Seminarians from several African countries preparing for ministry at school

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Utume in Nairobi, Kenya, has been able to renovate the building housing students thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The funding transformed the living conditions of 215 people, mostly seminarians, by renovating and upgrading 23 student rooms and attached bathrooms and rehabilitating the communal student restroom.

Don Bosco Utume prepares more than 190 seminarians from several African countries for priestly and religious ministry. Over the years, the residential facilities had gradually deteriorated due to constant use and aging infrastructure, creating urgent maintenance challenges.

With the funding, the old plumbing system was replaced and upgraded with modern piping for both hot and cold water systems. This improvement significantly enhanced water pressure, eliminated leaks and restored reliability to the water supply system. Each bathroom was fully rebuilt and modernized with new ceramic tiles, sinks, toilets, faucets, shower systems and sanitary fittings. These improvements strengthened hygiene, functionality and durability.

In addition, a solar water heating system was installed and integrated into the residence infrastructure to replace the old heating system. This system guarantees reliable hot water while reducing electricity costs and promoting sustainable energy use. The communal restroom was also completely refurbished and upgraded with modern urinals, improved drainage systems and new fittings. Since this communal bathroom is used by all the students, Salesians installed a pressure pump to speed up water flow to the toilets and maintain hygiene.

Lastly, repairs were carried out to restore and improve the condition of the students’ rooms including replastering and repainting, while damaged doors and frames were replaced with more durable materials.

Father Emilius Salema explained, “When I served as administrator here, these bathrooms were among our biggest challenges. Pipes broke frequently, and the students often had to endure cold showers very early in the morning. It was not the dignified environment that young men preparing for the priesthood deserve.”

Fr. Salema expressed deep appreciation for the improvements. “The transformation is remarkable. The rooms are bright, clean and fully functional. The hot water system alone makes a tremendous difference. These improvements create a healthy environment where seminarians can concentrate on prayer, study and formation. Projects like this are not luxuries. They are essential investments in the education of future Salesian priests who will serve thousands of young people across Africa.”

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya