa's problems with a swish of our Pound
Stirling. What we have learnt though, and what we were keen to stress
during a 2hr school committee meeting, is that the most pressing
problems of poverty and HIV/Aids cannot be solved instantly by anyone,
or any amount of money. This was a problem of communication and when we
arrived they had been waiting for 4 muzungus (we were two) for a year
and a half. There expectations were out of proportion sadly, but
hopefully in the future they will know what to expect having had us
there for a month. The things that we were most impressed with have been
the community projects which are run, organised, and established by
locals, but which are sometimes funded by charities. There are lots that
try to educate and raise awareness of various issues, and they seem to
me to be making more integral progress than carpet-bomb charity involvement.

I had had no previous teaching experience and was not a little nervous
about the prospect, especially when I met some of the other volunteers
who were professional teachers at home. But the experience was really
satisfying. The fact that muzungus are teaching them is an intriguing
novelty factor for the pupils and they are keen and receptive. They were
extremely shy to begin with and it took a while for them to get them to
put up their hands and say anything they wanted, but it is worth the
effort because it makes the lessons more interesting and stimulating for
the children and for you. You will probably want to buy all the
materials you will need to teach. We ended up travelling to Kisumu every
weekend to pick up various things. The chairman of the beach, Henry, a
very respected man, has a car and is always willing to help with
transport from Usenge if you have heavy things.

Even though we were not able to teach the orphan centre kids the
irregular past tense in English, we could help with their learning by
rote (A is for Apple) and with games and drawing, something which they
seem not to have done before. They were adorable and we both had our
favourites, who we wished we could pack in our bags and take home. I
think they also took something from the relationship and were pleased to
have us with them.

We both thoroughly enjoyed our time in Uhunda, made a lot of real
friends, and learnt a lot about Kenya and Africa. I almost wish I could
vote in the upcoming presidential election because we learnt a great
deal about the politics of the country and came to hold strong views of
our own.

I would recommend this experience to anyone. We will definitely go back.
And we feel quite proud to be the first of many people who will go back
and forth in this relationship between Nyayo and AVIF.

Update on safari from Marie

Hello all!

I have been busy on Safari - wow an amazing experience - yep the stuff you see on TV, the theme song to out of Africa playing in my head, as I looked over the vast African landscape, the golden long grass, the acacia trees, the Huge blue skies.......and then the animals - we saw 4 out of the big 5, but will see the Rhino in Nakuru later. We camped under the yellow barked acacia trees - so gorgeous with the sun shining through them. The baboons and monkeys' homes. Our camp was nestled at the base of a hill, yep where the Lions live! You could hear the purring at night in the tents......
Our tents were separated by little tracks, we had our own toilet and shower, talk about luxury - real beds firm mattresses, soft pillows and a cloud like doona - ah the little things! Ha not to mention the 3 course home made meals (Nigels a great cook as well as the safari guy!) What an awesome 3 days.....the only thing I could complain about is I wanted to stay longer!



We all met up on the Monday evening, stopping to watch the sunset with a beer before going into camp, seeing some hyena, mongoose, I think impala..... easy evening unpacking and eating, a camp fire outside every tent and two Maasai on duty at night to keep the animals out!

An 11 hour day and up at 6am for breakfast - then off to the Mara - the open vast spaces - home to the African animals, on migration.....Wilderbeast, zebra, giraffe, buffalo,lion, impala, gazelle, crocodiles, hippo's, mongoose, warthog, ostrich, vultures, secretary bird.......and many more I cannot think of right now! Amazing! lots of stories but too much to write - we spent the day sitting on the roof of the jeep having a ball!

The following day we went to the Maasai village and looked through one of the workers homes, the women in the tribe sitting out with all their wares...hmmmmm too expensive - but yep - alll know Im a softy! then we went to see the new homes going up - thanks to the women - they seem to do all here....... lazy afternoon, then an evening walk around the hills around the camp......wildlife right there......

