CTF-SOS DRS Kenya
Ministry in the Slum of Kibera – Theresia Sinaga – A Personal Reflection
Table of Contents – Summer-Fall 2009 – CTF-SOS DRS Newsletter
It has been seven months now since I came to Nairobi, Kenya. I arrived on April 16, 2009 with Fr. Scott Binet, the Coordinator of the CTF and President of SOS DRS. I have started to learn a little about the people here, the culture, the political situation, the language, etc. One thing that struck me is that in the middle of the big city of Nairobi there is a giant slum. Yes, Kibera is the biggest slum in Nairobi with a population of around 1 million.
I started my work in Kibera on August 20, 2009. We collaborate with Christ of the King (CTK) Parish as a part of a Camillian network working in the slum of Kibera. I am collaborating under the supervision of Sr. Benta who is a Camillian sister from Kenya. Sr. Benta is a nurse by profession. She is working in a small dispensary that CTK has provided. As a member of CTF-SOS DRS I am very happy to have this opportunity. I have had many good experiences. And these came to my mind recently and made me reflect. I would like to share with you “what we can do as CTF-SOS DRS to take work in this slum and as such to do the Lord’s work”.
I remember my first day of work in the slum of Kibera. I attended a women’s group composed of those who are infected by HIV or have AIDS. There were around 15 people. This group meets every Wednesday from 9 AM – 10 AM. They come to the parish to share what they have done in the previous week. They come also to pay back their loans. The parish gave them each a small loan.
The history of this group started last year. Some women came to the Parish who were HIV/AIDS positive. They felt very vulnerable. They shared their problems with a priest of the Guadalupe Fathers. His name was Fr. Pieter. They said they wanted to continue with their lives, but they had been rejected by their families and society because they were HIV/AIDS positive. Many were mothers with children who needed support for schooling. After this sharing Fr. Pieter decided to help them. He gave them some money through the Parish office. Now these people have started small business. And now they are growing. They are able to continue their lives. They are able to pay the school fees for their children.
After I listened to the history of this group I was surprised. I learned how to bring the Lord’s Work to these women. They have been rejected by their families and society because they are HIV/AIDS positive. But they are accepted here at CTK. I remember what Jesus said to St. Camillus “ THIS IS MY WORK NOT YOURS”. I hope we can also do like what Fr. Pieter has done through accepting these women even though they are HIV/AIDS positive. We are all same: we are all human beings. And Lord has created us together.
I had another experience in Kibera when I went to visit some families. We visit families who are sick and vulnerable. They are not able to go to the hospital because they don’t have money. Even to buy food they don’t have money. I remember when I visited a young woman who suffered burns last February. She was very sick and had to be in the hospital for 4 months. But she left because she could not pay the hospital bills. Now she is getting treatment at home from CTK parish. When I visited her the young woman was happy. She said “no one likes to visit me. But you have come to visit me. Many thanks for coming”. I was very touched by her words. I pray a lot for her.
I also visited another woman around 65 years old. She just lay in her bed. No one was taking care of her. I went there with a social worker from CTK Parish. The woman said she felt pain throughout her whole body. I took off some of of her clothes and massaged her. The lady could not speak English but instead spoke her native language. After we finished our work the woman was very grateful for our coming and for the massage. She said she had no pain anymore. She was very happy. The woman was laughing. She was very happy, and she asked me to visit her again. The next day I sent this lady some food through the social worker.
I also visited a man who is HIV/AIDS positive. He is blind because of HIV. I went with a lady who is a volunteer. She is a member of the Good Samaritan organization at CTK. We went with some food that I prepared after I heard his story when he was at CTK Parish. The man told us that he knew he was HIV positive in 2004. After he knew he was HIV the man wanted to commit suicide. He was rejected by his family. He said he felt alone. I listened to his story. It was painful for me. I was asking myself why the family and society had rejected him. I asked myself “Where are you Lord? Why did they reject him? This man is a human being”. Many questions came to me. I began to reflect on these. And in my prayers and when I went for mass I started to reflect on these situations.
To be honest, I don’t have the answers. But what I know is that the Lord has granted me many graces. Jesus wants me to be here. He wants me to be with these people who are suffering, who are rejected, who are poor, who are sick. He wants me to be with them to witness to His merciful love. The Lord wants me to show His love by being with them, visiting them, listening to them. Sometimes it is very difficult – very hard – to do it. It is not easy to do the Lord’s Work. But I believe with His support I can do it. I remember what Jesus said – “When I was hungry you fed me, when I was a stranger you received me in your home, when I was naked you gave me clothes, and when I was sick you took care of me, and when I was in prison you visited me” (Matthew 25).
The mission of CTF- SOS DRS is “to witness to the merciful love of Christ for the poor and the sick in word, deed, and sacrament through serving the medical, pastoral, and humanitarian needs of people affected by man-made and natural disasters regardless of race, religion and ethnicity”. Through this personal reflection I would like to encourage all of us to be effective witnesses to the merciful love of Christ through our prayers and actions to those people who are in need, rejected, sick and poor.
Please keep the people I mentioned and those in the slum of Kibera in your prayers.
Thank you,
Theresia Sinaga
CTF-SOS DRS Kenya
Nairobi - 10/31/2009
To support the efforts of Theresia Sinaga and others of CTF-SOS DRS Kenya in the slum of Kibera, Nairobi – click here.
Table of Contents – Summer-Fall 2009 – CTF-SOS DRS Newsletter
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( 6 so far )Serving With CTF-SOS DRS – Eric Dizon – A Personal Reflection
- (L-R) David, Fr. Scott & Eric – in the Philippines
By Fr. Scott Binet and Eric Dizon
I first met Eric Dizon in 2004 while on a medical mission in the Philippines that was sponsored by the Rizal McArthur Memorial Foundation.
This was the beginning of what would become a very fruitful collaboration between yours truly and Eric, the Filipino community in Wisconsin and my Camillian confreres in the Philippines. And that collaboration has to this day helped to promote the mission of the CTF very much. In fact, the largest supporters in the US of the CTF-SOS DRS response to the recent disaster in the Philippines (Typhoon Ketsana) are members of the Filipino community in Wisconsin. And Eric Dizon – a Filipino American – is a member of that community.
This is how Eric and I met. I left Milwaukee in January 2004 and traveled to Honduras for a collaborative medical mission and then to El Salvador to evaluate the local Caritas response to the earthquakes that shook the country in 2001. Then I went to the Philippines to join my fellow Camillian Fr. James Roa MD, MI and several other medical professionals from Milwaukee.
