News From Africa. Vol. 61, No. 1

November 19, 2024 Rob Andzik News No comments

A Gift Of Hope: Handmade Bags From Matoso

This Christmas, we’re excited to offer a thank-you gift that truly represents the spirit of Lalmba’s work in Kenya and Ethiopia. With every donation over $100, you will receive a unique, reusable grocery bag, hand-sewn by talented seamstresses in Matoso using vibrant Kenyan fabrics. Each bag folds into a built-in zipper pouch, perfect for on-the-go convenience, and no two bags are alike!

To make this gift even more special, each bag is adorned with a small Ethiopian cross, brought from Ethiopia to Kenya and attached with care by the seamstresses. It’s a symbol of the cross-cultural unity and support that your donation brings to people in the rural communities Lalmba supports.

By donating this Christmas, you’re not just giving a gift of hope—you’re empowering the local artisans who crafted it and making a real impact. A contribution of $100-$200 can support a child for an entire year, cover medical expenses for 10 patients, or provide education that empowers a young adult toward a brighter future. Your generosity creates lasting change in the lives of those we serve. Thank you for joining us in bringing hope and opportunity to those who need it most.

The Courage And Strength Of A Mother’s Love

It’s been two years since I joined this amazing organization, and each visit to Ethiopia and Kenya deepens my admiration for the people we serve. This past September, I once again had the opportunity to visit Lalmba’s work in Ethiopia. One day in particular stands out. As I walked along the hilly roads around Lalmba’s Agaro Bushi clinic, mud caking my boots and slipping on what seemed like every rock, I couldn’t help but think about a woman in labor I met earlier that week and her newborn son named Surafel. Just a few hours earlier, Surafel’s mother had made the same journey up the steep, rain-soaked trails, stopping often to breathe through contractions, steadying herself as the clay and mud slipped between her bare toes. For two hours she walked that path. Each step, each breath, was a testament to her courage, driven by the hope that her baby would be born safely under the care of Lalmba’s clinic staff.

She arrived, somehow without any mud on her dress, supported by her dear friend and mother, just in time for Surafel’s birth. Watching our team help her settle into the birthing room, I felt a surge of gratitude and admiration—not just for our skilled staff, but for the mothers of Agaro Bushi who make this journey through the mud and rain, driven by hope.

Moments like these are at the heart of our work in rural communities like Agaro Bushi. In 2023 alone, Lalmba’s staff in Ethiopia and Kenya delivered 228 babies — each birth a testament to the strength of these mothers and the compassionate care of our staff. Surafel’s arrival was a quiet triumph, a reminder of the resilience that thrives in these hills.

When I saw Alazar, Lalmba’s Ethiopia Medical Director, gently swaddle little Surafel in warm clothes, I felt overwhelmed by the beauty and challenges of this place. I saw what love looks like: it’s the deep red of a mother’s pounding heart as she walks through the mud, enduring labor pains, to reach Lalmba’s small clinic on a remote hillside in Ethiopia. It’s the kindness Lalmba’s staff showed her as she labored and brought an incredible new life into the world. Lalmba’s clinic may be a small beacon of hope in the vast Ethiopian highlands, but it’s a place where women like Surafel’s mother find refuge, and where, together, we witness these small miracles of new life and unbreakable spirit.

An Added Gift As A Member Of Lalmba’s Family

This year, along with the beautiful handmade bag, we’re including a special bracelet as a thank-you. Made from silicone in red and green—the common colors of the Kenyan and Ethiopian flags—one side reads “Lalmba” and the other, “A place and a people of hope.” Originally designed and donated as a gift for our staff, this bracelet has become a symbol of the Lalmba family. We handed them out with the help of Jenipher Atieno, our Kenya Country Director, and Atinafu Yohanis, our Ethiopia Country Director to Lalmba’s staff. Our Medical Director, Alazar, even wore his as he gently cared for newborn Surafel.

We hope this bracelet brings you a sense of unity with Lalmba’s family and the communities we serve.

Serving as a Volunteer in Agaro Bushi

Hello, Lalmba friends and family! My name is Tamara, or Tam, and I’m serving as a Public Health Educator at Lalmba’s Agaro Bushi Medical Clinic in Ethiopia for a year. My journey and love for Africa began as a Peace Corps volunteer in Kenya. Since then, I’ve worked in Ethiopia teaching English, and in public health with at-risk populations in Chicago and along Lake Victoria, tackling the HIV/AIDS crisis. I first worked with Lalmba in Kenya, and now I’m thrilled to be back, serving in Ethiopia.

Here in Agaro Bushi, I work with our clinic staff to address rising malaria cases and reduce malnutrition in the community. I love the work here, as there’s always that feeling of wanting to do everything you can for the people and to support the clinic’s amazing staff. Even after a tough day, I feel a deep sense of satisfaction and pride as I witness what people are capable of — not only because of the rural setting and the distances our patients travel to reach us, but because of the time and energy our staff spends making the community healthier.

On weekends, when the road is passable, I visit the Children’s Home in Chiri, where the kids’ energy and laughter are infectious — especially when they run to greet visitors! I feel honored and grateful for having the chance to make my small contribution to this program, for growing and learning together with local staff over the next year and for being part of the Lalmba family.

We Need Your Support!

At Lalmba, we’re driven to make every dollar count, empowering communities and bringing hope to some of the most underserved areas of Kenya and Ethiopia. Thanks to supporters like you, in 2023 alone, we provided care to over 57,000 patients, supported more than 1,300 children, welcomed nearly 19,900 visits to our library, and delivered 228 babies. That is nearly 80,000 times a life was touched, through medical care, supporting at-risk children, or empowering them to a better life, for an average of only $10.

But to keep these vital programs going — and to realize new projects like our education center — we need your help to strengthen our operational budget. Lalmba relies on the generosity of supporters like you to sustain our vital programs. Recently we have seen a drop in funding, forcing us to draw from our savings to continue our work. These reserves won’t last forever! Will you join us in continuing this mission? Please consider helping us impact 10 more lives by increasing your donation by $100 or more.

