ANDOVE GERALD ISINDU

Andove Gerald Isindu was born on July 14, 1952. He grew up in Shinyalu with his seven siblings, and he was the fourth child in the family.

Andove's education started later than usual in 1970 because his family lacked the money for school fees. Although one of his older brothers was supporting six of his own children, he couldn't afford to pay for Andove's schooling. Andove managed to reach Standard Four before he had to drop out.

After leaving school, Andove found work as a casual laborer. He spent about a year and a half cleaning at a local high school, doing tasks like cutting grass.

In 1981, Andove decided to seek better opportunities in Nairobi. There, he found a job at a company called "Make Mandal and Cushions," which made car mattresses and cushions. He worked there for two years and was able to save some money.

With his savings and a contribution from his brothers, Andove purchased a plot of land. This land became the foundation for his home.

Andove married in August 1976 and had 7 children. "I am now left with six children one has since passed away," he states.

His wife passed away in 2000 after they had been separated for many years. She had remarried and settled in Turbo. During her burial, Andove and his children had a disagreement. He wanted her body to be taken to Turbo for a night before being brought to Kakamega for burial. His children refused, and in his anger, Andove refused to attend the burial. He also told his children not to return home, instructing them to stay where their mother was buried. Sadly, his children have not been back since.

Since their mother's departure, his children have faced difficulties. Some have run away from school. When this happened, Andove would seek assistance from children's services, who would provide him with a letter to get them back.

As he has grown older, Andove is no longer able to do casual labor. He acknowledges that he can no longer manage such work.

Currently, he lives in his third home, which was built by one of his daughters.

"I have never received any money from my daughters, not even clothes," Andove says, highlighting the strain in his relationship with them.

Despite these challenges, one of his daughters helped him build a house with iron sheet roofing. However, this wasn't enough to solve all his problems.

A positive turning point came when Andove was introduced to Mama Ibado on October 3, 2024.

Through Mama Ibado, he now receives essential supplies such as a bag of maize flour, flour for making porridge, and milk.

Andove is grateful to Mama Ibado and her assistants for their kindness and support.

As he faces the challenges of old age and limited resources, Andove needs ongoing support to meet his basic needs, have access to medical care, and live a dignified life. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated to improve his well-being.