News & stories Updates from East Afica On his last EMM administrative trip to Africa, Clair Good visited EMM work in the East African countries of Kenya, Ethiopia, Somalia, and another Muslim country in East Africa (which cannot be named for security reasons). In Kenya, librarian Grace Guntz and teachers Brent and Katrina Siegrist are at Rosslyn Academy – a unique elementary and high school in Nairobi that ministers to 450 students from 31 nations. Rosslyn has a dual focus, ministering to missionary children, and sharing a positive witness of Jesus Christ to those students who come from Muslim, Hindu, and other non-Christian homes. The teachers report that this is a stimulating environment in which to teach and minister Jesus' love. Outside of Nairobi, Olepolos Community Mennonite Church, featured in EMM’s video “Transformation in Olepolos,” is starting its third new congregation and graduating over 600 people from its Village University leadership training school. It has become recognized as a regional story of transformation, and people are coming from across the continent to see the encouraging things that are happening there. VIDEO - View Transformation in Olepolos The Kenya Mennonite Church is also developing a strategy of church growth and community development, to transform them into a truly national Mennonite church including persons from various ethnic backgrounds and geographical locations. The Kenya Mennonite Church’s work into Uganda is growing as they have already started three new church plants within the last year. Missionary John Otieno reported sustained consistent growth and interest in their work in western Uganda. One EMM missionary couple lived in Nairobi and focused on work among Somalis until their departure this summer. No one has yet come forward to replace them and continue this work. Clair said, “They have been resourceful and creative as they have been involved in development, education, and faithful Christian witness among the Somali people. They have ministered as true servants of Jesus Christ in situations which have often been quite dangerous. The good relationships Mennonites have developed in Somalia and among the Somali people are exceptional. I lament that we have come to this point in ministry where we have an open door to the unreached Somali people, but are unable to fill this position. The openness and receptivity to the Mennonite community to engage in Somalia is beyond anything that other missions have experienced.” In Ethiopia, Carl and Vera Hansen continue their work at Meserete Kristos College, where Carl has been installed as the interim president. The construction of new college campus, critically important in helping the church train up leaders to guide its rapidly expanding membership, is progressing. Much progress is also being made towards developing the liberal arts component of the college vision. Carl says, “We fully expect this work to be completed and decisions made by the time the building is ready for occupancy in January 2007. At that time we will very much welcome volunteer teachers from the first world to assist us in the various departments. In the months ahead we will be coveting your prayers, advice, and financial backing as never before! We have a worthy mission and a great vision! Let us move ahead together by God’s grace!” PHOTO GALLERY - View 3d architectual drawings of Meserete Kristos College Back to news and stories