Lalmba’s leadership teams from Kenya, Ethiopia, as well as the US and Spain, gathered during the Leadership Summit in Nairobi, holding up the bags the seamstresses made. A group truly focused on supporting the poor in Kenya and Ethiopia. From left to right: Rob, Tam, Alazar, Joan, Wilkester, Jeremiah, Marcy, Atinafu, Aselefich, Tsion, Jenipher, Minalush, Linder, and Jennifer. This summit marked the first time all senior leaders came together. Our leadership team is more united and prepared to continue delivering Lalmba’s mission and vision and overcome any challenges on the way.

News From Africa, Vol 60., No. 7

September 9, 2024 Rob Andzik News

Children Are The Future

In the quiet lakeside village of Matoso, life moves at a different pace, dictated by the lake, the weather, and seasonal rains. On Wednesdays, a small market springs to life, and on weekends, everyone gathers at church. Every day has its struggles, and every small victory is a celebration. These challenges are felt throughout the community, but young adults are particularly impacted. Among the many stories of resilience, Maricus’s stands out, embodying the spirit of hope and determination that defines this community.

At just 19, Maricus has faced more challenges than many encounter in a lifetime. Her father passed away when she was only ten. Her mother, a cook, worked tirelessly to provide for her seven children. As the third oldest, Maricus dreamed of becoming a journalist. She studied hard and completed high school, but those dreams were halted by the harsh realities of living in this rural community. There are few opportunities, and recently, illness has confined her mother to bed, leaving Maricus to shoulder the household responsibilities. “I am a good writer, and I want to tell stories,” Maricus explained. “But, there is no place to work, and I just stay home taking care of my family.”

Despite the setbacks, Maricus’s spirit remains unbroken. She spends her days caring for her siblings and guarding herself against the many pitfalls that claim the lives of young adults, especially young women in her community. Early marriage, teenage pregnancy, and the lure of quick money through dangerous means are constant threats. “I stay home to avoid falling into bad groups,” she explains. “I’ve seen what happens. I don’t want that for me.”

The community believes that secondary school is the pathway to success. However, after graduation, employment opportunities are scarce. Jobs are typically only available through the government or larger organizations in distant cities. Job postings are listed on a board in Migori, an hour and a half drive away, broadcast on the radio, or published in newspapers. Lalmba’s current small library is one of the few places where locals can access these resources. Unfortunately, it’s common for hundreds to apply for a job that is already filled by family, friends, and bribes. Some find “hustles” like fishing or driving a piki piki (motorcycle taxi), but many give up, join bad groups, or, in the case of young women, sell themselves for money.

Yet, opportunities are no longer restricted by geography. For an aspiring journalist like Maricus, the real opportunities can be found online. Unfortunately, even that is seemingly inaccessible in rural areas like Matoso. We believe that the new Matoso Education and Empowerment Center will part of the solution. Our hope is that this center will ignite change, fostering a community where young people can thrive and contribute positively toward a self-sufficient future for their families and their community.

The Matoso Education and Empowerment Center

From its start in 1963, Lalmba has believed that education is a key part of breaking the cycle of poverty. Over that time, the essence of education throughout the world has evolved from basic literacy to include an understanding of the modern, digital world. The rural communities we serve are on the fringes of this technological revolution and risk being left behind. Without digital skills, opportunities are scarce, even for the educated. However, with computer and internet knowledge, new income avenues emerge, offering hope for a better future, even in remote areas.

In 2023, our small, outdated library at Lalmba’s Matoso Clinic had nearly 20,000 visits. People came to learn, pulling dusty books off the shelves and reading the newspaper for local, national, and world news. In the cramped, single-room space, children gathered around the few working laptops to learn basic computer kills. There is a strong thirst for knowledge, but our small library barely scratched the surface.

Our new Matoso Education and Empowerment Center addresses this need. It’s not just a building; it’s a cornerstone of Lalmba’s vision for a self-sufficient, empowered community. Here, children and adults will learn essential skills to thrive in a digital world. The center will offer programs tailored to the unique needs of rural communities, from digital literacy and internet readiness to public health and business skills, opening new opportunities for those struggling like Maricus.

We cannot do this alone. For the Matoso Education and Empowerment Center to become a true community resource, we need support. Several organizations are helping us: The Rotary Club of Southeast Denver has contributed furniture, and Compassion International has donated laptops. We are forming a partnership with the gold Youth Development Agency (goldyouth.org) providing peer-to-peer leadership training and future business opportunities for youth in remote African communities. Yet, we still need more funding to complete construction, buy books, and ensure a successful launch. With your support, this center can transform lives, fostering a community where everyone has the chance to succeed and contribute to a brighter future for themselves and their community.

Success Through Microloans

We want to share with you a great story of empowerment. As a single mother, Lilian Akinyi faced the daunting task of pro- viding for her family after being left with nothing when her husband passed away. Fortu- nately, she and her children were enrolled in Lalmba’s RCAR program, which became the foundation of their journey toward a brighter future.

Lilian needed a source of income to feed her family so she joined one of Lalmba’s small business classes. Armed with new knowledge and strong determination, she applied for her first Lalmba microloan to cover school fees while she started selling small fish at the local market. With this humble start, she was able to make ends meet and Lilian inside her small shop ensure her children went to school.

In 2019, Lilian took out a second loan and built a small roadside shop. Strategically located at the entrance of Matoso, her shop has become a go-to place for locals and visitors alike. The shop offers a variety of products, from fresh produce and school supplies to clothing and shoes. She works hard to manage her inventory. Perishable goods and sourcing inventory from distant cities are always a challenge. But, in the end, she is able to provide for her family and ensure her children are fed and going to school.

Lalmba’s microloan program has helped hundreds of single mothers, like Lilian, support their families by starting small businesses. These loans provide the initial funds needed to buy inventory and cover other startup costs. However, the success of their business is still closely tied to the overall local economy. In Matoso, where the economy heavily depends on fishing, the lake is overfished and floods have damaged the shoreline. The town sees fewer visitors, and small shops like Lillian’s are struggling.

