This archive report was first published on 18 July 2020.
As I sat with my 10-year-old son, scrolling through images of typewriters, I couldn't help but think about how far we've come. He had learned about these ancient machines in his Zoom class that morning, and his initial fascination quickly turned to dismissal, deeming them 'funny' and 'boring' because they couldn't play videos.
It was a stark reminder of the rapid pace of technological change that we're raising our children in. Just a few days later, my seven-year-old daughter looked up from her phone and asked, 'Mum, when you wanted to talk to your friends in...was it the eighties? You used to walk to their house?' Her innocence and naivety were both endearing and humbling.
As I reflected on these conversations with my children, I couldn't help but wonder what other challenges await us in the future. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about unprecedented changes, and it's scary to think about what other hurdles we'll face in the years to come.
But amidst the uncertainty, I take comfort in the fact that human beings are adaptable. We've always managed to find ways to overcome adversity, and I have no doubt that we'll continue to do so. However, it's disheartening to see some Kenyans disregarding the virus, prioritizing their social lives over their health and the well-being of those around them.
As we navigate this new world, it's essential that we prioritize caution, empathy, and understanding. We owe it to ourselves, our children, and future generations to be responsible and proactive in the face of uncertainty.