Nicky, Gee (serving), Tana (21) and Keisha (17)
How long have you been an army family?
29 years and 11 quarters and about to embark on our last posting!
Time in Kenya?
Three fantastic years.
How many other military families live there?
Approximately 20 families, so lots of other children around.
What’s your quarter like?
Our house is a large four-bed, four-bathroom property in a gated compound with access to a swimming pool. We have a beautiful garden which is frequently visited by a troop of vervet monkeys and many beautiful birds. The kitchen and bathrooms are dated and the power is not reliable, but the sunshine makes up for those.
Are there any employment/ training opportunities?
Work opportunities are scarce for spouses. There are a few jobs that come up at the British High Commission from time to time. I was the Community Liaison Officer on our last posting to Nairobi and although the commute into the Central Business District was quite brutal, it was a very rewarding position.
What about schools/ childcare?
Schools are fantastic here; all follow the British curriculum, and the prep schools are of a particularly good standard. The sport available for children in schools is incredible.
Where do army families get together and who supports you?
We have amazing restaurants and bars in Karen, so we often meet up in those, where the food and drinks are very good and not too expensive. Families also get together to visit markets, basket shops and curio shops. We tend to support each other, as we are a cohesive team and all live within a short distance of each other.
How do you find the cost of living out there?
Shopping is very expensive, especially if purchasing imported goods. When eating out, prices are comparable to the UK and sometimes slightly cheaper.
What are the best and worst things about living there?
The best things are undoubtedly the incredible beach holidays and wildlife safaris, the weather and the friendly people. The worst things are corruption, potential robberies and general lack of security.
I would absolutely recommend Nairobi as a family posting. It ticks all the boxes, and this is our second posting! There is so much to do, and you won’t fit it all in during your two to three-year posting.
Want to share your experiences of army family life? Get in touch by emailing editor@aff.org.uk