"... In the afternoon we went for a final long walk, this time not nearly so long or so steep as previous Saturday walks. We just didn’t have time! One of the other students and I are both leaving Monday, so we walked into the forest along the road to Eldoret. Along the way we met 2 sisters, one 12 years old and the other looked about 10, who were fetching large loads of wood for their families. Besides the fact that they kept laughing at us, they were interesting to talk to. We also were followed by large crowds of children—mzungu always have a following. After the walk we had chai with one of the pastors, then said goodbye to other Kenyan friends. It’s been a busy day of visiting, and tomorrow looks to be pretty similar! At this point, all four of us girls have our hair braided Kenyan style, which seems to make the locals happy..."
Hope's strategic partnership with InMed and other health based organization in the U.S, is designed to accelerate knowledge sharing between Kenyans and Americans. Over the years, medical students and professionals have spent time in Kenya serving in clinics, visiting homes and participating in public health intervention and prevention programs. Hope Kenya is positioned well to effectively make these connections possible for individuals and institutions in the U.S and in Kenya.
Meghan's experience is not unusual of a Mzungu's first visit to Kenya. She clearly articulates her journey, as a young medical student, interested in taking the risk of serving forgotten people.
Here is Meghan story...
Hello! My name is Meghan Hofto. I am a medical student at the University of Tennessee, and I’m starting my INMED service-learning experience at Kapsowar Hospital in Kenya, beginning in February 2011.
...I don’t really talk about my faith all that much back home (especially with strangers) ... When we’ve never been oppressed, or in the minority, it’s easy for faith to just become a part of us—not something we talk about as much, or something new or amazing or that could become a problem for us in the community