I am in Kiserian having lunch with Peninah and Elizabeth. They are keen to talk about Scottish men and in particular what life is like for women in Scotland. Peninah explains the rule in Kenya. “ Men can do what they want, whenever they want and with whoever they want.” Read more…
There are approximately 50 men, women and children in attendance. The family are lined up waiting to greet us. First everyone shakes hands with everyone else. Then the visitors stand opposite the family so that we form two lines. A representative from the family gives a formal greeting, a short Read more…
I had been invited to celebrate the building of a new house for Teacher Nosim’s mum. It was to be held in Ololoroi which was about an hour away on the road to Ngong. There was a group of five of us travelling from school – Teachers Rispa, Laban and Read more…
I was in Kiserian with Peninah and we had some time to kill. Let’s go to the beauty Salon she said. You’ll love it.” I had absolutely no idea what to expect but the philosophy in Africa is Just say yes, so I nodded agreement and off we set. Peninah Read more…
Richard, one of the school governors announced that it was time I graduated from mzungu (white person) to mzungu Maasai (white Maasai) in recognition of all the work that I have done for the school. His plan was simple. His wife, Peninah would take me to Kiserian market where a Read more…
The key year in Primary education in Kenya is Grade 8. There is a national exam at the end of it. A good result guarantees your entry into a good Secondary school, funded by the government. The exam is a bit like the Baccalaureate in that it covers a range Read more…
I had reached the microphone. It was time to give my speech can’t remember exactly what I said but I spoke for 10 minutes. I greeted everyone in Kimaasai, “Enda Sopa Pooki,” then introduced myself in Swahili, Jina langu ni Margaret. Mimi ne mwingereza. (Hello to you all. My name Read more…
Proceedings were kicked off by the MC who invited Milla and close family to join him in a traditional opening dance. It was magnificent! The words, the tone, the ululating and most of all the rhythmic movement were just so Maasai. It just communicated sharing, support, understanding and, above all, Read more…
The Fundraiser – Part 1 In Kenya, there are no free medical services. It costs money to see a doctor, get a prescription, buy medicine or receive treatment. Most people have very little savings or spare cash for emergencies. So when something serious is diagnosed there is no way of Read more…
School Registration at Osiligi Obaya It is my first day back in Osiligi and it is Registration Day. Parents who wish their child to be considered for a sponsored place in the PP1 class in January, must come to the school either today or tomorrow to complete forms. This will Read more…
