EMBRACING HEALTHY PRACTISES DURING CRISIS

EMBRACING HEALTHY PRACTISES DURING CRISIS

By Muhammad Shakombo.

A platter of fruits

We spend almost 47 percent of our working hours thinking about something other than what we are doing, according to a study, 2010. Human attention is dwindling; average human attention span was 12 seconds in the year 2000 but dropped to 8 seconds in 2013. Studies also show that the attention span among adults and teenagers is between 10 to 20 minutes on average. This, however, is dependent on different factors such as the medium of communication, noise, language barrier, social integration, and interest among others. Mind-boggling, right? Attention span may also be affected by physiological and physical disorders. Well, the good news is, there are ways to increase your attention span and among them is exercise.

Physiological and physical exercises are vital ways to enhance attention span to individuals. Good health and mental wellness as part of the strategic development goals is an integral part of our well-being. Daily routine workout sessions can be followed in the comfort of your house under minimal supervision.  Routine workouts ranging from 1-2 hours a day can expedite the attention span exponentially.

Cognitive abilities are likely to be enhanced in physically active members of society; better health outcomes are icing on the cake. According to the CDC, 2007, 2.7 million youths aged between 4-17 were receiving medication treatment for ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), and in reality due to not receiving enough physical activity. Obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure just to name a few opportunistic diseases likely to take advantage. 

Most of us have had dreams of becoming an entrepreneur of some sort in life to seek financial freedom and escape the rat race of living from pay-check to pay-check. Well, a dream remains to be one unless you wake up and start working on it. A dream does not work not unless we do, paradoxically if you do not work on your dream then you will work for someone’s dream. Yes, the exact rat-race spot. 

Rush hour in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi

During periods of crisis and uncertainties it is perfect timing to test your theories, draw a plan, take a feasibility test on your idea but most of all test the market and viability of the idea. I dare to overemphasize the crucial aspect of having a mentor, which can be of service and a match for you. It is during a crisis that leaders are born, and true to that business leaders are born too. In the wake of befriending the dollars, you ought to solve bigger worldly problems. Jeff Bezos dares to solve bigger world problems and that’s what puts him on the map as the world’s first trillionaire. 

People say youth is wasted on the young; on the contrary, I tend to believe wisdom is wasted on the old. Make mistakes and do not hesitate to make another one but different, in mistakes we learn. Just like mental health is real, accepting its existence is a first step in the right direction. Great philosophers like Albert Einstein and Isaac Newton are products of countless failures but defied succumbing to defeat thus persevered and emerged victors. With great resilience, water cuts a rock. Ask the right questions always with the intent to learn and be better. I believe luck is a function of intent, and luck only favors the prepared.

IGNORANCE WILL DO MORE HARM IN A CRISIS

IGNORANCE WILL DO MORE HARM IN A CRISIS

In a study by the Johns Hopkins University, the Coronavirus –scientifically known as SARS-CoV-2 clamps onto ACE- (angiotensin-converting enzyme) receptors, known as ‘gateway’ into cells inside the body. These receptors are structures found on the surface of cells in lungs and airways, which regulate blood pressure. Our eyes also produce these receptors, hence making them susceptible to attack by the Coronavirus. This means in case droplets from a positive person’s cough or sneeze lands on the surface of eyes, penetration of the virus would occur. 

How Kenyans are taking precautionary directives. 

An interesting reason why different stakeholders of health advocate for social distance is to target man’s safety from the virus. "If we continue to behave normally, this disease will treat us abnormally." Famous words in Kenya, by the cabinet secretary of Health, Mutahi Kagwe. Whether the virus is natural or lab created is subject to discussion after sailing through this pandemic.

Ignorance is bliss, so they say. The price of ignorance during such a pandemic is death. Measures put in place  to help fight this unseen enemy such as wearing masks have been taken for granted. It seems like a punishment, yet on the contrary it’s for your our own good. We loosen up the mask when in the wind and far from the law enforcers. Initially there were more stringent approaches by public transport system to spray hand sanitizers to commuters; unfortunately this has been taken under the bus. Washing hands with running water is not the only way to stay safe, but adhering to all aspects that make us vulnerable to COVID-19 is of utmost importance. 

