Who We Are

The Sisters of Mary of Kakamega (SMK) live a vibrant community life rooted in their Charism, common mission, vows, prayer, and the sharing of all things in unity, a prophetic sign of God’s Kingdom.

Founded to proclaim the Good News and uplift the dignity of African women, the Congregation continues to respond to the needs of a world where many, especially women, face marginalization and limited opportunities. Through education, health care, social outreach, and pastoral presence, the Sisters strive to transform lives with compassion and hope.

Across East Africa and beyond, SMK Sisters serve in hospitals, dispensaries, and schools—from elementary to vocational institutions. They also provide homes for orphans, children with disabilities, the elderly, and those affected by HIV/AIDS. In the United States, SMK Sisters minister in Catholic schools, adult faith formation programs, parishes, and health care settings, offering counselling, spiritual guidance, and pastoral support.

As a religious and missionary institute, the Sisters are called by God to witness to consecrated life by sharing in the mission of Christ in the spirit of the Blessed Virgin Mary (cf. Lk 1:38). Members profess the evangelical counsels of obedience, poverty, and chastity, striving to emulate Jesus Christ in daily life and community. They use their spiritual and material gifts responsibly in service to God and neighbour, and wear a simple religious habit—grey or white—with a white veil and the institute’s medal on a blue cord.

History

Founded in 1932 by Bishop Brandsma, the SMK Sisters began as a small group of African girls trained in religious life and service. Over the decades, the Congregation has grown to serve in education, hospitals, and social outreach across Kenya and beyond.

The Congregation of Sisters of Mary of Kakamega (SMK) is of Diocesan rite, with its headquarters in Mukumu, along the Kisumu-Kakamega Road, in the Diocese of Kakamega.

The Congregation was founded in 1932 by the late Bishop Brandsma, a Mill Hill Missionary, who invited the Ursuline Sisters from Bergen, Holland, to assist with the religious formation of African girls aspiring to become sisters. Some of these young women were trained to become religious nuns to help other girls and women gain skills for self-sufficiency, improving their standard of living.

SMK grew out of the Mill Hill Missionary work and evangelization in western Kenya. Mill Hill Bishops, Fathers, and Brothers played a key role in the founding and growth of the Institute. The Ursuline Sisters of Berglam served as formators, while Msgr. Gorgonius Brandsma led the foundational work, ensuring a new generation of sisters could continue the missionary work directed by the Pope. Other Mill Hill Bishops, including Nicholas Stam, Frederick Hall, and Jan de Reeper, contributed significantly to the Congregation’s development.

Key Historical Milestones:

• 1932 – First six African girls begin their religious formation in Mukumu.
• 1939 – First two girls dress in their habit as novices.
• 1942 – First vows of the first two sisters, Angela and Ursula.
• 1952 – Approval of the first constitution; completion of the Chapel; final vows of the first six sisters.
• 1953 – Opening of Butula as the first covenant for the Sisters of Mary.
• 1963–1966 – Sr. Consolata Makokha appointed to the interim government.
• 1966–1968 – First chapter; election of the first Mother General.
• 1968–1973 – Resignation of first Superior General; emergency chapter convened; habit and veil changed.
• 1977 – Renewal chapter; committee formed to work on directives; approved by Rome.
• 1982 – Generalate handed over by Ursulines to SMK, before Bishop Sulemeti.
• 1983 – Golden Jubilee during Mother Alma’s office.
• 1992 – Diamond Jubilee during Mother Ancilla’s office; sick bay opened.
• 2001 – Proclamation of decree on the Congregation.
• 2002 – Leadership under Commissioner Rt. Rev. Fr. Patrick Kelly.
• 2005 – Name changed to “Sisters of Mary of Kakamega (SMK).”
• 2007 – Platinum Jubilee opened by Bishop Philip Sulumeti; pilgrimage to Msgr. G. Brandsma’s grave.
• 2008 – Ursuline Sisters from Bergen celebrate 75 years with SMK; amended constitution and directives approved and issued.