Pesach, which comes once a year, is celebrated as one of the three festivals when everyone is expected to appear before Hashem as commanded in the Torah. While the Temple stood, people continued to move to Jerusalem, some traveling by caravans accompanied by their households in honor of these seasons of remembrance that would be passed on from generation to generation. Though the Temple is no longer present, and with more Jewish people living outside of Israel, our synagogues and homes have played a significant role in helping us keep these sacred traditions alive.

Uganda, in the eastern part of Africa, recently marked a century-long practice of Judaism, and is also experiencing growth in Jewish observance. This growth is evident in the opening up of new Jewish synagogues and communities in different enclaves around the country. Also, this development is occurring at a rate that surpasses that of the surrounding, closest neighboring countries in specific parameters. This is sparked by many factors, including marriages, births, and an increase in the number of new converts across the country.

The Abayudaya, meaning “the people of Judah” in the local language, are well-spread across the federation, from its headquarters in Mbale in the east to Apac in the far north, as well as in the capital of Kampala and other parts of the central regions. However, as their numbers increase, so does the challenge of navigating the corridors of living and practicing Judaism. Most of them reside in communal dwellings near each other in rural settlements, where they primarily engage in farming to grow their crops. But since the country is landlocked, it depends solely on neighboring
Kenya to source affordable Jewish products like matzah and wine for Pesach.

Challenges of Locating Pesach Food

Being an eight-day festival marked by the symbolic food of matzah instead of challah, celebrating Passover demands adequate preparation and resources. It’s a time for acquiring new utensils or ensuring the ones you have are kosher
before the festival begins. But while there’s a way of doing all this, the true difficulty lies in getting supplies for Pesach. Nonetheless, the resilience and persistence of these Jewish communities are demonstrated in their ability to celebrate the feasts yearly amidst logistical and halachic challenges.

Yedidayah flips the matzah on the metal baking pan.

This year, 5785/2025, as Jews around the world gathered to remember the Exodus from Egypt, Jewish communities that are spread across vast rural and semi-urban areas of Uganda were presented with familiar challenges. Chief among them was the struggle to access two essential symbols of the holiday: matzah (unleavened bread) and kosher wine, both crucial to the rituals of the seder night.

In many parts around the globe, all it takes is a trip to the supermarket if one needs to get Pesach supplies. However, in Uganda and most other African countries, the situation is different. Rarely do people manufacture kosher-for-Pesach products locally or import them in significant quantities. This has been the situation for several years, making communities either depend on different sources, stick with expensive imports, or make difficult halachic compromises.

Kulanu’s Pesach-Preparation Support

Every challenge has a solution, and, as humans, we are naturally inclined to find solutions to the problems we encounter repeatedly. Normally, everyone would have considered finding a solution for their family and community.
Fortunately, one unique individual, Sarah Nakintu, sought a solution to the “matzah drought” affecting her community of Mukono in the central region of Uganda, as well as other communities nationwide. Aside from being the founder and chairperson of the Shalom Women’s Development Network (SWODN), Sarah’s baking experience and leadership skills launched one of the first efforts to mass-produce matzah for Ugandan Jewish communities. In 2023 it was done on a small scale due to limited resources. The baking of matzah requires strict adherence to Jewish laws. It is also dependent on the use of special equipment, trained supervision, and rigorous hygiene that ought to be observed.

Recognizing these barriers, we asked Kulanu to step in. Since 1995, Kulanu has had a long- standing partnership with Ugandan Jewry, providing resources, education, financial assistance, and connections to the wider Jewish world. When the request was brought to Kulanu in 2024 for making matzah on a larger scale, Kulanu helped with what turned out to be a “test run,” with an outstanding turnout, also led by Sarah Nakintu. This year, Pesach of 5785, Kulanu did more than just provide matzah for a few. They sponsored a full-scale matzah baking operation as well as the making of kosher wine. These projects involved 22 Jewish communities representing about 95% of Uganda’s congregations.

