Michele Santorelli, an Italian philanthropist currently residing in Bulgaria, has announced plans to establish centres in rural Kenyan Coast to promote sustainable agricultural practices.
Santorelli, a long-time supporter of the Lea Mwana Children’s Home in Malindi, Kilifi county, said the centres will teach communities how to grow vegetables and fruits.
They will also learn on livestock farming and implement innovative techniques to enhance labour efficiency and product quality.
On December 31, Santorelli met with the Catholic Archbishop of Mombasa, Martin Kivuva, to dis cuss the initiative.
“We both firmly believe that faith and unity can open new paths for those in need, encouraging self-sufficiency and improving the quality of life for families,” he said.
The project will create training centres managed by local dioceses in collaboration with the government and non-governmental organisations.
“The goal is to provide communities with the necessary tools to work together, improve agricultural production, create livelihood opportunities and build a prosperous future while caring for nature,” he said.
Santorelli also revealed plans to collaborate with Bulgarian universities with expertise in cooperative projects.
These institutions will offer practical advice and support.
“With their help, we can blend tradition and innovation to address agricultural and rural challenges through practical and sustainable solutions,” he added.
On Christmas Day, Santorelli and his family hosted a grand celebration for over 60 children from the Lea Mwana Children’s Home at their residence in the Thalathamel area near Malindi town.
Each child received clothes and accessories, ensuring they felt special during the festive season.
They also had a special cake adorned with the flags of Kenya, Italy and Bulgaria to symbolise the connection between the three nations.
Santorelli also paid the 2025 school fees for all children currently enrolled, providing them with essential resources for their education.
Santorelli’s support for the Lea Mwana Children’s Home has been substantial over the years.
In May and June last year, his family provided food during challenging times and funded the repair of the orphanage’s sanitary facilities, significantly improving the living conditions.
The philanthropist has also initiated discussions with Malindi MP Amina Mnyazi on potential collaborations in education, integration and economic development between Kenya, Italy and Bulgaria.
The Santorelli family, comprising Michele and his brothers Roberto and Giovanni, is also engaged in social initiatives in Bulgaria and Italy.
Together, they manage the family foundation—Creators of Hope— which supports artists with disabilities and promotes inclusion.
Agnes Mshambala, founder and director of the Lea Mwana Children’s Home, expressed gratitude for Santorelli’s support.
“We’ve never had such a joyous Christmas celebration. Michele Santorelli has brought joy and hope to our home,” she said.
Moses Mwalimu, chairperson of the orphanage’s board of management, called on other well-wishers to follow Santorelli’s example and support the home.
Samuel Shauri, a secondary
school student at the home, also
thanked the Santorelli family and
urged more donors to assist in transforming their lives.
