Changing history before our eyes

Parents at the Naikarra School opening enjoying their turn at sitting in the new school!

I have had the amazing opportunity to live in Kenya for the better part of the last decade, and over that time I’ve seen how quickly the country has changed. In addition to seeing two political elections, the Maasai and Kipsigi communities within the Narok South district of Kenya have seen massive changes in the last 10 years. With the support of young people across North America who have taken part in Free The Children’s Youth In Action Groups Narok South has seen the building of dozens of schools, as well as libraries, a community centre, water projects and latrines impacting thousands of children and their families.

But even though these amazing accomplishments have made a huge impact on the lives of our Kenyan peers, there are still many issues facing the Maasai and Kipsigi communities, such as the failure of crops or the need for better health care systems. The atrocities that plague rural Kenyans, such as female circumcision, child labour and disease from unpurified water, all stem from a lack of education.

Students and Mamas listening to a local elder advise on the importance of education

When I was in school I learned history, but here in the Mara, the community members are making history by actively educating themselves to create a future of possibility. 

Women gather on Saturday mornings to learn financial literacy before going to the market to buy the week’s groceries. Men come together to learn their basic human rights before bringing their herd of cattle home for the day. Focus groups discuss how early marriage for their daughters can negatively affect their future.

The history of Kenya is evolving before our very eyes and I have been so lucky to play an active part in it. Join me and the many amazing youth out there who are helping to make a positive impact on the continent of Africa and get involved in Adopt a Village today! 

Robin Wiszowaty
Kenya Country Office Director 

Helpful Hints from Helpful Links

Learn more about the recent elections in Kenya
Read more about Free The Children projects in Kenya

Free The Children is the largest network of children helping children through education in the world, with more than one million youth involved in our innovative education and development programs in 45 countries. Founded by international child rights activist Craig Kielburger, Free The Children has an established track-record of success, with three nominations for the Nobel Peace Prize and partnerships with the United Nations and Oprah’s Angel Network.