EDUCATION has transcended beyond the walls of the classroom. While its power as a transformative tool remains undiminished, its evolution has presented a dual reality: vast new opportunities alongside options of flexible directions. The essence of education has not changed, but its compounding effect—when applied across disciplines and contexts—has produced outcomes that are both remarkable and far-reaching. Today, being able to use available knowledge is not only a strategic move; it’s a powerful way of applying multiple forms of understanding simultaneously to achieve timely and practical results.

True education embodies a vast range of knowledge, which is tailored to every facet of human endeavor. This knowledge—the very components of education—provides the essential framework for solving countless underlying societal issues. The essence of true education lies in cultivating the ability to identify a challenge, understand the required response, and implement solutions that transform chaos into purposeful, favorable patterns.

History consistently demonstrates that many of humanity’s most pressing problems already have workable solutions. This reality makes it unnecessary to perpetually seek entirely new approaches or attempt to reinvent the wheel. As the saying goes, there is “nothing new under the sun.” The smart way to go forward is to look at the success pathways of others, figure out what worked for them, and then carefully adapt and copy those techniques, which have been shown to make a real difference.

The journey to success, whether beginning from scratch or from a midway point, is invariably defined by time and deliberate action. Moving from one’s present reality to a desired future requires an honest understanding of the current position at any given moment. A lot of the time, we are where we are now because of what we’ve done in the past, and the decisions we make now will affect what happens in the future.

This understanding is very important for African Jews, especially those who live in Sub-Saharan Africa. It is not enough to admire Jewish communities in other parts of the world or hope to mirror their achievements without doing the work first. There is still a big divide between African Jewish communities and those in more developed locations. This gap includes things like economic empowerment, organized community settlements, established synagogues, access to Jewish education, and representation in important aspects of the secular world. There is, undeniably, significant ground to cover.

Nevertheless, it is an optimistic and clear truth that these diaspora communities, which are currently doing well, were formerly weak and unstable. Through sheer determination, they organized, invoked deep reservoirs of knowledge—both sacred and secular—and ultimately steered their collective destiny forward. Their journey from being limited to having an impact is a strong example.

The strategic use of various forms of education for African Jewry must now be channelled into concrete, transformative pillars. This means focusing on certain areas where information is the main driver of long-term progress and self-determination. Let me take you through the following areas, which represent not mere aspirations, but actionable frameworks for building a resilient and prosperous future for many indigenous African Jewish populations.

Education is essential for the training and ordination of African rabbis who can serve, lead, and advocate for their communities. In Judaism, having a rabbi is required in every community, as their role as spiritual leader is a fundamental part. Unfortunately, most African Jewish communities rely on visiting rabbis or online external guidance, which, while helpful, cannot fully replace locally grounded face-to-face leadership and guidance. Through structured rabbinic education— combining Torah study, halachic training, pastoral care, and community administration— African Jews can raise rabbis who understand both Jewish law and the lived realities of their people. Education ensures that leadership is not only learned but also sustained from within.

When African rabbis are educated and ordained, they become an important part of the community and its history. They ultimately fill in the gap of what has been an endless vacuum over a couple of decades. Just like other professions, trained rabbis are equipped to teach, resolve religious questions, guide youth, and engage government and international Jewish institutions with confidence. It’s a position that requires maximum community service. and the ability to help others. Additionally, these leaders command authority and safeguard authenticity by preserving traditions and adapting them responsibly to local and modern contexts. Education gives rabbis the tools they need to speak up for the needs of their communities, build collaborations, and inspire togetherness. The result is a strong foundation for spiritual growth and institutional stability in African Jewish communities. All of these are not rocket science, but a path many have followed and many are still following.

Understanding the importance of local rabbis should lead to increased efforts to identify ways to direct individuals toward this goal. Having an African-born and ordained rabbi is far more than having a religious functionary; he or she is not only a spiritual head but also a pivotal community architect and advocate. Another crucial point is the fact that such leaders can represent their communities with authority in global Jewish dialogues, make pleas to secure essential resources, and guide congregants with a resonant, authentic voice. By adapting the successful models of rabbinic training from the global diaspora to local realities, we ensure spiritual guidance is both deeply rooted and forward-looking. This helps us become less dependent on outside leaders and builds a strong, self-sufficient religious infrastructure that can support Jewish identity for generations to come.

In the field of agriculture, it is crucial to apply both ancient and modern wisdom. This is because food security has remained a critical concern for many African Jewish communities, especially those in rural settlements. Our agricultural heritage, embodied in laws like the sabbatical year (Shmita) and historical farming practices, provides a timeless framework for sustainable land stewardship. Teaching our communities these ideas along with modern agro-science gives us a powerful set of tools.

Through learning modern farming techniques—such as crop rotation, soil improvement, irrigation systems, and climate smart practices—communities can increase yields and reduce vulnerability to weather changes. Agricultural education transforms farming from a survival-based activity into a structured and productive system capable of feeding families and supporting economic independence.

Beyond the field, education unlocks access to technology and capital. Training community members to draft compelling grant proposals can secure funding. With proper training, communities can adopt technologies such as solar-powered irrigation and water management systems. When knowledge, technology, and planning are combined, food security becomes achievable, dignified, and scalable, ensuring long-term resilience for African Jewish households.

These results can be seen in the ongoing food security grants to members affiliated with the Sub-Saharan African Jewish Alliance, SAJA. This association, formed over three years ago, was established to unite African Jewry and assist in rebuilding their communities. In an unprecedented move, the organization has been able to secure agricultural grants for more than 31 communities across 10 countries. To get the grants, the communities had to join SAJA for free and write a proposal explaining what project they would do with the money, showing their plans and how they would manage the project until the harvest and its finances.

Economic development and participation in key sectors is a new mentality that needs to be grown with everything in our arsenals. All through history, Jewish communities across the world have used education to identify practical opportunities and went ahead to propose solution in adequate measures. By acquiring special knowledge in business, finance, and management, they positioned themselves in sectors that drive nationwide economic growth. Education enabled them to match community needs with market solutions, creating wealth not only for individuals but also for communal institutions such as schools, synagogues, tech companies, and welfare programs.

We must groom a generation that understands not only how to run a business but also how to identify and fill crucial gaps in the marketplace, transforming community needs into viable, scalable enterprises. Jewish communities in Africa can draw important lessons from the pages of history. While many communities remain in rural areas, education can prepare individuals to participate in urban economies and national markets. Learning entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and vocational skills creates pathways into commerce, manufacturing, and service industries. Strategic relocation or economic engagement in capital cities allows communities to generate sustainable income, reduce poverty, and fund long-term development initiatives.

It is undisputed that education facilitates a necessary shift from rural subsistence to urban economic participation. Through vocational training, financial education programs, and networking mentorship, community members can fulfil long dreams of relocating to capital cities and commercial hubs. Here, they can establish businesses, engage in large-scale commerce, and integrate into the formal economy. Emulating the global Jewish model of creating mutual-aid loan funds (gemachim) and robust business networks can provide the essential seed capital and mentorship to launch more endeavors, creating a virtuous cycle of reinvestment and communal uplift.

Quality education must be inclusive, reaching men and women, children and adults alike. To make sure that both our boys and girls grow up to be knowledgeable Jews and exemplary citizens, we need to push for and build great Jewish day schools that offer a strong dual curriculum, with both secular academic excellence and deep religious study. These schools are the incubators for future professionals, thinkers, and community leaders.

Adult education is just as important. Many community members were denied formal schooling due to historical and economic constraints. Literacy programs, vocational training, and continuing education help adults gain confidence and participate more fully in economic, religious, and civic life. When education lasts a lifetime, communities gain more leaders, have less dependence, and have a sense of progress that lifts up every generation.

This dual-focused educational investment is the engine for penetrating and influencing key societal sectors. A young lady who has a good background in law and is guided by her Jewish principles can do great work while working for her community from inside powerful organizations. Educated community members can also leverage international opportunities, studying and working abroad to acquire skills and resources that they can repatriate. The idea is to establish a virtuous cycle in which education leads to opportunity, which then leads to more investment in the community’s intellectual and institutional capital.

Technology runs the modern world, and education is the key to being able to take part in it in a meaningful way. Imagine young African Jewish children learning coding, digital design, or problem-solving skills and developing a mobile application valued at over five million dollars? Such achievements are already happening globally. Education makes it possible for people to be creative, converting their curiosity into solutions that have actual effects on the economy and society. The capital and expertise generated from such a venture could revolutionize community infrastructure, fund schools, rebuild the welfare system, and support several Jewish-owned startups.

The possibilities go far beyond computer apps to include innovations in renewable energy, medical diagnostics, or fintech tailored primarily to the African continent. By leveraging online learning platforms, coding boot camps, and global tech networks, we can position our youth at the forefront of the digital economy. A single major success story might be a compelling example that motivates others and attracts funding support. Furthermore, technology education enables the global marketing of African Jewish creativity—whether through a world-best-selling digital novel, an online archive of unique traditions, a blockbuster documentary, or a consulting firm solving tech problems. These ventures share our voice with the world while creating sustainable revenue streams for communal rebuilding.

In conclusion, as has been emphasized throughout this article, almost nothing entirely new is being created on the surface of the earth today. Most new ideas, discoveries, and solutions that change the world don’t come out of nowhere. Instead, they come from carefully putting together ideas that are already out there, knowledge that has been tested, and real-world experience.

This reality places a tremendous responsibility on those called to leadership. It should be known that transformation—whether social, economic, or spiritual—does not happen by chance. It is driven by informed decisions. Leaders who understand how to connect ideas, interpret knowledge, and apply learning strategically are far better positioned to guide their communities toward progress.

A leader who lacks the capacity to combine existing ideas, resources, and opportunities may unintentionally hinder the growth of their community. Leadership is not defined solely by expertise in one area or by maintaining what already exists. True leadership lies in vision—the ability to look inward, to assess available tools, and to coordinate people and knowledge toward practical solutions. When leaders recognize where educational resources exist, how knowledge can be accessed, and how ideas can be applied locally, they place the future firmly within their hands.

Idealy, shaping tomorrow is a conscious act. It is the result of deliberate choices made today—choices guided by learning, insight, and responsibility. Through education, communities gain not only skills but also agency. They gain the power to decide, to direct their development, and to shape a future that is sustainable, dignified, and firmly grounded in both heritage and possibility.