Most countrymen in developing countries have overly flawed social distance. Ironically, people gather to discuss about the same measures put in place to ensure their safety. Yes, the need to question and provoke agendas is essential but not at the expense of losing your life. Most of the developing countries are ill equipped scientifically to test, diagnose and treat effectively hence it binds mishaps. Governments are struggling to flatten the curve, yet citizens find mockery in heeding to the precautionary measures. Yes, the hypocrisy is staggering.

Measures to undertake during the COVID-19 crisis

As countrymen, clinging on to traditions and beliefs hold a candle for our social integration. Social integration plays an integral part of our well-being but these are not usual times, hence require unusual approaches. The race to finding cure of this disease is terrific, with each country going an extra mile. Upsurge of traditional means of cure have sky-rocketed with all kinds of advisors advocating for what they believe is more likely to kick away Coronavirus yet unproven scientifically. This makes me chuckle, reminiscing those moments when your significant other told you that, your act is below par. Immediately you recalled the guy selling concoctions you passed-by in the street claiming to increase libido. Funny as it may sound, the act is all a mind game, anyway not my topic today. A vaccine will play a great deal in getting us back to our lifestyle but as at now heeding to precautionary measures is king.

In these moments of overwhelming uncertainties, we need to embrace a balanced diet to keep good health. Think of a rainbow when taking meals and strive to hit all colors of fruit and vegetables. Ensure that you get ample rest as you stay home. Consider having regular exercise to keep fit and avoid stress. Remember knowledge is power and only you can drive ignorance away. You drown not only by falling into the river but also by staying submerged in it.

WORRYING STATE OF STIGMA DURING THE COVID-19 CRISIS

MANAGING STIGMA IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES

Representation of Stigma
Designed by Makyzz / Freepik

“One in four people in the world will be affected by mental or neurological disorders at some point in their lives,” This is according to the UN meeting, Geneva, 4th October. The Mental Health Policy 2015-2030, coinciding with the position of UN that one in every four Kenyans will be a patient to the above account. This implies that most of us are patients of mental disorders in waiting, yet when allocating country budgets the amount is not substantial especially towards mental health. In a study in 2017, of over 19,000 people in 16 countries showed poor attitudes about seeking treatment, 39% think that seeking help would mean losing friends, 49% think seeking help would mean limited opportunities. Feeding our worry of seeking help with the dogma of losing friends. 

As governments are engaged with fighting the Coronavirus, other conditions and disorders have been given minimal attention. Success stories on COVID-19 are present too, Taiwan recorded only 429 cases with 6 deaths but since mid-April, they have recorded zero infections. This country was the first to stop flights from Wuhan and took all precautionary measures fast enough, without even imposing a lockdown they have flattened the curve. New Zealand in an exemplary manner has eradicated the Coronavirus within its borders.

Medicinal drugs for the treatment of patients

Stigma is a negative feeling that people have about particular circumstances or characteristics that somebody may have. This long period of staying at home and being safe is commendable in curbing spread, though the mental health is now shipbroking. Most people who have been in various quarantine facilities have had different experiences of stigmatization due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Kenya, certainly of which are unpleasant. According to the Kenyan constitution, in the provision of article 43(1)(a) declares that every person is entitled to the ‘highest attainable standards of health including the right to health care services.’ Which includes mental health. Despite penning down of such good legislation, implementations of these regulations are yet to be felt by the common citizen.  Most citizens are languishing in pain and being bombarded with too much uncertainty from the people in authority.

Regardless of having mental health issues being part of life, many are yet to come into terms with reality. There is fear for falling sick and dying from the diseases, avoiding health care facilities for fear of contraction, loneliness, and depression due to being isolated, fear of being socially excluded among other fears are present in most Kenyans. The risk of being affected has affected the social interactions in our communities hence increasing chances of depression, although some hotspots are behaving on the contrary. Incase caregivers are isolated in quarantine facilities; it creates deterioration of mental and physical health from the vulnerable members of the community like the elder generation and persons with disabilities.

Personal protective pieces of equipment   

Treatment is available to the citizen, yet almost two-thirds of individuals never seek help. Understanding and addressing psychosocial support is key in curbing any mental health of the citizen to curb long-term effects. Make sure you seek help from a professional in case you are in distress during moments of crisis. Globally, the recommended ratio of a psychiatrist to a patient is 1:10,000 yet in developing countries the figure is worrying. The government has the autonomy of action in such cases; as such, the need to increase the number of health care workers can come in handy. The contribution of the private sector is also much needed. The debate of finances too cannot be overlooked hence harmonization is required.

