Anne's Updates from Kenya

Update #14

2008-03-30T08:34:00.000-07:00

When I first came to Kenya I witnessed people struggling with unemployment and idleness, those problems still exist, but for the last year and half I have been able to see people gain hope through education and job training. The country of Kenya was improving in so many ways, now its fate is spiraling toward chaos.

Since my return to Nairobi we have experienced times of relative peace (at least in the areas we live and work), yet what started as an election dispute has turned into country wide tribal clashes. We continue to ask ourselves when it will end.

Everyone has been affected in one way or another. A teacher's family, who live upcountry, evacuated their home due to raider attacks. A friend in Nairobi is left with nothing after his home was broken into and all of his belongings stolen. The brother of a Light and Power board member was told by his Pastor to leave his home and land quickly. The following day the Pastor and his gang burned the home following a promise of money to build a larger home on the same land. Students stuck in Western Kenya returned to Akiba weeks late famished and tired. From Kisumu to Nakuru and most recently Naivasha and Nairobi, homes are being burned, shops looted, and people displaced.

The newspapers write of the attacks, the burnings, the curfews, the killings. When will peace come? Raila Odinga refuses to become Kibaki's prime minister and Kibaki rejects the idea of stepping down. However, peace talks continue with Kofi Annan and his team of negotiators on hand. Is this the answer though? It seems the anger of the people is no longer about ODM or PNU, but about land distribution, unemployment, and revenge. Church this past Sunday was a venue to talk about solutions- stop blaming others, get involved, and look at other tribes in a positive light- everywhere you go conversations are about the current situation.

One positive thing I witnessed was Jamhuri Park- an Internally Displaced People (IDP) camp. We visited the camp where displaced families from Mathare and Kibera stayed. Hundreds of volunteers joined hands to serve food, offer blankets, provide counseling, and receive donations. An organization called the Alliance of Churches ran the camp. The group consisted of various Christian denominations, which formed solely for the purpose of helping those affected by the post-election violence. Unfortunately, the government closed the camp last week.

Overall, people are at a standstill as the economy plummets. We continue with teaching, encouraging, and planning because to do otherwise would admit that this country is falling apart. I am not from the Kikuyu or Luo tribe, I do not understand the rationale for the violence, but I will keep on listening to the cries of the people. My love for this place and people go on.

Keep praying!
Anne

*I am doing fine and call people before I leave in the morning to make sure things are safe in Kangemi and Kawangware. Akiba School and Light and Power Centre are open and in fact the board held a Light and Power planning/strategy day last Friday. We are looking into options for the young men at the Centre to move onto other trainings. Personally, I am also excited about Akiba graduates receiving sponsorships to attend University and various training colleges. Progress continues in small ways despite the challenges this country
faces.

DOWNLOAD AS PDF: UPDATE 14

Update #13

2008-02-29T08:33:00.000-08:00

One of the greatest things about working in Nairobi is visibly seeing the many blessings before me. By removing the distractions and stepping back from the constant schedules, we can see blessings in almost everything. This past month I thank God for showering me with people that serve as blessings in my life and in turn offer me encouragement.

Yesterday my friend Katie returned to the States after spending three weeks with us. Katie served on my discernment team when I began to pray about the opportunity to serve in Nairobi. It was wonderful to show her this country and for her husband to share in the experience for a week. In the coming weeks we will spend time with two other friends from The Falls Church. I thank God for blessing me with visitors who have a willingness to serve.

This month we revisited the Gitao coffee farm and I spent quality time with Edith Gitao, the manager of Akiba School. This woman continues to amaze me. We have developed a relationship build on trust and I truly consider her my "Cucu"- grandmother. I thank God for blessing me with friendships that teach the value of wisdom.

Just over a year ago we moved into the new Light and Power house. With limited bag orders this past month we worked on cleaning the house in preparation for renovations- we spent our days scrubbing and sanding walls as we hope to soon repaint the inside of the place. The transformation that continues to occur in this place is incredible. Despite a lack of orders, the guys still show up at the Centre to read books, spend time in fellowship, and work in whatever capacity they can. The young men also visited one of the remaining Nairobi IDP (internally displaced people) camps this month, helping to serve those who were forced to flee their homes. There willingness to look beyond themselves touches me deeply. Two former Light and Power leaders (Hassan and Abdi) returned to Gatina for a brief period of time this month. I played soccer with Hassan again and the other guys in the Gatina area. It was encouraging to hear about Hassan's advancement in the military and Abdi's job opportunities after completing pharmacy school. I thank God for blessing me with brothers who respect my role to help them.

We visited Mudzini Kwetu last weekend and I was amazed at the growth of the young girls. They continue to mature and develop unique personality traits. When I first visited Mudzini in Dec. 2006 there were 24 girls, they now cater for 33 children. The committed staff and loving children make this place so dear to my heart. I thank God for blessing me with the opportunity to continually visit Mudzini and see the compassion given to each child there.

Most importantly, thank you to all of you who continue to read my updates and support me in this work.

As I reflect on the past month, I can't help but also look forward and be reminded of my few months remaining in Kenya. I am saddened by the thought of leaving. I think the word that summarizes my time here is joy. Pure joy! I love the people, the ministries, and even the driving in this place. The Lord has blessed me with an intense time of happiness. The poverty and struggles of families weigh on you, yet I remind myself- "Anything is possible if a person believes." Lord, I do believe.