The post Shaping The Future Through The Power Of Education. first appeared on African Jewish Voices.

[Building strong Jewish foundations through dedicated learning, tradition, and community]

THE absence of a standard Jewish school, which would facilitate a comprehensive education rooted in Jewish values, has been felt for decades by the Nigerian Jewish communities. Many Jewish children attend secular schools where they face assimilation, segregation, and other challenges arising from their beliefs. As Judaism continues to thrive in Nigeria, with estimates of practicing Jews ranging between 6,000 and 10,000 and over 100 synagogues across 10 states and four regions, the need for children to attain standard Jewish education has only intensified.

Gihon Eden Academy, founded by Shlomo Yaakov, came just in time to bridge the gap and ensure access to Jewish education in Nigeria. The Eden Academy, currently in its pilot phase, is on track to be one of the first Jewish schools in the country, built upon years of Torah teaching. It is projected that by 2035, it will have grown into an accredited educational institution serving both primary and secondary school children.

According to its roadmap, the school will provide comprehensive Jewish education with a curriculum that combines secular subjects like math, science, history, and literature and covers all the basic education requirements. Compared to other existing Jewish-owned schools, this one focuses on teaching Jewish studies, such as the Torah, Talmud, and Hebrew language, aiming to provide students with a strong foundation in Jewish heritage, traditions, and values, while also preparing them for academic success and personal growth.

Gihon Eden Academy, co-tutored by Immanuel Ben Immanuel and Fidelia Agoha, began as a Hebrew class aimed at children and new members of the Gihon Hebrew Synagogue in Abuja, particularly those transitioning back to Judaism from Christianity. People warmly welcomed the classes as a laudable initiative that promoted effortless Hebrew language learning. It has since transformed from merely a Hebrew class, as the curriculum has broadened to encompass additional Jewish studies. The academy offers a beginner’s syllabus aimed at familiarizing students with the fundamental beliefs, practices, and traditions of the Jewish faith. Assisting students in cultivating a deeper understanding and respect for the Jewish community.

The syllabus covers a range of topics, which includes an introduction to Judaism, comprising topics like what is Judaism, its core beliefs, and its historical context. Another topic in the curriculum is the study of Jewish Scriptures like the Torah, Tanakh, and Rabbinic literature. The curriculum then discusses the study of key Jewish holidays, such as the High Holidays, Shabbat, Pesach, and other major and minor festivals. Going deeper, the curriculum covers Jewish practices like prayer, Jewish halachot, and life cycle events. It also has Jewish Life and Identity, which includes culture, tradition, and values. The curriculum also expanded to include the Holocaust, helping children understand the history and significance of the Holocaust, which is one of the most significant events in the history of Jews.

Just as it is widely accepted that life comprises both old and new, the academy’s curriculum includes a course on the study of modern Judaism. In this course, students learn about the various movements within Judaism, its diverse expressions, and the different sects making up global Judaism’s composition. In addition, the course outline has lessons on the Jewish calendar, conversion, and the State of Israel. Generally, the syllabus is designed to inspire and educate both beginners and practicing Jews looking to deepen their knowledge in their practice of Judaism.

Before Gihon Eden Academy came into existence, learning the Hebrew language as well as other Jewish studies used to be very challenging due to limited guidance and availability of organized resources that would enhance and facilitate a seamless Jewish learning experience. Jewish learning was only attainable through individual effort. In fact, only the majority of people who were called up to pray, known as chazans, led the prayers and mastered how to read Ivrit. Many others who did not have siddurim found it difficult to keep up with the pace of the learning or continued practice to become perfect.

Shlomo Yaakov, who was born into Judaism, experienced firsthand the early struggles and complexities of practicing Judaism in a country where Judaism is not recognized; he struggled to obtain Jewish education as a child. However, sometime around 2015, he had the opportunity to study under Rabbi Gershom Sizomu, the Chief Rabbi of the Abayudaya community in Uganda. This experience of learning directly under a rabbi for the first time was significant, especially since there was no rabbi in his home country of Nigeria. No doubt, the experience was a turning point for him, and therefore the Gihon Academy was founded to change the narrative and make Jewish learning accessible to his community and others.

The model of the academy operates as both a physical and online class, making it possible for interested students from anywhere in Nigeria to obtain quality Jewish education. The online classes are usually accessible via WhatsApp and scheduled Zoom meetings with recorded classes that are available upon request. Its WhatsApp community is made up of different WhatsApp lecture groups tailored to the needs of students at all levels. Students who enrolled in the online classes are provided with mentorship programs, including counselling and seminars that are designed to ensure that students understand what they are taught and learn to apply it in their daily lives.

The offline and online models provide children with the opportunity to learn both at the synagogue and from their homes or while on the go. At the initial stage, the Gihon Hebrew Synagogue usually hosts these classes every Sunday morning after Shacharit prayers. Some of the students, including mothers who reside far away, would sleep over in the synagogue guest room to attend morning classes before returning home to their families. Additionally, classes are held on one day during the week; however, due to the recent increase in transportation expenses following the government’s removal of petroleum subsidies, online technology has to be leveraged.

Today, students who are members of the WhatsApp community have the opportunity to interact with their teachers through voice chat and text. This setup offers flexibility, helping them to ask questions on issues ranging from lectures to real-life experiences. It also helps them get answers to their questions in real time, giving other students the ability to contribute to questions asked and learn from others’ experiences. At the conclusion of each week of online lessons, students meet in the synagogue on Shabbat during the break period to engage in one-on-one discussions with their teachers, enhancing both their online and in-person learning experiences.

Currently, there are 60 students enrolled in the Gihon Eden Academy. The synagogue’s physical classes have 40 students, while 20 from other parts of Abuja are in the virtual program. Since its inception, about six sets of students have successfully graduated, and most of them celebrated their Bar and Bat Mitzvahs as students.

Peniel Immanuel is one of the most recent; he celebrated his bar mitzvah on November the 6th in the synagogue. He also emerged as the overall top winner during a quiz competition. A public event held during Simchat Torah turned into a competitive three-way race at the final rounds, ultimately earning him a school-term scholarship from several sponsors. One would often wonder the reason the students of the Gihon Eden Academy perform exceptionally well in Jewish educational competitions and quizzes in the country. The answer lies in their strong foundation in Jewish education and the incorporation of entertaining methods into the learning process.

As far back as 2019, during the inaugural National Jewish Youth seminar, held in the eastern part of the country, the Gihon children in attendance wowed the gathering with their group performance. And in a recent outing, during the 2025 Camp Sarah program held in Abuja, Nigeria, the young stars took center stage again. Participants during a quiz competition included children from the host synagogue at Tikvat Synagogue and children from synagogues across the country in attendance. Once again, the children from Gihon Eden Academy excelled due to their deep understanding of Jewish education and readiness, which they attribute to their unique curriculum and class-learning style.

To support the academy’s internet connectivity, it received a donation of an MTN 4G router for internet connectivity from the Avraham Ben Avraham Foundation (ABAF). The internet helps to get the synagogue WIFI-connected, making it possible for members with a smartphone to connect to the internet. It has also helped to power laptops that tutors use to teach students during live sessions in weekday classes. The ABA Foundation recently replaced a smaller and worn-out whiteboard in the shul that had been in use for over a decade. It has been a very useful addition for both the synagogue and for teaching and learning purposes. Instructors can write short lectures or a Torah quiz on the board before Shabbat, and students will learn or discuss it during Shabbat classes since writing on Shabbat is not allowed.

In addition, the ABAF provides data bundles periodically to support Zoom learning in the academy. However, apart from home support coming from the synagogue management, the academy has also attracted the interest of Elder Yatov Ben Israel. After his return from South Africa, where he went for an important meeting with the Maccabi South African Union, he visited the Gihon Hebrew Synagogue before the end of November. There, he donated several books on behalf of the IPJD (Initiative for Progressive Judaism Development), which were handed over to Shlomo to enrich the library of the Gihon Eden Academy. Yatov, although a member of another synagogue in Abuja, is a longtime friend of Gihon and supports them as a sister synagogue.

Support of this nature continues to help position the academy as a Torah-learning hub, not just for younger children but also for those returning to Judaism and others interested in learning Jewish halachot and the Hebrew language. Think of a Torah-learning hub as a digital version of a rabbi, a substitute at this point, bridging the gap of a rabbi’s absence in the country, ready to teach, motivate, uplift and build the community in the ways of the Torah. The beginners’ classes of the academy are suitable for new returnees who often struggle to adapt in their early stages due to their former Christian-related practices, which they have known since childhood.

Feedback from several students highlights the impact of months of dedicated learning. Sarah, 13, shared, “I am thrilled to be part of this academy, which has helped me learn how to live as an observant Jew and made me proud to tell my friends in school about Judaism.” Kayim noted that the lessons have deepened his understanding of what it means to be a Jew while also improving his Hebrew reading skills. Yehuda, one of the returnees, said the classes have greatly helped his children grow in their knowledge of Judaism. In his words: “Since my children started taking classes with Gihon Eden Academy, they have learned a lot. And one significant thing is that the classes are free. I am glad they are part of it, and I commend the tutors for their sacrifices.”

Currently, the academy relies entirely on donations to sustain its mission of providing Torah-based education throughout each term. Through the dedicated efforts of its management and tutors—who serve not on payroll but as committed volunteers—the academy functions typically like a formal school. It includes all essential academic components: quizzes, assignments, presentations, projects, and examinations that assess each student’s progress and promote them to higher classes.

In traditional Jewish education, children are gradually introduced to core literature like the Mishnah, the Talmud, and subsequently the Shulchan Aruch, building a foundation for lifelong learning and observant Jewish living. But this important foundation has often been missing in Nigeria, where there has long been a lack of indigenous rabbis and structured Torah schools. Gihon Eden Academy is specifically addressing this exact need. The academy is planting the seeds for a future generation of African Jews who may one day become scholars, teachers, and rabbis, who would strengthen and shape the future of the country’s Jewry for decades to come.

The post Where Young Jews Grow: Inside Nigeria’s Flourishing Torah Academy. first appeared on African Jewish Voices.

