HISTORIC MILESTONE: LATTER-DAY SAINTS OPEN FIRST TEMPLE IN EAST AFRICA.
BY NJOKI KARANJA.
In a momentous step for religious growth in the region, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has officially opened its first temple in East Africa, located in Nairobi’s Mountain View area along Hinga Road. This development marks a significant spiritual and cultural milestone for over 80,000 Latter-day Saints across seven countries in the region.
Known as the Nairobi Kenya Temple, this sacred edifice is the 204th temple globally for the Church and the first to serve East Africa. A public open house commenced this week, giving visitors the chance to explore the temple and gain insight into its religious significance before its formal dedication on May 18, 2025.
Speaking during a media tour, Elder Thierry Mutombo expressed deep reverence for the occasion, stating, “We are humbled to witness God’s love and tender mercies in blessing the Saints and their families on both sides of the veil.”
The temple will serve members from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Burundi, and South Sudan. Until now, Latter-day Saints in these countries traveled to the Kinshasa Democratic Republic of the Congo Temple for sacred ordinances such as eternal marriages and baptisms.
Church members view temples as the “house of the Lord,” places where families are sealed for eternity, and where worship and sacred covenants deepen their faith. Following its dedication by Elder Ulisses Soares of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, only worthy Church members will be permitted to enter.
The Church’s journey in Kenya began in 1979 with its first baptisms, and by 2001, it had established its first stake. Today, Kenya is home to over 19,200 members and nearly 70 congregations, signifying steady growth over four decades.
The Nairobi Kenya Temple stands not only as a symbol of religious dedication but also as a beacon of hope and spiritual unity for thousands across East Africa.