Lalmba’s focus is on serving the poor, but our projects in both Kenya and Ethiopia have beneficial side effects that go far beyond the work we do directly. In Agaro Bushi, the local market day is now a bustling hub where people walk for hours to buy and sell goods and exchange information. We envision the new Matoso Education and Empowerment Center having a similar positive impact. Small shop owners, like Lilian, will benefit from more consistent traffic. People will come to Matoso not only for medical care but also for knowledge. Together, we are building a new economic engine and fostering a more self-sufficient community.

News From Africa. Vol. 60, No. 6

June 3, 2024 Rob Andzik News

Public Health Crisis

Photos by Lalmba’s Ethiopian Staff

We want to bring you an update on a little girl named Mekdes. You might remember hearing about Mekdes in a previous newsletter, a precious baby who came to us after her mother sadly passed away from malaria and her father had no means of taking care of her. Working with the local government officials, Lalmba staff took her into the Chiri Children’s Home in Ethiopia and she became part of Lalmba’s family.

Now at just eight months old, Mekdes finds herself battling another life threatening hurdle — measles, a highly contagious disease that is especially dangerous for young children. Our staff noticed Mekdes had developed a bad fever and quickly took her to the nearest hospital as her condition worsened. Thanks to the swift actions of our dedicated team at Lalmba’s Chiri Children’s Home, she received much needed oxygen and after about a week of hospitalization she is starting to improve.

For us, this very personal story of Mekdes highlights both the severe outbreak of measles we are dealing with Ethiopia and a larger concern that affects children globally. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over half of the world’s countries are at high risk of measles outbreaks due to vaccination gaps left during the COVID-19 pandemic. In remote communities like Agaro Bushi, a disease like measles that primarily affects children under five, can be devastating, particularly for the poor people in these regions.

As Mekdes battles this preventable disease, her story serves as a poignant call to action for the global community. It is a reminder of the importance of healthcare access and the critical need for robust vaccination programs. Lalmba is on the front lines of this battle, ensuring that children like Mekdes receive not only the medical care they require but also the preventive measures that can protect them from such diseases.

Your continuous support enables us to provide these lifesaving services. It ensures that our clinic has the resources to treat and care for the most vulnerable children. Each donation helps us extend our reach further, utilizing Health Extension Workers to vaccinate more children thus preventing the spread of preventable diseases like measles.

Thank you for standing with us and with children like Mekdes. Together, we are not just saving lives but also building a healthier future for the children who depend on us.

Love has always been at the heart of Lalmba

We are thrilled to highlight a recent inspiring chapter in the journey of Lalmba’s founders, Hugh and Marty Downey. Their commitment, spanning decades of selfless service, recently brought them back to Kenya, where they connected with our staff and the communities we serve. This trip was more than a return; it was a reaffirmation of the lasting bonds they have built with the people of Kenya. During their visit, Hugh addressed our dedicated staff, sharing words of encouragement and gratitude that reinforced the deep connection between Lalmba’s mission and its people. We invite you to watch this special moment captured in a video now available on our YouTube channel.

Hugh and Marty Downey were also recently featured in an article in the Denver Catholic. This piece offers an in-depth look at their lifelong dedication and the profound impact of their work with Lalmba. You can find the article online by visiting Lalmba’s website under About Lalmba / Our History, or simply using the link to the right. This enriching read provides further insights into their mission and the powerful legacy they continue to build with each passing year.

The story of Hugh and Marty inspires us all to consider how we might contribute to Lalmba’s ongoing mission. Whether you are new to our community or have been with us through various chapters of our journey, there is always room to make a difference. By volunteering, sharing our stories, or donating, you help sustain the cycle of love and service that defines Lalmba.

Thank you for your continued support and for being a part of this extraordinary family. Together, we are not just changing lives; we are transforming futures.

Celebrating our heros

At Lalmba, we are blessed with a community of volunteers that spans continents and we want to take a moment to thank you all. From expatriates who commit a year or more to live and work alongside our staff, to local community members who step up to help their neighbors, our volunteers are the heart of Lalmba.

Many of our expatriate volunteers come to us from the US, bringing diverse skills and a shared passion for service. They immerse themselves in local cultures, often learning new languages and adapting to different ways of life. Their commitment goes beyond the daily tasks; they build lasting relationships that bridge continents and cultures.

Equally important are our local volunteers in Kenya and Ethiopia, who offer what little they have to support our efforts. These dedicated individuals know their communities best. They are our guides, our translators, and our partners in every sense. They teach us, even as they learn new skills that enhance their own capabilities and the well-being of their communities.

To our volunteers, past and present, we extend our deepest gratitude. You are the backbone of Lalmba, the spirit behind our mission, and the hope for our future. Together, we continue to change lives, one act of kindness at a time.

Your support helps sustain this vibrant volunteer culture. As we move forward, we invite more of you to join us, whether by volunteering, spreading the word, or contributing financially. Every action you take makes a difference.

We want to extend a special
Thank You
to Martin Alkire for his year of volunteer service in Ethiopia.

You have been a great mentor and friend to all of us!

Become A Lalmba Vision Partner

Join us on June 22nd at 2:00 PM Mountain Time to learn more about our three pillars!

We are excited to introduce a special opportunity for you to deepen your impact with us: the Lalmba Vision Partner program. This new initiative invites you to join a community of supporters dedicated to advancing our mission through strategic, long-term commitments. As a Lalmba Vision Partner, your ongoing support will directly enhance our capacity to deliver meaningful change to those who need it most.

Focus Your Impact

Our efforts are structured around three crucial program pillars: Children, Medical, and Empowerment. Each pillar is designed to address specific needs within the communities we serve:

At-Risk Children: Supporting the health, education, and well-being of children, ensuring they have the opportunities they need to thrive.