After Celebrating the Eucharist - Rizal McArthur Memorial Foundation (RMMF) Medical Mission - 2004
We then went by bus on a mission that took us to several cities in the Philippines. There we – including Eric, who would soon become a medical student – served the health needs (medical and surgical) of many people. And we also prayed, worshiped, ate and socialized together. There were about 25 of us. This was the beginning of a very fruitful relationship with the Filipino community in both the US and the Philippines.
The fruits of this initial encounter in the Philippines have been many: Members of the Philippine community in Milwaukee included Fr. James Roa MD, MI in their next RMMF mission; They started to give medical supplies and equipment for the work of the Camillians in Calbayog City, Philippines and elsewhere; Eric and I started to find ways to work together for the CTF.
Later that year in December when the 2004 Tsuanmi hit and I was already in Banda Aceh, Indonesia – Eric contacted me and asked if he could help in the relief effort. I consented and Eric flew to Indonesia and helped us for a month. It was a good experience for all concerned as Eric’s ability to work as part of a team and his trustworthiness, intelligence, wit and physical strength made him a very helpful part of the CTF response. After his time in Indonesia Eric returned to the US and continued his studies. Then during 2 subsequent summers he helped us during our MCP parish appeals as we traveled throughout the US. Eric has spoken in Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Michigan, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, to name a few places – a missionary on a new mission! Well, here are Eric’s own words about his experience this last summer.
I flew out to Newark from Milwaukee on a very rainy June 12th but missed my connection to Scranton that night due to inclement weather. Making my way to a local hotel, I spent the night in New Jersey before flying out the following morning.
D’Ann, the CTF-SOS DRS executive assistant, pulled up to the baggage claim area with an affable, urbane priest in tow who introduced himself as Father Francis from Kenya. Loading my bags into the Toyota Sienna Van of SOS DRS, we headed to Our Lady of Victory Parish in Tannersville, Pennsylvania, my first parish of the MCP appeal season and part of the Diocese of Scranton (See Map).
The SOS DRS MCP Appeal Team in Scranton (L to R): Eric, D'Ann, Fr. Scott, Fr. Francis
Our Lady of Victory was a gorgeous church. Constructed with steel, glass, and wooden beams, the architecture was very modern and minimal yet surprisingly warm at the same time. Father Richard, the pastor, helped me lug my bags up to my room in the rectory. Leading me over to the church, he then helped me set up the CTF banners for the mass that evening. After the celebration he took me out to dinner at a local Italian restaurant where he regaled me with stories of his life in the Poconos. Then Fr. Richard showed me around town.
I had several more appeals on Sunday. Afterwards, a parishioner was kind enough to prepare lunch for me at the rectory while I waited for D’Ann to pick me up.
D’Ann arrived that afternoon; we drove over to the Fatima Renewal Center in Dalton, PA where we were later reunited with Father Francis. The facility was HUGE, but there were only four people staying there (myself, D’Ann, Fr. Francis, and a priest on sabbatical). Running in the peaceful mountain woods that evening, I encountered a family of deer. It was surreal…
The next morning D’Ann, Father Francis, and I drove to Canastota, NY to stay for several days at Saint Agatha’s Parish, Fr. Francis’ home away from home in the US. He turned out to be quite the chef (the man was like Wolfgang Puck) and offered us the experience of eating ugali and other Kenyan delicacies. One evening Father Cleophas, the representative in the US of the Diocese of which Fr. Francis is a part (Nakuru – See Map), invited us both to watch his soccer match in Syracuse and to have tea at the rectory afterwards. The following day Francis and I played golf with Fr. Cleophas at a local course. And Cleophas then came returned with us to Canastota to make dinner!
The three of us drove back to the Fatima Renewal Center in Dalton that Thursday where we were reunited with Father Scott who had been making an MCP in South Carolina.
We headed into downtown Scranton the following morning for a meeting and interview at the Office of the Propagation of the Faith at the chancery of the Diocese of Scranton.
Deacon Ed Kelly (seen here between Fr. Francis and yours truly) was kind enough to take us on a tour of the rectory and the church, both of which were achingly beautiful. Delivering Father Scott to a local parish for his appeals, the rest of the team then headed for Ohio.
My parish there was much smaller than that in PA, which meant I only had three appeals that weekend. The parish, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, was in Youngstown (See Map). Father John Madden (not the football coach) took me out to dinner at the Amen Corner after mass that Saturday evening. Celebrating his 23rd anniversary as a priest that Sunday at a steakhouse lunch, we ate and debated whether Jim Brown or Walter Payton was the greatest running back of all time!
On Monday D’Ann, Fr. Francis and I headed back for Canastota via Niagara Falls, NY – spending the remainder of the week at Saint Agatha’s Parish. Another priest from Kenya named Father Chris was there to greet us upon our arrival. And Fr. Cleophas and another Kenyan priest named Father John dropped by one evening to make us dinner. What a deal…ugali again!
The group split up later that week to make appeals. Fathers Francis and Fr. Chris were off to New Orleans, LA to make appeals for their diocese. We dropped them off at the airport in Syracuse, and then D’Ann and I made our way to Newark, NJ; I spent the night at a local hotel. Retrieving Father Scott from a friend’s home in Yonkers the next day, we then dropped him off at JFK Airport in New York City. He was going to attend the CTF-Pastoral Centers 1 Conference in Madrid. I, instead, was off to Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Montclair, NJ.
Greeting me in the rain later that evening, Father Tony Leonelli of OLMC helped me tote my bags into the rectory. The two of us went out for ice cream that night and had an interesting discussion about the differences between life on the East Coast and in the Midwest. We also went out for a lovely dinner with Father Tom. I had five appeals at the parish that weekend. Built in 1939, OLMC was created in the Italian Gothic style (very elegant and timeless).
D’Ann picked me up Sunday afternoon, and we headed for the rectory of Father Greg Uhrig at Saint Luke’s in Plainfield, NJ. We spent the week there, which gave me the opportunity to spend a bit of time in nearby New York City.
I went to Saint Jude’s in Paterson, NJ on the Fourth of July. Father Bob (a die-hard Red Sox fan) was very hospitable and teased me for wearing a (souvenir) Yankees hat. I believe I had 6 appeals at Saint Jude’s even though I was only there for a 24-hour span! Spending a bit of time at Lucky Garden next door, I met some of the rambunctiously friendly locals from the neighborhood.
D’Ann picked me up Sunday afternoon, and we made the long drive back from New Jersey to Wisconsin…uggh!
The following weekend D’Ann and I were off to the Diocese of Dubuque, IA. Assigned to the parish of Saint John the Baptist for three appeals, I stayed in the home of Hal and Sharon Dendurent. They were kind enough to take me to a local festival and concert, which gave me the opportunity to for the first time eat the famous Iowa State Fair Fried Twinkie! I had a lot of fun there.