It is okay to feel sad during a crisis, but take chances and contact people you trust among friends and family. If you must stay home then make sure you follow a healthy diet and don’t forget exercise. If you are overwhelmed then seek help from a health care worker. Times are changing and change is inevitable; furthermore, time waits for none. Develop and nurture new skills that will help you grow as a person holistically. Personally, I have engaged in writing articles, creating content, doing voice-overs, and enjoying journalism by mixing business with pleasure. There’s richness in emancipating yourself from mental slavery, the redemption song by Bob Marley puts it in perspective.

FAST-TRACKING ON THE COVID-19 PHASE 1

INTERVENTIONS MUCH NEEDED IN THE PANDEMIC

MEDICAL APPARATUS.

“…The villainy you teach me, I will execute- and it shall go hard but I will better the instruction.” Merchant of Venice: act 3, scene 1. A monologue well demonstrated by the character Shylock to Antonio. In this monologue, Shylock expresses displeasure in the mannerism of Antonio’s treatment towards him, and he intends to revisit the treatment or far worse be more villainous. I tend to have a soliloquy on my imaginary stage; what if the earth is revenging on all the bad decisions we’ve been doing to it? Has the coin flipped for the human race to taste its own medicine? Hands down to mother earth, if Coronavirus is a way for the earth to act in self-defence.  COVID-19 in its phase one has seen developing countries fight tooth and nail to break even, yet the determination has yet to yield results. The numbers are yet to take a stall by the end of April, with exponential growth by the day. 

WHO, Ministry of Health and the governments are encouraging behavioural change in order to reduce the risk of new infections. Phase 1 is a very tedious and energy drenching period where the measures to curb spread through cessation of movements and other means are taking a toll on patience. Several institutions have been rendered sterile, matters business; tragically the impact on our economy is inevitable. Policies of work, movement and gathering among others have been altered significantly. 

The long hours at home are also impacting the mental wellness of individuals. Certainly, we all anticipate for normalcy, but we need to brace ourselves for a longer period of uncertainty. Countries like China; currently in phase 2 of the pandemic have somehow a semi-normal lifestyle. For developing countries to reach this phase, then we need to emulate the stringent measure taken. Yes, that bitter pill require swallowing.

CORONAVIRUS 

Since man must survive, innovations to solving world problems will be the best thing since sliced bread. Employers and their employees have now capitalise on digital platforms to have meetings and deliberate on issues at the comfort of their couches. Supermarkets and eateries have been able to capitalise on delivery applications to attend to customer’s need. Maybe this might be the best way going forward but it’s still early to predict. More apparent, there’s need to increase testing capacity so as to identify the hot spots and curb the disease. 

Governments can increase testing capacity by partnering with the private sector; hence spike innovations in testing gadget like the pregnancy kit innovation. Senegal is leading the race, having developed a one dollar COVID-19 testing kit. Application developers can provide their expertise to expedite the process of contact tracing, so as to straighten the curve. Well, these are suggestions and my words are not law, just playing my role like the character Shylock so as to spark debate.


Drastic times call for drastic measures, hence adhering to the call for action in behavioural change is adamant and prudent. Well, is a total lockdown necessary to curb COVID-19? The answer, I live it to you. Mental wellness is a loose cannon that needs intervention a.s.a.p. Ensuring you have someone to check on you from time to time and engaging in meaningful endeavour can reduce the risk of mental deterioration. 

PATHWAY 

The mind is the most powerful organ, feed it with positivity and alas your perspective changes. Assessment, cultural concepts of distress and interventions should be sort after. Mental health is not a destination, but an ongoing process. It’s about how you drive, not where you are going. Most of all let’s take care of mother earth before it turns its fangs on us. Time is the only thing that will allow you to find yourself again. We ought to think before acting, lest the earth cast a villainous spell on us.

REFLECTIONS TO SUSTENANCE AND SURVIVAL

REALITY CHECK DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Nairobi by 7pm, curfew times.

''I can not stay at home, I will die from hunger, stress..." words lingering in the minds of people in informal settlements. The urge to go out and fend for sustenance is eating up the efforts to curb the spread of the Coronavirus in the slums. This lady that I know to be very bubbly, friendly, and equally talented, tells me she's lost work in the film industry months before the Coronavirus pandemic. Prior to the pandemic, she could go out and get a gig for a day or two but now all doors entertainment are closed. As an elder sister, she has to fend for her siblings hence the #stayathome campaign can hardly settle-in her vocabulary. 



