Sometimes in the early 2000s, a team of SABS Sisters landed in Nerkwo Parish in Eldoret Catholic Diocese with the sole mission to establish the presence of SABS team in the region. The head of the delegation was then a matriarch figure called Sr. Euphemia.

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It was the dedication of this early team of sisters that was to finally see the establishment of a SABS team in Nerkwo and to the eventual implementation of several projects to empower the local community. 

A sister, Betsy, was attached to the Nerkwo Parish Dispensary with the sole mission to bring medical services to the people. Perhaps she was given the role because of her infectious smile which could easily heal any patient. Sr. Betsy was to later move to the Mater hospital in Nairobi where she continued to offer her invaluable services.

I still remember vividly their first arrival in Nerkwo. It was such an excitement to see them in the community. Sr. Euphemia was a zoologist by training and it was not difficult to place her in the Biology classes. 

The challenge, however, lay in their manner of speaking. The Indian variety of English proved a tough challenge to the native speakers - the students included. The messenger of the hills was forced to play the hallowed role of an interpreter because of his training on the various accented varieties of English. It was an uphill task to tell the folks that 'Hav a yu?' implied 'How are you?' Soon, the students learnt the hard way to listen to matriarch Euphemia who had a great love for Biology. 

It was her warmth and friendship that eased things for everybody. She had a motherly love that touched every heart in Marakwet High School (We used to call the place MHS before they baptized it St. Peter's Marakwet).

To the many SABS Sisters who have served Nerkwo Parish, a big thank you for the many sacrifices you have made to touch the lives of many. Your contribution to mentor students at Immaculate Heart of Mary School is immeasurable. 

Join me in applauding these warriors of faith who have touched the lives of many around Nerkwo.

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