Ep.26 The Shakahola Forest Cult

In 2023, the world was horrified by the discovery of mass graves in Shakahola Forest, Kenya. Behind the tragedy was Paul Mackenzie, a self-proclaimed pastor who led his followers into the wilderness with promises of salvation through starvation. As families sold their possessions and withdrew from society, Mackenzie preached that death by fasting would deliver them to heaven. In this episode of Hidden Cults, we trace Mackenzie’s journey from preacher to prophet of destruction. We explore how his anti-modern teachings rejected schools, medicine, and government, and how devotion turned into mass death. Survivor accounts, police reports, and the voices of grieving relatives reveal a story of manipulation, obedience, and the terrifying power of belief.

Part 1 – A Preacher Rises
Part 2 – Seeds of the Gospel of End Times
Part 3 – Into the Forest
Part 4 – Starving for Salvation
Part 5 – The Graves of Shakahola
Part 6 – Justice and Warnings

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Listen on all podcast apps:
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International Resources

International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA)
https://www.icsahome.com
Provides information, recovery support, referrals, and events for survivors and concerned families.
Open Minds Foundation
https://www.openmindsfoundation.org
Offers education and support about undue influence and manipulative organizations.
The Hotline (USA – Domestic Abuse)
https://www.thehotline.org
📞 1-800-799-7233 — 24/7 support for victims of domestic, emotional, and religious abuse.
Freedom of Mind Resource Center (Steven Hassan)
https://freedomofmind.com
Resources on cult recovery, exit counseling, and mind control education.
FaithTrust Institute
https://www.faithtrustinstitute.org
Support and resources for survivors of religious abuse, especially within faith communities.
United States

Cult Recovery Hotline (ICSA)
📞 1-239-514-3081
Referral and support line for ex-members, families, and researchers.
RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)
https://www.rainn.org
📞 1-800-656-4673 — Confidential support for trauma survivors.
Canada

Cult & Trauma Support Resources 🧠
Info-Cult / Info-Secte (Montreal-based, Canada-wide) Website: https://infosecte.org
Phone: 📞 514-274-2333
Email: [email protected]
Canada’s leading organization for individuals and families affected by cults, coercive groups, and spiritual abuse.
Offers confidential support, referrals, and information in English and French.

United Kingdom

The Family Survival Trust
https://familysurvivaltrust.org
Support and advocacy for those affected by cults and coercive control.
Cults Information Centre and Family Support
https://cults.org.uk
UK-based information and guidance for cult survivors and families.
Mind UK (Mental Health Support)
https://www.mind.org.uk
📞 0300 123 3393 — Non-judgmental mental health advice and support.
Australia

Cult Information and Family Support (CIFS)
https://www.cifs.org.au
National support for individuals and families affected by cults.