Yowanah standing next to the stacked boxes of handmade matzot and wine for distribution to Jewish communities across Uganda.

In a historic collaboration, these 22 communities from the eastern, central, and northern parts of Uganda came together for a collective religious operation. The movement resembled a spiritual pilgrimage that saw people travel from near and very far destinations to reach the designated baking center in Mukono. Each community brought its own volunteers to take part in what felt like a national Jewish campaign. There was a tangible sense of purpose in the air as everyone joined the effort of mass matzot-baking to ensure it was widely available during the festival.

“I traveled all the way from the northern region to this place (263 km or 163 miles). Pesach has been a challenge for several years. Our financial resources are limited. Getting matzah into Apac is expensive. But, recently, Mukono has emerged as a place where we can get large quantities of matzah for our community,” Joram, beaming with excitement, told me. Jeremiah Aliro, who also hails from the northern region, shared some intriguing insights: “My community is known as Sharei Tzadek. There are now two communities in Apac — one is Conservative, and the other is Orthodox. We’re so grateful to Kulanu for their support to make sure our communities can have matzah.”

The Abayudaya “Matzah-Bake”

From further discussion, I found out that the name of their district, which used to be known as Apac in northern Uganda, has recently been changed to Kwania district; eventually the community had to change their name from Apac Jewish community to Kwania Jewish community. In fact, we had a lot to talk about, as the event was two days of non-stop matzah baking.

Two temporary baking stations were set up: one inside the building and another outside under a canopy. Each station was equipped with a set of mixing tools, a table, and a fireplace. For those baking inside, a big industrial oven powered by electricity was used, while a set of flat pans served the outdoor bakers. The pans were heated beneath by firewood, upon which the mixed, flattened, and perforated dough was placed.

Each baking session was headed by an experienced supervisor at the mixing and rolling station, and by an overall instructor moving
through all the stations to coordinate the entire process. The baking was done in a highly coordinated manner: wheat flour was measured carefully, water was stored separately and used promptly, and the clock was meticulously watched. Teams, usually made up of people from two to three synagogues, worked in rotation, ensuring that every batch was completed within an 18-minute window. While they baked, the women sang songs in Hebrew to uplift themselves and strengthen each other. This group was mostly women from the Tzyon Beit Hamitzvot Jewish Community in Mukono. They added to the overall effort of the mass baking of matzot for the rest of the communities, since the other communities were only able to bring one or two volunteers, and the hosting Mukono women outnumbered the other delegations.

Volunteers from at least four synagogues are baking matzah inside the mixing room.

Another unique aspect that the Mukono Jewish community displayed is their experience in making local kosher wine. In a smart move to avoid dependency on overseas kosher wine, their community has been making its wine for over five years. In parallel with the matzah baking, a supervised process used grapes to produce local kosher-for-Pesach wine. The supervisor was a 75-year-old grandmother and chief brewer, Yechoved Ssozi, who, along with her son and daughter, helped coordinate efforts for this historic wine-making for Pesach. And what was the result? Enough kosher wine to serve at communal seders across the country!

Live Online “Matzah-Bake” with Kulanu

On this same historical record-breaking day, Kulanu sponsored a special speakers series on Zoom anchored by Molly Levine and Rabbanit Bonita Sussman, with Rabbi Ari Greenspan as a teacher and presenter. Thirty minutes into the program, Sarah Nakintu joined as a presenter on the ground, providing live footage of the Uganda matzah baking to the international Jewish audience in real time. During her presentation, she moved through the venue, introducing the groups who were baking, and explaining the baking procedure from start to finish. You can watch the Zoom presentation here: bit.ly/MatzahBakeZoom.

Following the Zoom, which had a significant participation, it was time to take a break and have dinner. With so much left to bake, many would stay up late and continue their baking the next morning. A group led by a young chazzan in Mukono, Moshe Ben Avraham, baked until around midnight before calling it a day. In the morning, there was a Shacharit prayer, followed by breakfast, and then the matzah baking continued for the second day. The objective was to get as much matzah as possible, which would be distributed according to community sizes.

