Soccer Among the Masai

The house is quiet as I log some of the events of our day. The fire is settling to a warm glow, I have padlocked the steel gates and locked the doors that seal us in at night, and take some time to reflect. Despite some threatening weather we ventured down to a small Masai village in the midst of the Rift Valley. The pavement ended shortly outside of Kijabe and we bounced, and splashed and rocked for well over an hour on 4X4-only roads. We had to follow the "alternate" route as the rains had washed out the road across the river for the usual route. The valley was lush, the birds abundant, and we even encountered a few zebra along the trip.


We were warmly welcomed by the local pastors surrounded by many children of the village. The Christians in the community have been instrumental in constructing and staffing a school; in bringing clean water to the community; in developing a rock quarry to support the economic base of the village; and to find support through Compassion for more than 450 of the orphaned children and children at risk within this region.

Travelling back the the school we presented the local school superintendent with 2 sets of soccer uniforms and some soccer balls courtesy of the Valley Soccer Association. How fitting that these Masai children of the Rift Valley would now have bright red (traditional Masai color) and blue jerseys labeled with "Valley Soccer" insignia. They could hardly contain their excitement as they quickly donned their new uniforms and engaged in a demonstration of their soccer skills.

I was humbled to see both the extent and the patience of those working with this community. Cooperativley they tackle project that not only meet the immediate need, but provide the skills and understanding to help them towards self-suffiency. It is a hard life. They have just come through a long period of drought and have been challenged in dealing with HIV/AIDS. This week the leaders will investigate an intiative that may see each family receive a battery and a single light for their homes. For a community that has never had lights in their home, this will be a remarkable opportunity.

The evening rains have started. The moisture over the past 6-8 weeks has transformed this valley from a brown, dusty, desolate place to a rich, lush, vibrant landscape. It is said that if you bring rain, you have brought a special blessing to the community and receive a warm welcome. We have been blessed by much rain and have certainly enjoyed a generous welcome.

Gary