aiesec kenya reception booklet

AIESEC Kenya

Kenya Reception Booklet

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Karibu (welcome) to Kenya Dear Incoming Intern, Welcome to Kenya and congratulations on your internship. Kenya is the world's forty-seventh largest country. Kenya is named after the highest peak in Kenya-Mount Kenya

This booklet will provide you with all the important information you need before starting your internship in incredible Kenya. Please take the time to go through it. It will help ensure that you have an amazing time in a new cultural environment and make the most of your time here. Remember, we as AIESEC in Kenya are dedicated to make sure you have an incredible time and that all your expectations are met. Contact details can be found later in the booklet if you have any questions. We look forward to meeting you very soon! Once again Karibu Kenya

On behalf of AIESEC Kenya George Waweru

MC VPICX 2010/2011


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CONTENT 1. Basic procedure............................................................................ ………………………….4 2. Information about Kenya General Information....................................................................................................6 Governance of Kenya……………………………………………….............................6 Provinces.......................................................................................................................7 Basic Facts....................................................................................................................8 3. The culture in Kenya Ethnicity and Language................................................................................................9 People and language.....................................................................................................9 Kenya Art and artifacts................................................................................................9 Music and dance.........................................................................................................10 Religion.......................................................................................................................10 Food and Diet.............................................................................................................10 4. Life in Kenya Money matters.............................................................................................................11 Kenya’s Economy........................................................................................................11 Transportation............................................................................................................12 Entertainment.............................................................................................................13 Work Ethic..................................................................................................................13 Dress code and etiquette.............................................................................................13 Shopping.....................................................................................................................14 5. Your internship in Kenya Introduction..................................................................................................................15 Getting to the Kenya....................................................................... ………………………..16 Visa and passport Information.....................................................................................16 Health and Safety……….................................................................................................17 Accommodation...........................................................................................................18 Mobile providers..........................................................................................................18 Expectation setting.......................................................................................................19 Stuff to bring.................................................................................................................20 6. Nairobi Capital City…………………………………………………………………………21 7. AIESEC Kenya Information............................................................. …….23 8. Appendix Local Committees.......................................................................................................24 Basic Kiswahili............................................................................................................24 Top 10 Destinations....................................................................................................25 Fun Facts....................................................................................................................27


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1. Basic Procedure After MATCH Procedures:

a) After the matching takes place wait for the company acceptance note from AIESEC Kenya. This is an important document. The acceptance note proves the company written agreement to take you as an intern.

b) The Company/Institution you are going to have the internship in is responsible

for arranging appropriate visa as well as all the other legalities. Please, send all the required documents on time, to fasten the process

c) Send your arrival form/details at least a month in advance. This form must

clearly state the day, time and place of your arrival (including flight number). Remember we must have at least one month in advance in order to arrange your accommodation.

d) Finally, do confirm either via fax, phone or e-mail all information about your

arrival one week before your arrival. We will then pick you up at the designated place

e) Feel free to ask us for anything you feel you need to know before your arrival. We

are going to provide you with the regular required information. If you need k now more let us know.


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2. Information about Kenya:

The Republic of Kenya is a country in East Africa; Kenya is bordered by Somalia Ethiopia to the north, Sudan to the northwest, Uganda to the west and Tanzania to the south. Lake Victoria is to the southwest and is shared between Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. Kenya has numerous wildlife reserves, containing thousands of animal species. The capital city is Nairobi. Kenya's area is 580,000 km2 with a population of nearly 39 million which is diverse: more than 40 different ethnic groups are present. The country is named after Mount Kenya, a significant landmark and second among Africa's highest mountain peaks.

Kenya receives a great deal of sunshine all the year round and summer clothes are worn throughout the year. It is usually cool at night and early in the morning. The long rain season occurs from April to June. The short rain season occurs from October to December. The rainfall is sometimes heavy and often falls in the afternoons and evenings. The hottest period is from February to March and coldest in July to August.