Hebrew education in Nigeria remains a developing field, despite the central importance of the language in Jewish religious and cultural life. Chazanim, who read well, generally conduct prayer services at a fast reading pace, but many people in the community, especially young people and older people, still have trouble reading. They also have trouble with other parts of learning Hebrew, like writing and understanding (saying and hearing) Ivrit. In most communities, a random statistic will show that most people who learned Hebrew learned it informally from friends or family members, with limited access to structured learning materials.

But recently, a couple of learning initiatives have emerged to address this gap. One initiative is that of the Gihon Eden Academy, which, along with other synagogue-based study classes and mini-schools, is working to teach Hebrew to kids and teens in a structured way. These programs aim not only to teach language skills but also to keep students motivated and connected to Jewish learning. After quite some years of consistency, Gihon Eden, while maintaining an in-class feature in Abuja, has also leveraged the internet to reach more students anywhere they are in the country. Their work has brought to light the need for textbooks and educational resources across Nigerian Jewish communities to boost the learning rate.

A significant contribution to this effort has come from Joburg Jewish Mommies (JJM), a women’s group based in Johannesburg, South Africa. They appear to be one of the biggest women’s associations, with a dedicated Facebook group membership of over 10,000 participants. The group mobilized the donation of Hebrew learning materials to Jewish communities in Nigeria, recognizing the importance of supporting emerging and thriving centers of Jewish education across the continent. Their actions to heed this clarion call reflect a growing sense of responsibility and solidarity between Jewish communities in Southern and West Africa.

The journey of the donated books to their destination, Nigeria, took time and persistence. Individuals from South Africa, including Chaya Mokone, initially transported some materials in small batches. However, logistical challenges left a significant number of Judaica books stranded for an extended period. The delay was more than 3 years.

Through coordinated efforts involving the Initiative for Progressive Judaism Development (IPJD), the Sub-Saharan African Jewish Alliance (SAJA), SAJA Nigeria, and the Avraham Ben Avraham Foundation (ABAF), the remaining shipment was finally airlifted to Nigeria. ABAF played a key role in planning the national distribution of the materials, ensuring that they reached communities across the country.

The distribution process itself was notable for its organization and accessibility. Courier costs were mostly covered by IPJD, with the remainder covered by ABAF, and beneficiaries were not required to pay for the books. Recipients also do not need to travel out of their state; they only need to get to the main bus terminal in their state capital to collect their packages. In total, five learning centers and 31 congregations in all received materials, with priority given to communities running Hebrew education programs.

In addition to Hebrew textbooks and dictionaries, the shipment included other essential Judaica, such as Haggadot for Pesach, Siddurim, Tanach, Festival prayer books, and Chumash volumes, Jewish literature, and assorted simcha cards, including laminated cards printed with Birkat Hamazon. This wide range of materials ensured that both educational and liturgical needs were addressed across the numerous communities that benefited from the generous offer of the JJM network.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the distribution was its reach. The distribution included several locations that had never received educational or religious materials before. Among them was a remote congregation in Enugu State in Eastern Nigeria, whose representative traveled to the state capital to collect the package, which came alongside the package of another shul in the city center. After receiving the books, he shared a message of gratitude on Facebook under the name Dubem Chukwu, writing:

“On behalf of myself and all members of Igbo Jews, especially those at the Tent of the Igbos, I wish to convey our heartfelt gratitude to the Jews of South Africa and especially to you, our big sister, for the wonderful gift of books donated to us. We are overjoyed, and may the joy and blessings you brought to us be multiplied to you in good times. Toda rabah.”

This message reflects the emotional and educational impact of the donation in communities that have long lacked access to Jewish learning resources. The same goes for the Beth Harachman Community in Akwa Ibom, whose growing number is faced with a lack of praying material and got some pieces in this shipment. Together with the Brachot Yeshiva, a primary and secondary school run by the synagogue management, they expressed their profound gratitude to the South African donors and everyone whose input and support helped make this dream a reality.

Special appreciation has been expressed to Prof. Francis Duru, Caroline Rozentvaig, Chaya Rut Mokone, and the members of Joburg Jewish Mommies, as well as to Kulanu‘s logistic support that helped make the project realize its goals. Their combined efforts demonstrate how grassroots initiatives, when paired with institutional coordination, can produce meaningful change across borders. This collaboration is just the beginning, and further efforts will be made to sustain this pattern, ensuring that the broad intentions are met.

While this educational project was unfolding in Johannesburg back in August, parallel discussions were taking place about strengthening Jewish continental cooperation through sports and youth engagement. This discussion involved representatives from Maccabi Nigeria and their counterparts in South Africa. These conversations have since evolved into plans for the formation of a Maccabi African Confederation, now resulting in a pilot Pan-African Maccabi Tournament scheduled to take place in Nigeria during Pesach. The overlap between educational support and athletic collaboration highlights a broader vision of African Jewish development rooted in learning, unity, and no doubt other areas of cooperation waiting to be explored between the two countries.

Looking ahead, continued cooperation between Jewish communities in Southern and West Africa will be essential. South Africa’s long-established Jewish institutions provide excellent examples of community settings, education systems, kosher infrastructure, and rabbinic leadership. This is something many communities across Sub-Saharan Africa want to achieve: a setup of a typical community settlement pattern with Jews living side by side. At the same time, Nigerian Jewish communities will continue to aspire to grow in commitment and capacity, creating opportunities for partnership that can strengthen both regions.

The donation of Hebrew and Judaica books by Joburg Jewish Mommies is more than a charitable act; it represents an investment in the future of Jewish life in Nigeria. By placing learning materials into the hands of children and educators, the move helps build a foundation for sustained Hebrew literacy, religious practice, and communal continuity. As these connections deepen, they point toward a future in which communities, irrespective of their location in Africa, stand not in isolation, but in active collaboration across the continent.

The post Joburg Jewish Mommies Aid Hebrew Learning Across Communities in Nigeria. first appeared on African Jewish Voices.

The recent announcement that the International Society for the Study of African Jewry (ISSAJ) will no longer hold its 2025 conference at Makerere University in Kampala, Uganda’s capital, has stirred a range of emotions within the African Jewish community due to the decision to relocate the event outside the continent. This much-anticipated conference, which had been scheduled for October 28–30, was expected to mark yet another defining moment in the history of African Jewry— a moment when the continent itself host scholars, rabbis, and thinkers from around the world to discuss Africa’s Jewish story on its soil.

Since its founding in 2010, ISSAJ has grown into a leading academic platform dedicated to exploring and documenting the lives of Jews in Africa and the African diaspora. It brings together intellectuals, students, and advocates from across Africa, Europe, Israel, and the Americas to explore the rich and diverse expressions of Judaism in Africa. One of its goals is to make Jewish life in Sub-Saharan Africa, from Uganda to Nigeria, Zimbabwe to Ghana, and South Africa to Cameroon, more visible in both academic and community settings. Over the years, ISSAJ’s work has helped dispel misconception regarding African Jews, encouraged people from all over the world to work together, and made sure that Africa’s Jewish narratives are documented and preserved. Through research, conferences, and international collaboration, it has played a pivotal role in connecting African Jewish communities to the broader Jewish world.

The Kampala conference was expected to be a major milestone: the first of its kind in the pearl of Africa. Especially in a country that holds a unique place in modern African Jewish history. Communities, notably in Eastern Mbale, are some of the fastest-growing Jewish communities on the continent. They combine a strong dedication to Judaism with a lively African culture. The conference in Uganda was meant to celebrate this growing visibility and to open dialogue on how African Jews are shaping their future within the global Jewish family. However, the recent update from the ISSAJ website confirmed that the event will now be relocated to Paris, France, following concerns raised about security conditions in Kampala. While the reasons may be understandable, the decision has left many Jews in the region feeling disappointed.

“It is disappointing that the conference won’t be happening in Uganda anymore,” said Sarah Nakintu, vice president of the Sub-Saharan African Jewish Alliance (SAJA) and founder of the Shalom Women Development Network (SWODN). “We were looking forward to welcoming the world to see who we are, our history, and how far African Jewry has come. I’m not sure many of us will be privileged to make it to France for the conference.”

The theme of the 2025 ISSAJ Conference had centered on the future of African Jewry. It seeks to explore cultural preservation, modern identity, and global inclusion. If it had been held in Uganda, African participants would have been able to meet visiting researchers in person, form collaborations, and share experiences that could help their communities. Many saw it as an opportunity to correct long-standing misconceptions and demonstrate the growing significance of Africa in global Jewry.

Judaism in Sub-Saharan Africa has been steadily growing in both numbers and confidence across the continent. New communities have emerged in Cote d’Ivoire, Angola, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe. Despite significant odds, many have established synagogues, yeshivot, and Hebrew schools. People in areas like Ghana and Kenya are reconnecting with old family traditions that link them to Judaism, while others are choosing to follow Jewish practices as a genuine spiritual path. In fact, moving across all regions of the continent, one will certainly find an enclave with observant Jews at a corner, and the average population is growing by the year.

Yet for all this growth and all that has been unfolding, the African Jewish experience remains under-documented and under-studied. That is the gap ISSAJ continues to fill. Through its conferences, publications, and research collaborations, the organization is helping scholars and community members alike build a clearer, evidence-based understanding of African Jewish life. Through its tremendous effort all these years, it has continued to create a bridge between the academic world and the lives of African Jews.

A conference in Kampala would have no doubt been a showcase of Africa’s Jewish vitality— and a proud statement that the study of African Jewry belongs not only in books and conferences abroad, but within Africa itself. Still, even as the event moves to Paris, African Jews remain hopeful that their voices will continue to be represented in the global discussion. Some opinions have been made, and there is also growing conversation about establishing more future African-led academic and cultural forums that continue the mission ISSAJ embodies— even within Africa.

While the move to Paris has been justified as a matter of safety and logistics, the emotional and symbolic loss for African Jewry is deeply felt. But ultimately, even though the venue may have changed, the mission remains: to study, record, and celebrate the Jewish lifestyles in Africa and by Africans. In the words of one East African Jewish leader who had hoped to attend the conference, “Whether in Kampala or Paris, the story of African Jewry must continue to be told— not as a footnote, but as a vital chapter in the living history of the Jewish people.”

The post From Kampala to Paris: Strengthening the Study of African Jewry. first appeared on African Jewish Voices.

