Josephine Kwenga

Sr. Josephine Kwenga

Josephine Kwenga is a sister of St. Joseph of Tarbes-Kenya. With an academic background of higher studies in development, project management and sustainable development, she has been a school administrator and worked in the administration and leadership of the Association of Sisterhoods of Kenya's program offices in environment, gender, and justice and peace. She is currently development coordinator for her congregation's Kenyan province and works with SJT Peace Service in partnership with AGIAMONDO, a partner organization from Germany. 

By this Author

Animals graze Loldaiga Hills in Nanyuki, Kenya (Unsplash/Tourite Safaris)

In Kenya, a fence builds hope and supports grassroots change

"We have learned that impact not only happens through resources but through relationships, solidarity, trust and partnerships that do not dictate but empower," writes Sr. Josephine Kwenga.

A woman plants seeds on a farm on the grounds of Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church, March 26, 2017, in Machakos, Kenya. The farm is where they grow food for the parish and teach the local community about farming. It was through Pope Francis' teachings that Sr. Josephine Kwnega came to see farming not merely as a livelihood, but also as a sacred calling. (CNS/Fredrick Nzwili)

Pope Francis inspired regenerative farming and collaboration in Kenya

Pope Francis was a prophet for the earth. It was through his teachings in "Laudato Si', on Care for Our Common Home," that I came to see farming as a sacred calling. Laudato Si' also inspired collaboration here in Kenya.

Sisters of St. Joseph of Tarbes, who sponsor a project on "Regenerative Agriculture Through Sustainable Farming Methods" in Kenya, harvest cabbages. (Courtesy of Josephine Kwenga)

Sisters of St. Joseph of Tarbes in Kenya win sustainable development award

Receiving the prestigious People's Choice SDGs Award for our regenerative agriculture project was an exceptional experience of communion for us, not only in Kenya, but the entire St. Joseph of Tarbes family.

Sr. Josephine Kwenga prepares certificates and trophies to students during an annual commemoration of World Environmental Day in the Machakos Diocese, Kenya. (Courtesy of AOSK)

Permaculture practices grow food, skills and sustainability

In Kenya, sisters coordinated training to regenerate degraded soil and grow organic food and entrepreneurial skills to help people start projects and generate income.