I was to go check out a few spots on my way back to the Mercy home, however Nigel and Marilize let me stay one night - I was so relaxed and welcomed they said it was ok to stay on - hmmm well I did - awesome company the two of them, lots of wine and laughs - On the Sunday the bus then I had to take all the way home - big mistake!!!!! I think my "sitting apparatus"as the girls call it! spent most of the 8 hour journey in mid air - the road so horrific! Yep I was placed in the back row the only muzungu - no food, forgot brekky - only one short stop - you should have seen how packed it was - nearly impossible to get out to go to the loo.......the scenery - when I saw - was awesome - the maize plantations, and the incredible tea plantations - however there was a young lady near the window who kept closing the curtain and the window - when the bus is overcrowded, muggy and babies being sick, amonst other things...I kept asking her - open the window I need air - thought I would suffocate.......just before Kisumu we had a flat tyre - hmmmm just one of those days......to top it off when we arrived in Luanda (closest stop to Mercy) - it not only poured heavy tropical rain, but hailed! Everything soaked! Luckily Zoe met up with me in Kisumu and I brought a stereo for the girls, from Nigels home, so she carried the stereo back on her head, the box disintergrating on the way..... so happy to reach home - even though no warm water, or other luxuries.......so the old back has been put to the test! having today off...but all is great - the girls so enchanted with the stereo - their little tape deck got taken in a robbery before we arrived - so a cd player is so amazing - the smiling faces and the african rhythmn as they danced the evening away made the journey worth while I think.............lol

I will leave it there, hope my photos come out !

...

Zoe's still in Kenya

Visit Kenya with Zoe in her fantastic web-log.




Technorati Tags: volunteer, africa, kenya, poverty

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Forward this mail on to help AVIF raise funds. Please forward this mail on if you think that you know people who would like to receive it. Responsible emailing Remember if someone receives this mail from you, then tells you they don't want to receive a similar one again you must not send them future messages. If you are considering forwarding it on you must do so only to people who you consider would like to receive it and to whom the content is relevant. If you have a formally-managed list you must only send it to those who have expressed that they wish to receive such mail from you. Purchases made through www.buy.at/AVIF All purchases are made according to the information and terms provided by the company making the sale to you. Further details on using the buy.at shop are provided on the site.

Full time Project Manager position in Nakuru

For full details please see http://www.bidnetwork.org/artefact-75005-en.html

This is a salaried position for minimum contract of one year.

3rd week in Mercy Home!

[update from Marie]

Hello everybody, sorry there has been a slight delay in my news, I did
write on sat, however when I went to add some photos, the system
crashed.....Its a gorgeous warm sunny day here, slight cool breeze, and I
am sure it will not rain on our return today Well we'll see......

I have just added some pictures for you......They are of my school, kids
with some hand puppets, my class group 50+, The deputy principle and the
giant advocados given to us this morning.The kitchen and view from school,
Me in my room, with Phanice, a pic of Luanda(town closest to us 40 min
walk. Another of the girls at Mercy home carrying the freshly cut gum tree
for the roof frame for extentions.

We arrived last mon nice and early, 8am as we were told, warm and sweaty
from our brisk morning walk up and around and over and up.... to find
masses of gorgeous kids looking and giggling....It wasnt until 10.30am
when the next teachers showed up, this is Africa i guess.... We - Zoe and
I thought it would be good to sit in in the first lesson, to see what
happens.....went really well until the principal, who was taking my class
7 went out to get some exercise books...and never returned! Ha, I guess
this was my opportunity to start!!!
The staff that we have met are really wonderful, very interested in our
country and what happens.....they are also so welcoming and Joseph, the
deputy has brought us many treats like a huge bag of avocados, then today
some Giant ones! Banana's, sugar cane - makes special effort for our lunch
and morning tea......wow!
I was amazed to find out there are 93 orphans at our school, that live in
the family home and take care of the other siblings and collect sticks to
sell at the market, grow a little veg for dinner.....sometimes they cannot
attend school, as they try to get a litte work at the market or sell
whatever they have, I was so sad to hear their stories and wondering how
can I make a difference to these innocent kids? wow....we have never had
to endure the hardships that these kids live and face every day. We are
certainly blessed. I am glad the school has started a lunch programme, so
that these little ones living alone at least will get a meal a day. We
have been invited to a wedding ceremony on Saturday, one of the staff - we
havent met yet -unfortunately, this is the last weekend for us volunteers,
so we have a day planned with the girls from Mercy Home.
Time has flown by, with all the new experiences to take in. I cannot
believe that nearly a month has passed. I have decided that after my
safari to the Maasai Mara on the 27th Aug, I shall come back here for
another month, before going into Tanzania to meet up with my sponsor kids.
Just cannot leave these girls yet, they are so sad that most are leaving.
So it will be Zoe and I for another month.
The African sky is so big and bright, the star consolation so different to
down under....the thunderstorms have been loud and heavy, our room has
flooded a few times...but you get that!
Unfortunately not much more movement on the extensions - the brick work is
all completed, waiting on some $ for tin roofing. Maybe something this
week? All ATM machines were not working in Kisumu on the weekend, so we're
hoping they will be back in order soon. One of the Americans had a
birthday so we all met up - was great to get together, exchange stories
and laughs.....we will be all going separate ways this weekend coming.
Awesome to be together.
The teachers are waiting for us to be free one weekend, to take us to see
the hippos....maybe after I return!
The days are very long, very warm, sometimes very wet....the skies are so
big and blue........life is great. I feel so familiar - would love to have
more of the language sorted, but working on it! And have the long drops
sorted! YAY!

