An Update from Charles Cheruiyot in Kenya
Since the announcement of the first case in Kenya, we have witnessed the same global pattern: increase of positive cases, recoveries, and deaths. The recoveries far outnumber the deaths, and this brings about hope.
The Kenyan government has taken measures towards curbing the spread of the virus. All institutions of learning have been closed. Places of worship have also been closed. Social gatherings like weddings and funerals have had the numbers attending limited to only a few people. Quarantine, physical isolation, washing of hands, sanitizers, curfews, masks, and containment of people in specific counties are among the latest measures.
Some of these measures have brought about a change of routine, and uncertainties about livelihoods. Psychological effects resulting from these changes include elevated levels of stress and anxiety, depression, loneliness, harmful use of alcohol and substances, domestic violence, self-harm, and even suicide. However, for life to go on, healthy coping mechanisms are necessary. This will require effort and a flexible mindset if one is to build resilience so as to adapt to the new normal way of doing things.
The greatest fear in Kenya and Africa is the lack of essential commodities like food and clean water, since most of the population here are poor and live on one dollar or less per day. Most companies and businesses have closed and jobs have been lost, and for people to be told to stay home is like putting them in prison without food. The governments in Africa do not have contingency plans for unforeseen calamities like this pandemic, and up to now they have not provided food to the needy people in slums and rural areas where the farming is limited due to harsh climate conditions and weather.
The many calls received by our caregivers is overwhelming since families are going without food, and some are in need of masks and sanitizers (which they are not able to buy or access in rural areas). However, the relief we got from One Kingdom has really alleviated the situation for most families, and we have tried the best we can to buy water cans fitted with taps, soaps, and sanitizers. Those we could not reach from other regions have been sent money to buy what they need in their cities and help their families, members of the church, and their neighbors.
It is our prayer that this pandemic will come to an end soon so that churches can be open and people can move freely as we rebuild our normal lives through business and income-generating activities like farming. The radio broadcasting and social media is also doing wonderful work in giving hope to people and encouraging them to rely on God.
God Bless,
Charles Cheruiyot