http://www.nationmedia.com/dailynation/nmgcontententry.asp?category_id=39&newsid=113676
I want to go on living in Kenya
Story by MILDRED NGESA Monday Mix Publication
Date: 12/31/2007
I want to stay here in Kenya. Yes, I want to stay, even though every part of me is telling me that I probably shouldn’t. On the way to the office Sunday, the ghost of a deserted city centre was mocking me with every step I took. It was the ghost of past events which appeared to suggest that all was not well in this country — that all might not be well for a long time. Empty streets. One or two pedestrians strolling towards uncertainty as they braved the chilling silence in the city.
And on lamp posts, walls and buildings were posters of politicians, they in whose hands the fate of a Kenya remains. It is Monday, the 31st. The very last day of the year 2007. I had planned to write something invigorating and uplifting, something full of cheer. Something warm to celebrate the end of an eventful year. However, the events of the past four days have shifted my focus because the fate of Kenya hangs in the balance.
On Saturday, it all dawned on me, just how dangerously we were treading on the throes of violence. A friend’s brother knocked on my door in the evening. He was accompanied by his wife and a two-year-old child.
They were seeking refuge, fearing that violence would erupt in Kawangware slums. They did not even bring with them basic belongings after rowdy crowds spilled into the streets to protest over delayed results.
As I fumbled for provisions to make the family comfortable, I wondered to myself: is this really what we are coming to? Does it really have to be this bad?
On television, the images from across the country were not encouraging either. So much anger and anxiety! So much hatred and resentment! So much pent-up fury! What has happened to us my brothers? Just when did the rain begin to beat us so hard? In so short a time, the country has been transformed into a potential time-bomb just waiting to burst at the seams. I am not sure what will happen tonight. I don’t even know if we shall wake-up to bask in the sunlight tomorrow. But if you are reading this and feeling the way I am, then you will agree with me it is just not worth fighting for.
Still I am angry with politicians who have been sending out insincere messages of peace and tranquillity. Some of them have failed to put the well-being of the country ahead of everything else.
Now I know for sure and I have been convinced beyond doubt that the problem is never really with us the voters. It is not with you and me who woke up on the morning of Thursday the 27th to line-up and cast our vote.
Greedy for power
The problem is and has always been with those at the top, those hungry and greedy for power, and those with the responsibility to decide for the rest of the millions of Kenyans. The problem has always been with those already in power and those scrambling for it.
We were tribe-less on that early morning queue on voting day. We all braved the chill to stand up and be counted in a major historic event. We met in the queue — strangers from different parts of this nation. For over five hours, while moving along slowly and in orderly and patient manner, we became friends of the moment, chatting and joking among ourselves about this and that.
The discussions were wide and vast, bordering on family, careers and other life issues. We laughed as we waited. We knew why we were there, surprisingly none of us got into the nitty-gritty of the political tempo that was the undeniable reason for our meeting.
We did not need to. We had exhausted that in months of campaigns countrywide. It did not matter then that we had dissenting views on who our favourite candidates were. We knew that. It just did not matter. At the end of it, we gave each other the thumbs-up, wishing each other well as we entered the voting booth. There was no fight, no scuffle.
This is one of the reasons why I want to remain in this county even as it seems like an un-attractive place to be in at the moment. Kenyans are peaceful people.
They are calm and rational. They love their country. Trust me, they do. That is why even amidst all the melee and pockets of violence reported across the country, Kenyans still want to see and experience the best of positivism that can come out of an anxious situation.
Today, despite the uneasy calm in the city, I caught myself staring into the eyes of strangers so that I could catch a glimpse of their souls.
Something profound
Eyes do not lie. Believe me when I say that what I saw in the eyes of the strangers was something profound. It was something peaceful and calm. And that, ladies and gentlemen, is the reason I want to stay here.
Monday, December 31, 2007
If I ruled the world
http://www.capitalfm.co.ke/
NAIROBI, December 30 - President Mwai Kibaki was sworn in Sunday, minutes after he was declared winner of the hotly contested 2007 General Election.
At the lush State House Nairobi gardens and witnessed by newly elected Members of Parliament, the President took his oath to serve the Kenyan Republic fairly and diligently.
The Head of State was sworn in by the Chief Justice Evan Gicheru in the presence of Cabinet Ministers, service commanders, the Police Commissioner, members of the Diplomatic Corps, and other dignitaries.
The ceremony was conducted by the Head of the Civil Service Francis Muthaura, less than an hour after the Electoral Commission of Kenya (ECK) Chairman Samuel Kivuitu made the declaration.
Kivuitu presented the President with the certificate confirming his re-election.
In his speech after taking the oath, the Head of State expressed humility about the public's decision to give him a second term in office.
“On my part as your President, I will lead in promoting tolerance and harmony among all Kenyans,” he promised.
He appealed for calm across the country and urged the poll losers to accept defeat and work with him to steer development for the greater good.
“I’m confident that together we will succeed in changing the country for the benefit of all Kenyans,” he assured.
NAIROBI, December 30 - Raila Amollo Odinga’s bid to oust President Mwai Kibaki from State House has failed.
The blow to his ambition was delivered at an Electoral Commission of Kenya (ECK) news conference, where President Mwai Kibaki was issued a second and final mandate to lead the Kenyan republic.
When the ECK Chairman Samuel Kivuitu made the announcement at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC), winners and losers alike were unable to restrain their emotions, which have been running high for several months now.
Raila’s supporters at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC) were outraged by the announcement, which relegated the man they had prematurely announced as president to the Leader of the Official Opposition.
http://www.cnn.com/2007/WORLD/africa/12/30/kenya.elex/index.html
Police denied there had been violence following the announcement of the result, which was contested by Odinga's party who accused the government of "doctoring" the count.
But a CNN crew witnessed plumes of smoke rising over the Kibari slum, a stronghold of support for the opposition and the scene of pitched battles between rioters and police on Saturday.
