A mohel in Nairobi: Discovering Jewish life in the heart of Africa

Traveling to Kenya as a mohel, the writer encountered a small but dedicated Jewish community in Nairobi. The local synagogue serves as a communal hub, offering a social hall and a home for the rabbi's family. The brit milah took place just before Shabbat, merging the celebratory meal with Friday night dinner.

The community includes both locals and expats, and despite its size, it actively participates in Jewish rituals. Surprisingly, many Kenyans express strong support for Israel, with market vendors even quoting prices in Hebrew.

A touching moment occurred when a 90-year-old Holocaust survivor, Max, was called to the Torah for the first time, having lived under the radar of Nairobi’s Jewish community for nearly 50 years. His connection with the rabbi came through a relative who discovered his GoFundMe page.

The Jewish community in Nairobi faces an uncertain future. The current rabbi, who has been instrumental in teaching and leading the congregation, is set to leave. Without strong leadership, the community may struggle to sustain its Jewish identity.

As the writer departed, a Kenya Airways attendant bid him farewell with a Hebrew blessing, reinforcing the unexpected yet deep ties between Kenya and Israel.

Read Original Article: The Jerusalem Post

Image credit - RABBI NETANEL KASZOVITZ, RABBI OF KENYA