Writers’ Retreat Centre by CLC Kenya

A Haven for Christian Writers in Oltepesi, Tinga

Magadi Road · Kajiado · 68.8kms from Nairobi's CBD

Located in the serene and remote landscapes of Kajiado, CLC Kenya’s Writers’ Retreat Centre is envisioned as a peaceful home for creative minds seeking solitude, inspiration, and spiritual focus. Surrounded by rolling hills, open spaces, and the quiet sounds of nature, it will offer writers a distraction-free environment for deep thought, prayer, reflection, and purposeful writing.

Writing. Publishing. Ministry. Legacy.

In its final phase, the retreat centre will also welcome churches and ministries for services, seminars, retreats, and communal gatherings through a well-designed chapel or meeting hall equipped for worship and presentations.

The property will host the headquarters of CLC Kenya, ACABA, and MABB, including the publishing and printing department.

A peaceful writing and retreat environment for Christian authors.
A future ministry space for churches, seminars, and gatherings.
A permanent home for publishing, printing, ACABA, and MABB.
A vision to increase Christian literature for faith and maturity in Jesus Christ.
3D Rendering

Donation Line:

+254 720817962

Construction Progress Map: Click Below to Go to Any Step of Our Journey

Latest updates at the top

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3D Renderings

By Diams Engineers

3D Renderings
Variation 1: Cladded Wall
Variation 2: Black-Key Pointing
Variation 3: Key Pointing
Variation 4: Brown-Yellow Stones
68.8kms Away from Nairobi

Is Tinga, Oltepesi a Strategic Location?

A quiet place today. A wise investment for tomorrow.

01

We Are Thinking About the Future

The choice of land along the upcoming Suswa highway is a forward-looking investment. As Nairobi continues to expand, the areas around it are gradually becoming more integrated into the city’s infrastructure. Just as Thika Town transformed from a distant outpost to a thriving community connected by the Thika Superhighway, the same pattern is expected for the area surrounding CLC Kenya land. The planned highway will make the location more accessible, potentially turning what may seem like a remote area now into a sought-after destination. By establishing CLC Kenya now, we position ourselves advantageously for the future, ready to serve a growing community as it develops.

02

We Are Thinking of Appreciation

The story of Good News Production International is a powerful example of how strategic foresight can yield significant returns. Their decision to establish their offices in what seemed like a remote area has paid off, with their premises now situated in a prime location valued at KES 100 million. This illustrates the potential for substantial appreciation in property value, a benefit we anticipate for the CLC land as well. As Nairobi’s urban sprawl extends, properties that were once considered peripheral will likely become highly desirable. By investing in this land now, we are not only ensuring a peaceful and conducive environment for writers but also laying the foundation for future growth in value.

03

We Are Riding on Our Culture

Our society’s tendency to retreat out of town for weekend projects and discussions is a cultural aspect that CLC Kenya is poised to tap into. The notion of driving an hour out of the city for scheduled programmes, whether for personal development or spiritual retreats, is not only accepted but embraced. This cultural practice aligns perfectly with CLC Kenya’s vision of being a serene getaway where individuals and groups can disconnect from the hustle of the city and focus on creativity, learning, and spiritual growth. The distance from Nairobi, rather than being a hindrance, becomes an integral part of the experience, offering a space that feels like an escape yet remains accessible.

In conclusion, while the distance from Nairobi might initially seem like a challenge, the strategic foresight behind choosing this location ensures that CLC Kenya will be well-positioned to serve both the present and future needs of its community.

Site House & Foundation Slab! February-May 2026

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April 2026 Progress Update

Foundation Slab Concreting Underway!

We are delighted to share that concreting of the foundation slab has officially commenced at the Oltepesi HQ site.

This is an exciting step as the vision continues to take tangible form. During this phase, the team encountered sandy soil conditions, which presented a technical consideration. However, this was addressed with care and expertise by reinforcing the foundation with additional metal bars and strictly adhering to the approved structural plans and quality standards.

We are encouraged by the diligence on site, ensuring that no compromises are made where strength and durability are concerned. What could have been a setback has instead become an opportunity to build even stronger.

With each layer laid, we move forward with confidence, knowing that we are establishing a firm and lasting foundation for the future of CLC Kenya.

Last Week of April 2026

Stone-Laying Stage Begins at Oltepesi HQ

The last week of April, construction at the Oltepesi HQ progressed to the stone-laying stage, following the successful completion of trenching, steel reinforcement works, and concreting. This is an encouraging milestone as the foundation works are now visibly taking shape on site.

With each stage completed, the vision for CLC Kenya’s permanent home becomes more tangible. We remain grateful for the steady progress and for the teams working faithfully to ensure the foundation is built with strength, care, and excellence.

