Imagine putting a group of twenty immensely intelligent young leaders together in the middle of nowhere! One thing you can be sure of is craziness and fun. However on top of that it was indeed a truly inspiring and a motivational two day get away for all of us. The Malta camp was organized by the Norwegian Church Aid for young leaders cutting across the divide. Right from globe-trotters in policy formulation and advocacy to the practical ground-implementing persons.
It is worthwhile to note that this was an extraordinary experience for all since most trainings and meetings we have been conducting had all been indoors in hotels and guests houses! Well everything has got its first time. The venue was as wild as can be and as serene in an ideal way. It is located near Sagana on a vast range of land undiluted with any modernity, left entirely natural. Temperatures were always high during the day, occasionally we managed to see a few lizards and snakes. To crown it all, we slept in tents. It was a thrilling yet captivating outdoor experience.
Of great importance was when the brains of these crazy young people were engaged. It’s important to note that the Kenya National Youth Climate Network began its activities early on in the year at Kasarani Sports View Hotel with only ten participants. The Malta experience brought in 20 people. Talk of 100 % growth in less than a year.
At one time we got to carefully examine our country. Kenya suffers from a myriad of problems, ranging from corruption, nepotism, negative ethnicity and high levels of unemployment and poverty. Despite these, young people still show great optimism and hope for the future of the country. We came to the realization that if things are to get any better, we have to be more proactive rather than reactive to circumstances. We were challenged to get more involved in leadership and court power as we came to the realization that power is never given, it is seized.
One session highly appreciated was that of Mr. Paul Mbole of NCA. He gave a captivating talk and his entire session was thought provoking, mind boggling and above all action inciting. He opened our eyes towards more than what we normally see. It is therefore little wonder that his challenges to us formed part of our resolution and set targets.
Serious during the day, but equally at ease at night, participants’ passion was showed during the bonfires when they sang all manner of crazy patriotic songs (‘kupedikale’ is a national song….) and all manner of ‘mchongoano’ (bamba 20 knows himself)
It indeed was a truly fantastic experience which anyone (I know I would) wish to relieve again. Watch out though, because the people from the Malta camp are on fire to actualize whatever was learnt.
There is no word that can perfectly describe the experience. The only word that comes close is….AWESOME.
By Clayton Opiyo
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