*The latest political update is that a peace agreement has been signed and a shared government will begin. We praise God for bringing forth this resolution. The pains caused by the clashes will take time to heal, but the agreement is a good start. Thankfully, churches are gathering together for a caravan of healing and reconciliation that will begin March 7th-17th, traveling from Mombasa to Nairobi, then Nakuru, and on to Kisumu and Eldoret. Pray that people may have a heart to truly forgive.

DOWNLOAD AS PDF: UPDATE 13

Update #12

2007-11-30T08:32:00.000-08:00

Another update from Nairobi...

This past month I spent more time with the Light and Power guys. I have such a heart for these young men and enjoy getting to know about their families, struggles, and dreams. Five of them ran the Nairobi half marathon a few weeks ago- their first (Pictured on the left). They all beat me by over an hour! Kenyans are fast and as I learned on our practice run they are like energizer bunnies. They took me on a "practice" run that turned into a trial 21km race. Thankfully, one guy would stay back with me and go at my pace, but between the hills and fumes from matatus, buses, and cars I was ready to collapse by the end. Then, this past weekend we took a trip to Fourteen Falls in Thika. We try to do one activity with Light and Power every month- whether it is a soccer game or a trip somewhere. They jump at any chance to get out of the Gatina slum. At Fourteen Falls we did a bit of hiking and exploring- it was a wonderful day and they were disappointed when we had to return to Nairobi (Pictured on the right).

By the end of this month the guys at Light and Power will have made over 4,000 bags in November alone! It is incredible to see the hearts and lifestyles of these young men change and at the same time the business grow. I continue to struggle with the idea of combining a ministry with a business, but realize that by offering people a tangible hope through consistent income you are allowing them to comprehend an everlasting hope in the Lord. We haven't had any thefts lately and things seem to be stabilizing. They recently completed a 1,000-bag order for the UN and are currently working on Christmas bags- thanks to a graphic designer in America who gave us the idea. We will be bringing them home in December, so if don't feel like dealing with wrapping paper and tape- let us know-it will be great way to support the young men at Light and Power.

The Akiba School year is coming to a close on November 30th. The class 8 and Form 4 (senior) students will finish the National Exams this week. I will give my Form II students their final exam next week. This month I spent any free time tutoring those struggling in class. It has been my prayer this entire year that they would change their mindset about math. I hope they have seen the importance of this subject. We just finished a chapter on statistics and with the Kenyan presidential election underway right now it served as an opportunity for them to see the application of math. They learned about pie charts, bar graphs, sampling, etc. and Saturday's newspaper highlighted the recent polls, demonstrating everything they just learned.

Students at the Akiba School

I have also spent some of my time connecting various organizations/groups together. There is a HIV/AIDS community group connected with the Anglican Church in an area called Kuwinda. The women here recently went through an arts and craft training for 5 weeks and learned how to make beautiful necklaces out of recycled products. I am working to connect their Board with organizations that already have an established marketplace for selling.

As ministries begin to close and wind down for the Christmas holidays, Amber and I will head to Mombasa at the beginning of December. As my family joined in throwing a pre-Christmas party for the girls last year, Amber and I will try to continue the tradition at Mudzini Kwetu.

I look forward to seeing most of you when I am back in America for Christmas! I still wake up each morning with a joy to serve and feel so blessed to have the opportunity to be in Kenya. Thanks for your emails and notes of encouragement.

-Anne

DOWNLOAD AS PDF: UPDATE 12

Update #11 - Recent Pictures from Kenya

2007-10-30T08:31:00.000-07:00

Below are some pictures from our time in Kikambala. Thanks to all who donated swimming suits or bathing costumes as we call them in Kenya! The girls looked so cute in them.

Anne and Brendah

Anne and Celina

DOWNLOAD AS PDF: UPDATE 11

Update #10

2007-09-30T08:30:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends and Family,
This update should have gone out about two weeks ago- sorry for the delay. Life has been extremely busy since we returned to Kenya September 5th. Our initial arrival at the Nairobi airport reminded me of the disorganization and corruption so prevalent in this country. As I went to pay for my visa I was told my $50 bill would not be accepted because it was printed in 1996, a common year for counterfeit bills. Thus, I was forced to pull money out of the ATM (in shillings) then exchange the shillings back into dollars to pay for my visa. All of this, so they could put my money in an open box- no cash register- no computerized receipt.

Overall, my return here has been marked by progress, yet confrontation with the same obstacles. This past month God has convicted me of the fact that I need to commit more time to prayer. Prayer for the ministries we are serving at, the people we are working alongside, and all of God's blessings. Trying to get back into the swing of things, I lost sight of my purpose to love God first and foremost. I am in awe of how He has protected me thus far, how He has kept me in good health, and how He has given me strength to overcome daily frustrations. There is so much to be thankful for. Being in America for a month made me realize how much I love the guys at Light and Power Centre and my Form II students at Akiba. They are my passion and have been my focus for over a year now!

Within the first week of our return, one of the leaders at Light and Power Centre was released for inappropriate behavior and a succession of thefts followed by lies. It is hard to see people go, but a leader must be an example to others and this guy failed in that area. On the brighter side, the Centre is seeing progress in all areas. Bag orders have consistently been over 3,000/month for the past 3 months. Five out of the nine guys signed up for the matching funds savings program. This is a program requiring them to set aside at least 10% of their bi-monthly salary for skills training courses (driving school, college, etc). At the point of withdrawal their savings will be matched either 50% or 100%, depending on the length of their participation in the program. The Saturday Children's Program now has over 50 kids attending. The guys have truly taken ownership of this program. They lead the children in games and songs, followed by a puppet show of various bible lessons. It is wonderful to see the adults in the community stopping by to see why there are so many children at the Centre. Also, thanks to a contribution by one of our board members, five of the guys will be participating in the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon. On October 28 th, they will run the ½ marathon with me and the board member who supported them to run.

