Tuesday - 18th July - Liv

 Today was my 19th birthday. We started out the day with some amazing pancakes. We then went off to do coral cleaning whereas the other group did permaculture. We saw some amazing fish while cleaning the coral, helping to reinforce the fish lessons that we have had.  

Next we came back for lunch and a little bit of downtime. We were then told to get ready to go on a boat, which was meant to be a secret. We then sailed out into the middle of the sea and a lot of us went for a swim. The sea was surprisingly warm so that was very nice to discover. :) once everyone was done swimming, I was surprised with a cake which was so sweet. Jay then proceeded to put the icing from the cake on my face, which apparently is a Kenyan tradition. As I had icing on my face, I decided that everyone else should have some as well. Most people were very reluctant to let me put some bright blue icing on their face. 

After the boat (called a ‘dhow’) we came back to popes and have a lovely dinner. 

After dinner we had a bit of a party in the bar which was the perfect end to my 19th.

Oceans Alive says:

Happy Birthday Liv.

Permaculture is a really interesting way we have got involved in a non-marine based action. Our team have set up water and space efficient sack gardens in a nearby village. The households can look after each sack garden and harvest nutritious leafy greens within six weeks of setting it up! Schools in the area have already seen a difference in the learning ability and concentration in kids who are getting this extra nutrition. Some households are also able to sell any excess crops at the market to make a few extra shillings. All in all its a very positive way to get communities to be less dependent on marine resources.