Build a Firm Policy Framework for Healthy Lives
Build a Firm Policy Framework for Healthy Lives
Press Statement
Preamble
Representatives of the NCCK Member Churches in Lower Eastern Region (Kajiado, Kitui, Machakos and Makueni counties) have held a two-day consultative forum to build a strategy to address the growing epidemic of Non-Communicable Diseases in the country. The participants took note that the first thing God gave to people after creation was healthy food for healthy living, for God cares about physical wellbeing of all persons, just as we read in Genesis 9: 3
Everything that lives and moves will be food for you. Just as I gave you the green plants, I now give you everything.
Having considered the current state of health in our nation, we now share this message.
- Address the Epidemic of Non-Communicable Diseases
Statistics from the government show that Non-Communicable Diseases, which include cancer, hypertension, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, are responsible for more than 50% of all hospitalizations and result in 39% of all deaths in Kenya. The Kenya NCDs Strategy points out that 77% of total health expenditure are from domestic sources, which means that the management of NCDs is putting a very heavy burden on families. Indeed recent media reports have displayed the extra burden imposed on patients due to the crisis surrounding the transition from National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the Social Health Authority / Social Health Insurance Fund (SHA/SHIF).
It is in this regard that we appeal to all Kenyans to individually take measures to reduce the risk of Non-Communicable Diseases.
- Eat Healthy Foods
The greatest risk factor for NCDs is consuming diets that are high in salt, saturated fats and oils, high in sugar, and that are high contents of agrochemicals and heavy metals. The main source of these unhealthy diets are highly processed foods and beverages.
We encourage all Kenyans, especially the residents of Lower Eastern Region, to commit to eat only healthy meals. It is very important to eat farm products straight from the farm, without adding excessive sugar, salt or preservatives. Let us all avoid buying and consuming meals and snacks that are high in sugar, salt, saturated fats and oil, or chemical preservatives, which are called nutrients of concern.
- Introduce Front of Pack Warning Labels
On its part, we call on the government to adopt regulations and laws that will require all food processors to include Front of Pack Warning Labels to let buyers identify products that are high in the nutrients of concern. The warning labels will assist families when making choices on what to buy and what not to eat or drink.
It will be of great essence that the Kenya Bureau of Standards strictly enforces these regulations to safeguard the health of all Kenyans.
- Regulate Advertisement of Unhealthy Foods
We call for urgent measures by national and county governments to regulate the advertisement of unhealthy foods that are high in sugar, salt and saturated fats and oils that are targeted at children. This is in recognition of the high level of prevalence of NCDs among the children, which was not the case in the past. We also recognize that many parents buy unhealthy foods due to pressure by their children. The regulations should curtail the placement of advertisements for foods high in the nutrients of concern near schools or during the water-shed hours when children are likely to be consuming media.
Further, we call for an immediate cessation of the use of children or children-like characters in advertisement of unhealthy foods. Let us join in protecting the future generation.
We remind all advertisers and producers the stern warning God has given in Matthew 18: 6
If anyone causes one of these little ones – those who believe in me – to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.
- Adopt the Nutrient Profile Model
To facilitate these measures, we call upon the Ministry of Health to work with stakeholders to finalize and adopt the evidence-based Nutrient Profile Model. On our part, we commit to use our structures to sensitize the citizens on the profile model and related regulations once these are put in place.
- Revert to NHIF until the SHIF is ready
We continue to watch in horror the suffering individual patients and families are going through as they cannot access treatment in public or private health facilities. We demand that the government suspends the implementation of the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) and reverts to the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) until the Social Health Authority puts all necessary measures and structures in place. The high appetite for money should not be a reason to sacrifice the lives of Kenyans.
In addition, we call for a radical change in the benefits provided under the SHIF to ensure they match, or at least are better, than the benefits that we enjoyed under the NHIF. It does not make sense to us that Kenyans are now paying more money but are getting less benefits.
- Make the Most of the School Holidays
In line with the education calendar, all children are now home for the next two months for the long holiday. We encourage fellow parents not to feel overwhelmed, but to instead make adequate plans to fully engage the children in productive activities. This is a prudent opportunity to instil life skills, culture of work and sense of responsibility in the young ones. We must not make social media the surrogate parent of our children, or else we will lose the current and future generations.
