Kenya, a Nation on the Brink…

Kenya, a nation once on the forefront of economic growth, is reduced to poverty and isolation from the world banking community.

At first glance Kenya reminded me very much of my South African roots. Glancing out of the plane window brought back numerous memories of home. The terrain, high altitude and developed infrastructure alerted me to the fact that Nairobi had seen its day of wealth and glory. A closer look however, soon revealed all the flaws of a failing economy. Greed, corruption, threats of terrorism and AIDS, only serve to exacerbate the helplessness brought about by a cut in funding from the IMF and World Bank.

The new government, in an attempt to grapple with these issues, calls for cabinet ministers to declare their wealth. Meanwhile tourism, once a cash cow, loses its ardent international supporters who were once eager to experience the marvels of African wildlife.

Kenya is an agricultural country, relying heavily on the agricultural sector as the base of economic growth, employment creation and foreign exchange generation. Eighty percent of the Kenyan population lives in rural areas. It is in this challenging climate that World Impact Network will begin its work with national leaders to help bring about community change.

A Reflection from Gabriella van Breda, WIN Executive Director

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