Wilson May 2026

“…do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).

Local Update

Over the past few years, a population surge has been occurring in the Mwiki/Kasarani neighborhood which surrounds our Village. For us, it was manifested by the ever-increasing traffic back-ups that we encountered each week. But, as we dug deeper, we found the answer was much less complicated than that. The word on the street is that this area is known for having a clean and consistent supply of water.

First week of term two

Ecological scarcity is not the only cause for this “human migration.” Tribal strife and civil chaos in other parts of Africa and other regions of the world have contributed as well. Refugees from Somalia, Sudan, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Burundi, Pakistan, and Afghanistan are now calling the country of Kenya their home.

Even the price of petrol has crept up from 176 shillings/liter in February to 197 shillings/liter in May, confirming that conflicts occurring elsewhere in the world have a trickle-down effect on the locals here, whether they drive or not. As a result, building projects have increased—including a new mosque down the road, which is being constructed in record time.

With so many things to worry about in the world, Paul’s instruction and encouragement to the Philippians in chapter four is even more comforting than it has been in the past. And he can speak to us about facing life’s challenges since he was likely writing this epistle from a Roman prison! It is a great comfort to know that God offers peace and fellowship with Him to those who are submitted to Him.

Home Office Visit

Early in May, we were blessed to receive a visit from the Home Office staff. Kenya was the last stop on their five-Village tour (following Uganda, Malawi, Rwanda, and Tanzania). During these semi-annual visits, the Executive Director and her staff meet with ministry partners, address security concerns, assess the condition of the buildings, and the effectiveness of Rafiki’s six ministry areas: Rafiki Bible Study, Education, Orphan Care, Widows Program, Rafiki Teachers’ College (RICE), and Outreach. It is also a time of encouragement, instruction, and fellowship with those who oversee Rafiki’s ten Villages from the “60,000-foot” vantage point.

Morning assembly during the Home office visit, Karen Elliott, Rafiki Executive Director to the far right

The visit concluded with a wonderful recitation program presented by students from kindergarten to grade four. The hard work they had put in was evident, as they delivered poems, songs, and fables with fluid hand motions and just the right amount of “projection, diction, and expression.” The second graders stole the show singing several Rafiki Grammar songs through their adorable, toothless grins. No one could resist tapping their toes to a rousing chorus of: “I’m a verb, verb, verb! I’m an action word! So, put me where the action is ‘cuz I’m an action word!” The synergy, poise, and enthusiasm of all grade levels displayed how much they enjoy learning about God and the world at Rafiki and sharing that knowledge with others.

Outreach Program

In an effort to provide education to children in the poorest communities, many individuals have opened independent schools in Kenya over the years, whether in the suburbs, rural areas, or even the slums of Nairobi. For those administrators and teachers who seek Christ-centered education, the Rafiki Classical Christian School (RCCS) serves as a “model school,” demonstrating the Rafiki curriculum to observers and providing follow-up training for those who want to use our curriculum and Bible study materials. These educators believe so strongly in teaching from a biblical worldview that they serve in schools where their wages may only equate to $50 USD per month. We are thankful to be a part of this expanding mission to share the truth and love of God with students through these committed believers.

Rafiki R is worn by pupils who have shown academic, artistic, athletic, and leadership attributes

Fruitful Alumni

RCCS alumni, Faith, recently paid a visit to the Village and was happy to share some insights about her former home and school. A member of the graduating class of 2021, she is even more thankful now for all that was provided for her physically, mentally, and spiritually while being raised at Rafiki. She is currently working on a degree in Marketing and completing an internship at a local firm. But she is also gifted in the fine arts and plans to develop an after school arts program for local youth, as a means of giving back to the community.

Alumni Fatih, poses with her little sisters

Praises

• Alumni Faith has blossomed into a godly young woman, with a heart to serve God and others.
• Our scouting program continues to instill discipline, diligence, and respect in students, as it expands into the upper school grades (seven through twelve).
• Two of our bright students, siblings Alvan (grade three) and Lily (grade one), have qualified for the 2026 Africa Youth Chess Championship which will take place in Entebbe, Uganda later this month. These chess aficionados will represent the nation as part of Team Kenya at this international event.

Chess champs head to Uganda!

Prayer Requests

• That the hearts of some of the day pupils’ parents would be drawn into true covenant with us and the Rafiki mission for educating their children, rather than trying to change it.
• That, through the power of the Holy Spirit, students who are seekers will come to have a true, firm faith in Jesus Christ.
• That our team in Kenya will stand united as we discern God’s direction and work to glorify Him.
• That God-honoring friendships will develop throughout the Rafiki Village.

We thank the Lord for those who contribute to our mission work—whether its annual giving or those who partner with us monthly. We are honored to do our part as “the hands and feet of Jesus” here in Kenya.

Morning assembly, led by School of Logic students

“Mungu akubariki” (God bless you)!

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