Mission Update: Developing communities in Western Kenya

Written By Esther Jones

Yala Widows & Orphans Support Project (YAWOSUP) is headed up by Edward Wata and operates in rural Western Kenya, focused on community development work to improve education, health, farming and housing for local residents, both young and old. 

Thankfully, matching our own experience, life in Kenya has been less affected by Covid-19 in recent months, but global issues continue to have a significant impact – specifically the war in Ukraine and the resulting increased costs of farm inputs (fertiliser) and basic food items (maize). In addition, Climate Change results in unpredictable rainfall, putting at risk their capacity to provide food for their families until the next harvest. 

YAWOSUP supports more than 300 widows, organised into several registered local groups. Help includes:

  • Renting a one-acre field to expand food production with the widows helping to manage the crop until harvest and so improve food security 

  • Rebuilding another house for a destitute widow 

  • Training in the use of microfinance to help the widows create small income-generating projects to meet the cost of other essential needs – including school fees for their children or grandchildren 

YAWOSUP continues to support orphans and OVCs (Other Vulnerable Children) with the:

  • Sponsorship of secondary school students to enable them to  continue their education 

  • Provision of quality education at Barbara Leighton Academy – a nursery and primary school with 120 pupils. Rehema Trust – a UK registered charity – continues to support the school and its development 

Give thanks for:

  • The reduced impact of Covid-19 on daily life in Kenya 

  • The expanded farming activity to improve local food security at a time of high costs and increased scarcity 

  • The continued expansion of Barbara Leighton Academy so that more young lives can be changed 

Pray for:

  • Increased global awareness of and action to tackle Climate Change to protect the most vulnerable  

  • Protection and good health for Edward, his family and all his co-workers 

  • The Presidential Elections in Kenya this month to run smoothly, fairly and free from violence 

For more information, contact Malcom Leighton on 01372 815082 or malcom.leighton@ntlworld.com

Esther Jones

SGSG Musical Director

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