All Photo Credit: Camp Sarah

The third edition of Camp Sarah, hosted once more in Abuja, Nigeria, was truly an astounding achievement. For 3 years and still going strong, it resembles fine wine that grows richer with each passing day. This year’s camp commenced on August 11 and concluded on August 22, 2025. On a sunny Monday morning, filled with enthusiasm and a desire for meaningful Jewish learning and adventure, the campers, volunteers, and camp management convened at Tikvat Israel Synagogue in Kubwa Abuja to go live with the third Jewish summer camp outing in the country. 

Since Jewish camping arrived in Nigeria with the opening of camp Sarah in 2023, the camp has consistently improved its activities and programs, as well as its leadership and management strategies. This unique camp for younger children and teenagers is known for providing a blend of Jewish learning, morals, and fun for its campers. Over the years, it has increased its capacity to conducively host over 70 children and young adults, which is quite a leap, increasing its capacity by over fifty percent within three years.

This year, more than 78 children and young adults aged 4–16 registered across four Edots (age groups) for the August camping, with over 80 percent being returning participants from the first and second camps. Six international volunteers attended the camp, fostering diversity, building friendships across borders, and promoting unity and alignment with the global Jewish community. A counselor-in-training (CIT) program was introduced for the first time at Camp Sarah, catering to 14 youths aged 17–19. The CITs resided at Tikvat Israel, engaging in a program that emphasized leadership skills, preparing them to become future counselors.

Each day of camp was centered on a core Jewish value that guided the activities and learning. The ten themes emphasized throughout the program were:

1. Shalom – Peace
2. Ve’ahavta et re’echa camocha – Love your neighbor as yourself
3. Ahdut – Unity
4. Shmirat halashon – Guarding one’s speech (mindfulness in the use of words)
5. Shabbat
6. Emunah – Faith
7. Tsedakah – Charity/Justice
8. Teshuva – Repentance/Responsiveness
9. Tikkun Olam – Repairing the world
10. Hakarat hatov – Gratitude/Recognizing the good

Daily Camp Structure:
The daily schedule was carefully organized to reflect and reinforce these values through a balanced mix of spiritual, educational, and recreational activities:

• Morning Tefillah – A joyous prayer service enhanced by music
• Yahadut – Jewish learning sessions held within each edah (age group)
• Group Activities – Collaborative programs conducted by edah
• Lunch

• Elective Activities – Campers selected from a range of options including music, dance, arts and crafts, sports, games, yoga, creative writing, and tallit making

Closing Circle – The entire camp community gathered together, with groups often presenting songs, plays, or other creative work developed during the day

Before the start of the annual summer camp, the camp management organized a leadership training for counselors, which took place from August 6 to August 8, 2025, aimed at enhancing the quality of programs. The counselors hailed from various states across Nigeria. The host venue, Tikvat Israel Synagogue, showcased a fresh appearance during the camping. In a conversation with Kadmiel, one of the counselors, he revealed that Camp Sarah sponsored the repainting of the synagogue and installed synthetic grass on the floors to create a safe and welcoming environment for the campers.

This year’s camp featured a standout moment with the introduction of a football match, bringing a fresh element to the program. This innovative introduction offered a special enjoyment out of the camp walls as Maccabi FC Nigeria takes part in Camp Sarah 2025 activities. Solomon ben Yakov, the coordinator of the Eden Class at Gihon Hebrew Synagogue stated that the camping was a giant success.

A football match was incorporated into the camping activities, resulting in a highly enjoyable experience for the campers. This will be the first time a football match is introduced to the camping activities. The football match between Maccabi Football Club of Nigeria and Legacy FC enriched the camping experience, with the best part being a 2:1 historic victory.

The camp was characterized by its international flavor, comprising both Africans and non-Africans. Six international volunteers took part in the program, which promoted diversity. Rabbi Gershom Sizomu from Uganda was invited to attend the camp, and his presence significantly influenced the campers, who freely shared their experiences during the event. In a phone conversation with Debbie Isser, the director of Camp Sarah, she highlighted the significant benefits of having a rabbi at the camp, particularly in the realm of teaching.

“We were very fortunate to have Rabbi Gershom Sizomu from the Ugandan Jewish community serve as our resident rabbi, where he taught Yahadut sessions to all of the Edot, building on daily themes. He is a wonderful teacher, and his presence was a real highlight for everyone.”

Rabbi Gershom, the first ordained rabbi in Uganda, is currently the spiritual leader at the Stern Synagogue in Mbale, Eastern Uganda. Gershom enjoyed the children’s camp so much that he would like to establish a branch of Camp Sarah in his community in Uganda and promote counselor exchanges with Nigeria. During his farewell speech on the closing day, he affirmed, “We are working on it, and pending funding, we plan to hold a camp in Uganda in January.”

Kaim Ben Mikael, a camper and student of the Eden Hebrew Class, shared his experiences learning from the rabbi. Thereafter, he spoke about personal improvement after he was inducted into the Counselor in Training (CIT) category, among many others.

“We learned about Kashrut and Tikun Olam from Rabbi Gershom. His presence boosted our spiritual life throughout the camp. This year’s Camp Sarah was a wonderful experience for me as a Counsellor in Training. I learned about love, impacting Torah values on young ones so that they will grow to love the Torah, and being kind and helping young people. I learned teamwork, among other things, so as to achieve success. Camp Sarah 2025 was fun and impactful to me.” 

In addition to its core programs, Camp Sarah also provides opportunities for leadership development and training. The camp’s counselors-in-training program, for example, allows young adults to develop their leadership skills and gain hands-on experience in counseling and mentoring. The dedication and hard work of Camp Sarah’s organizers, counselors, and volunteers contribute to its success. Their commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive environment has made a lasting impact on the campers. One camper, Sarah bat Sarah, noted, “Camp Sarah is more than just a summer camp—it’s a community, a family.” Camp Sarah’s programs will continue to play a vital role in shaping the lives of Jewish youth in Nigeria. With its unique blend of Jewish learning, morals, and fun, Camp Sarah has established itself as an exemplary model of innovative and Jewish education.

Each camping expedition presents its own unique characteristics, whether they are completely new or simply modifications from earlier editions. This year, we can observe that, alongside changes in learning instruction patterns, there has been an increase in the number of participants and a facelift of the venue. Other outstanding features worth mentioning: besides the members of the Maccabi Football Club making a debut in the camp activities, there was a group hiking up a rocky mountain standing over 600 feet, a distance of more than a 45-minute walk from the Synagogue to the mountain peak. Furthermore, the last day in camp was designated a cultural day, which saw campers display different cultural attire, showing the rich and diverse cultural heritage of Nigeria, and traditional music was played to mark the end of another Jewish campaign.

In conclusion, the summer camp was a resounding success; it was marked by innovation, growth, and a deep commitment to Jewish values and principles. As the program continues to expand and improve, it is clear that Camp Sarah will remain a beloved and transformative experience for generations of Jewish youth to come. Camp Sarah, with its strong leadership, dedicated staff, and passionate community, is poised to make an even greater impact in the years to come. Bridging borders, widening horizons, and blending Jewish learning with leisure.

The post Camp Sarah 2025: A Third Summer of Jewish Learning and Fun. first appeared on African Jewish Voices.

A trip to Ardent Hebrew Academy in Eastern Nigeria.

One of my most exciting experiences is traveling to Abia State to observe Sabbath and witness how solar electricity is powering a synagogue and Hebrew learning effort for children. A week before Purim, I set out from my location in Ogwashi-Uku to visit Beth Chesed synagogue in Aba, the capital of the state, arriving there by 5:10 on Friday evening. I have been to the state a few times, but I have never been to this particular synagogue. However, I successfully navigated to the synagogue with the assistance of the provided instructions.

David, the chief chazan, welcomed me and took me to the visitor room, which was well prepared, arranged, and put together. With a sense of excitement and comfort, I inquired what time the erev Shabbat service commences, to which he responded that everything for Shabbat preparation is ready and prayers should begin a few minutes after the candle lighting. Indeed, everywhere around was immaculately clean and well-organized, ready to welcome Shabbat.

I wanted to see inside the synagogue since I was curious about it, and I was astonished to find the leader, who identified himself as Yahuderek, already inside. He had already dressed in a long robe for Shabbat and was meditating when I interrupted him with my presence. We greeted each other, and he extended his warmest welcome to me, stating that members of the Knesset would be arriving in a short while. The area was typically semi-urban, with some of their members living around the vicinity.

At the exact moment, some minutes before the time of Sabbath candle lighting, members gathered. The members sang various songs in both Hebrew and English to uplift their spirits as we prepared to welcome Shabbat. The congregation was full, with everyone, including the chazan, ready. As soon as the time arrived, one of the women lit the Sabbath candle and recited the blessing, receiving a melodic “amen” from the congregation. In a high-spirited mood, the Kabbalat Shabbat prayers echoed around the space as both congregations matched the energy of the leading chazan.

By the time we got to Aleinu, there seemed to be a complete blackout outside, but we had solar-powered bulbs lighting up the synagogue. Everyone’s faces were bright, looking cheerful as we went straight to kiddush. The challah was fantastic, baked by Yehudit, the wife of the leader, whom I had prayed next to and was just beginning to learn more about and her amazing contributions to the community.

Just imagine how difficult it was when the synagogue had no solar light as an alternative, especially since public electricity in the area has been unreliable for several years. I was responding to a question David asked me at the end of Brikat Hamazon about how I felt about the evening prayers. In response, it was an energetic and brightly lit evening service, thanks to the solar bulbs’ illumination. However, he informed me that the lights would go out by 10 PM, which caused the prayers to be conducted quickly and on time, followed by kiddush and the Shabbat meal; he mentioned that he would explain everything in detail after Shabbat.

Early in the morning, everyone woke up, freshened up, and got ready for Shabbat Shacharit, which began at 7. We prayed fervently until the Torah service, during which we read the parshat using a Khumash since there was no Sefer Torah. Then, the leader of the synagogue delivered a beautiful dvar Torah on the reading, concluding by encouraging everyone to uphold the words of the Torah as guidelines for living Jewishly, emphasizing that we should follow Judaism as a way of life rather than just a religion.

It was indeed another lively and vibrant Shabbat service for me, and there was something special about them in their deep connection with the Jewish tradition, spiritual consciousness, and vibrant young population. While the chazan led the prayers from a table at the left corner in front, the male congregation occupied the front row, with the women sitting at the rear, all facing the same direction. In the course of the prayers, a young boy recited some of the prayers seated next to the chazan, who I later found out was one of the students of the Hebrew class held in the community.