My final series of appeals (three this weekend) was at Saint Anne’s in Ortonville, MI in the Diocese of Detroit (see map). Apparently, Kid Rock lived down the street from the parish, which I thought was pretty cool. Hosting me were Father Gerard Frawley (of County Limerick, Ireland) and his German Shepherd Sammy. The Church had an interesting configuration as the altar was placed in the very middle of the room. We went out for dinner at an Italian restaurant next door and then watched a documentary about poverty in Africa. Father Frawley made breakfast for me Sunday morning before my final two appeals…
Overall, I had great time this past summer doing MCP appeals, facilitating the Camillian Task Force’s mission to serve the neediest of the needy… I look forward to my next experience with the CTF…
Eric Dizon
CTF-SOS DRS Kenya in the Slum of Kibera – A Personal Reflection
Alice Sarry – from Nairobi, Kenya
![Alice_4877[1]](http://sosdrs.files.wordpress.com/2009/10/alice_48771.jpg?w=544 "Alice_4877[1]")
CTF-SOS DRS Kenya has been serving in the slum of Kibera in Nairobi for more than a month now. The slum, a man-made disaster of some 750,000 people , is home to many who often lack the basic necessities of life. In fact, their physical, material and spiritual health is threatened by poor sanitary conditions, high prevalences of infectious disease (HIV, TB), poverty, violence, corruption and other social ills. It is not a pretty picture. There is hope though. And CTF-SOS DRS wants to carry out its mission to help sustain this hope.
The members of CTF-SOS DRS – Alice Sarry, Theresia Sinaga and Fr. John Mosoti (the director of Servants of the Sick Pastoral Training Center) witness to the merciful love of Christ for the poor and the sick. They collaborate with the Kenyan Delegation of the Camillians and Sr. Benta, a Kenyan member of the Ministers of the Infirm who works at Christ the King Parish in Kibera. SOS DRS in the USA financially supports their efforts.
Alice offers a personal reflection about her work during the week of September 29-October 3. She has been a member of CTF-SOS DRS Kenya since May 2009. Alice started with SOS DRS by working at its headquarters in Milwaukee,Wisconsin (USA) in December 2008.
Alice writes, “I thank God Father Almighty, the author of life, who has given me this opportunity – a call to attend to the poor and the sick. I normally start at 9.00 am, which gives me a great opportunity to start the day first with daily mass at the Holy Family Basilica before going down to the village to work. On Tuesday and Wednesday I was working in the Holistic Care Health Clinic at Christ the King Parish under the good guidance of Sister Benta – the Camillian Sister in charge of the clinic. I am learning to measure the weights of babies, and I am applying my knowledge in foods and nutrition teaching mothers how to provide a balanced diet for their children and also themselves. Most of the afternoons I go to counsel people (patients) who normally are home-based. I recently finished a unit of CPE (Clinical Pastoral Education) so I have had some training in that. Fr. Scott asked me to do that before I started working in the slum. In addition to listening to the people I take the opportunity to teach them about the importance of prayer.
I also introduce the Divine Mercy Chaplet and inform them how to pray the daily rosary as a family while listening to our local Catholic radio – Waumini (Kiswahili for “the faithful “) at 8:30 pm. For the non-Catholics, I teach them about Divine Mercy; how our Lord wants us to live on this earth. I am providing spiritual nourishment because, after counseling the patients, I realize their hope in life is very low and they think they will only get poorer. They want to pray after I share my experiences and listen to theirs. We are both uplifted in faith. On Saturday, the Good Samaritan group that was formed by Father John Mahone and tends to the sick and the poor, gathered to celebrate mass at Christ The King Church. I had the opportunity to read the 2nd reading. The mass was wonderful!
CTF-SOS DRS was fully represented: Father John Mosoti read the Gospel; Theresia Sinaga was actively taking pictures, and she also participated by preparing the altar. Father John preached afterwards introducing the Samaritans on what works we do at SOS DRS, and it blended so well with theirs. On Tuesdays at 10.00 am the Good Samaritans hold their weekly meetings at Christ The King in the African Hut. I have participated twice in their meetings. I am looking forward to Tuesday this week to go out and help the poor and the sick, to give them hope and courage to use the resources and talents that God has given them in life, to listen to them and to show them that in the eyes of God we are all equal. Our souls are no different – one from another.”
Alice Sarry
CTF-SOS DRS Kenya
Nairobi, Kenya
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( 2 so far )From Indonesia to Kenya – My Experience – Theresia Sinaga – A Personal Reflection -
Table of Contents – Summer-Fall 2009 – CTF-SOS DRS Newsletter
My participation during CTF Thailand-Myanmar Mission #2 inspired me with a burning desire to continue to serve the Lord through serving His people. On December 23, 2008, I returned to Indonesia where I spent a nostalgic month with my family. On the 5th anniversary of the Tsunami in Banda Aceh (December 26), we recalled the tragedy with both sorrow and gratitude. The loss of my sister and others during this assault of nature left us all with spiritual scars that only our prayers can soften.
Despite the sadness, the time with my family served as a rejuvenating preparation for the events to come.
While I was in Bangkok, Thailand Fr. Scott asked me to inquire about obtaining a visa to Rome so that I could participate in the CTF Leaders conference scheduled for February 2009. I was very grateful to be considered for such an opportunity, and I initiated the necessary arrangements. After the conclusion of my missionary work in Bangkok and Myanmar (December 2008), I visited the Italian embassy in Indonesia. I obtained the necessary information and forwarded it to Fr. Scott. Brother Luca Perletti in Rome assisted me by sending me an official letter of invitation. On February 5, 2009 I was granted a 3-month visa by the Italian Embassy.
Although my flight itinerary included a trip to Kenya after going to Rome, it was not necessary to apply for a Kenyan visa while in Indonesia. It was my understanding that it would be possible to apply for such at the airport in Nairobi.
Prior to my departure for Rome, though, Fr. Scott had asked me to prepare myself to remain in Kenya for at least one year. I knew this extended stay would present an emotional and spiritual challenge for me. It was not easy for me to leave my country, my family, my friends and my food. I knew, however, that it was God’s will for me to take this leap of faith on behalf of those whose lives I would be enhancing through the service I would offer during the time in Kenya. I also knew that I would be acquiring priceless experience and making many new friends. And I felt that this was what the Lord wanted from me. So with much thought and prayer I finalized my decision to leave my country of Indonesia.
Rome
I was quite grateful for the opportunity to attend the CTF Leaders Conference in Rome, Italy – the seat of the Catholic Church. In addition to a desire to serve Christ through my work with the CTF, I was also eagerly anticipating the opportunity to enjoy the renowned artistic masterpieces of the Holy City!