At the conclusion of a long day, their perseverance was clearly evident, as an abundant amount of hand-baked matzot was presented
before us, neatly packed in elegant white boxes piled on a table. Shortly before that, the produced wine previously stored in a big drum was carefully bottled and labeled “Shalom Wines Uganda.” Then it was time to distribute the matzot to all the Jewish communities participating in the event. From Kwania to Beth Shalom in Kampala to Luwero and Namutumba, and from the Namanyonyi Jewish community to Kawempe, two boxes of matzah and bottles of wine were given. Others include the Nasenyi and Buseta Jewish community, Nangolo, Putti, and Beit Shalom Nabweru. No doubt, with matzah and wine in hand, the seder night would come alive in various synagogues and community halls.

Some members of the beneficiary synagogues pose for a group photo at the end of the event with their matzah and wine that they received for Pesach.

Across Uganda, as Shabbat ended on Saturday night, Pesach began and the rituals of the seder unfolded —sitting around tables, washing hands, eating bitter herbs, recounting the Exodus story, children asking the four questions, and singing traditional songs such as Dayenu and Avadim Hayinu. The homemade matzah was crisp and meaningful. The wine was sweet with the taste of effort and hope.

Yosef, a representative from the Namanyonyi Synagogue in Mbale who took part in the baking at Mukono, expressed: “Kulanu really gave Uganda’s Jews massive support by providing matzah, wine, some cash for festival meals, and even our transportation to Mukono.”

In Mukono, the Tzyon Beit Hamitzvot Jewish Community hosted over 70 people in a vibrant communal first seder night. How heartwarming to see the locally made wine raised joyfully for each of the four blessings, a symbol of freedom created by their own hands. Everyone dressed up in colorful outfits as they graced the occasion, seated around the table enjoying a sumptuous meal at the end. With matzah and wine in abundance, they and many others were also able to host both nights’ seders comfortably. Each
community found its rhythm, but all were united by a shared sense of purpose: the desire to be Jewish and observant.

Nevertheless, with the success of the matzah and wine projects, communities across the country are already looking ahead. There have been calls and suggestions to continue to enhance the baking to halachic standards and make it an annual event, along with training programs for youth in kosher food preparation and the beginning of local production of other Jewish essentials.

For many, baking matzah and drinking kosher wine are more than rituals — they provide a profound sense of identity. It is evident that Judaism thrives in Africa with dignity, resilience, and strength, even in the face of limited access. The Jewish communities of Uganda, with the help of Kulanu, turned logistical hardship into religious triumphs. They built bridges across synagogues, strengthening inter-communal sect relationships, and reminded the world that freedom is not just a memory — it’s a mission.

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In the heart of Mukono, Central Ugandan district, lies the Tzyon Beit HaMitzvot Jewish community, a thriving Sephardi congregation deeply rooted in Jewish tradition. Known for its vibrant religious practices, active women’s commitment, and an energetic younger generation, the community has grown in strength over the years. However, like many developing Jewish communities in Africa, it has faced significant infrastructural challenges—one of the most pressing being inadequate sanitation.

For years, the community’s only toilet facility had fallen into a state of neglect. The structure, initially constructed with minimal resources, had endured significant wear and tear, rendering it both unsanitary and unsafe. This issue had a significant impact on women, children, and the elderly, who faced challenges due to the absence of adequate hygiene facilities. The community recognized that without a solution, the situation could lead to health hazards, discomfort, and even discourage full participation in communal activities.

Faced with this urgent need, Sarah Nakintu, leader of the Shalom Women’s Development Network (SWORN) and an advocate for community development, took action. Understanding that sanitation is a fundamental aspect of dignity, health, and Jewish life, she reached out to Kulanu, an international organization dedicated to supporting returning, isolated and emerging Jewish communities worldwide.