It is quite remarkable to observe the younger children’s participation in the prayer service procedures, as it serves to enhance their learning and development. During kiddush, Yahudereck recited the blessings over wine and bread. A young boy was responsible for carrying the tray and coordinating the distribution of the bread divided into small portions. By the time we chorused Brikat hamazon together, the younger children were the loudest, with their young, sharp voices that made the grace after the meal melodically tense when they sang along to some of the lines.

Finally came the moment I was waiting for, to meet with some of the young students of the mini Hebrew class hosted in the synagogue. After everyone had their Shabbat meal, the students got ready for their Hebrew learning by positioning themselves at one end of the synagogue. When David came in, he started asking them questions one after the other. The students responded accurately and perfectly.

Following my introduction, I joined the class and felt honored to invite the students to read something in Ivrit of my choosing. I requested Kamsi, one of the male students, to recite Psalm 145 in Hebrew, and he did so flawlessly. It was inspiring to learn that their desire to travel to Israel as adults and be able to communicate with the people there is one of their main motivations to learn Hebrew. They seek to learn not only how to read but also how to speak. Another student, Chimuanya, a female, recited Psalm 136 in Hebrew with outstanding confidence. My enthusiasm was visible as I observed the students, prompting me to request that they recite more common sentences in Hebrew. They all made an effort before their teacher concluded the session. I urged them to keep practicing.

Ardent Hebrew Academy, as it is called, has been David Yahuderek’s way of contributing to the development of Judaism, tracing back to 2019, about a year after his bar mitzvah. He was a student of Eben Cohen, who taught him how to read Hebrew. Cohen was teaching in the synagogue at that time. Throughout the years that followed, he has maintained the classes and has selflessly motivated younger teenagers to stay focused despite multiple challenges, the most significant of which is the lack of electricity.

When David was away at Abuja for a project, the public electricity system experienced a major setback due to vandalism. In addition to the absence of their teacher, students struggled to learn without a textbook. To compound the electricity challenge that persisted for several months, the country was thrown into fuel scarcity, causing the price of petrol to skyrocket. In sheer determination, the synagogue management stepped up to keep powering the Hebrew class with a generator, which is usually more active at night since students have to rest after school hours and help their parents at home before going to the synagogue for classes.

While the electricity issue remained unresolved for nearly 3 years, continuing to run the class became unfeasible, bringing it to the brink of shutting down until Kulanu intervened. They analyzed the ongoing challenge of the Hebrew class and intervened by providing solar electricity for the synagogue to support the class. The solar unit consists of panels, batteries, and control units. In response to this gesture, the students, the imot, and the members of the synagogue express their gratitude and satisfaction for the new improvements and developments in the synagogue made possible by Kulanu’s assistance. This development ultimately filled the gap in the community caused by a lack of public electricity for more than three years. For record-keeping purposes, the installation will be the first solar electrification project of its kind by Kulanu in the country aimed at supporting Hebrew learning.

With the availability of solar-powered electric ceiling fans, stuffy conditions due to the zinc structure of the building have been improved, allowing members to have better comfort. In addition to providing a Wi-Fi connection, Kulanu also made a remarkable effort to ensure an adequate number of chairs, tables, books, and needed materials for students, as well as a standard whiteboard for teaching with a projector.

Everything was running smoothly, except for the solar panel, which shuts off at 10:00 pm. The solar system is turned off at night and powered on in the morning due to insufficient batteries, which made it difficult to power the borehole for water generation. The solar has eight panels and only two batteries, which was not enough to make it function at maximum efficiency.

In another development, the Ardent Hebrew Academy class has been receiving renewed support and encouragement, all thanks to Margie Billian from the United States, whom David met online. She not only provides food for the students to eat but also food for the synagogue to use for the Shabbat observance. The children have been immensely inspired to continue attending studies on a consistent basis as a result of her monthly contributions.

Alongside her support for meals and Hebrew education, Margie Billian also took action to tackle the recent challenges related to the solar system. As the solar system had become unreliable, especially at night, because of inadequate batteries and panels, she successfully secured the funds needed for an urgent upgrade. Barely a month after my visit to the community, the upgrade has now been completed thanks to the funding she provided, and the synagogue enjoys reliable solar power for both learning and worship.

Usually, a solar power system, even where there is abundant sunshine, generates electricity based on several key factors: the number and size of solar panels, the capacity of the batteries, and the total load it is expected to carry. When Kulanu first funded the first phase of installation in 2024, the project served as a pilot to test the system’s viability for powering the synagogue and encouraging Hebrew learning. Now, with Margie’s generous additional support, the solar system has been successfully upgraded to full capacity, capable of meeting the synagogue’s daily and nighttime energy needs.

The initiative to leverage solar technology as an alternative has helped keep the community’s efforts together. There’s now more available time to study Hebrew in the evening. Two students, Kamsi and Ngozi, expressed their joy at the improvement in learning compared to the limited class sessions they previously used to have. Since the solar lighting upgrade, the increased availability of evening classes has significantly improved their learning pace and performance skills.

Kulanu’s provision of solar electrification is more than just providing energy—it is a long-term investment in the future growth and the sustainability of Judaism. Reliable electricity provides opportunities for improved Jewish learning, worship, and community development, particularly in areas with limited electricity. This solar intervention serves as a model for other remote areas or locations facing similar electricity issues, offering a practical and sustainable solution for practicing Judaism fully, safely, and comfortably.

The post Solar Electrification For Hebrew Learning & Worship first appeared on African Jewish Voices.

Originally published on the Kulanu Blog

In the last one decade, Judaism has seen significant growth, particularly among the Igbos, who are increasingly embracing a return to traditional mainstream Judaism. In pursuit of the ancient truth, the old ways—and the state of cultural existence before colonization—numerous individuals have felt compelled to undertake this sacred journey. As awareness grows in the midst of an endless flow of knowledge, the notable parallels between certain traditional customs of the land and various laws in the Torah have established a foundation for the current acceptance and embrace of Rabbinical Judaism among the Igbos and neighboring tribes in Nigeria.

According to current statistics, there are nearly a hundred Jewish locations throughout the country, varying in size from communities to synagogues and congregations. As the number of adherents grows, the necessity of learning to read the Hebrew language has also emerged. Typically, it is observed that most individuals who concentrate on reading Ivrit are cantors, primarily for the purpose of leading prayer services. Another factor is that established Jewish schools offering Hebrew reading as a subject are rarely available. Records indicate that there are currently only about 3 to 5 Jewish-owned schools in the country.

Nonetheless, there have been commendable efforts from certain individuals who have dedicated themselves to teaching Hebrew to others in order to bridge this gap. In reality, adults take longer to grasp reading Ivrit, which is why the focus has been on younger children and teenagers. One of the classes that has remained consistent for several years is led by David Yahuderek. Having learnt to read Hebrew from Eben Cohen, he decided to share his knowledge with others at Har Shalom Synagogue. The classes take place in the synagogue primarily on Sundays and in the evenings on certain weekdays.

Despite the average limited meeting hours, notable progress was still being achieved. Students are facing challenges due to the absence of textbooks and other materials essential for a seamless learning experience. However, several younger boys who went through the class have become remarkably quick and precise in reading the Hebrew text. In the subsequent year, adults and certain elderly individuals started to enroll in the class, adhering to a flexible schedule and learning at their own pace.

However, just as the learning was gaining traction, an unexpected setback arose due to vandalism and interruptions in the public electricity supply in the rural area where the Synagogue is located. This continued for months, and eventually for years, placing increasing demands on the synagogue to maintain the class, as they had to rely on a small petrol generator to provide power at night. In addition to one or two Sunday classes each month, weekday classes take place occasionally in the early evening hours, prior to the communal Maariv, after which students return to their homes in the neighborhood. After the Torah study concludes on Wednesdays at approximately 9 pm, they engage in Hebrew learning until 11 pm before settling down for the night in the two guest rooms available in the synagogue.

Nevertheless, the recent removal of the petrol subsidy by the new Nigerian government has led to a significant increase in gasoline and petrol prices, which has subsequently caused a dramatic rise in the cost of everything, including food and other essential goods. The synagogue management, already facing challenges in supporting members in diverse ways, found it increasingly difficult to sustain evening gatherings. Often, the children in the class prefer these night classes since they need to rest and assist their parents after returning from school before attending the synagogue.

By the time Kulanu learned about the situation in the Hebrew class, they intervened by providing solar electricity for the synagogue, consisting of solar batteries, solar panels, and a control unit.

“We revived our weekday Torah study class the moment we lit up the synagogue. Once a week we study Torah, learning Hebrew late into the night before going to bed.”

Yehudit, the ima of the synagogue, spoke in excitement. And one of the young female students, Chimuanya, expressed her satisfaction with improvements in the Hebrew language.

“I think I have been struggling to learn faster when we have very limited classes. But since the solar light got here, we have more classes at night, which improved my learning speed and ability to pronounce the words correctly.”

Like every technology that is leveraged, the intended outcome should be solving problems and tackling challenges while surmounting limitations. Through the power of the sunshine, the solar panel generates energy, which is transferred and stored in the solar batteries that eventually power the synagogue’s electrical systems during the day and, most importantly, at night when Torah studies and the Hebrew class take place. By utilizing their technology grant, Kulanu has provided the synagogue with an alternative power source, filling the void left by the local area government’s lack of public electricity for more than two years. Many have lauded this gesture of solar electrification, which illuminates the synagogue for Hebrew learning and Torah studies, as the first of its kind in Jewish Nigeria. With the steady availability of solar-powered light, ventilation discomfort due to the aluminum-zinc structural material of the shul building has been improved for members taking a nap in the synagogue on a hot afternoon during Shabbat and other festivals. And with a Wi-Fi connection available, members are able to access the internet within the premises, making them spend more time in the synagogue. The internet has also proven to be highly beneficial in the Hebrew class area, where it powers the computer and serves the slide protector to facilitate learning on larger screens.

During my recent visit to the synagogue at the beginning of the Hanukkah festival, I assessed the progress made and identified the remaining challenges. Kulanu did a tremendous effort equipping each student with a seat and table and a standard whiteboard for teaching. I was able to meet with some of the students whom I have not met for quite some time now, and it was good to see their level of reading Hebrew improve significantly. Every other thing seems to be going well at the moment, except for the efficiency of the solar system at night in the absence of sunshine, whereby it depends on whatever is stored in the two batteries currently in use. One of the young boys, Derek, spoke about his experience.

