The Turkana of Kenya The Turkana are a nomadic tribe that lives in the isolated desert region of northwest Kenya. They live in thatch huts along dry river beds and hand dig wells in search of water for themselves and their livestock. They raise camels, sheep, and goats for their meat, milk, and blood. The men typically have multiple wives. Their clothing and necklaces are distinctive. They wear bright fabric and many beads as a sign of wealth and prosperity. Some beads are worn daily while others only come out for special occasions and ceremonies. Traditionally the Turkana are animistic. They believe in one God who has turned his back on humanity. Their ancestors however are always around them and involved in daily life, mainly punishing them for their shortcomings. Living in a world of curses and bad omens, they try to appease their ancestors through sacrifices and rituals. They live imprisoned by fear knowing they can never do enough.

Our Team's Ministries Today that is changing!  Finally through our team’s work the Turkana are hearing the good news of Jesus Christ and experiencing the peace only He brings.    The Turkana are desperately in need of church leaders and evangelists, teachers at the Turkana Bible Training Institute (TBTI) to prepare church leaders for ministry, literacy training for elders unable to read the Bible in their own language, and ESL training for church leaders to make more resources available to them.  They need medical personnel to oversee the clinic system.  The Turkana church needs youth leaders to start youth programs in the local churches as well as women’s bible study leaders.  Because of their harsh climate, they also need wells drilled and gardens irrigated to help meet their physical needs.    Thus far our team has planted over 40 churches, started the TBTI for training church leaders, opened six clinics, trained literacy teachers, and drilled 34 wells for clean water and 14 irrigated gardens.  We are excited to join them in furthering the cause of Christ and empowering the Turkana to be all God wants them to be.    We envision our ministries involving drilling wells so they have a consistent source of clean water. With these wells parents will also be able to feed their families year round through irrigated gardens.  We will research starting a youth program so children will be raised in the church, knowing their Heavenly Father and be better equipped to handle the struggles of youth, including AIDS and polygamy.  We will also be leading women’s Bible studies.  Turkana is an oral language so only though organized studies can the women grow in their personal relationship with our Savior, knowing God’s Word and intentions for their lives.

Windmill well with irrigated garden.