On a quiet morning in February 2026, the sun rises gently over Lake Sebu in South Cotabato Province, in the southern Philippines. The water is calm. The hills are green. And standing side by side, smiling at the camera, are two Kenyan sisters — Moreen Kagendo Kivuti, 28, and Naomi Wanjiru Kivuti, 35.
Far away from the busy streets of Nairobi and the fast pace of city life, the sisters have chosen a different path — a simple and peaceful life in rural Philippines.
A Bold Decision to Start Again
Moreen and Naomi were born and raised in Kenya. Like many young professionals, they once dreamed of building careers in the city, earning good money, and living modern lives. Naomi worked in administration, while Moreen explored opportunities in business and digital work.
But over time, they began to feel tired of the pressure.
Life in the city was expensive. Work was stressful. Days felt rushed. They wanted something different — more time, more freedom, and a deeper connection with life.
After much thought, prayer, and planning, they made a bold decision: they would move abroad and start fresh.
Why the Philippines?
Their journey to the Philippines was not by accident.
Naomi had first visited the country through a work opportunity. During her stay, she was touched by the warmth of the people, the slow pace of life in the countryside, and the natural beauty everywhere she looked. Unlike the crowded cities, rural areas offered space, fresh air, and strong community ties.
She later encouraged her younger sister to visit.
When Moreen arrived, she immediately felt at peace.
“The people were welcoming,” she says. “Life here is simple. You don’t feel like you are competing with everyone.”
The cost of living was also lower compared to major cities in Kenya. They realized they could live comfortably without constant financial pressure.
A Quiet Life in Lake Sebu
Today, the sisters live near Lake Sebu in South Cotabato Province. The area is known for its green mountains, waterfalls, and rich cultural traditions.
Their daily life is simple but meaningful.
They wake up early. They enjoy fresh food from local markets. Sometimes they grow vegetables in their small garden. They take walks by the lake and spend time with neighbors.
Moreen works remotely online, which allows her to earn income while staying in the village. Naomi is involved in small community projects and helps with local tourism activities.
Instead of traffic noise, they hear birds. Instead of rushing to meetings, they plan their day calmly.
Adjusting to a New Culture
Moving to a new country was not always easy.
At first, they struggled with language differences. Although many Filipinos speak English, local dialects are common in rural areas. Food was also different from what they were used to in Kenya.
They missed their family, Kenyan tea, and traditional meals.
But slowly, they adapted.
They learned local customs. They made friends. They joined community events and celebrations. Over time, they began to feel at home.
The sisters say that respect and kindness helped them settle in. “If you respect people’s culture, they respect you back,” Naomi explains.
Family Reactions Back Home
When they first told their family in Kenya about their plans, reactions were mixed.
Some relatives were worried. Others were surprised. A few thought the move would not last long.
But after seeing their happiness and stability, their family became supportive.
They keep in touch through regular video calls. They also plan to visit Kenya from time to time.
Choosing Peace Over Pressure
For Moreen and Naomi, success is no longer about titles or big salaries.
It is about peace of mind.
It is about having time to sit by the lake and watch the sunset.
It is about living without constant stress.
Their story is not about running away from Kenya. It is about choosing a life that matches their values.
Many young Africans dream of moving abroad for better jobs. But for these sisters, the dream was different — not luxury, not fame, but quiet happiness.
A Message to Others
The sisters say their journey taught them one important lesson: life does not have only one path.
“You don’t have to follow what everyone else is doing,” Moreen says. “Find what gives you peace.”
Today, in a small village near Lake Sebu, two Kenyan sisters have built a home far from where they were born. And in that quiet corner of the Philippines, they have found something many people are still searching for — contentment.
