4/3/2024 Kenya (International Christian Concern) – Although Mary and Joan do not know each other, they share similar stories of loss and restoration.

Both women lost their husbands to Muslim extremists, who brutally murdered the men for their faith in Jesus Christ. Joan’s husband, Alfred, was stoned to death by the local Muslim residents of Mandera, Kenya, who were protesting police for allegedly killing two suspected al-Shabab members. Mary’s husband, Kaingu, was killed by al-Shabab terrorists as they ambushed Christians on the side of a road in Lamu County, Kenya. 

Joan and Mary also each have two children. Since the attacks, the two mothers have struggled to provide for their families. With a passion for clothing and skills in sewing, each woman opened a clothing business to have a source of income. 

One difference between the women’s stories is how long it took them to find safety and security. Mary’s husband died in 2023, and International Christian Concern quickly provided her with a sewing machine and fabric to jumpstart her business. Joan’s husband died in 2018. After ICC initially helped her establish a clothing business, she did not find success and moved to Nairobi, where she hoped to advance her career. 

ICC came alongside Joan a second time and provided her with a sewing machine and fabric in Nairobi, which allowed her to cover her family’s basic needs and her children’s school fees.  

“I am deeply grateful to ICC for their unwavering support and for nurturing my entrepreneurial spirit,” Joan said. “Through this business, I envision possibly acquiring a small piece of land and further expanding my enterprise. Once again, thank you, ICC, and may the Almighty continue to bless your endeavors.”  

Mary had a similar response to ICC’s assistance. “I firmly believe that with prayer and hard work, this business will grow and flourish,” she said. “I am deeply thankful to ICC for extending a helping hand during this time of adversity.” 

Joan and Mary share their trauma with countless other women throughout Kenya. In their case, however, they also share a sense of redemption. ICC is deeply grateful to have been used by the Lord to bless Joan and Mary.  

We praise God for his steady hand during these two families’ trials and for his provision. We pray that Joan, Mary, and their children will continue to see the Lord’s faithfulness in their lives. We pray that their clothing businesses will be profitable and that these families will testify to the Lord’s goodness to their communities. 

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