Origins and Early Beginnings

The origins of the Kisii Central SDA Church can be traced back to the missionary work of Spencer G. Maxwell in the Gusii region during the early 20th century. His efforts led to a wave of new converts, including:

  • Peter Nyanderema
  • Samuel Ongeri
  • Ogero Machoka
  • Paul Nyamweya
  • Zedekiah Nyachae
Among them, Paul Nyamweya played a particularly significant role in spreading the Adventist message throughout Kisii town, laying the groundwork for what would later become the Kisii Central SDA Church.

As the Adventist faith gained traction in Kisii, a need arose for a central place of worship within Kisii town. The Kisii Central SDA Church was founded as a response to this growing demand, serving as a hub for worship, evangelism, and community outreach. Initially, worship services were held in smaller venues before the church secured a permanent location and built a larger structure to accommodate its growing congregation.

In 1985, the late Pastor Randolf Stafford conducted one of the most influential evangelistic campaigns, which greatly inspired the formation of the new congregation. Pr. John Manani and Pr. Jameson Siika were the first pastors. Some of the earliest members of the church include Elder David Kombo and Elder Reuben Oyondi, who remain active members today.

The church was established on land next to the general hospital, previously a graveyard, with the support of the then Minister, Simeon Nyachae. Today, the church is fondly called KCC (Kisii Central Church) and continues to serve as a vibrant centre of worship, community outreach and a center for many local conference and station meetings.

Expansion and Development

As of 2025, the church’s membership has grown to 4,200. Over the years, 16 pastors have served the congregation. The pastors succeeded one another in the following order:

  • Pr.John Manani

  • Pr. Peter Obegi

  • Pr. Andrew Mititi

  • Pr. Joel Okindo

  • Pr. Obed Nyamache

  • Pr. Nathan Oirere

  • Pr. Samwel Makori

  • Pr. Mathew Nyoteyo

  • Pr. Paul Kiage

  • Pr. Benson Ongoa

  • Pr. Samson Omwange

  • Pr. Tom Miyienda

  • Pr. Geoffrey Ombati

  • Pr. Fred Ogoi

  • Pr. Joseph Ondieki

  • and currently Pr. George Morara Nyambati

    On the other hand, the first church elders succeeded one another in the following order:

    • Jameson Siika
    • Stephenson Maturi
    • Wilfred Nyamache
    • Daniel Ratemo(serving a second time)
    • Fred Momanyi
    • Daniel Ratemo
    • Prof. David Ogoti
    • David Kombo
    • Prof. David Ogoti(serving a second time)
    • William Nyangara
    • John Ndemo
    • and currenly Dr. Peter Mose
    This growth is reflected not only in membership but also in infrastructure and ministry expansion.

    Various ministries—including the Elders’ Council, Deaconry, Personal Ministries, Youth Ministry, Children Ministry, Adventist Men and Women Ministries have played a crucial role in strengthening the church’s spiritual and social impact.

    The church remains actively engaged in evangelism, education, and community service. Several districts have been established as part of its expansion, including

    • Jogoo
    • Gekomu
    • Botori
    • Matoke
    • Nyamataro
    • and Kisii Newlife, each with multiple churches.
    The church’s ministry has also extended to regions such as Transmara, Bomet, and Riana in Kisii County.

    Present-Day Influence

    Today, Kisii Central SDA Church is a vibrant hub of worship and spiritual growth, serving as a beacon of faith in the region. Committed to its mission, the church actively supports evangelism, education, and social development while upholding the core beliefs of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. It also plays a vital role in supporting local conferences and union activities.

    Beyond its spiritual mission, the church remains deeply engaged with the community through charitable initiatives, including financial contributions, medical camps, and feeding programs, demonstrating its commitment to service and compassion. The church is a pillar of faith, actively collaborating with the national government, county authorities, and various institutions to foster spiritual growth, community development, and social well-being. Through these partnerships, it continues to uphold its service mission while reinforcing societal moral and ethical values.

    Sabbath Worship Programmes in Schools

    The Kisii Central church conducts Sabbath School services in several schools including:

    • The Elimu Academy
    • Kiage Tumaini High School
    • Kisii School
    Recently, Kisii central established a Sabbath School at Riana, in Bonchari.

    Join us

    We invite you to be part of our church family. Whether you are new to the faith, seeking a deeper connection with God, or looking for a welcoming community, you are always welcome at Seventh-day Adventist Church Kisii Central. Join us for worship, Bible study, and fellowship as we grow together in Christ.

    May God bless you abundantly as we journey together in faith and service!