- Conclusion
We conclude by remembering that God has placed a responsibility on every one of us to take care of our bodies, just as we read in 1 Corinthians 6: 19
Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own, you were bought with a price. Therefore, honor God with your body.
May God help us to take measures to safeguard healthy living in our families and nation.
Signed on this 31st day of October, 2024, at St Joseph Pastoral Center, Machakos.
Bishop Festus Malua
Machakos CCC Chairperson
B Bishop Japheth Ndivo
Makueni CCC Chairperson
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NCCK Combating Food Insecurity in Kitui County
NCCK Combating Food Insecurity in Kitui County
Press Release
The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) has taken effective measures to combat food insecurity in Kitui County through distribution of 17 metric tonnes of certified seeds of drought-resistant crops to 2,160 farming households.
Each of the households received 4 kilograms of green grams and 4 kilograms of cowpeas, which is adequate to plant an acre of land with each type of seeds.
Overall, the farmers are projected to harvest 15,120 bags of green grams (1360 tonnes) and 15,120 bags of cowpeas (1166 tonnes).
The distribution of the seeds to the farmers follows six months of training on climate-resilient agriculture coupled with nature-based restoration of the environment.
According to the Kitui County Agri-Nutrition Implementation Strategy (2023 – 2027), most families in the county are nutrition-challenged. 1 in every 4 children are stunted, minimum acceptable diet is at 22%, and minimum dietary diversity is at 32.8%. The level of food self-sufficiency is rated at 51%, while 10% of the population are absolutely food insecure.
The food insecurity has in part been driven by the low update of viable farm inputs, with only 15% of the farmers using certified seeds. As a result, an acre of green grams produces only two 90 kilogram bags against a potential of 7.
The distribution of the seeds is part of a broader Nature Positive project that is seeking to boost livelihoods by strengthening adaptation and mitigation to climate change and also restoring and sustaining biodiversity in Kitui County. The project is being implemented by NCCK in partnership with Canadian Food Grain Bank (CFGB) through the United Church of Canada (UCC).
The exercise was overseen by Athi Ward Administrator, Festus Kilonzo, accompanied by the Chief, and members of the Project Management Committee.
Distribution of the 17 metric tonnes of seeds came just a few days after the NCCK donated 60 water tanks, each with a 10,000 liter capacity, to 28 schools and 32 churches in the area. The tanks were flagged off by the Governor of Kitui County, HE Dr Julius Malombe, and the NCCK General Secretary, Rev Canon Chris Kinyanjui.
Signed on this 28th day of October, 2024 at Jumuia Place, Nairobi
Rev Canon Chris Kinyanjui
GENERAL SECRETARY
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NCCK Signs MOU with Kitui County, HACA and Dorcas Aid
NCCK Signs MOU with Kitui County, HACA and Dorcas Aid
The NCCK has today birthed a partnership with the County Government of Kitui, the Help a Child Africa (HACA) and Dorcas Aid Internation for a comprehensive transformation for resilience, sustainability and community development in Athi and Ikutha Wards, Kitui County.
The partnership was cemented by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding by HE Dr Julius Malombe, Governor of Kitui County, Rev Canon Chris Kinyanjui, the NCCK General Secretary, Rachel Kigame, HACA Country Director, and Edwin Onyancha, Dorcas Aid Country Director. The MOU was signed at the Office of the County Governor, Kitui, in the presence of all the County Executive Committee Members as well as clergy.
“We welcome the signing of this MOU which will us to co-create projects and initiatives as partners for the benefit of the people”, sad HE Dr Malobe.
Under the MOU, the NCCK will spearhead interventions in environmental conservation, access to water, sustainable livelihoods, and child centered community development. The partners will undertake joint resource mobilization and co-creation of project designs.
Among the initiatives to be undertaken by the NCCK will be the construction of 13 sand dams and desilting of 13 others. Piping for water supply to communities will be undertaken. To safeguard community food security, the NCCK will train 2,160 households on conservation agriculture and also support them with seeds and planting materials. Further, the NCCK is organizing community members to form 72 self help groups, 108 Village Savings and Loans Associations, and promote child protection and participation.
