Helping the community in Kenya

Oct 2 2009

HE’S witnessed the suffering of families struggling to survive in the poorest parts of Africa first-hand.

And now Calum Kerr wants to do his bit to help.

For he will travel to Kenya as part of a 10-strong construction team from Balfour Beatty to build a clinic which could change the lives of thousands.

It’s a far cry from Ayr, where the 42-year-old grew up and his parents Shona and Alex still live.

The 16-day expedition, dubbed Team Kenya 2009, left on Friday to work with the local labour force on constructing the substantial stone clinic.

He said: “I was lucky enough to live in Kenya for almost three years whilst serving with the British Army training unit (Kenya) in Nairobi, and I’m looking forward to giving something back to a country that has given me so many fond memories and unforgettable experiences.

“Working with my colleagues I am looking forward to taking part in a project that will benefit so many.

“At the moment, the community – even heavily pregnant mothers – have been travelling on foot for over 10km to reach the nearest hospital.”

Calum, who is a former pupil of Kincaidston Primary and Belmont Academy, is currently living in Newcastle, where he works as an engineering manager for the construction giant.

He has also helped raise thousands of pounds to fund the project, which will vastly improve healthcare facilities for desperately poor communities.

He added: “I’m looking forward to mixing with the local people and children and getting stuck into the construction of the clinic, where my general engineering skills will hopefully prove useful.”