A Growing Cross-Cultural Bridge Between the U.S. and Kenya

What began as a spark of friendship on a 2019 pilgrimage to Jerusalem has become a vibrant and fast-growing cross-cultural initiative. KARIBU Ministries—a Wisconsin-based partnership between Episcopal parishes and dioceses in the U.S. and the Anglican Church of Kenya—was co-founded by Canon Professor Martin Olando Wesonga, Dean of Bishop Hannington Institute in Mombasa, and Fr. Rob Davis, a priest of the Diocese of Wisconsin.

Born from a shared desire for unity and mutual understanding, KARIBU (an acronym for Kenyan American Reciprocal Initiatives Benefiting Unity, and also Swahili for “welcome”) focuses on collaborative leadership development rooted in reciprocal learning. Its mission? To build trust, deepen formation, and strengthen the global Church—together.

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From Pilgrimage to Partnership

After four years of discernment and design, KARIBU launched its first leadership initiative in 2023 in the Diocese of Machakos under the guidance of Bishop Joseph Mutungi. Since then, the ministry has rapidly expanded, training over 450 clergy across Kenya in communication, accountability, and authority.

By 2024, initiatives had reached the dioceses of Makueni and Mombasa. In September, programming expanded further into Kitui, and by January 2025, KARIBU had arrived in western Kenya, reaching Nambale, Mumias, Busia, Maseno North, Nyahururu, and Embu. As of 2025, KARIBU has been authorized to work in all 42 dioceses of the Anglican Church of Kenya.

Bishop Mutungi, now a KARIBU Board of Trustees member, joins a growing list of leaders committed to this dynamic, bilateral model.

A Two-Way Street

“KARIBU is not charity—it’s reciprocity,” said Fr. Davis. “American clergy don’t come to teach. They come to learn.”

The model emphasizes mutual benefit: U.S. clergy bring theological training and practical experience, while Kenyan clergy offer lessons in growth, community, and faith-fueled leadership in a fast-expanding church context. Lay participants are also welcomed, engaging in local ministry and experiencing Kenyan hospitality, often capped with a safari.

Conversely, Kenyan clergy gain exposure to American ecclesial culture and study opportunities through KARIBU scholarships and potential parish exchanges.

What Does It Cost?

Each KARIBU mission trip costs around $4,000 per participant and includes all travel, lodging, and programming. There are two tracks: facilitators (clergy and leadership trainers) and lay tourists. Facilitators are often sponsored; lay participants cover their own costs.

Scholarships for Kenyan theology students average $500 per semester. KARIBU currently supports six students across Associate, Bachelor’s, and Master’s programs. Parish-sponsored clergy exchanges vary in cost, but are designed to be affordable for all involved.

No Paid Staff, Just a Lot of Heart

All KARIBU staff, board members, and facilitators are volunteers. The organization runs on a lean, sustainable budget thanks to the generosity of congregations and individuals. “It’s not a job,” a team member said. “It’s a calling.”

The organization is housed at St. Boniface Episcopal Church in Mequon, WI.

Questions You Might Be Asking…

“Why support this instead of needs at home?”
KARIBU’s founders say the global Church is interconnected. As the American Church faces division and decline, the Kenyan Church is flourishing—and we have much to learn. “Fear of scarcity is a barrier to growth,” the founders write. “KARIBU invites us into a mindset of abundance, collaboration, and grace.”

“Is it safe? Will my phone work? Will there be toilets?”
Yes, yes, and… sort of. English and Swahili are widely spoken. Most modern conveniences are available. And yes, you will probably get dirty—but your perspective will be transformed.

How Can I Help?

Pray. Consistently and intentionally.
Sponsor a facilitator or student.
Join a mission trip.
Offer your parish as a hosting partner.

"This isn’t just a donation," Fr. Davis added. "It’s a way to grow together."

For more information or to support the ministry:
KARIBU Ministries, LLC
C/O St. Boniface Episcopal Church
3906 W. Mequon Road, Mequon, WI 53092