Front and center in the international news this week is the violence surrounding protests throughout Kenya (learn more here).

First, we want to share that the children and staff of the Centre are safe and that we are thankful that the Centre campus is located out of the city in a rural setting.

Borne of years of frustration and lack of opportunity, young people throughout Kenya have initiated protests against the government’s unfair tax bill passed on Tuesday. These taxes included:

  • 16% tax on bread and 25% on cooking oil
  • 16% tax on goods and services required to equip hospitals to serve patients
  • tax on essential women’s care and baby care items that are already unaffordable for many
  • tax on all financial transactions, mobile phones, and electronic equipment Kenyans need to do their work

These protests and the government’s response have claimed 20 lives and property damage has been substantial (including part of the parliament building being set ablaze). While the President has temporarily backed off the tax plan, fear is high, schools are closed, and food supply will become strained. Please pray for peace and justice for all of Kenya’s people.

Children of the Centre

Last week before the protests began, the Brydges Centre children were leading in a different way. Rosemary shared that the school’s marching band was given the honor of leading the parade for The Day of the African Child in our community. This day is recognized across the continent of Africa in commemoration of another protest in the 1970s where 10,000 school children marched in South Africa in protest of the poor quality of their education. Unfortunately, violence and loss of life occurred back then as well.

We are so proud of our children’s leadership in this year’s event, and we are so thankful they represent a new generation that receives high quality education at the Brydges Centre.

In times of challenge in Kenya, it is good for all of us to be reminded that God is blessing the Brydges Centre leadership and children and that you are a part of making miracles happen in their lives. We can’t thank you enough for doing so!

With Our Love,
Bob and Nancy, Rosemary, The Staff, and The Children

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