Ngurunit, a remote corner at the foot of the towering Ndoto Mountains, today witnesses a missionary resurgence that unites history, faith, and hope in the local communities.
By Francisco Martínez *
Situated in the arid Marsabit County, this land has traditionally been home to pastoralist communities, especially the Samburu people, whose nomadic and resilient lifestyle has shaped the human and spiritual landscape of the region. Today, Ngurunit is not only a geographic hub but also a beacon of faith and commitment for the Catholic Church in this area.
From the First Steps to a Rooted Faith
The history of Catholic evangelisation in Ngurunit dates back to the 1970s, when Father Redento, a Fidei Donum missionary, undertook the arduous task of bringing the Gospel to the scattered communities of Korr, Illaut, Ong’eli Manyatta (now Namarei), Kargi, and Lapendera. He overcame initial hostility, the challenges of rough terrain, and cultural resistance, accompanying the Samburu families closely. Alongside local catechists like Apollo Leparnat, the first seeds of faith were sown and began to flourish over the years.
The arrival of the Salesians of Don Bosco in 1981 marked a turning point. Fathers Mathew Vadacherry, George Padinjaraparambil, and Thomas Punchekunnel celebrated the first Mass in Ngurunit, initially in a UNESCO building and later under a tree, reflecting the simplicity and unwavering commitment of the missionaries. The first Nirmala Sisters, arriving from India, provided mobile clinics and supported the pastoral work, integrating healthcare and education into the mission.
In 1983, the Ngurunit school was started under the shade of trees, thanks to pioneering teachers like Jacomina Korleite and Christine Dogo. The subsequent construction of a school building and its expansion consolidated the mission’s educational dream. In 1989, Bishop Ambrose Ravasi, IMC, blessed the Church of Mary Help of Christians, a symbol of the community’s faith that continues to grow today.
A Community Strengthening and Looking to the Future
In 2024, the blessing of the new priest residence was celebrated, presided over by Bishop Peter Kihara Kariuki, IMC—a milestone anticipating the formal establishment of the parish in May 2025. This step marks significant progress in the pastoral accompaniment of Ngurunit and its surrounding areas, where six potential outstations (Lmoti, Lependera, Mpagas, Farakorren, Illaut, and Arsim) celebrate weekly Eucharists, supported by trained and committed catechists.
The community has responded generously to challenges. Elders in Farakorren have donated land for the future construction of a church and other facilities, showing their openness and trust in the mission. Catechetical formation has been strengthened thanks to figures such as Samuel Korleite, who served for 36 years, and the dedication of new lay leaders and young people preparing to continue this legacy.
On this path of consolidation, Fr. Martin Ndumia, born in Nyeri, a Consolata missionary, has been appointed as the first parish priest of this new community. He studied philosophy in Nairobi, did the novitiate in Sagana, and theological studies in Rome, he was ordained a priest in Kenya. His arrival in Ngurunit as a pioneer represents a profound and challenging commitment: “Being the first parish priest is a delicate and demanding responsibility, but I trust that with perseverance, formation, love, and patience, the faithful will develop a sense of belonging and, together with the spirit of synodality, we will bear witness to Christ in all our activities,” shares Fr. Martin. Aware of the material and pastoral limitations, he calls upon those who wish to support the mission with resources, catechists’ formation, and infrastructure improvements to strengthen this nascent ministry.
A Day of Celebration and Commitment
On the inauguration day of the parish, 25 May 2025, not only was the church consecrated and the formal establishment of the new community celebrated, but also the weddings of six couples were blessed, a testimony to the growth of faith and Christian commitment. Three of these couples came from Ngurunit and three from Don Bosco Korr, demonstrating the fraternity and unity between the neighbouring communities.
Missionary Challenges and Outlook
Despite the enthusiasm, there are numerous challenges. The vast distances between communities make constant presence difficult. The lack of adequate roads, limited economic resources, and the nomadic lifestyle of some of the population complicate the pastoral task. Catechists require ongoing formation and monthly support to sustain their ministry. However, the mission advances steadily: Masses are celebrated in schools, faith gatherings are held, and programmes are developed for children, youth, women, and families.
In the educational field, the Don Bosco scholarship programme enables dozens of children and young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to continue their studies. Currently, more than 1,300 students attend schools in Ngurunit and neighbouring areas (Korr, Mpagas, Farakorren, Lependera, Lengima, and Lmoti). Education thus becomes a pillar for the community’s integral development and the formation of future leaders.
Illuminating Data of the Mission
- Total population: 1,665 people, of whom 216 are children (1–15 years), 177 young people (16–35 years), and 227 older adults (36+).
- Educational centres: 5 primary schools, 1 secondary school, 9 Christian churches, 1 Islamic centre, and 3 government facilities.
- Sacraments administered: 520 baptisms, 301 first communions, 183 confirmations, and 22 marriages; all this a sign of a growing faith.
- Confirmations planned: In 2025, 172 young people will receive the sacrament in Korr, Ngurunit, and other communities.
- Economic activities: The community sustains itself through livestock rearing, selling of milk, meat, honey, and local trade.
A Mission Alive with Hope
Ngurunit today stands as a symbol of resilient faith, intercultural encounter, and service to those most in need. The blessing of the new priest residence and the consecration of the parish, accompanied by celebrations such as the communal wedding of six couples, reflect the deep commitment of the Consolata Missionaries to this land and its people. Evangelisation here is not just preaching: it is education, health, spiritual and social accompaniment, a living and supportive presence.
Looking to the future, Ngurunit is poised to be a beacon of light for the peoples of northern Kenya. The mission continues to grow, facing challenges but also reaping the fruits of decades of sowing: children who now dream of becoming leaders, young catechists who sustain the faith of their communities, and a Church expanding with the power of the Spirit. On this journey, the spiritual accompaniment of Fr. Martin, together with the intercession of Mary Help of Christians, will strengthen the steps of this young parish and its communities.
* Francisco Martínez, LMC, Colombian in Kenya.
