We have been to greet the people of Turkana (many of whom are still pastoralists) in a dry arid region in northwest Kenya , and more specifically the Internally Displaced People (IDPs) who call Turkana their ancestral home. They are amazing, adaptable and perseverant, welcoming us warmly and politely. They are ingenious at making a house out of the simplest of materials … they have many basic needs: food, irrigation, hope, schools….. hunger is an on-going serious problem and much of the land is unforgiving. Thousands live in camps.
We have travelled on long bumpy hot roads , seen an outstanding brilliantly colored rainbow, watched dik-diks and wart hogs scoot across the road, and observed the shepherds with their goats or camels. We have seen evidence of elephants and heard how they trample the crops.
We have met many of our local partner representatives and are getting to know some of them more personally. There are many stories among the IDPs – hard to fathom stories… as well as stories of the goodness of churches and well wishers.
The newspapers are still full of news relating to the post election violence, Keyans are still working through what happened and the evidence is widespread ….. here in Turkana we do not have to look far.
We are eagerly anticipating the beginning of food distributions – the lorries will be challenged by the road conditions…. very challenged! Please pray for safe passage!
We are happy to be here. We are blessed! Blessed in Turkana country!
2 comments:
hey, i am really glad that you have made it there safely and that you are already expressing all the positive things about turkana! i haven't been, but i have heard how harsh it can be! i pray that your health will stay great and that you have a decent vehicle to drive in up there!! in my thoughts... alida
Looking forward to working out the details to join you in Dec!
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