Transforming education in Western Kenya

Project Touchline’s sports ministry programme has been adapted for Schools in Western Kenya. This was achieved through a meaningful partnership with the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) Diocese of Mumias. Specifically, in August 2023, 20 school chaplains underwent comprehensive online training to effectively deliver the program in local schools. Subsequently, the pilot phase commenced in January 2024, marking a significant step toward integrating faith and sports in education. Schools in Western Kenya are benefiting from strategies originally developed in England and Wales. Project Touchline seamlessly blends collective worship with sport. For instance, each session begins with worship to theologically anchor Christian values. This is followed by dynamic, games designed to encourage, empower, and enable students to embody virtues such as respect, trust, perseverance, and love.

Prayer and the development of Christian spirituality

Moreover, the programme places prayer and the development of Christian spirituality at its core, fostering not only spiritual growth but also character development. Importantly, it promotes inclusivity and equality, aiming to transform student behaviour through engaging, value-driven activities. On February 20, 2024, the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) Diocese of Mumias actively launched Project Touchline at St. Stephen’s, Kamashia School in Western Kenya. All Saints’ Church, Bisley, Gloucestershire, generously donated sports equipment. Through collective worship and engaging activities, chaplains inspire students to embrace Christian values like respect, trust, perseverance, and love. They actively foster spiritual growth and character development in an inclusive environment.

Enabling and empowering school chaplains

Consequently, this support has enabled chaplains to effectively implement the program across Schools in Western Kenya. It created a nurturing environment where students can grow spiritually and socially. Ultimately, Project Touchline in Western Kenya exemplifies how faith-based sports initiatives can inspire and uplift young lives. It builds a foundation for positive change.

Our first school outside of the UK was St Stephen’s, Kamashia School in Kenya. It marked the beginning of engagement with the diocese and illustrated the reach and impact of Project Touchline among Schools in Western Kenya.

Rugby project will bring hope to Kenyan schoolchildren

Church Times provides more insights into Schools in Western Kenya benefiting from this programme.