By Govinda prema das
It was in 1973 that Srila prabhupada first laid his Divine feet on this continent. the first place he visited in Africa was Kenya and specifically Nairobi. SrilaPrabhupada stressed to his disciples in Nairobi that the mission of Iskcon in Africa was for the local people, he called it our “real business in Africa”
That is our mission. If we get African devotees, then we are successful. So already some are coming. Now keep them fixed, and they will bring others. Letter to Cyavana — Vrindaban 4 September, 1975
Here in Nairobi our program is going on very nicely. There are TV engagements and a very large meeting is scheduled at the University of Nairobi for tomorrow. Many respectful Hindus are inviting us and I am staying in everyone’s house for four to five days. Most probably our center here in Nairobi will be a strong one, as strong as any of our other centers. Letter to Jayapataka Maharaj-October 05, 1971-
With lots of trials and errors,we finally established a program which is showing tangible results.this year our university outreach program “simple livinghigh thinking” had 650 registered students.it runs twice weekly at the Nairobi centre,and students from various universities attend the classes.the syllabus is based on three of Srila prabhupada books which covers three semesters in 12 months,students are required to sit for exams quarterly.our final exam was held in November and 95 students attended the final exam!
The students are very inspired by the teaching of the Vedic culture,the graduation ceremony was attended by HH Bhakti Narasimha Swami , HG Umapati prabhu, HG Manasi Ganga mataji and other senior devotees.We also established a training centre which enables the students to come and live in a contemporary ashram,where they pay a minimum rent.Every morning and evening the students attend a sanga class and a japa meditation workshop.
By the mercy of Srila Prabhupada in 6months 30 students have become vegetarians, chant, dress up in vaishnava attire and do service in the temple.May the vaishnava community bestow their mercy upon us so that we may remain fixed in the service of Srila Prabhupada.
Your servant
Govinda prema das
Iskcon Nairobi
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