WHO measures can only be hand-picked by people in less fortunate situations, washing hands and wearing masks can be practiced but social distancing is jargon hardly understood. Well as rules of the jungle dictate, 'survival for the fittest' she's forced to look for menial jobs to get food on the table.

Dosage

Small businesses and other businesses alike are taking measures to save them income hence affecting the well-being of individuals. The loss of jobs has dropped down to those in unskilled labor too, now more stomachs are languishing in pain. The rich man's decision to lay off most of their home workers, as they take precautionary measures has had a trickle-down effect that is devastating in the slums. Mental wellness in most of the informal settlements is degrading and in a dire need to be addressed. While the political class might be silent when needed most, psychosocial professionals could step-up and lead from the front. With the 'Harambee' spirit in our DNA, let's get creative as we have always been helping the less fortunate. Safaricom has this 'Bonga point' initiative that we can make a difference. This article 'look at us' is an eye-opener.

The fight against this deadly virus scaling-up with the Ministry of Health's decision to roll-out a mass testing campaign in risk areas. Rural areas are still struggling with information on the virus, resulting in taking concoctions and prescribing misinformed diets. Information is power while health is wealth, both treating those at risk informing the masses is crucial. The cost of treating one COVID-19 patient staggering at almost one million Kenyan shillings, according to the ministry of health. Luckily, the government is footing the bill on these expenses, it's going to be hard but 'Aluta-continua.'

Social connectedness prompted me to call my cousins who quit the 'Arab money' to become a farmer back at home in the rural area. His decision at first was not welcomed by those around, it was surprising for someone to leave office work and go to the farm. In this case, guess who's laughing now. He tells me that business is booming on the farm and the demand is bigger than he can supply. At this moment, farming sounds like beautiful music to my ears. Despite the government cessation of movement in his county Kwale, he has a reason to smile during these hard-time tales. For sure, opportunities are present for some in hard times.



Reflecting on my previous article torn between sustenance and survival is one dilemma that needs intervention. We need to act quickly, so as not to risk Africa becoming an epicenter for the Coronavirus. Bold steps need to be taken to ensure that our people do not die from COVID-19 and worse, also the pangs of hunger. We can not let our previous actions define us, but we can control what we do next. 

COVID-19 AND MANAGING ANXIETY

ANXIETY MANAGEMENT AMIDST CHAOS

Perspective view

"Stay at home if you feel unwell. If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and call in advance. Follow the directions of your local health authority." Are the most frequent words in media outlets on the COVID-19 pandemic news coverage, encouraged by the World Health Organization. As much as information is power, having a powerful mental state can not be taken for granted during such hard-nosed times. Consumption of overwhelming negative news on the Coronavirus pandemic endangers the stability of proper mental health. Health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social wellbeing, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity as defined by WHO. 

Acknowledgment of the role of mental health has proved to contribute a great deal, in achieving global development goals with the recent incorporation of mental health into the sustainable development goal. Feeding the mind with unlimited negative information can take a toll on the psychological state of humans who are nonetheless vulnerable. We are rather languishing in the uncertainty of the future with fear of the unseen, yet mother nature promises better days amidst this chaos. Just like separating the wheat from the chuff, man must choose his level of consumption of information so as to have a sound mind. Depression, anxiety, stress to name just a few psychological impacts, which put children, elderly and women in the vulnerable list. Incredibly, the mind could be like a huge fertile farm, the choice of planting roses or vegetables is sitting squarely on your decision table.

A healthier mind is a wealthier life. Embracing positivity only yields positive results, therefore we need to take timely measures for our mental health and the importance of self-care. First, limiting consumption of every news or updates coming your way, just have few reliable sources. 

Time-piece

This will give you a sense of direction, reduce anxiety brought in by fake news and give you control. Secondly, surround yourself with a better company that gives you support and positive vibes. The internet has made the world a global village, take advantage of it. Use social media for connectedness which is important for our mental well-being. Thirdly, take advantage of the free time by engaging in physical exercise to elevate your esteem. Avoid habits like too much drinking, drugs and smoking as these ventures do more harm than good. It is okay to feel vulnerable amidst these chaotic moments, we can not always control what happens to us but certainly, we can control how we react.