“Most times at night, the solar light is not fully at its best, which makes learning a little bit difficult.”

Further inquiry from the leader of the Synagogue, Yahuderek Nwede, revealed that the issue is insufficient batteries required to generate longer hours of electricity that would last into the night. 

“With the current capacity of the batteries we have, it can power our electric bulbs, computers, ceiling fans, but cannot be used to power the borehole for water generation. At night, we switch from one battery to the other one in a space of about two hours.”

Despite these night-time deficiencies, the synagogue is highly grateful for the solar electrification project. Because what used to be hours upon hours of zero electricity during the day and lengthy hours of darkness at night has readily changed in narrative. Thanks to Kulanu whose ultimate interest was on the progress and efficiency of the children’s Hebrew class that dates back to 2019- there’s hope of sustaining these classes.

Reaching out to David Yahuderek, the main teacher who was away at Abuja during my visit, he had this to say about his motivations.

“I have always dreamt of being a teacher since growing up, but I never knew it was going to be in this form. When the electricity in our area got badly damaged, all hope was gone and the class almost collapsed but Kulanu came onboard, and got us back on track. For this, I am grateful and will also wish to appreciate Margie Billian for her generous contribution to both the Hebrew class and the Synagogue.”

The post How Solar Electrification is Powering Hebrew Learning & Strengthening Judaism in Eastern Nigeria. first appeared on African Jewish Voices.

By: Netzach Ekwunife

Photo Credit: Camp Sarah

Upon learning about Camp Sarah, numerous questions immediately came to mind. I was intrigued to learn more about the organization due to the elegance of its name. Who is Camp Sarah? What makes Camp Sarah stand out? What challenges is Camp Sarah aiming to address through its activities within the Nigerian Jewish community? However, a chat with Camp Sarah’s director, Debbie Isser, at Gihon Hebrew Synagogue in the Jikwoyi suburb of Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria, on Sunday, October 8, 2023, revealed its ambitious objectives for Nigerian and African Jews. The event was a Simcha Torah combined service program sponsored by Camp Sarah for Jewish communities in Abuja.

Camp Sarah, as I found out, is actually a Jewish organization dedicated to teaching Judaism to children aged 5–16 and fostering unity among Jewish communities for the betterment of all Jews. The service on Simcha Torah, being the first of its kind, united various synagogues in Abuja for a joint celebration. Children were seen completing their painting task based on events from the books of Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, and Deuteronomy. People were singing and dancing to Jewish songs as they carried Sefer Torah in a procession through the streets of Gihon Hebrew Synagogue, attracting the attention of onlookers. While speaking during the event, Debbie expressed her vision for Jewish communities in Nigeria to mirror those in the US as well as other parts of the globe. In a serene atmosphere, she fervently explained the purpose behind launching Camp Sarah and the goals they strive to accomplish through its various programs.

Mrs. Debbi mentioned that Camp Sarah began by sponsoring Jewish youths to attend summer camps in the United States before deciding to organize a Jewish summer camp in Nigeria after consulting with Jewish leaders such as Sar Habbakuk, the leader of Tikvat Israel Synagogue Kubwa Abuja, and others. According to her, the decision was made to have a lasting impact on native Jewish communities by educating young Jewish children about Jewish principles to improve Judaism globally. She suggested bringing summer camps to Nigeria instead of taking people to Jewish summer camps in the United States to have a greater impact and benefit more people.”

Despite the director, Debbie Isser, mentioning that their programs will expand to other parts of Nigeria with Jewish communities, as of now, they have only held programs in Abuja. Camp Sarah is planning to expand its program for young Jews from Abuja to the eastern parts of Nigeria, such as Anambra, Enugu, Imo, Ebonyi, and other locations. The goal is to organize Camp Sarah programs on a Jewish community level across Nigeria. Debie expressed her intention to expand Camp Sarah to different regions in Nigeria where Judaism is practiced, such as Anambra, Enugu, and Imo. She voiced her desire for every Jewish community to establish an independent Camp Sarah in Nigeria, aiming to introduce Jewish children to Judaism at a young age through enjoyable activities. Her plan involves organizing capacity building training for passionate Jewish youths from different Jewish communities in Nigeria. The training will focus on educating them about Camp Sarah’s goals and how to replicate its programs in their own communities, along with teaching necessary leadership skills.

Camp Sarah has had a significant influence on numerous Jewish children, who have gained knowledge of the Hebrew language, Jewish stories, and participated in celebrations such as Hanukkah parties. Ever since Camp Sarah launched their program for Jews in Nigeria in August 2023, they have been providing young Jews living in Nigeria with the chance to explore different forms of Judaism similar to those found in America. Camp Sarah’s programs provide a fun way for young Jews to learn about Judaism and socialize with other Jewish children from different synagogues. The camping program debuted as a one-week program at Tikvat Israel Synagogue Kubwa, Abuja, in August 2023. Running from August 21st to 26th, the program accommodated forty campers who shared in living, learning, and celebrating together. The event served as a positive kick start that had a significant impact on the participants’ lives. One of the participants revealed the significant impact the program had on her, particularly. According to her, the camp was instrumental in helping her learn to speak some Hebrew words. Attending the program was a delightful experience. Many thanks to Camp Sarah for organizing the camping event. I look forward to more in the future!

December 2023 saw Camp Sarah host a festive Hanukkah party for Jewish children in Abuja, Nigeria, to commemorate the holiday. At the event hosted at Tikvat Israel Synagogue, Debby shared with Israel Ben Abraham from Kosher World News that Camp Sarah aims to make sure Jewish children in Nigeria are connected to the global Jewish community. Mrs. Debbie emphasized the importance of their religion’s history, highlighting the tradition of passing it down through generations. Several children attend schools where they could be the only Jewish students. It is heartwarming to see them unite and experience a sense of belonging to a broader community, not only in Abuja but on a global scale, preventing them from feeling isolated as children in a region where Judaism is still emerging. Our traditions, holidays, virtues, food, and activities are all shared. Hopefully, this will make them love Judaism and learn about it together. They will know they are not alone as Jews, wherever they are.

Children were seen learning how to build a wooden Hanukkiah. They participated in the dreidel game, encouraging the value of sharing among them. Younger students were assigned to a unique class focused on painting various events in Jewish history. A special performance was delivered by the Gihon Children to enhance the event. During Hanukkah, children were served traditional festival sweet foods like local kpuf-kpuf and potato pancakes. The children were taken to the field for some light physical activity. Debbie recounted the origins of Hanukkah to the children, highlighting the key figures who played a role in making the festival possible over 2000 years ago during her opening address. She emphasized the importance of Hanukkah in the modern world and in our personal lives, stating that it symbolizes the resilience of the Jewish people and their ability to endure despite challenges. Further discussions detailed a recap of the activities that took place during the children’s program, along with future plans for Camp Sarah.

The speaker mentioned having more than fifty children from three different synagogues present, with 35 children from Gihon Synagogue, one child from HaGadol International Synagogue, and the remaining children from Tikvat Israel.  “We started the program by re-telling the Hanukkah story to the children. We talked about what Hanukkah is all about. We talked about the holiday. That is what Hanukah is all about; the story behind it is about 2000 years ago. And we talked about how it’s been celebrated today.”

Children from Gihon Synagogue performed a song. The song was truly beautiful and wonderful. I have a strong affection for them. Two children presented the story of Hanukkah. Following this, the children were split into two groups. Youthful participants were engaged in painting Hanukkah objects and Torah stories inside the synagogue using printed materials provided to them. The older children are playing the dreidel game inside the hall. By the conclusion of the program, every child will leave with a Hanukkiah and a packet of candles to partake in the Hanukkah candle lighting at home. The director of the camp also stated that they are planning to have more events organized during the coming festivals, and there are plans to organize leadership training for those working with Camp Sarah.

It has captured the minds of the younger ones, who are the future of Judaism. Camp Sarah is the first of its kind.” I was at the Camp Sarah Hanukkah party, and I witnessed how happy these children are. You know that the future of every nation or religion lies in their children, and Camp Sarah organizing these types of programs for children will help prepare these children to carry the touch of Judaism in Nigeria into the future. To me, it is a wonderful program, and I commend Camp Sarah for this program. After returning from the Hanukkah party, I conducted a session with the children to discuss what they had learned from the program. The children expressed their happiness while sharing how the program has had a positive impact on them. One individual shared that she learned how to build a Hanukkiah. Another individual mentioned that he learned how to play the game of dreidel. Some individuals reported meeting other Jewish children. This program is fantastic for children.

The children expressed a strong sense of community and belonging that they gained from being part of the program. Camp Sarah’s initiative appears to be making a significant impact on enhancing the knowledge and respect for Judaism among Nigerian youth. The children showed an overwhelming feeling of pride in their Jewish identity and culture. This program offers educational opportunities and fosters a supportive and inclusive environment for young Jewish individuals in Nigeria. The children were thankful for the opportunity to connect with others who have similar heritage and beliefs. Camp Sarah’s initiatives are evidently having a beneficial effect on the Jewish community in Nigeria. At Camp Sarah, the children’s sense of community and belonging plays a crucial role in managing their dual identities as Nigerian and Jewish. Camp Sarah is molding the future generation of confident and devoted Jewish Nigerians by providing a secure environment for collaborations between Jewish children and fun-ways of celebrating festivities.

The post Jewish Camping Arrives in Nigeria with Opening of Camp Sarah first appeared on African Jewish Voices.

As many Nigerians, particularly those of the Igbo ethnic group, continue to return to Judaism from both Christianity and Messianic circles, Nigerian Judaism is currently confronted with a new two-fold challenge, that of having a mass of returnees whose lives are built on anti-Torah beliefs and practices mixing up without first being purged. The potential to raise a mass of proclaimed Jews whose understanding of Judaism contradicts Torah, Mishnah, and Gemara is a significant problem that must be taken seriously. Returnees have the task of understanding what Judaism is all about, understanding and reading Hebrew as Judaism’s official language, and understanding the structure of prayer in Judaism. When these challenges are considered, it is clear that a significant inventive strategy is required, including the establishment of a mechanism to assist returnees in purging themselves of the minim (avodah zarah) they used to believe and practice.

