I wanted
to give a quick update with how things are going here in Kenya and where we are
heading. We’ve been here about
three months and things started off slow, but now that we’ve layed a
foundation, we are starting to see things take off.
First,
and arguably most important, the water situation. Camp Jekazi, another IDP camp about 2 kilometers from Camp
Tumaini, now has a borehole that’s almost 1000 feet deep with water around 140
degrees F. It’s taken a long time but the now have a pump that can get this
water to the surface. Pipe has
been installed from Jekazi to Tumaini and now we are trying to get some last
minute things fixed and worked out so that Tumaini can get water in the take
they have at their camp!
Second,
we have started numerous conversations with members in the camps about
micro-finance loans. We are having
conversations with individuals about their vision, what’s realistic, and how we
can support them in getting back up on their feet. This is a hard process and we are trying to figure it out as
we go. We’ve already approved one
and started a women going with a small duka (shop) where she sells fruits,
vegetables, soap, tea and other items.
It’s really taking off and she is making enough to expand the business
and make a decent wage.
Third, we
are still in conversation with Habitat for Humanity about getting homes built
for camp members. Things are
looking good and we are hopeful that at the beginning of next year the process
could be underway. There is a lot of paperwork and information that we are
trying to gather to make this happen, so we have been meeting with government
officials and other people to make this process move forward.
Fourth,
the charcoal business is still getting underway. We have built a small press and are experimenting with
different ingredients for the best briquette. We are having trouble getting cohesion, and are realizing we
are going to need to build something to shred the materials. If anyone has a way to build a
man-powered shredder, chipper, mulcher….let me know…seriously!
Fifth,
shortly after getting here we found out there was already a women’s sewing
school that was for IDP women.
Instead of trying to start another one, we have been helping out with
the one that’s already in place.
We are trying to see what partnering with them could look like and how
we can further the visions we each have.
Well….there
is a lot more going on of course…with all the , but that’s a quick highlight of the main
things we are seeing happen. Hope
this helps you understand what we’re working on and how you can be praying for
us. If you have any questions….let
me know!
