Tag Archives: AIDS
Like Obama
Posted on February 28, 2009 by Barak in Africa | No Comments
I’m famous now. I don’t even bother to avoid the inevitable. I just introduce myself as “Barak… like Obama” and make cheesy jokes about being his white brother. Doesn’t matter – people love it and I make instant friends. These women were absolutely priceless – from Obama’s nearby village and all three living out incredible stories as they battle AIDS in their community and in themselves. Stepping into their homes (behind me in the photo) I could only sit in awe of what they struggle with daily, and yet their hope is self-evident. If only I could bottle it and bring it home with me. We need it here desperately.
AIDS Kills
Posted on February 27, 2009 by Barak in Africa | No Comments
This was a sign nailed to a tree at the entrance of a school nestled between three slums in Nakuru Kenya. AIDS in Kenya is at an all time high of 8% and rates are typically higher than this in urban areas, especially where poverty has a stronghold on the population. In stark contrast to the sobering message, this school and the others that I visited where bubbling with excited children. I pray their future is as vibrant as their laughter.
Jijue One Million
Posted on February 22, 2009 by Barak in Africa | No Comments
One of several concerts Jars of Clay gave in Nairobi along with other amazing local artists performed as part of the Jijue One Million Campaign – a campaign whose goal is to see 1 million Kenyans tested. Jijue is swahili and is a slang term that embodies the idea of confidence through self-knowledge. In a country where 1 out of 12 are HIV positive and only 3 in 5 know their status, this self knowledge is critical in halting infection rates in Kenya. The week Jars performed in Nairobi, nearly 4,000 people were tested. An amazing start to the campaign.
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