Why Leaving Kenya Was So Difficult
So there you have it, I was under the spell of Africa. It is not just the spell of Africa, but the spell of the ONE campaign and the ONE Moms as well. I could see something much bigger happening than government funded programs at work. I could see Africa “coming alive” and the rest of the world coming together from all walks of life to give their voice for the beautiful people that we were meeting. What resonated with me was that the US Government funded programs were only the catalyst for change. Once these communities were given the tools they needed to improve the lives and living conditions surrounding them, they were motivated and inspired to be involved and take action. The community health counselors, village reporters, TB ambassadors, Kenyan entrepreneurs, Binti Pamoja graduates, and farmers spoke articulately and with confidence, goals for their communities. They are all “living proof” that smart aid is working. The momentum and motivation is there and we must continue to keep these programs viable and strong. With one in 19 babies still dying before their first birthday the funding must continue. The Nyanza Province of Kenya is the most densely populated area of HIV/AIDS in the country and is the center for research for not only HIV/AIDS, but Malaria, TB, and tropical diseases. The possibilities to be found here will be world changing!
Coming Alive 
Would love to experience the magic first hand one day but for now I am glad I get to experience it through you!
Thank you for the comment. I am happy I could give you the "virtual" experience. I hope my words have inspired you to become a ONE member and give your voice! I can also tell you that last year at this moment in the summer I would have NEVER imagined myself in Kenya this year. I have learned that it is true-your life can change paths in an instant. I am so grateful to be a voice for all of the moms that I met and the many more who want a better world for their kids, just as I do.
I am feeling a bit jealous, reading this. My daughter's father is Nigerian. We hope to travel there someday, to experience the magic of Africa. Thanks for posting! I am looking forward to reading the rest of the posts.