Kairu and Mukasu leave the SAJM

On Thursday June 11, 2015, we experienced a bittersweet farewell to Elder Mukasa and Elder Kairu. They left in the middle of a transfer, but we were able to have them participate on May 12th with the last transfer meeting. They each shared a testimony and were part of the final departure dinner held in the mission home.
But, today was the actual time they boarded a plane for Uganda and headed home. We love these Elders and appreciate the individual ways they contributed to the SAJM. They each go home having grown up a great deal. We are excited for the transition they have ahead and plan to stay in touch.

Elder Mukasa

Elder Kairu

President Radebe came to the airport to say good-bye and also had some funds for a missionary in Uganda. He serves in the Stake Presidency in the Benoni Stake, and has served with Elder Kairu.

While in the airport, we started hearing drums beating and people singing. Down in the arrival terminal, we saw that the Lesedi Dancers were entertaining arriving passengers. Lesedi is a cultural village that is not far from Johannesburg.

Here is a story below about what they offer:

LESEDI AFRICAN VILLAGE OVERNIGHT EXPERIENCE

SPEND A NIGHT IN TRADITIONAL AFRICA – A KALEIDOSCOPE OF CULTURAL COLOUR
Lesedi African Lodge and Cultural village is located in the heart of the African bushveld and rocky hills, in the Cradle of Humankind, a World Heritage Site.
Be set to be enthralled in an adventure that reveals the mystical cultures and traditions of the people of Africa, as you encounter five traditional homesteads, each inhabited by Zulu, Xhosa, Pedi, Basotho and Ndebele tribes who live according to tribal folklore and traditions of their ancestors."Our culture is the light of our nation – whoever walks here amongst our cultures at Lesedi can also see the light”.

A warm, traditional welcome awaits as your escort takes you to "their’ village. Accommodation is unique as you stay in comfortable, traditionally styled rooms, and once settled, you’re introduced to the many colourful and fascinating aspects of the cultures of the people of Lesedi.

New additions to the village and African Lodge are the luxury Nguni rooms which include richly decorated double suites. These carry the same vibrant colours and energy as the other guestrooms in the village and are also unique to the Zulu tribe they represent, adding to the existing accommodation options.

Start your journey at the Ndebele village with an introduction to the cultural experience preceded by a multi-media presentation on the history and origins of South Africa’s rainbow nation. Then, enjoy a guided tour of the other four ethnic homesteads – Zulu, Basotho, Xhosa and Pedi. As the sun sets over the African bush, visit the Boma for a very interactive affair of traditional singing and dancing, which depict stories dating back to the days of their ancestors.

Dine in the Nyama Choma Restaurant, featuring ethnic dishes, a fusion of Pan African cuisine all complemented by warm, traditional service. After a good night’s sleep awaken to the sounds of traditional maskande guitar or squash-box, and enjoy a full English breakfast which is served in the restaurant.

Lesedi and its cultural experience of old and new Africa was co-founded by African explorer, Kingsley Holgate, who is renowned for his vast knowledge and passion for keeping the traditional African culture alive. He has ensured that every attraction to be found at Lesedi is not only fascinating, but enriching. Discover the spirit of "Ubuntu” at this unique cultural venue where the music, song and warmth of Africa’s hospitality awaits.