Jambo Kenya

Hey Everyone,

I have been in Nairobi, Kenya for two weeks now and have had so many unique experiences already. I was picked up at the airport by some AIESECers and we hung out and got some food and went to a bar that was in the back of a police station(same as you Burbs?). The first weekend was spent adjusting, which included a Kenya vs Nigeria football match. Since, I have been teaching business studies in Mathari, a slum area that is beyond description. The conditions are so low and the people have so little. It is so dirty and infested with garbage, stray animals, and feces. I teach grades 10, 11, and 12 and the students are very appreciative and attentive. They always have many questions for me, especially about the US and our culture. The people in the slums are very grateful and happy to see a white person (mzungu) and every day children run up and want to shake my hand and constantly ask, "how are you?"

I went on my first safari, which was amazing! I saw so many animals in their natural habitat, which was a bit different than a zoo. On the way there, our vehicle kept getting stuck in the mud so we had to get out and push so many times, getting drenched in mud. Although the trip was very dirty and frustrating at times, it was worth it to see the landscapes and animals.

The security of Kenya, and especially Mathari has been on the decline in the past few weeks. A few days ago, the Mungiki sect killed four police officers in the slums. The police and military responded by raiding the slums and killing some 35 people suspected to be involved. Yesterday, the police and military were searching areas right by my school. I was standing with a large group of people watching from a distance, but ran away when a military officer cocked the reloader of his machine gun and pointed it at us. Later, during one of my lessons, we heard guns shots near by and looked out the window only to see the director of the school being chased by a machine gun lead military officer. All the students were screaming and I was forced to try to calm them and lead them back into the classroom away from the windows and door. This was by far the most stressful day so far, as you may guess.

Although this description is scary, I do find myself feeling safe and optimistic. The LC is helpful and responsive to my safety and concerns. I took the day off from teaching today and will check conditions on Monday. Overall, my experiences here have been amazing. I have meet so many amazing people and love my host family. I am looking forward to my next seven or so weeks and can't wait for more experiences here in Kenya.