This past weekend was great, I am actually still recovering from Thanksgiving overload... turkey, stuffing, squash, asparagus, potatoes... and of course pumpkin pie. I had a great time, and the food was delicious, but I really can't help but think of those that I know in Kenya.
As I have mentioned before, and you may have heard on the news, Kenya (and most of Sub-Saharan Africa) is dealing with drought... serious drought. Now drought in this case doesn't mean that it is not raining at all, it rained from time to time throughout the typical rainy season. However, the rains were not even comparable to what is necessary to grow enough crops to sustain a family, let alone yield enough to sell and create income for a household.
This situation is reaching a very critical point. Because of this, the cost of food has skyrocketed making it nearly impossible for most families to meet nutritional requirements. Cows, goats, and sheep are not getting enough to eat, they cannot be sold, so the farmers cannot generate income for their families. Mamas and young girls are forced to walk further and further in search of dirty rivers and hopeful springs... without much luck.
So you can understand why it is hard to be in Canada. A place where we turn the tap, and water is there. Where I open the fridge and ponder what I should eat next. A place where I know I will not go to bed hungry.
Just as I was leaving Kenya, the organization I work for had begun to drill bore holes (deeeeeep wells) to serve the communities where we work. They had successfully hit water at two sites by that time and were continuing the projects while we are away... This is a HUGE step towards proper sanitation and health while the drought runs its course.
Anyway, when I hear how those wells are going, I will let you know.
Just a bit of insight into what being back in Canada is like.
until next time :)
