In the vast and arid landscapes of Marsabit, Kenya, where challenges of drought, poverty, and tribal conflict persist, Father António Alexandre da Rocha Ferreira, affectionately known as Fr. Alex, has dedicated decades of his life.

Born in Portugal in 1943, Fr. Alex embarked on his missionary journey at the age of 20 when he joined the Comboni Missionaries, a decision sparked by a deep sense of justice and a desire to make a difference in Africa.

“I thought it was a question of justice,” Fr. Alex recalls. “If I could do something for this continent that seemed so in need, it was my duty to act.”

His journey led him first to Kenya in 1977, where he was assigned to a mission in Murang’a Diocese, at a place called ‘Kachenchiro’. It was here that Fr. Alex began his immersion into the local communities, learning their languages, customs, and facing the stark realities of poverty exacerbated by recurring droughts.

Reflecting on his early years, Fr. Alex shared, “Our pastoral concern was mainly evangelization and preparing communities for sacraments like adult baptisms. The challenges were immense, especially with the frequent droughts that devastated pastoralists’ livelihoods.”

After initial years in Murang’a, Fr. Alex was later assigned to Naivasha in the Diocese of Nakuru, where he continued his mission work for another two and a half years. His commitment to the pastoral care of the communities became evident, as he worked tirelessly to establish and nurture faith communities amidst socio-economic challenges.

“In Naivasha, we faced different dynamics,” he remarked. “There was still a strong need for evangelization and pastoral support, but the community’s needs were unique to their context.”

Fr. Alex returned to Portugal after five years in Kenya, spending eight years in service there before his return to Kenya in 1990. This time, he was posted in Ongata Rongai, witnessing firsthand the rapid growth of the area from its humble beginnings to what it is today.

“Ongata Rongai was vastly different when I returned in 1990. What was once a small mission with several outstations has now blossomed into multiple parishes,” he reflected.

In 1994, Fr. Alex’s journey took him to Moyale, where he was called upon to replace a colleague who had fallen ill. His role expanded to Vicar General of the Diocese of Marsabit, a position that saw him deeply involved in the administrative and pastoral life of the Church in a region fraught with tribal tensions and occasional outbreaks of violence.

“The challenges of peace and security were ever-present,” he said. “We often found ourselves mediating conflicts and providing pastoral care in volatile situations.”

During his tenure in Marsabit, he witnessed the closure of missions in Moyale and ‘Sololo’ due to logistical and personnel constraints, a decision he understood was necessary but difficult for the affected communities.

“We had to rationalize our commitments due to personnel shortages,” he explained. “It was a challenging time, but we continued our mission with a focus on education, healthcare, and community development.”

Under Fr. Alex’s leadership, the Comboni Missionaries expanded their role beyond evangelization to include substantial contributions in education and healthcare. By the late 1990s, the diocese had established multiple health facilities and schools, surpassing government efforts in the region.

“We believed in holistic development. It wasn’t just about preaching; it was about empowering communities to thrive amidst their challenges,” he affirmed in an interview with New People Media.

The early 2000s brought moments of profound sorrow and resilience for Fr. Alex and the community, as they navigated through massacres and tribal conflicts that tested their resolve and faith.

“Those were dark times, the massacres in Torbi and other areas shook us to the core. Yet, we found solace in our faith and in our mission to bring peace and healing to those affected,” Fr. Alex reflected somberly.

Despite the challenges, he found immense joy in his work, particularly in the sacraments of initiation and in witnessing the growth of faith communities over the years.

“For me, the sacraments of initiation were always moments of great joy,” he shared warmly. “To see individuals and families embrace their faith and become active members of the Church was deeply fulfilling.”

As the Comboni Missionaries celebrate their 50th anniversary in Kenya, Fr. Alex believes the future lies in empowering local communities and engaging laypeople more actively in the Church’s mission.

“We need to involve the laity more in evangelization and community development,” Fr. Alex asserted. “They are our partners in spreading the Gospel and building resilient communities.”

Looking ahead, Fr. Alex remains committed to his vocation and the people of Kenya, guided by a steadfast belief in service and justice.

“As long as there is work to be done and lives to be touched, I will continue to serve,” he affirmed with a smile.

Fr. Alex’s unwavering commitment to Africa and his missionary work remains evident as he continues to champion initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable growth and resilience. Looking to the future, he envisions a continent where every community has the tools and support needed to overcome adversity and flourish independently.

Thank you for reading our article. Subscribe to our magazine, *New People*, to stay informed and updated.

By Nerus Akatsa