Witnesses said rioters were setting fire to buildings in protest at the result, CNN producer Kim Norgaard reported. See images of election violence in Kenya »
"This country is going to turn into a war zone," The Associated Press quoted Kibari resident Elisha Kayugira as saying.
Following a swearing-in ceremony, Kibaki insisted the elections were "free and fair" and called upon opposition parties to set aside their differences and to "let us all work together to build consensus." Watch as Kibaki calls for "healing and reconciliation" »
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071231/ap_on_re_af/kenya_elections;_ylt=AoX4togapWDflUstFKpOvx9vaA8F
Soon after the results were announced, the government suspended live television broadcasts and the slums, home to tens of thousands of opposition supporters, exploded into fresh violence. At least 15 people were killed in fighting across the country, police and witnesses said, although the tally was likely higher.
"This country is going to turn into a war zone," said Elisha Kayugira, who ran through the Kibera shantytown searching for his sister as columns of black smoke curled above the maze of shacks and winding dirt roads.
... So that is what has been happening in the last few days here in Kenya. The country is in a bit of chaos right now, but it's not as bad as it seems in the news. And the streets of Nairobi are totally empty. I haven't even been out of the house since Thursday. We were planning to spend New Year's Eve at the coast with some friends, but for safety reasons everyone is staying at home right now.
It's been quite fun though - of course I'm not talking about the chaos now - I have been spendning my last few days with Kent's family and friends in his house (just right next to my house). His daughter, Diana and her friend, Chebet have been a really good company. We cook together every day, talk a lot, watch movies... It's really nice like this.
Otherwise, at least I have some time to work on my thesis, and to chill. I just hope all will be ok in a few days from now. We have MC team days from 3rd January and we are supposed to have it in Mombasa. I really really hope we can go there then.
That's it for now, just wanted to give a brief on what's happening. Happy 2008 for everyone!!!
NAIROBI, December 30 - President Mwai Kibaki was sworn in Sunday, minutes after he was declared winner of the hotly contested 2007 General Election.
At the lush State House Nairobi gardens and witnessed by newly elected Members of Parliament, the President took his oath to serve the Kenyan Republic fairly and diligently.
The Head of State was sworn in by the Chief Justice Evan Gicheru in the presence of Cabinet Ministers, service commanders, the Police Commissioner, members of the Diplomatic Corps, and other dignitaries.
The ceremony was conducted by the Head of the Civil Service Francis Muthaura, less than an hour after the Electoral Commission of Kenya (ECK) Chairman Samuel Kivuitu made the declaration.
Kivuitu presented the President with the certificate confirming his re-election.
In his speech after taking the oath, the Head of State expressed humility about the public's decision to give him a second term in office.
“On my part as your President, I will lead in promoting tolerance and harmony among all Kenyans,” he promised.
He appealed for calm across the country and urged the poll losers to accept defeat and work with him to steer development for the greater good.
“I’m confident that together we will succeed in changing the country for the benefit of all Kenyans,” he assured.
NAIROBI, December 30 - Raila Amollo Odinga’s bid to oust President Mwai Kibaki from State House has failed.
The blow to his ambition was delivered at an Electoral Commission of Kenya (ECK) news conference, where President Mwai Kibaki was issued a second and final mandate to lead the Kenyan republic.
When the ECK Chairman Samuel Kivuitu made the announcement at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC), winners and losers alike were unable to restrain their emotions, which have been running high for several months now.
Raila’s supporters at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC) were outraged by the announcement, which relegated the man they had prematurely announced as president to the Leader of the Official Opposition.
http://www.cnn.com/2007/WORLD/africa/12/30/kenya.elex/index.html
Police denied there had been violence following the announcement of the result, which was contested by Odinga's party who accused the government of "doctoring" the count.
But a CNN crew witnessed plumes of smoke rising over the Kibari slum, a stronghold of support for the opposition and the scene of pitched battles between rioters and police on Saturday.
Witnesses said rioters were setting fire to buildings in protest at the result, CNN producer Kim Norgaard reported. See images of election violence in Kenya »
"This country is going to turn into a war zone," The Associated Press quoted Kibari resident Elisha Kayugira as saying.
Following a swearing-in ceremony, Kibaki insisted the elections were "free and fair" and called upon opposition parties to set aside their differences and to "let us all work together to build consensus." Watch as Kibaki calls for "healing and reconciliation" »
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071231/ap_on_re_af/kenya_elections;_ylt=AoX4togapWDflUstFKpOvx9vaA8F
Soon after the results were announced, the government suspended live television broadcasts and the slums, home to tens of thousands of opposition supporters, exploded into fresh violence. At least 15 people were killed in fighting across the country, police and witnesses said, although the tally was likely higher.
"This country is going to turn into a war zone," said Elisha Kayugira, who ran through the Kibera shantytown searching for his sister as columns of black smoke curled above the maze of shacks and winding dirt roads.
... So that is what has been happening in the last few days here in Kenya. The country is in a bit of chaos right now, but it's not as bad as it seems in the news. And the streets of Nairobi are totally empty. I haven't even been out of the house since Thursday. We were planning to spend New Year's Eve at the coast with some friends, but for safety reasons everyone is staying at home right now.
It's been quite fun though - of course I'm not talking about the chaos now - I have been spendning my last few days with Kent's family and friends in his house (just right next to my house). His daughter, Diana and her friend, Chebet have been a really good company. We cook together every day, talk a lot, watch movies... It's really nice like this.
Otherwise, at least I have some time to work on my thesis, and to chill. I just hope all will be ok in a few days from now. We have MC team days from 3rd January and we are supposed to have it in Mombasa. I really really hope we can go there then.
That's it for now, just wanted to give a brief on what's happening. Happy 2008 for everyone!!!
Thursday, December 27, 2007
A kind of magic
First of all, my baby - my laptop - is suffering. Some kinda bad bad virus has attacked him, and now he needs rest. I'm so worried. But I trust everything will be alright, and both the baby and my 40 GB data will survive... I just need him get repaired very very soon.
