monthly focus ~ update on niger food crisis

UPDATE ON NIGER FOOD CRISIS

In October EBM reported that the country of Niger was facing a food crisis (see Niger Food Shortage Crisis).  Because of drought, a famine swept the land.  Many in the US responded to EBM’s plea for help in providing funds for food for these starving Nigeriens.  EBM  missionaries on the Niger field personally thank you for your generous gifts of more than $12,000 given during this time of food crisis.  (see Current Projects).

Your gifts of grain have touched and changed lives.  EBM missionaries purchased a large amount of grain (both corn and rice), which they distributed through the local churches.  They also gave grain to needy individuals as well as to Nigerien believers laboring alongside us.  Although Niamey (the primary area in which EBM works) was not as severely stricken, many to whom we gave grain sent food to their suffering families in the bush.  One of the local pastors does evangelistic and discipleship work in the prison and a gift of grain was given to them.  The Niger field was able to share some funds for food with EBM missionaries working in Mali, where people are also struggling from shortages. 

Your gifts of grain have touched and changed lives.  Pastor Ali Soumaila shared the how the grain distribution at the prison impacted Hadiza and her family.  Hadiza received grain while incarcerated.   As a result, one of her daughters and an uncle visited Pastor Ali at  his house where he shared the Gospel with them.  Since then, the uncle has returned frequently, often with a friend, and the two are planning a Bible study with Pastor Ali. Pray for their salvation. 

The grain distribution has also opened several other doors for Pastor Ali.  When he visited 17 year old Omar, recently released from prison, Pastor Ali gave his mother some grain for the family. Omar’s mother is now studying the Bible with Pastor Ali’s wife.  Pray for salvation of this family.

Pastor Abdourahamane reports that several young boys are excited about coming to church but their parents prevent them from regularly attending.  These families were given grain and now these parents willingly allow their children to go to church.  The boys ask for prayer for their parents who were deeply touched by the compassionate help. 

Pastor Abdourahamane also shared that an old Zarma widow came to the church one day soliciting help.  He clearly explained the plan of salvation to her and then gave her some corn.  This was 2 over months ago, and since that time, she has been a faithful attendee and regularly hearing solid Biblical teaching.  

Dan Haynes, EBM missionary in Mali, writes that there is no question this generosity is bearing fruit. Not only is there warm words of thanks, but there is a growing attitude of openness and love. Where they have distributed grain, children are openly enthusiastic towards the Gospel and even more encouraging is that they are not being threatened or discouraged by parents or older relatives.

No one knows what the coming year holds for Niger.  Experts disagree. Some believe the worst  is past.   However, some are forecasting a crisis more devastating than last year.  For that reason, as additional funds come in, EBM missionaries are planning to purchase grain at current low prices.  Later, when prices rise, the Mission can sell that grain at the present cost to those in need at a much lower price than prevailing market rates. Jesus said the greatest commandment is to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul and mind and to love your neighbor as yourself.    In Matthew 25, he taught that whatever we do for another is as though we do it to Him. Thank you for demonstrating your love in such a tangible way.  We trust that God will richly bless you and your families.  Thank you for your continued prayers and gifts for the people of West Africa.

Chris and Diane Marine--W. African Regional Directors,

Amber Marshall-- Sahel Academy, PE/dorm assistant,

Dave and Anora Totman--Sahel Academy chaplain,

Tim and Richelle Wright--Radio/Television Studio