Project Progress

By Ras Benaiah

Community Relations with Shiriki

It is quite obvious that without a good relationship with the local community an organization like ours cannot achieve to implement its project activities; for the essence of our work here is community building.

Members of the immediate community at Maragua have continued to show a steady trust and confidence with the volunteers at the Shiriki farm. As a proof to this, local farmers have been visiting our farm sharing indigenous seed of various crops such as cassava, bananas and avocados while giving us some important tips on vital facts about these breeds.

They even come just to check our wellbeing and to assure us of their full support. 

“I have a guarantee in you people… and I know my stand!” says Mzee Mumo who was at the head of the official delegation of elders that confirmed our presence in the area. In return to the local folks welcome and cooperation, we have been sharing knowhow on many topics chief among them organic farming and how it can positively impact on the lives of all of us.

"Your presence in this community is very vital," says Mr. Mwore Waweru, a local farmer, "…for you came to remind us of our ancient values and how we should not be using chemicals in growing our food… no wonder our people are suffering from new ailments!"

We greatly feel at home in this community.

Apparently, the character of our volunteers and our general way of life which is based on a strong spiritual foundation, have received much appreciation from the entire community. But remarkable approval has been coming from the children of this area. Along the village streets as we walk you can hear the children hailing out loud ‘Raaaastafari!’ to our delight. Their parents have reposed their confidence in us in handling the youth. During the weekends as well as holidays some of the youths come to the camp and learn a lot, including crafts which they really take delight in.

In order to reach more numbers of youth and engage them in more progressive activities, so far we have established good relations with several local schools where we hope to carry on with the various programs such as environment conservation, art & crafts, organic agriculture as well on other social issues that affect the school children and the community at large.

Shiriki art display-been an effective forum.

We are sure that echoes emanating from our appreciation in this community will reach the many youth who have ran away from the same community, and are merely idling and slaving in the urban areas such as Nairobi, while their strength would make great difference if it were channeled in building the neighborhood, and that they will rethink their act of deserting of home.