Medical Care: Providing essential medical care and health education to prevent disease and improve quality of life.

Empowerment: Offering training and support programs that empower individuals and communities to sustainably improve their own circumstances.

How to Participate

As a Vision Partner, you have the flexibility to choose how your support is used. You can prioritize your support toward a specific pillar— At-Risk Children, Medical Care, or Empowerment—and receive focused stories, activity updates, and impact data related to your chosen pillar. Alternatively, you can contribute to our general fund to support all pillars of our mission and receive comprehensive updates on our latest endeavors.

To join the Lalmba Vision Partner program or to learn more, simply visit www.lalmba.org/vision-partner. Together, we can achieve our vision for a brighter future, bringing tangible hope and help to those who rely on us. Thank you for considering this opportunity to stand with us as a Lalmba Vision Partner.

News From Africa. Vol. 60, No. 5

March 19, 2024 Rob Andzik News

New Beginnings For A Malnourished Child

By Jennifer Wenningkamp

In Matoso, Kenya, and Agaro Bushi, Ethiopia, amidst the verdant fields of these rural communities, lies a silent crisis that touches the most vulnerable: our children. Malnutrition, a dire consequence of food scarcity, inadequate storage, and economic instability, threatens the future of countless young lives. At Lalmba, we witness daily the struggles and resilience of families fighting against the grip of hunger.

The story of a little bright-eyed young boy from a remote village near Matoso, brings this crisis to life. His journey to Lalmba began with his grandmother’s desperate walk to our clinic, seeking help for her grandson’s alarming weight loss and lethargy, classic signs of severe malnutrition. Like many in the surrounding areas, his family depended on small-scale farming and fishing, which, in recent years, has become increasingly unreliable due to shifting weather patterns and over-fishing in the lake.

Upon their arrival, his hungry grandmother was greeted with warmth and immediate action. Our staff quickly identified this young boy as severely malnourished, with not long to live unless immediate action was taken. They were both enrolled in our Chakula Bora program and received life-saving nutritional support and medical care.

The recovery of malnourished children like this little boy is both rapid and remarkable. Within weeks, children who once faced severe health risks due to malnutrition begin to show signs of improvement. Their energy returns, their smiles brighten, and they start to engage with the world around them in new ways. This swift transformation underscores the impact of Lalmba’s efforts and the resilience of the human spirit.

But our commitment extends beyond helping a child recover. Through education on locally fortified foods and sustainable practices, we empower families to sustain their health gains. This holistic approach ensures that children not onlyrecover but also thrive, embarking on a new beginning filled with possibilities.

Your support is crucial in this life-saving
mission. Together, we can continue to provide hope and healing to children and families at the end of the road. Join us in transforming lives and nurturing futures, one child at a time.

Navigating the Challenges of Food Insecurity

As we continue Lalmba’s mission to support the most vulnerable, recent trends have highlighted an alarming rise in malnutrition cases within the communities we serve in Kenya and Ethiopia. This increase prompts us to delve deeper into the underlying causes, seeking not only to provide immediate aid but also to address the root issues contributing to food scarcity.

In the regions surrounding Agaro Bushi, Ethiopia, and Matoso, Kenya, several factors exacerbate the challenge of securing sufficient, nutritious food. A significant portion of these communities relies on subsistence farming, dependent on natural rainfall and traditional storage methods. However, the absence of electricity complicates food preservation, leaving families vulnerable to crop failures and food shortages.

Moreover, both countries face the double burden of relying on imported food staples, such as cooking oil and fatty foods, while grappling with national inflation and the high cost of fuel. These economic pressures make it increasingly difficult for families to afford the essentials, pushing more households into food insecurity.

The situation is further complicated by changing weather patterns, with prolonged droughts and unpredictable rainy seasons disrupting traditional agricultural practices. Livestock, a critical source of nutrition and income for many families, suffer from the lack of water and grazing land, leading to decreased food availability and higher prices for meat and milk.

As we navigate these challenges, Lalmba’s approach focuses on comprehensive support for affected families. From initial medical treatment and nutritional support to education on sustainable food practices, our goal is to empower communities to overcome these obstacles. By understanding the complex web of factors contributing to malnutrition, we can tailor our interventions to meet the immediate and long-term needs of those we serve.

Dehydration is a problem with malnourished children and in severe malnutrition, special formulas and rehydration solution are needed. Resomal, a oral rehydration solution, and the F-100 formula are not available through MEDS (Mission for Essential Drugs and Supplies). Dehydration would be a reason for referral to a nearby hospital. They are also more prone to infection so a severe presentation of an illness such as Malaria could be another reason for referral. All other cases are treated as outpatient care by our clincal staff.

Dr. Manasa Irwin
Lalmba International Medical Director (Kenya)

News From Africa. Vol. 60, No. 4

January 24, 2024 Rob Andzik News

Out of the Ethiopian Rain Forest

By Jennifer Wenningkamp

Lalmba conducts outreach clinics far into the Ethiopian rainforest. These journeys are not just a trek across rugged terrain, but a venture into the heart of human resilience and emphasize the reason Lalmba is needed in these remote communities. Recently one of our volunteers, Maria, experienced one such tragic situation.

Our small-but-mighty outreach team, consisting of an expatriate nurse and three Ethiopian staff, had come across a family with a feverish toddler. Maria quickly assessed that this was a serious situation and found herself surprised at her stern tone of voice when she insisted that the tiny child be brought to our clinic – straight away. The mother’s eyes darted between Maria and Aynalem, our RCAR social worker, as they explained the risks of untreated malaria. She wiped at the small band of sweat beads forming on the child’s tiny forehead. The fever was too high. They explained that the symptoms indicated malaria. Her child had to get a malaria test from our lab and start receiving treatment quickly. She nodded and agreed to bring her sick child to the clinic, but only after her husband returned from working in a village two days away.

