It wasn't a grand announcement, nor a booming voice from the heavens. It was a simple, direct plea, a whisper in the bustling hum of a 1996 Global Missions conference. Andre Delport, a Baptist delegate from South Africa, found himself stopped in his tracks by a man named Esao Jobando, hailing from Kenya. "I need to speak to you," Esao said, his eyes earnest, "the Lord wants you to come to Kenya."

Those words, seemingly straightforward, ignited a flame within Andre. He began a correspondence with Esao, a bridge built with letters across vast distances. Soon, plans were laid: pastors' conferences, open-air outreaches, a chance to share the Gospel in a land yearning for its message.

For years, Andre, alongside dedicated teams of volunteers, journeyed to Kenya. They preached in schools, comforted orphans, and held conferences, laying the foundation for what would become Hands on Missions Africa Branch. But it was during those pastors' conferences that a profound need became painfully clear.

The thirst for the Word was immense. Many pastors, the very shepherds of their communities, lacked even the most basic resource: a Bible. Imagine three pastors, sharing a single Bible, dividing its pages into portions, clinging to fragments of truth.

Andre knew something had to change. He sought out the Baptist Theological Seminary in Cape Town, South Africa, and in July 2000, a miracle unfolded. A two-year certificate course in Pastoral Ministry began in Kenya, with 25 eager students. The joy of the first graduation in 2002, with 21 graduates, was tempered by a deeper longing. "We need more," they pleaded, "we need to learn more."

God, always faithful, connected Hands on Africa with Dr. Ray van der Wal from Jacksonville Baptist Seminary. An opportunity arose, a chance to equip these passionate leaders with a Bachelor's Degree in Theology. In 2003, an adapted curriculum was implemented, a seed sown that would blossom into something extraordinary.

This was just the beginning. From that initial whisper in a crowded conference hall, a movement was born. Today, Hands on Africa offers Associate, Bachelor, and Postgraduate degrees in seven countries. Over 1000 graduates are now serving their communities, carrying the torch of faith.

Our story is not merely a timeline of events; it's a testament to the power of obedience, the transformative impact of God's Word, and the enduring spirit of the African people. Our heartbeat pulses with a passionate love for Jesus Christ. We are driven to share His life-giving message, to nurture faith, and to empower others to spread the hope of the Gospel.

Our story is still being written. We invite you to join us, to be a part of this unfolding narrative, and to witness the power of God's love transforming lives across Africa.