Machakos, in Kenya is one of Swansea and Brecon’s link dioceses where The Daystar Hostel provides basic accommodation for young women who attend the nearby university, at a reasonable charge.
Accommodation is expensive in this area and the young women often turn to prostitution to earn the rent. Swansea and Brecon MU responded to a request for funding from the Provincial Worker and Bishop. The sum of £2500 was raised towards employment of a night watchman who ensures that there is proper security and maintenance. Also the funding provided bed linen.
Kitui is another of their link dioceses. Members are supporting birthing project in Kitui, Kenya by raising £3600. The project not only look after the needs of expectant mothers but aims to increase knowledge on general health issues in the community including HIV/aids, TB, nutrition. The Mothers’ Union Worker, in Kitui is overseeing the project.
Initially, 40 women are to be trained and they will train local Home Birthing Attendants, to assist mothers in the villages.
There is a great need for this as mothers often deliver their babies at home. Hospitals are too far away, expensive and require mothers to possess specific items of clothing for admission. Many mothers, in low income groups, cannot afford such financial demands at the time of delivery.