Submitted by Health on Tue, 2012-11-13 16:10
- STORIES FROM MAAI MAHIU, KENYA -
Recently, CTC staff members made a trip out to Oleirowua and Olasit to visit a group of GAPA grandparents. An officer from Tiger Vision accompanied the CTC staff, which made the grandparents feel honored and appreciated. The objective of the visit was to encourage the grandmothers to do what they know best, making use of the financial gateway that is available to them.
CTC’s Kenya Director Mr. Jeremiah Kuria, assured the grandparents that it would be our pleasure to see them live above the poverty line and be able to provide and fend for themselves. He further said that CTC would work hand in hand with them until their dreams of being economically stable are realized. In addition, Executive Assistant Teesa Bahana said she felt honored to have been among the team that visited the area. She added that even though the distance is far from the offices, the CTC team still feels connected.
Mr. Charles Wachira GAPA Program Director, further stated that it is only proper for one to be shown how to fish rather than being given fish all the time. This would ensure that they have every reason to work hard for sustainability. The grandparents felt loved all over again because they have always felt like the forgotten lot by the government and the community.
Registration with Tiger Vision SACCO (Savings and Credit Cooperative) for the grandmothers to receive microcredit loans for their income generating activities, is ongoing and the response is quite positive. They are extremely enthusiastic and more than willing to gear up for the fight against Poverty and HIV /AIDS.
The CTC team felt very at home among the grandmothers. The team experienced an overwhelming welcome with open arms and beautiful smiles. They then all enjoyed a cup of sour milk from a traditional gourd, which is a rare commodity. After that, Mr. Jeremiah Kuria, Charles Wachira and Teesa Bahana were all honored by being crowned with Maasai ornaments.
The grandmothers danced in jubilation for what CTC has done for them. Although we could not understand the language, the rhythm, joy and smiles from their faces told it all.The day in Oleirowua and Olasit was a day of special significance for both CTC and the GAPA grandparents.The team topped off the day with a word of prayer in conclusion.
Blog By:
Charles Wachira, CTC HIV/AIDS Program Director
