Children help Children: Diocese of Kakamega Holy Childhood make pilgrimage of Hope to Lodwar

Sr. Christine Masivo CPS

The Diocese of Lodwar in Turkana County serves the pastoralist Turkana people and border communities. The area is known for its vast, arid terrain, challenging conditions of drought, and the lack of accessible roads. Lodwar is about 330 Kilometres from Kakamega.

Guided by the enduring motto of the Pontifical Society of Missionary Childhood, “Children help Children,” the children and adolescents of Kakamega Diocese worked tirelessly to raise awareness and some funds for their peers in Lodwar.

Strengthening missionary identity

“This visit was a powerful gesture of collaboration and shared responsibility,” remarked Bishop John Mbinda of Lodwar. “It gives concrete expression to the missionary spirit and strengthens the identity of the movement, especially at a time when resources have significantly declined. These children have set a remarkable example, one that the diocese and groups are called to emulate,” he said.

The initiative was also warmly welcomed by the Director of the Pontifical Mission Society (PMS) of the Diocese of Lordwar, who described the children’s visit as “a great blessing.” He emphasised the importance of cooperation and mutual support among dioceses within African countries.

Unity across regions

Throughout their stay, the young pilgrims actively participated in the life of the local church, sharing rosaries, educational materials, and food -thus fostering bonds of friendship and mutual understanding. Holy Mass was celebrated in Lodwar, led by the Bishop. It was a unique moment that brought together children from the two dioceses.

The pilgrims also visited the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.

Impact of encounter

Fr. Godfrey Sechero, the Diocesan Director of the PMS in Kakamega and the group's leader, underscored the profound impact of the encounter between the children.  “We want the children to understand that we are all one people,” he explained, “even though we live in different geographical areas and climates.”