On February 6, 2009 I flew from Jakarta (the capital of Indonesia) to Singapore and then to Rome. I arrived at the airport in Rome at 6:00 a.m.. I was blessed to meet two sisters from Papua, New Guinea who had arrived to continue their studies. Our conversation about Indonesia, New Guinea and spiritual matters infused me with great inspiration, and helped me to agreeably pass some time.
Shortly after I had retrieved my luggage, Fr. Scott picked me up and drove me to the Maddalena, the mother house of the Camillians in Rome. It was a delightful setting. I found the people I encountered there to be very warm and hospitable.
On my first day at the community Fr. Scott guided me through the house and the church. He recounted the history of Saint Camillus de Lellis . I was most impressed by the amazing relics of St. Camillus – including his heart and his bones! Even after hundreds of years, the community managed to safeguard and treasure some of the saint’s belongings such as his letters and shoes.
Following my tour, I was introduced to the residents of the community, and then Fr. Scott and I enjoyed lunch. Those present included Fr. Renato Salvatore, MI (Father General), Fr. Jesus Ruiz, MI (Vicar General), Br. Luca Perletti, MI (Secretary General, Missions), Fr. Paulo Guarise, MI (Ministry, the former delegate of Kenya), Fr. Babychan P, MI (Formation), Fr. Francisco and Fr. Locci.
At that first meal I savored pasta (spaghetti), mushrooms, beans, potatoes and pork – but to my dismay, no rice!! I was initially a bit hesitant about this new food because it was so unfamiliar to me. At home in Indonesia our meals normally always include rice. Nevertheless, I tried to enjoy the unfamiliar dishes. Day by day I became more accustomed to Italian cuisine, and finally I learned to appreciate it – although I continued to miss my usual Indonesian fare. On one occasion I was treated to Chinese food, which was pleasantly similar to the food of my own country.
Kenya
My purposes in traveling to Kenya were to foster the growth of the CTF and to study clinical pastoral education (CPE) at the Servants of the Sick Training Center in Nairobi. Fr. Scott had been wanting to expand the CTF to include a Kenyan location since 2004. His dreams were finally being realized.
CTF-SOS DRS Kenya: Alice Sarry, Gideon Karuri, Theresia Sinaga and Fr. John Mosoti
On Monday, March 16, 2009 Fr. Scott and I flew to Kenya where we were greeted at the airport by Fr. Raphael Otieno. He drove us to Bolech House in Nairobi, one of the Kenyan Camillian communities (Dennis Pritt Rd 39, Caledonia, Nairobi, Kenya). Fr. Scott and I both used our time constructively–napping! Fr. Raphael woke us to inform us that we had arrived at our destination.
During breakfast, Fr. Scott updated us about his works and experiences as the CTF coordinator. Afterwards, I once again attempted to catch up on my rest. Sleep did not come easily, however. Aside from the residents, the community also served as a home for seven dogs, three of which were still puppies. They were quite vocal, and their incessant yelps helped neither my rest nor prayer.
This first day in Kenya, March 16, 2009 will be forever imprinted in my memory.
In the afternoon I met Carola who workes as the Kenyan coordinator for Salute e Sviluppo. At 8:00 p.m., Fr. Scott and I met for dinner. We were joined by Fr. Raphael Otieno and Fr. John Mosoti, the supervisor of the Camillian Pastoral Center in Kenya. During dinner and for some time afterward, we discussed our accomplishments as CTF. It was enjoyable to share our activities and our mission with individuals who have similar vocational goals and commitments.
Prior to retiring, Fr. John introduced us to the boisterous canine sentry team, which actually proved to be quite a friendly group when we were properly introduced. Fr. John Mosoti informed us that they were ” the vicious guardians of the community”.
The following morning and each day thereafter, Fr. Scott and I prayed the WMR, spent time with Christ in adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, and celebrated Holy Mass. We worked, etc and then at three o’clock we met to pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet. My prayer life continues to flourish in Kenya.
The food in Kenya is unique and unlike any fare that I have ever known On a daily basis we enjoy ugali (corn porridge) that is made from maize flour and is recognized as the Kenyan national dish. The cooks – Adrian, Lilian and Theresia – also prepare pasta and chapati, my favorite. I am thankful for the love and care they show in preparing these delicious dishes.
I attended several meetings whose aim was the expansion of CTF-SOS DRS through collaboration with a network of Camillian entities – CTF-SOS DRS, Salute e Sviluppo, the Camillian Sisters, Fr.John Mosoti (Director of the Camillian Pastoral Center) and Fr. James Wanjau (Provincial Delegate). CTF-SOS DRS is now working together with the pastoral center in Nairobi. We are grateful to Fr. John Mosoti for providing us with an office. CTF-SOS DRS has enhanced the pastoral center by providing internet at the Servants of the Sick Training Center. We hope to continue this opportunity to serve God and people through the pastoral center. The CTF intends to continue to send students to the Training Center for Clinical Pastoral Education and to fund their training.
The Servants of the Sick Training Center s operated by the Camillians under the direction and supervision of Fr. John Mosoti, a Camillian priest and psychologist. I must be honest in expressing that my interest in taking the CPE courses was initially only mild at best. When Fr. Scott explained the goodness that can be accomplished with the knowledge obtained from the CPE curriculum and offered to fund my studies, I finally agreed. I submitted my application to Fr. John who subsequently interviewed me. I also had an interview with Sr. Dervilla O’ Donnel, a nurse and sister of the Medical Missionaries of Mary. The interview was challenging, but I believe I communicated well. Both supervisors questioned my intentions in taking the course and explained the curriculum to me. Upon learning more about the course, my ambition increased and I became quite enthusiastic. I prayed that I would be accepted and for God’s grace in helping me to complete the course. I later continued my prayers that he would help me to persever.
Servants of the Sick Training Center Students: Sr. Dervilla O’ Donnel (supervisor), Br. Thomas Makori, Sr. Susan Wango Munyangia, Theresia Sinaga, Br. Gabriel Maina, Veronica Biyaki and Jackline Njeri
On May 25, 2009 I began my studies -the birthday of St. Camillus! I made a number of friends, most of whom were of African descent. Needless to say, I was the only Indonesian. Of the 13 students, three were priests (Fr. Dominic N’Juve, Fr. Dominic Musyoki and Fr. Thomas Apil), two were Camillian sisters (Sr. Susan Wango Munyangia [1st unit] and Sr. Salome) three were Camillian brothers (Br. Raphael N’ Dungu, Br. Thomas Makori [1st unit] and Br. Gabriel Maina [1st unit]), one was a Notre Dame sister from Nigeria (Sr. Eunice Dagi - (see CTF Kenya-Camillians’ Pastoral Response to Nakumatt Fires in Nairobi), and four were lay people (Monica, Jacqline Njerji [2nd unit], Veronica Biyaki [2nd unit] and myself). Sr. Eunice had already completed two units of CPE training and was present to commence a third unit. Three of the students had completed the first unit and the remaining nine, including myself, were just beginning our studies.
