International Christian Concern | Nathan Johnson | August 28, 2020
“He spent his wealth on the education of his children and died before enjoying the fruit of his labor.” These were the opening words of Mrs. Kalenda, the wife of Kilonzo Musili when International Christian Concern (ICC) visited her in July. She met us outside her homestead in Kathanze village, in the remote division of Nuu, Mwingi South. The mother of seven is still grieving the sudden death of her husband through a terror attack in Mandera that happened six months ago.
“According to the report we received from the police, he was shot dead on February 19 when the passenger bus they were in was accosted by Al-Shabaab terrorists in Mandera. The attackers separated Christians from Muslims and ordered them to get down from the bus. He alighted together with another passenger and were asked if they knew the teachings of Islam. During the interrogation and commotion, the terrorists shot them dead.”
The February 19 attack was one amongst many previous incidences where Christians have been singled out for execution in northeastern Kenya. His wife remembered him as a father who deeply loved God and his family.
“Kilonzo loved all of us equally. He spent his married life toiling for me and the children. All our wealth went into giving our children an education, hoping that in the future they would have a good life. He always told me that the best gift we could give to our children was education. He went full throttle to provide what we needed.”
In June, ICC sent help to Kilonzo’s family as a way of sharing Christ’s love with them. ICC was able to supply them with several months’ rent, food, clothing, and emergency finances in case of medical needs.
“As a family, we are so grateful to God for His goodness that we have seen evidenced in so many ways. The love and care that you gave to us are one of the most beautiful expressions of God’s kindness. We therefore deeply appreciate you for your labor of love towards us as a family. Words can’t fully articulate our gratitude; we are so much overwhelmed by this act of love you showed to us when we needed it the most,” said Mrs. Kalenda Kilonzo.