The interventions by the NCCK are supported by the Canadian Food Grains Bank (CFGB) through the United Church of Canada (UCC).
HACA on their part will support wellbeing of children by driving social-economic development and empowerment, in addition to supporting schooling for children in the community.
“We came to Kitui with a focus on supporting children and education, but have realized that the programming was not working since families spend so much time looking for water,” Rachel Kigame explained, adding that HACA had expanded the scope of interventions to include access to water.
Dorcas Aid committed to enhance community resilience by supporting protection of natural habitats and training tree planting teams.
To ensure success of the ventures, the County Government will provide a platform for coordination, ensure technical support in project design and supervision, secure policy and legal frameworks for betterment of the society, and avail land for a botanical garden and plant sanctuary.
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Justice Be Our Shield and Defender
Justice Be Our Shield and Defender
Press Statement
Preamble
The religious leaders drawn from the National Council of Churches of Kenya, the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops, and the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims convened at Ufungamano House, Nairobi, to review the state of the nation. The meeting was challenged by the word of God recorded in Amos 5: 15
Hate evil, love good, maintain justice in the courts. Perhaps the Lord God Almighty will have mercy on the remnant of Joseph.
And in the Quran (An Nisaa 4: 135)
O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives.
Kenya is going through a very difficult period that is really a man-made disaster. Seeking to contribute to shepherding the nation out of this crisis, we now share the following message.
1. State of the Nation
In different national surveys, 73% of Kenyans have stated that the nation is heading in the wrong direction. We concur with this finding, and do remind the three arms of government, that is the Executive, the Legislature, and the Judiciary, to make a radical shift to redeem the nation. We remind you that if this nation perishes, the blood of Kenyans will be on your hands.
In a snapshot, the following concerns of the people of Kenya require immediate action for remedy:
- Politicians are engaging in massive ethnic mobilization for political activism, ostensibly in readiness for the 2027 General Elections. We recall that similar mobilization was witnessed in the years leading up to the 2007 elections, and the outcome was the devastating Post Election Violence whose effects are being felt even today. Why is the government setting up Kenyans for violence?
- The failure to constitute the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is a gross injustice to the people of Kenya. The constitutional rights of the residents of counties without Deputy Governors, constituencies without Members of National Assembly, and wards without Members of County Assemblies are being violated since they cannot elect their representatives.
- Massive and gross corruption continues to permeate every sector and level of the nation. The impunity being displayed by national and county government officials is nauseating, and killing the soul of the nation. God is certain to punish a nation that allows itself to worship greed and corruption.
- Kenyans are heart broken by the apparent betrayal by the Members of Parliament who have chosen to limit themselves to only executing the business and interests of the Executive. How can both National Assembly and Senate persistently lack quorum to discuss matters of interest to the citizens but are full house to deliberate on State House driven agenda? To whom will Kenyans resort for rescue from Parliamentary tyranny that is emerging?
- There is massive suffering and devastation of lives across the nation due to the rushed, opaque and forced transition from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the Social Health Authority (SHA) / Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF). How many people must die before this draconian action is remedied? Why must Kenyans be forced to pay billions of shillings to brokers who add no value to the healthcare of the people? Why have the benefits Kenyans were getting under NHIF been reduced under the SHIF yet they are required to pay more?
- Education of Kenyans has been greatly hampered by the change in the University education funding model, which has caused hundreds of students to fail to resume classes. What was so wrong with the previous model that it had to be changed?
2. Demand for Justice for Kenyans
In the National Anthem, Kenyans persistently declare that Justice is the bedrock of the nation by declaring it to be the shield and defender. The nation cannot dwell in unity, peace and liberty without justice.
We now demand that the Executive, the Legislature and Judiciary dispense justice to the people of Kenya by taking the following measures:
One, immediately conclude the constitution of the IEBC Commissioners Selection Panel, and have it facilitated to carry out its mandate in the shortest time possible. We especially call on the Speaker of the National Assembly to appoint the representative of Parliamentary Service Commission, and the Political Parties Tribunal to resolve the dispute touching on representative of Azimio Coalition without further delay.
