Boise Becomes Home to Nation's First Swahili LDS Ward

New ward serves nearly 200 local members, many African refugees rebuilding lives in Treasure Valley

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Boise is now home to the nation's first Swahili-language Latter-day Saint ward, based at the Bogus Basin Chapel and serving nearly 200 local members. Many congregants are African refugees rebuilding their lives in the Treasure Valley, and the new ward status, with Bishop Denis Akulu called to lead, marks a powerful milestone in both their spiritual community and Boise's growing diversity.

Why it matters

The establishment of the first Swahili-speaking LDS ward in the U.S. in Boise reflects the city's increasing diversity as a hub for refugee resettlement. It provides a spiritual home and community for African immigrants, many of whom have faced challenges in rebuilding their lives after fleeing conflict and persecution in their home countries.

The details

The new Swahili-language ward was established at the Bogus Basin Chapel in Boise, serving nearly 200 local members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Many of the congregants are African refugees who have resettled in the Treasure Valley region. The ward is led by Bishop Denis Akulu and marks an important milestone for the local Swahili-speaking community.

  • The Swahili-language LDS ward was established in Boise in early 2026.

The players

Bogus Basin Chapel

The location of the new Swahili-language LDS ward in Boise.

Denis Akulu

The bishop called to lead the new Swahili-language LDS ward in Boise.

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The takeaway

The establishment of the first Swahili-speaking LDS ward in the U.S. in Boise underscores the city's growing diversity and its role as a hub for refugee resettlement. It provides an important spiritual community and support system for African immigrants rebuilding their lives in the Treasure Valley.