Faida S

Marafa is located in southeast Kenya. It is an impoverished community plagued by drought, high illiteracy rates, poor access to health care, and the devastating effects of HIV and AIDS. Nearly 36,000 people reside in Marafa. Main sources of income include the production and sale of charcoal. This has caused great environmental damage but in a time of food scarcity, it cannot be help. One solution is to establish tree nurseries, which could improve the natural environment and provide jobs and income.

Although enrollment in primary schools is high in Marafa, early marriages and teenage pregnancies present a challenge to girls wanting an education. Boys are affected by child labor. And because of chronic food shortages, families move from place to place in search of odd jobs, making education inconsistent. Access to clean water for drinking and irrigation is needed.

World Vision has worked hard to help the people of Marafa. Accomplishments include constructing classrooms, providing desks, sports equipment, and teaching materials. Homes were built for 30 families and food supplements were distributed to children and families.

Microfinance is helping to make a difference. The Kenya Agency for Development of Enterprise and Technology. For every $1,000 loaned, 13 jobs are created or sustained. And approximately half of loan recipients are women.