TANZANIA 2024: MATEBETE

We were in Matebete Village from 14 to 19 September.

This was our first trip to the village since the passing of ITO Chairman Saileni Ole Megelali.
One of the first things we did was visit the gravesite.

On Saturday we visited the outdoor market in Chimala.

Buying vegetables for the coming week

On Sunday morning Tim taught at Pastor Mary Kurubai's church in Makao.

The children's choir

From Monday to Thursday, Tim and Evan took turns teaching.
Paulo and Irene shared duties as our interpreters.

A new portrait of Rev. Yohanna Ole N'gekee adorns the back wall of the ITO Center.

Several other men and women were given the opportunity to teach and speak.

Irene Lobara spoke about her new life in the Netherlands, and warned the church
of the dangers of neglecting the things of God.

Anna Lobara making a passionate prayer

Women's Group leader Sophia Kaney, wife of Eliakimu Kurupash

Evan participates in a song and dance

"Alikiorito ororei le ngai o matoosa tukul tukul"
(I will speak the Word of God until I am very old)

A meeting for the men under the big tree

Evelyn Kaney (in red) arranged all the meals for the occasion with much help from others.

Tim with his hosts Paraboy Ole Kaney and his wife, Monica

Evan enjoying a fire with Eliakimu Mollely outside his parents' home.

Monica Lobara teaching

Monica's mother, affectionately known as Wao. Now in her 90's, she is as vibrant
as when we first met almost 20 years ago.

Tim with Josiah George, leader of the young men's group.

Tim and Evan received commemorative necklaces.

Tim with Anna

A lovely sunset walk

Young herders with Naumu Kurupashi and Irene

Heading home

Irene at the village primary school that was sponsored by donors in Holland.

Evan with Kulwa Saningo

A neighborhood shop

Tim with his young friend Lambaiwa in 2015 and in 2024.

Tim with Patrick's wife Neema who made this shirt for him.

Leaving Matebete

Tim with Philipo and Selena Kaney

At the airport in Mbeya getting ready to fly back to Dar es Salaam:
Tim, Nditosidai, Mesaya, Dorcas, Evan, Philipo, and Paulo