The Standing Committee of the Provincial Synod of the Anglican Church of Kenya, led by Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit, has released a pastoral message emphasizing the need for a united nation grounded in family values. Meeting at All Saints Cathedral from September 24-26, the committee reflected on pressing national issues, urging immediate reforms to ensure the well-being of all citizens.
The theme of this year’s message, “A Wholesome Family for a Wholesome Nation,” underscores the church’s commitment to being a vehicle for family restoration and national healing. The committee approved a strategic plan for 2024-2028 aimed at fostering a caring and growing Anglican community.
National Cohesion and Political Stability
The church leaders expressed grave concern over the ongoing political discord between President William Ruto and his Deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, describing it as a threat to national cohesion. Archbishop Ole Sapit advocated for dialogue between the two leaders, stating that their collaboration is essential for the country’s stability.
In a bold statement, he suggested that impeaching Deputy President Gachagua could contribute to restoring national stability, reinforcing the call for political leaders to prioritize unity over division.
Safety in Schools
In light of the recent tragic fire at Endarasha Primary School that claimed the lives of twenty one children, the church called on the government to implement stringent safety measures in educational institutions. The Standing Committee urged for accountability and reinforced safety protocols, including regular fire drills and proper training for staff and students.
Corruption and Accountability
The issue of corruption within both national and county governments was a focal point of the message. The church denounced the exploitation of public office for personal gain, demanding the prosecution of corrupt officials and the return of misappropriated funds. They called for strengthened anti-corruption measures to restore public trust and improve service delivery.
Education and Health Sector Reforms
Ole Sapit highlighted the critical state of the education sector, lamenting its neglect and underfunding. The church called for increased investment in education and a return to the previous university funding model to support low-income students.
Regarding the health sector, the transition from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the Social Health Authority (SHA) has raised concerns about preparedness and potential service disruptions. The church urged the government to postpone the transition date to allow for adequate preparation.
Economic Challenges and Public Debt
The message addressed the challenges of taxation and public debt, criticizing recent policies that could harm economic growth, particularly the introduction of taxes on churches and NGOs. The church leaders called for a review of these measures, advocating for support to small and medium enterprises struggling under rising production costs.
Call for Environmental Stewardship
The Anglican Church also reiterated its commitment to environmental stewardship, emphasizing the need for government support in sustainable practices. The committee called for protective measures for water catchment areas to address the increasing frequency of droughts.
The Anglican Church of Kenya’s comprehensive message underscores the pressing need for unity, reform, and accountability within the nation. As the country approaches the 2027 general elections, the church remains vigilant in advocating for a credible electoral commission and the protection of citizens’ rights. Archbishop Ole Sapit concluded with a call for peace, urging all stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue for the future of the nation.