Build Skills with the "lost" Youth in Kenya

Dear Rafikis,

First, a word about how the National Emergency in Kenya has impacted the country. In contrast to the alarmist predictions of how the African continent would fare in the face of this pandemic, the results in containing the virus in Kenya have been impressive so far. Though job losses and setbacks increased, the government introduced tax reliefs and health care funds amongst other adjustments. The Kenyan people took the full lockdown extremely seriously. To date, 63 lives were claimed by COVID-19.

Many Kenyans, unlike citizens in industrialized countries, have the ability to return to their rural homes and to switch from city jobs to rural labour for food. So far, so good.

Institutions of higher learning were closed indefinitely on March 20, 2020. Public servants were limited to 4 people in face to face meetings. Webex and Zoom Apps served the administration of the schools and allowed Board member meetings. However, these platforms have not been put to use for virtual learning at this point. In view of the full operational closure of the schools, both of our institutions have nevertheless remained impressively active.

 *Biodigester: a type of sceptic tank, but unlike a tradutional sceptic tank, this new technology allows solid waste to be eaten by microorganisms and provides reusable water for gardening