Kenya has considerable land area of wildlife habitat, including the Masai Mara, where Blue Wildebeest and other bovid participate in a large scale annual migration. Up to 250,000 blue wildebeest perish each year in the long and arduous movement to find forage in the dry season

The "Big Five" animals of Africa can be found in Kenya: the lion, leopard, buffalo, rhinoceros and elephant. A significant population of other wild animals, reptiles and birds can be found in the national parks and game reserves in the country

The annual animal migration - especially migration of the wildebeest - occurs between June and September with millions of animals taking part. (considered the 7th wonder of the world)


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Governance of Kenya

Current president Mwai Kibaki

Kenya is a presidential representative democratic republic, whereby the President is both the head of state and head of government, and of a multi-party system. Executive power is exercised by the government. Legislative power is vested in both the government and the National Assembly. The Judiciary is independent of the executive and the legislature. There was growing concern especially during former president Daniel arap Moi's tenure that the executive was increasingly meddling with the affairs of the judiciary.


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Current Prime Minister Raila Odinga

On 28 February 2008, Kibaki and Odinga signed an agreement on the formation of a coalition government in which Odinga would become Kenya's second prime Minister. The office of the PM has the power and authority; to co-ordinate and supervise the functions of the Government.

The government is generally perceived as investment friendly and has enacted several regulatory reforms to simplify both foreign and local investment. An increasingly significant portion of Kenya's foreign inflows is from remittances by non-resident Kenyans who work in the US, Middle East, Europe and Asia. Compared to its neighbors, Kenya has a well developed social and physical infrastructure making it an attractive alternative location to South Africa, for major corporations seeking entry into the African continent.

Kenya comprises eight provinces each headed by a Provincial Commissioner


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Basic Kenya Facts

Currency

Kenya shilling (KES).

Electric Voltage

Current is 220/240AC 50HZ.

Language Swahili and English are the official languages in Kenya. Swahili is the national language while English is the business language. Kenyans speak other local languages as well.

Holidays & Business Hours

In addition to Christmas and Easter holidays, Kenya celebrates nine public holidays. Most businesses, banks, schools and government offices remain closed during Kenyan public holidays. {Labor day (May 1st), Madaraka Day-Commemoration of Freedom fighters (June 1st), Mashuja Day (October 20th), Jamhuri Day-Independence 12th December}

Kenya Newspapers

There are eight major local newspapers.

Temperature 45 - 93°F on average. More about the climate and weather in Kenya

Time Zone GMT +3

Topography

Low-lying coastal region fringed with coral reefs and islands; some dry regions covered with savannah and thorn bush; rich plateaus (highlands) as high as 10,000 ft.; and arid and semi-arid northern Kenya.

Internet code .ke

Mobile phone service provider

Safaricom, Zain (highly recommended), YU, Orange (landlines)


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Kenya's population has rapidly increased over the past several decades, and consequently it is relatively young. Some 73% of Kenyans are under 30 In 80 years; Kenya's population has grown from 2.9 million to 37 million. Kenya is a country of great ethnic diversity. Most Kenyans are bilingual in English and. Large percentages speak the mother tongue of their ethnic tribe.

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The Kenyan population is comprised of more than 40 ethnic groups, each with its own unique dialect. As Kenya's national languages, Swahili and English bridge the communication gap and unite Kenyans as a single nation.

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.

Kenya culture is a fascinating way of life that blends the traditions of thousands of years of African social evolution with the modern influences of the 20th century. The multifaceted culture of Kenya is expressed in different forms, ranging from its people and language, food, music and dance, art, artifacts, theatre and literature to its ethnic values and ethical norms. Combined with other traditions, these forms of expression and lifestyle form an identity that is uniquely Kenyan.

Another fascinating aspect of Kenyan culture is the art and artifacts that Kenya's different ethnic groups craft manually, using readily available local materials. Beautifully carved wood sculptures showing exquisite detail and craftsmanship are produced in large quantities and sold to tourists both locally and abroad.


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Music & Dance

Traditional music and dance is an integral part of Kenyans' social and religious lives, and forms an important part of Kenya culture. In Kenya, harmonious beats and rhythm are central parts of dance, which is traditionally backed by drums and guitar instruments. One of the most popular Kenyan styles of music is benga, a traditional contemporary dance from the 1960s. Taarab music, another typical Kenyan entertainment, is inspired by Arab and Indian immigrants and is popular along the coast of Kenya. Kenyans also enjoy afro-fusion

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Religion percent Protestant 45% Roman Catholic 33% Islam 10% Indigenous 10% Other 2%

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The Kenyan diet is comprised of foods rich in ethnic diversity. Popular staple foods include ugali, rice, bread, chapatti (a type of Indian bread), beef, chicken, goat, tilapia and an assortment of fresh vegetables and fruits.

