Discover the
Rich History of VERGENOEG
Welcome to “The History of VERGENOEG,” where we explore the rich heritage of the South African Boers in Kenya.
In the early 1900s, invited by the British government which then ruled Kenya, Boer settlers embarked on a journey to establish themselves as farmers in the fertile Rift Valley. This initiative led to the founding of Eldoret, a cornerstone of their agricultural efforts.
The establishment of the first Dutch Reformed Church in Kenya, VERGENOEG, in Nakuru in 1908, marked a significant cultural and spiritual milestone for the community. Named after the Boers’ sense of contentment with their new home, VERGENOEG became a hub of traditions—from enjoying melktert to playing Jukskei—customs that still thrive among the current VERGENOEG community in Pretoria.
Explore our timeline and stories to uncover the enduring legacy of these pioneer settlers and their contributions to both Kenyan and South African history.
South African Boers were invited by the British government to settle as farmers in Kenya’s Rift Valley. The Boers began farming in the town of Eldoret.
Enslin Trek (Date Unknown):
Possible trekboers such as the Enslin family journeyed to Israel. They mistook Nylstroom for the Nile River and became known as the “Jerusalem travelers.”
November 29: The first Dutch Reformed Church (NG Gemeente) in Kenya is established in Nakuru by Rev. L.M. Louw and is named VERGENOEG. Traditions such as melktert and Jukskei continue to thrive.
The first church building outside Eldoret is constructed with bamboo walls and a thatched roof, symbolizing the community’s settlement and their commitment to faith and worship.
The second church building was constructed on the same site. The congregation remained debt-free thanks to the generous contributions and donations from dedicated members and supporters from the South.
1975
After the start of the Afrikaners’ return to South Africa, it was decided to donate the building fund and the church balance of R40,000 to the current VERGENOEG for elderly housing.
1976
A portion of the current buildings was completed with the inauguration on 13 September 1977.
1982
Six plots were purchased for R180,000 for the construction of the rest of the current building complex.
Today
Vergenoeg is a Non-Profit Organization in Villieria, Pretoria, providing accommodation for 249 residents (153 self-catering and 96 requiring 24/7 care). Our Service Centre also offers home care to 151 residents in the Moot area.
We hope this journey through VERGENOEG’s history has inspired you and provided insight into the rich heritage of the South African Boers in Kenya. The story of VERGENOEG celebrates determination, community, and cultural connection.
Contact us for more information and share your own VERGENOEG story. Thank you for your interest and support!