In Western Kenya, the growth of the Mennonite Church was closely linked to local needs and culture, engaging meaningfully across borders. Early influences from Tanzania paved the way for a strong religious presence in the Suna area, driven by African Christian missionaries like Zedikia Kisare. Despite initial resistance from the Kenyan government in 1945, persistent advocacy by individuals such as Jonathan Mabeche and Clyde Shenk led to official church recognition in 1965.