Josh Billings once said, ''Health is like money, we never have a true idea of its value until we lose it.'' The symphony of life is creating an artistic balance in everything you do. Caregivers, patients and the medics on the frontline of this Coronavirus pandemic are exposed to great psychological degradation. We can overcome stress and anxiety posed to us by addressing the short-term and eventually the long-term psychosocial support. Mental health is of great importance to the socio-economic wellness of individuals and nations in times of crisis. Mental health is precious hence importance of self-care.

Artistic piece

Feed your soul with positivity and change your perspective, approach life with rationality and balance, the world around you eventually might change. ''Today be thankful and think how rich you are. Your family is priceless, your time is gold and your health is wealth.'' Zig Ziglar.

TORN BETWEEN SURVIVAL AND SUSTENANCE

THE PLIGHT OF LOW-INCOME EARNERS

A choice between feeding on the labor of the hands and washing hands to stay safe is putting a great number of low-income earners in a dilemma. According to the world bank, ''In Kenya, an estimated 53% of the urban population and 49% of rural households have access to water.'' The thought of buying a face mask, hand sanitisers, water just for hand-wash or gloves is mind-boggling for some, despite the need to adhere to measures by health authorities. 

Small business

Just like the irony of extreme poverty in Africa falling yet in contrast population growth still presents more poor people. In a rather unfortunate state, low-income earners find themselves on crossroads during the prevailing Coronavirus pandemic. Timely COVID-19 news updates are pivotal in creating awareness and sensitizing the masses from the virus in efforts to curb the pandemic. People in the informal settlements live from hand to mouth where every dollar counts for survival. 

In combating the spread of COVID-19, a lockdown decision seems essential but taking care of the rights of citizens is fundamental. The world bank projections in 2019 stated, ''Gross domestic product growth (GDP) is expected to rise to 5.9% in 2020 and 6.0% in 2020 underpinned by private consumption, a pick-up in industrial activity and still strong performance in the services sector.''  As much as numbers do not lie, low-income earners are left with more questions than answers. Who will fend for their families that live from hand to mouth? Do we even have a good health care system to attend to the less fortunate? Are our leaders even thinking about the voter's welfare? Health equity is overly flawed, yet human resource is a key factor of production in achieving our visions.

When you are dealing with fire and the fire's getting worse, you can only think about one thing. Putting it out. In essence, as we concentrate on the epidemic, staying woke ought to be in our DNA. Imagine the mental health state of a parent in lockdown with no coin at hand, yet has mouths to feed staring agape. Philanthropic persons are willing to distribute some essentials, but is this a sustainable measure in the long-term? 

Open-air Market

Poverty on the verso in Africa is at bay, catching a glimpse ready to show its fangs like a snake. Tough economic times looming for SMEs in developing countries. Low-income earners are staring at the gun barrel, forced to surrender to the Coronavirus or starvation. When you are less fortunate, the end always justifies the means. The struggle among people in the informal sector is to see yet another day even if the day is not ready to see them.

As we are looking for a Coronavirus treatment, we need to stay abreast with the plight of the less fortunate. We clearly do not need earthquakes to shake up our brains and think much clearer. 

Landscape view

You are safer when your neighbors are better mentally, physically and financially. “In this world, everything is governed by balance. There's what you stand to gain and what you stand to lose. And when you think you've got nothing to lose, you become overconfident.''

JUSTICE SERVED COLD IN THE 21ST CENTURY

TOUGH LESSONS TO THE HUMAN RACE IN CRISIS

Presser on Covid-19 update.

The war against the 'unseen' enemy, COVID-19 has seen infections reach unexpected heights worldwide causing a huge stretch to the medical facilities and professionals.  The republic of Kenya followed precedence by declaring a curfew from 27th March 2020, from 7pm to 5am. These measures put in to curb the spread of the deadly Corona virus enforced by law enforcement apparatus had a mixed reaction on its day one. Adherence to the law by citizens and forbearance from the law enforcers on this day may have been forgone to some extent. Despite the chaos of alleged assault by law enforcers, health professionals are taking greater risks in combating the pandemic. In the world, some regions are making great strides in the fight against Covid-19 and are healing their population. The rest of the world, especially Africa had time to learn from the mistakes of other nations but lack of preparedness threw them away.