...enjoy the photos ...

Bloggin from Spain

My Blogger web page is totally in Spanish so apologies if this comes out in Spanish but just wanted to post up Zoe's blogs with photos and entries of their experiences.

Zoe - Free Travelogue, Travel Blog and Journal
http://www.getjealous.com/zobe...

Update from Maseno Aug 10 2007

Good afternoon - Im sitting here at the cyber cafe....reggae on the radio....rain falling on the tin roof, after a hot humid day....this is Africa!

The last week since I last wrote has been filled with lots of building! Yep, carrying bricks, shovelling sand, making cement and actually setting the bricks, what a wonderful thing to be able to leave this wonderful place!

Today we, Zoe and I, went with Susan to our school that we are to be teaching at - wow! I am so impressed. They are rearing rabbits (for the childrens lunches-protein!) Also the students have their own plot of land, where they are taught to grow veggies - and will sell them when ready - to the community and the teachers! great initiative. Also they have a project with growing trees to sell at the markets!

We had a great look around, and were given food....we had just eaten! but so rude not to partake in chai and margarine sandwiches! The chai is Kenyan tea boiled milk and water and loads of sugar! The students were giggling and following, they have never had any volunteer teachers! There are 88 students in one class - year 6 - and not any classes hold under 50 students - yeah a little daunting!!! But I still cannot wait! Where this great school is is on top of a hill with the most wonderful views of the surrounding country side......wow.

It is about 2km of winding track - over the railway tracks (train only comes twice a week) down the hill, across the stream, and up again.........ah I dont know what I will do if it rains the heavy tropical rain.....we wont make it! More about those adventures as they happen!

The rain is heavier now, and thunder is all around...ha looks like we will stay here until it quietens!

Will try to get into Kisumu to develop some pictures - I feel like its a time warp here - from the 60's? The children and adults alike are amazed at our cameras - that they can see themselves straight away! Everyone would like a copy.....but how will I find most of them, just in passing on the tracks? Life in beautiful Kenya!

I hope these pictures get to you ....

[Many thanks to Marie for taking the time to send these updates & amazing photos]

Re: eBay Listing Confirmed: Hand crafted hanging batiks (110157543157)

Listing confirmed. Buy an item now Dear All, More items have been successfully listed on eBay. Please take a look. Hand crafted hanging batiks Starting price: £10.00 View item |    Details for item number: 110157543157 Listing URL: http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=110157543157&ssPageName=ADME:L:LCA:UK:31 Start date: Wednesday, 08 Aug, 2007 17:28:58 BST End date: Monday, 13 Aug, 2007 17:28:58 BST

Asante

    Hi Alison,
    thought you would like to hear how we are going......this one I sent the other day!
    take care - we all love it here!
    thank you
    Marie

        Jambo
        I have just walked through the country tracks,compounds coming off the road, beautiful gardens, chooks scratching in the dirt, mothers washing in the buckets, babies laughing or crying when they see us! about an hours ramble along the red soil, still slippery from the deluge of tropical rain! So many crops, very fertile country! now in Maseno, to write to you! You should see this internet cafe - I cant wait to show some pictures, because life is so different, but awesome! So many amazing new sights and experiences...this morning we helped gather and peel the corn/maize. I managed to hold some on my head, but not when I moved - ha
         
        I feel so at home here in the country - God has blessed me with such an awesome experience. Having a bit of trouble to remember the girls names, but I'm good for a laugh! They will all be at the home tomorrow so we'll get to meet all of them, I think there are about 46 - but only 20 live with us. Of course they have given up their beds for us, but they don't mind snuggling together. They have a few days off for term break, many going to a christian camp. So I think we will be teaching next week.
         
        The other day coming back from Kisumu - right on Lake victoria, we were caught in the biggest tropical rain, thunder and lighting - wow - the red earth so slippery the shoes went, we were dripping and skidding, quite funny (at least giving the locals a laugh!!!) the stream was overflowing and to cross it was over our knees! hmmm well we didnt get home to a hot shower - ha - a cold wash in a bucket, and the red soil staining all - yes then we hand washed all our clothes yesturday from a bucket.....life is wonderful. Our meals are delicious they cook on a open fire stove with 3 spaces - I have a photo! ALOT OF OUR FOOD IS GROWN IN THE GARDEN. So lush and green.