The CPE curriculum includes 270 hours of training in ministry practicum (27 hours per week) and the preparation of a verbatim each week. I was assigned to Kenyatta National Hospital and Mathare Psychiatric Hospital.
Kenyatta National Hospital is a public hospital where I served in the surgical ward. The Mathare Psychiatric Hospital has person who are mentally ill. My greatest challenge was the language. Most of the patients spoke Swahili, the most common language in the locality. The first and second weeks of my studies presented incredible tribulation, and I must admit that I was quite inclined to resign. It was particularly difficult for me to deal with my own feelings and past while listening to the patients recount their sadness, their rejection, their anger and the losses of family members and loved ones. I felt as if I did not have the answers to help them cope with their sorrows. One of the patients, A 15-year old girl, was diagnosed with cancer of her lips seven years ago. She asked me, “Am I going to die?” I was uncertain how I should answer her. After a period of silence I had to admit that I did not know. Her predicament brought me to tears and brought back memories of my younger sister, Anastasia, who died at a very untimely age in the Tsunami of Dec 26, 2004.
I offer thanks to God that my supervisor, Sr. Dervilla O’Donnel, remained by my side during my ministry practicum. Her presence helped me emotionally in numerous ways while challenging me to learn and to become a better human being. My other new friends and Fr. Scott were also a source of support, enlightenment and inspiration. I could not give up because I realized that I was being faced with the reality of life. The experience infused me with a sincere zeal toward my studies.
During the fifth week, I began contemplating the possibility of becoming a CPE supervisor in my own country. I recalled my own despair during my hospital stay following the Tsunami. Nobody was available for the patients to speak with regarding their feelings. My CPE training, in conjunction with my own experiences and reflections, has increased my awareness regarding the importance of providing emotional and spiritual care to people who are suffering: disaster victims, the sick, the poor, the abused. One of my dreams for the future is to open a CTF-SOS DRS pastoral center in my own country of Indonesia. I will pray and hope for this opportunity.
Theresia Sinaga (Center) at the Servants of the Sick Training Center Graduation with CTF-SOS DRS member Alice Sarry and volunteer Gideon Karuri
On August 1, 2009 I finished the CPE course. The insights and knowledge I acquired will remain in my heart, soul and mind forever. I would have liked to have been able to register for the next CPE unit, but I will be unable to do so at present,. I have been accepted at Hekima College, a part of the Catholic University of Eastern Africa. I will be doing a master’s degree in peace studies and international relations. But I hope and pray that the opportunity to do CPE will present itself again in the future after I have completed my studies.
On the last day that I visited the Mathare Hospital, a patient who had resided there for 5 months poignantly questioned the reason for my anticipated departure. He seemed dismayed that I would not be returning, and he told me how much my presence had helped him. It was wonderful moment. All the patients thanked me for visiting them. Many had been rejected by the family members because of their illness. Despite their afflictions, they are human beings like you and I. And they require the love and support of others. I was happy for the opportunity to personify Christ in their lives. He said, “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me” (Matt: 25: 35-36). He was my inspiration throughout.
I thank the Lord for introducing me to the CPE courses through Fr. Scott, for my instructors, and for my friends who have supported me. I thank you, the reader, for your prayers and your support. May God continue to bless us all!
Theresia Sinaga
Nairobi, Kenya
Susan M. Stefanski, Assistant Editor, CTF-SOS DRS Online Newsletter
Table of Contents – Summer-Fall 2009 – CTF-SOS DRS Newsletter
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( 4 so far )CTF-SOS DRS Kenya: The Pastoral Response of the Camillians to the Nakumatt Fires in Nairobi
Table of Contents – Summer-Fall 2009 – CTF-SOS DRS Newsletter
INTRODUCTION to the Nakumatt Fires
On Thursday January 28, 2009 a torrid fire ignited within the Nakumatt supermarket in Nairobi, Kenya. The blaze was believed to have been launched by the explosion of a generator following a power failure.
As billowing clouds of smoke corrupted the skyline, charred rubble and cinders showered the streets. City Council of Nairobi’s (CCN) Fire Brigade was impeded by the throngs of bystanders who, upon receiving notification of the catastrophe, rushed to locate their beloved ones. Water sources were quickly depleted, while communications systems in the vicinity failed. Carelessly stored canisters containing gas and other flammable chemicals detonated regularly, creating a series of explosions during the 12-hour blaze. One Nakumatt employee expired shortly after jumping from a window in an attempt to escape the smoke and flames within the edifice, while other victims vaulted from the roof of the structure.
Meanwhile, in attempt to deter vandals, supermarket employees had locked the doors to the market.
Of the 48 people reported missing, at least 28 lost their lives in the inferno. (See 40 Feared Dead in Nairobi Supermarket Fire.)
Nairobi residents were incensed at the lack of disaster preparedness exhibited by Nakumatt managers and public authorities, as well as at the unsympathetic response of government officials. The issue of compensation for victims and their families remains a topic of discussion.
“A civil action under the common law of negligence demands proof that the defendant owed the plaintiff a duty of care, breached the duty and thereby caused damage. Further, that the harm was neither too remote nor contributed to by the victims themselves. The law imposes a duty upon everyone to ensure that their activities do not injure their neighbours – anyone who may be affected by one’s actions.” (See Nakumatt Fire Tragedy: The Law Maze.)
In congruence with Catholic Social Justice Teaching, we Catholics have the responsibility to ensure the welfare of all people: those within our own communities and those who are affected by our actions. In addition, we have the obligation to demonstrate a preferential option for the poor and those who are unable to provide or care for themselves, whether in times of catastrophe and crisis, or within the context of daily life. Government and social structures should incorporate such theories into their practices.
The fires in Kenya, as well as the inappropriate responses of the authorities, reflect neglect for such standards. The loss of life is a tragic and overwhelming sadness for families, friends and people in the country, but just as tragic is a system that allows such negligence to occur. Conversely, we must be aware that the laws of any nation are a dynamic and evolving structure, and that we must respect the moral development of any country’s legal and social structure, as we should for those of each human person. Rather than condemn, it is perhaps better to assist by advocating for change in a constructive manner.