Though today I couldn't make it - everything has been closed. It is the day of presidential election here. I was in town in the afternoon. I thought people would be out in the streets and excitement would be tengible in the air... Surprisingly, all streets were empty, everything seemed to be so peaceful. However, Audi told me in the afternoon, not to go out cos it was too dangerous. Anyways, am so curious about the results. We'll get to know everything by tomorrow.
By last week I got quite tired. I've needed this break very much. We're officially on holidays since Friday evening. Since then my days are made by randomness and sponteinous decisions. I enjoy it very much.
On Friday evening Leah and me started the holidays at LC Nairobi's Stakeholders' Dinner. We didn't want to stay long, but as we met there 2 of our alumni, Alvin and Alex, and the food seemed to be quite nice as well, we decided to stay. Those 2 men entertained us a lot, finally we ended up spending the whole evening and night together with them and with some more people. But not running ahead of the story - as Leah and me had to be at Wasani by 8pm, at 9pm Alvin finally gave us a lift and promised to join us later, together with 3 other alumni, Alex, Emily and Jonson.
At Wasani we found ourselves at a Salsa Night - who knows me well knows that I'm in love with salsa, so I had some nice moments first with Gathu, then with Nash, dancing :-)
After this, when the alumnis arrived, everyone wanted to go to Carnivore, which is the most famous restaurant and bar of Nairobi. Shame on me, but I hadn't been there before. And I didn't even want to go this time, but Leah pointed out that I didn't have any good excuse not to go, so I had no choice... It was good decision though, we had fun.
Next day I needed to finish some work in the office, but I had such a hangover, I just wanted to survive the day. Then I got a call from Nick (my contact at Resource Associates) that he is going for dinner with some friends, and I should join them. Alright, I said, why not...? It turned out to be really interesting - Nick's friends consisted of a TV reporter, 2 girls from the USA working in Rwanda, and his nephew, also working in Rwanda.
I need to tell a few words about Christmas in Kenya, I guess. First of all, 24th December here is not celebrated at all. Shops were still open, and that was the last day of campaign rallies as well, so all streets were busy and crowded. I spent my evening with Audi, having some beers and playing pool. Then the 25th and 26th are the official public holidays. Though the Western type Christmas is totally missing here - fortunately. No rush for Christmas presents, no big hustle about the whole event... Kenyan Christmas is about being together with your family and friends, enjoy your time, share and care. This way I think it's easy to enjoy Christmas even if your family is not there - it's not as private as in Hungary, much more open to the extended family and friends as well.I spent my 25th afternoon with Audi's family. There was a big get-together, as uncle Steve has come back to Kenya from the US after 25 years. There were about 40 people, all of them members of the family in one way or the other. First when Audi told me about this number I was so scared, but finally I got to like it really much.
Then my 26th was the Christmas surprise for me I think. I have 2 friends, Maya and Tomi (from AIESEC Hungary, LC BCE) who have been working in Ethiopia in the past few months. As they are now done with their jobs, they are traveling in Kenya and Tanzania for a few weeks. They arrived to Kenya on 25th, so we managed to hook up yesterday and spend the whole afternoon together!
First of all, I was so happy to speak some Hungarian again. It's been 4 months now I couldn't do so. We took a long walk, as they wanted to see the City Park, which was quite a distance from town, so finally we were walking and walking for about 2.5 hours. Honestly, we were going through places in Nairobi I've never seen before. The best part of all was sharing - Tomi has spent 4 months in Ethipia, which means many many stories and thoughts about the country. Kenya seems to be piece of heaven compared to it.
They have left to Tanzania today, but will get back to Kenya by January, coming even for our
National Conference.
Today I met Shivo for a coffee. I haven't talked to him for a very long while now. Old stories. He's going back to SA again in January, he's got a 2-years contract at the company he's been working at.
I feel good not thinking about work in the last few days. I promised myself I wouldn't be working during holidays and I'm keeping myself to this promise very strictly. And it works, I feel refreshed. I have even rediscovered old-new feelings. Especially one that is called "love" and that will make my heart break very very soon...
Though today I couldn't make it - everything has been closed. It is the day of presidential election here. I was in town in the afternoon. I thought people would be out in the streets and excitement would be tengible in the air... Surprisingly, all streets were empty, everything seemed to be so peaceful. However, Audi told me in the afternoon, not to go out cos it was too dangerous. Anyways, am so curious about the results. We'll get to know everything by tomorrow.
By last week I got quite tired. I've needed this break very much. We're officially on holidays since Friday evening. Since then my days are made by randomness and sponteinous decisions. I enjoy it very much.
On Friday evening Leah and me started the holidays at LC Nairobi's Stakeholders' Dinner. We didn't want to stay long, but as we met there 2 of our alumni, Alvin and Alex, and the food seemed to be quite nice as well, we decided to stay. Those 2 men entertained us a lot, finally we ended up spending the whole evening and night together with them and with some more people. But not running ahead of the story - as Leah and me had to be at Wasani by 8pm, at 9pm Alvin finally gave us a lift and promised to join us later, together with 3 other alumni, Alex, Emily and Jonson.
At Wasani we found ourselves at a Salsa Night - who knows me well knows that I'm in love with salsa, so I had some nice moments first with Gathu, then with Nash, dancing :-)
After this, when the alumnis arrived, everyone wanted to go to Carnivore, which is the most famous restaurant and bar of Nairobi. Shame on me, but I hadn't been there before. And I didn't even want to go this time, but Leah pointed out that I didn't have any good excuse not to go, so I had no choice... It was good decision though, we had fun.
Next day I needed to finish some work in the office, but I had such a hangover, I just wanted to survive the day. Then I got a call from Nick (my contact at Resource Associates) that he is going for dinner with some friends, and I should join them. Alright, I said, why not...? It turned out to be really interesting - Nick's friends consisted of a TV reporter, 2 girls from the USA working in Rwanda, and his nephew, also working in Rwanda.
