The Bishop Of Mombasa, Rt. Rev. Dr. Alphonce Mwaro Baya, visited four Trust Groups ACK Chirima Chauha, Mabamani, ACK Dumbule and ACK Miloeni —to witness the impact of the MCDT empowerment program. Highlights of the visits
The Rt. Rev. Dr. Alphonce Mwaro Baya had the opportunity to witness the resilience and determination of the ACK Mabamani Trust Group. Formed in 2022 with just nine committed members, the group has faced significant challenges both in their development as a group and as a church community.
A major setback has been the poor state of their church structure, which has remained in disrepair for some time. This has not only hindered spiritual growth but has also led many congregants to leave, causing discouragement among group members. Some even left the Trust Group, leaving only the original nine who have remained faithful and determined.
Despite these difficulties, the remaining members have continued with their monthly savings, united by a shared hope for a better future. Their dream is to pool their resources, seek support from well-wishers, and eventually rebuild their church. They also aspire to strengthen their evangelism efforts, believing that with faith and perseverance, they can restore their church and grow their fellowship once again.
During a the visit to ACK Miloeni Trust Group, which consists of 17 dedicated members, we witnessed firsthand the impact of empowerment through the MCDT program. The group was filled with joy and appreciation as they warmly welcomed the Bishop, expressing their heartfelt gratitude for his visit. It was a moment of celebration and testimony, as many members shared how the program had transformed their lives. Through access to low-interest loans, individuals have been able to improve their living standards and invest in meaningful ventures.
One particularly inspiring story came from Mwamwenda Chirima Kutoka, a youth from the community. Mwamwenda shared how he was able to access a loan through the Trust Group, which he used to raise capital and acquire a motorbike from an asset financing company. This motorbike has since become his primary source of income, providing him with stable self-employment. Now able to support his family, Mwamwenda’s life has changed significantly for the better. His success has inspired many, and he has become an active ambassador for the group, encouraging fellow youths to join and take advantage of the opportunities offered through the empowerment program.
The visit was made even more meaningful as the Bishop took time to speak to the members, congratulating them on their commitment, resilience, and progress. He offered words of advice and encouragement, urging them to continue working together, supporting one another, and remaining faithful in their journey. His presence and message uplifted the group, leaving them even more motivated to grow and empower others in their community.
Empowerment through the MCDT program, guided by the inspiring motto "Start Small, Grow Big," has transformed the lives of members in the ACK Chirima Chauha Trust Group. With 16 committed individuals, the group has embraced the spirit of self-reliance and growth despite the harsh climate conditions in their region.
Through the support of MCDT, they began a small bread-making initiative that has since become a vital source of income and food security. By selling bread, they not only sustain their families but also ensure no one sleeps hungry—a reality they proudly describe as "kufukuza polisi." This empowerment journey was witnessed firsthand by the Bishop of the Diocese The. Rt. Rev. Dr Alphonce Mwaro Baya on the 9th of April when he visited the group and saw how their efforts are creating real, lasting change.
Women in the group also testified how they have been able to access loans to educate their children, a powerful example of how starting small can lead to a brighter future
Mombasa Community Development Trust is a program that is in partnership with Five Talents Organization, a UK faith based organization. MCDT is a program under the A.C.K DIOCESE OF MOMBASA. The Diocese of Mombasa covers three counties; Mombasa County, Kwale County and parts of Kilifi County.
Emmanuel Church Kengeleni, was established by the CMS in 1889 to provide a place of worship for freed slaves in Mombasa. It was under Frere town settlement and is named after Sir Bartle Frere, who played a significant role in abolishing slavery and slave trade in East Africa in 1873.....
Tn 1962, the then Bishop of (the former) Mt. Kenya Diocese, the late Obadiah Kariuki, had a vision for young people. He established the Anglican Youth Organization (AYO) with the main aim of bringing the young people back to the mainstream of the Church of Christ. In 1964, the bishop launched the Diocesan Anglican Youth Organization at the St. Paul’s Mother Church, Kabete and he commissioned a Youth Committee to carry on the extension work in the Diocese.