Day three in Nakuru and we’re coaching at our last two schools, in advance of the Festival. The first, Kivumbini Secondary School, uses the same overgrown field as yesterday morning! We set up five stations with Nick hosting an HIV discussion station, and while the entire school plays cricket for the first time Thom tries to timekeep and monitor the sessions whilst talking to the Headmaster about the impact of COVID and lockdowns; higher rates of pregnancy in all ages, higher rates of HIV infections, increases in gang crime, reduced personal safety. In a society where the majority live hand to mouth and day to day COVID has been nothing short of a social disaster.
We also meet an 18 year old girl, who hardly participates, much to the concern of Sian. With some careful and caring questioning Sian finds out that this young lady is one of 8 children, living in a small slum house with no income. Her parents are always arguing about money, she is helping to care for her siblings and she is withdrawn and isolated in school. The girl is hungry and lacks energy and concentration. Sian informs a teacher at the school, who is totally unaware of the wider family environment. She promises to take the girl under her supervision and the team resolve to help as best we can. Whilst we can’t improve things for everyone we meet we might be able to improve something for one person.
Our second school Baharini Primary School almost seems to disappear in a blur of heat, dust and long grass, an autopilot type session after the emotions of Kivumbini. The team now have 24 hours off before the Nakuru Festival. Time to regroup, recharge and reflect.
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