Moi Day

On Friday, Kenya celebrated Moi Day (in honor of the second president of Kenya, Daniel Moi). We had the fun of hosting a party with the fourteen members of the Iftin group who had taken part in the International Literacy Day in September. It was a great time of getting to know some of the Iftin women better as we shared food and laughter together in our apartment.

Erica preparing Somali Chai for the party.

A Simple Recipe: A little water, lots of milk, too much sugar, loose tea, and Masala spices (black pepper, cardamon, cinnamon, cloves, ginger and nutmeg).

Erica and Emma with our friend Oromia, who was the only Oromo woman present at the party. We have the pleasure of teaching several Oromo refugees who have come to Eastleigh in exile from Ethiopia. The Oromo people are Cushitic cousins of the Somali tribe, and they are the largest people group living in Ethiopia (about 32% of the population). Oromia is a very bright student and we so proud of how well she is learning English.

Our friend Jess Buchanan is one of the fourth grade teachers at Rosslyn Academy. The Iftin ladies really enjoyed getting to know Jess and bringing her into the group dancing and sharing about life in Somalia.

Some of the ladies helping Emma learn the ways of the head wrap. There are several different styles of head coverings worn by Somali women. Most start out with a simple scarf.

And of course, what is a Somali party without henna?

Our friend Bisharo decorated several of the ladies including Erica and Emma (above) who had their feet beautifully decorated.

In Prayer:

Please remember our friend Kerry who left for home last night after the tragic death of her aunt.

Please continue to pray for the ministry in Eastleigh and Northeast province. Many of the Somali women continue to struggle on in their studies, but it is not easy.

Finally, we pray that you will all have a wonderful Canadian Thanksgiving this weekend! We will be traveling out to the Bannister's home with Chuck and Peggy French on Sunday to share a turkey with several members of our CBM team.