Hope Grows in the Desert as Church Builds School Buildings in Lodwar, Kenya

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Kanamkemer Primary School, located in the desert of Northwest Kenya, is the largest school in Turkana County with 3200 students -- 1200 of which are boarders there -- but until recently, the student population far exceeded the facilities available. 

Under these conditions, there were 12 classes of students who were required to meet outside, under trees.  Many of the students boarding there also had to sleep outdoors, and there were problems with water and sanitation, due to inadequate supplies and facilities. 

Nearby Canaan Primary School currently faces similar challenges; 1,422 students with only 6 pit latrines, an inadequate water supply, and many students having to sit on the dusty ground under trees to receive their daily lessons because of lack of classrooms.  The situation had gotten so grave that the school was in danger of being shut down, which would have left the children with no way to get an education.  Fortunately, help was already on the way. 

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, partnering with the International Religious Council of Kenya (IRCK) and UNICEF, had already identified the needs of these two schools and were in the process of improving life for the students and teachers at each. 

For Kanamkemer Primary School this included building 7 new classrooms—furnished with new desks -- along with an administrative office, a water tower and pump, 5 water stations, a block of new washrooms, and separate toilet facilities for the teachers.

On 25 February 2026 the Church and its partners handed over a symbolic ‘key to the school’ to school administrators amidst cheers from students, parents, and other community members and leaders.  In a formal handover ceremony Mr. Linus Nthigai, Executive Director of the IRCK, spoke, thanking the Church and saying it was through the support of the Church that they were able to officially hand over the new facilities to the school. 

Representing the Church, Joshua Muchiri Njoroge, Africa Central Area Controller, stated, “We are not just handing over a building, or any physical structure, but we are also handing over a space of hope, a sanctuary of learning, and a foundation for future generations.”  He spoke of education being one of the greatest gifts we can offer our children, shaping their minds, their dreams, and ultimately their futures. 

Referring to the project as a good example of how proper collaboration between different religions can bring great blessings to communities he added, “Therefore we have built, not just walls and roofs, but also a  bridge between faith, churches, and communities; proving that when we work together for the common good we can accomplish truly extraordinary things.”

The attendees were treated to lively song and dance performances by the students, which added to the spirit of joy and celebration felt at the event. 

The next day, the same spirit of joy and hope was felt as a groundbreaking ceremony took place at nearby Canaan Primary School.  Once again children and their families, along with church, community, and school leaders, gathered to celebrate a new beginning and brighter future for the children attending school there, as well as for future generations. 

Children of Canaan school kicked off the event by reciting, in unison, a beautiful poem of gratitude which began with the phrase, “We grateful hearts, we thank you today, for the helping hand you have given our way,” which set a beautiful tone of gratitude and hope, which was felt throughout the event. 

The school’s headmaster, Mr. William Lokwee, spoke of the myriad challenges the students, teachers and administrators have endured, citing the most pressing challenge as being the inadequacy of the classrooms.  “You can imagine” he explained, “in the 21^st century, learners learning under a tree.  When there are winds and maybe rain like this,” (referring to the light rain that was falling) “there is no more learning.”

To help alleviate problems at the school, the Church has contracted to construct 8 additional classrooms, 8 pit latrines, provide new desks for the students, and additional water points.

Church Area Humanitarian Manager, Denis Mukasa, explained how the money for projects such as these comes from individual members of the Church across the globe who “come together because of the love of the Savior Jesus Christ.”   He spoke of the desire members have to share His love and referred to Matthew 22:39, and the importance of loving our neighbor as we love ourselves.  He added, “We do this work regardless of religion, race, color, creed, or anything that is distinguishing.  We do this without expecting anything in return.  We do this for the benefit of the community.”  He ended his remarks by expressing his gratitude saying, “Thank you very much for welcoming us, and we hope the facility that we build here will bless your lives.”