In Turkana County, housing has consistently been one of the most significant challenges faced by vulnerable families.. For many years, countless individuals resided in fragile structures makeshift shelters constructed from sticks, scrap metal, and polythene which provided minimal protection from the area’s severe weather. Within informal settlements, entire communities lived under the persistent threat of strong winds, flooding, and collapsing homes.
Acknowledging this urgent need, Compassion International Kenya, in collaboration with local churches in Turkana County, initiated a Shelter Improvement Initiative an impactful housing project designed to restore safety, dignity, and stability to some of the most vulnerable families.
Through this collaboration, 30 permanent homes have already been built across three church partners. Elim Church Kakuma successfully constructed 10 houses, the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) St. Paul Kanamkemer built another 10, and Deliverance Church Lodwar also completed 10 houses. For these families, homelessness and fear are now relics of the past. The new homes offer secure, stable, and dignified living conditions, shielding families from harsh weather and renewing hope for a brighter future. Children can now study comfortably at night, while parents experience proper rest, readying themselves for work and daily duties. The durable structures can endure seasonal rains that previously devastated many attas, safeguarding families from losing their homes overnight.
Jeremiah 29:11:
“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to
harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Auru frequently recall
One of the many lives positively impacted by this initiative is 10 year old Auru, an orphan from Long’ech Village in the Turkana Central region. After he lost both parents, Auru and his siblings found themselves homeless, living in a deteriorating shack constructed from scrap materials. During the rainy season, their home would flood, leaving them cold, ill, and vulnerable. Auru’s home was among the first selected for rebuilding. What was once a crumbling structure, with termite-ridden pillars and no walls for privacy, has now been transformed into a sturdy two-bedroom house built by Compassion International and Deliverance Church Lodwar. The church also provided bedding, furniture, kitchen supplies, and food, ensuring the children had a
safe and dignified home. Today, Auru’s life has taken a positive turn. He attends school consistently, and his academic performance has significantly improved; he has also experienced spiritual growth. At church, Auru recites Bible verses with confidence and sings gospel songs with ease.
