In mid-April, we received visitors coming from Strathmore University in Nairobi at Nariokotome Mission. The Strathmore team, comprised of 2 staff members, alumni of the school and students – a total of 12 persons. The group spent 7 days engaging with the local youth of Nariokotome. Their mission was to mentor and educate the youth on various aspects of life such as academic, economic, social and spiritual matters.

Throughout their visit, the mentors covered topics such as careers and career choices, the dangers of drugs and substance abuse, youth and the church, and healthy relationships with the opposite sex. The interactions also included drama, English Language competition, song and dance. They also had a friendly football match where the local team showcased superior skills against the visitors! Additionally, this visit served as a valuable cultural exchange, allowing the Strathmore team to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of the Turkana people.

These topics were selected with the aim of helping the youth lead a purposeful life, inspiring them to dream big, and instilling confidence in their academic pursuits and future career choices, be it in colleges or technical institutions.

The Strathmore mentors are optimistic that their efforts will have a lasting impact on the lives of the youth, thereby encouraging them to lead fulfilling and responsible lives.

We had a chance to take our visitors to see interesting sites nearby. They visited the “Turkana or Nariokotome Boy” monument commemorating the site of the discovery of a nearly-complete fossil skeleton of a Homo Ergaster youth who lived some 1.5 to 1.6 million years ago. A short trip was made to Lake Turkana, the world’s largest permanent desert and alkaline lake.

Following the effective mentorship workshop, both the Nariokotome and Strathmore teams have come up with many ideas and plans for the future. We are considering the following concrete plans for the future:

1. Making this mentorship programme an annual encounter during the school holidays;
2. Working out an arrangement that would allow Strathmore students to undertake their service-based learning program in Nariokotome community projects; and
3. Making a support plan towards the various Nariokotome projects by students, staff and friends of the University.

By Brian Siara
Apprentice, MCSPA
Nariokotome Mission

Matthew 9:37 declares that “The harvest is abundant but the labourers are few”! The philosophy students of the Missionary Community of St. Paul the Apostle (MCSPA) studying at the Inter-Congregational Institute of Philosophy (ICI) at Balaka in Malawi went out on Good Shepherd Sunday to promote vocations in the Catholic Church, but in especially, vocations to the priesthood.

“Perhaps you are being called to a life of consecrated service as a priest or religious. Or maybe your vocation is to live out your faith in the midst of the world – as a parent, teacher, doctor or in some other profession. Whatever it may be, know that your vocation is a precious gift, and that God has a plan and purpose for your life.” These words of Rt. Rev. Montfort Stima, Bishop of Mangochi Diocese, who was the main celebrant at St. Louis Catholic Church, Balaka, left many youth present with the zeal for working towards a vocation journey.

Dear friends, may Vocation Sunday be a time of renewed commitment to living out our God-given callings. Let us go forth from this place with hearts on fire, ready to serve the Lord with gladness.

By Kevin Rakara,
Apprentice, MCSPA
Balaka, Malawi

The 2 intense days of the Youth Formation workshop at Todonyang Parish focused on combating drug and substance abuse among youth.

Under the guidance of a dynamic speaker, the workshops delved deep into various facets of substance misuse, fostering an environment of education and empowerment. Participants were engaged in discussions on recognising warning signs of drug abuse, dissecting the underlying causes, and exploring effective support mechanisms.

As the sessions unfolded, attendees acquired practical skills for intervening in crisis situations and accessing relevant resources. Through role-playing and scenario-based exercises, they honed their ability to respond effectively to substance-related emergencies and extend aid to those in need.

Beyond imparting knowledge and skills, the workshops served as a platform for forging connections and nurturing a sense of solidarity among participants. The collaborative setting encouraged individuals to unite, exchange ideas, and collaborate towards the shared objective of building healthier and more resilient communities.

As the workshop came to a close, the departing participants were emboldened and motivated to sustain their efforts in combating drug abuse within their communities. The workshop sparked meaningful dialogue and action, underscoring the pivotal role of education, empowerment, and collective action in addressing complex social challenges.

While the football match offered a moment of relaxation and camaraderie, it was the sessions that epitomised the essence of the Todonyang Parish Youth Formation Workshop, equipping attendees with the tools and determination to effect positive change in the fight against drug and substance abuse.

By Benedict Maina
Apprentice, MCSPA.
Todonyang Mission