Nyama choma is regarded as Kenya's national dish. Nyama choma is a form of charcoal-grilled beef or goat meat, and is very popular in authentic Kenyan restaurants and pubs. In times of celebration and on special occasions such as Christmas and wedding ceremonies, it is customary for Kenyans to kill and roast a goat or cow.

The Kenyan diet also includes tea. In fact, in Kenya, anytime is tea time. When it comes to drinks, Kenya tea in the form of Chai (tea with milk and sugar) is the beverage of choice. It is served for breakfast, at mealtimes and also during Kenya's regular teatime. Clearly, Kenya culture embraces many different cultural influences: teatime is a custom


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borrowed from the British colonial past and the Chai style of cooking tea originated in India

Another popular social drink, and one that also makes a good accompaniment for nyama choma, is Kenya's signature-brand beer – Tusker

4. Life in Kenya

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Kenya’s Economy

Economic summary

GDP

$17.43 billion (2005) at Market Price. $ 41.36 billion (Purchasing Power Parity, 2006)

There exists an informal economy that is never counted as part of the official GDP figures.

Annual growth rate 5.8% (2005): 2006 = 6.1% : Estimate for 2007 = 7.2%

Per capita income Per Capita Income (PPP)= $1,200

Natural resources Wildlife, land (5% arable)

Agricultural produce tea, coffee, sugarcane, horticultural products, corn, wheat, rice, sisal, pineapples, pyrethrum, dairy products, meat and meat products, hides, skins

Industry petroleum products, grain and sugar milling, cement, beer, soft drinks, textiles, vehicle assembly, paper and light manufacturing, tourism

Most major currencies are accepted and you can convert to Kenya shillings at the nearest bank or Forex Bureau. Although the Kenya shilling often fluctuates, it is always much lower in value compared to other major currencies such as the US dollar, the sterling pound or the Euro. Use the currency converter to get an up-to-date currency value.

Credits Cards are widely accepted in all major hotels and establishments, with the most recognized being Master Card and Visa. However, you will need some cash handy because smaller shops will only accept cash.

Major Banks are widely available throughout Kenya. Operations are Monday to Friday of 9am - 3pm, Saturday 9am-1pm. Kenya's banks are closed on Sundays and public holidays.


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Trade

Exports $2.2 billion Tea, coffee, horticultural products, petroleum products, cement, pyrethrum, soda ash, sisal, hides and skins, fluorspar

Major markets Uganda, United Kingdom, Tanzania, Netherlands, United States, Pakistan

Imports $3.2 billion machinery, vehicles, crude petroleum, iron and steel, resins and plastic materials, refined petroleum products, pharmaceuticals, paper and paper products, fertilizers, wheat

Major suppliers United Kingdom, Japan, South Africa, Germany, United Arab Emirates, Italy, India, France, United States, Saudi Arabia

Transportation You will be wondering how to get around in Kenya. (You have not experienced Kenya until you experience the ‘Matatus’). Transport in Kenya is affordable.

Matatus In Nairobi matatus, which technically means, "thirty cents for a ride" (nowadays much more) are privately owned minibuses, and the most popular form of local transport and generally seat fourteen to twenty-four. Matatus operate within Nairobi and from Nairobi to other towns. The matatu's destination is imprinted on the side of the bus, and matatus plying specific routes have specific route numbers. Matatus were easily distinguishable by their extravagant paint schemes .

Buses Buses are increasingly common in the city. The three bus companies operating the city routes are the traditional Kenya Bus Service (KBS), and newer private operators Citi Hoppa and Double M. The Citi Hoppa buses are distinguishable by their green livery, the Double M buses are painted purple while the KBS buses are painted blue.

Smartbus Smartbus-Kenya is the latest bus operator in Kenya and serves Nairobi and the areas around it. Passengers have a smartcard which they must swipe in order to gain access to the vehicle. Passengers top up their smartcard and the fare is deducted from the amount of money in the account. The fare is determined by the point at which the passenger enters and the point at which the passenger exits the bus.

Taxi Taxis are available in most parts of the city. They are costly in comparison to matatus and buses but are a safer and more convenient form of transport. They park outside most hotels, at taxi ranks in the city centre and at shopping malls.


