Violence

In my last post, I wrote about key questions to ask before adding ICTs to a development initiative, using the example of a violence against children program I’m working on in Benin. The piece that was missing, and which came together over the past 2 weeks, was the view from the ground.

August 19, 2009, Umoja Uaso, Kenya: A gunman has attacked a leading Kenyan women's initiative in Northern Kenya, threatening its members and chasing residents out of their homes.

29^th October 2007 – 1200hrs

“A Ranger was killed and another was wounded in an attack yesterday near Kabaraza carried out by the Mai Mai rebels. I learned this late yesterday. The Rangers were on patrol and were ambushed by the Mai Mai rebels, who are fairly dominant in this area just north of Rutshuru. During these tense times anything can happen. And this just goes to show it.”

A few weeks ago, Sokari and I posted the Kenyans: you are not alone entry to the Kabissa blog. Since then, I am struck by how all eyes around the world have been on Kenya since the flawed election. This new site, iHaveNoTribe.com, is yet another wonderful example of individuals taking matters into their own hands to counter the bad news and hopefully contribute to a wave of good will that will help put an end to the violence. It is attracting attention - I learned about it on National Public Radio's The World program (nice Drupal site!) this afternoon.