        Very Happy
        All fine - must start my long walk home.....
        wish you were here to experience these wonderful people and all
        love and miss yas
        Marie
 

Sunday ....

[Update from Marie in Maseno] .........

After an early rise to a very quiet house, we were walking to church, after 3.5 hours of worship, we walked into Maseno, to visit the girls at the Christian camp.....another 2hours of preaching, volunteers falling asleep, tired with thirst and hunger - all wanting to be back home enjoying Sunday - but here Praying is the most important thing - giving hope to all. The girls were so thrilled to see us, and to the envy of all the othe kids there! Oh they are so gorgeous, so ready to laugh and give a hug - you should hear them as I tickle them........hehehehehe
 
I was fortunate to recieve a very generous donation of $500. I have donated this straight to Edward - head of the orphanage and a wonderful preacher and mentor to these desperate children. They have lost their families to HIV, and the remaining guardians are usually too old and poor to help provide for these young ladies. As girls are so expensive to bring up, these are the first to suffer. Since the emails before I came over the number of sponsored kids has grown by ten. No assistance from anyone - just relying on God and kind donations. They have started a new building extention for another lot of orphans - they are so well looked after and loved - they are always happy hard working and look after each other. Any girl is so blessed to be able to come here. So my $500 went to try to help finish the extention - we have now some cement and the bricks are ready - so we volunteers, 8 of us will get in and help tomorrow - our goal is to try to have it finished before we leave - so pray for us! They are so very grateful for the smallest things, like the elastics to keep their school socks up. They nearly squealed with delight when they recieved back packs and raincoats, pens, exercise books and some sport equipment........so little yet they were SO OVERWHELMED. we take for granted all we have in the west!
 
Yesterday we went to Kisumu, to buy some books for revision for the girls and sanitary pads, as they have none, and use the thinnest rags....
Some of us went down to Lake Victoria, where it was so busy with people washing buses, cars, motorbikes, and themselves??? eeeeehhhhhhhh so much pollution. We ate fresh fish (from the other side of the lake) and ugali with spinach - very delicious! Most volunteers needed pizza!  A lot of homeless kids, sniffing glue to keep them from getting too hungry, oh talk about heart breaking. We had a lot of hassle on our matatu, as someone didnt pay and the bus stopped on the side of the road, and they all disappeared - the guy, the driver, and the ticket man....for about 40min......so hot and cramped, always room for an extra body....so our 1 hour journey ended up about 2.5 or more - passed a horrible accident. we were so relieved to get off and have our walk home in the dusk, gentle breeze and an amazing sunset.
 
Unfortunately 6 of our orphan chickens died last night, the kerosene lamp's switch went to high...3 were saved. Very sad.
We miss the girls - but they will be back on Tuesday ready for school on Wednesday. The last 2 nights havent rained and the star formations are so incredible......as everything here in one way or another.........
Need to go and do some washing - basin! Getting better at aiming in the long drops - its probably the worst thing here!
 
Until my next visit to an internet cafe !!!!!!!
....Marie
 

Update

We've had a few movements since arrival. Volunteers have moved from Menengai to Maseno and Bondo, in order to be more proactive. Funds and supplies have been delayed to the Menengai project so it is a good decision that the volunteers make their stay worthwhile. There is a large group in Maseno now, which is fabulous. I prefer larger groups as they are both stronger & more rewarding. I hope for some updates soon from the volunteers.

Victory in Nakuru

After months of pain and heartache, the german sponsors of the Virginia M Buena Centre (VMB) in the Rhondda slums of Nakuru are pulling out. They can no longer ensure control of finances they have already contributed to Phillip Ndeta's "fund" so have ended the entire project.

All individual and corporate contributing sponsors are meeting on August 5th to prepare plans and schedules to get as many of the children housed or educated at VMB sent to boarding schools in another area of Nakuru, where they hope ANOTHER children’s village will be built.

Existing funds, luckily not lost to Phillip Ndeta yet, are sufficient to buy a plot, an international NGO is being established in Kenya “Live and Learn in Kenya International”.

A volunteer house is also planned so the children and community can benefit from your help 365 days a year.

I wish to congratulate the most courageous, bold, strongest and kindest lady I've never had the chance to meet personally yet, Debra "Brique" Zeiner, Director of LLK.