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Entertainment

Nairobi offers the most choices for entertainment in Kenya, with an assortment of casinos, nightclubs, and movie theaters. The main theaters offer Hollywood features, with an assortment of Hindi films showing in many of the smaller cinemas. Outside of the capital, Mombasa is the only other area offering any variety of entertainment. Dhow trips are one of the more unique experiences. These cruises may be taken during daylight or in the evening hours after dark. The trips are expensive, but typically include a gourmet meal. Nairobi and Mombasa both offer a good selection of dance clubs. Some clubs offer live entertainment in Nairobi, otherwise most feature discos with a DJ. Local theaters are located in Nairobi and Mombasa, providing productions of popular plays. Many hotels and lodges provide evening entertainment. Often this will include traditional tribal dancing. This is truly entertaining and not to be missed. The Maasai show their tremendous athletic skills in their dances featuring leaping contests. The dances are accompanied with traditional tribal songs.

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smartbus

taxi

citi hoppa matatu


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One thing I would readily say of the job market in Kenya is that Kenyans are hard working.

The work week is Monday to Friday for all public sector organizations. Thus public sector employees and many businesses enjoy a 2 day, (Saturday-Sunday) weekend. Others even work a 6 day week. Sunday is a common off day for Kenyans, majority go to church.

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When you’re packing for your internship to Kenya, bring light-to-moderate casual wear such as cargo pants, jeans, cotton shirts and the like. The dress code in Kenyan culture is conservative. Also, many Kenyans adhere to different cultural, religious and customary dress styles. Jeans and decent tops/blouses for ladies are perfect. If you are going for business, you can keep it business-casual; however, business suits, tie and formal wear are preferred. Swimsuits are acceptable at the beach but not in public places.

Evening Wear: Kenyans dress up for special occasions, especially when going out clubbing/dancing, to church, to sporting and other events or out to dinner. In some restaurants and clubs, you will probably be fine wearing shorts and a t-shirt, but if you are considering dining at one of the more up-scale restaurants or having a social night out, you may want to show off your nicer clothing and join the party!

EtiquetteKenyans are very humble, friendly and social people. Shaking hands is a common greeting gesture and you are always welcome to strike a conversation with the person next to you. Just remember to respect Kenya's customs and culture in whatever you do and you will enjoy a pleasant relationship with its people.

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If you'd like to take home more than just memories of your trip to Kenya, you'll find a wide range of local products that make ideal souvenirs or gifts. Kenyan products are as diverse and unique as the country itself. There are traditional artifacts, fantastic jewelry, beautiful carvings, the world's best coffee, precious stones, furniture, beautiful cloth, excellent local music, wonderful modern art and so much more to be found. Bargaining is the expected norm in Markets and even in some shops throughout Kenya. The art of bargaining has deep roots in Kenyan culture, and is regarded as an essential business skill.


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5. YOU’RE INTERNSHIP IN KENYA

INTRODUCTION When you arrive in Kenya you will be assigned an “Intern Buddy”. It is your Intern

Buddy’s responsibility to take care of you for the duration of your internship,

and they will be your main point of contact.

Your intern buddy will make sure that there your accommodation and pickup

is sorted out before you land in Kenya. He/she is also responsible for making sure that

you get integrated into the society, learn about the culture here, and have a good time on

your traineeship in Kenya. He/she will communicate with you, before and during your

traineeship, and it is expected that you communicate with him/her as well.

Your buddy will be in charge of arranging reception activities: trips and social gatherings

and involve you in the Local Committee’s activities and entertainment.

Your Buddy will be able to show you around and help you find the necessary amenities

during your stay. Make the most of your time in the Kenya and make it an enlightening

experience for yourself and for all those around you. Moving on, if you really want to get

integrated into the society, it is important that you also meet out other interns, who are

on traineeships in Kenya. AIESEC Kenya events help bond, not only the interns, but also

the Local Committee, Member Committee and alumni into one huge AIESEC network.

AIESEC Kenya has a good network of interns who often meet every Tuesday and go away

for weekend escapades with AIESEC Kenya members to tour Kenya, (camping, hiking,

safaris) for more information on intern servicing contact [email protected]

Google group- AIESEC Kenya Trainees; Here you can share any new information , make plans, find out what is happening on a weekend or simply meet other interns and AIESEC members. http://groups.google.com/group/aiesec-kenya-trainees FACEBOOK group- please search(AIESEC KENYA TRAINEESHIP.)


