Saturday Night in Kenya

Still here in Kenya, watching and waiting…. We are getting a bit weary and impatient, but each day seems a bit more encouraging. I have seen more than one news report state that Nairobi has returned to an “uneasy calm”, and I think that is pretty accurate. While we have not witnessed or experienced any of the troubles, we are still alert to possibilities of trouble.

There are reports that Kibaki and Odinga (the opposing candidates in the election) have agreed to talk. The biggest news seems to be that Kibaki has hinted at the possibility of some sort of Unity Government; that seems to have made Odinga willing to talk without conditions set for such a meeting. This is big news. While there is no guarantee of the success or result of this meeting, it is indeed a beginning that is hopeful.

The Anglican Church of Kenya issued a statement calling for a “re-tally” of votes. They are joining many in the international community calling for the same. The allegations of improper conduct during the election continue, and have even come from within the Election Commission of Kenya.

There are many alarming stories about things going on in this country. It is so difficult to distinguish fact from fiction, but it seems that there may be much more going on in some parts of Kenya than is officially reported. We are not sure the numbers will ever be accurate, as just the personal accounts we hear about “friend of friends” seem numerous. These stories seem to come from the troubled areas where assessing the damage may be quite difficult at the moment. However, whether the numbers of dead and injured are one or one thousand, the number is too great.

Kenya has enjoyed relative peace since the end of Colonial rule by England. It has been the point of stability in East Africa for business and for international relations. Economically, this crisis has been quite damaging. The shilling and stock market lose value so quickly when the markets are open that they are quickly closed to stall further losses. We are holding on to the hope that an end will be near. Kenya needs to get to a time of healing and reconciliation. The wounds seem to be old and deep, and that means the remedies may be complex.

In checking in with Planting Faith’s project leaders, two of the areas (Mang’u and Murang’a) in which we work have been fairly calm this past week. One area, Ngarendare, is experiencing tension. The area there is comprised of people of three different tribes. Before the election, this tension did not seem present. So, we need to pray for healing in this area. We are anxious to move forward with our work in these projects.

Our school has decided to open a week later than scheduled. This is mainly due to the proposed scheduled rally next week, security issues with buses driving through Nairobi and the possibility of fuel shortages. They are “playing it safe”, and we are thankful to be part of that community that looks at the big picture. On a personal note, our dog had five puppies last night. She has 4 yellow and 1 black healthy Labrador puppies now. All are doing well!

Blessings,
Anne