It was difficult to leave the feverish child with her mom and siblings, but our outreach team had many families to visit. For families with children under the school age, a home visit is the only way to see them. Our volunteer, RCAR social worker, public health nurse, and guard spent hours that day navigating through the muddy trails and steep terrains. The homes they visited were smoky and poorly lit, with thatched roofs and mosquito-infested shadows. But it’s in these homes where the true spirit of community shone. Nominated by caring neighbors for Lalmba’s RCAR assistance, each family welcomed our team with open arms. Then, following a checklist, our staff asked questions and discussed how they are all doing.

Our team encouraged each family they visited to prevent sickness by using clean water, practicing hygiene, and eating nutritious meals daily. They reminded them that Lalmba’s clinic is within walking distance and advised them to come to our clinic for free treatment any time they are sick. Sadly this message is sometimes met with skepticism of modern medicine and disbelief that it is truly free.

That afternoon, as our outreach team began the long trek out of the lush green rainforest back to the village of Agaro Bushi, Maria’s thoughts were with that toddler with malaria. She hoped they would come soon, but sadly, later that week, the whole team shared in the deep sorrow of the mother who finally arrived at the clinic, too late for her feverish child to recover.

As I later spoke with Maria, her voice quivered, reflecting on the what-ifs. Malaria cases are on the rise in this region of Ethiopia and sadly toddler “Jane Doe” died of this treatable disease. But our resolve is unwavering. At Agaro Bushi Medium Clinic, and working with our European partner SAED, we see daily successes and we are making strides in educating the community through our public health initiatives. We are here, at “the end of the road” walking alongside each family, sharing in their struggles and triumphs.

We won’t lose hope, there are many patients treated at Agaro Bushi Medium Clinic, and thousands who are learning from our public health initiatives. We will continue visiting, teaching, listening, and engaging with the community we serve. Your support is integral to our journey. Together, we can continue to bring hope and change. Thank you for partnering with us and enabling us to continue this lifesaving and life-changing work.

As a mother of children who have survived malaria – I am forever grateful to the numerous medical staff, nurses and technicians who worked tirelessly to save their lives. I’m also incredibly grateful for malaria treatment and research that is reducing the number of lives lost to this preventable and treatable disease. – Jennifer Wenningkamp

Reflections on 2023

By Rob Andzik – Chairman of the Board

As we reflect on the past year, it’s not just the milestones we’ve reached that inspire us, but the leadership and adaptability that have marked 2023 as a year of exceptional transformation for Lalmba. Yet in all that, we are still the same small organization working at the “end of the road” and empowering the destitute and the poor to a better life.

In Kenya, our largest project, we celebrated a seamless transition in leadership with Jenipher Atieno taking the helm as the new Country Director, succeeding Marico, who retired a year ago after a commendable 36 years of service. This change sparked a series of well-deserved promotions within our Kenyan staff, enhancing our organizational structure and invigorating our mission with fresh perspectives. Under Jenipher Atieno’s capable leadership, the team has navigated a year of both challenges and triumphs, from dealing with floods and inflation to hosting the 2023 Tembea na Mimi team. Their resilience and passion for the work shone brightly as we celebrated Lalmba’s 60th anniversary with speeches from community members, RCAR beneficiaries, and retirees. It was truly, a testament to the enduring impact of Lalmba’s work in Kenya.

Lalmba Ethiopia also saw a year marked by both challenges and victories. Atinafu Gebreyohanis, our Ethiopia Country Director, has steered the organization through these times with steadfast determination. Last year, we not only faced the usual hurdles of remote work but also celebrated significant advancements. We had to respond quickly and rebuild our boy’s dormitory in Chiri, build new staff housing in Agaro Bushi, which was only possible through the incredible effort of community collaboration, expanded our RCAR program to reach Agaro Bushi, rebooted our microloan initiatives in Chiri, and updated numerous processes and systems for better efficacy.

Back in the US, Jennifer Wenningkamp has done a great job taking on the roll of leading this amazing organization. Working closely with Joan Marques, our VP of Operations from Spain, their combined leadership has infused Lalmba with a new energy, driving forward enhanced communication strategies, increased financial transparency, and a sharpened focus on strategic planning. They have brought in new passionate volunteers, working in both the US and in Africa. And they have increased the involvement of our Board of Directors, a group I am personally very thankful for.

Now as we stand on the cusp of another year with new challenges and opportunities. We carry with us our faith, the lessons of resilience, the spirit of compassion, and the heart of community that have always been Lalmba’s hallmark. These stories of leadership and progress are not just our stories—they are yours, too. Your support fuels our journey, and together, we forge a path of hope and transformation for the communities we serve.

In this newsletter we have included an insert showing you the impact Lalmba has had over the last year. We encourage you to take a moment and see what your support has enabled our incredible staff in Kenya and Ethiopia to achieve as they work to improve their own communities.

Thank you for standing with us through every stride and for being an integral part of Lalmba’s enduring legacy.

Tembea Na Mimi 2025

Its not too early to start planning for another amazing Tembea Na Mimi in July/August of 2025. Maybe you or someone you know has thought about joining one of these incredible journeys. In doing so you will not only be supporting Lalmba’s great work, but you will be able to witness it first hand, meet our staff, and walk hand in hand with the people and children Lalmba serves.

Please let us know if you would like to be kept informed as we start planning our next walk by sending a quick email to tnm@lalmba.org. We’re not looking for anyone to commit to the walk now. We just want to start building up our list of potential walkers now so everyone can start planning.

LALMBA NEWS, VOLUME 60, NO. 3

November 24, 2023 Rob Andzik News

This holiday season, we are honoring a symbol of enduring strength and hope: the east African shepherd. Much like the shepherds of yore, the individuals we serve hold stories of resilience and tenacity. Our Christmas emblem, a beautiful hand-carved wooden mask, about the size of a smiling infant’s face, represents the spirit of an East African shepherd whose life and struggles are, in some ways, similar to a shepherd’s life over 2,000 years ago.

