Kajiado, Karen, Gitombo and Nairobi, Kenya
Trip Overview: Kenya – Autism & Developmental Disorders Training
Team Leader:
Karen Robbins, [email protected]
Trip Purpose:
This trip is focused on equipping local healthcare providers, educators, and community leaders in Kenya with practical knowledge and skills related to autism and other developmental disorders. The goal is to increase awareness, improve early identification, and support intervention strategies within local communities.
Location & Hosts:
Primary host: Wanji Mukunga
Emergency Contact: +254 747 6439634
Team Size:
Approximately 6 team members
Teaching Focus:
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Autism Spectrum Disorders
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Speech and Language Disorders
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Occupational and Developmental Disorders
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Dyslexia
Additional Teaching Opportunities:
May be identified based on local needs during the trip.
Lodging:
Team members will stay in a combination of locations including:
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Brackenhurst Conference Center (Limuru)
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Accommodations in Kajiado
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Nairobi (including host home lodging as needed)
Meals:
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Breakfast and dinner typically provided at lodging locations
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Lunches generally at local restaurants
In-Country Transportation:
Group travel via van
Travel Notes:
Common international layover city: Amsterdam
Estimated Costs:
- In-country daily cost: $200.00
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Estimated airfare: $2,300-$2,900
Typical Daily Schedule:
Team members will travel by van each day to various conference or training locations to provide teaching and participate in ministry activities.
Language:
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Primary teaching language: English
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Local language: Swahili
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Interpreters: Available in Kajiado as needed
Time Zone:
East Africa Time (EAT)
Climate:
Generally dry, cool, and pleasant
Religious Context:
Kenya has a diverse religious landscape, including approximately 33% Protestant, along with Catholic, Muslim, and traditional belief systems.
Passport Requirements:
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Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond travel dates
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Must have at least 2 blank pages
Visa Requirements:
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Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) required prior to travel
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Apply online at: www.etakenya.go.ke
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Applications should be submitted at least 5 days before travel (up to 3 months in advance)
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Required documents: valid passport, passport-style photo, travel itinerary, and accommodation details
Immunizations:
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No vaccinations required
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Recommended: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine immunizations (MMR, Tdap, Polio)
In-Country CMDA Presence:
Yes (contact details to be provided)
Trip Itinerary & Dates:
The team will begin in Gitombo, Nairobi, and Kajiado (a Maasai region), .
Dates: July 19 - 30, 2026
Note: Dates are somewhat flexible. Team members who cannot participate for the full duration should coordinate with the Team Leader.
It is highly recommended each participant traveling outside the US to complete the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP): https://mytravel.state.gov/s/step
Forms
CMDA/MEI Waiver Required
Please download, complete, and return the CMDA/MEI waiver to [email protected] ASAP. This waiver is required per trip.
Background check
All MEI participants are required to do an annual background check (every 12 months). Click here to complete your information and provide consent: https://ministryopportunities.org/CMDA
Requirements
Prerequisites
- If not enclosed with the application, please forward a copy of your passport that has an expiration date at least 6 months from the date of entry, 12 months is preferred.
- Healthcare professionals, please upload a copy of your current CV (Current within the last 3 years.)
- Healthcare professionals, please forward a copy of your medical license valid through the trip dates. (If you no longer maintain a license, you can participate in teaching, but are not permitted to provide any patient care.)
- Healthcare professionals, please forward a copy of your board certification or any other certifications related to your assignment on this trip.
Responsibilities
- Discuss with the Team Leader your topic for lecture preparations.
- Download and complete the waiver 30 days prior to your departure date (or immediately upon applying).
- Complete the authorization form for the background check 30 days days prior to your departure date (or immediately upon applying).
- All participants are encouraged to self-enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program: https://mytravel.state.gov/s/step
Restrictions
- You must be in relatively good physical condition and can walk a minimum of one mile.
- Please click on the secure link provided below to complete your information and provide consent for the annual background check. https://ministryopportunities.org/CMDA
- All participants must download and complete the waiver per prior to acceptance (see forms).
Preparation
- Discuss with team leader your topics for lecture preparation.
- Immunizations - www.cdc.gov/travel
- Did you complete and submit your waiver?
- Did you complete the background authorization form?
- Forward all necessary medical credentials as discussed with your team leader to [email protected].