I need to tell a few words about Christmas in Kenya, I guess. First of all, 24th December here is not celebrated at all. Shops were still open, and that was the last day of campaign rallies as well, so all streets were busy and crowded. I spent my evening with Audi, having some beers and playing pool. Then the 25th and 26th are the official public holidays. Though the Western type Christmas is totally missing here - fortunately. No rush for Christmas presents, no big hustle about the whole event... Kenyan Christmas is about being together with your family and friends, enjoy your time, share and care. This way I think it's easy to enjoy Christmas even if your family is not there - it's not as private as in Hungary, much more open to the extended family and friends as well.I spent my 25th afternoon with Audi's family. There was a big get-together, as uncle Steve has come back to Kenya from the US after 25 years. There were about 40 people, all of them members of the family in one way or the other. First when Audi told me about this number I was so scared, but finally I got to like it really much.
Then my 26th was the Christmas surprise for me I think. I have 2 friends, Maya and Tomi (from AIESEC Hungary, LC BCE) who have been working in Ethiopia in the past few months. As they are now done with their jobs, they are traveling in Kenya and Tanzania for a few weeks. They arrived to Kenya on 25th, so we managed to hook up yesterday and spend the whole afternoon together!
First of all, I was so happy to speak some Hungarian again. It's been 4 months now I couldn't do so. We took a long walk, as they wanted to see the City Park, which was quite a distance from town, so finally we were walking and walking for about 2.5 hours. Honestly, we were going through places in Nairobi I've never seen before. The best part of all was sharing - Tomi has spent 4 months in Ethipia, which means many many stories and thoughts about the country. Kenya seems to be piece of heaven compared to it.
They have left to Tanzania today, but will get back to Kenya by January, coming even for our
National Conference.
Today I met Shivo for a coffee. I haven't talked to him for a very long while now. Old stories. He's going back to SA again in January, he's got a 2-years contract at the company he's been working at.
I feel good not thinking about work in the last few days. I promised myself I wouldn't be working during holidays and I'm keeping myself to this promise very strictly. And it works, I feel refreshed. I have even rediscovered old-new feelings. Especially one that is called "love" and that will make my heart break very very soon...
Friday, December 21, 2007
Honestly ok
19th December 2007 - 28 degrees during daytime. Today is a public holiday. Less than 1 week to Christmas. Most companies have closed for holidays by last week Friday, the rest is closing by this Friday. The streets are getting empty, especially in the mornings - instead of the big morning crowd that is usually there from 7.30am on the streets, now everything is quiet. The town seems to be waking up by around 10-11am, which is really unusual for me.
Though during daytime the noise is getting a bit bigger. Street campaigns are still going for the upcoming elections. I'm really curious about the outcome of this event. I've experienced so much discussions and disputes between the supporters of the 2 main parties (PNU and ODM Kenya), heard all pros and contras for both the presidential candidates (the current president, Mwai Kibaki and Raila Odinga) - me I just can't decide, I haven't lived enough in this country for being able to see the whole picture, but it's quite interesting.
I've got some e-mails from the Embassy of Hungary recently, that us, Hungarians shouldn't worry, the preparations for elections are going on in a calm way so far, though we should watch out and take care, cos tribal conflicts can arise any time. Well, I'm not afraid at all to be honest. I was told earlier that December will be crazy because of the elections, and no going out alone after 8pm - but everything is calm and quiet. Much more, at least in Nairobi, than it was before during the last few months. And don't worry, am still not moving alone anywhere after 9pm, as usual.
I feel so strange. I don't feel Christmas time at all yet. I've been invited to Audi's family to celebrate with them, it'll be really interesting. I'm looking forward to it.
Tho I was thinking a lot what to do during the holidays... The basic idea was to get out of Nairobi, and see some other parts of the country. Especially the coast - Malindi, Lamu or Mombasa. This idea is still not thrown away, I think I'll celebrate New Year's Eve somewhere there. At least I really hope so! And till that time I wanna discover a bit more of Nairobi. I have a long list that I got in Eldoret in October, I want to start with that one. And I've just checked a few more options from my Lonely Planet guide as well (hehe, Kristian, I've found the book, thanks a lot!!!). So I think it'll work well.
Imagine what experience I had last week - I was given a lift by Jonson, by motorbike! We spent the whole day at Nazarene University together, and when he was about to get back to town, he offered this opportunity. Huha, first I was a bit scared, but I thought opportunities come and go, and I shouldn't miss this experience. And I enjoyed it sooooo much, it's much more fun than going by bus!!!
Then on Sunday, as I was having a polite, quiet day, I decided to taste a bit of the equatorial sunshine - the result of that is now a red body, with some white patches (that was the shadow of my book)... whoooa, and it was only 30 minutes!
Africa eee, AfroXLDS aaa. Vicki eee, I've got selected as a faci aaa :-D I'm sooo happy!!! A big dream coming true, my first big international conference as faci, and in additional in a team like wow! I'm facilitating again with Alexa from Tanzania!!! (If everything goes well, by March 2008 it'll be our 3rd faci experience together.) I can't wait, I'm so excited.And meanwhile, I've also applied for NLDS in Tanzania, that'll happen in February 2008 - just a month before AfroXLDS -, I hope I will make it. I so much love facilitating at conferences, that's one of the most powerful experiences that one can have in AIESEC.
Today was the first time I went to cinema here in Nairobi. I wanted to spend by day with chilling and doing nothing, and also I wanted to spend some time with Audi, cos during the last few days I gave him a hard time handling me - I was in a very bad mood and he was the one around me... So finally we went for a beer, then watched "The Kingdom", then went for another beer.
I feel much better now. No worries, everything will be alright. Hakuna matata. Take a beer. Then a deep breath. Then smile and start enjoying.
