I like to revisited the blog from time to time and register here the wonderful things that have been happening with my Akili family in Kisumu. After all, these things are the result of little seeds that I too, helped to plant (literally! - remember the tomatoes?). I can't believe that it has been over 10 months since I first arrived in Kisumu. The green houses, the school... it was just a beginning of a wonderful story that many of you followed, so I feel you should know the progress! Here is the update. Shall we?
A few weeks ago, David and Erick (the best friends, dynamic duo and founders of Akili) attended a sustainability convention promoted my Mama Hope and hosted in Nairobi, Kenya. The convention had the participation of all community leaders from all projects that have partnership with Mama Hope. It was a great opportunity for them to share their experiences and learn from each other.
Remember the boarding home they were starting to build? Well, it is already looking like this:
The boarding home is located right next to the new school building. That means that moving day is coming up fast for the Akili's students!
Who, by the way, are growing smarter every day!
Speaking of growing, take a look at the beautiful tomato plants. The Akili farm continues producing vegetables that are sold and the community, employing local women. The money helps to cover the school operational costs.
Soon, Akili will be welcoming its 5th Global Advocate, Rachel, from Australia. Rachel is raising funds that will be invested in:
- A Dairy Project: a new form of income that will help David and Erick cover the operational costs and pay for all staff's salary (remember that now there will be not only a school to pay for, but also a boarding home)
- Teacher/staff wages: for a year period, allowing Akili time to get that dairy project working
- Completion of the boarding home: final details that will assure the girls have a happy and healthy place to live!
You can follow Rachel's progress and make a donation here: classy.org/rachaelakili.
