A Day in Kibera

I arrived in Kibera, 2 days after leaving Sweet Union county. Things have changed in Kibera. There is evidence of progress, but it might not be evident to eyes that have never gazed it's streets and tenements.

There is still hope!

The children are a loving and curious bunch. They greeted me sweetly, a few of them clinging to my hands, then one boy began to rub the "muzungo" arm and seemed to count my freckles. I noticed one little boy, with several scabby knots on his little head- was he hurt by an unruly caretaker? or was it just a rambunctious boy that played too hard among the rocks? or was it some type of infestation? I hope to find out more details as we start the health assessments.

Here are some photos that I hope will paint a picture for you- a day in the life of Kibera's people.

Teacher Melvin, leads the children in Friday morning assembly.  The children begin the day outside and they sing and pray. Several children came forward to recite scripture. It was beautiful to see them worship and share the word hidden in their heart.

 Demolition has begun! This is a huge praise report because we can't begin construction without first removing the old mud and metal sheet buildings. And we could not begin that until the very last resident had been relocated. Monica and team had to endure some difficult times in order to relocate the people. It was their responsibility to do so- and some residents had tried to incite a rebellion to keep people from leaving. Even though we legally owned the land, we could not make progress until they decided to leave and go to a new residence. But, praise God- with prayer and waiting on Him to show how to respond - they now are relocated and it is BEGINNING!

New life was begun for this new mom Irene. she gave birth in the clinic across from Miracle Victory! This clinic provides 24 hour medical care. They don't have much in the way of facilities, but they serve their community the best way they can!

Their original delivery room was destroyed by fire and this is the new temporary one.

This is Lillian, she used to be the school cook. She now stays home to care for her child. She has also been kind enough to store books and other supplies in a trunk for the school. I was troubled to hear that many tables, chairs, a chalkboard and other supplies had been stolen from the center. That requires them to daily remove things- such a hassle- and it means they have less to work with than I realized. Why do people steal and sell things that are used by needy children? Our broken world needs Jesus!! Please pray for Kenya. It's complicated, lack of work, lack of sustenance, lack of so much...

Little friends sit together outside of Lillian's home.

Kibera corridor leading to a main "street"

Monica's home, my place to stay for the next month.

Monica and Alice in the courtyard :) 

The needs continue to be huge and overwhelming. But, we serve a mighty and faithful God! Time and again He has revealed His goodness to us and He does not change. We trust God to continue supplying the vast needs.

Pray with us!