Though during daytime the noise is getting a bit bigger. Street campaigns are still going for the upcoming elections. I'm really curious about the outcome of this event. I've experienced so much discussions and disputes between the supporters of the 2 main parties (PNU and ODM Kenya), heard all pros and contras for both the presidential candidates (the current president, Mwai Kibaki and Raila Odinga) - me I just can't decide, I haven't lived enough in this country for being able to see the whole picture, but it's quite interesting.
I've got some e-mails from the Embassy of Hungary recently, that us, Hungarians shouldn't worry, the preparations for elections are going on in a calm way so far, though we should watch out and take care, cos tribal conflicts can arise any time. Well, I'm not afraid at all to be honest. I was told earlier that December will be crazy because of the elections, and no going out alone after 8pm - but everything is calm and quiet. Much more, at least in Nairobi, than it was before during the last few months. And don't worry, am still not moving alone anywhere after 9pm, as usual.
I feel so strange. I don't feel Christmas time at all yet. I've been invited to Audi's family to celebrate with them, it'll be really interesting. I'm looking forward to it.
Tho I was thinking a lot what to do during the holidays... The basic idea was to get out of Nairobi, and see some other parts of the country. Especially the coast - Malindi, Lamu or Mombasa. This idea is still not thrown away, I think I'll celebrate New Year's Eve somewhere there. At least I really hope so! And till that time I wanna discover a bit more of Nairobi. I have a long list that I got in Eldoret in October, I want to start with that one. And I've just checked a few more options from my Lonely Planet guide as well (hehe, Kristian, I've found the book, thanks a lot!!!). So I think it'll work well.
Imagine what experience I had last week - I was given a lift by Jonson, by motorbike! We spent the whole day at Nazarene University together, and when he was about to get back to town, he offered this opportunity. Huha, first I was a bit scared, but I thought opportunities come and go, and I shouldn't miss this experience. And I enjoyed it sooooo much, it's much more fun than going by bus!!!
Then on Sunday, as I was having a polite, quiet day, I decided to taste a bit of the equatorial sunshine - the result of that is now a red body, with some white patches (that was the shadow of my book)... whoooa, and it was only 30 minutes!
Africa eee, AfroXLDS aaa. Vicki eee, I've got selected as a faci aaa :-D I'm sooo happy!!! A big dream coming true, my first big international conference as faci, and in additional in a team like wow! I'm facilitating again with Alexa from Tanzania!!! (If everything goes well, by March 2008 it'll be our 3rd faci experience together.) I can't wait, I'm so excited.And meanwhile, I've also applied for NLDS in Tanzania, that'll happen in February 2008 - just a month before AfroXLDS -, I hope I will make it. I so much love facilitating at conferences, that's one of the most powerful experiences that one can have in AIESEC.
Today was the first time I went to cinema here in Nairobi. I wanted to spend by day with chilling and doing nothing, and also I wanted to spend some time with Audi, cos during the last few days I gave him a hard time handling me - I was in a very bad mood and he was the one around me... So finally we went for a beer, then watched "The Kingdom", then went for another beer.
I feel much better now. No worries, everything will be alright. Hakuna matata. Take a beer. Then a deep breath. Then smile and start enjoying.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Me, myself and I
Going on with the impressions from when I last stopped writing... since then we had an MC cooking night, Phil has left for Global Steering Team in Rotterdam, we had a Cultural Preparation Seminar, a review for EB candidates at LC Strathmore, and a fairly interesting Sunday. Meanwhile the world has turned upside down with me.
First of all, this last week of mine was not a planned one at all. I've just realized, I love randomness. All what was happening was a product of the moment, which made me not expect anything, just enjoy the situation. And I had to enjoy, no other choices.
Shivo called me on one of the days last week. I haven't talked with him for several months now, I think since August. He left for his internship in SA in July for half a year - he's coming home in a few days. It was good to hear his voice. I was laughing when he told me: "Vicki, don't be a stranger." I'll see him in 2 weeks time.
I've learnt how to cook ugali!!! And not just ugali, but also beef stew. I can't wait to see my mum going crazy when my naughty children are eating ugali and beef stew with their hands, in her kitchen, hahahaaa :-) Though for this I have to wait a few more years, but it makes me smile whenever I think about it!
I think I haven't been out so much in a week's time since I'm in Kenya like now - the Sunday before, Monday, Thursday, Saturday, last Sunday ... Hangover and me are getting to know each other quite much by now, omg. Anyways, at least I've had nice random chats with many many people. Especially Saturday evening was very interesting, I was hanging out with 2 guys, Nick and Matthew, from Resource Associates (our National Talent Management Partner). Wow.
Oh, let me say a word for some alumni who have got me out of a big challenge this week - Alex, Bene and Jonson. I don't know if you guys read these lines or not, but THANK YOU!!!
Btw, recently I've met quite many alumni for longer chats. Martin, Patrick, Alex, Jonson, Bene, Rony, Timo... It's always very refreshing, energizing and thoughtful talking with them. I cannot even find the right words. I'm just really really greatful for having them around. Hehe, when I asked Rony about how has been his life in marriage since September (remember, I was at his wedding), he told me: "If I knew before it is so good, honestly, I would do it earlier!" So lovely.
I've been through a very deep self-discovery. I have redefined my values, my vision, my long-term goals, and I have decided about my next term as well. I've been impressed a lot by those recent discussions. I feel released now, the big dilemma about my future has been solved.
On Sunday I met Nash for a drink. He told me he is planning to go to the coast for the holidays, and lets go together, I must see that part of Kenya as well. I said alright, why not? Sounds to be a nice plan, especially celebrating Christmas on the beach, haha!
My Monday was boring and painful. I was fighting with the new IS system of AIESEC. Well, the system has won the battle - but not the war! I have to be better, I have to teach my teams using it. Anyways. I was alone in the office, talking to my laptop all day, it was not that much fun. Lets see how the week goes on.
First of all, this last week of mine was not a planned one at all. I've just realized, I love randomness. All what was happening was a product of the moment, which made me not expect anything, just enjoy the situation. And I had to enjoy, no other choices.