Support the Construction

#1 Watch the Trench Concreting Progress

A glimpse into the ongoing construction works at the Oltepesi HQ site as the foundation slab takes shape.

#2 Watch the Foundation Stone-Laying Progress

The foundation works visibly take shape as construction progresses to the stone-laying stage at the Oltepesi HQ site.

#3 Watch Placement of DPM Paper, BRC & Hardcore

Watch the placement of DPM paper, BRC, and hardcore as the foundation works continue at the Oltepesi HQ site.

March 2026 Progress Update

Foundation Work: Trenching Commences!

Another significant milestone as the Oltepesi HQ site moves from preparation to visible structural development.

In March 2026, we marked another significant milestone as trenching for the foundation officially began at the Oltepesi HQ site. This phase signals the transition from preparation to visible structural development, as the outlines of the future buildings are now being set on the ground.

The trenching works lay the groundwork for the foundation slab of the administration block, bringing us one step closer to establishing a permanent home for CLC Kenya.

It is a moment of great encouragement—what has long been envisioned is now taking physical shape.

Photos and videos are below.
February 2026 Progress Update

Establishing a Functional Site Base!

A more stable and practical base has been established to support the ongoing works on the Oltepesi land.

To support the ongoing works on the Oltepesi land, a site house has been constructed, providing a more stable and functional base for operations. This addition complements the existing iron sheets structure, which continues to house construction workers and secure building materials on-site.

Together, these structures ensure that the project is well-supported in its early stages, offering both accommodation and storage as we prepare for the next phases of development.

Photos and videos are below.

Google Maps, GroundBreaking, Trees & Fruits! November 2025-January 2026

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Oltepesi Land Update

The Land Begins to Bear Fruit!

A small but powerful sign of life, provision, and promise on the Oltepesi land.

Even before construction has fully begun, the Oltepesi land has begun to bear fruit—literally. We are delighted to share that watermelons have been harvested on the land, a small but powerful sign of life, provision, and promise.

What was once bare ground is already yielding, reminding us that this is fertile soil—not only for crops, but for vision, purpose, and Kingdom work.

It is a quiet yet profound encouragement that as we build, God is already at work, causing increase even in the early stages.

Photos and videos are below.
December 2025 Progress Update

Planting Trees for Protection and the Future!

Three hundred trees planted to shield, beautify, and strengthen the Oltepesi property for the years ahead.

To help shield the Oltepesi site from the strong winds sweeping down from the mountains, we planted 300 trees around the property. Beyond beautifying the land, these trees will serve as a natural windbreak, helping to create a calmer, more sheltered environment for future buildings, visitors, and activities on site.

We are grateful that the seedlings were made available through a government programme, enabling us to strengthen the land in an environmentally responsible and forward-looking way.

Over time, these trees will not only offer protection, but also shade, beauty, and a deeper sense of life on the property.

Photos and videos are below.
November 2025 Progress Update

Groundbreaking & Prayers!

A sacred beginning at the Oltepesi HQ site as CLC Kenya gathered for dedication prayers and symbolic tree planting.

On 30th November 2025, CLC Kenya held groundbreaking and dedication prayers at the Oltepesi HQ. It was a meaningful milestone, marking the beginning of visible development on the land and committing the work ahead to God.

Seven countries were represented during the occasion, with trees planted for CLC International, CLC Italy, Uganda, South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Kenya.

  • CLC International
  • CLC Italy
  • Uganda
  • South Africa
  • Botswana
  • Zimbabwe
  • Kenya

This moment was more than a ceremony; it was a prayerful declaration that the land, the work, and the future impact of the centre belong to God.

Photos and videos are below.
CLC Italy: Ivano Cramerotti
CLC International: Gary Chamberlin
ACABA Uganda: Richard & Joan Mwebesa, Angela Nsimbi & Sharon Mirembe
ACABA South Africa: Zinhle Ramashala, Zamankwali Mkwanazi, & Nthabiseng Sethoga
ACABA Botswana: Dr. Onkeme Letshwiti & Drs Dethapelo & Peggy Lubinda
ACABA Zimbabwe: Coach Tafadzwa Rwizi, Mabel Masigale & Melody Banda
ACABA Kenya: Samuel & Loise Mwinamo, Ev. Abrahama Kimathi, Lucy Muriithi, Jackline Ingasian, Abiah Omukhango
November 2025 Progress Update

Now on Google Maps!

The CLC Kenya African Authors Retreat Centre is now visible on Google Maps, marking another encouraging step in making the Oltepesi HQ site known and accessible.

In November 2025, the Oltepesi HQ site was added to Google Maps as the CLC Kenya African Authors Retreat Centre. This makes it easier for visitors, partners, authors, ministry friends, and future guests to locate the land and follow the journey of the retreat centre as the vision continues to unfold.