Kulanu’s Role in the Renovation Project

Since its creation 3 decades ago, Kulanu has long been committed to assisting Jewish communities in Sub-Saharan Africa and beyond, helping them with education, digital technology, infrastructure, food security, and religious support. When Nakintu, who is currently the acting vice president of the Sub-Saharan African Jewish Alliance (SAJA) presented the dire need for a renovated sanitation facility at Tzyon Beit HaMitzvot, Kulanu responded with generosity and a clear understanding of the community’s needs.

The renovation project, funded by Kulanu, carried out the following :

• Dismantling of the old toilet
• Rebuild and elevated the toilet structure to make it safe and durable.
• Upgrade the sanitation system to improve hygiene and health conditions.
• Build a fence to secure the area

How interesting and commendable to note that community members, including men, women, and youth, actively participated in the re-building project, working together to transform the space. The renovation was not just about improving a physical structure—it was about uplifting the community and restoring dignity to its members.

Before Renovation

The impact of the renovated toilet facility was immediate and profound. Women, who previously faced great difficulty in using the dilapidated facility, expressed relief and gratitude. For the younger generation, the project was also a lesson in community responsibility. The renovation fostered a sense of ownership and pride among the youth, who are now more motivated to contribute to future projects aimed at strengthening their community.

“This is more than just a toilet renovation—it is a transformation of our daily lives,” shared one of the women in the community. “For years, we endured unsanitary conditions, but today, we stand with pride knowing that we have a proper facility that respects our dignity.”

Beyond convenience, the new facility has also played a crucial role in improving overall health to an extent within the community. It is necessary to have proper sanitation in order to prevent the transmission of diseases, and the improved hygienic conditions have resulted in a reduction in the risk of infections, particularly among youngsters and the individuals who are elderly. A significant amount of importance is placed on cleanliness in Jewish practice, both in terms of one’s bodily and spiritual life.

After Renovation

The Jewish halakhot places a strong emphasis on maintaining a clean living environment, washing one’s hands before praying, and observing ritual purity before praying. Tzyon Beit Hamitzvot is now in a better position to sustain these traditions, since the new sanitation facility has made it possible for the Jewish community to ensure that religious and communal activities take place in an environment that is both healthier and more respectful.

“Judaism teaches us the importance of cleanliness and dignity. With this new facility, we can now fully embrace these values in our daily lives,” said one of the women from the synagogue.”

Women Leading the Way

The success of this project clearly shows the critical role that women play in community development.  Once again— through a coordinated effort that achieved the intended result— it has been demonstrated that when women take the lead, ultimately, entire communities benefit. From initiating the conversation with Kulanu to overseeing the completion of the renovation, their leadership was instrumental in making the project become a reality.

“As women, we understand the struggles our families face daily. We knew that if we did not take action, the situation would continue to worsen. Now, we have a solution, and we are proud of what we have achieved together.”

The Shalom Women’s Development Network headed by Nakintu has been at the forefront of various initiatives aimed at improving the well-being of Jewish women and families in Uganda. Their work goes beyond sanitation—spanning areas such as girls education, economic empowerment, Jewish children camping, inter-faith, public speaking, and vocational training. Through this toilet renovation project, this women-inspired project have not only improved hygiene conditions but also set a precedent for future community-driven initiatives.

Women Group Shabbat Candle Lighting

The Future of Tzyon Beit HaMitzvot

The success of the toilet renovation project has sparked discussions about further development initiatives. In the wake of things, the need to leverage support for rebuilding their Jewish community has to be prioritize. With improved sanitation now in place, the community is looking ahead to other critical needs, such as:

1. Improving access to clean water through boreholes as there is currently none in the community as it relies on an underground water source at the foot of the valley.
2. Enhancing infrastructure for Jewish learning and religious practice, such as reinforcing the current synagogue building, an improved kosher kitchen, and guest apartment.
3. Installation of solar-powered lights to lit up the shul and around it.
4. Getting fully started on its ongoing bakery community project.