Shivo called me on one of the days last week. I haven't talked with him for several months now, I think since August. He left for his internship in SA in July for half a year - he's coming home in a few days. It was good to hear his voice. I was laughing when he told me: "Vicki, don't be a stranger." I'll see him in 2 weeks time.
I've learnt how to cook ugali!!! And not just ugali, but also beef stew. I can't wait to see my mum going crazy when my naughty children are eating ugali and beef stew with their hands, in her kitchen, hahahaaa :-) Though for this I have to wait a few more years, but it makes me smile whenever I think about it!
I think I haven't been out so much in a week's time since I'm in Kenya like now - the Sunday before, Monday, Thursday, Saturday, last Sunday ... Hangover and me are getting to know each other quite much by now, omg. Anyways, at least I've had nice random chats with many many people. Especially Saturday evening was very interesting, I was hanging out with 2 guys, Nick and Matthew, from Resource Associates (our National Talent Management Partner). Wow.
Oh, let me say a word for some alumni who have got me out of a big challenge this week - Alex, Bene and Jonson. I don't know if you guys read these lines or not, but THANK YOU!!!
Btw, recently I've met quite many alumni for longer chats. Martin, Patrick, Alex, Jonson, Bene, Rony, Timo... It's always very refreshing, energizing and thoughtful talking with them. I cannot even find the right words. I'm just really really greatful for having them around. Hehe, when I asked Rony about how has been his life in marriage since September (remember, I was at his wedding), he told me: "If I knew before it is so good, honestly, I would do it earlier!" So lovely.
I've been through a very deep self-discovery. I have redefined my values, my vision, my long-term goals, and I have decided about my next term as well. I've been impressed a lot by those recent discussions. I feel released now, the big dilemma about my future has been solved.
On Sunday I met Nash for a drink. He told me he is planning to go to the coast for the holidays, and lets go together, I must see that part of Kenya as well. I said alright, why not? Sounds to be a nice plan, especially celebrating Christmas on the beach, haha!
My Monday was boring and painful. I was fighting with the new IS system of AIESEC. Well, the system has won the battle - but not the war! I have to be better, I have to teach my teams using it. Anyways. I was alone in the office, talking to my laptop all day, it was not that much fun. Lets see how the week goes on.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Let the sunshine in
Since Saturday... eh, I didn't think that much things would happen! When I last wrote a post, I thought that's the end of the week, I'd have a lazy day mamaing the MC candidates during the reviews and that's it. Haha, I'm happy - I was wrong!
First of all, mamaing the candidates was a big fun - despite the fact that I had to be in town by 8am -, I really enjoyed my time with those guys. There were 5 of them, Leah, Emma, Lucy, Mutembei and Godi. And of course the panel members: Phil, Alex Mungai, Ken Ben, Martin Muhiu, Patrick, Nick, and Sieka. These men, haha, they are fantastic, having such a good sense of humour!
While they were grilling those poor candidates one by one, we were sharing mad stories with the others, and enjoying the sunshine on the grass of USIU (United States International University of Africa) - Emma was so lovely, she said: "I knew it's nice but I didn't think it's so pink!"
The interesting thing was that at the same time AIESEC in Hungary also had their reviews for MC aspirants - Zsófi was calling me for some support -, but I think we enjoyed ours much better, haha!
Then, in the afternoon we decided we go for lunch together (btw it was 3.30pm at this time) - Ken Ben was the lucky one having all the girls in his car. We first went to Nakumatt Lifestyle, but as it was so expensive, Martin wanted to convince all about going to Bufe Park for nyama choma - but that would take another hour at least and we were dying of hunger. So we ended up at Lifestyle (opposite to Nakumatt), eating, drinking and talking about politics for like 2-3 hours.
I think I've forgot to tell one thing recently - it's elections' time here in Kenya, which brings loads and loads of discussions and disputes about politics on the table. Usually I enjoy it a lot! I can get a deep insight in what's been happening in Kenya in the last many many years, and how Kenyan's see their present and future, etc.I won't go now deeper in the situation, parties and so, but I have to tell I'm extremely excited and happy that I can be in Kenya for the elections and see how it will form Kenya for the next few years!
So after we had this emotion-filled discussion - Nick, Phil and Godi on one side, Martin, Patrick, Leah, Mutembei and Lucy on the other, and me the one and only neutral - we decided to go for a pint somewhere. So Patrick took us to Zipp, but finally it was only him and me staying there and talking and talking and talking... I ended up arriving home at 11pm. He planted a few interesting ideas in my head.
Then Monday was even more interesting. We had a BoA (Board of Advisors) meeting from 2.30pm at Haco Industries. Finally we had there 4 of our BoA members, Polycarp of course (CEO of Haco), Ken Kinyua (Housing Finance), Ken Kariuki (EABL) and Bernice (PWC). The meeting itself was great, like usual, I love those people so much for their feedbacks, and also for their passion and commitment towards what we do as AIESEC Kenya. And they were very happy about us for some improvements we had had, which made me really proud.
Sooo the highlight of the day: visiting the factories of Haco Industries!!! Some important things about them: they're producing stationary (especially pens), razors, cleaning chemicals (washing gels, etc) and beauty products, and they are market leaders with many of their products in Kenya, and also in Africa. So our small group, Charlies Angels and our BoA, we had the chance to learn about how pens are produced, razors, chemicals, everything! I was so amazed, wow! This definitely IS a reason why it worth being in MC :-)
After all this Ken Kinyua drove us back to town - it was an interestingly long trip, because of the afternoon traffic, we were driving through districts of Nairobi I've never seen before. Mutaiga for example, where you cannot find a house below 65 million ksh! (That's 195 million huf.)
Otherwise, it was Juliet's bonding event, so she invited the team for a mbuzi fry. It was such a nice evening. We were discussing about the past and future of Kenya, I learnt so much. And the discussion about what would happen if Africa closed borders for everyone except from other African countries - how that would affect the economies in Africa, especially in Kenya, and what role Kenya would have in that case... Food for thought, it's really interesting to think about this as an option.