Two, cancel all the contracts that have been issued to Adani related companies that have been or are seeking to be entrenched in health sector, electricity transmission and management of the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Adani related companies are not investors to the extent that they are not bringing in money into the country, and are therefore seemingly merely a front for companies of Kenyan officials. We remind government officials that across the world, countries that engaged Adani related companies, which include India, Australia and Bangladesh, are today crying and seeking to cancel the same.
Three, Parliament must without delay withdraw all the anti-people bills that have been tabled. These include all the nine agriculture-related bills, as well as the Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill 2024 which is seeking to extend the term of elected leaders from five to seven years. Parliamentarians should serve Kenyans or resign to go and serve their other interests.
Four, the country should revert to the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), coupled with a suspension of the implementation of the Social Health Authority / Social Health Insurance Fund laws until the transition is made seamless, and the new model facilitates justice for Kenyans.
Five, we demand that the new university funding model be suspended to allow for further consultations and to ensure justice and fairness to all students.
3. Impeachment of the Deputy President
Whereas the Constitution of Kenya 2010 provides for the impeachment of the Deputy President, this is the first time in the history of the nation this process is being undertaken. We call upon the Senate to ensure justice is done and seen to be done, recognizing that what they undertake will set a precedence for the nation. It is our heartfelt wish that the Members of Parliament exercised similar energy and resources on matters that are priority to the lives of the people of Kenya as they have in debating the impeachment.
Further, we call upon His Excellency President William Ruto to speak on this matter of the impeachment of the Deputy President. This is not only a matter of national interest, but also
Further, we call upon His Excellency President William Ruto to speak on this matter of the impeachment of the Deputy President. This is not only a matter of national interest, but also one concerning the principal assistant of the President, and Kenyans have a right to know the President’s position on the matter.
On their part, we urge the people of Kenya to remain peaceful regardless of the outcome of the impeachment process.
Conclusion
We conclude our message by recalling the guidance God has given in Jeremiah 22: 3
This is what the Lord says: Do what is just and right. Rescue from the hand of his oppressor the one who has been robbed. Do no wrong or violence to the alien, the fatherless or the widow, and do not shed innocent blood in this place.
And also in Surah Ar-Raad 11
Indeed, Allah would never change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves.
Let us all pursue justice, and stand up to defend the wellbeing of every Kenyan.
May God bless the nation of Kenya now and always.
Signed on this 16th day of October 2024 at Christian Students Leadrship Center (Ufungamano House), Nairobi.
Rev Dr Elias Agola
NCCK Chairman
Rt. Rev. Simon Peter Kamomoe
Chairman, Catholic Justice and Peace Department
Sh Muhdhar A Ahmed
Deputy Chairman, SUPKEM
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Listen to Kenyans and Put Their Interests To Heart
Listen to Kenyans and Put Their Interests To Heart
Statement
Preamble
The NCCK Western Region Regional Committee Members held a Consultative Forum at the Jamindas Motel in Kakamega County. The Forum brings together delegates from Bungoma, Busia, Kakamega and Vihiga Counties. During the Forum, the committee members considered and meditated on the scripture recorded in 1 Peter 4:10-11
Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms…
Recognizing that even in this tumultuous times that Kenya is in, there are a lot of resources that Kenyans have and they can take charge of. The Committee now shares the following message with the residents of Western Region and the entire nation.
1. Demand for Completion of All Projects Unfinished Project
We call for the completion of the following projects; In Kakamega County: multi-billion Kakamega Referral and Teaching facility, the Tumbeni milk processing plant in the Malava sub-county, Ibokolo-Malaha-Malava Road, Bukhungu Stadium, Kakamega Airstrip, Lurambi to Musikoma road and Malava to Samitsi Road. In Busia County: Expansion of Bungoma-Malaba highway, Malanga Dispensary which has had an incomplete maternity wing for the last three years, Amukura Level 4 Hospital built not operational and the Incomplete Kocholia Road. In Vihiga County: Kidundu Stadium, Hamisi Stadium, Vihiga University at Vokoli, Re-carpeting of Chavakali-Kapsabet Road which has stalled, and Stone grinery factory at Kima. In Bungoma County: Misikhu-Brigedia Road, Sikata-Kimilili Road, Musikoma-Dorofu Road, Governor’s residence in Mabanga, Industrial park in Sang’alo, Chief and Assistant Chief’s offices in Namasanda, Mwibale and Mechimeru location.