Teaching continues at Akiba. I have 39 students this term and have tried to be more strict with them about completing homework and staying in during break times for tutoring if they performed poorly on exams. It is a constant challenge with them though as I try to have them learn concepts versus the memorization techniques taught to them in the past. Hard to believe that there are only five more weeks left in the 2007 school year at Akiba.

During midterm break from school, Amber and I traveled to Kikambala to visit the girls at Mudzini Kwetu. We both look forward to these trips so much. The girls at the home are full of energy and incredible happiness. Our trip included spending time with the staff, taking the girls to the beach, and pushing them over and over again on their new tire swing. When I visited in July there were two new additions to Mudzini- a set of 9 month old twins- who were appointed by the court to stay at Mudzini until their mother was capable of taking care of them. They were both malnourished when they arrived and had been mistreated by their mother. Unfortunately, Macharia (the boy) was admitted to the hospital a few days before we arrived. We visited him in the hospital, which was quite an experience. Outside the building there were hundreds of mothers with their babies waiting to see a doctor or to receive medication. In the "private" children's wing the mothers had the role of the nurses. Someone from Mudzini stayed with Macharia each night and gave him water through his feeding tube. This morning we received the sad news that he passed away. During my time in Kenya, I feel like I constantly hear about a death in someone's family. However, this was the first time that the impact of death really hit me.

Kenyans don't have all the American resources, yet they make the most of what they do have. The majority of Kenyans live in a world different from ours. It is not the world that must change, but the people in that world. Even if I can't relate all the time, I have come to accept this world. As we were driving along the coast, the sites to my left and right no longer struck me as something different. I have accepted the rows of mud huts, the children walking home from school (probably at least a 3 mile walk), the women carrying timber or water on their heads, and the men sitting idle. There is so much I wish to change in Kenya, but change in this country will only start with incredible transformation in people's heart.

As I continue to serve at various ministries during my second year, I appreciate your support and prayers.

In Christ's love,
Anne
www.kenyaconnection.org

DOWNLOAD AS PDF: UPDATE 10

Update #9

2007-08-30T12:43:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

As I prepare for my second year in Kenya, here are my reflections on the last year.

Looking down from the second story of Akiba School, I see class three students playing jump rope and class one chasing each other around the uneven concrete courtyard. Every time I become frustrated with my surroundings or the Kenyan culture, I take a step outside and look down in the courtyard. I remind myself of the joy found in children- their innocence to the world around them. The loving nature of children and their carefree spirit remind me to take time to invest in people. And even if you don’t see change, you know that you tried your best to influence, motivate, or help someone. Pictured above: After school with some of the primary students; To the right: Morning assembly at Akiba School

The past 10 months spent in Kenya, God has shown me the limits of my capabilities and the possibilities of His. I entered this experience not sure where I would be staying, what I would be doing, or how God would use me. The first couple of months were spent getting to know people and settling into this new place. We came with the mission of serving The Falls Church partner ministries in Nairobi and God has led me to help at two places in particular: Akiba School and Light and Power Centre. I think the most important thing I have learned is that God uses all past experiences to prepare you for the future ones. My accounting and business skills gained in college have helped at Light and Power. The brief teaching experiences I have been exposed to have equipped me to have patience with my math students at Akiba. It has been incredible to see how God orchestrates people, places, and experiences together. Pictured above: One of the "slum" areas where we work; To the right: Children from the Light and Power Saturday Program

You all are the reason I am able to continue to experience so much. Because of your support, God is molding me into the person he desires me to be and showing me the direction he wants for my life. I want to take this opportunity to sincerely thank all of you for your support. I remember the moment God called me back to Kenya- I was overcome with emotions- crying and feeling such a strong sense that this was the step I was supposed to take. However, it wasn’t until each of you encouraged me in the process and felt the need to contribute that everything came together.

I look at what I have done this past year- serving people through teaching, tutoring, coaching, and helping, but the most important thing God has done is to allow me to learn. Learn about another country, another culture, another group of people. Through the work I am doing in Kenya, God continues to teach me something new about his nature. Recently, I have been taught about what it means to be a child of God. So as I enter my second year serving in Kenya, I return to the courtyard. I return to the image of a child and I see joy and freedom. Because of the sacrifice Jesus made, we are all able to experience that freedom- not constrained by the problems of this world, but free to pursue our passions and use the gifts the Lord has given us. Our time on earth is brief and the journey not always easy, but I am excited to see how God continues to weave each of our lives together. Thanks for allowing God to carry out his purposes for my life and may we each continue to exemplify Jesus in all we do.

Grace and Peace,
Anne

Ways to stay involved:

Continue to pray for the effectiveness of our ministry in Kenya
Consider becoming more involved at Akiba, Light and Power, or other ministry partners by donating clothes, calculators, books, or consider helping a boy at Light and Power to attend technical school or college- email me at astoehr@gmail.com if you are interested
Continue to financially support the work we are doing through Kenya Connection- www.kenyaconnection.org click on Donations for more information

DOWNLOAD AS PDF: UPDATE 9

Update #8

2007-06-30T12:35:00.000-07:00

My first trip to Kenya was life transforming- my eyes were opened to a new world. This past week I had another eye opening experience as I traveled to three places in Northern Kenya- Marsabit, Kamboe, and Sagante. I met people of different tribes, learned about the upcoming circumcision ritual (which only occurs every 15 years), and soaked up four amazing cultures. Through it all, I learned that God teaches us through people- people who live a different life yet share the same hope in the Lord.                                      Samburu women in their “everyday” wear

