Radio Program Visits Nairobi for Cultural Exchange

A musical celebration of praise and worship took place on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at Upper Hill Chapel in Nairobi, Kenya. Choirs and singers from the Nairobi area and beyond gathered to listen to local leaders, special guest speaker Derrick Porter of “Music and the Spoken Word,” and others share their experiences with and love for the sacred music of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

The meeting was conducted by Elder Johnny O. Baddoo, an Area Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Opening Remarks and Guest Speaker Introductions

Elder Baddoo began his opening remarks by quoting Doctrine and Covenants 25:12, which states, “For my soul delighteth in the song of the heart; yea, the song of the righteous is a prayer unto me, and it shall be answered with a blessing upon their heads.” He emphasized that music is more than just sound; it is a form of worship and an appreciation for the blessings from Heavenly Father. He added that music can soften a troubled heart, heal a wounded soul, and bring individuals closer to heaven. Following his remarks, Elder Baddoo introduced Dr. Charles Mulli, founder of Mully Children’s Family (MCF) and a friend of the Church, who brought his own children’s choir to join the celebration.

Mulli Children’s Family Participation

Dr. Mulli expressed joy at the opportunity to join the Saints and spoke of unity in Jesus Christ, emphasizing that attendees were one regardless of color, creed, or tribe. The MCF Mission Choir then performed two musical numbers, one in English and one in Swahili.

Musical Performances

Following the MCF Mission Choir’s performance, Sister Christina Kyambadde, who flew in from Uganda, performed “His Eye is on the Sparrow.” Additional musical performances included the Nairobi-Kenya Campus Institute Choir singing “Redeemer of Israel” and the Nairobi West Stake Choir singing “Come Ye Children of the Lord.”

Derrick Porter’s Message

Derrick Porter, who had traveled from Salt Lake City, Utah, for the event, spoke about the ability of music to invite the spirit of the Lord, build testimony and faith, lift spirits, give courage, and inspire endurance. He interviewed several choir members about their feelings regarding the music of the Gospel and its influence in their lives. Sheffield Mwongela Masaku shared how hymns bring peace, while others described how music helps them recognize their identity and understand the gospel. Kennedy Munyao Ndinda explained that hymns often express feelings he struggles to put into words. Monica Wasonga shared how sacred music brings peace, direction, and courage. Brother Porter responded that singing sacred hymns can strengthen individuals and strengthen their connection with Jesus Christ.

Additional Performances and Closing Remarks

The Imani Singers, the Nairobi East Stake Choir, and a duet by Pythagore Matubu and Anges Mambassa, two Tabernacle Choir participants from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), also performed. Elder Thierry Mutombo, President of the Africa Central Area, gave closing remarks, sharing his experience growing up in the DRC and the joy that gospel music brought to his home. He quoted President Oaks, stating that sacred music has a unique capacity to communicate love for the Lord. Elder Mutombo concluded that singing the hymns of Zion unifies individuals with Jesus Christ. A closing hymn and prayer were followed by fellowship and an encore performance by the MCF Mission Choir.