Changes in Nairobi

Well, the bad news is that there was a horrible fire at Kenyatta International Airport last August. The good news is that new construction is well underway and what has already completed is pretty amazing. A person could be in any western airport and barely realize he was even in Africa … not sure if that's good or bad, but fresh paint, comfy seats for waiting, and polished floors are a welcomed change.

Along with all the other changes, I was completely mystified when going to the WC (washroom). The usual uniformed gal was seated at the entrance, so I greeted her not even thinking there might be some differences even in the restroom. There were the usual stalls, but now instead of three different types of facilities to choose from, there was only one (pictured). Ok, no big deal. All new actual toilet seats, new tile, new doors, and now a toilet hose as well.

(FYI: According to a recent report: "This week, we can reveal that a shocking 98 PERCENT of Western expats living in the Middle East have absolutely NO IDEA what the hoses found in toilets are actually supposed to be used for. Of the 98 per cent, a startling SEVEN PER CENT thought the hose was for washing very small children, while 30 PER CENT believed it was an emergency water supply should they become trapped in the bathroom. "I usually just use it to clean the back of the bowl," admitted Abu Dhabi-based Australian expatriate Cherri Adair. "Is it really, for, well, you know? Doesn't that hurt?")

As usual, the seat on the toilet was up as I entered, a typical occurrence that continues to baffle me. Also, as usual there were two or three women clothed in beautiful Indian silks draping to the floor clustered around the sink chatting away. But, wait, alongside the wall, there was something I had never seen before. Two spigots were conspicuously sticking out from the wall safely ensconced in the freshly placed tile. I had no idea if this was a great opportunity to wash my hair or clothes or what!!

So, what's a girl to do? I just have to know!!! So, when leaving the restroom, I asked the Kenyan gal quietly sitting out front. Thankfully, she timidly acquiesced and whispered answers to all my questions. "What am I supposed to do with the new faucets?" I asked. With big eyes and smile, she was only too willing to enlighten this clueless American. "They are for the Muslims. You see they need to wash the feet, the legs, the hands and arms and faces before praying. This is their custom." As we continued to talk, she told me that before in the old building, it was a big problem, because the women would put their feet and legs in the sink. There was so much water on the counter and floor that sometimes they would slip and fall and cause many problems. In addition, the Christians did not want to wash their hands where these women had just been putting their legs. Who knew? I found this fascinating! Since I had a captive and receptive audience, I then asked her, "So, why is the seat on the toilet always put up?" Once again I was enlightened. "Because the thinking is that the seat is dirty from other people being there. The Muslims and Asians, and even others raise the seat and stand on the rim of the toilet to use it for what they are accustomed to, the squatty potty." Mmmm, makes so much sense. So, all you eco-friendly women, instead of using that paper toilet seat cover, you might want to consider this method instead!

Well, there ya have it! Another day out here in the big wide world. Lots to see, lots to learn!