News

by George Odhoji On July 21st, around 50 women from the community of Obunga gathered in the sanctuary of Ndoto Community Church. They took time to share their challenges and successes in providing for their families and how Ndoto can best empower and enhance their ability to create wealth and support themselves. It has always been my desire to see the community I live in change. When Ndoto: For Africa’s Future offered me the opportunities to finally return to high school in my twenties, go on to university, and ultimately work with them, I knew God was working something great.

By Moses Ondeche “Mama” Edith affectionately arranging the student photos on her bulletin board Edith is a 48-year-old lady, mother of 5, and the newest member of Team Ndoto. She and I were discussing obstacles she has faced. She explained how she used to have to work so hard despite being pregnant with her last child, bending and carrying things with no help and even opposition from others who saw her honesty as an obstacle to their selfish ambitions.

Since Ndoto hired its first Kenyans in Obunga, every staff member had the same primary objective: look after a group of students. Everyone then had one smaller responsibility: Susan did the bookkeeping, Mama Bon handled the money, and so on. This has been an inspiring way of organizing a team around a key vision. So there’s no time like the present for change! Joshua’s heart for Ndoto students is legendary and contagious Why change?

Several months ago, shortly after Ndoto’s longtime bookkeeper, Donna, retired, our Executive Director, Allison Schlack, met Gail Bell. She has worked for one of Ndoto’s supporters for many years and is approaching her retirement. When she heard that Ndoto would be looking for someone to take up the role for just a few hours a week, she was excited to offer her services! Her retirement is now right around the corner, and Ndoto is very excited to welcome Gail to the Ndoto team this month!

Tobias spraying the chicken coop for pests and disease Last year may have been the Chinese Year of the Rooster, but for Ndoto this is the Year of the Chicken. We finally know that, at least here, the chicken comes first, and then comes sustainable income and jobs. An Ndoto student who used to sell eggs helped us realize that over 90% of the eggs consumed in western Kenya come from Uganda.