NAIROBI–Fr. Robin Kamemba reclines with a thoughtful grin. “You might say I’ve gathered passport stamps ” he remarks, his eyes folding at the edges. This modest comment conceals a voyage that has now culminated in a historic milestone: being appointed the first Provincial Superior of the newly established Society of African Missions (SMA) Province of Kenya.

His path, starting before his 2005 ordination spans Benin, for international spiritual year, Ivory Coast for theological studies, and took shape during key Missionary years in Zambia and Egypt. “In Zambia where he contributed to the formation of SMA seminarians, the Church was lively filled with singing and dancing ” he remembers. “In Egypt it was an remarkable difference—more subdued, grounded in ancient Coptic customs. It’s like hearing the lovely melody expressed in entirely different musical styles.”

This experience with diversity revealed a truth to him. “The priesthood centers on Christ on service and above all on being for the people ” he expresses. “The core of our humanity and our quest, for God transcends all boundaries.”

Possibly the deepest teachings he experienced occurred over ten years in Egypt a time he characterizes as an ” education, in patience, tolerance and comprehension.” Within an Islamic Republic he directly addressed the criticism: “Why are we the sole ones making efforts?”

His response is based on real-life experiences. “I formed friendships with numerous Muslims who sincerely engaged in dialogue ” he states. He implies that the headlines are controlled by a minority. “Most of the Muslims I encountered were leading respectable tranquil lives… They showed me that sharing a meal and enjoying a laugh together can frequently be more impactful, than an argument.”

For Fr. Robin delving into Islamology is a contemporary pursuit. “It involves mastering a language of the heart that goes beyond boundaries.”

Numerous people characterize him as calm and accessible—an attribute he credits not to his character but, to his leadership philosophy. “I view my leadership not as a role of power. As a path of ‘walking alongside’ ” he explains. “It’s less about commanding and guiding and more about hearing, motivating and traveling alongside my brothers.”

Then with his sense of humor he remarks: “Also a nice cup of Kenyan tea is always welcome!”

Regarding the importance of his position his modesty is evident. “This represents a milestone for the SMA, in Kenya… It’s as if we’ve been training for a marathon and have just reached the finish line only to understand that it actually marks the beginning of a fresh even more thrilling challenge.”

His urgent focuses are pragmatic and fundamental: establishing frameworks, in protection, management, finance and development. “It’s not the exciting work ” he concedes, “but a reliable base is crucial before you begin embellishing the home.”

For Kenyans choosing a career his message resonates strongly. “Missionary work today holds significance than ever before ” he declares. “In a society that grows more interconnected yet profoundly fragmented the missionary acts as a unifier.” He shifts the narrative from the ” Indiana Jones” stereotype, to a committed life of dedication. “Society urges you to amass riches…. The missionary journey presents an alternative route – a route filled with happiness, purpose and a love that will change both you and the world.”

Based on his interfaith efforts he proposes a model for living harmoniously. “It starts with actions: eating together honoring each other’s holidays… even a basic greeting like ‘As-salamu alaykum’ can unlock doors and hearts in ways, beyond our imagination.”

What worries him most, about the African Church? Complacency. What inspires his hope? Its members. “The African Church possesses a gift to share with the world – a gift of lively faith enduring hope and a profound feeling of togetherness.”

Regarding the balance, between compassion and firmness he references Brené Brown: “‘Clear is kind. Unclear is unkind.’” He thinks genuine compassion involves clarity and honesty when it’s challenging. “It’s about being a shepherd to wield the staff to lead and shield the flock yet also able to tenderly carry the lamb that has wandered off.”

His closing statement expresses daring aspirations. “There is an urge… to turn inward. My hope is that Kenya develops into a contributor to the SMA.” His outlook is one of largesse: “Our goal is to expand and unfold like a stunning flower offering beauty and a delightful fragrance to the SMA globally. Watch out world the SMA, in Kenya is poised to flourish!”

As our conversation ends, he offers a final, humble request, a testament to the man behind the history-making title: “Keep us in your prayers. And if you see me looking a little less than serene, please, just offer me a cup of tea (with milk)!”

By Dominic Wabwireh