In this semi arid area in Kenya here we work, the rains have failed three times in succession over 18 months - severe hunger stalks the land. In this fragile subsistence economy people rely entirely on the crops they grow in their small family patch (shamba) to feed themselves. If they have any goats they will sell one precious goat for cash to buy food. But with sparse grazing, goats are very thin and their market price continues to fall, unable to compete with the rocketing food prices - vicious circle!

20 kgs of mixed maize and beans will feed an elderly person from now until beyond Christmas and costs a meagre £12.75. A generous daily portion of 150 gms of maize and beans will bring kids into school every day to fill their tummies and their brains for just £6.50 per head for a whole term!

Maybe... instead of sending out Christmas cards you could gift that amount for the provision of food for the hungry? Or you may wish, in place of giving a gift to friend or family you could gift that amount in their name to make that gift of food?

Which everwhatway it will be "asante sana mkubwa sana".... a very BIG THANK YOU from young and old!!