Google's satellite imagery

Just in case you weren't familiar with this yet, go to this link for images of the Kisumu road to Maseno. You can put in any search terms and the imagery will zoom in / zoom out, go to map or satellite and give you a taste of where you're going [or for some of you] already are.

Child genius

Of course I'm biased, but its last day of school today, last day at primary for my daughter, they all brought their books home ..
From my son's literacy book, he wrote a poem based on the [global warming] weather in UK for past few months :

Wet Play
It's a wet play day today
The children are playing ping pong
A cow bell going ding dong
The rain is pouring and the children are drawing

On the window the hail is tapping
and inside the children are chatting
No rugby, no cricket, no football or tag
Stuck in here with a smelly swimming bag
[!!!!! LOL]
Teachers note : Brilliant

Just a few things more ..

... Soap for body and washing, towels, toilet paper. Edward will take you to a supermarket where you can get it all if you want when you arrive. Also, the girls could use petroleum jelly or body lotions- big jars- toothpaste, they have at the supermarket- I was going to get things in Kisumo the day this happened and never got to.

They took Ksh3000 [USD45] - Edwards money so things are tight right now. Now, if ... someone had an old tape/cassette stereo system, that would be wonderful as they love to play their wonderful tapes- great music- theirs was one of those small boombox type ones with 2 separate speakers- he had one big speaker(which they didn't take) that he attached it to in the eating room. He has a big car battery to run it... the outlets are like England. I think he just has tapes- didn't see any CDs. They also had a small b/w tv that they rarely watched but it was taken too. Charging phones or cameras is a pain - [Matt has already purchased a Solio solar charger, make sure you bring charge leads] .. if you go to the internet in Mesano (hour walk) they are great and will charge it while you're there- Also Sister Flora and a couple of the teachers have electricity and could take it home for the night.  IMPORTANT: I am going to try and get the 6 solar pots that I didn't take with the cookers, ready for you guys to bring on the plane, as they really need them. Also 3 red towels I'm getting to give to Deborah, Susan or Sara, as they are being made into sanitary pads for the girls or women or anyone as they use rags when cant afford pads- which is most of time -   Thats it! geezz, I go on. N

Last blog from dear Nancy

Greetings to all, this is Nancy who was staying at Mercy Home.
I just wanted you to know that I think you will be safe if you are going to Mercy Home.
The community is up in arms.
The day after, the house had groups of community people coming in all day with condolences and prayers, as I walked the roads, everyone would stop and shake hands and give me hugs and say polay, polay, oh so sorry. Edward went with a retired police chief, who is a friend of Mercy and a neighbor,(of some small town-ha) to Luanda and Mesano - the two towns you can walk to - each less than an hour away - and they and the police are very concerned also.
Edward will have security there while you are there. I told him that if he didn't you weren't going to stay- which, of course he agreed.  
I decided to leave the day after and return to Nairobi due to my families concerns and I think the fact that I was the lone foreigner there. ....They are the most wonderful girls in the world. It is an incredible place and the community is so friendly and kind and funny. You will love them.
The girls were very worried that now the volunteers won't come and they are so looking forward to your coming!
Ok, my last day I asked the teachers at the school I worked at, the closest to the home, if they had a wish list and so they have written out a list.

1. first aid kit
2. library books/story books (grades 1 to 8th, which 8th must read at 6th grade level)
3. any stationary materials ( I still don't know what that is- papers, pens, ? )
4. any games, equipment, balls(I have seen only balls made from plastic bags or foam that they tie with sisal rope) 5. any science equipment, games and sports uniforms (?)
6. any teaching aids: cards, pictures, maps, charts (It was hard teaching about weather for example as they had no idea what a thermometer was, barometer, wind sock, etc. - the text books say to show them pictures of everything but they have no pictures and really no access to the magazines, books we have.
7. any cassettes, tapes videos for learning-(they have no electricity so not sure how they would use- didn't see any cassettes and even if they have one they never have money for batteries- meaning I guess, bring a machine and lots of batteries -ha) Half or more of the teachers in all of these schools in the community have no electircity either- they are my heroes!
8. any learning materials : paints, brushes, art supplies- I bought powdered paint in Kisumo and brushes (they have my 15 brushes-couldn't afford more) but the paper seemed really expensive. Its all these big sheets that when you cut one up you get 8 normal size pieces. Newsprint costs 8 sheets for 10 cents/ this thick white manila paper, 8 sheets for 30 cents- wish I had had tons of US regular construction paper that we use for painting.
Then, I collected bottle caps and any lids I could get my hands on via kids, soda bottles, etc.
9. Any other materials at your disposal.   