What began as a vision is now being marked on the map—literally. This is another reminder that the work is moving from prayer, planning, and preparation into visible establishment.

Find the Retreat Centre on Google Maps

CLC Kenya African Authors Retreat Centre, Oltepesi, Magadi Road.

Open in Google Maps

Provision, Borehole & Outdoor Garden! September-November 2025

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November 2025 Progress Update

An Outdoor Garden of Prayers!

A serene shaded corner established for prayer, reflection, and quiet communion with the Lord.

We are deeply grateful to CLC Panama and CLC Chile for lending a generous hand toward the establishment of our Outdoor Garden of Prayers.

In the heat of Oltepesi, this serene corner offers a shaded refuge, thoughtfully lined with flowering plants and young trees that will, in time, form a natural canopy. It is envisioned as a quiet haven where staff, authors, and visitors can withdraw from the demands of the day, breathe deeply, and hear God with clarity.

Even as we await the beginning of full construction, this garden already stands as a gentle reminder that every lasting work is first anchored in prayer, reflection, and communion with the Lord.

Photos and videos are below.
*Projected Outdoor Prayer Garden (credit: Pinterest)
Work in Progress
Work in Progress
November 2025 Progress Update

The Borehole is Pumped and Powered!

The water source has moved from promise to practical use through the installation of a borehole pump and solar power system.

We are also deeply grateful to KCLCT for stepping in to fund the borehole pump and solar power system, making it possible for the water source to move from promise to practical use.

This support has been vital in ensuring that the borehole is not only drilled, but also equipped to serve the land effectively. By providing the means to pump and power the water sustainably, KCLCT has helped lay an essential foundation for all future development at the Oltepesi HQ.

Their contribution is a powerful reminder that every stage of this project is being built through partnership, generosity, and shared faith in the vision.

Photos and videos are below.
Solar Powered Pump + 2x10,000 Liters Tanks
October 2025 Progress Update

Not Before Water!

Before any meaningful construction could begin, securing a reliable water source for the Oltepesi HQ became the first priority.

Before any meaningful construction could begin, we prioritised securing a reliable water source for the Oltepesi HQ. To achieve this, we opened an Expression of Interest (EOI) for qualified drilling companies.

After reviewing submissions from five firms, the contract was awarded to Borehole Masters by Tadem Engineering, selected for their proven expertise, competitive proposal, and strong track record in similar terrains. With this step, we took a major stride toward ensuring a sustainable water supply for all future development on the land.

We also extend our heartfelt appreciation to our friends at CLC USA, who graciously lent a helping hand by contributing toward the construction of the well. Their partnership has strengthened both our progress and our faith as we prepare the ground for the future.

Photos and videos are below.
Contract Signed with Tadem (Borehole Masters)
September 2025 Progress Update

Provision for the Foundation Slab!

A crucial start-up gift enabled the Oltepesi HQ project to move forward into the foundation slab and first-floor phase with confidence.

We express our heartfelt gratitude to the CLC International Trustees for providing crucial start-up support toward the laying of the foundation slab and the erection of the first floor.

Their generosity has enabled us to begin this significant phase with confidence, strengthening our hands as the vision moves from planning into visible construction.

Even as we step forward in faith, we continue to trust God for additional provision and further support to complete the work set before us.

Photos and videos are below.

The Start of a New Era! May-August 2025

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August 2025 Progress Update

Building Plans Approval Secured!

Official building plan approvals have been received, clearing the way for the next phase of construction at the Oltepesi HQ.

We are pleased to share that we have successfully received official building plan approvals from the relevant government authorities, facilitated through Diams Engineers.

This milestone marks a significant step forward, affirming that our designs and development plans meet all required standards and are now cleared for implementation.

With these approvals in place, we are well-positioned to proceed confidently into the next phase of construction. We appreciate the professionalism and diligence of Diams Engineers in guiding this process and helping us move closer to bringing the Oltepesi HQ vision to life.

Photos and videos are below.
Handover of Approved Plans from Diams Engineers (Approvals done by County Council of Kajiado)
May 2025 Progress Update

Making the Land Liveable!

From planning to physical presence, the Oltepesi site began taking shape through early shelter, security, and groundwork.

In May 2025, we moved from planning into physical presence by erecting a site house, which serves as a temporary work and oversight base. At the same time, we commenced fencing the perimeter and carried out essential groundworks to render the site habitable.

These initial steps ensure security, basic shelter, and a functional base from which to launch full construction.

We extend our sincere appreciation to CLC Colombia for lending a generous helping hand toward the erection of the perimeter fence. Their support strengthened our early groundwork and enabled us to secure the site as we prepared for the next stages of development.

