VSO Kenya - Ithiru - Volunteer Blog: Coast Visit Part 2

Kilifi is further south down the coast from Watamu and about an hour on a matatu. I was there to photograph the ICS volunteers in action. They had a workshop on the Friday where they discussed domestic violence and gender roles. With the many different cultures there were some interesting views. Luckily the group had been together for over 2 months by then and had a greater understanding of each others cultures so, whilst they might not agree with some of the views expressed they did respect each others culture. We met at the Kilifi Club which was a great venue overlooking the estuary with reasonably priced food. Recommended if you want to eat/drink and escape the heat and bustle of Kilifi..

Enjoying the debate

The Kalifi ICS Team

The boys giving Majina a lift

Carl being carried by the girls and loving it!

After the workshop there was a community meeting to agree the final details for a Disability awareness day on the Saturday. The meeting was held under the fading sun in the shade of a tree. Very cool!!

Carl and Majina the Programme Supervisors

Some of the ICS Volunteers in smart new T-Shirts

Saturday arrived again with heavy rain but as is often the case in Kenya by 9 it had stopped an by 10 everything was dry. The tent was put up, PA system sorted, football pitch and running track marked out and people arrived. The plan was for 4-5 schools for children with disabilities to come and parade around the town, then to demonstrate some poems, singing and drama followed by athletics and football and finally the speeches. The day was well attended and as you can see from the photos below the kids importantly had an amazing time and are an inspiration.

The success of the day is a great complement to the ICS volunteers and the two programme supervisors Majina from Kenya and Carl from England.

Whilst in Kilifi I stayed one night at the Peacock Court Hotel +254725765625 (900 kshs per night) reasonable room but basic hotel. What do you expect for about £7? On the second night I stayed at Water Gate Hotel (+254) 041 7525015 (1000 kshs £8 - bed and breakfast. A much better room and hotel.