The trip started with a flight in a 5-seater plane. We flew over the many buildings in Nairobi- the skyscrapers and tin roofs common in slum areas. The further we traveled the more desolate the land became- dried up rivers, craters, and no development for miles. After the 1.5 hour flight, we landed in Marsabit- a windy, dusty, and dry place. Most of the women cover their heads and instead of Kiswahili I was introduced to the local tribal language called Borana.
                                              Aerial view of Nairobi slums

                                   The landscape as we flew to Northern Kenya

The second day I traveled with Bishop Todd McGregor and a group from Florida to a village called Kamboe. Kamboe experienced extreme famine in the mid 1990s- where most of their livestock died- but now with the help of USAID a source for water has been found. The houses are manure huts and the day spent herding cattle and goats. Amazingly, there is school in this remote village that in the past 4 years has become one of the top primary schools in the Province. The students wake up at 4:30 to begin studying and the benefits from their dedication are being seen. It was encouraging to see the importance of education in such an isolated place.                                           Children from the Komboe village

I am back in Nairobi feeling unsettled in my once comfortable environment. Nairobi is a bustling city- the complete opposite of huts and long walks to the get water. Sometimes the city consumes us and we get wrapped up in material things, in success, and in doing something. God has opened my eyes to just being- just experiencing- and just learning. The Samburu people are living a pure life- a life without drugs, alcohol, or other Western influences. Yes, they have many challenges, but they have a culture rich in love and living as a community. Many people in Kenya wish to go to America, yet I want to stay here and continue to learn. Life is about finding joy and hope and I think if we remove the distractions around us we can truly become what God desires us to be. We can become people who love one another unconditionally, who pray without ceasing, and who honor God with our lives.

Other happenings:

A group with Hands on Hands from Florida spent time with us at Akiba. We had a great time painting the outside school walls with a map of Africa, Kenya, and other pictures to be used for learning purposes.
Took a 14 hour bus trip to Uganda to go white water rafting. It was great to see another East African country- one that seemed safer and not quite as corrupt. Rafting the Nile River was quite an adventure, especially as we entered the last class 5 rapids (called the Bad Place), flipping and being tumbled through waves and rocks was an unforgettable experience.
Our roommate Michelle has returned home. It was a real encouragement having her here. It is easy to become consumed in ministry work and forget about the people you are working with. Michelle allowed us to again find joy in what we are doing here.
I will be home August 2nd through the beginning of September. Please let me know if you will be in the Northern Virginia area. It will be great to see people and catch up on your experiences in the past 10 months.
Also, I am starting to fundraise for my second year in Kenya. I appreciate all of you who have supported me through emails, prayers, and finances this past year. An official support letter will go out in August, but in the meantime you can visit www.kenyaconnection.org

Thanks for reading my reflections.
Anne
DOWNLOAD AS PDF: UPDATE 8, PICTURES FROM UPDATE 8

Update #7

2007-05-30T12:02:00.000-07:00

“I call with all my heart, answer me, O Lord, and I will obey your decrees. I call out to you; save me and I will keep your statues. I rise before dawn and cry for help; I have put my hope in your word.”

After a while, you get into the routine of things. Jumping from one thing to the next and you lose sight of the importance of each day and each person you encounter. It is hard when you don’t see progress and everything appears stagnant. You try to teach certain principles and people resort back to their old habits. There may be temporary change, but nothing transforming- nothing lasting. This is the hardest stage in ministry- not seeing the fruit of your work. My students continue to perform poorly on their quizzes and fail to complete their homework. There is still theft occurring at Light and Power and a lack of respect for what we are trying to accomplish. Despite the frustrations you may have though, you continue to persevere because you know that your work is not vain. There is a greater reward, a reward that comes to those who remain patient and faithful. I am currently in this waiting period- waiting for God to renew the Spirit of those we work alongside, awaken the hearts of those we teach, and strengthen me in my weakness.

A current weakness I have been battling for the past three months are terrible headaches. After seeking out the help of a doctor and physical therapist, I discovered I am dealing with tension headaches. I have tried to cut back from things that seem to bring on the headaches. My role at Light and Power is more behind the scenes now. I still assist them in their accounting, but have left the marketing and client relations with the boys. I have come to realize that Light and Power is a difficult ministry for me to serve at because of the male/female dynamic. I am surrounded by 12 men, who don’t like receiving direction from a female. However, I have found other ways to spend time with them. This past weekend we took them to the Nigeria vs. Kenya soccer game. It was a great outing and a brief escape from the harsh realities of life in Gatina slum. I was one of two people in the group cheering for Nigeria and thankfully no one had the desire to riot against me, since Nigeria did win the game. We also recently coordinated a soccer match between Akiba School and the Light and Power guys. They still allow me to play with them and we look forward to organizing games in the future. Bag business at the Centre has been slow lately, but we hang on to the promises of the Lord and know that we must remain faithful to the work he has called us to do.

This month, I was able to spend time with people from an organization called Starfish. It is amazing how God brings together people with similar passions. Starfish helps support students in Kenya to attend Secondary School. Secondary school is not free and it is a constant struggle for most parents to pay school fees. Starfish takes those students who are extremely bright (and needy) and gives them an opportunity to continue to pursue their studies. I participated in a Habitat for Humanity Project with them. It was nice to be away from the city for a few days and back in the rural parts of Kenya without electricity and running water. During the course of helping to build a home, I learned a bit of masonry work and now know what it is like to fetch water from the river followed by a hike uphill. All in all, I enjoyed the opportunity to get to know their students and some of the Board members. During the rest of my time here, I will be helping their field officer with reporting finances to their stateside Board.