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Getting to Kenya

There are two international airports in Kenya:

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Before you buy your airline ticket to Kenya, you want to be sure that you either have everything you need or will be able to get it once you arrive in Kenya. Depending on your nationality or country of origin, you may need to apply for and receive a visa before visiting Kenya. It is important that you do so immediately upon making the decision to travel to the country, and that you make sure your visa does not expire during your travel. You can apply for and get a Kenya visa from your nearest Kenyan embassy or consulate.

Not everyone needs a Kenya visa. You can download a full list of nationals who need and do not need a Kenya visa. If you are an American or European citizen, you will need a visa to enter Kenya.

Also, make sure you have a current and valid passport, that it is not about to expire. Expect that your passport could take up to six weeks to arrive, so make sure you plan well in advance for your passport needs. As a rule, your passport should expire no sooner than six months before the end your travel.

When making preparations for your passport, it is advisable to make several copies of the actual passport or visa (in addition to the original). This is for your own safety because the last thing you want to do is to be out of your home country without any way to provide proof of your identity, should you lose your passport. You should leave one of the copies at home before you travel, just in case. When you travel with the original passport, always keep it locked up safely, in a hotel safe or other secure location.

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi - It is the largest airport and the main arrival point for most visitors. A major gateway to Kenya, JKIA offers both domestic, African, regional and international connections. It is very easy to use and there are a lot of transportation options available to get from the airport into town.

The Mombasa International Airport (MBA) in Mombasa - It is Kenya's second largest international airport, mainly serving tourists and business people entering Kenya's coastal region.


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HHeeaalltthh aanndd SSaaffeettyy

HHeeaalltthh

Before you travel to Kenya, make sure that you are up to date on all immunizations. Although there are currently no inoculations that you must have when traveling to Kenya, if you intend to visit other countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Egypt, or other such areas that may be deemed infected, you will need inoculations. In such cases, you should make sure you have the following immunizations (depending on the specific area you intend to visit):

Hepatitis (A and B) Typhoid Tetanus Yellow Fever Malaria Prescription

Other health advice when traveling to Kenya is to make sure you protect yourself from mosquito bites, which could lead to malaria. Some protective measures against mosquito bites include wearing long sleeved shirts/blouses and long pants, using mosquito repellent with a minimum of 30 percent DEET, and using mosquito nets. If you will be traveling to the Kenyan coast or Western Kenya, it is advisable to take anti-malaria pills.

Look into purchasing travel and medical insurance while abroad, just in case something happens. These types of short-term insurance services are available through some travel agencies and medical insurance companies. They may also be part of the services you already receive with your credit cards, so check with your credit card company. It is better to play it safe than end up sorry.

Incase of a health or emergency situation while in Kenya, you may need this contact information.

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In general people are extremely friendly in Kenya and you will be humbled by their hospitality. But, there is real poverty in Kenya and you will soon realize that you are far richer and more fortunate than most local people you meet. You will probably

Before you leave for Kenya, make sure you have the following:

Valid Passport Arrival Ticket Return Ticket Adequate Funds Visa (if required)


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attract your fair share of souvenir hawkers and beggars, but try and take the time to meet ordinary people going about their day to day business too. The experience will be worth it. Don't be afraid to step out of that tour bus, just take some precautions.

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For accommodation different local chapters have different arrangements for accommodation. Most interns will be lucky to have free accommodation in a host family; most of the time being of an AIESEC member. The host families welcome you with open arms and take you as part of the family during and after your stay in the house. (Beware most local families will expect you to eat a huge meal every time ;-). Other options are usually; living with a family and paying some money to subsidize for the food.

MMoobbiillee pphhoonnee Kenya residents use heir mobile phones all the time and it is very useful if you have a mobile phone during your internship. We advise you to bring your mobile phone to Kenya and once here buy a SIM card cards can be bought from supermarkets, airports, mini markets, hotels, petrol stations and telecoms offices. On receiving the SIM card you can start using it immediately. You will need to bring your passport copy or an identification card. However, as an intern it is advisable to use the ZAIN provider An AIESEC member will help you in getting a sim card.