Watch the Site House Progress

A look at the early work of establishing a temporary base for operations on the Oltepesi land.

Watch the Fencing and Groundworks

Early fencing and groundwork helped secure the land and prepare it for the next phase of development.

Photos and videos are below.
Boundary Fence
Plastic Ecoposts + Chain Link Wire Mesh
May 2025 Progress Update

Stewarding Resources: Establishing a Site House!

Repurposed materials from the former Nairobi premises helped establish a practical site house at Oltepesi.

In a spirit of stewardship and wise resource management, materials from the demolished CLC premises in Nairobi—particularly iron sheets and timber—have been thoughtfully repurposed to establish a site house at Oltepesi.

This structure now serves a dual purpose: providing accommodation for the farmhand and secure storage for materials transferred from the Nairobi premises.

This approach not only reduced initial construction costs but also reflects our commitment to maximising every resource entrusted to us as we build for the future.

Photos and videos are below.
Iron Sheets + Wood Structure
May 2025 Progress Update

End of an Era for CLC Kenya!

The demolition of the CLC Nairobi premises marked the close of one chapter and the beginning of a new season of faith, transition, and future establishment.

In May 2025, the CLC Nairobi premises were demolished to pave the way for the Government’s Affordable Housing Programme. This marked the end of a significant chapter in our journey, as the premises had faithfully served as a base for ministry and operations over the years.

Following this transition, CLC Kenya operations were strategically relocated to different locations to ensure continuity of service across publishing, printing, distribution, and training programmes.

While this season required adjustment and stretching, it has also opened the door for new beginnings—most notably the establishment of our permanent home in Oltepesi.

Photos and videos are below.
Demolitions
Demolitions

How the Vision Started! 2017-2024

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December 2024 Milestone

Title Deed Received!

A major milestone as CLC Kenya secured a permanent headquarters site after 18 years of ministry and operations.

As of the close of 2024, we are pleased to report a major milestone: we have fully paid for 4 acres of land, located approximately 68 km west of Nairobi. According to mapping services, the drive from Nairobi to Tinga-Oltepesi is about 67 km.

This marks the first time in 18 years, since CLC Kenya’s founding in 2007, that we are securing a permanent headquarters site.

We appreciate CLC International for lending the helping hand that enabled us to complete the payments for the land sale.

Photos and videos are below.
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March 2023 Milestone

Land Identified!

The journey toward a permanent home for CLC Kenya began with faith, kindness, and a divinely orchestrated opportunity in Tinga–Oltepesi.

In March 2023, the journey toward a permanent home for CLC Kenya began in an unexpected yet divinely orchestrated way. Through the kindness and insight of a CLC-published author, a promising piece of land in Tinga–Oltepesi was identified.

Though we did not yet have the resources in hand, we felt the stirrings of faith. Believing that God was leading us toward a long-awaited inheritance, we, at CLC Kenya, committed ourselves—by faith—to acquire the land, trusting that provision would follow obedience.

This moment marked the seed of what is now unfolding into the CLC Oltepesi Headquarters.

Photos and videos are below.
2018 Early Vision Milestone

Exploring the First Land Options!

The search for a permanent home began with the first land visit in Champagne Ridge, opening the team’s eyes to new possibilities beyond Nairobi.

In 2018, CLC Kenya Board Member Connie Chireah made a deliberate effort to take Dr. Muthoni Omukhango to view different land options as the search for a permanent home began. The first location visited was in Champagne Ridge, off Corner Baridi, about 40 kms from Nairobi. It was a move in the right direction, quite literally.

Although the land in that area was beyond CLC Kenya’s budget at the time, the visit opened our eyes to new possibilities.

It helped the team begin to imagine a future beyond Nairobi’s busy centre, where CLC Kenya could establish a peaceful, spacious, and purpose-driven home for ministry, publishing, training, and retreat work.

Photos and videos are below.
2017 Vision Milestone

The Vision for a Permanent Home!

The seed of conviction for CLC Kenya’s permanent home was shared, received with encouragement, and blessed into prayerful exploration.

In 2017, during a scheduled visit by the then Regional Director for Africa, Liz Patten, together with Petra Nemasky, Dr. Muthoni Omukhango, who was then serving as the Business Development Manager and Head of Publishing at CLC Kenya, shared a deep leading from God concerning the need to settle CLC Kenya into a permanent home.

In this same year, CLC Kenya celebrated 10 years of ministry in Kenya.

The directors received the vision with encouragement and blessed her to begin exploring the possibility. From that moment, the search for land began quietly, prayerfully, and by faith.

What was once a seed of conviction is now unfolding into the visible development of the CLC Oltepesi HQ.

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