Micah Chebus
As a Research Associate, my recent expedition took me to Narok County, Kenya, where I delved into data collection endeavor on behalf of Progress Inc., primarily focusing on the two pivotal educational institutions, including Maasai Girls Secondary School and Suswa Girls Secondary School. My mission, commissioned by FAWE and implemented by FAWE Kenya and ENAI, was to conduct an end-term evaluation in response to the alarming surge in teenage pregnancies exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The gravity of the task at hand was not lost on me as I embarked on this transformative journey.
Immersing myself in the local communities has always been a passion of mine, driven by an insatiable curiosity to understand their cultural practices and ways of life. During this particular field trip, I had the privilege of engaging with the Maasai community, commonly known as “The MAA Community,” where I gleaned firsthand insights into their rich cultural tapestry and time-honored traditions.
Researching in Kenya afforded me a remarkable opportunity and experience to immerse myself in diverse communities and cultures as well as stunning natural beauty the country has to offer. From the majestic expanse of the Great Rift Valley Escarpment in Mai Mahiu town to the vibrant tapestry of daily life in Narok County, each moment was imbued with significance and learning. Narok County is situated along the Great Rift Valley in the Southern part of the Country and is ranked to be 11th largest county in Kenya. It is a cosmopolitan county with Maasai being the dominant ethnic group. [1]
This fieldwork experience proved to be invaluable, offering me profound insights and invaluable lessons that have undoubtedly enriched my researching professional journey. In essence, this journey was not just about data collection; it was a deeply personal voyage of discovery, appreciation, and growth, leaving an indelible mark on my professional and personal narrative.
[1] https://narok.go.ke/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/NAROK-CIDP-2018-2022.pdf