BANDARI & MWENGE – REPORT 1
September 10, 2026
BANDARI & MWENGE – REPORT 3
September 14, 2026
From our Kenya travel team today…
After an impromptu morning dance party in the rain with the children at the Kamoti’s, we made our way to the remote village of Mwenge. The road leading to Mwenge is filled with deep pits, washed out spots, and flooded areas when the rains come, making the already lengthy drive even longer and more treacherous. Upon our arrival, we were blessed with beautiful dances, songs, and poems presented to us by the people of Mwenge. Their deep appreciation for the support we have provided shined in the energy and emotion behind each performance.
We were then honored to visit the family of Murima Mangi and meet his wife and 5 children. Murima is the villager that was helping dig the latrine pit when the dirt crushed down on him. A beautiful prayer and condolences were shared, with our deepest sympathies going out to this family. The anguish of the loss of their husband and father is such a heavy weight for this family to bear, and that pain can easily be seen and felt in their presence. He will truly be missed by so many.
The people of Mwenge showered us with more dances, songs, and outpourings of love. One of our favorite moments of the day was when the learners were performing for us and the MC cut the performance short due to down pouring rain. Their disappointment was audible and evident, and Jen Matthews was quick to the rescue! She brought all the travel team back out into the rain and started dancing again. The children were SO EXCITED and we immediately got back to business dancing and singing together, without a single care for the persistent (but so needed!) moisture.
Aaron and Andrew of Hawaii State FCU were thrilled to cut the ribbon to the new classrooms and toilet blocks, and we were all honored to represent all the Grant Victor Cares team in handing these over to Mwenge. Andrew was excited to donate a classroom in honor of his wife, who is a teacher. Aaron was excited to donate a classroom in honor of his late father. Energy and excitement were so high, with the dancing, singing, and traditional tribal calls continuing as the parade of hundreds moved through Mwenge. We wrapped up the afternoon with the infamous “Burto Ball” and a rainbow parachute tent. The kids squealed in delight as they ran, played, and watched the kickball and Burto Ball fly through the air. A few sweets for everyone added a little something extra to this afternoon fun. We hugged hundreds of children goodbye before pulling away for the day. Tomorrow, we look forward to returning to Mwenge to paint the mural on the new classrooms to finalize this beautiful addition to the village.