We therefore encourage all citizens to attend public participation forums, but also demand for the competition of the mentioned projects amongst others as well as participate in any other peaceful processes to present our priorities and demands to responsible duty bearers. As citizens, we must always remember that politicians are selfishly pursuing their interests, and not the interests of the people.
2. CBC Transition
The transition of the Competency Based Curriculum continues to experience various challenges amongst them shortage of infrastructure and personnel. More teachers should be employed according to their training and as per school enrollment and resources such as laboratories be accorded to schools for practical sessions. We call on the Ministry of Education to provide proper guidelines of the transition of learners from Grade 8 to Grade 9. In addition, also ensure adequate provision of infrastructure, and personnel to be accorded for a smooth transition of the students.
3. Stop Killing Kenyans
It is now with deep concern that we call upon the government of H.E President William Ruto to stop abducting and Killing Kenyans by Police officers and Secret Squads as well as with Policies and Laws that threaten the lives and future of the citizens. We especially highlight the following:
a) Revert to NHIF until the SHIF is ready
It is extremely saddening for us the clergy to watch the massive suffering of our congregants and communities we serve who are unable to access medical care following the abrupt transition to SHIF and the suspension of the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF). People are dying. For how long will this continue?
We call upon the Social Health Authority (SHA) to revert to the NHIF so as to facilitate a seamless transition to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF). The SHA should change focus from the funds to be deducted from the citizens and instead concentrate on ensuring service delivery to the people.
b) Revert to the old university funding model
Across the country, thousands of university students have failed to report to their institutions for the September intake due to the confusion created by the new funding model. What was so wrong with the previous model that it had to be changed so abruptly and without adequate public participation?
We call upon the Ministry of Education to ensure financing of all the students so that they get equipped to assume their positions in society.
c) Withdraw all the oppressive agriculture related bills
We are deeply concerned that the Members of the National Assembly have allowed themselves to be used to legislate oppressive agriculture-related bills that threaten the food security of our nation. We demand for immediate withdrawal of all the 8 bills which are:
- Agriculture and Food Authority Bill
- Livestock Bill 2024
- Mung Bean Bill 2022
- Agriculture Professional Registration and Licensing Bill 2024
- Nuts and Oil Crops Development Bill 2023
- Horticultural Crop Authority Bill 2024
- Rice Bill 2024
- Water Amendment Bill 2023
Agriculture is too important for our country to be surrendered to multinational companies.
4. Cancel the concession of airports and Make Public the KETRACO agreement to Adani Group
We are genuinely appalled at the gross irresponsibility displayed by the government officials who signed the concession of control and management of the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to Adani Airports Holdings Limited. The discussions on the matter in both National Assembly and Senate indicated that the approval of the Privately Initiated Proposal was fast-tracked and lacked the necessary scrutiny as it would result to job losses, disproportionately expose the public to fiscal risk and equally offers no value for money to the tax payer. We further call for the public disclosure of the terms of agreement for KETRACO contracts signed with the India’s Adani Energy Solutions for the construction of three transmission lines and two substations.
We call for comprehensive public participation on all government deals in the decision making process in addition to making public all information regarding Public Private Initiatives both at the county and national level.
5. Impeachment of the Deputy President
The Constitution of Kenya 2010 provides for the impeachment of the President, Governors and Deputies, and has outlined clear procedures for the same. To this extent, the Members of the National Assembly are exercising a mandate placed on them by the Constitution as they deliberate on the motion seeking impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Nonetheless, we call upon Members of Parliament to take the views expressed in the public participation sessions seriously, and not ignore it as has been witnessed in the past.
We are however concerned that this process is ostensibly being used to divert the citizens attention from the salient issues that are killing the nation. We indeed wish that the Members of Parliament exercised similar energy and resources on matters that are priority to the lives of the people of Kenya.
We appeal to all Kenyans, and especially the residents of Western Region, to remain peaceful regardless of the outcome of the impeachment process.
