Visiting the Rendille People
Over the weekend we traveled with Andre and Coline 440 kilometers north to Laisamis. Between Nairobi and Laisamis are exactly two stop signs—and about 2,000 speed bumps amidst gorgeous changing countryside. As the lush mountainous terrain transformed into vast arid expanse, we were reminded of the variety of landscape found in our former Colorado home back in the states. Once we arrived, we were welcomed by the Rendille people—a tribe made of nomadic shepherds who tend camels, sheep, goats and cattle. "Rendille" translates as "holders of the stick of God." The group that gathered with us, made up of mostly women and children, enjoyed Coline's teaching on basic hygiene and health practices as she seeks to invest her knowledge into making medical disciples. We spent the day enjoying the playful company of this colorful community.
Here are some video stills from our trip:
The open expanse of Laisamis.
Coline teaches the people about options to purify water.
A woman takes in the simple, yet life saving information.
The meeting pavilion for teaching.
The group smiles with appreciation for the resources and knowledge provided.
The stunning, intricate adornments that decorate this community.
Precious little one.
Andre and Coline doing their thing!
So many women and children surround the Range Rover where Coline checks blood pressure.
Many of these women have never had their blood pressure taken.
Everyone is interested to know their numbers and playfully compete for the best results.
This little one is content being strapped onto momma's back.
Coline is happy to see that most of the numbers are healthy.
Two little cuties socializing while being carried.
Derrick leads the kids in some games. (Follow the Leader was easier than Duck Duck Goose.)
We are welcomed by the matriarchs with handmade beaded bracelets—River too!
A nearby riverbed serves as the men's living room and place of relaxation.
Coline is amazed to discover the men have even better blood pressure results than the women!
So many stories in this face.
River gets scooped by one of the patriarchs.
Hanging out with kids—human and camel.
Our route.
Car trouble on the way back extended our trip by several hours, but Andre pretended to be a mechanic and we made it home safely. †
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