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EExxppeeccttaattiioonn SSeettttiinngg What can expect from AIESEC Kenya?

You’re Responsibilities as an Intern Facilitate cultural exchange and

discuss your problems with AIESEC members.

Do your job with a positive attitude and to the best of your abilities.

Complete expectation setting with us so we both can ensure we are meeting each other’s expectations.

Fill in the measurement surveys and give us feedback

Help us help you this is only possible if you communicate with us about any problems, concerns and expectations. Many things may not be obvious to us and we need you to tell us. Ask us lots of questions!!!

Never miss a party, because this is where you get to interact with the members and interns in the LC and many other interesting people.

Our Responsibilities as Hosts Communicate with you before you arrive to ensure you are prepared for your trip. Pick you up at the point of your

arrival Help you with arranging

accommodation Help you with all the regular daily

functions (shopping, taking the bus, getting a bank account, how to use the telephones, how to order food etc.)

Take you to the organization on the first day of your internship

Be there to answer questions and provide support whenever we can

Help you get integrated into the culture

Provide activities that can teach you about the Vietnamese culture and lifestyle

Provide you with names and a telephone list of the AIESEC members in your LC as well as information about upcoming events or activities.


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There are few things that you should not forget to include into your luggage when

coming

Your favorites CD’s and books

Some pictures of your loved ones

Some typical sweets or dishes

Your National flag and all sorts of presentation materials make a cultural

presentation for the AIESECers here.

Some recipes of your traditional dishes

Some small souvenirs; families may host you and it would be nice if you can

leave them some presents from your country.

Sleeping bag and/or bed sheets

If you take any sort of medicine, bring the prescription with you.

If you wear glasses and contact lenses, also bring the prescription with you.

Mosquito repellent


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6. Nairobi-Capital City

Climate Nairobi enjoys a moderate climate Parks Nairobi has many parks and open spaces throughout the city. The city has dense tree-cover and plenty of green spaces. The most famous park in Nairobi is Uhuru Park. The park borders the central business district and the neighborhood Upper Hill. Uhuru (Freedom) Park is a centre for outdoor speeches, services and rallies. Economy Nairobi is home to the Nairobi Stock Exchange (NSE), one of Africa's largest. The NSE was officially recognized as an overseas stock exchange by the London Stock Exchange in 1953. The exchange is Africa's 4th largest (in terms of trading volumes) and 5th (in terms of Market Capitalization as a percentage of GDP).

Nairobi is the regional headquarters of several international companies and organizations. In 2007, General Electric, Young & Rubicam, Google, Coca Cola, Zain and Cisco Systems relocated their African headquarters to the city. The United Nations Office at Nairobi hosts UNEP and UN-Habitat headquarters.

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Nairobi is a cosmopolitan and multicultural city. Since its foundation, Nairobi has maintained a strong British presence, and a lasting legacy from colonial rule. This is highlighted by the number of English-named suburbs, including Hurlingham and Parklands.

As Nairobi has a diverse and multicultural composition, there are a number of churches, mosques, temples and gurdwaras within the city. Prominent places of worship in Nairobi include the Cathedral Basilica of the Holy Family, All Saints Cathedral, Ismaili Jamat Khana and Jamia Mosque.

Nairobi has two informal nicknames. The first is "The Green City in the Sun", which is derived from the city's foliage and warm climate. The second is the "Safari Capital of the World", which is used due to Nairobi's prominence as a hub for safari tourism.

Nairobi is the capital and largest city of Kenya. The city and its surrounding area also form the Nairobi Province. Nairobi continues to be the primary communication and financial hub of East Africa. It enjoys the region's best transportation linkages, communications infrastructure, and trained personnel. A wide range of foreign firms maintain regional branch or representative offices in the city.