The health professionals are working around the clock to ensure that the pandemic is contained in Africa. This comes with its own share of challenges to health professionals and the facilities at hand. Philanthropist billionaire Jack Ma found it best to donate medical pieces of equipment to African countries. Despite the positive move, most of the health professionals are yet to get the proper gears and training on Corona virus. An old warrior mantra states, 'The more you sweat in training, the less you bleed in battle.' It's high time we rectify our mistakes and learn how others are confronting the Corona virus. In this fight against the pandemic, we need to facilitate our front liners with personal protective equipment and training.

Doctors in session

When the hunter becomes the hunted, health professionals on the flipside may turn vulnerable in a health crisis. Mental health support to the patients, family and health professionals is very instrumental in combating stigma.

Countries are battling the epidemic in different ways but the economic impact is already occupying the front seat. According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, 'The Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) 20 share index decreased from 2,654 points in December 2019 to 2,600 points in January 2020 while the total number of shares traded decreased from 357 million shares to 336 million shares during the same period.' Currently, most businesses are taking a toll on their business and finances. These tough economic times find low-income earners and SMEs on crossroads, whether to take precautionary measures or fend for their daily bread.

If the enemy is one, and health professionals are our soldiers then we need to assemble our arsenals to win the war. In a bid to curb the spread, a lock-down can buy us time but we need to learn more from countries under this strict measure. The enemy has already sneaked into our territory, it's our duty to heed measures by our governments and the world health organization. Social distancing, staying at home and regular hygiene are some of the fundamental weapons in achieving success against Covid-19. Human is to error, but mistakes are supposed to give us valuable lessons. 

Breathtaking Sunset View

Life has no second chance nor insurance of a fallen soldier. If we feed our society with positivity then positive vibes are bound to embrace us. Sunset reminds us that one more day is lost but eminently the next day is beyond that horizon. In his words, Oscar Wilde said, 'Experience is simply the name we give our mistakes.'

CORONA PANDEMIC, SOLVING WORLD PROBLEMS

THE EARTH HEALING FROM HUMAN CONFLICT

Our scientists with vast knowledge on climate change have continued to give strategies for decision makers to take measure, though the question still remains: Why do government responses to covid19 and climate change differ so drastically? Desperate measures require desperate decisions, since there is always a method to the madness. It beats logic that African leaders have not in place contingency plans to fight epidemics for essential services yet money and promises during campaigns are poured in abundance.

Hello members of the marriage fraternity, is this #stay-home medicine working in your best interest or against? If you were a career person, are you feeling how house-helps and housewives feel at home? If the feeling is any different I'd love to write about your plight, but today I am concentrating on the positive aspect to our environment. Pigeons and other birds have the luxury of flying across without getting choked by fumes and sing for us every morning welcoming a new dawn.

Climate change concern

Urbanization, industrialization, deforestation among other human activities have greatly contributed to the adverse effects of global climate change. Since the WHO has given protective measures in curbing the spread of covid19 and staying safe. Governments have also put in measures to curb human interactions through quarantine and social-distancing. These measures have helped a great deal in curbing the emission of greenhouse gases. Cities are now cleaner, no congestion, fresh air breeze and certainly busy minds now have time for their family.


"And one of His signs is that He has created for you, spouses from amongst yourselves so that you might take comfort in them and He has placed between you, love and mercy. In this there is surely evidence (of the truth) for the people who carefully think." (Quran: Chapter 30, Verse 21).

This opportunity might not apply to all since people want to make memories and are craving for a bigger crowd and event. Those of whom are lucky to get this relief financially from the exorbitant and extravagant spending need to give thanks to the Almighty due to this covid19 pandemic. Sarcastic as it may sound but it's creating a better environment.

A pleasant atmospheric view of Nairobi

"If anything kills over 10million people in the next few decades, it's most likely to be a highly infectious virus rather than a war." Bill Gates said in 2015, in regards to preparedness on a global pandemic. Despite the devastating effects this pandemic is causing the atmosphere looks healthier and natural resources are in better conditions.

“It is time to put armed conflict on lockdown and focus together on the true fight of our lives,” UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for a global ceasefire so as to attend to the Covid19 pandemic. The covid19 virus which began in wuhan china has now shifted it's epicenter to europe and giving lessons to the rest of the world. World scientists and activists like Greta Thunberg have been on the forefront to rebuke world leaders as well as giving concerns on climate change. We might have not taken heed of their remarkable research and concern but the current wave of covid19 pandemic seems to work in their best interest and humanity. The earth is now breathing and having a rebirth with relief from so much carbon emissions produced by human industrialization activities.