We have all imagined that dark starry night – when silence was broken by the cry of a wee babe. Humble shepherds were amazed to receive a message of HOPE from hosts of God’s mighty angels announcing the birth of the promised Messiah, the embodiment of living hope.

That moment rings across time, traditions, and cultures. During this holiday season, that same message of hope and joy reverberates through the hills and valleys of Kenya and Ethiopia. It’s in the smile of a child receiving education, in the relief of a farmer cured of illness, and in the bright faces of families empowered and lifted to a better future.

Your support weaves you into this tapestry of giving and receiving, of past and present. With this mask, we celebrate the connection between your giving spirit and the hope it brings to so many. Thank you for your heartfelt generosity. May your Christmas be filled with the joy and HOPE you help spread.

Give HOPE and get your mask today!

We only have 500 of these beautiful masks!

Send your Christmas donation early to be one of the first recipients of these limited hand-made masks!

We will ship the first masks on December 8th so they arrive in time for Christmas.

A Shepherd’s Journey to Life-Saving Treatment

By Jennifer Wenningkamp & Rob Andzik

Recently Jeremiah, Jenipher and Wilkesta, Lalmba Kenya staff members, shared several stories of some of the young patients who visited the clinic. We wish we could share them all. Instead, keeping true to the stories they shared, we have creatively combined the stories to provide a look through the eyes of the children they talked about. Brave children who turned to Lalmba for help.

The sheep woke me up this morning. They’re louder than the cows but I like their curly hair and funny tails. They want their breakfast. They are always hungry. So am I.

We had to get up earlier today to tend to our neighbor’s animals as well. Our mom was feeling labor pains last night and the neighbor took her to the clinic on the back of his bicycle. Dad would have taken her but dad isn’t with us anymore. I hope she is ok.

I woke my sister, got dressed and we went outside. It was still dark and my sister doesn’t like the dark. I don’t either, but we pretended we’re strong and courageous like grown-ups. We left our farm and started to head to the pastures, encouraging the cows with a sturdy “eheheh yah”. The animals are stubborn and never go where we want them to. They kick up a lot of dust too. It was hard, and we had to cover our faces to keep the dust from burning our throats and nostrils.

As we walked, my sister started choking and coughing. It wasn’t like the little coughs you get from the dust. This one sounded deep and frightened me. I remembered the people from the clinic talking about more serious coughs. She was making the same sounds that sapped our dad’s strength at the end. I was worried.

It was our job to look after the animals and make sure they eat and drink, especially now with the new baby coming. Since dad isn’t here anymore, mom says we have to be responsible. But my sister’s cough was really bad and she was struggling to breath. It got me thinking, ‘What would mom do?’ I knew we needed to get help. So I decided we had to go to the nearby clinic.

But what do we do with the animals? Then I saw my friend watching her sheep nearby. I left my sister sitting and coughing by a big rock on the side of the road and ran to my friend. I begged her to watch our animals so I could get my sister to the clinic. At first she didn’t want to help, but when she heard that raspy cough, like the one that took her little sister away last year, she got scared too.

I tried to help my sister when she struggled and fell down. I thought I wasn’t big enough to carry her on my shoulders, like my dad did when she was smaller. But I was strong and carried her the last part, down that dirt path by the lake to the clinic. It was far and it seemed like forever but we made it. The clinic has always been such a nice place, but it can be confusing too. I was really nervous. Did I make the right choice leaving the animals?

A nurse in a white coat saw us and took us inside. She looked worried as she listened to my sister’s cough. She was a nice lady and told me we did the right thing by coming to the clinic. She said this was tuberculosis and that it could spread throughout the house. She asked me if anyone else in our family had a bad cough? When I drew in a deep sigh and held back tears, she patted my shoulders and let me explain more about my dad and my mom, and the baby on the way.

She comforted me like mom does and explained that my sister has a sickness but it will go away after she finishes taking medicine. I had a hard time believing her. I told her my dad took medicine and he didn’t get better. His cough didn’t go away. She asked me a few more questions and then explained that the sickness my dad had was really bad. People with that sickness need to be treated with special life-saving medicine and they have to take it for the rest of their lives. It wasn’t the cough alone that took his last breath, but the hidden sickness in his blood.

My sister is doing a little better but I’m still worried. Will mom or the new baby need life-saving medicine for the rest of their lives too?

The remote corner of Kenya where Lalmba works has long been a hot spot for HIV. At first those who contracted the disease were shunned and often hid the fact that they had it to avoid the stigma. But with new medicines came a new chance at life.

In Matoso and Ochuna, nearly 800 Kenyans living with HIV contribute to their communities and families and boast seamlessly productive lives. Seen by a Lalmba clinician every 2-3 months and routinely taking HIV medications, these men, women, and children attend school, fish in Lake Victoria, and grow maize, taro, and barley.

However, Congress’s failure to renew PEPFAR (President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief) in October may compromise their health and stability. Without this funding, HIV medication and clinical support will dwindle, and affected communities may see a return of epidemic proportions similar to that in 2000-2002.

Finally, during this Christmas Season we want to recognize Lalmba’s Founders, Hugh and Marty Downey for the amazing organization they created 60 years ago, and Jeff and Hillary James for carrying the torch for 9 amazing years. Without their vision and leadership we would not be where we are today.

Give HOPE Today!

Interested in Volunteering?

Email us at volunteer@lalmba.org
or fill out our online form

Volunteer

60th Anniversary Special Edition

October 1, 2023 Rob Andzik News, Tembea Na Mimi

On September 21, 1963, Hugh Downey stepped out of his US Army post in Eritrea and began a journey serving the people in Africa. For 60 years Lalmba has continued helping the poor and destitute, those forgotten at the “the end of the road”, achieve a better life.
Celebrations for the 60th anniversary have been held in Kenya and Ethiopia. This month we are celebrating in the US. Yet we are constantly reminded there is still suffering and poverty. Lalmba’s journey continues.

