World is on Fire

I'm starting my 4th week here, and it's been a rough few days. After my trip to the Mpala Ranch, I came back to Nairobi sad and frustrated by the endless corruption and pollution here. I cant help but feel that in this major city in Eastern Africa, it doesn’t have to be this way. It’s hard not to be effected by the high rates of respiratory problems that make the children sick. In Kibera local children work to collect trash and recycle it. But often times it’s too expensive, as the different government offices keep charging them random fees (and often charge them twice for the same task). The local schools sell off their sports fields to make money from rich land owners, and cut programs for students. And all of it comes with the explanation that there is nothing anyone can do, because no one will listen. The feeling of helplessness and defeat is overwhelming.

Luckily I find solace when I’m in Kibera with the kids. I was finally able to bring my camera to the slum. Here is a very limited view of what I see everyday.

A river and a sewage dump. The hopes are that the rainy season will flush out the trash, as there is no trash pick up in Kibera.

Some kids playing in the River/Sewage.

In the distance you can see the apartments that are supposedly "upgrades" for the Kibera residents to move into. Unfortunately, most will not be able to afford living there, and new people will inhabit the homes.

Kenny telling me about his neighborhood. The scarf I'm holding is the one I use to cover my face when the dirt and dried sewage kick up in the wind.

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I’m missing home very much. I miss the clean air and environmental consciousness and the laws that protect the people. I miss my friends and family. I never knew how hard it could be to go without a hug from someone you love. I’m so grateful to all of the well wishes you have all been sending. It’s really getting me through. We really are fortunate people. With so much love...