As a Jewish community, Gihon Hebrew Synagogue has taken the lead in ensuring that this mass of returnees, including men, women, teenagers, and children, are adequately directed toward knowing what Judaism is all about. Because these returnees are considered babies in Judaism, Gihon has established a Hebrew and Judaism class (which was merged into their already thriving children class) to guarantee they are cared for as babies in their Judaism practice. Many returnees have admitted that it is difficult to understand the language of Hebrew, which is the official language of Judaism, as well as the pattern of prayer, which is vastly different from what is available in Christianity and messianic, from which the most of them are coming. As a result, it is critical that a system be put in place to address this difficulty. Again, these returnees appear to be doing everything wrong when it comes to Torah and Halachot, the foundations of Judaism.

Gihon Jewish Experience

Gihon, located on the outskirts of Abuja, Nigeria’s capital city, is one of the country’s oldest Jewish communities, having been created over thirty years ago. They have maintained in their history of taking Judaism to the next level. Gihon has continued to bring out the best in those who want to practice Judaism since it was founded, thanks to the efforts of men and women who were once zealous Christians—special thanks to these men and women whose sacrifices gave birth to everything that is locally and internally known about Gihon Hebrew Synagogue today.

It is widely known among Nigerian Jewish communities, as well as foreign Jews residing in Nigeria and Jews who rarely visit Nigeria from other African countries, Israel, the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, that observing Shabbath or other Jewish festival in Gihon Hebrew Synagogue will take your Jewish festival experience to a level you never imagined—a level you will certainly testify to be out of the ordinary. In Gihon, you will hear the melodic voices of men, women, and children echoing Hebrew melodies written by several music masters who crossed over from various Christian churches to form the Gihon Jewish community. Everyone who has ever visited Gihon in the past has always expressed how remarkable their trip was—they have always expressed having had the “Gihon Jewish experience.”

Again, as it was commanded that the teaching of Torah must be made a priority in Judaism, Gihon, as it was popularly called, was founded upon the learning of Torah and Halachot. It will not be wrong if one refers to the Gihon Hebrew Synagogue as the citadel of Torah learning in Nigeria. This is so because the leaders of Gihon Community laid a foundation that made it possible that, from an early age of five, children of the community have started learning Torah, Halachot, and Hebrew songs from the children’s class. Morehs are drawn from members who are well grounded and passionate about Torah and Halachot and who are also skilled in teaching children. As it was said that an apple does not fall far away from its tree, Gihon has continued to raise youths who are passionate about Judaism. In Gihon, you will meet youths who don’t just answer Jews; rather, you will meet youths whose lives are Jewish to the core—thanks to the effort made by the founders of Gihon Community, who ensured that children of the community are raised to become Jewish inside and out. Many of these children have today grown to become youths who have taken Judaism to the next level, both locally and internationally.

Gihon Incorporates Returnees Class to Children Class

Gihon have continued to demonstrate leadership in matters of Judaism, having risen up to the challenge posed by the mass return being witnessed in Nigerian Judaism today by incorporating a special foundation class named Gihon Eden Returnees Class into the community’s Shabbath Day children’s class. This foundation class is held every Sunday morning inside the synagogue hall, immediately after morning Shacharit. It is open to returnees who worship in the synagogue and those worshiping in other synagogues, as well as others who are not yet into Judaism but want to learn about Judaism. According to the class coordinator, Shlomo Ben Yakov, Sunday was chosen as the day for the class so that students who came for Shabbath observation could sleep over in the synagogue and participate in the class on Sunday morning before going back to their homes and businesses.

If you visit Gihon Hebrew Synagogue on Sunday mornings, you will be greeted by a class filled with men, women, and children asking questions and holding discussions on various issues that relate to Judaism. Paying more attention to the discussion class will make you notice how inexperienced they are in matters of Judaism. You will also notice how passionate they are about learning about Judaism. Also, you will hear the stories of how they journeyed from Christianity into Messianism, then into Judaism.

As a reader, you may be asking about those handling this class owing to the fact that not everyone is qualified to teach about Judaism, especially to returnees who have been socially constructed to be Christians, then messianic, and now Jews. The class is handled by a team led by Shlomo Ben Yakov, who doubles as a chazzan in the Gihon Hebrew Synagogue as well as an aspiring Jewish Rabbi. Other members of the team include Ima Emmanuel and Eluzai Ben Dan. Shlomo Ben Yakov, who can be regarded as the son of the soil in the Gihon community, is the son of Yakov Ben Yeshayahu, who is one of the founding fathers of the Gihon Jewish Community. Shlomo was very young when his father left Christianity for Judaism. He said he can still vividly remember what it was like when they started the journey of Judaism in Nigeria—a journey that has metamorphosed into what is known today as Nigerian Judaism.

Just like every other child whose parent took along as they journeyed from Christianity into Judaism, Shlomo started practicing Judaism even before he understood anything about Judaism. Apart from suffering isolation and discrimination in school for having been identified as a Jew by the school authorities and students, he once didn’t know how to speak or read the Hebrew language. He once attended a service without comprehending the words being spoken. As a child, he also witnessed how elders struggled to practice Judaism as they are doing today. According to him, he understands what it means to be a newly born child in Judaism, having been one himself in the past and having been in Judaism long enough to witness how new converts became well versed in their practice of Judaism.

Today, Shlomo and his team are dedicated to educating individuals of all ages about Judaism, enabling them to embrace and practice its teachings within and beyond the Gihon community. In 2019, he attended a Jewish conference held in Onitsha, Anambra State, south-east Nigeria, as an educator responsible for teaching a class called Chita Hebrew. The national seminar was organized by the national Jewish Youth in collaboration with Shevei Israel, an organization that is working to bring together Jews in Africa with those in Eretz Israel and other parts of the world. Over two hundred and fifty individuals from various Jewish communities across Nigeria gathered for the conference, representing a wide range of ages.

A curriculum has been developed and shared with adult participants to ensure a seamless learning experience in the Gihon Eden Returnees Class. This was done to support participants in their pursuit of self-learning by providing access to free resources that can assist them in their exploration of Judaism. Through the curriculum, students have the opportunity to explore various aspects of Hebrew language, Judaism, Jewish scriptures and texts, rituals and traditions, history and culture, contemporary issues, the Jewish Diaspora, Hebrew language, ethics, and holidays.

Gihon Receives Donation from Avraham Ben Avraham Foundation (ABAF)

As the scripture says, “May Hashem send you help from Zion,” Gihon Hebrew Synagogue has received a helping hand towards the running of Gihon Eden Class, having attracted a goodwill donation of an MTN 4G router and its continuous data subscription from the Avraham Ben Avraham Foundation (ABAF). A foundation founded by Avraham Ben Avraham, a foremost Jewish journalist of Nigerian origin who is also a senior member of the Sub-Saharan African Jewish Alliance (SAJA), founded the foundation to support the growth of Judaism in Nigeria and Africa at large. In the recent past, the foundation made a donation of numerous Hebrew learning books to some synagogues in Nigeria so as to aid their Hebrew language learning. It has also made several donations to numerous synagogues to help in their celebration of Jewish feasts. The donation of MTN 4G routers to Gihon Hebrew Synagogue is the latest in the book of goodwill donations extended to Jewish communities in Nigeria and Africa by the A.B.A. Foundation.

During the gadget transfer, Mr. Avraham expressed that he bestowed the device upon Gihon Hebrew Synagogue due to their commendable efforts in bolstering Judaism in Nigeria and Africa as a whole. He states that the router will facilitate internet connectivity for the synagogue, allowing community members, particularly those involved in teaching, to have continuous and uninterrupted access to the internet. This will enable them to access resources that will aid in imparting Jewish knowledge to children, returnees, and older members of the community. In his words:

“I am happy to see that Gihon has put a system in place, a system that will cater for Jewish children and our brothers and sisters who are returning to Judaism. The best I can do is support them with this. I believe it will help teachers, returnees, and members alike to access materials that will help them learn Hebrew and Judaism so as to practice Judaism better. Since the synagogue is now internet-connected, people can easily stay in synagogue and access Jewish materials from the internet, even at night. I know this donation will help this community and its members grow in Judaism. I have good confidence that Shlomo and his team will utilize it for the good benefit of African and worldwide Jewry. Also, the Avraham Ben Avraham Foundation will see that internet data will not be a challenge. Currently, we have subscribed upto 50 gigabytes of data and will continue to do the same when it finishes. Internet data will not be a problem.

Also speaking, Shlomo Ben Yakov appreciated the donor Avraham Ben Avraham Foundation saying;

“On behalf of the Gihon Eden class, especially children, we appreciate the Avraham Ben Avraham Foundation and their esteemed partners all over the world for this great gift. We are very happy for the donation, and we promise to do our part to ensure that the purpose for which this donation is made is achieved. Now we can even have access to the video and audio Hebrew language class. We can also have access to children songs, games and what have you. These things will help the children and returnees have a better understanding of the concept of Judaism.”

He went on:

“Again, we hope they see reasons to do more. We pray they have more funds so they can do more towards raising these children to be Jews who practice Judaism with all their heart, might, and possessions. This donation is an investment in the souls of these young Jews. We say thank you so much to the A.B.A. Foundation! To you, Mr. Avraham Ben Avraham, we say, Todah Rabbah! Thank you very much.”

Last but not least, once the handover was finished, the router was immediately configured in such a way that it could be utilized by the folks who are already present in the Synagogue. It was easy to see the joy that flashed on their faces when they connected to the internet using their mobile phones and laptop computers. Their expressions of happiness were readily evident for everyone to observe. With the internet connectivity, classes can be streamed live for interested students to join in real time irrespective of their remote location. Another viable option being considered is to record and upload series of these beginners classes on the internet to enable students learn at their own pace.

ABOUT THE WRITER: Israel ben Avraham is a Nigerian writer, author, blogger, and Jewish Journalist. He is the founder of the Kosherworld News Blog, and a former newswriter with African Today News. Isreal is currently a new recruit for the Avraham Ben Avraham Foundation and a guest blogger for the Jewish Nigeria Blog.

The post Gihon’s Eden Hebrew Class gets Significant Support from the A.B.A. Foundation first appeared on African Jewish Voices.