Mental health and wellness is being tackled indirectly through these measures from those who are not infected by having them rest at home. Depression and anxiety being key contributors in the workplace. I am not praying for the epidemic to continue but am praying that we are getting valuable lessons on this state. With few human interactions those that are single could take advantage and settle down with few expenses currently since the religion and government welcome the idea of a less gathering.

A new dawn

"Perhaps you hate a thing and it is good for you; and perhaps you love a thing and it is bad for you..." Paraphrasing the words of the holy book(Quran).
When the sun is above your head, make hay so you may enjoy the fruit of your labour in the sunset. The covid19 is just a reminder that if you are not planning then you are planning to fail. Just like a candle that gives light another candle, kindness too never diminishes the value of humans. The late professor Wangari Maathai once said,“There are opportunities even in the most difficult moments.”

POWER, A MORE DREADFUL DISEASE THAN CORONA

POWER AGITATION, A LESSON ONLY CORONA CAN DEMYSTIFY.

According to WHO, "People can catch COVID-19 from others who have the virus. The disease can spread from person to person through small droplets from the nose or mouth which are spread when a person with COVID-19 coughs or exhales. These droplets land on objects and surfaces around the person. Other people then catch COVID-19 by touching these objects or surfaces, then touching their eyes, nose or mouth. People can also catch COVID-19 if they breathe in droplets from a person with COVID-19 who coughs out or exhales droplets."

Respiratory inflammation due to virus infection

Human life or mental health is a precious commodity when you identify that no amount of wealth can afford it. Much has been written and spoken over the covid19 virus but the WHO has been highlighted as the most trustworthy information source regarding the epidemic in 2020. According to the WHO COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the most recently discovered Coronavirus. This new virus and disease was unknown before the outbreak began in Wuhan, China, in December 2019.

Just like the COVID-19 epidemic, the work ethics in some organizations is deteriorating and crumbling down professionalism. As PLO Lumumba, once said, "Those that have ideas have no power, and those that have power have no idea." Pun intended here, it seems either power consumes the mind and ideas are overcome by it or those seeking power had only a plan to get power nothing else. Most employees in religious organizations seem not a happy lot with their employers, yet much is expected from them to provide a lead role in the industry. Religious beliefs came to inculcate discipline among humans but those that translate scriptures to fit their interests are not harming their image but tainting the scriptures. The divide and rule systems used in this 21st century only culminate in deterioration of professionalism, inculcating fear to employees thus less productivity and growth.

Tell-tell signs of a toxic workplace

In a toxic work environment, unpleasant decisions made by unqualified individuals in power can spread lethal repercussions to the organization and employees. When core values like communication, trust, teamwork, integrity, progress are not harnessed then it results in mistrust, fear, pain, lack of motivation thus inviting chaos in the organization. Power struggles are an imminent threat to the prosperity of an organization since teamwork is lacking. Surprisingly, those that are fighting for power are not qualified in the profession but only seek to please the seniors with promises of achieving their interest. This comes at the expense of ruining the lives and mental wellness of those under his tenure.

In the wake of fighting this pandemic, China's foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said Trump should take care of his own matters first. "Some US politicians have tried to stigmatize China... which china strongly condemns." These remarks came in retaliation to words uttered by the US president who referred to the coronavirus as "the Chinese virus", sparking an already endangered US-China diplomatic raft. Power in the wrong hands is like a ticking bomb in the hands of a toddler. If the toddler plays with this 'toy' closer to his face, beholder disaster to its own biology, but if it finds the toy less interesting and dumps it to the next crowd of toddlers and walks away, then your guess is as good as mine."Power can be a dangerous thing when it falls into the wrong hands": As addressed by Troy Ruptash.

A guide to making a conducive workplace.

Complete satisfaction does not exist but we can always try and make the world a better place than we found it. If you are not planning then eminently you are planning to fail. If we plan to eradicate the covid19 virus then we need to stay abreast and embrace unity. Power is not bad in the right hands. As we endeavor for prosperity then we have to look up to the best of creation. He's the ultimate planner and everything happens by His will, as Drake sang, "God's plan."