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In Turkana County, Kenya, solar-powered mills aren’t just grinding maize — they’re helping communities grind away poverty and hunger.
Earlier this year, Agsol solar-powered mills were introduced in five church networks (local groupings of 20-30 churches) graduating from World Relief’s Church Empowerment Zone (CEZ) programming. As part of the CEZ program, church leaders were equipped and mobilized to promote the flourishing of their communities. In this spirit, the graduating church networks marked the occasion by launching new, income generating projects, including the solar-powered mills.
At World Relief, we believe the most powerful and lasting change happens when local churches are equipped to lead. In Turkana County, Kenya, we’re already seeing how a simple tool in the right hands — a solar-powered mill — can become a source of nourishment, income and hope for entire communities.
Small Mills Make a Big Impact
Unlike traditional diesel mills, which are expensive to operate and often break down, the solar mills are environmentally-friendly, efficient and easy to use. The mills also promote economic well-being on multiple fronts.
First, they are less expensive to operate, saving families money on milling costs. This also means flour produced by the mills can be priced more affordably, increasing access to food. Second, local residents no longer need to travel long distances to mill their maize, saving time and money. With more money in hand, families can buy fruits and vegetables, improving nutritional health. And finally, the mills generate income for the local church networks, who invest that money back in community projects to help those in need.
Church network chair Christopher Akula explained, “Since the [mill] was given to us by World Relief to help us, we thought it was right to extend that help to others.” The networks use additional income to purchase food staples like maize, sugar, flour and oil, which they either sell at an affordable rate or donate to those in need. During times of drought or scarcity, this food is a lifeline.
In one town, Kankurudio, the church network uses funds to employ a young man named Ekalale to run their mill, ensuring it operates smoothly and providing stability for his family. “I’m now able to support my elderly parents who relied solely on aid,” Ekalale said, “I can buy food for the family and purchase books and stationery for my siblings in school.”
Church network leaders are already speaking of what’s next: They plan to purchase motorcycles to increase community members’ mobility in the region and create new income streams. It’s another bold, community-driven step forward.
Transformation Starts with the Church — And With You
The transformation we create together isn’t quick or easy. It takes trust, partnership and long-term commitment. But when local communities take the lead in their own story of transformation, they flourish.
We see this principle playing out in Turkana County and in communities around the world. And you can be a part of their transformational story. Together, we can continue to support locally-led, sustainable solutions that lift families out of poverty and reflect God’s heart for restoration.
Will you join us in walking with families and communities around the world?
Loise Apua is a Communications Intern at World Relief Kenya, where she helps shape narratives that highlight impact and inspire transformation. She previously volunteered at the County Government of Turkana, Kenya. With a background in broadcast kournalism, she is passionate about harnessing the power of storytelling to inspire and drive change in our communities.
Stephen Muchoki serves as a Communications & IT Officer at World Relief Kenya, fuelled by a deep passion for elevating real-life stories of transformation born from program initiatives in local communities. Combining his extensive IT expertise with a genuine heart for people, he harnesses digital tools to creatively spotlight inspiring journeys, turning meaningful community experiences into powerful messages of hope and lasting change.