By Turk Pipkin | Founder, The Nobelity Project
It's really getting exciting in Mahiga! Christy and I are back from a work and planning trip and have lots to report. The Classroom and Libraries Building has reached its full height and is completely roofed. Windows and rails have even been completed since I took the photo below. Likewise for the lower sidewalk and grading around the building.
Just across the way, the new kitchen is really gorgeous - the new high-efficiency wood stoves are and wash sinks and gas piping for the gas stove is not far behind.
AfH Design Fellow Greg Elsner has been joined for the duration of the job by his girlfriend and fellow architect, Christina Tapper. Christina's working with the teachers and community to set up the library and other school functions, and has designed a beautiful new preschool to replace the old building that will be repurposed for our new Principal and admin. Christina's also working with Greg and our Kenyan construction team on the biggest challenge - the RainWater Court. Foundation and stonework is now complete, and the structure is going vertical! Check out the attached pics of the 8 massive columns and the temporary Eucalyptus pole tower that will lift the 500 pound roof trusses into place.
Our 9th and 10th grade classes are doing well with their studies in temp classrooms at the primary school, and we even took them on their first field trip, a visit to the game reservation at the beautiful Aberdare Country Club. Though they live in rural Kenya, these kids at never seen giraffes, zebras and other African game (the animals are in huge reserves and it costs money to get in), so this was tremendously exciting for all of us.
If you ever visit Kenya, don't miss a stay at Aberdare Country Club and the mountaintop game lodge, The Ark. Both have been tremendously supportive of our work, and employ lots of wonderful members of our community.
We're getting close to meeting our overall financial goals for funding construction, but still need your donations and your help in spreading the word! Thanks to everyone for the great things you've already helped us accomplish.
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