6. Reconstitute the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission
Being a constitutional democracy, Kenya is wholly dependent on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to oversight the process in which individuals are elected to hold governance offices. The failure to have a properly constituted IEBC is therefore a great breach of the constitutional rights of the residents of Barissa constituency as well as Nyamaiya, Kisa East, Lakezone and Chewenai Wards who have not held by-elections since those posts fell vacant.
We call upon H.E President William Ruto and all concerned stakeholders to set politics aside and facilitate completion of the process and thus adhere to the Constitutional requirements.
Conclusion
We conclude our message by recalling the guidance God has given in Jeremiah 22: 3
This is what the Lord says: Do what is just and right. Rescue from the hand of his oppressor the one who has been robbed. Do no wrong or violence to the alien, the fatherless or the widow, and do not shed innocent blood in this place.
May God Bless the Western Region and the Nation of Kenya, now and always.
Signed on this day 9th day of October 2024 at Jamindas Motel (Kakamega)
PC Seth Agala
Regional Chair Western
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Maintain Pressure for Good Governance
Maintain Pressure for Good Governance
Press Statement
Preamble
Religious leaders drawn from the National Council of Churches of Kenya, the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops, and the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims in Nairobi County have met here at Ufungamano House, Nairobi, to review the state of service delivery in the county and the nation. The meeting was inspired by the prayer we always make through our National Anthem:
Let all with one accord, in common bond united, build this our nation together
And the glory of Kenya, the fruit of our labour, fill every heart with thanksgiving
Recognizing that Kenya is going through a difficult and challenging moment, we now share the following message with the residents of Nairobi County and the entire nation.
1. Serve Nairobians, Not Just Your Pockets
We are gravely disappointed that despite reportedly collecting more than a billion shillings in revenue, Nairobi County is worse than it was before the current government took office two years ago. The city is characterized by uncollected garbage, poor delivery of basic services such as water, discrimination in infrastructural projects whereby roads are only repaired selectively, rampant corruption, and a chaotic Central Business District. Our beloved city has lost its glamour, and is no longer attracting new investors who instead prefer to go to neighboring countries.
We now demand that His Excellency Johnson Sakaja, the County Governor, speedily transforms the government so as to deliver services and resources to the people of Nairobi. It is time to remove the cartels in City Hall and instead build structures for people-centered development.
Dear Governor, instill order in the Central Business District, clean out corruption in the county government, clear rubbish from the CBD and the estates, and create a healthy business environment for all. Then you will prosper, and will leave a wholesome legacy when your term comes to an end.
2. Demand for Better Governance
On their part, we call upon all the residents of Nairobi County to increase the demand for better governance by responsibility holders at national and county levels. We must go beyond complaining in our small cocoons and make our voices heard.
We therefore encourage all citizens to attend public participation forums, in addition to participating in any other peaceful processes to present our priorities and demands to responsibility holders. As citizens, we must always remember that politicians are selfishly pursuing only their interests, not the interests of the people.
3. Stop Killing Kenyans
It is now with deep concern that we call upon the government of His Excellency President William Ruto to stop killing Kenyans with policies and laws that threaten the lives and future of the citizens. We especially highlight the following:
a) Revert to NHIF until the SHIF is ready
It is extremely saddening for us the clergy to watch the massive suffering by our worshippers who are unable to access medical care following the abrupt suspension of the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF). People are dying. For how long will this continue?
We call upon the Social Health Authority (SHA) to revert to the NHIF so as to facilitate a seamless transition to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF). The SHA should change focus from the funds to be deducted from the citizens and instead concentrate on ensuring service delivery to the people.
b) Revert to the old university funding model
Across the country, thousands of university students have failed to report to their institutions due to the confusion created by the new funding model. What was so wrong with the previous model that it had to be changed so abruptly and without adequate public participation?
