NAIROBI, Kenya- Michele Santorelli, an Italian philanthropist now based in Bulgaria, is expanding his humanitarian footprint in Kenya with an ambitious plan: establishing agricultural training centres along the rural coast.
The initiative aims to equip local communities with the skills to enhance food production, improve livelihoods, and promote sustainable farming practices.
Santorelli, a long-time supporter of the Lea Mwana Children’s Home in Malindi, Kilifi County, envisions a future where Kenyan farmers can blend traditional knowledge with innovative techniques to boost efficiency and quality.
“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,” Santorelli stated.
The training centres will be managed by local dioceses in collaboration with the Kenyan government and NGOs.
Farmers will receive hands-on training in vegetable and fruit cultivation, livestock farming, and modern agricultural techniques aimed at enhancing productivity.
But Santorelli isn’t stopping there. He’s tapping into Bulgarian universities with expertise in cooperative farming to provide practical guidance and research-backed solutions.
“With their help, we can blend tradition and innovation to tackle rural agricultural challenges sustainably,” he added.
Santorelli’s commitment to community empowerment isn’t just about farming. On Christmas Day, he and his family hosted a joyous celebration for over 60 children at Lea Mwana Children’s Home.
Each child received new clothes and accessories, ensuring they felt valued during the festive season.
Beyond the holiday festivities, Santorelli also secured the orphanage’s entire 2025 school budget, covering tuition and essential learning materials.
It’s just one of many contributions from the Santorelli family, who, in previous months, provided food aid and funded critical sanitary facility repairs at the home.
Santorelli’s influence extends beyond charity. He has initiated discussions with Malindi MP Amina Mnyazi about potential Kenya-Italy-Bulgaria partnerships in education, economic development, and social integration.
His family’s foundation, “Creators of Hope,” already champions disability inclusion and arts funding across Italy and Bulgaria, and now, Kenya is part of the equation.
“Michele Santorelli has brought joy and hope to our home,” said Agnes Mshambala, founder of Lea Mwana Children’s Home.
“We hope more well-wishers will follow his lead,” added Moses Mwalimu, the orphanage’s board chair.
As Santorelli continues weaving philanthropy with sustainable development, his work stands as a testament to the power of global collaboration in transforming lives.
And for the communities in rural Kenya, his vision is more than just charity—it’s a pathway to long-term prosperity.