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There are a number of modern malls in the Nairobi Area, including: West Gate, Prestige, Village Market, Sarit Center, Junction, etc. These malls attract Kenyans from all walks of life,

Places we recommend you to visit in Nairobi

Nairobi National Park Karen Blixen Museum Bomas of Kenya Giraffe Centre David Sheldrick Centre

Sites and Scenes of Nairobi


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7. AIESEC Kenya Information

Member Committee Office: AIESEC in Kenya Address: University of Nairobi, Gandhi wing Tel: +020 260 8757 Email: [email protected] Web: www.aiesec.or/ke Responsible person from the national team: Member Committee Vice-President Incoming Exchange George Waweru Tel: +254 725 127 261 Email: [email protected] Must Watch Kenyan Experience Videos!!! Click the Following Videos; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7_qoCM-gxYw http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jk-qqtOkXrY http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5kIdjtPmKa4&feature=related


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8. APPENDIX

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For more about our local committees contact [email protected]

Translations

Basic Swahili Phrases for Travelers

Many Kenyans speak English, knowing a few words of Swahili will really help you out in the more rural areas and along the coast. Since Swahili is a first language to most Kenyans, they'll understand a little broken Swahili, and they'll certainly appreciate your efforts.

Greetings

Hello = Jambo / hujambo / Salama

How are you? = Habari gani Fine (response) = Nzuri Goodbye = Kwa heri Nice to meet you = Nafurahi

kukuona Goodnight = Lala salama

Civ

ilit

ies

Ye

s =

Ndi

yo

N

o =

Hap

ana

Than

k yo

u =

Asa

nte

Plea

se =

Taf

adha

li

O

K =

Sawa

Excu

se m

e =

Sam

ahan

i

You'

re W

elco

me

= St

areh

e

Ca

n yo

u he

lp m

e? =

Ta

fadh

ali,

naom

ba

msa

ada

Wha

t is

you

r na

me?

=

Jina

lako

nan

i?

M

y na

me

is =

Jin

a la

ngu

ni

...

I'

m f

rom

.. =

Nat

okea

...

Ju

st a

litt

le b

it =

Kid

ogo

tu!

U

nase

maj

e ...

kwa

Ki

swah

ili

I

don'

t un

ders

tand

=

Siel

ewi

Fr

iend

= R

afik

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10 Amazing Tourist Sites

If you have time and resources and you want to tour Kenya here are 10 recommended destinations that are a must see (hidden treasures)

1. The Masaai Mara

If you want to see the 'big five' in one morning, Masai Mara in western Kenya is the place to be. During the dry season from July to October the wildlife spectacle is unparalleled. Nowhere else can you watch the annual migration of over a million wildebeest from a hot-air balloon. The 'Mara' is as close to "Out of Africa" as you can get.

2. Lamu

Lamu is one of Kenya's oldest towns, settled by the Swahili about 700 years ago. More recently discovered by backpackers, Lamu is a great place to unwind and wash off the dirt

and grime accumulated from some hard traveling. No matatus or mini-buses here, just donkeys and the sound of the ocean waves. You can take a Dhow and explore the islands or

enjoy wandering the narrow alleys of Lamu's old town.

3. Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru is famous for its huge flocks of flamingos that enjoy the alkaline waters of this shallow soda lake. Other than 1 million flamingos and many more species of birds, the park is also home to white rhino, warthog, giraffe, hippo, ostrich, and lion. Lake Nakuru is

slowly recovering from several environmental pressures that caused its flamingo population to decline in the 1990's.

4. Mount Kenya

Mount Kenya is Africa's second highest peak and you don't need special training to reach its

two main peaks - Batian (5200m) and Nelion (5188m). The mountain slopes are cloaked in forest and moorland which gives way to rock, ice and snow. Mount Kenya is a part of a larger

reserve which is home to many rare species of animals.

5. Amboseli National Park

Amboseli is a popular park with breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro (in Tanzania). The park is centered around Observation Hill, which offers great views of the plains below. The Maasai live around the park and other than their cattle, Amboseli is home to more than 50

species of mammal and over 400 species of bird. You can see elephant, hippo, cheetah, leopard and more.


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6. Lake Turkana

The lunar landscape around Lake Turkana, a northern Rift Valley lake in Kenya, is a true spectacle. Lake Turkana is the largest permanent desert lake in the world and it is jam packed with large Nile crocodiles. The desert landscape is a paleontologists dream come

true, as early hominid remains continue to be unearthed by the Leakey family around Koobi Fora. The Lake itself is a shimmering entity that changes color with the wind. The area is home to various unique tribes and one of the main attractions for visitors. Turkana is off

the beaten track.

7. Lewa Wildlife Conservancy

Lewa is a private reserve set up primarily to protect black rhino, sitatunga, and the endangered Grevy's zebra. The park is excellently maintained, there are over 60 species of mammals and over 200 species of bird. You can even enjoy your game viewing on foot, on the

back of a camel, or in a traditional safari vehicle.