Probably one of the most exciting things this past month was participating in the National Prayer Breakfast. The National Prayer Breakfast is hosted by Members of Parliament that meet regularly to pray for their nation. Sam and Lynn Owen (friends from The Falls Church that have lived in Kenya for 20+ years) are very involved in ministering to the leadership in Kenya and this event opened my eyes to the importance of reaching out to politicians, businessmen, and other people holding influential positions. The theme was character in leadership and we had the opportunity to hear from the VP of Kenya and Wangari Maathai. It was a wonderful experience to be among people from all over Africa, joining together to pray for integrity and stability. As we were recently blessed with a vehicle, we were able to serve a group of Ugandans by driving them to/from the weekend long events. The weekend taught me that serving can be the simplest thing- letting someone stay at your house or offering a ride to someone in need.

I am off to the orphanage in Mombasa this weekend. Friday is a National Holiday, so I will have 3 solid days to spend with the lovely girls there. I pray it will be a time to relax and soak up the daily joy found in the children.

Thanks for reading about what I have been up to this month. I continue to feel so blessed by having people back home praying for me. Let me know what is happening in your life when you get the chance.

Love, Anne

DOWNLOAD AS PDF: UPDATE 7

Update #6

2007-04-30T11:56:00.000-07:00

Yet another greeting from Nairobi...

April has been a month filled with traveling around Kenya and spending time with friends. After giving my students their final exam, Amber, Michelle (new roommate), and I headed to Hell's Gate National Park with our mentor Patsy and her daughter Charese. We hiked through a gorge and just enjoyed the uniqueness of this place. On Maundy Thursday, I participated in my first Passover Seder dinner at St. Julian's Center. Pictured above, with Patsy

For Easter weekend we traveled to Kikambala to spend time with the girls at Mudzini Kwetu. This is the children's home that I went to with my family over Christmas. We stayed in cottages along the beach and had a joyful Easter celebration searching for seashells, playing in the pool, giving manicures, making beaded bracelets, putting together Easter baskets and introducing them to their first egg hunt (some of the after the egg hunt pictured at right). The 30 girls are very dear to my heart- Rahema with her mini dreadlocks and striking eyes, Christine with her inquisitive nature, Celina with her playful spirit, Maryann with her incredible dancing skills, Wambui with her belly that seems to always seek more food... and 25 other unique girls that I think about almost everyday now. After two and a half days of playing, we headed down the coast to "relax" on the beach. Although Amber claims I wasn't officially relaxing because I was at the same time marketing Light and Power paper bags at hotels.
Mudzini Kwetu Girls and Staff, along with lawyers Victor, Sam, and James

I then headed back to Njoro, the village where I worked almost 2 years ago now. I stayed with Pastor Peter and his family. Also, I spent time with Teresia, a girl who I sponsor to go to high school. She is now a sophomore (Form 2) and I was able to see the boarding school where she goes. I was very impressed with the warm reception I received from her classmates. Amazing how much bigger the school campus is compared to Akiba- I guess rural area vs. the city. It was a great weekend and nice to worship again at Shiloh Sanctuary (Pastor Peter's church).
Teresia (far right) and her friends at Larmudiac Secondary School

Akiba School has a few more days of tuition and then Term two won't begin until May 7th. During the time Akiba is on break, we are planning to roll out an intense marketing campaign for Light and Power. The boys are currently paid about $30 per month (right now we have no outside donors and salaries are paid based on production), but with more bag orders we hope to see this increase. I will also be helping Sports Outreach Ministry in coaching girls' soccer. In my free time, I will be training for a half marathon- this time through a game park! Our team will need to raise about $1,500 for the race and the funds will go to the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy.

I will be returning home for the month of August before we serve our second year here. We arrive back in Virginia on August 2nd, so I hope to see many of you during that month.

Much love,
Anne

"I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord." Psalm 27:13-14
DOWNLOAD AS PDF: UPDATE 6, PICTURES FROM UPDATE 6

Update #5

2007-01-30T11:53:00.000-08:00

I am happy to send a more positive update this time...

Have you ever felt that where you are at in life is just the place God wants you to be? That each day he is molding you into the person He desires for you to be? Well, I am at this point in my life. There is this excitement inside of me that I can’t explain. I am at peace and love the work I am doing. It is a joy to get to know my students- to teach them and in turn they teach me more about myself. Stability is beginning to take shape at Light and Power. We have a solid group of 12 guys working at the center ranging from ages 15 to 28. We had them each fill out application forms for the 2007 year and were touched by their stories, visions for the future, and desire to transform and help their community. There are still issues of deceit and lack of responsibility that we are praying through. We will not let Satan have a stronghold, so please join us in praying against the work of the enemy.

I have started to play soccer with some guys in Gatina on Mondays. They have welcomed me into their training sessions and even pass me the ball during scrimmages- unheard of if I played with guys in the States. Wednesday evenings I go to the YMCA and get my exercise playing squash. This is a great forum to meet Kenyan leaders that our friend Sammy brings from Nairobi Chapel. The other week I played a prominent lawyer who was in exile during the Moi regime because of his fight for justice. Too bad I didn’t realize this until after I beat him- next time I think I should let the older Kenyan man who has lived a tough life win.

Dave moved into a place a few streets over last weekend. Amber and I are keeping the extra room open for any visitors. All are welcome! We really feel blessed to have found such a great apartment- it is safe and an easy matatu ride to get to both Akiba and Light and Power.