Written by Shoshana Nambi, a Jewish Ugandan author. Her first book, “The Very Best Sukkah: A Story from Uganda,” is a tale meant for young readers. The storyline is set in eastern Uganda. The Very Best Sukkah is a unique story set in the Ugandan Abayudaya Jewish community, offering a fresh perspective in Jewish children’s literature.

The storybook beautifully captures the essence of unity and togetherness, providing insight into the Jewish people’s journey through the desert to Israel and the miracles that God bestowed upon them. This event marks the bountiful harvest and honors the historical journey of the Jewish people from Egypt to Israel through the desert. Hence, the celebration of the feast of booths, also known as Sukkot.

The book showcased a diverse cast of characters including Shoshi, Avram, Jajja, The Rabbi, David, Dina, Nalongo, Moshe, Daudi, Rebecca, Sarah, Yonatan, Isaac, and Nbilo the goat. Shoshi and her goat, Nbilo, triumphantly won the race against their peers at the start of the story. Jajja her grandmother scolds her, emphasizing that life is not a race. Shoshi’s response quickly became one of my favorites. “It’s not like I always have to win the race; I just like being at the front. The view is better there.”

Shoshi, the lead character, lives with her grandparents in a small home surrounded by coffee trees in the Abayudaya Jewish community in Uganda. She lives with her brothers and together they abide by Jewish practices on a daily basis. On Shabbat, the rabbi speaks to his congregation as they sit beneath a mango tree. He points out that the solemn Yom Kippur holiday, which includes the feast of atonement and fasting, has come to an end. It was time to celebrate the successful journey of the Jewish people from the wilderness to the promised land – it was time for Sukkot. Readers will discover various aspects of African Jewish life as Shoshi and her friends get ready for Sukkot. The tone of Nambi’s writing is never didactic; instead, her characters are real people living in a particular town, where the kids count the stars in the sky and the local seamstress makes curtains for her sukkah.

Shoshi and her brothers build a sukkah (a temporary shelter) to celebrate Sukkot. They are eager for the rabbi to choose theirs as the best tent in the village. Every year, a competition is held to decide the most outstanding sukkah. After a storm destroys the structure of Daudi and his daughter Rebecca, the community moves past the competition to honor the holiday, and rebuild together. Everybody knows that the new sukkah that was built to replace Daudi and Rebecca’s old ones—which were wrecked by the rain—is the most beautiful one because it reflects the skills in the entire community.

Shoshi depicted the character of a cheerful, responsible, and talented young lad. She asked insightful questions and, most importantly, held her religious beliefs in high esteem. “Every Friday, I race home from school to help my Jajja prepare our Shabbat meal. It’s my job to mix cassava and millet flour to make the dough for the kalo bread.” Mixing dough for challah (the baked Jewish bread for shabbat), visiting the synagogue, collecting piles of the Nsambya tree branches for building the sukkah, keeping her crying goat company during the heavy rain and thunder, helping build back Daudi’s sukkah that was destroyed by the rain, and being satisfied with everything she did. That is a character with a kind heart and zeal towards everything concerning her religious beliefs she possesses.

Avram and David show qualities of reasoning, love, and support towards their sister. It was evident during moments like sitting on the grass counting the stars, supporting Shoshi in building their sukkah, and collectively gathering the Nsambya wood to help rebuild Daudi and Rebecca’s sukkah. Jajja, their grandmother, not only listens keenly to her grandchildren, but also offers the most gentle and reassuring words. First, she points out the importance of understanding that life is not always a race. “Shoshi, you and your brothers did a great job on the sukkah this year. I think you have already won. Another comforting response from Jajja was when Shoshi asked if they were going to win the competition of who built the best sukkah. It was the best thing to say.

The Rabbi shows traits of a good leader, highlighting the importance of unity, similar to the symbolism of the lulav. The other characters in the story exhibit kindness, hard work, responsibility towards each other, and a strong commitment to doing good deeds. Nevertheless, each character plays a significant role in the fascinating and heartwarming story. 

Another interesting angle to this story is that every character had something to do and made an honest living. “Each sukkah looks different, and each one reflects its builder’s special skills and talents. Dina is the school’s art teacher. Her family’s sukkah is decorated with her student’s colorful artwork.” “Nalongo, the mother of twins and the village seamstress, has sewn beautiful curtains and pillows for the family’s sukkah.”

 “And Moshe has sukkah filled with bowls of brightly colored fruits and vegetables from his own bountiful garden.  He also offers a dish of roasted groundnuts for passersby to try. This teaches the need to do something honest. And the need to stretch out your hand when the need be. It also teaches the importance and beauty of individual skills and talents. We can’t know it all. We need our neighbors and brothers. Throughout the year, Daudi and his daughter Rebecca run a stand in the village where they sell mouthwatering samosas. Daudi has saved money to buy fancy battery-operated lights and elegant crochet trim in the big town of Mbale to decorate his sukkah.

  
 While constructing the sukkah, at first it was a competition to see who could win the best sukkah. Daudi and his daughter Rebecca put in extra effort and saved money to ensure their sukkah stood out. Regrettably, it was destroyed by the rain. However, since superstitions are common in most Jewish communities, it is not shocking that some Abadudaya residents wonder if their jealousy of Daudi’s decorative sukkah led to its collapse. It’s lovely how they set aside the competition and work together to rebuild Daudi and Rebecca’s sukkah. Upon arriving at Daudi and Rebecca’s house with our branches, we are greeted by a large gathering of villagers. Everyone has something to share. Dina has a collection of her students’ artwork, Nalongo contributes some pillows, and Moshe brings a dish of roasted groundnuts. The whole village works together to assist in repairing Daudi’s and Rebecca’s sukkah. Daudi distributes his tasty samosas for a snack, and a chorus of “Henei ma tov” fills the air. This part of the story was the second most enjoyable for me. Success is achieved when everyone succeeds. This Jewish hymn, “Henei ma tov umah na’im shevet achim gam yachad,” is widely recognized by Jews worldwide. This passage conveys the idea of the positive experience of brothers and sisters living together harmoniously. Representing the unity of love among the Jewish community worldwide. The Rabbi imparts a crucial moral in the Jewish story. The significance of various individuals, each bringing their own distinctiveness, uniting to create an ideal community. It’s impossible to accomplish everything on our own. This message about the lulav, with its three different types of branches intertwined, symbolizing unity in a community, is truly inspiring for our world. His teachings are inspired by the natural world and have strong connections to both traditional African and Israeli art. This passage beautifully illustrates a scene of unity and teamwork, where individuals come together to mend what’s broken, offering support, sustenance, and harmony, with a focus on cooperation rather than competition. Both words and images convey the message that Jews worldwide should unite like the various branches of the lulav. In ancient times, King David was defeated in more battles than King Ahab. David was considered righteous, and during his era, the children of Israel worshipped God but were never united. In the era of King Ahab, the Israelites practiced idol worship but remained united. Coming together in unity, they achieved victory in multiple wars with a few casualties.

The Rabbi concurs. Daudi and Rebecca’s sukkah won! Displaying the lulav and etrog, the Rabbi showcases the significant symbols of the sukkot holiday. The process of making the lulav is demonstrated by combining three distinct branches and binding them together. Our community is a diverse group of individuals who are connected in a unique way. The Rabbi’s message emphasizes the power of unity, drawing a parallel to the interconnected branches of the lulav. We can accomplish amazing feats and conquer any challenges that we face when we work together.

I really enjoyed the part in the book where Jajja asked Shoshi if she was sad for not winning the contest, and her response was, “But I did win.” We all won. Everyone helped rebuild Daudi and Rebecca’s sukkah, so everyone won the contest.” She fell asleep with a smile on her face as her grandmother gently squeezed her hand. It was a fitting conclusion that brought a smile to my face.

I give the book a 5-star rating.  The Very Best Sukkah tells a unique, insightful story.  This text delves into the origin and distinctive culture of the Abayudaya, a Jewish community in Uganda. The cover art by Yogev is attention-grabbing with its vibrant colors, bold lines, and charming details. The captivating visuals persist as readers are introduced to a fun-loving girl determined to win a community contest. She exemplifies strength of character and compassion, guiding her brothers to school, synagogue, empathy, and kindness. She also has the most adorable pet goat!

Standing out in a crowded market, The Very Best Sukkah offers a compelling narrative with beautiful artwork and the added bonus of expanding perspectives. This book’s universal themes of perseverance and love will surely captivate readers from all backgrounds, making it a must-read for anyone, especially children seeking a heartwarming and motivational story. This timeless tale, The Very Best Sukkah, beautifully celebrates the power of family, faith, and community, making it a wonderful addition to any library or bookshelf.

Shoshana Nambi, aged 34, was raised in the Abayudaya community in eastern Uganda. Being a rabbinical student at Hebrew Union College, she serves as a student rabbi at Rodeph Sholom, a Reform congregation on the Upper West Side, where Shoshi and her teenage daughter reside. The picture book, “The Very Best Sukkah: A Story from Uganda,” delves into the Jewish holiday of Sukkot and the vibrant celebrations within her community, making it a captivating read. This children’s book was honored with a 2023 National Jewish Book Award and recognized as a Sydney Taylor Honor Book. Furthermore, Nambi was part of the  Ugandan delegation at the Sub-Saharan African Jewish Alliance conference held in Cote “lviore, where she met with other African Jews from nine other African countries . According to her, one of her greatest achievements has been transitioning from a small rural community in Uganda to the bustling city of New York with her daughter, describing it as an exciting adventure.

Nambi’s journey has been marked by lots of exciting opportunities and well-deserved recognition for her work. Her story of overcoming challenges and achieving success is truly inspiring. Nambi’s dedication to her work and commitment to creating an impact are truly inspiring. She excels at adjusting to and flourishing in unfamiliar surroundings, showcasing her resilience and perseverance. Nambi’s experience in New York has been truly rewarding, as it has enabled her to strengthen her bond with her daughter and discover new interests together. She clearly prioritizes making lasting memories and treasuring special moments with loved ones.   

THE VERY BEST SUKKAH. A STORY FROM UGANDA

By: Shoshana Nambi and Illustrated By Moran Yogev

16 Pages. Year of Publication: 2021

Publisher: Kalaniot Books. Moosic Pennsylvania.

The post A glimpse into Abayudaya Community: Reviewing the Very Best Sukkah, a Story from Uganda  first appeared on African Jewish Voices.