Introduction by Susan Stefanski
Personal Reflection
by Eunice Dagi, SSND
When one beholds the city of Nairobi, one cannot but admire the splendor of the modern buildings that decorate the cityscape. The variety of architectural designs are truly breath-taking. Some of these structures house very influential headquarters, businesses, hotels, shopping malls, entertainment venues and recreational facilities, all of which are patronized by a substantial number of people at any given time.
Interestingly, whenever I enter into these attractive and pleasing structures, I feel a deceptive sense of safety. Security personnel monitor the edifices and those who enter, conducting ongoing inspections to deter the smuggling of dangerous weapons onto these premises.
The last issue one could conceive of as presenting concern is the potential necessity to evacuate the premises in the unlikely event of an emergency.
Yet, an emergency occurred, in a place few would ever suspect. One can never over-prepare for a disaster, some say, but at least one can take precautions.
The 28th of January, 2009, presented a challenge to the level of safety preparedness of these attractive and elusively invulnerable public areas.
On the afternoon of this particular day, Nakumatt Downtown, a large retail supermarket franchise of Nakumatt Supermarket, caught fire. (See Photos: Huge fire at Nakumatt Downtown, Nairobi.)
More than twenty people died, and scores of others were injured or disfigured.
The wounded were transported to various health-care facilities for treatment. The majority arrived at Kenyatta National Hospital, where pastoral care-givers from the Servants of the Sick Training Center for Health Care Ministry ministered to their physical and spiritual needs.
We, the students of the Center, were barely two weeks into our unit of CPE (Clinical Pastoral Education) training, when the tragedy occurred. The chaplains and student chaplains present witnessed the evacuation of the fire victims to the emergency unit. Some of the student chaplains were already at the Kenyatta hospital, and mobilized in haste to provide assistance.
It appeared to be emotionally difficult for our chaplains and students to observe victims arrive at the hospital alive only to be carried out shortly afterward as corpses The mortuary staff, who entered in procession, appeared dumb-founded and confused. Despite their chagrin, the chaplains made efforts to provide comfort to the morticians and other by-standers.
The following afternoon, after completing our classes, we again visited the hospital. The moment we arrived, we received a call from the hospital chaplain, informing us that the Red Cross was in desperate need of chaplains. Immediately, I consulted the supervisor of the CPE, to inform him of the request from the Red Cross and of our intent to immediately depart to the scene of the Nakumatt tragedy.
When we arrived at the scene, we found hundreds of devastated citizens waiting with concerned apprehension, hoping to discover the whereabouts of their loved ones, or at least to catch a glimpse of their bodies. After the bereaved were organized by the Red Cross, we escorted them to the mortuary, where they were to identify their beloved ones.
Upon arriving at the mortuary, my heart began beating wildly, as I had never previously experienced such an intense situation. I felt extremely restless and anxious. I had to remind myself; “Look, you have
come to take care of the victims, so you had better be strong if you are to be of help”.
We, the students chaplains, a few counselors, and the Red Cross members gathered the victims to prepare them spiritually and psychologically for the viewing of the bodies prior to their entrance into the main mortuary. (DNA testing subsequently became a legal requirement to confirm the identities of the victims–See Advanced Tests Needed for Nakumatt Fire Victims.)
The moment I caught sight of the first body, I felt petrified, unable to perform my duties. I turned my back on the unspeakable scene that lay beyond the mortuary doors. Coming half way out, I had to remind myself again that I had come to give care to the victims.
And so, I stayed. I could not believe the horrific sights that assaulted my senses: human beings unrecognizable as such. Their appearance more closely resembled charred firewood in a forest. I struggled with my feelings. I did my best to offer care to the victims. (See 13 Bodies Found in Scorched Remains of Kenyan Shop.)
The families of the deceased would exit from the viewing room dumb-founded, weeping, attempting to derive meaning from the atrociously heartbreaking circumstances. “Why me?” they cried in agony, as if refusing to accept the truth of the abominable events which had occurred. Compassion filled our hearts as we continued to assist and appease them by allowing them to lament the pain of their losses and by simply listening to their sorrows.
In retrospect, the experience was disquieting, yet illuminating, informative and spiritually-enhancing. It was distressing and appalling, because I have never seen a human form so unidentifiable, with the appearance, rather, of something else. Nevertheless, I learned from the experience. It helped me to understand that, as care-givers, we are supposed to be ready and well-equipped to handle such situations at all times, to put aside our own feelings in favor of acting as Servants of the Sick and servants of the Lord. It was difficult to refrain from becoming overwhelmed, and to maintain a logical, care-giving presence in spite of the empathy that naturally flowed from our hearts for those we were to console.
I would like to express my gratitude to the Red Cross for so effectively collaborating with us (the Servants of the Sick,) and for their ability to respond to such needs as they arise.
Eunice Dagi, SSND (School Sisters of Notre Dame)
Edited by Gideon Kuwa & Susan Stefanski
The Catholic Catechism teaches. . . .
Faith makes us taste in advance the light of the beatific vision, the goal of our journey here below. Then we shall see God “face to face,” as He is. So faith is already the beginning of eternal life:
When we contemplate the blessings of faith even now, as if gazing at a reflection in the mirror, it is as if we already possessed the wonderful things that our faith assures us we shall one day enjoy.
Now, however, we “walk by faith, not by sight”; we perceive God as “in a mirror, dimly” and only “in part.” Even though enlightened by him in whom it believes, faith is often lived in darkness and can be put to the test. The world we live in often seems very far from the one promised by faith. Our experiences of evil and suffering, injustice, and death seem to contradict the Good News; they can shake our faith and become a temptation against it.
It is then we who must turn to the witnesses of faith, to Abraham, who”in hope. . . .believed against hope,” to the Virgin Mary, who, in “her pilgrimage of faith,” walked into the “night of faith” in sharing the darkness of her son’s suffering and death; and to so many others: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.” (Catholic Catechism, 163-164)
Table of Contents – Summer 2009 – CTF-SOS DRS Newsletter.
Theresia Sinaga – CPE Graduation and Trip to Kisumu (Kenya) and Tabaka Hospital
Current Events — August 2 – 10, 2009 — Kenya
By Theresia Sinaga
It was August 1, 2009. I had just graduated from the Servants of the Sick Training Center in Nairobi after completing my first unit of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) training – 10 weeks of verbatims, visiting the sick in nearby hospitals, and many group and individual encounters. I wanted a break, and one of my fellow CPE students – Fr. Apil – gave me that opportunity. He has completed 2 units of CPE and is a diocesan priest from the Kisumu area in western Kenya.
Servants of the Sick Training Center in Nairobi, Kenya
Theresia Sinaga receives a diploma for Clinical Pastoral Education.
