As part of my yearlong travels, it was important for me to end the year by becoming more purposeful. By connecting my world with that of another place so different from my reality, hoping to serve as a global citizen in changing a person’s life. During my 18 days in Kenya, I visited a primary school in the town of Kisii from within a school region of 154, 175 people….
The final 18 days of my yearlong travel were spent in Kenya before heading home. If you were to ask me was this part of my original travel plans, I would have to say “not exactly” with no regrets. Kenya is known for its scenic landscapes, a diversity of indigenous tribes, and its vast wildlife preserves. In fact, Nairobi is the safari capital of the world with its own national wildlife park within its borders. Staying in Nairobi allowed me to partake in a safari adventure, volunteer at a private school in a rural community and explore the city. Here are reflections of the final days of my yearlong travel and of Kenya…
When traveling through Kenya, you are likely to come across the Maasai Tribe, a semi- nomadic and pastoral community of people that are fighting to retain most of their traditions. The Maasai People are famously known for their unique customs that are rooted in co-existing with wildlife and the herding of livestock. I was fortunate to spend a bit of time with a local Maasai Tribe learning about their way of life. Honestly, you are both perplexed and inspired by an indigenous community whose way of life and survival is threatened every day. Here’s what I’ve learned about the Maasai Tribe and their endurance to survive….
This story sums up the series on my October trip to Africa and speaks to the most profound part of my visit in recognition of Black History Month. So little is known about how Africans were enslaved and transported to the Americas. How the Portuguese, the British, the French and the Dutch built and managed a series of slave ports on the West African coast which transported over 12 million slaves to the New World with more than 2 million dying during this treacherous journey*. We visited two slave forts—-the island of Gorée and the Elmina Castle, both tell a story that should never be forgotten… a visit of conscience.
Our next stop was to Accra, Ghana’s capital, where we stayed the last three remaining days of our 16-day trip. Too short of a time to really experience all that this country offers but enough to walk away with a deeper understanding of West African culture and its connection to America’s African diaspora. Driving through the Ivory Coast, you get to see the contrast between the natural beauty of this country, and its people….
Upon arriving in Dakar, the capital city of Senegal, you are immediately taken in by a uniquely contrasting society. A developing country that became independent from France in 1960, blessed with amazing sites, cuisine, customs and history, yet with its fair share of struggles in building a robust economy for its people. The city of Dakar is home to a beautiful coastline with a historical role in what is known as the African Diaspora…..
Africa, the mother continent of the human race where the first human skulls were discovered. A continent so misunderstood, yet rich in its history and culture as it merged with its many colonizers. Its vast resources, its people and natural beauty are unmistakably one of mystery and exoticism. A place so captivating in furthering our exploration and understanding of our humanity. So fortunate to have visited Morocco, Senegal, and Ghana — three very distinct countries that make up the 54 that represent Africa. Fourteen days later, there are too many experiences and discoveries to share. Here is my best shot at it…
