NEWS EDITION
no responses December 20, 2024
Jesuits Establish a Historic Presence in Kasau, East Yimbo – Kisumu, With Generous Land Donation
By Edward Musungu, SJ

In a historic and solemn ceremony, the Society of Jesus received a remarkable gift of 2.79 acres of land in East Yimbo, Nyamonye, Kisumu County. The property, donated by Fr. Joseph Afulo, SJ and his family, marks a significant milestone for the Jesuits’ Eastern Africa Province. The event, held on Friday, December 13, 2024, was graced by the Archbishop of Kisumu Diocese, Maurice Muhatia Makumba, who led the blessing of the ground.

The ceremony highlighted the Society’s openness to establish a Jesuit presence in this part of Western Kenya. In his acceptance speech, Rev. Fr. Kizito Kiyimba, SJ, Provincial of the Jesuits Eastern Africa Province, expressed profound gratitude to God for the extraordinary gift. He acknowledged Fr. Joseph Afulo’s selfless act of fulfilling his vows of poverty by transferring the inheritance unconditionally to the Society of Jesus. Fr. Kiyimba described the moment as a historical precedence, encouraging other Jesuits to prioritize the Society’s growth and well-being.

“This is a testament to our commitment to stewardship and service,” Fr. Kiyimba said. “The gift reinforces our mission and sets an example of trust and dedication within the province.”

Fr. Kiyimba also expressed gratitude to the Superior General, Rev. Fr. Arturo Sosa, SJ, and his council for their thoughtful deliberation and approval of the gift. This message of support from Rome underscored the strategic importance of expanding Jesuit works and establishing a sustainable presence in the region.

The Provincial praised the tight-knit Kasau community for their warm reception, emphasizing that their generosity would ensure the thriving of the Jesuits assigned to the property. He assured the family of Fr. Afulo that the burial grounds for their parents on the property would remain sacred, with access preserved for family memorials and masses.

Looking forward, the Provincial shared plans to engage the entire province in discerning the best use of the property, aligning with a directive from the Superior General. A clear sustainability plan will be developed, ensuring the property meets both spiritual and local community needs. The Jesuits will also formalize their presence in Kisumu Diocese by seeking the archbishop’s approval to operate within his jurisdiction.

In his conclusion, the Provincial extended heartfelt gratitude to all attendees, organizers, and supporters who made the day memorable. He called for prayers and support as the Jesuits embarked on this new chapter, building a sustainable and impactful presence in East Yimbo.

“May this center become a beacon of hope and spiritual renewal, transforming lives and uplifting the entire region,” Fr. Kiyimba concluded.

The newly constructed retreat house in Kasau.
The lounge area of the newly constructed retreat house.
His Grace, Archbishop Maurice Muhatia Makumba of the Kisumu Diocese, delivers a homily during the Thanksgiving Mass.
His Grace, Archbishop Maurice Muhatia Makumba, blesses the mausoleum of the parents of Fr. Joseph Afulo, honoring their legacy with prayer and reverence.
His Grace, Archbishop Maurice Muhatia Makumba, leads the solemn procession alongside clergy and faithful.
His Grace, Archbishop Maurice Muhatia Makumba, unveils the commemorative plaque for the newly constructed Retreat House in
Kasau, accompanied by Fr. Joseph Afulo (center) and Rev. Fr. Kizito Kiyimba, SJ (right), the Jesuit Provincial of Eastern Africa, during the Thanks giving ceremony. Rev. Fr. Kizito Kiyimba, SJ, receives a symbolic title deed from the Afulo Family and His Grace, Archbishop Maurice Muhatia Makumba, marking the formal handover of the 2.79 acres of land .
Rev. Fr. Joseph Afulo, SJ delivers his heartfelt speech.
Very Rev. Fr. Kizito Kiyimba, SJ, delivers his acceptance speech, expressing profound gratitude for the generous contributions and shared efforts that made establishing the Retreat House in Kasau a reality.