Pictured are (from L to R) Mrs. Botela (Deputy of Matron of Mathare hospital,) Sr. Dervilla O’Donnel (CPE Supervisor, Servants of the Sick Training Center), Fr. John Mosoti (CPE Supervisor & Director of Servants of the Sick Training Center), Students
On August 2, following a spirit-filled Mass at St. Bosco Catholic Church in Nairobi, Fr. Apil Bosco and I embarked on a journey to Tabaka. Our first stop was Uriri, the home of Fr. Bosco’s mother. The seven-hour journey was pleasant, despite the irregularity of the unlighted roads. We arrived in Uriri at about 8:30 pm, where we were warmly greeted. I was surprised to discover that the homes did not have electric service. I wondered how the inhabitants were able to function and assist their children with their studies without electricity.
We spent the night at St. Ann’s convent with the five Fransiscan sisters who reside there. The site also serves as a dispensary, school and a boarding house, where approximately 300 students live and learn. In the morning, I had the opportunity to spend several hours with Sr. Vera, the headmaster. Her heart-rending description of the school and the histories of the individual students touched me deeply. Most of the pupils came from poor families; many were orphans. I was particularly moved by my acquaintance with a timid 9-year-old child by the name of Pauline. Her mother is infected with HIV, and she has no father. Sr. Vera told me that there has been no tuition paid on behalf of the girl for two years. After acquiring more details, I decided to support Pauline by assuming the responsibility of her tuition. I already support four children in my own country, Indonesia. If we do not help them, who will help them? So many have no means of support other than what is provided by benefactors.
The dispensary provides medical services to approximately 20 to 30 patients daily. One of the two nurses who work at the center is a midwife; the other is a pharmacist. There is no medical doctor on staff, as the current budget is insufficient for such services. The sisters have applied to the government for funding for the salary of a doctor, but thus far their request has not been granted. Medication is also in short supply. Presently, medication is purchased with money provided by patients, or an occasional dispersement from the government. The sisters continue to pray for increased funding so that they can provide their patients with more adequate treatment. I was most grateful to have the experience of witnessing this lifestyle of love of the Lord through service to the poor and the sick, and also for the opportunity to be of assistance to this disadvantaged population. Prior to our departure to the project in Tabaka, Fr. Apil and I thanked the Franciscan sisters for welcoming us so hospitably. Thank you, Franciscan Sisters, may God continue to bless your good works in serving the medical and pastoral needs of these people.
The following morning, we departed at 9:00 am for our next destination – Ahero (Kisumu). We arrived around noon to a very warm welcome. Fr. Apil has started a project in Ahero for orphans and widows. I was warmly welcomed – especially by Inda. Fr. Apil then showed me the facility and what he has accomplished there. I saw many hungry children waiting in anticipation for their lunches. The Center serves approximately 117 orphaned children, all between the ages of 2 and 16 years old. The Center provides lunches, but a scarcity of funds prevents the distribution of more than one meal daily. Local widows cook and care for some of the orphans. One widow will often take 4 or 5 children into her home and care for them. Fr. Apil has arranged to provide shelter and support for these widows. Currently, he assists 5 widows who farm and attend to the Center. The project is directly supervised by a man named Charles. He has been managing the project in a volunteer capacity since 2004. He assists in caring for the orphans and widows, and he works as a farmer.
Fr. Apil provided me with some information about the history of the project. In 2004 in Kisumu, he befriended a man from Germany who arranged a visit to Ahero along with some of his associates. There they witnessed the tribulation of the local people as they struggled with the primitive conditions. Aghast, they observed the difficulties suffered by the impoverished population to accommodate the basic necessities of life. People transported water on their heads. There was no electricity, and even food was in short supply. Many perished for lack of basic medical care.
Following a year of observation, the German benevolently provided a water tank at the school adjacent to the Center, thus benefitting the entire community.
Presently, there is a hospital within a reasonable distance from the Center. It is a private hospital, however, and the cost of services is quite formidable. Fr. Apil has been seeking support for medical services for a number of years, to no avail. His hopes have been renewed through getting to know me and the work of CTF-SOS DRS.
Fr. Apil’s account of the German’s intervention to minimize the poverty surrounding the project in Ahero inspired me to contribute to the improvement of the existing pathetic conditions. I recalled a fine lunch which included fried eggs that were served to me upon my arrival. I had inquired as to the source of the eggs, and I was told that they were purchased for 10 shillings each. Upon further inquiry, I discovered that the price of a chicken was 300 shillings. I proposed to provide the project with 10 chickens if they agreed to provide a chicken coop, and explained to them some basic principles of operating a small business. I agreed to evaluate the endeavor after a period of time and consider additional support.
After spending the entire day at Fr. Apil’s project near Kisumu we went to the pastoral center nearby where we stayed overnight. We were waiting for Fr. John Mosoti to arrive the following morning. Fr. John, the director of the Camillian pastoral center in Nairobi and a CPE supervisor, was also interested in the progress of the project. On Tuesday morning Fr. John Mosoti arrived to view and discuss the project. For starters, Fr. Apil proposed that the CTF-SOS DRS fund additional CPE training for Charles.
Next on our agenda was a three-day visit to Tabaka Hospital in Kisi. Fr. John Mosoti, who is from Kisi, was kind enough to transport me there. I was anxious to learn more about the work of the Camillians in order to integrate the efforts of CTF-SOS DRS and their existing programs. I was introduced to some benefactors from Trento, Italy and met Fr. Raphael Wanjau, MI, the director of the Tabaka Mission Hospital, who obligingly gave me a tour of the compound. I also met two other Camillians – Fr. Franco Avi, a doctor/surgeon at the hospital and Br. Albano. For a bit of fu, the Italian benefactors and I visited the Masai Mara, a renowned 1510 square kilometer wildlife reserve. It was a fun and memorable experience, which provided me with the opportunity to network and strengthen my friendship with my new comrades. I am hoping that we will be able to work together in the future to serve God by providing aid to His people in Kenya.
Prepared by
Theresia Sinaga
Nairobi, Kenya
August 25, 2009
Kibera Slum in Nairobi, Kenya – AIDS, CTF-SOS DRS Kenya and Sister Monica Mukui, ASN
Fr. Scott Binet
I first went to Nairobi, Kenya in June 2004. I was there to sensitize my fellow Camillians in East Africa to the existence of the CTF. I was also on my way to Uganda and then Sudan to do some work in refugee camps.
Kenya in East Africa
While in Nairobi Fr. Paolo Guarise, MI (the Kenyan Delegate at the time) gave me “a tour” of Kibera Slum – an experience I will never forget. I had never seen such horrible living conditions: sewage strewn through the streets; children with tattered clothing and no shoes who had obviously not bathed in some time; a terrible stench, and mud and more mud. It had just rained and Kibera – always a man-made disaster – had just become a natural disaster as well.
