Korogocho

KOROGOCHO, nicknamed “Koch” by locals is the third largest informal settlement in Nairobi. Roughly the size of 5 football fields, it is a cramped settlement of mud walled, corrugated tin shacks segmented by trash strewn roads and open sewers. There is real hunger here and residents must cope with corrupt local boards, clannism and horrendous crime. Babies as young as 6 months are routinely raped and children are targets for every conceivable sexual torture. Prosecution of sexual predators is almost unheard of. The sad truth is the vast majority of sexual assaults go unreported as victims face brutal retaliatory violence.

On the positive side there is a new generation of internet savvy Kenyan activists bringing a larger global view to this community. Opportunities may be scarce but these young people spend their time volunteering for causes they believe in. While some may dream of one day escaping life in Korogocho this new generation seems determined to stick around and improve it!