The moment we lifted off the ground in that empty 767 out of Nairobi, it became clear that we all need a little perspective on the current conflict in Kenya.
So, for the time being, 8 Months will leave the news reporting to the people on the ground: bloggers, mega-media houses and local press.
An American friend who has lived in Kenya for about 40 years told me recently that the media are not providing enough context to what is happening.
Why is the international community surprised by this violent manifestation of tribalism in Kenya?
Why are some urban Kenyans surprised by it as well?
What are these old grudges based on?
How can they be reconciled, particularly given the violence that is ongoing across the country?
Do you want to weigh in on any of those questions? Meanwhile, I'm looking for some voices here in the UK (Kenyan and otherwise) who might have something informative to say.
Cheers.
i found your blog the other day and was wondering how your travels are going..
amani
Posted by: nehanda | January 22, 2008 at 05:43 AM
Hi Amani,
My travels are going fine.
I am still working, despite the lack of posts lately.
Today I go to Oxford to talk to a mzee mzungu about Kenyan history. Funny to have left a country full of experts, to now be interviewing an "official expert." It's an old journalistic error. But I am curious to hear what he has to say.
There is also a post on its way from a Kenyan who has been living in London for many years.
And an article from me about domestic press.
So... thanks for checking in. And stay tuned!
Sara
Posted by: Sara Nics | January 22, 2008 at 10:34 AM
Sara, my wife grew up in Kenya and we've got family living in Nairobi right now. We are really enjoying your blog. Can't wait to hear what the "official expert" has to say. Enjoy your time away in the UK.
Mark
Posted by: Mark | January 22, 2008 at 05:09 PM