The completed toilet project has shown that small yet meaningful infrastructure improvements can create lasting change in Jewish communities not just in Uganda but across Africa. By working with organizations like Kulanu and empowering local leaders, isolated and emerging Jewish communities can overcome challenges and continue to thrive. In another charity intervention by Kulanu, we saw how solar electrification is powering Hebrew learning and strengthening Judaism in Eastern Nigeria, West Africa.

Reinforced sanitation system + Fencing

One of the quickest things to notice upon visiting the community in Mukono, is the strong unity and energy shown by the women group. A majority of them are part of the founding members of the congregation since they began their return to Judaism as a group. Since then, they have remained committed and resilient as their new community pass through rough phases of growth. Their recent collective push to rescue the dilapidating sanitation system have paved the way for future initiatives, proving that advocacy, determination, and collaboration can bring about tangible change. Thanks to Kulanu’s support, Tzyon Beit HaMitzvot now has a stronger foundation—both literally and figuratively—upon which to build a healthier and brighter future.

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Hanukkah, or Chanukah, holds significant spiritual importance to the Jewish population, both in terms of history and as a season of celebration. Whenever it is Hanukkah, the first impression for the majority—another 8 days of festival as relaxing as the Sukkot—is like a repeat of the fun of lengthy Sukkot days, after going two straight months from Simchat Torah without any festival. The timing is usually fluid and thus specifically decides when Hanukkah falls, just like this most recent one, which got people greeting “Merry Xmas” and “Happy Hanukkah” at the same period. Indeed, it was an Ideal moment to strengthen our mutual coexistence with our non-Jewish neighbors.

Known as the festival of lights, Chanukah, with its significance of resilience, hope, and miracles, transports our consciousness into the past and into the lives of biblical Israelites. It was in the days of Matitiyah, a Jewish priest who led a revolt in the second century BC when the wicked Greek kingdom rose up against Israel in a campaign to compel people to abandon the Torah. A great miracle happened—firstly, Matitiyah and his sons employed a gorilla style of attack and decimated an entire Greek army. Secondly, one day oil supply burnt for an additional seven days after the city was liberated and the temple restored. In remembrance of this period, we remember the period as a time the strong were delivered into the hands of the weak, the many into the hands of the few, the impure into the hands of the pure, and the wicked into the hands of the righteous as seen in the Hanukkah “Amida.”

Joining the rest of the world, the Jewish people in Sub-Saharan African communities marked the 5785 Hanukkah festival, which began on the 25th of December and stretched into the 1st of January 2025. From Abidjan at the edge of the Western Atlantic African coast to Ethiopia at the Horn of Africa, extending southwards to Zimbabwe and across the Mozambican channel to the island of Madagascar, the hanukkiah illuminates our communities. Despite how fast-changing cultural patterns are going across borders around the continent, the people remained united by their shared Jewish beliefs. In many African homes and synagogues, the candlelight was kindled daily with the intent of basking in the consciousness of the spiritual energy available and miracles in the Hanukkah season of possibilities.

In this post, we will embark on a journey through eight Sub-Saharan countries over the eight days of Hanukkah, highlighting the vibrancy and continued practice of Jewish customs throughout the continent.

DAY 1- CAMEROON: The Light of Faith

Before lighting the first Hanukkah candle to welcome the festival of Chanukah, the Beit Bnei Yeshurun in Yaoundé, Cameroon, began the eve of Hanukkah with a communal Maariv prayer service. This was done in order to celebrate the beginning of the holiday. Rabbi Elouna Betsalel is the leader of this Jewish community, which is considered to be one of the most robust in Yaoundé and in Cameroon. In addition, we witnessed the festival celebration in Douala from Beth Adams David and from Beith Goshen in Yaoundé on the eve of Chanukah. In the message for the first day, it was explained that the first candle was a symbol of faith. This was a small beginning that was related to the unwavering belief in adhering to Jewish customs by celebrating festivals and maintaining traditions.

Tonight, we kindle the first light of Chanukah. One flame, small yet powerful, reminds us that even a little light can dispel much darkness. Just as the Maccabees stood strong in their faith, may this first candle ignite courage and hope in our hearts.