And this is not the end of my thoughtful and impactful 3 days! Today I had a meeting with Alex, one of our alumni. He will facilitate at Cultural Preparation Seminar this weekend, and we needed to discuss, as I was in quite a big trouble (instead of having 5 facis and 30 delegates, I'll have 3 facis and 60 delegates) and I needed his help. So I went there to his office - have I told he works at Microsoft...? :-) After solving all my issues, we decided to walk down to town instead of using a bus. I asked him to tell me about his job and the company culture. I've got so much points to think about! I've just realized that I can realize all my dreams working at a company, and that way I can avoid all the burocratic and problematic organizations like EU and UN! And I don't even need to have 5 masters degrees and stuff for that. I just have to find the right companies - and there I actually can have much more interesting jobs even then at any of those organizations I was dreaming about before. Sounds cool, doesn't it?
So now it's after midnight, but I'm still energized, inspired and I'm still processing all the thoughts and learning points I've got during the last few days. I'm step by step closer to what I really want, and I have never thought this process will be so fast. I think I'm so lucky for this experience I've been having in Kenya.
First of all, mamaing the candidates was a big fun - despite the fact that I had to be in town by 8am -, I really enjoyed my time with those guys. There were 5 of them, Leah, Emma, Lucy, Mutembei and Godi. And of course the panel members: Phil, Alex Mungai, Ken Ben, Martin Muhiu, Patrick, Nick, and Sieka. These men, haha, they are fantastic, having such a good sense of humour!
While they were grilling those poor candidates one by one, we were sharing mad stories with the others, and enjoying the sunshine on the grass of USIU (United States International University of Africa) - Emma was so lovely, she said: "I knew it's nice but I didn't think it's so pink!"
The interesting thing was that at the same time AIESEC in Hungary also had their reviews for MC aspirants - Zsófi was calling me for some support -, but I think we enjoyed ours much better, haha!
Then, in the afternoon we decided we go for lunch together (btw it was 3.30pm at this time) - Ken Ben was the lucky one having all the girls in his car. We first went to Nakumatt Lifestyle, but as it was so expensive, Martin wanted to convince all about going to Bufe Park for nyama choma - but that would take another hour at least and we were dying of hunger. So we ended up at Lifestyle (opposite to Nakumatt), eating, drinking and talking about politics for like 2-3 hours.
I think I've forgot to tell one thing recently - it's elections' time here in Kenya, which brings loads and loads of discussions and disputes about politics on the table. Usually I enjoy it a lot! I can get a deep insight in what's been happening in Kenya in the last many many years, and how Kenyan's see their present and future, etc.I won't go now deeper in the situation, parties and so, but I have to tell I'm extremely excited and happy that I can be in Kenya for the elections and see how it will form Kenya for the next few years!
So after we had this emotion-filled discussion - Nick, Phil and Godi on one side, Martin, Patrick, Leah, Mutembei and Lucy on the other, and me the one and only neutral - we decided to go for a pint somewhere. So Patrick took us to Zipp, but finally it was only him and me staying there and talking and talking and talking... I ended up arriving home at 11pm. He planted a few interesting ideas in my head.
Then Monday was even more interesting. We had a BoA (Board of Advisors) meeting from 2.30pm at Haco Industries. Finally we had there 4 of our BoA members, Polycarp of course (CEO of Haco), Ken Kinyua (Housing Finance), Ken Kariuki (EABL) and Bernice (PWC). The meeting itself was great, like usual, I love those people so much for their feedbacks, and also for their passion and commitment towards what we do as AIESEC Kenya. And they were very happy about us for some improvements we had had, which made me really proud.
Sooo the highlight of the day: visiting the factories of Haco Industries!!! Some important things about them: they're producing stationary (especially pens), razors, cleaning chemicals (washing gels, etc) and beauty products, and they are market leaders with many of their products in Kenya, and also in Africa. So our small group, Charlies Angels and our BoA, we had the chance to learn about how pens are produced, razors, chemicals, everything! I was so amazed, wow! This definitely IS a reason why it worth being in MC :-)
After all this Ken Kinyua drove us back to town - it was an interestingly long trip, because of the afternoon traffic, we were driving through districts of Nairobi I've never seen before. Mutaiga for example, where you cannot find a house below 65 million ksh! (That's 195 million huf.)
Otherwise, it was Juliet's bonding event, so she invited the team for a mbuzi fry. It was such a nice evening. We were discussing about the past and future of Kenya, I learnt so much. And the discussion about what would happen if Africa closed borders for everyone except from other African countries - how that would affect the economies in Africa, especially in Kenya, and what role Kenya would have in that case... Food for thought, it's really interesting to think about this as an option.
And this is not the end of my thoughtful and impactful 3 days! Today I had a meeting with Alex, one of our alumni. He will facilitate at Cultural Preparation Seminar this weekend, and we needed to discuss, as I was in quite a big trouble (instead of having 5 facis and 30 delegates, I'll have 3 facis and 60 delegates) and I needed his help. So I went there to his office - have I told he works at Microsoft...? :-) After solving all my issues, we decided to walk down to town instead of using a bus. I asked him to tell me about his job and the company culture. I've got so much points to think about! I've just realized that I can realize all my dreams working at a company, and that way I can avoid all the burocratic and problematic organizations like EU and UN! And I don't even need to have 5 masters degrees and stuff for that. I just have to find the right companies - and there I actually can have much more interesting jobs even then at any of those organizations I was dreaming about before. Sounds cool, doesn't it?
So now it's after midnight, but I'm still energized, inspired and I'm still processing all the thoughts and learning points I've got during the last few days. I'm step by step closer to what I really want, and I have never thought this process will be so fast. I think I'm so lucky for this experience I've been having in Kenya.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Don't stop me now
1st December 2007
How can I be so exhausted and so energized at the same time? I don't even understand, but if someone can explain this to me, well, I'd really appreciate it. You should see my desk in the office, and also the desktop of my laptop - post-it notes everywhere, task lists, timelines for meetings... I think I've never had such a number of post-in notes (both physical and digital) as in the past few weeks!
