Isiolo town is relatively small, but extremely
critical in importance. It is strategically located at the edge of
the vast “Northern Frontier District” region of Northeastern
Kenya. Isiolo has been called “the end of civilization.” It
is the jumping off point for the undeveloped Northeastern region
which is inhabited by the more primitive tribes of East Africa, as
well as ethnic Somalis who are virtually 100% Muslim.
Environment
Hostile Climate. Daily temperatures near 100 degrees year round. Frequent
droughts. Malaria and other diseases endemic.
Security
Isiolo District used to be a favorite target for armed cattle rustlers.
It was not uncommon to see even young boys possessing sophisticated
guns like AK47 rifles. Ironically, Islamic terrorism has IMPROVED
the security situation in Isiolo. The Kenya government implemented
new security measures after post-9/11 terrorist attacks in Isiolo.
Kenya Map
Religion
Fourteen mosques dominate the religious landscape. But, average
attendance of all churches and mosques is only 4,800, or
approximately 10% of Isiolo’s population of 50,000.
Persecution The small community of Christian believers
has historically suffered persecution in Isiolo at alarming levels.
Danger has increased after 9/11.
History of our Bible Baptist Church planting
in Isiolo About 20 years ago, we planted a Bible believing
church in Isiolo. After some initial success, persecution discouraged
most of the believers. Two short-term missionaries succeeded in reviving
the work. A plot was purchased and a small building was erected. A
young pastor was installed and the work grew slowly for a while. The
pastor had no outside funds to rely upon, so he had to struggle to
find various jobs in this economically depressed town. With very little
encouragement, constant persecution, sickness and poverty, he finally
gave up and moved back to his home village. The small congregation
managed to continue meeting, but the work stagnated.
Six years ago Pastor
Francis Mwaniki, who had a successful and secure ministry in
his home
village,
answered the missionary call from God, and moved his wife, Lucy,
and their four children to Isiolo to work with the struggling
church. The Mwaniki family has endured the hostile climate, illness,
and persecution, in order to see very slow
progress in the Isiolo ministry.
The Mwanikis do need additional financial support.
If you wish to support them regularly, or with a one-time gift?
Please send your donation, with a note: “For Francis Mwaniki”
We are buying this fantastic facility, which
is situated in a strategic location, overlooking the whole town of
Isiolo. When we signed the contract for about $125,000, we did not
see any logical way that this staggering amount would be available.
Every three months, we have had to trust purely in the Lord to provide
the $11,000 payments. It’s unbelievable that 8 payments have
already been made, and there are just 3 to go!! Just $33,000 left!
It still seems staggering!
This wonderful building has enabled
us to establish an ORPHANAGE, children’s feeding program, youth
center, nursery school, addiction counseling center, and job training
training program, in addition to the spiritual ministries of the church.
Will YOU help us shine the light of hope into this darkened area of
the world?
Send donations to:
Baptist Bible Fellowship, Int.
PO Box 191
Springfield, MO 65801
Checks payable to “Baptist Bible
Fellowship”, but be sure to indicate that it is for the
account of “Jerry Daniels, Kenya” — “Isiolo
Project”
Donate online with PayPal:
Contact phone numbers for more information:
Mobile
-- 011-254-733-612771
Land Line 1 -- 011-254-20-271-2714
Land Line 2 -- 011-254-62-32233