Beit Bnei Yeshurun in Yaoundé.

DAY 2- ETHIOPIA: The Strength of Unity

Ethiopia, at the Horn of Africa, with its capital in Addis Ababa, is home to thousands of certified Jewish descendants known as Beta Israel, who at a point have lived over a millennium in isolation without any contact with Jews outside the region. In 1984, and 1991, special codename military operations were launched that successfully landed more than 25k Ethiopian Jews to live in Israel as Rabbinate-recognized Jews. But unfortunately, even though they have grown to around 168k Beta Israel residing in Israel today, many are still left behind in Ethiopia. Sadly, many of them have not been able to migrate to Israel, but notably, any form of isolation has dwindled, as in the past, and through the internet, they’re connected with their brothers in Israel and the rest of the Jews in Africa.

As we light the second candle, we celebrate the power of togetherness. The Maccabees triumphed because they stood united for their values. May these two flames inspire us to build bonds of love, strength, and shared purpose.

The message of the day is about the strength of unity—the ability to reach out, cooperate, and grow that unity.  In Addis Ababa, the Abeba Kechana Jewish community powered the 2nd night of Hanukkah with an oil-lighted makeshift Hanukkiah, a gift from one of their friends in Israel. It was so wonderful to see the excitement as we got into the 2nd day of Hanukkah, which two candles were lighted, signifying the strength of unity.

Kechana Jewish Community, Ethiopia.

DAY 3- TANZANIA: Light of Peace and Rest

In Tanzania, we head over to Arusha, where we have a flourishing Jewish community, and since it was Shabbat day preparation, the message of the day was all about the light of peace for the ongoing Hanukkah and light of rest for Shabbat. Being the 3rd day of Hanukkah, coinciding with the start of Shabbat, two sets of candles were lit—one for Hanukkah and the other for Shabbat.

Tonight, as we light three flames, we also welcome the peace of Shabbat. The Maccabees fought for the right to keep Shabbat and live in holiness. May the glow of these candles bring peace to our homes and remind us that the greatest victories are those that bring light, rest, and renewal. Shabbat Shalom and Chanukah Sameach!

Since the day coincided with the only Shabbat that occurs within the festival, it was a perfect time to reflect on the peaceful coexistence of Shabbat and Hanukkah lights. This allows us to understand the Maccabees’ efforts to restore Jewish observance after the Greek soldiers overtook Jerusalem and forced everyone to abandon the ways of the Torah. Today, both the Jewish communities in Tanzania and across the Jewish world can happily keep the Jewish Halachot and commemorate this important period of victory against the enemies of the Jews throughout the festival of Chanukah.

DAY 4- COTE D’IVOIRE: Light that Grows

In Abidjan, the capital of Cote d’Ivoire, an important Pan-African gathering took place in 2022, which resulted in the birth of SAJA. Jews from over 10 African countries in Sub-Saharan Africa were present to unite and forge a path to strengthen themselves, seeking support in rebuilding their Jewish communities. For the majority of the attendees, it was truly a first-time encounter with the French-speaking Jews of Ivory Coast, one of the most thriving French communities in West Africa.

At the end of Shabbat, members of Kol Yehudah Synagogue in Abidjan, the historic venue of the first Sub-Saharan African Jewish Alliance (SAJA) meeting, gathered in full capacity for Shabbat conclusion prayers. Just like the previous evening, they lit two sets of candles for Havdallah and the 4th night of Hanukkah. By completely lighting one side of the menorah, the day’s message focuses on the expanding light, relating the fourth candle to the flourishing of Jewish life. By increasing the flames on the Hanukkiah, the hope of increasing joy and expectations in the coming week is in full assurance. The congregation in Abidjan recited in joy the Hanukkah song shortly after Havdallah. Imagine the beauty of transitioning from Shabbat to Hanukkah light—this is a rare occasion that happens most times once a year.