Ok, when you come, I would suggest that you get Susan (write this down)-Susan, works with Mercy Home and is the best, have her show you some schools before you sign up to work anywhere, and before you give away what ever you bring. There are many schools in the area and all are extremly poor and don't have electricity. My favorite is past Susans house, down the path , across the river on the log and up the hill- they seem to have a lot of science, very hands on teachers (not that the others aren't great too).
They will all be on vacation for the week following the 3rd of August(the last day), then they come back to study and prepare for the next term which starts the first of sept. Yes, you can be busy that first week anyway.  
Do bring torches and I used a candle in my room as they only have 4 lanterns I didn't want to take one - after the first week I stopped buying bottled water (until the bottle got dirty looking) and realized I could just fill it with the stored boiled water at the house. Main reason, what do you do with all that plastic when there is no garbage, recycling- they either burn it or throw out with the bananas- My guilt was always bad, each time I had to throw used batteries in the outhouse!

Oh, you'll have a grand time! Just don't expect to eat any good food- my favorite meals were the night we had beans and chapatis and the nights of rice- if I knew I would buy some avocados and mix it in- wonderful- this is not what I would normally say as favorite foods by the way. But I am really glad I was able to eat their food and not have special things- it made it more reality based.

My wish for the girls would be some milk products and fruit daily and some good breakfast food. But there isn't the money for that. I also think it will be nice if you do meet each other everyweek someplace. It will be a nice break.  Well, if you come, be ready to see another world and to have your heart really touched!  By the way, they took my digital camera with the best pictures- I am crushed. So I am hoping when you return one of you can send me some via email or post- I took tons with Susan and she said when you visit her house she will pose for you so you can get me some- her house is great- very basic and she is so open you can get her cooking on her 3 rock stove, the dung on the walls, the corn drying in her main room- great stuff! smiles. Plus some wonderful shots of the valley as you walk to Luanda! You see- Plus the girls cooking and cleaning and washing - oh. I'll stop. Enjoy! Nancy

Message from Menengai

I just received this via Raul, and Nicholas in Menengai :

"We have discussed this issue of security with Boniface [advisor, assistant and local artisan in Menengai] and the committee. Their [the volunteers] security is assured. Menengai also does not have a history of thuggery. Two, the place the volunteers will be staying is walled all around with security lights at strategic points. I will talk to the village security team who patrol at night to be extra vigilant.
Assure them of their well-being.
Greetings from Boniface and my wife.
Kindest regards,
Nicholas"

JNMCC

It is with great sadness that I have to inform you that JNMCC, in Maseno, Kenya was robbed last night. Ksh500 (USD7.5 !!!!!!!) and Nancy's mobile phone were taken.

Security guards are being brought in but the damage is already done.
Everyone at JNMCC has been scared and disheartened.

I am informing you all because THIS HAPPENS.
With the huge divide in wealth in Kenya, it happens less in the rural areas but news travels fast when "muzungus" arrive. People hear you are all arriving and have lots of money and mobile phones and some people are so poor they see no other option but to steal.
We all know it ruins opportunities for everyone else, especially the Kenyans.
It ruins lives, the lives of the children especially, because this crime affects us, scares us and we stay away.

If any of you decide not to join us in Kenya we will fully understand but I hope that none of you allow these men to ruin your experience or the progress we are already making to the lives of some of the good, kind Kenyan people.

As per our website, I wish to stress the importance of resilience, self-reliance, and innovation. We must separate fact from emotion & balance necessary levels of protection whilst preserving reasonable levels of risk. AVIF cannot prevent this type of occurrence. We cannot stop the burglar entering our own homes, either, but we can lessen the risk and empower you to take more personal responsibility for risk since you are best placed to manage it.

There will be additional security guards on the grounds for the duration of the programme.
JNMCC was the only host not to have security, or to think they did not need it. They are just as saddened by this as we are.

Earthquake update

An up to the minute and zoom-able map of earthquakes in Africa can be found here on the USGS website, updated every 30 minutes.

Details of each event are available by clicking on the squares, or through the "Earthquake list" option at the bottom of the page.