At the end of January, I had the opportunity to meet with individuals working with Sports Outreach Ministries. Sports outreach is one of my true passions and I had a great time visiting Mukuru (another slum) with them this past weekend. They partner with an informal school (the students don’t even have the money to buy a uniform to go to public school) and help in teaching and provide porridge to the students each day (for some their only meal). On Saturdays, they gather the children for Bible lessons, games, and again porridge. It was great to see the work they are doing and I think we will be able to replicate some of it at Light and Power in Gatina. Also, once a month a support group for men and women with HIV/AIDS come together for a meeting, fellowship, and speakers. I had the opportunity to speak to them about the importance of community- basically I just encouraged them in what they were already doing. The organization also hosts soccer clinics and coach high school teams- I hope to help out once a week with coaching.

My family with the students my parents help support-
Jane (class 6) and Seth (Form 1).
Also in picture are Jane’s uncles Alex and Geoffrey (in back).

All of us together for Christmas!

The joy of the girls at Mudzini Kwetu

Some of the animals seen during our Maasai Mara adventure

Thanks for your amazing support!
Anne

DOWNLOAD AS PDF: UPDATE 5, PICTURES FROM UPDATE 5

Update #4

2006-12-20T18:13:00.000-08:00

Exams are done and report cards turned in- Akiba School has closed for the year. Serving there this past term has been a challenging, yet rewarding time. It was hard getting used to the Kenyan teaching style- emphasis on class positions, exams, and grading scales where an A is 75 or above. We have formed great relationships with the teachers and are starting to get to know the students on a personal basis. The last week of school was filled with a variety of fun activities. On closing day there was the Kenyan form of a talent show. Each class prepared either a poem, song, or dance for the whole school. It was a joy to watch the children perform and we definitely had some good laughs. The best was when some Form 3 students decided to imitate their teachers’ gestures- one brave soul impersonated the principal. The following day we threw a teacher appreciation party. It was the best day yet in Kenya! All 30 teachers gathered at the school to spend time preparing a meal together- including slaughtering a sheep (who we nicknamed Abe). I was placed in the chapati (like tortillas) cooking department and finally realized why they are so good- they use tons of cooking fat. We also spent the day playing volleyball, soccer, and basketball. Following the meal all of us partook in
dancing to Christian worship songs that had a reggae twist.
Pictured, from the top: Class 6 singing a song during closing day; Nursery graduates who will enter class 1 in 2007; Wanderi and Anne making chapatis. Below: Margaret and Wanderi (primary teachers), Jane (secretary) and Purity (headmistress)

Exciting news on the Light and Power front- they are moving to a new facility. Their current facility is located in a flood plain and with all the rain it is a difficult to reach and the paper has the potential to be destroyed. We are excited about the new location and see it as symbolic of the rebirth that will occur at this place. We are working to establish some sort of management base and had a board retreat this past Saturday. Please pray for a balance between the business side of things and mentoring the boys who work there. The majority of ministries seem to shut down during December as workers visit family upcountry and in other parts of Kenya. We too will be taking a bit of a break. I am currently preparing for my parents, brother, and good friend from elementary school to visit December 15-29. It will be great to explore the country and show them around Nairobi, including the places we serve in the Kangemi and Kawangare slums. During our travels, we will stop in Kikambala along the coast to throw a pre-Christmas party for the girls and staff at an orphanage called Mudzini Kwetu. We will be spending Christmas Eve and day as a team at St. Julian’s Retreat Center just north of Nairobi. Then, we will all head on safari for a few days. Akiba School starts up again on January 8th and some intensive Swahili classes will be taken from now until then. The new Light and Power Centre:

Ongoing prayer requests include health (apparently I ate beans with worms in them the other day), safety (December is high crime month), and schedules for the next term starting in January. I wish everyone the very best this Christmas season. May we reflect on the importance of Jesus’ birth and know we are only redeemed people because of him.

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:10-11

Merry Christmas and Peace in the New Year!
Love, Anne

DOWNLOAD AS PDF: UPDATE 4

Update #3

2006-11-30T16:45:00.000-08:00

Akiba School- Things are rather quiet these days at Akiba (literally), as Form 4 and class 8 are sitting for their National Exams. Form 4 students take 22 exams and their scores determine the opportunities available to them in the future. They are tested on every subject they have taken in high school and each day a police officer stands guard at the school with a gun to ensure there is no cheating or helping on the exams- serious stuff.

Arriving at the beginning of October, our teaching schedule has been anything but normal. October is a month filled with holidays, breaks to study for exams, and working to accommodate those taking exams. I taught PE for about a week and then students were not allowed in the courtyard because of noise reasons. I will start that up again in January though. Teaching Math to Form 2 has proved a challenge. In Kenya, students have a negative attitude toward math and half the battle is overcoming those misperceptions. I gave a test and was very discouraged by their results, so I gave a make up exam and 10 students did worse after we reviewed the first test. I struggle with trying to figure out whether I am not a good teacher, they don’t understand my English, or the material is difficult. I am now arriving at school at 7:30 to begin tutoring students and use break times and lunch to tutor as well. I want these students to perform well and figure out the root of the problem. Please pray for my patience and for the students to have “light bulb” moments in class.

Pictured to the left: Some students in one of my favorite classes- grade 3 Teacher Wanderi has been teaching them since grade 1and the students are very respectful and eager to learn. Above: Teacher Daniel, Edith Gitao, and a pastor from Kangemi blessing John (who lives at Akiba) as he prepares to sit for Kenya National exams.

