The week that was...

We have just completed a very challenging week at Kibra, but we adapted to the challenges with some good old creativity. Earlier in the week Maria and James McElwain who were helping out at the Kibra Lab flew back home to the USA. They had been helping us out for the past two weeks, and we miss their contributions to the program. Unfortunately, our week has been marred by the current power black-outs happening in Nairobi with the government implementing a power rationing scheme on account of a national drought. Since it seems like the rationing is going to be here to stay, we are planning on alternative methods of teaching.

Of notable mention however, we have had an extra 20 desktop computers, a server, a 20 port switch, a printer and back-up batteries donated by Kensington Tours and the Kensington Cares Foundation who have a partnership with the Children of Kibera Foundation. Now the computer lab at Kibra Academy can comfortably sit 30 students (approximately a whole grade level) at once. We cancelled some of the classes this week to help the Kensington Cares technicians set up the new machines and integrate them into the lab.

We have also had a problem with an internet connection owing to the school's management descision making. Its also an expensive option and may even be regarded as a luxury. So it might be understandable when the school's management seems to drag its feet. We will keep reminding them however.

Today (Friday, August 7th) we will be leaving for a retreat we are organizing at the "Word of Life" retreat center. This weekend is for the students which CoKF sponsors to go to high schools outside of Kibera. We will be having a lot of fun, but hopefully also providing some positive influence and mentorship for these impressionable young persons. More on that next week.

Have a fabulous weekend everyone.