wrapping up East Africa

Nairobi, Kenya (layover)










We took advantage of a 4 hour layover in Kenya – we ate a huge meal at the famous “Carnivore” restaurant and spent a few moments at this scenic spot overlooking downtown Nairobi…

Kigali, Rwanda (which is actually pronounced: Cha-Gali)









We devoted ourselves to a week of volunteering at Cards for Africa – a socially responsible company co-owned by one of our closest friends, Jimmy Quach. (http://www.cardsfromafrica.com/)

Over 75 employees work in this incredible company devoted to making handmade cards from recyclable materials. The card-making staff (63 folks) comprise largely of orphans who have lost parents due to the Rwandan genocide or HIV. Watching these folks labor over the details of rather intricate cards was a thing of beauty (especially as American hip-hop blasts in the background).

Melissa spent some significant time with Athanasie (pictured) and Aimee, who are in charge of inventory, stock, and materials. Mel spent time with both women, teaching them how to use Excel to manage data. I (Warren) spent the better part of the week troubleshooting blue-screening computers and solving technical issues like a good Asian boy.

We definitely grew in appreciation for the difficulties of running a small business – especially in East Africa where things considered routine in the States (e.g., ordering supplies, reliable internet connection, unbroken electricity).

We have a short stay in Uganda before we head to London for three days. We bid a sad goodbye to East Africa, where we have learned so much and come to appreciate so much of the language, the culture, and the people!