We call upon the Ministry of Education to ensure financing of all the students so that they get equipped to assume their positions in society.
c) Withdraw all the oppressive agriculture related bills
We are deeply concerned that the Members of the National Assembly have allowed themselves to be used to legislate oppressive agriculture-related bills that threaten the food security of our nation. We demand for immediate withdrawal of all the 9 bills. Agriculture is too important for our country to be surrendered to multinational companies.
d) Cancel the concession of airports to Adani Airports Holdings Limited
We are genuinely appalled at the gross irresponsibility displayed by the government officials who signed the concession of control and management of the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to Adani Airports Holdings Limited. The discussions on the matter in both National Assembly and Senate indicated that the approval of the Privately Initiated Proposal was fast-tracked and lacked the necessary scrutiny. What is that the Kenya Airports Authority is unable to do that the foreigners will do? Were the approvals informed by genuine need or driven by corruption?
4. Impeachment of the Deputy President
The Constitution of Kenya 2010 provides for the impeachment of the President and Governors and their Deputies, and has outlined clear procedures for the same. To this extent, the Members of the National Assembly are exercising a mandate placed on them by the Constitution as they deliberate on the motion seeking impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Nonetheless, we call upon Parliamentarians to take the views expressed in the public participation sessions seriously, and not ignore it as has been witnessed in the past.
We are however concerned that this process is ostensibly being used to divert the citizens from the salient issues that are killing the nation. We indeed wish that the Members of Parliament exercised similar energy and resources on matters that are priority to the lives of the people of Kenya.
We appeal to all Kenyans, and especially the residents of Nairobi, to remain peaceful regardless of the outcome of the impeachment process.
Conclusion
We conclude our message by recalling the guidance God has given in Jeremiah 22: 3
This is what the Lord says: Do what is just and right. Rescue from the hand of his oppressor the one who has been robbed. Do no wrong or violence to the alien, the fatherless or the widow, and do not shed innocent blood in this place.
And also in Surah Ar-Raid 11
Indeed, Allah would never change a people’s state of favour until they change their own state of faith.
We appeal to all Kenyans to actively increase the pressure in demanding for good governance and accountability from all political leaders. On our part, we have committed to resume the commitment to deny politicians access to pulpits in our places of worship.
May God bless the Nairobi County and entire nation now and always.
Signed on this 8rd day of October 2024 at Christian Students Leadrship Center (Ufungamano House), Nairobi.
Rev Dr Alphonse Kanga
NCCK Nairobi Region
Simon Muiruri
KCCB Nairobi
Salim Ibrahim
SUPKEM Nairobi
- Published in News
Tree Nurseries for Climate Resilience
Tree Nurseries for Climate Resilience
The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) has trained 21 patrons of 4K Clubs in in Primary Schools in Kitui County on establishment and management of tree nurseries. Also trained were 30 Environment Faith Champions.
The training is part of NCCK’s ongoing efforts to combat deforestation, promote climate resilience, and establish sustainable environmental practices within schools and religious communities.
The Patrons and Environment Champions were then commissioned to equip their groups and communities with the same skills. The tree nurseries established will be essential to the region’s agroforestry and reforestation initiatives, assisting in the restoration of damaged landscapes and encouraging community-driven conservation initiatives.
The training focused on critical topics that included site selection, seedling selection, seedbed preparation, watering and maintenance, pest and disease management, and transplanting.
Mark Musyoka, an environmentalist at the Greencare Association, emphasized the importance of local community involvement in conservation efforts.
“Tree nurseries offer a long-term solution to environmental degradation. Their success however depends on the commitment of everybody including schools and faith-based centres,” he emphasized.
Following the training, , expressed his excitement about the program.
“The training has provided us with the information necessary to not only teach our students about environmental conservation, but also to take real actions to establish nurseries that will benefit both the school and the community,” said Alex Musyimi, a 4K Club Patron from Ndivuni Primary School, adding, “We look forward to establishing a tree nursery and involving our students in every step of the process.”
Pastor Dancun Munyao, one of the faith champions, shared his thoughts on the training, saying it was informative and timely.
“Caring for the environment is a responsibility that aligns with our faith, and this training has given us the tools to lead our congregations in practicing good stewardship of God’s creation. When we establish tree nurseries within our churches, we will lead by example and inspire others to do the same. It will be joyous if every church takes a lead in making our environment green.”
