There is a large party of our Scottish friends at present in Kenya, engaged in preparing the way for the establishing of a hospital at Sengera. It is not intended to build a new hospital but to make use of the buildings already there. The recently built kitchen and laundry are much larger than is necessary.
Mr Ian MacLean, an Inverness builder, has already arrived in Kenya. There are three nurses, Jessie Coote from Zimbabwe, Truus Ringelberg, and Celia Renes. In addition, there is the welcome presence of Rev. John Goldby, and Mrs Goldby and three children. Last but not least, it was with much pleasure that Mr Donald MacDonald, his wife, Dr Christine and little Sarah were welcomed back during the month of December. They all have an arduous task before them, and we wish them the Lord’s blessing and encouragement.
A letter has come from Sister Anne Zekveld from Mbuma. She writes first of the fact that cases of plague have diminished in number. She speaks of the great efforts of the Government to stamp out the epidemic. The area, one of four in the country, has been sprayed with D.D.T. and the people warned about symptoms to be noted, and precautions to be taken.
Anne says, ‘One good result of the Government’s interest in Mbuma at this time was that during the second week of October a big Army helicopter landed on the airstrip bringing high-standing officials to investigate the plague problem. One of these investigators was the Secretary for Health. After the Doctor had gone round the wards with Dr Janette, he asked how they were getting on with the new kitchen. It was he who had stressed the necessity of making use of the kitchen, when in conversation previously with Dr Janette. She now explained the situation and he immediately gave permission for two full-time workers to be employed in the kitchen, and for an additional domestic to be engaged for the hospital. As to the new experience of feeding the patients, formerly attended to by accompanying relatives, the Government has increased the annual allowance by more than double the previous amount so that the funding of the kitchen is no longer a problem’. Anne says, ‘We are reminded again of the faithfulness of our God.’
Miss Louise Leiper’s arrival at Mbuma was greatly welcomed. Her Work Permit has not yet been received so she is studying the language and observing the general running of the hospital, but she is not permitted to engage in the practical work. Miss Margaret MacAskill has returned to Mbuma and is at work as if she had never been away, to the pleasure and gratitude of all.
Miss Etta MacLennan is retiring from her work at the John Tallach School. Her teaching and special interest in religious instruction will be greatly missed. In addition, Etta was responsible for the daily clinic attached to the Boarding School. We wish Etta a happy retirement.
Rev. and Mrs D. A. Ross expect to leave for our South African Mission about the middle of January. They will visit Zimbabwe, Malawi and Kenya, if all is well. We trust that the Lord will be with them and bless His Word. J.N.