As you may know, Sleaford has an active Boys' and Girls' Brigade. Formed in 1976 and 1981, they meet at the United Reformed Church.
In 2000 three adults from Sleaford visited Kenya with others to take part in building work at a theological college in Kabare. Whilst there, contact was made with the Boys' and Girls' Brigades, who asked one of those visiting to return to specifically visit the Kenyan Brigades.
In 2001 this trip took place with a Boys' Brigade officer and the Girls' Brigade Captain returning to spend time with various Brigade companies including those from Embu. They returned excited at the enthusiasm of the Brigades and also of their interest in the UK Brigades. Embu leaders enquired as to whether an exchange could be viable.
Finding similar enthusiasm in our Brigades, about the prospect of an exchange, help was sought not only from the officers but also from parents and members of the church. A small group was formed to investigate cost and possible areas of fund raising by the Brigades and to seek support from wider a field
Embu - Kenya
Kenya is a country on the eastern coast of Africa, right on the equator. Embu is one of the seven districts of Eastern Province. The district occupies an area of 2,714 sq. km. This is about 2% of the total area of Eastern Province. This area includes that covered by forests, rivers, dams, etc. The district is divided into five divisions.
Kenya is a hot country and this is the main reason we are planning that the Kenyan Brigade visits the UK in August - so that things are not too cold for them. Similarly our visit is planned for Easter when the Kenyan climate is more likely to be manageable for those from Sleaford.
The Boys and Girls Brigades in Kenya have seen rapid growth over recent years. In the Embu district the first company was started at Mukangu six years ago. Since then 51 more companies have been started and over 1500 boys and girls enrolled. Although very poor, they are very eager to learn, to grow and to experience new things.
The Boys' and Girls' Brigades
The Boys' and Girls' Brigades are led by Christians from local churches. These leaders are trained volunteers who are committed to providing a regular meeting time of activities and skills for boys and girls as they mature to young men and women. The Brigades usually meet on a weekday evening based in a local church, centre or school.
The Boys' and Girls' Brigades have become known worldwide as a fun, interesting, challenging and relevant provider of activities, skills, care and Christian love for hundreds of thousands of young people.
Links:Back to BEE
Boys Brigade
Girls Brigade
Brigade Band.
© 2007 Sleaford United Reformed Church.