MARVELOUS MAIZE

In an effort to get a good start on recovering from the long drought, St. Clare students planted maize in the hard earth last fall hoping that the long November and December rains would be on schedule.  The rains did come and the planted maize grew.  It is now being harvested.

Ears (above) kernels (below) drying.

First, the ears are laid out to dry.  After they are dry, the kernels are removed and also left to dry.  Once dry, these kernels will be ground into maize flour, which will be used to make the porridge, which the girls have for breakfast.  In addition, it the flour is also used for ugali, a basic Kenyan food.  Everyone is waiting to see if the March and April rains will come and bring the seeds planted in January to life.