Kenya is a vibrant and colourful country – with a diverse population made up of more than 70 different ethnic groups.

Situated on the east coast of Africa it borders the Indian Ocean and shares land borders with Sudan, Ethiopia, Somalia, Tanzania and Uganda.

The East Africa Rift Valley runs through Kenya from north to south and the Equator runs across the middle.

It can be split roughly into ‘thirds’ in terms of its environment. One third is considered arid and semi-arid desert land. Another third is highlands, mountains, forests, lakes and farmland; and the final third is savannah grassland, home to much of the wildlife we associate with East Africa.

Kenya has one of the fastest growing populations in Africa and faces significant challenges of debt and poverty. Its external debt is more than £12 million and more than 50% of the population live below the poverty line (less than $1 per day).
The early part of 2008 saw significant civil unrest and community strife following disputed presidential elections. At least 900 people died and more than a quarter of a million people have been displaced in the resulting violence – mistrust remains between communities as a result.

Mission in Kenya: Challenges and Opportunities

The main challenges faced by the Church as it engages in mission are related to poverty, illiteracy, famine and disease. As local Christians look to share the love of Christ they often find themselves responding to the needs of people in a holistic way.

In addition to key areas of evangelism and leadership training CMS Ireland’s partners in Nairobi and Kajiado are also involved in housing projects, education, water catchment programmes, youth work and farm management amongst other things. These are practical demonstrations of God’s love for His people and tangible expressions of a church’s engagement with its community.

Current global financial stresses are felt particularly keenly in the developing world, with Kenyans suffering as a result of rising fuel and food costs. Lower than average rainfall across Kenya, has exacerbated this situation, by increasing food scarcity and causing food prices to rise further.