The remainder of my practicum in Kisii with Curamericas Global was a whirlwind. Since I was only in Kenya for one month, things moved very quickly in order to complete my projects on time. My first week was spent preparing for my qualitative research studies – writing research questions, preparing interview guides, and randomizing participants for my focus groups. I also visited and toured the Matongo Health Centre and familiarized myself with the facility and its services. In addition to beginning my projects, I enjoyed exploring Kisii. I familiarized myself with the local market to purchase fresh produce, located a grocery store for my other dietary staples, and determined the most efficient route to the KIKOP office at the Ministry of Health.
![](http://globalblogs.web.unc.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/16916/2019/07/Matongo-Health-Centre_Kisii-Kenya.png)
Focus group discussions began during my second week in Kisii. I quickly realized that my results would be richest if the focus groups were conducted in the local language by KIKOP staff. I held a qualitative research “crash course” for the KIKOP staff to familiarize them with the process of a qualitative study and the most important things to know about facilitating focus groups. Since I held about 10 focus groups during my practicum, I was extremely grateful for the willingness of the KIKOP staff to assist with my studies and facilitate the focus groups.
![](http://globalblogs.web.unc.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/16916/2019/07/Focus-group-discussion_Matongo-Health-Centre.png)
Following data collection came transcription. Local volunteers transcribed the focus group discussions into English for me, and I began data analysis shortly thereafter. Thus far I have completed analysis of transcripts for one of my studies – operational research on what constitutes a culturally appropriate birthing space and care at Matongo Health Center in Kisii. The preliminary results have been very informative and fascinating to read about, and I am looking forward to seeing the space that is designed as a result of my findings.
Life in Kisii was certainly challenging at times and different from my life back in the U.S., but it was a good learning experience. The KIKOP staff were helpful, members of my focus groups were welcoming, and I learned a lot from experiencing such a different culture. As I reflect on my month in Kisii, I feel grateful for the opportunity to experience life in a city so different from my hometown. I will always look back on my time here with gratitude and deep respect for all the individuals I worked with and will remain optimistic that they are able to obtain the positive health outcomes that Curamericas Global and KIKOP are working so hard to achieve.
– Dana