Today was the our first full day at the Ken River Lodge. We woke up at 6.30 filled with excitement for the day ahead of us. We assembled at the meeting point next to the dining hall (most of us half asleep), once the entire crew was present we moved into the dining hall to eat our first delicious breakfast at the lodge. After a short break and lots of chai, we gathered around the fires to play fun games to get us warmed up for the day after which we had briefings on our code of conduct, medical information and hygiene. We then had detailed discussions about risk management in our baraza groups specifically learning about problems and solutions (apples and onions).
After our morning of bonding, we had a scrumptious lunch and began to prepare for the construction site. We boarded the bus and started moving to the village for the inauguration ceremony. Two students from the crew, Nirvaan and Bella addressed the gathering and shared their thoughts with the people of the community. We were welcomed by the villagers with their local folk dance and traditional music, after which we were enlightened by the adult Round Square Leadership Team. We had the ribbon cutting ceremony which marked the opening of the project site. We were given a brief about the rules and safety measures of the site and were introduced to the local architects and builders who would be guiding us throughout our construction process
Ben split us into two groups; one working upstairs laying the bricks with mortar and one group downstairs measuring, shovelling sand and compacting the foundations of the library. Over the course of the session, we bonded on a stronger level, knowing we had just begun our unforgettable journey. After about two whole hours of work, we were very ready to head back for hopefully some more chai and bonfire time. Once we were back to our lodge and had our evening snack, we all refreshed before heading for our piping hot dinner.
After our dinner, we sat for our discussions in our Baraza groups, and headed to our cottages for a well sought-after good night’s sleep.
We are so, so thankful for such an amazing first day, and look forward to the coming memories to be made.
With lots of love
Kuchanganya
