In the heart of Nairobi’s second largest slum, St. Lazarus School rises from the rubbish strewn streets. We begin our steep and bumpy ascent into Kibera. It’s rush hour and people by the hundreds stream toward downtown Nairobi on foot. Vendors along the road set out their wares, mostly fried bean cakes and vegetables, to sell to the commuters.

MODERN MEETS MALNOURISHED
A woman and child sleeping alongside the road wake and begin to stir. Behind them an advertisement asks, “How are your stocks doing?” It’s the contrast that strikes you, the juxtaposition of Wall Street, the Ying-Yang Twins, cell phone companies, churches, mortuaries and malnourishment. The air is muggy and thick. Heavy clouds loom with the promise of much-needed rain. As we crest the hill, you can see the vastness of the slum. It’s overwhelming. Read the rest of this entry »