Meet Mekdes

^{By Joan Marques}

Lalmba’s 60th celebration at the Chiri Children’s home had just ended with joyful screams of children scrambling after candy falling from a piñata. As the guests were leaving, Aselefich, our RCAR Program Director, received word from the local department of social services that a newborn baby girl had been brought to the nearby government health center. Her mother had tragically died from malaria less than a week after giving birth and her father was not capable of caring for his daughter. Aselefich, Atinafu, Lalmba’s Country Director, and Minalush, Outreach Assistant, quickly drove to the health center where they found a young man, with tears in his eyes, holding an infant. An infant named Mekdes.

It is no small task taking in an infant and our staff fully understands the responsibility. Working with the head of the local social services, our staff learned more about the situation. The young couple was from a distant part of Ethiopia. They were unemployed and destitute so the government relocated them to this remote area and lent them a plot of land to farm. Neither the mother or father spoke any of the local languages and couldn’t communicate with anyone. After the mother tragically passed away he felt lost and abandoned with no way to care for his daughter. So he brought her to the local woreda (county) office and they brought her to Lalmba’s attention.

With compassion and empathy, our staff and the social workers tried to communicate the plan but we could see in his eyes that he didn’t understand. Finally a translator arrived and was able to share the plan, inform him of his rights and obligations, and confirm his consent for Lalmba to care for Mekdes for a few years while he gets his farm started.

We will do everything we can to reunify Mekdes with her father in a few years. Meanwhile, she will be living in the Chiri Children’s Home where she will receive love and loads of attention from our house mothers and her new siblings. She is our newest and youngest family member. Welcome to your new home, Mekdes!

60th Celebrations in Kenya and Ethiopia

^{By Rob Andzik}

We want to extend a very special thank you to the TNM 2023 Team for walking and helping kick off the celebrations in Kenya, and to all those in both Kenya and Ethiopia who helped organize the celebrations!

Compassion, Courage, Empowerment, and Community

^{By Rob Andzik}

Not everyone can make a journey like Tembea Na Mimi, visit the remote communities Lalmba supports, and witness the transformative impact of your donations firsthand. But if you could, what you would see is nothing short of a testament to the power of compassion, courage, empowerment, and community.

Many organizations do great work, promise efficient use of your donations, and aim to help the poor and destitute. So, what sets Lalmba apart? Lalmba’s uniqueness lies in these four words: Compassion, Courage, Empowerment, and Community.

Since 1963, Lalmba has been dedicated to serving some of the most remote and underserved communities in Africa. These are places that are hard to reach, far from the global media spotlight, where impoverished people are marginalized and virtually invisible to their own countries. It takes a great deal of Compassion and Courage to work in such challenging environments.

What truly sets Lalmba apart is our unwavering commitment to Empowerment. We don’t dictate; we collaborate. Lalmba provides for basic needs and also creates employment opportunities. We help single mothers start businesses through microloans. We help children receive an education and grow up healthy, with the potential to prosper. Above all, we prioritize the African people we serve, empowering them to lead change, and take ownership of their own futures. An example of this will be our new Education Center in Kenya, teaching skills needed to thrive in today’s world.

This philosophy leads us to Community. Lalmba is an integral part of the communities we work with, and the local people, together with our dedicated African staff, embodies the spirit of Lalmba as a People of Hope. Throughout Lalmba’s history, there have been countless stories of communities rallying together to overcome challenges. This spirit remains as strong as ever.

We witnessed this in Agaro Bushi, where we’re currently building staff housing. The trucks carrying materials couldn’t make the final steep climb due to mud and rough roads, stopping 3 km away. What we saw was remarkable: the community united, transporting building supplies on horses and their backs to ensure our clinic, which is, in truth, their clinic, could serve those in need.

The next day, in the cold pouring rain, it came full circle as three small boys walked into the clinic shivering with hypothermia. They had traveled alone and barefoot for two hours, from an even more remote community, so that their youngest brother could receive medical attention for a wound on his head. With Compassion, our staff tended to the wound, warmed these small boys to stop the shivering, and made sure they got safely home.

I invite you to join us on this remarkable journey. Your generosity fuels Lalmba’s work, ensuring that the impact continues for years to come. Together, with Lalmba’s staff and local leaders, we are transforming lives – one community, and in this case, three small boys, and an infant named Mekdes, at a time.

Reflections on the Road – Tembea Na Mimi 2023

^{By Jennifer Wenningkamp}

It was the final day of our charity walk – Tembea Na Mimi 2023. About half of our staff joined the TNM team and walked the journey between Ochuna and Matoso and I loved every moment of it. The glorious sounds of children singing and playing drums, people walking with us, dancing, and carrying banners, the taste of dust in my mouth, and the smell of camels overwhelmed my senses.

I closed my eyes, took a deep, warm breath, and was struck by the stark contrast between this day’s celebratory trek connecting Lalmba’s two clinics in Kenya and one of Lalmba’s earlier epic journeys years ago. What must it have been like to walk hundreds of miles from Keren, Eritrea, with the hope of finding safety in Sudan? It must have been eerily silent in 1977 when Sium led hundreds of children through the desert in the middle of the night, escaping a dangerous war zone that threatened the lives of Sium’s family and all of Lalmba’s 250 children.

That journey saved the lives of hundreds of children and and fundamentally reshaped Lalmba as an organization. It shifted us from being anchored in one city, a Place of Hope in Keren Eritrea, to being an organization firmly rooted in protecting the children and patients in our care. At great risk, Lalmba became a courageous people of hope.

Today, Lalmba remains committed to the essence of its name. Wherever we operate, we establish a Place of Hope. Wherever we go, we are a People of Hope. As we celebrate Lalmba’s 60th Anniversary, we reaffirm our dedication to being both a Place and a People of Hope.

Here are some exclusive TNM 2023 photos not included in the printed version of this newsletter.

We invite you to be a part of the 60th celebration by sending a special donation of $60 or more. Why are we asking for your help? We don’t rely on massive grants or government contracts; we operate at the pace of your generosity and we have so much more to do. We honor your contributions by keeping costs low here in the US. Approximately 90 cents of every dollar donated directly supports our programs. We are unwavering in our commitment to our mission and our vision for the people and communities we serve.