Feedback from Maseno

... great to hear from you! [Matt writing from UK about to join Nancy in Kenya]... Our girls at Mercy home are so wonderful and actually live a fairly middle class life in comparison to others in the community. Now, I am referring to Kenyan rural middle class.  I am getting them all mosquito nets before I leave - and if I knew no-one was bringing backpacks, I would get them all one too. They are so wonderful and carry these bags that break, some have little bags. But that would be my gift if you can get some, 2nd hand or they cost about 300 shillings here [USD4.5]- which is why I would get them. Also ponchos and/ or umbrellas. The younger girls don't get shoes for school- they use flippers- and I am getting a couple of pairs.  It rains here a couple of times a week and pours and they get soaked. Lots of coughs here.
It is warm, I think I have put a light jacket on twice. 
Schools: As a teacher I could cry thinking of these teachers as my heros. They need the most for their schools. I brought 4 blow-up plastic globes, and 2 world maps and wish I had 50. Our girls have maps and a globe from volunteers. I bought paints and brushes and paper for the art classes I have- only 16 brushes (then I borrowed 13 from the girls at Mercy- last years volunteers brought them) so have 29 and each class has 45 or so students. We use feathers and the stick brushes from trees.
They have no science things - secondary do. They [teachers] and the students work so hard, I have such respect for them. I am planning on sending my science-for-teachers reference book to Gerald, one of the teachers, and simple science experiment books that they could use with really simple items that don't have to be purchased.  A thermometer, wind vane/sock, etc. would be great but bring more than one as you will visit schools that are so poor and will just want to give them supplies.
My favorite school- mark this down- is past the local school I work at- Susan, who you will meet knows which one- its across the river and up the hill - all walking- they plant trees and plants for the children to take home, have rabbits, make their own charcoal from a felled tree, etc. None have elctricity ! I gave them a solar cooker and a blow-up globe and they are really enjoying it as they're very scientific.
Pens are at a premium- stupid rules, must use pens, which cost more than pencils (they use both). They get 3 per year which is not enough. Also, exercise books which they write in- oh, you'll see. 

...I miss fruit the most- I can't just buy for me so have to buy for 15 and that means we each get 2 bites of whatever ... ask Susan to show you the different schools in the area as you might prefer to teach at another one. Now, they have vacation starting the friday the 3rd (?) of august and then after a week they go back to class to study for when school starts the first of Sept. You might want to work in one of the high schools or my favorite the environmental school ... I haven't seen one real ball since I've been here- the kids make them out of plastic bags and tie with rope...if parents can send food monthly they [the children] get lunch, which is beans and corn everyday- they each bring a little container to put their food in.  They all know how to cook- ugali and greens daily and the little ones can cook too.

[Many thanks for this, Nancy]

AVIF Update 15

Re. communication, to avoid confusion please remember that ALL mobile phones use satellite signalling, the difference is whether your phone is dual band / tri band / is set up for international roaming and masses of other jargon & labels etc !!!

Go here for full information; a prepaid Kenya SIM card with a GSM international cell phone is the most convenient and economical solution while you travel in Kenya. All incoming calls while in Kenya, regardless of where they originate, are FREE! Pay the local rate for local calls and use a cellular phone in Kenya like you do at home. And unlike home, your Kenya SIM card and cell phone service is prepaid so there is no need for a contract.

You can send an SMS people can call you back, SMS you back.
If you want to make international calls you will need an international SIM, again, you can get these in Nairobi.
Forget landlines, there may be one available, maybe not.

Recent events

I want to keep you informed of recent geological events, namely the tremors felt in Nairobi.
The world can be a very scary place when these things happen, things we have no control over, but its best to simply remain calm and stay informed.
For further information I include these articles :
http://www.eastandard.net/hm_news/news.php?articleid=1143971378
http://allafrica.com/stories/200707180087.html
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/africa/6903261.stm

Text : A strong earthquake has hit northern Tanzania, with aftershocks felt as far away as the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, the US Geological Survey (USGS) said. The quake hit with a magnitude of 6.0, about 100km (60 miles) from the northern Tanzanian town of Arusha. Some high-rise buildings in Nairobi, about 155km away, are reported to have shaken gently for several minutes.
The quake is the latest in a series to hit the East African region in the past several days.
There were no immediate reports of casualties or building damage in either Tanzania or Kenya.
East Africa's Great Rift Valley runs along a geological fault line, but has largely escaped major quakes in recent years. The Kenyan government is expected to make a statement on Wednesday on the findings of an investigation by geological experts into the recent tremors.

Development Education Newsletter

The DEA's Vision is of EDUCATION that encourages and enables all people to think critically and to aspire and work towards a more just and sustainable world.

For all of you interested please visit DEA itself, or simply sign up to their excellent Newsletter by emailing 'SUBSCRIBE' to: e-noticeboard@dea.org.uk. Also available online.