Kibera Slum, Nairobi (Kenya) - From Within
Kibera made such an impression on me that I decided to go back a second time during my visit in Nairobi. It was then that I first met Fr. John Mosoti, MI – the director of the Servants of the Sick Training Center (Camillian pastoral center) - and Sr. Monika Mukui, a nurse by profession and a member of the Assumption Sisters of Nairobi by vocation.
Sr. Monica was working at St. Mary’s Hospital in Nairobi, a magnificent facility that sits on the edge of Kibera Slum and is run by the Maryknoll Fathers and the Assumption Sisters. Sr. Monica and I talked at length during which time I shared the vision I had of one day establishing a Camillian Task Force presence in the slum of Kibera. Sr. Monica indicated that she was eager to be a part of that vision. As I walked through the slum for the last time I knew that I would be back. I had to be patient though. And so did Sr. Monica.
I returned to Nairobi in April 2009 and soon after my arrival arranged for a meet with Fr. John Mosoti, MI Theresia Sinaga and Sr. Monica. Sister and I had been communicating via e-mail for a time, and it was good to see her again. Our conversation soon turned to how we might collaborate in helping the people of Kibera. Sr. Monica told me that she was studying for an MA in Public Health and that her thesis would be related to a study of the prevalence of HIV in Kibera and associated risk factors. I was immediately intrigued and offered my support – professional and financial.
The AIDS pandemic marches on in Kenya and elsewhere despite significant progress in providing retroviral medications and some promising vaccines. The Camillians are at the forefront of providing primarily pastoral support but also some medical care for HIV-infected people in places like Thailand, Vietnam, Burkina Faso, Kenya, and Brazil.
The AIDS pandemic is one that affects in a particular way those who are poor and live in overcrowded situations like slums and refugee camps. Thus the Camillian Task Force whose mission is to provide medical, pastoral, and humanitarian assistance in man-made and natural disasters also serves those with HIV/AIDS. CTF-SOS DRS Kenya’s work in Kibera is an example of this. Collaborating with Sr. Monika’s work in Kibera and her religious congregation could be an excellent expression of the mission as well.
So on this day, December 1, when we celebrate the World Day of AIDS, I would like to post the following background information about Kibera. It was provided in large part by Sr. Monika in light of her thesis and our planned collaboration. It will help you as a reader and an interested supporter to better understand the context of the mission of CTF-SOS DRS in Kenya.
By Sr. Monica Muklui, ASN
Kibera Slum – Informal Settlement (Nairobi – Kenya)
Kibera is the largest slum in Kenya, which lies astride the equator on the eastern coast of Africa and covers an area of 583,000 sq. km (225,000 sq. miles). The country is bordered on the north by Sudan and Ethiopia; on the east by Somalia; on the southeast by the Indian Ocean; on the southwest by Tanzania; and on the west by Lake Victoria and Uganda (see image below).
Kibera is known as the second largest slum in Africa. It is located in the Kibera division of the western district of Nairobi {Google Map}
According to the Nairobi City Council, the Kibera informal settlement covers an area of 5.5 kilometers squared (km2). It is southwest of the city center of Nairobi.
Facts about Kibera
i) The Kibera slums are very densely populated and resources are wanting. The Central Bureau of Statistics census in 1999 confirmed that Kibera is the most populated informal settlement in East Africa. It houses more than one quarter of Nairobi’s population. The population density is 68,030 persons per km2. This makes it one of the most densely populated slums in Kenya. Recent estimates state the population to be nearly 1 million inhabitants.
ii) Kibera is the largest slum in East Africa and the second largest in Africa. Kibera hosts many people who are poor. Many of them are also sick (TB victims, etc.), uneducated and unemployed. UNAIDS/WHO (July 2007) estimates that 58.3% of the 34,256 Kenyans are living on less than US $2 per day.
iii) The census of the Central Bureau of Statistics in 1999) confirmed that the majority of Nairobi’s urban population (1.9 million) lives in the vast shanty settlements that surround the central business district. The number of people and the corresponding percentage seem to have increased leading to even great er crowding (figure 3).
Figure 3 - Aerial View of Kibera
Overcrowding and high population density in Kibera is also described by Alioune Badiane, the director of the UN Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) regional office for Africa and the Arab States who points out that:
“Kibera is said to be Africa’s largest slum. Kibera has 3,000 persons per hectare; I do not see any other place in the world that has such a density. Kibera is roughly 2.5 kilometres squared with an estimated population of 1 million people” (UN-HABITAT Report, 2007)
POVERTY AND HIV/AIDS
It is widely accepted that HIV/AIDS has a major economic and social impact on individuals, families, communities, and society as whole. In Kenya, as in other countries in sub – Saharan Africa, HIV/AIDS threatens personal and national well-being by negatively affecting health, lifespan, the productive capacity of individuals; and critically, by severely constraining the accumulation of human capital and its transfer between generations. Research across many severely affected and low-income countries clearly demonstrates that HIV/AIDS is the most serious impediment to economic growth and development in such countries. (This is a real disaster!). Consequently, the epidemic’s dynamics need to be explored in human development terms.
OTHER HEALTH CONCERNS IN KIBERA
The population of Kibera lacks food, water, fuel and access to health care, which are all risk factors for disease.
Risk Factors for the Increased Communicable Disease Burden
1. Due to an interruption in the access to safe water and a lack of sanitation facilities, the majority of the people in Kibera are at immediate and high risk of being affected by outbreaks of water-borne and food-borne diseases due to reduced access to clean water and a lack of sanitation systems. These include diseases like cholera, typhoid, hepatitis and amoebiasis (entamoeba hystolytica) and dysentery (shigella dysenteriae type 1).
2. Due to malnutrition and the ease with which communicable diseases are transmitted, one significant public heath concern is the well-being of infants and children in Kibera. Malnutrition compromises natural immunity leading to more frequent severe and prolonged episodes of infections. Severe malnutrition often masks symptoms and signs of communicable diseases making prompt clinical diagnosis and early treatment more difficult.
3. Due to poor access to health services and the deterioration of security and the degradation of the health infrastructure – the health of the population of Kibera is compromised on a routine basis and in particular at times of crisis [e.g. the presidential elections of 2008] .
4. The lack of security within Kibera can leave women and children vulnerable to rape and sexual violence. Poverty and single motherhood can then lead to women to commercial sex work and to increase their risk of HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Much more can be said about Kibera. I believe much can and should be done to change the situation as well.
Sr. Monika Muklui, ASN
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