Rain has become the byword in Kenya nowadays, not for its ubiquitous presence, but the lack of it. In many places in the country, crops are failing as drought creeps in. And with rivers drying up, thousands of people have to walk a few kilometres more to fetch water. It’s one big tragic reality that tells us how important rain is to the very survival of the people here.
But not all is lost. While everyone prays for rain, organizations and communities are mobilizing themselves to help those hit the hardest by the drought. FM stations are broadcasting appeals for assistance to all and sundry. Of note doing this is the Catholic Waumini radio station. Supermarkets, too, are making initiatives by soliciting goods and grocery supplies.
Our SVD parish in Dol Dol is one of those greatly affected by the drought. Having received no rain since November of last year, the place and its expanse are now a picture of dust, sand, and more dust. As the sun continues to parch the earth, people are getting clueless where to get the next meal.
As part of an immediate response, food items were donated to Dol Dol parish by Kayole parish, Nairobi (another SVD parish) two weeks ago. Organized by the parish priest Fr. Francisco Gonzalez of Kayole and its parishioners, and with the support of our provincial superior Fr. Eusebio Manangbao, food donations were shipped to Dol Dol and were distributed to the most needy. The estimated cost of the whole donation was KSh200,000 (US$2,500). Our Dol Dol confreres Frs. Marcin Karwot and James Mailady have expressed their utmost appreciation and gratitude to Kayole parish. Even in the past, the parishioners of Kayole have always manifested great generosity and willingness to help.
It is hoped that rain will come before Holy Week. However, thick clouds are nowhere in sight, and the government seems very slow to intervene. Should there be still no downpour this month and the next, and should the government fail to throw its weight behind a comprehensive program that will provide adequate assistance to the people, a disaster of phenomenal magnitude could be seen taking place, as it is already unfolding now.
Bound for Dol Dol
Fr. James unloading food items donated by Kayole parish
Gone under: Even the water underneath the river bed is fast receding
A distant view of Dol Dol parish compound
No sign of rain
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