CONTRIBUTORS
Christopher Omumamu Maero
Senior Advocacy and Knowledge Management Officer
What’s your favorite way to unwind after a long day? What have you learned from it?
As a priority and as a dad to three kids, there is no other optional way to unwind other than getting home as soon as I can to play. Playing usually takes many forms. Some days, I am a robot, a dance partner, a donkey, or a plane engine 😀. I love that this also brings out the child in me and in my wife, something I don’t see in my wife often.
Family life has a pleasant way of bringing certain realities to the fore. I never thought I would be married at this age, but here I am thinking of how the kids get to school, eat or even go on holiday and that, at one time, a relationship can be sulky and at the next, a paradise, a reminder that the downs mean you stick together through thick and thin. All these were a mirage that I never thought would be possible.
What’s one thing you have always wanted to learn but never had the time for?
Aviation is a marvel that usually sparks something in me. I always wanted to be a pilot, but for some reason, when I was younger, it was one of those things that were termed expensive and needed a parent/ guardian with some deep pockets to get you through aviation school, which was “only” offered in South Africa. It was not until recently, when I took my sister for a flight dispatch course at Wilson Airport in Nairobi, that I discovered it’s actually doable.
Why aviation? There is something about being up in the air and taking control of an aircraft that just makes one appreciate the marvel of innovation. Defying gravity and defying the norm are things that I have always had within me. Though not as fiery as I would appreciate, it’s there. I don’t think it’s about not having time at this point; I feel it’s more about wanting it and going for it. Once that is burning deep inside, no matter the circumstances, time and resources will be available for me to pursue this. This is a mantra that I am growing into and embracing as a way of growth across my relationships, my faith, and my vision.
What is a hidden passion of yours that most people wouldn’t guess?
Chris, the orator. It has been a while since I did this, but I am actually passionate about oral narration that captures issues and tells stories in a witty, funny, and eye-opening way that breaks down complex to simple. I was a top orator in primary and secondary schools (brags discreetly 😀), then dimmed out as I joined campus, only trying to revive it in the fourth year of my studies. I tried training at some high schools to no success and sometimes l laugh at my escapades showing students how to do it as I did, and I think that’s where I always had a miss.
If you were stranded on a desert island, what three items would you want with you, and why would you want them?
A water can, camel, and hope.
The expanse of the desert might prove challenging when trying to navigate and find your way back to civilization. As much as the peace and tranquility might prove worthwhile, the scorching sun and dangers of desert serpents and scorpions might prove otherwise. So, having a way to move as fast as possible and in a sustained manner is useful, and that’s where the camel comes in. The water can will be vital in suppressing the thirst and even though it doesn’t take away the hunger that comes along, it gives you some cool mileage to keep on. This complemented with the hope of an oasis or some “friendly” civilization will also be crucial in keeping the strides and moving in a specific direction.
As a football lover, if you could watch any football match live from the stands, which one would it be and why?
Wednesday, 17 May 2006, Arsenal Vs Barcelona – UEFA Champions League Final. As an Arsenal fan, this was the day that my team showcased footballing flair and prowess. Even though we lost, a statement was made that night that Arsenal has what it takes to be among the best in global football and shouldn’t be shoved to the sidelines. I would want to be in the stands chanting and celebrating every dribble and goal scored by my team. The adrenaline, thout-of-this-world feel, would ignite some core in me that would have given me more reason to fight and do well, to my level best, even when things seem stacked against me. I was in primary school then (in 2006) and had just performed at the National Drama Festivals (April 2006) in Mombasa and had emerged as the top narrator overall, so having a chance at the stands, for such a game, might have probably given me more impetus to chase what I desired deep down and focus my vision.