8. Tsavo National Parks

Tsavo National Park is split into Tsavo East and Tsavo West. The Tsavo parks are vast and the landscape is wild. Tsavo East is less developed than Tsavo West but more accessible. In Tsavo West you can watch elephants bathe among the hippos and the crocs from a unique

vantage point of an under-water glass tank. The "Big Five" do live here, but you have to look carefully to spot them

9. Malindi and Watamu

Malindi is a small town, but the beaches that surround it make it one of Kenya's top attractions. Silversands lies just south of town and is lined with villas and small resorts. A Marine Park keeps the area free from fishing and therefore great for snorkeling. Farther south is Watamu, a National Park with two main lagoons, Turtle Bay and Blue Lagoon, with

plenty resorts and hotels. Popular activities include sunset sails on a dhow (traditional sailboat), sunbathing, dolphin watching, diving and all kinds of water sports. Air Kenya and

540 airlines both fly to Malindi from Nairobi, or catch a matatu from Mombasa.

10. Samburu, Shaba and Buffalo Springs National Reserves

Samburu, Shaba and Buffalo Springs are 3 Reserves bordering one another in the dry landscape of North Central Kenya. The wildlife congregates around the Ewaso Ngiro River which runs through the Reserves. Besides the wildlife (elephant, giraffe, leopard, zebra,

blue-legged ostriches), a highlight of any visit is to meet the Samburu people. Camel safaris are on offer at most of the lodges and if you're in the area, visit the Laikipia Plateau.


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Fun facts-Did you know?

Kenya is an African country with vast mountains and beautiful scenery. It is a diverse collection of coastal waters, sanbanks, rivers, waterfalls, lakes, and deserts. This land is home to a staggering diversity of plants and wild animals such as hippopotamus, cheetahs, hyenas, snakes, rhinoceros, lions, and leopards.


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There are more than 65 national parks and wildlife preserves Each zone has distinct wildlife. Twenty hectares of rainforest contain more birds species than the whole of Europe. Much of Kenya’s native flora is not found anywhere else in the world. Furthermore, Kenyan culture reflects a mixture of African, Indian, and British influences, similar in many respects to the traditions and superstitions of Uganda and Tanzania. Kenya, formerly known as British East Africa, became independent in 1963 and a republic in 1964. Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, is an international place with every kind of accommodation. Nairobi has many restaurants that serve everything from monkey to antelope. More than other Third World countries, Kenya is a multicultural country made up of numerous ethnic groups. The flag was designed by the Kenya Africa National Union (KANU); the dominant political party until 2002. Conservation is a global effort, and the African country is doing its part to

conserve ecology’s bounty. Different from Peru and Ethiopia, Kenya has introduced wildlife conservation into the public school curriculum. The African country has an established record of cooperation with international conservation organizations. Kenya has become much more stable since the democratic elections of 2002.From 1963 to 2002, Kenya was a dictatorship. The Kenyan people have many idols: Henry Rono (runner), Richard Leakey (paleontologist and conservationist), Mama Ngima (ex-first lady of Kenya), Louise Leakey (paleontologist), Philip Leakey (businessman), Wangari Maathai (environmentalist), Grace Ogot (writer), Rebecca Njau (writer), and Kipchoge Keino (runner). In 2004, Wangari Maathai received the Nobel Prize for Peace for her dedication to women’s rights, ecology, and democracy. Wangari became the second woman from Africa to win the Nobel Prize. She is a really important model for the world. Since 1963, the economy has revolted around tourism. Kenya is one of the most prosperous black African countries.


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Today Kenyan Bernard Barmasai is the fastest man in the 3,000 meters steeplechase with a time of 7 minutes, 55.72s. UNESCO has declared Lake Turkana National Park and Mount Kenya National Park World Heritage Sites. In fact, Isak Dinesen, best known as Karen Dixen, loved Kenya so much. Her first novel Out of Africa (1938) focuses on Kenya’s scenery. Furthermore, Out of Africa was also the basis of a 1985 Hollywood film starring Meryl Streep, one of the best American actresses. The most popular sports are cricket, track and field, box, soccer, volleyball, rugby, tennis, and field hockey.

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