Maseno West
Mothers’ Union worker: Stella Okoyo
The diocese of Maseno West is based around the district of Siaya in the Western part of Kenya, often referred to as the Lake Region. It is inhabited by the Luo tribe.
In 2008 prayers were for all caught up in the post-election violence. The whole community has been disorganised in their lives and since the prime minister is from their tribe, much of the violence has been directed at them. Some members’ houses were burnt, especially those living near the borders of other tribes. It has been difficult, sometimes impossible, to trace those infected and affected by HIV/AIDS who were under the care of Mothers’ Union.
The local Mothers' Union has completed a housing project by building two semi detached houses for rental. This helps people who would not normally be able to afford housing as well as giving the Mothers’ Union a small income.
There are many projects at deanery and parish level, varying from poultry keeping, cattle and agriculture through to building small cooking kitchens (jikos) and fertilizer production with the by product of bio-gas.
Their aim is to make all members self reliant, to start a new housing project, to mobilize and assist people in need and reach people at all levels.
Around 300 new members were enrolled in St Peter’s Cathedral in April 2009.
Barbara Taylor and Jennifer White visited the diocese in March 2009 and are happy to talk to groups about their experiences.
