Friday, February 5, 2010

i can't get no sleep


“The camera makes everyone a tourist in other people's reality, and eventually in one's own.”
Susan Sontag

Day one of production of Matatu Express. Made it deeper into Kibera for an interview with James (pictured above) who runs an organization that helps protect orphans in Kibera. Also made contact with DJ Jah Hill, who I will be interviewing next week. I am beginning to be stunned and amazed by the passion, creativity and collaboration within the streets of Kibera. James lives with 2 of his brothers and 2 friends in his home which is about 6 feet by 6 feet. He has a bed, a small coffee table, and 2 chairs. No running water or electricity. The interview went well. The further you go into Kibera the more hardship you see. The roads are really a labyrinth of mud and garbage with a river of sewage running in the center. I got home in the early evening and we had some people over for dinner, it was fun for awhile. Then later when I found myself in bed, I had trouble sleeping. It was raining outside, and I kept listening to it. I kept thinking about James and his 4 houseguests sleeping in that tiny space, and I could almost hear the sound the rain must be making right now coming down on that tin roof. It’s four am and I can’t get no sleep.

2 comments:

  1. Colm, It looks like you are getting some great access so far. I'm can't wait to read about some of the stories that you uncover deep in Kibera. Hope you are well.

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  2. thanks alot for your words of encouragement Matt, really appreciate it. Hope to see you soon when I return!

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