Once arriving at the Kigoma airport you will be greeted by a member of the Joy In The Harvest team, which is usually Mr. Mwenge or another member of the leadership team. If your lucky, you will also be greeted with an amazing display of African singing and worship as you load your luggage into the vehicles and then head off for a short drive to the guest houses.

After a short scenic drive through the heart of Kigoma you will arrive at the location of the guest houses. The property, filled with palm trees that overlooks Lake Tanganyika will bring a calming peace and excitement that you have now arrived at your African home away from home. You will be shown to your guest house and will have a time to unwind and unpack, grab a shower, snack, or a nap. The property is home to 3 American standard guest houses, with very nice bedrooms, bathrooms, living room, and kitchen with refrigerator stocked with goodies.

The property is also home to our Computer School, Radio Station, Community Center, and JOY Administrative Offices. Within walking distance you will find the Kimberly House Feeding Center where 350 poor children are fed 3 times per week and not too far away is the Kigoma destitute camp where we visit, pray for, and encourage lepers and the handicapped.

There will be many opportunities to be a blessing to the African people of Kigoma, Tanzania during the days of your stay. Some of those opportunities include ministry to widows, orphans, handicap, young adults, and of course the poor and needy. Always be prepared to share your name and why you came to Kigoma, and for those that have the desire an encouraging devotion to brighten someone’s day.

The end of the day culminates with the guests all gathering at Lowell and Claudia’s lakeside home to enjoy the sunset, partake of a delicious dinner meal, share stories of the daily adventures, and learn all about Lowell and Claudia’s Missionary adventures spanning over 40 years through entertaining stories told by Lowell himself.

After an evening of food, fun, and fellowship we will mosey back to our guest houses for a well deserved nights rest. Excited we get to do it all again the next day.

~ Observation written by Lee West a recent visitor to Joy In The Harvest, Kigoma Tanzania.