Serving in the Slums of Africa

Name: Keith & Kathy Ham

Current Status: Alumni

Graduation Year: 1986, 1990; 1988

Keith (B.A. '86, M.A. '90) and Kathy (B.A. '88) Ham have spent seven years working with the Christian Missionary Fellowship (CMF) in efforts to help the poverty stricken in the Mathare slum, one of the worst slums in Africa. CMF is a missions agency at work in 100 countries, drawing people into relationship with Christ and his Church.

By partnering with local Kenyans, the Hams utilize a proven program called Community Health Evangelism (CHE). Through the CHE program, the team reaches out to the urban poor through training, microenterprise, education, and other resources.

The Hams began their ministry in Nairobi by establishing a school called the Methare Family Hope Center. The center is a place where children can learn and escape the harsh environment of the slums. It provides education, clothing, and adequate nutrition that these children would not otherwise receive.

The Hams also assist parents of the children by providing training and small funds needed to create their own businesses.

Before working in Nairobi, the Hams worked with the Turkana people in the deserts of northern Kenya. Keith and Kathy have four children, Karissa, Kelsey, Jesse, and Jonathan whom they have raised overseas. In 2002 they spent their furlough in the United States, after which they moved back to Kenya to continue their work in the slums of Nairobi.