Tulip- Amber and I have decided to visit Tulip Ministry every other Friday. The vision of the center is to give hope to girls who are overcoming abuse and other issues by encouraging them to look beyond becoming pregnant and a victim. The ministry has a variety of programs including vocational training for 4 girls living at the center, private tutoring so students can sit for class 8 exams, and paying for 30 girls to attend boarding schools. During school breaks, camps are held for discipleship training and fellowship. Mary runs the center and we excited to connect her with Akiba to discuss the successes of the sponsorship program. One thing that shocked me during our first visit to Tulip was the view from their property. Tulip is located in the Korogocho slum, which literally means trash heap. From the Tulip house you can see the mounds of Nairobi trash- no land fills- just trash pilled high with smoke rising in the sky from the burning. Pictured above: Some of the girls (Ruth, Mercy, Naomi, and Brenda) escorting Amber to the mutatu.

Light and Power- This is the ministry I am most excited about because there is so much opportunity for growth and transformation. Monday mornings we have board meetings to discuss strategy, roles, problems, and are given updates on the business by the Kenyan guys who lead the center. There are challenges at Light and Power as well. This past week, Boru shared the news that he was taking a translation job upcountry. Boru has been an important presence at Light and Power over the past few years, helping with keeping the books and ensuring accountability. I was beginning to give him accounting pointers and we were planning to work together to do the finances. I have only known him for a few weeks, yet my heart rejoiced and sank at the same time when I heard of his departure. I am so happy that he will have a stable job and be able to help support his family, but at the same time I wanted him to take accounting classes and be a part of the rebirth of Light and Power. He is a perfect example though of how Light and Power can provide hope and change the lives of boys living in the slum.

Nairobi Half Marathon- When we arrived in Nairobi just over a month ago, Sammy mentioned he was running in the half marathon with some of his friends. I pondered it, forgot about it, and then a week before the race I decided I would run it. My training consisted doing two 30 minute runs the week before- not very extensive. With God’s help though, I was able to complete the half marathon in just over 2 hours. It was great to meet other runners along the way (even came across a girl I played soccer with at Rhodes- small world) and I ran the last 5km with a Kenyan named Patricia. It was such a unique experience to run along side the fastest Kenyan marathon runners for a while (as they lapped me). This was the longest race I have ever done and I will definitely train for it properly next year. Photo: At the finish of the Nairobi 1⁄2 Marathon (with friends from the original Nairobi Chapel now known as Mamlaka Hill)

AIM in Kibera- One of the reasons I write to you today is because of the way God touched me my first time in Kenya. This past Tuesday, I had the opportunity to return to the New Adventure School and orphanage where I worked last summer. God stirred up so many emotions in me as I walked the same path into the heart of Kibera through mud and chants of “how are you?” I have great hopes and dreams for Akiba (like a normal playing field and desks that aren’t broken), yet I arrive at this school and they still only have benches and a large room for teaching 4 grades. Is it possible for things to be worse?

It was a joyous reunion though- I had a five minute long embrace with teacher Lucy. I am not sure why God has placed Lucy in my life, but our friendship has withstood the test of time and I was so happy to see her (she even remembered that my mom was a nurse). Lucy is a volunteer teacher at the school simply because she doesn’t want to be idle. She is the oldest in her family and needs money to pursue further education (only finished form 4), yet she doesn’t beg or question why God hasn’t provided for her. She is an inspiration to me! It was also great to visit with the orphanage children and see how much they have grown and matured.

We have started to read a book about desiring God and I pray that I may live each day filled with joy in serving my Lord. Joy in knowing that God has my life already planned out and that he is working in the lives of you and me. Thanks for placing your trust and finances in the eternal work God is doing in Kenya.

More pictures: Mount Longonat

Above, left: View as we walked along the rim of the crater. Right: Still trekking - just a bit wet (Amber, Anne, Dungue, Graham).

Nairobi National Park

Kangemi Slum

Above, left: Shops along our route to school. Right: November has been a month of rain and thus we get to walk through these massive mud puddles each day.

DOWNLOAD AS PDF: UPDATE 3, PICTURES FROM UPDATE 3

Update #2

2006-10-30T08:56:00.000-08:00

What an exciting past few weeks it has been. Here are a few highlights:

1. Nairobi International Trade Fair (aka “The Show”)
The Show occurs once a year and lasts for a week. It consists of a variety of agricultural and business displays, as well as, swings, bumper cars, and face painting for the kids. Sounds like a great thing to attend (some of the kids are pictured at right). Well, it would be if you went on any other day, but Friday when practically every other school in Kenya goes. So Amber and I ventured into this school field trip for grades 1-3 not knowing exactly what it would entail. It started with a bus ride with Christmas lights stringed inside the vehicle and Swahili music videos playing. Once we arrived we entered into the masses of humanity (imagine a mosh pit area at a concert and you will have a glimpse of the amount of people we were trying to walk through). Wouldn’t be too bad if you were by yourself, but with 4 kids to your left and 3 to your right, navigating was a bit difficult. Needless to say, one of the teachers lost a child because he ran away when a camel started coming his way. For 2 hours we went around searching for him. Praise God- we found him at the front gate scared and crying. He definitely received special treatment for the rest of the day. All in all, Kenyan field trips are a bit different than ones in America.