As Shabbat ends and we kindle the fourth candle, we reflect on the growing light of Chanukah. Just as the flames increase each night, so too may our joy, hope, and strength grow in the coming week. May the light of Shabbat linger, and the spirit of Chanukah guide us forward. Shavua Tov and Chanukah Sameach!

Kol Yehudah Synagogue

DAY 5- NIGERIA: A New Side of Light

On the 29th of December, 2024, a bright sunny Sunday, which led up to the 5th night of Hanukkah, was a day dedicated to the Jews in Nigeria to take center stage in this 8 days of Hanukkah in 8 Sub-Saharan Jewish communities. The previous evening, we saw members of the Maccabi football club of Nigeria light up the menorah after the Havdallah service in Gihon Hebrew Synagogue. It was a colorful evening service, and to see the players in smiles and high spirits in their Kulanu-branded jerseys.

Just before the 5th candle was lit, there was a Kulanu online speakers series on Zoom with children in Nigeria celebrating Chanukah. The event took place in the Association of Jewish Faiths in Eastern Nigeria. The program featured presentations from the children in the form of songs and other activities.

Tonight, as we light the fifth candle, we see one side of the hanukkiah fully glowing, and the light now begins to spread to the other side. This reminds us that when we fill our hearts and homes with light, it naturally overflows to brighten new places. May this be a sign of continued blessings and new beginnings.

The message of the day focuses on the overflowing light. This day of Hanukkah held great significance as we filled one side of the menorah and lit a new candle on the other side for the first time. The day calls for reflection on the significance of filling one side of the hanukkiah, fully and firmly positioned, and then spreading out into new territory—a new side of light.

In southern Nigeria, at the Beth Ha’arachman Jewish community, a special Hanukkah service was held that evening. It began with a Maariv prayer in the synagogue led by a young cantor, Gideon Azariah. However, prior to the mincha prayers, a group of young girls and boys engaged in a dreidel challenge. Most of the children are students of Brachot Yeshiva primary and secondary school in Akwa Ibom state. The rest were other children in the community and a non-Jewish cousin to one of the girls in the synagogue. It was a highly contested game, lasting over an hour, before the boys managed to emerge triumphant in the end.

After lighting up the menorah, there was a beautiful moment of singing, dancing, clapping, and drumming in front of the Chanukah light. In attendance that evening were some elders, mothers, and the younger male and female. Thereafter, everyone went outside, seated around different dining tables, and enjoyed a sumptuous meal to mark the 5th day of Hanukkah.

Playing dreidel in Beth Ha’arachman Jewish Community, Akwa Ibom, Southern Nigeria.

DAY 6- GHANA: The Power of Perseverance

With six candles burning bright, we are reminded of the unwavering perseverance of the Maccabees. Even when the odds seemed impossible, they pressed forward with faith and courage. May these six lights inspire us to keep going, knowing that every step brings more light into the world.

Keeping the flame alive is one of the messages of the day as members of the Ghanaian Jewish community mark the 6th day of Hanukkah. Lighting up the 6th light follows the routine of non-stop daily lighting in sequence as Jews continue to persevere till the remaining days of the festival of lights. We can liken the lighting of the sixth candle to the perseverance of Ghanaian Jews in preserving and upholding Jewish customs and traditions. In Sefwi Waiwso, in the northwestern region, the Tiferret Israel Synagogue has been a stronghold for Jewish practice in the country where Jewish faithful gather to celebrate Hanukkah.

7th candle lighting in Sefwi Waiwso, Ghana.

DAY 7 – ZIMBABWE: Nearing Full Brilliance

As seven flames illuminated the hanukkiah, they symbolized the nearing of fullness, a stage where the light of Hanukkah almost reaches its peak brilliance. This moment mirrored the journey of the Lemba Jews themselves—a journey marked by dedication, identity, and the unwavering commitment to their faith and traditions despite historical challenges. The lighting of the seventh candle in Harare was not just a celebration of Hanukkah but also a reflection of the growing unity and recognition of African Jewish communities. It represented a shared hope—that the nearly full hanukkiah reflects the progress we have made, with anticipation for an even brighter future.