That’s why your participation in Lalmba is crucial. Your donations, gifts, and volunteerism are what keep the organization going and fuel the work of Lalmba.

Lalmba News, Volume 60, No. 1

July 22, 2023 Rob Andzik News

From Drought to Flooding in Kenya

By Jennifer Wenningkamp

We want to update you on the recent challenges faced by the communities surrounding our Matoso Clinic in Kenya. As you may recall, we previously mentioned the nearly 2-year-long drought that had taken a toll on these remote areas. The lack of rainfall not only parched the land but also devastated crops, starved farm animals, and left vulnerable elders and children struggling for food.

However, a sudden shift in the weather has brought about a new set of difficulties for these communities – excess rain and flooding! The rains, which were initially received with prayers and feelings of relief, have now become a source of distress.

In mid-May we received a note from Jenipher Atieno, our Lalmba Kenya Country Director, providing more information on what’s going on:

Flood has affected some areas in the community and
their farms are being swept away, which increased famine in our community. We are planning to give some Relief food in two weeks time for the vulnerable and desperate people who were affected.
Jenipher Atieno, Lalmba Kenya Country Director

Thanks to your generous support, Lalmba’s staff in Kenya was able to distribute this much needed food to people desperately effected by these dramatic changes in the weather.

Photos of the flooding and food distribution by Jenipher Atieno, Lalmba Kenya Country Director

A Behind the Scenes Look in Ethiopia

By Jennifer Wenningkamp

As you know, Lalmba focuses on serving the most destitute and poor, yet it wouldn’t happen without the constant efforts of our amazing staff. With that in mind, we want to give you a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes efforts that make it all happen.

We recently submitted the Agaro Bushi Medium Clinic’s 5-year report. This report summarizes our operations from 2018-2023. Our Ethiopian staff did an amazing job! The local and regional government officials attending the presentation were impressed by the great work Lalmba is doing, and even offered suggestions for other communities in need of help.

All the administrative work our staff does behind-the-scenes plays a vital role in Lalmba’s operations in Ethiopia. It helps us secure the resources we need, form valuable partnerships, and navigate the maze of regulations and policies. By running things efficiently, we make sure that your generous donations have the biggest possible impact.

Moving forward, we’ll keep focusing on transparency, accountability, and excellence in all our endeavors. It’s the combination of impactful work on the ground and diligent behind-the-scenes efforts that creates lasting change and empowers the communities in both Ethiopia and Kenya.

Lalmba is Turning 60!

On September 21, 1963, a young man named Hugh Downey started this incredible organization. For 60 years Lalmba has served the poor and destitute in Africa and in doing so touched well over 1,000,000 lives. It is time to Celebrate! We are planning parties in Kenya, Ethiopia, and the U.S. this July, August, and September. Contact us for details if you are interested in joining one of the Celebrations!

How Were Your Generous Donations Used in 2022?

In our commitment to transparency, we want to share with you how your generosity and support of nearly $800,000 transformed lives in remarkable ways over the past year.

We Have Upgraded Our Communications

For over two decades Lalmba has used the same donor database to track all our amazing supporters. The system though was becoming cumbersome and a distraction from the real work, so we recently transitioned to a new, online system. Please let us know if you notice any incorrect information (names, addresses, etc) in any of our communications.

But don’t worry, we’re still the same Lalmba you know and love!

A Special Walker Joining Tembea Na Mimi 2023

By Dickens Otieno

Hi, my name is Dickens Otieno,

I am honored to be in the team of walkers in this wonderful adventure!

I was born and raised at Matoso, a small village in Kenya (where Lalmba is actually located). I am glad to inform you that I’m a pure product of Lalmba. I joined Lalmba Ongoro Children’s Home in 2006 till 2011, when I completed my primary education. Lalmba proceeded to pay for my high school until I finished and still, Lalmba supports me at the University.

I generally have no other way to say thank you for all these. That’s why I requested for this opportunity to join the walk and also raise money to help fund other needy children. I’m just one of the thousands of needy children Lalmba has supported, there are thousands of children currently in the program and there are thousands who are also not in the program but still need help, that’s why I’m joining this walk, coz there is still a bigger task.

I am a third year student at Mount Kenya University pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in International Relations. Kenya has a rich and unique diversity of culture, wildlife and resources. I in advance welcome all the walkers to Kenya and welcome all to come and see the good work Lalmba is doing right here. Lalmba supported me, I will always strive to pay back in whatever means so that other needy persons can also get help. Lalmba has played a major role in community development and has also steered its growth. Please help me in supporting my young brothers and sisters.

Thank you!

Please take a moment to watch Dickens’ interview and hear his story in his own words at www.lalmba.org/tnm

A Gift Of Hope: Handmade Bags From Matoso

The Courage And Strength Of A Mother’s Love

An Added Gift As A Member Of Lalmba’s Family

Serving as a Volunteer in Agaro Bushi

We Need Your Support!

Children Are The Future

The Matoso Education and Empowerment Center

Success Through Microloans

Public Health Crisis

Love has always been at the heart of Lalmba

Celebrating our heros

Become A Lalmba Vision Partner

New Beginnings For A Malnourished Child

Navigating the Challenges of Food Insecurity

Out of the Ethiopian Rain Forest

Reflections on 2023

Tembea Na Mimi 2025

A Shepherd’s Journey to Life-Saving Treatment

Meet Mekdes

60th Celebrations in Kenya and Ethiopia

Compassion, Courage, Empowerment, and Community

Reflections on the Road – Tembea Na Mimi 2023

From Drought to Flooding in Kenya

A Behind the Scenes Look in Ethiopia

Lalmba is Turning 60!

How Were Your Generous Donations Used in 2022?

We Have Upgraded Our Communications

A Special Walker Joining Tembea Na Mimi 2023

Contact Us

Our Locations

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