We are now seeing an increase in domestic violence. These close-knit quarters are very vulnerable, and it is unimaginable to think about the spread of the Corona Virus in such communities.Īnother growing concern is the lock-down policy put in place by the Kenyan government to flatten the curve has also proven harmful for women, especially. In these communities, the risk of infectious diseases is high, and the need for continuous health education and mobilization is critical for survival. Most local artisans in Kenya live and create livelihood opportunities for their families in small compact spaces and cannot afford the luxury of social distancing. This global pandemic has forced the entire world to shift, standstill, and pause for what feels like an eternity. With almost every day looking like yesterday and all of us trying to cope with the new normal of working, teaching, and learning, spending extra time with loved ones at home, I can’t help but think about vulnerable communities. Today over 3 million people are infected with Corona Virus globally and over 230K related deaths.
Being aware of these concerns, meant that as a social entrepreneur, creating a business model that supports ethical, fair trade and a safe working environment is just as important as making a profit. My Public Health training also made me aware of the environmental and health risk factors associated with close compact communities. Not many, but a few to conclude that progress is slow but consistent. I took stock of how many women artisans owned stalls in this diverse business district. In what I can only describe as organized chaos.Īn impressive system of multiple workshops crowded together I watched artisans create, taking scrap metals, upcycle materials, bone pieces, and turning them into designs fit for royalties. So, it was not surprising at all, on a sunny day in Nairobi, to find myself standing in an ally, a familiar environment, marveling at the ingenuity of artisans. This was my exciting childhood and my experiences growing up in Liberia will forever serve as a reminder of the dire needs of under-served communities.
Women knowing my mother was a nurse, came with their sick children looking for help or a ride to the hospital. For them, to whom much is given, much is required, and that meant we had an open-door policy.Įveryone in the community came knocking for assistance. My parents never shielded us from the hardships of life. I learned to build a fire using firewood in Toma’s grandmother's makeshift kitchen. Toma had lots of chores, so to go off running around with me, I had to help her get her work done. My “yard friend,” as the phrase goes in Liberia, lived with her grandmother.
I remember many days growing up in Liberia I used to run between zinc houses, playing carefree with kids in the neighborhood. Supporting Local Artisans In Nairobi Kenya
0 kommentar(er)