Tonight, seven flames glow, almost filling the hanukkiah with light. Just as the Maccabees’ dedication brought them closer to complete victory, each small act of goodness brings us closer to wholeness and peace. May these lights remind us that even when we are near the end, every moment matters.

Harare, Zimbabwe

As the Lemba community in Zimbabwe continues to illuminate their path with courage and faith, their story reminds us that every step forward is a victory, and each light kindled brings us closer to completeness. This seventh night of Hanukkah in Harare is a call to all Jewish communities in Africa and beyond to continue nurturing their traditions, supporting one another, and striving for the unity that keeps our collective flame burning brightly.

DAY 8 – UGANDA: A Continent Illuminated

The final night of Hanukkah brought a radiant conclusion to the Festival of Lights in Uganda, where the Jewish communities of Mukono and Mbale celebrated this sacred moment. The hanukkiot were lit in the Mukono Orthodox Synagogue, the Tzon Beit Hamitzvot Jewish Community, and at Namugoya, the headquarters of the Abayudaya in Mbale, filling these spaces with the brilliance of eight glowing flames.

This eighth night of Hanukkah was a celebration of fullness—the completeness of the hanukkiah symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness, the victory of faith, and the power of unity. Across Uganda, these lightings demonstrated the interconnectedness of Jewish communities, showing how each contributes to a shared flame of hope and resilience.

For Uganda’s Jewish communities, this night was not just the end of Hanukkah but a reminder of the miracles that continue to unfold in their midst. From Mukono to Mbale, these lights represent the enduring spirit of African Jewry—a spirit that perseveres, grows, and inspires.

In Conclusion:

At the end of the 8 days of Hanukkah in 8 Sub-Saharan African Jewish communities, our aspirations are that may the energy and the miracles of the lights inspire us to persevere, grow, and shine as one people, lighting up our world with faith, hope, and love. No doubt, together we are stronger, and together, we keep the miracle alive. From Cameroon to Uganda and beyond, despite the cultural differences, this festival has shown the strength and unity of African Jewry, reflecting how communities—both large and small—preserve Jewish traditions and inspire hope for the future. Wishing everyone and their loved ones continued strength and happiness until we gather again to kindle the lights next Hanukkah.

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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.

Hebrew teaching class before Kulanu intervened..

David Yahuderek

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.

Solar panels on the roof of 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.

Maariv Prayers

“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.”

Children Hebrew class on a Sunday

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.

Hebrew learning at night

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.”

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Register now to join us this Chanukah:

Sunday, December 29

12 noon ET with Nigerian Children

AND/OR

Monday, December 30

12 noon ET with Nigerian Women’s Group

Join us for one or both sessions!

The post Two Special Zoom Events: Celebrate Chanukah with the woman and children in Nigeria! appeared first on Kulanu.

I want to share a message we recently received from Avraham, a leader of Kibbutz Avraham in Enugu, Nigeria:

We greatly delighted to receive this mail with the glad tidings for Kibbutz Avraham in Enugu Nigeria.

We are greatly honoured to be remembered as part of the worldwide Jewish community.

Thank you for making our New Year a joyous celebration.

This heartfelt note reminds us of the importance of our mission at Kulanu—to connect, support, and celebrate Jewish communities worldwide. Your generosity helps make this work possible, allowing communities like Kibbutz Avraham to feel seen, heard, and cherished.

As we celebrate Rosh Hashanah, please consider making a donation to Kulanu. All donations will be doubled. Your support helps provide essential resources, education, and connection to Jewish communities around the globe, ensuring that every Jew feels a sense of belonging.

Thank you for being a vital part of our Kulanu family. May your New Year be filled with health, happiness, and peace.

Shana Tova,

Bonita Nathan Sussman

President, Kulanu

DONATE NOW: https://secure.givelively.org/donate/kulanu-inc/rosh-hashanah-matching-gift-challenge-2024

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