EAST AFRICA

Kenya

Mission Trips

The Basics

From the Maasai bush to the slums of Kibera, Kenya’s story is as diverse as its people. The nation is home to 42 tribes, 69 languages, and 400,000 Somali refugees.

Despite its developed economy, half of Kenya’s population lives under the poverty line. Many suffer from preventable health problems like malaria, diarrhea, malnutrition, and pneumonia.

Due to rapid population growth, 73% of the population is under age 30.

Kenya has the 8th highest HIV/AIDS rate in the world, and 27% of females have undergone female genital mutilation.

Will you share God’s love in Kenya?

Culture

A firm handshake is the most common form of greeting. During introductions, men should wait for women to extend their hands. Kenyans are extremely polite and reserved, and tend to avoid eye contact during formal introductions as a sign of respect.

Never use the left hand for greetings, giving gifts, or eating.

It is considered rude to directly point at someone.

Foreigners should ask for permission before taking pictures of people.

Christians in Africa do not drink alcohol.

Explore

Kenya is famous for its wildlife. There are opportunities across the country to see lions, giraffes, black rhinos, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, and sunsets over the savanna while on safari. The country also has multiple waterfalls that are fun to explore.

Haller Park, located in Mombasa, is a wonderful place to see wildlife.

Karen has an elephant orphanage.

Nairobi has a national park, a wildlife trust, a giraffe center, and multiple museums.