The Olng’arua School is undoubtedly a much quieter place than it was before all schools had to close as part of Kenya’s covid-19 strategy. It is not devoid of activity though. Resident staff members are still living and working at the school, as are two of our older school boys who board at the school. The conservation work continues, and though there are currently no tourists, projects that help provide income for the school still need to be managed, especially the riding camels who need regular exercising and care.
Helping community members with handwashing tanks and soap
We maintain contact with all the families linked to the school and continue our support for those with specific problems and needs. Kitonga has been talking to community members, helping them understand the threat of covid-19 and explaining how social distancing and good hygiene can help slow the spread of the virus. We have also provided hand-washing tanks and soap to help people wash their hands regularly.
Soap supplies for an Olng’arua homestead
The boys who have remained at the school have also been busy, expanding the school vegetable garden. Whether the school gets to reopen next term or not, Olng’arua children will need to supplement the standard local diet of maize with fruit and vegetables if they are to remain healthy. The more of those we can grow ourselves the better, though of course elephants and locust swarms may get the better of that plan.
Manuel and Lekool expanding the school vegtable garden
We don’t yet know how long the schools will be closed for. Then new term was due to start at the beginning of May. If we are unable to reopen we have a plan in place to provide children from the older classes with books and home work so that they can continue their studies at home.
Like everybody during this pandemic we don’t really know what will happen and are adapting as the circumstances dictate. However, as the environment that we live in here in Northern Kenya is always unpredictable, we are probably more accustomed to such uncertain times than most.
Stay safe and well my friends.