2. Church
Two Sunday’s ago we met up with Patsy and Todd McGregor at St. Julian’s retreat center (pictured on the left) just outside of Nairobi for their church service. Both are ordained Anglican ministers and Todd will be commissioned as a Bishop to Madagascar in December. Church with them was a wonderful time of fellowship and community. We were able to met 4 families who also live and work in Nairobi. After church, we had a delightful afternoon with brunch and a few games of volleyball. This past Sunday we attended St. Mark’s Anglican Church, which is within walking distance from our apartment. This is the home church for Mrs. Gitao, who started the Akiba School. We went to their youth service, which basically means contemporary worship because families, married couples, and young adults were there. The people were so warm and we enjoyed tea and samosas (meat and onions in a fried pastry) afterwards.

3. Light and Power Board Meeting
This meeting left me feeling both excited and a bit overwhelmed. The meeting was held at the Muthiaga Club (rent Out of Africa movie and you will know what I am talking about) and the members of the board include Sam Owen, Phillip Gitao (in the coffee business), and George Mayena (former Shell executive). With the huge order from the UN, Light and Power is becoming registered as an official business and a Trust is being set up. There is so much growth and potential for this business and hope for the boys living in the Gatina slums. One thing they have yet to establish though is an accounting system- this is where I come in. I will be training one of the boys on how to keep track of their revenues and expenses and helping the board gain an understanding of where the business stands financially.

4. Picking up our furniture
Picture this- 3 beds, a coffee table, desk, and 2 nightstands pilled in the back of a small pickup truck (I mean really small). Now throw Dave and the furniture maker, Julian, in the back of the truck with the furniture. Add in Amber and myself in the front seat squished next to the driver, who is trying to change gears. Next, take this vehicle through part of the slums- unpaved roads, dirt mounds and holes, and people walking everywhere. I am learning that everything is an adventure in Kenya- you go with the flow and pray that things work out. Pictured: Anne's room

5. Rift Valley Academy (RVA)
This past Saturday we headed to RVA to get a touch of America and cheer the McGregor’s daughter Corby on in her basketball tournament. What an amazing school- the majority of the students are boarders and their parents are missionaries all over Africa. RVA won the whole tournament and we also watched some high school guy’s soccer games. The Rift Valley area of Kenya (pictured below) is gorgeous!

Prayer requests include continued discernment as to our involvement at the various ministries. We visited Beacon of Hope the other day. I was in awe of everything the center provides for people in various slums (mainly Kware)- they have a clinic, test and counsel people for HIV/AIDS, train men and women to make rugs, place mats, and wraps to provide an income, provide business training for women to start their own businesses, sponsor children to attend school, do home visits to provide food to women who can’t find work, and have a nursery and school for the small children of the workers at the center. Transportation to the center will be an issue and the center is pretty self sustaining so our involvement is uncertain.

Also, pray for the health of our team. I was sick for 2 days last week- not sure if it was food poisoning or something, but I had to stay at home and skip out on spending time at Akiba School. I have started to feel better, so I thank God for beginning to heal my body.

DOWNLOAD AS PDF: UPDATE 2, PICTURES FROM UPDATE 2

Update #1

2006-09-30T08:52:00.000-07:00

Here is the first of many updates...

If you haven’t already heard from me, we arrived safely in Nairobi. I felt a real sense of peace and joy as we were greeted at the airport by Sammy from Nairobi Chapel. How I missed the welcoming spirit of Kenyans. As I awoke the following morning, I took in the “unique” smells of Kenya and embraced the cool morning weather, finding it hard to believe I was actually back.

Our first week was spent at the Mennonite Guest House, which became our base for prayer, the apartment search, and getting accustomed to life in Kenya. We were truly blessed to stay at this place- beautiful garden, delightful tea time, American meals with a Kenyan flare, and conversations with people doing incredible things (one couple from Canada help individuals in rural villages grow crops that provide a balanced diet). Over the weekend, we stayed with Sam and Lynn Owen, who have lived in Nairobi for over 20 years and are connected with The Falls Church. Once again, we were blessed to have them here to help us get settled.

Early this week we moved into an apartment on Sports Road in the Westlands area of Nairobi (thanks Rob and Ellen for your suggestions). Signing the lease was a rather interesting experience and made me remember the corruption and deceit that still exists in this place. We are starting to make our home here and with the Owens help we were able to have wooden furniture made for our beds at a very reasonable price (still looking for the bargains Dad). I never imagined all the items needed to put a flat together from scratch- cooking utensils, cleaning supplies, a few chairs, etc. Pray that our place will allow us to have great times of fellowship with one another.

Enough about us- let me share was has been going on at the various ministries. Last Saturday, we met with Tim and Willis from Light and Power Center. The Center makes bags out of recycled paper, selling them to help create sustainability for boys living in one of the slums. Their work day consists of discipleship training, bible studies, and bag making. Recently, they received an order of 10,000 bags from the United Nations, so the vision for sustainability is becoming a reality. Dave and I will be attending a board meeting on Monday, Oct. 9, so please pray that God will reveal to us how we can help the business continue to grow and enable strong Christian leaders.

We also visited St. Luke’s church, where the Kibera Card Center and computer center are located. We spent time with the women who make greeting cards- the Christmas collection is coming along quite nicely. We met with Jackson, who runs the computer center and it looks like I could be helping them with some accounting. Yesterday, we visited Akiba School in the Kangemi slum. We sat in a few classes, I taught a few PE games, and we began discussing how we will spend our time at the school. I have a heart for helping graduates of Form 4 (senior year) realize the opportunities for their future (despite very little money) and God’s faithfulness to his children. My role there will also involve getting to know the sponsored children in a personal way. We are still in the discerning phase and haven’t created a weekly the many possibilities of where we can serve.

Thanks for all of your emails and continued support. I look forward to sharing more about the ministries in the next update.

Much love, Anne

DOWNLOAD AS PDF: UPDATE 1