But this mess and rush is what I enjoy, I don't even want to give you a sense of complaining cos I feel so good! I just love times like this - I just realized not long ago that if the world is not turning upside down and everything is "normal" for a longer while, I need to create my own mess, otherwise I get bored. Come on, that's what makes life exciting!
Anyways. There's really a lot to do nowadays, and by these weeks I've started to see the results of all the work done so far this term. I'm happy and satisfied. And excited! And this keeps me energized, makes me go on. Honestly, I don't know how I do that, but I can wake up now early in the morning, after less and less sleep, to go to the office, or for meetings - and recently I was in time in almost every case! Something magic must be happening.
During the past 2 weeks I've started some new projects - I needed to develop some new approaches towards certain things, cos the old and usual ways were simply not working. Restructuring my team of local VPs, pushing exchanges to happen, I am AIESEC addict campaign... and my favourite one (cos this is personal), Discovering Kenya project. This one is about pushing my focus from work-work-work to work-work-discover - as I mentioned earlier, I haven't seen Kenya so far! And lucky me, I have cool partners in this project, Melissa and Emma.
Though so far I'm not really satisfied with my own performance, cos I was planning to go for a wedding today and a Nairobi trip tomorrow - but I've been working both days. I'm sad especially because of the wedding. It was Joram's one, and I really wanted to go, but I had to go for a company meeting, which lasted much longer than I expected it. I have to set clear standards for myself to follow up and measure this project. (Don't laugh, I know I'm an AIESECer! :-))
Oh, btw, I have to tell you, I've just realized this week as I was rushing from one point of town to the other, that I'm actually more and more comfortable with finding my way within Nairobi! It's a really cool feeling, when someone tells me once how I can get from here to there, and I'm not getting lost at all by now.
I realized one thing not long ago: the typical "touristical" descriptions are totally missing from my blog posts. I mean all those things that people used to mention as differences, shocks, nini nini. I was thinking that maybe once I would write a post full of these things, but I rather propose to everyone who's interested to buy the Kenya guide from Lonely Planet - I must say I definitely don't agree with the writers on certain points (I just have to think they didn't spend enough time in the country) but all in all it's quite a good description.
You know I could write about the Kenyan way of building better roads, for instance, but as long as you don't see and experience it yourself, it won't make sense at all. Though for me it's a daily challenge, especially the dark Marcus Garvey road, in rain and in high-heel shoes, hahaha...
Ok, I think that's it for today. I have started to write so as to take a small break in work, but now it's past 11pm, I need to go to sleep soon (though I'm pretty sure I'll find something to do in the next 10 minutes and I'll go to sleep at around 1am again). Anyways, tomorrow I have to wake up early, to get to USIU by 9am.
How can I be so exhausted and so energized at the same time? I don't even understand, but if someone can explain this to me, well, I'd really appreciate it. You should see my desk in the office, and also the desktop of my laptop - post-it notes everywhere, task lists, timelines for meetings... I think I've never had such a number of post-in notes (both physical and digital) as in the past few weeks!
But this mess and rush is what I enjoy, I don't even want to give you a sense of complaining cos I feel so good! I just love times like this - I just realized not long ago that if the world is not turning upside down and everything is "normal" for a longer while, I need to create my own mess, otherwise I get bored. Come on, that's what makes life exciting!
Anyways. There's really a lot to do nowadays, and by these weeks I've started to see the results of all the work done so far this term. I'm happy and satisfied. And excited! And this keeps me energized, makes me go on. Honestly, I don't know how I do that, but I can wake up now early in the morning, after less and less sleep, to go to the office, or for meetings - and recently I was in time in almost every case! Something magic must be happening.
During the past 2 weeks I've started some new projects - I needed to develop some new approaches towards certain things, cos the old and usual ways were simply not working. Restructuring my team of local VPs, pushing exchanges to happen, I am AIESEC addict campaign... and my favourite one (cos this is personal), Discovering Kenya project. This one is about pushing my focus from work-work-work to work-work-discover - as I mentioned earlier, I haven't seen Kenya so far! And lucky me, I have cool partners in this project, Melissa and Emma.
Though so far I'm not really satisfied with my own performance, cos I was planning to go for a wedding today and a Nairobi trip tomorrow - but I've been working both days. I'm sad especially because of the wedding. It was Joram's one, and I really wanted to go, but I had to go for a company meeting, which lasted much longer than I expected it. I have to set clear standards for myself to follow up and measure this project. (Don't laugh, I know I'm an AIESECer! :-))
Oh, btw, I have to tell you, I've just realized this week as I was rushing from one point of town to the other, that I'm actually more and more comfortable with finding my way within Nairobi! It's a really cool feeling, when someone tells me once how I can get from here to there, and I'm not getting lost at all by now.
I realized one thing not long ago: the typical "touristical" descriptions are totally missing from my blog posts. I mean all those things that people used to mention as differences, shocks, nini nini. I was thinking that maybe once I would write a post full of these things, but I rather propose to everyone who's interested to buy the Kenya guide from Lonely Planet - I must say I definitely don't agree with the writers on certain points (I just have to think they didn't spend enough time in the country) but all in all it's quite a good description.
You know I could write about the Kenyan way of building better roads, for instance, but as long as you don't see and experience it yourself, it won't make sense at all. Though for me it's a daily challenge, especially the dark Marcus Garvey road, in rain and in high-heel shoes, hahaha...
Ok, I think that's it for today. I have started to write so as to take a small break in work, but now it's past 11pm, I need to go to sleep soon (though I'm pretty sure I'll find something to do in the next 10 minutes and I'll go to sleep at around 1am again). Anyways, tomorrow I have to wake up early, to get to USIU by 9am.
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