Christ Is The Answer Ministries (CITAM) ranks among the wealthiest churches in Kenya, with an estimated asset base of Sh16.46 billion and monthly earnings running into hundreds of millions of shillings.
Thanks to its expansive church network and diversified investments, CITAM generates at least Sh200 million every month, translating to over Sh2 billion annually. The church operates schools, media stations, and real estate ventures that significantly boost its income beyond regular offerings and tithes.
How CITAM Began
CITAM’s roots date back to 1952, following the arrival of John McBride, a missionary from the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada (PAOC), in Nairobi. His vision was to establish a strong evangelical church in Kenya.
In 1959, the church was officially founded as the Nairobi Evangelistic Centre. The early congregation was small about 20 to 30 members, mainly European and Canadian expatriates who worshipped at Rahimtulla Hall before relocating to Valley Road in 1960, where the flagship church still stands today.
The church was later renamed Nairobi Pentecostal Church, before adopting its current name, Christ Is The Answer Ministries (CITAM) in 2003, inspired by its long-standing motto.
Rapid Growth and Expansion
Today, CITAM operates 38 branches worldwide, with 34 located across Kenya and the rest spread across countries such as the United Kingdom and the United States. This wide reach has played a major role in strengthening the church’s financial base.
Where the Money Comes From
CITAM’s income is drawn from multiple sources:
- Tithes, offerings, and donations
- Rental income from church-owned properties
- Interest earnings
- Educational institutions
- Media houses, including Hope FM and a television station
According to the church’s 2023 financial report, income from tithes, offerings, gifts, and partnerships rose from Sh555 million in 2022 to Sh658.9 million in 2023, marking a 19% growth.
Additional revenue streams include Sh12.2 million in rental income and Sh28 million from interest earnings. Business units such as schools and media outlets collectively contributed over Sh894 million to the church’s total income.
Billions in Annual Revenue
CITAM’s financial growth has been consistent over the years:
- 2020: Sh2.0 billion
- 2021: Sh2.4 billion
- 2022: Sh2.9 billion
- 2023: Sh3.28 billion
- 2024: Sh3.4 billion
This places the church’s current monthly earnings at approximately Sh280 million, cementing its position as one of Kenya’s most financially powerful churches.