Online volunteering (via Facebook)

You will have to either LOG IN or REGISTER with Facebook first but this is a video shot by Raul Caceres & friends, Project Facilitator for the NABUUR project in Menengai, Kenya.
Facebook is fast becoming another excellent medium for social networking across the globe .. enjoy!


Technorati Tags: facebook, online volunteering, africa

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Class assignment

I just can't wait for all to arrive and experience this for yourselves ...

Message from Nancy :

Friday we had a writing exercise in my 7th grade English class:
I quarrelled with my brother/sister about___________.

We brainstormed on the board examples - they kind of show where I am:   guarding the shamba (farm/garden),  gathering firewood, feeding the cow (meaning going out to gather the food), grazing the cow, fetching the water, cooking the food, washing the dishes, guarding the house (people don't like to leave their compounds -land/home- as people come in and steal), mopping the floor (by hand with rag), digging in the shamba.  

Enjoy, Nancy

AMREF's Virtual Tours

This really is thought provoking.
AMREF has included panoramic Java-enabled tours of the Kibera slum area of Nairobi. One of our volunteers will be spending some additional time assisting in one of the area's clinics prior to joining JNMCC in Maseno. There are just so many needy people in Kenya but it is essential to focus on one project or you can find yourself simply overwhelmed.


Technorati Tags: kibera slum AMREF poverty

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A new eBay for Charity listing for AVIF - LIVE EARTH tickets

Many thanks to "Henrydoe" and MissionFish :

 A new listing has just been posted on eBay to benefit AVIF.
This listing is onsale now on eBay.
eBay for Charity Listing: X2 TICKETS TO LIVE EARTH
Donation Percentage: 20.0%
This is possible through http://www.missionfish.org.uk

The main Live Earth website is here, 7 July 2007

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Thank You Matt & Campsmount College, Norton, Doncaster, UK

I want to say Thank you to Matt McDonald, joining JNMCC as part of the Summer Programme.

Matt teaches Year 7 students (age 11/12 yrs) at Campsmount College in Doncaster, UK.
Campsmount are helping to print and laminate the posters and the Yr 7 pupils have been so keen to be involved they have started several initiatives around the school such as collecting stationary items and umbrellas, calendars, etc. They have also started 'pen-pal' letters with photos for the students in the area.
The local press are highlighting the students efforts and we'd also like to thank the Head Mr A Sprakes, helping to create permanent links with the schools (& already donated around £200 worth of equipment to take over later this month.)

ASANTE SANA
(thank you very much)

Published on blog

AVIF Update 12

I hope everyone is well and plans are all being finalised.
Please contact me with any further questions.

Regarding the posters, http://www.fourthway.co.uk/posters/ I am hoping that Sharon can have some of these printed out so you can take them with you. There is an instructions poster here http://www.fourthway.co.uk/posters/pages/cover.html

Can you all please make sure you are subscribed to the Blog as updates are published there and act as an archive for information. If you subscribe (most of you should already be) you will get sent the updates every time I write something.

We have fantastic news about 3 of the girls from JNMCC. Sharon had a networking trip to the States last year and met an NGO called Zawadi. They are interviewing the girls to go to the United States on a full scholarship .. keep your fingers crossed for them.

540 Airlines are having problems with their online booking system but have reserved flights for you. They should be coming to the Orientation to meet you so you can arrange payment there, or they will take you to the office themselves.

We were wondering if any of you wanted to plan a classroom painting day with your hosts. Paint is very cheap and as you will see walls can be very bare. Please consider this activity. Sharon pointed out that it would of course involve the children in a fantastic lasting project. You can make arrangements on arrival with your hosts.

Kindest regards
Alison

Fantastic Educational Posters

I've just been sent the actual posters, designed brilliantly, creatively and simply by Sam Rick, based in Uganda. All the posters are available for download here please pass them on to anyone you can.

They easily and simply illustrate many sustainable processes for health, farming, hygiene, cooking which we'll definitely be passing out at Orientation this Summer when our volunteers visit Kenya.




Technorati Tags: sustainable development, africa, kenya, Fourth Way, Sam Rich

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So much more to Africa

Thank you for a fantastic blog by Hellen Kakooza-Slade, a Ugandan lady now living in the UK. We met through the wonderful social-networking site i Genius.

Hellen points out the absolute truth in todays sustainable development process and reminds us all of the sheer brilliance of simplicity and resolve. Ilnesses treated herbally, locally, for free, demands a global debate of its own, especially in Africa. Harambee (everyone pulling together) is an important lesson for all.


Technorati Tags: sustainable development, family, africa

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