Projects and Ministry
Northern Kenya Visit
A few weeks ago, I traveled up to Northern Kenya to visit our feeding programs in Lokichoggio and Kakuma Refugee Camp. While there I was also able to celebrate Christmas (though late) with the community. One highlight of this was that Sophie traveled with me! This region of Kenya is very remote, and as far north as you can go before getting to S. Sudan. Sophie has been asking to visit with me for years, so we finally made it happen. During our trip, she made a “5 Clue Challenge” video for her classmates, so I will share that below for your enjoyment. The feeding programs there are going well, and it was wonderful to be with our friends and to celebrate together. However, the children and families in this region face tremendous challenges. I am currently prayerfully considering ways that we can partner together to see a bigger impact in meeting the needs of this community.
Christmas Project
You may have seen this update already, but if not, please click on this link to see an update on Christmas Project 2018. It went very well this year, thanks to the generosity of people like you!
Bryan Nix Visit
In November, we were able to host the new People to People Ministries Director, Bryan Nix. It was great to get to know him, hear his vision for the ministry, and to allow him to visit some of the projects hear and learn more about our programs in Kenya.
Hosanna Dairy Project
The Dairy Project at Hosanna Children’s Home is running well. “Sheriff,” as she is lovingly called, is producing around 18 liters of milk per day, which is both sold and consumed. Around 10 liters per day is consumed, which is saving the home money. The remaining milk is sold and the profits sustain the project, as well generate a small amount of additional income. You may remember, Sheriff gave birth to a female calf in August, so we are awaiting the day (approx. 1.5 years from now) when she will be able to start producing milk as well.
The biggest expense of raising the cows is feeding, so we are currently looking for available land to grow fodder to supplement their diet.
Tana River Village Agriculture Projects
All three of the Irrigation and Farm projects in Tana River Delta are going well. The different projects (Peponi, Gardeni, and Odhole) have recently produced maize, watermelons, tomatoes, kales, and other vegetables. Because of the success of these projects and the empowerment they have given to communities, we are planning to do an additional project in Vumbwe village. Vumbwe is home to around 74 people and it is one of the villages that our partner, Bocha, works with regularly. The community longs to have access to a reliable water source so that they are able to farm and produce what they need to sustain themselves. The project will be led by Halima (pictured below), a determined woman that has an incredible faith and passion for her community. In addition to meeting critical needs and empowering communities, these projects are opening doors for Bocha to share Christ.
I will be traveling to this region in March to meet with the Vumbwe community, check on progress of other projects, and to conduct a Micro-Business training for a group of around 15 people.
Family Photos from the last few months:
In November, Sophie and Ethan were selected to be in the Rosslyn Academy Talent Show. Sophie and her friend sang a song and choreographed motions, while Ethan played the djembe.
Over Christmas Break, we spent a few days at a beautiful cabin in the Abedares with friends.
In December we also took a family camping trip at Hell’s Gate National Park for one night and hiked the gorge.
We had a great Advent and Christmas in Kenya, but we missed being with our families.
Prayer Requests
- That the next several months would be productive so that we will be prepared to be away on furlough from May-July.
- That we would love God and others as He loves us, and that we will be faithful in all the areas that we are being called.
- For continued direction and wisdom in our work.
- For our marriage to grow stronger every day.
- For Sophie and Ethan…that they will feel a meaningful connection to our ministry and that they both will grow to love and follow Jesus.
- For the Nation of Kenya, and the individuals, ministries, villages and churches that we have partnerships with.
- For our extended families as they live life without having us and the kids nearby.
- For good health, safety and protection.
We love and appreciate you all! Your support, prayers, and encouragement mean everything to us. Thank you for partnering with us.
THE DUNNINGS IN KENYA 