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VSLA Inspiring Hope: The Journey of Tene ne Tene Group
VSLA Inspiring Hope: The Journey of Tene ne Tene Group
In the Kilawa sub-location, deep in Athi Ward of Kitui County, a silent transformation is taking place, converting sceptics into believers.
In April 2024, Tene ne Tene, a Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA) group, was born as part of a broader initiative under the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK)’s Nature Positive Project.
There was little hope for the group when it first began. Many members had doubts about its ability to actually improve their lives. Some even needed to be coerced, if not openly forced by other members, to go to the group’s gatherings.
But four months later, Tene ne Tene is experiencing renewed enthusiasm, and the group’s accomplishments are quieting the sceptics. The group, which boast of 15 members, had saved Ksh30,000, with each member contributing between Ksh50 and Ksh250 per week.
Tene ne Tene started with a small mission: weekly savings to build a fund from which members could draw when needed. However, the group’s goals rose along with the savings. With their combined resources, the group decided to establish a goat-buying initiative. The plan was simple: buy goats for each group member to improve their economic condition.
So far, four of the 15 group members have received goats, and the others are excitedly awaiting their turn. Goats provide much more than simply the promise of milk and meat. They represent a sustainable source of income, allowing families to rely on, trade, and expand their assets as they see fit.
“At first, most of us didn’t believe in the concept, but we continued showing up. Now we can see the impact, and it gives us hope for the future,” said Emmanuel Wambua, Tene ne Tene chairperson.
Munyiva Paul, one of the group members, stated, “I am proud of this group. It is changing our lives, and we appreciate NCCK. We never expected to be here so quickly.”
Tene ne Tene is only one of the more than 100 VSLA groups NCCK established in the area as a component of the Nature Positive Project. In addition to savings and loan activities, VSLA groups, such as Tene ne Tene, frequently participate in environmental conservation efforts such as establishing tree nurseries, tree planting and social and water management.
The group’s tale will keep inspiring Kilawa and the larger Athi Ward as more goats are bought and livelihoods are bolstered. It demonstrates what is possible when people come together, believe in themselves, and take bold measures toward change.
- Published in News
Digitalizing Conservation Agriculture
NCCK Digitalizing Conservation Agriculture
The NCCK is set to digitalize agricultural practices in Tharaka Nithi county through the distribution of 90 smartphones to Conservation Agriculture Lead Farmers drawn from Mukothima ward, Nkondi ward, Gatunga ward, Marimanti ward and Gatunga ward of Tharaka Nithi County.
With support from the Canadian Food Grains Bank through the United Church of Canada, the NCCK is building the food security of more than 4,000 households in Tharaka Nithi County through promotion of Conservation Agriculture. The trainings are delivered by the Lead Farmers, each of whom leads and capacity builds a group of 25 – 30 farmers.
Equipping the Lead Farmers with smartphones will enable them access relevant information in real-time in addition to engaging with service providers, suppliers and customers. The smartphones will enhance the capacity of the Lead Farmers to train their groups by enabling them to take photographs and record videos of diseases, pests, and Conservation Agricultural practices.
Further, the Lead Farmers were trained to use the smartphones to maintain accurate and analysable data on farm inputs, varieties, yields, cost of production and sales. This will enable the livelihoods to make data-driven decisions.
- Published in News
Letter to CS Prof Kindiki on Respect for Rule of Law
September 16, 2024
Prof Kithure Kindiki, EGH
Cabinet Secretary
Ministry of Interior and National Administration
Harambee House
P. O. Box 30510, 00100
NAIROBI
Dear Honourable CS,
RE: RESPECT FOR THE RULE OF LAW
Receive warm greetings from the National Council of Churches of Kenya.
The NCCK is deeply concerned by the reports that the security for Justice Lawrence Mugambi, judge of the High Court of Kenya, has been withdrawn shortly after he delivered a ruling in which the Acting Inspector General was sentenced to 6 months imprisonment. This action is direct intimidation of a Judicial officer, and whose effect is undermining the rule of law upon which the Constitution of Kenya 2010 is premised.
Further disturbing is the fact that the ruling delivered by the judge arose from a case where the National Police Service failed to comply with a ruling that required three persons to be physically presented in the court. The Acting Inspector General thereafter failed to act on summons to attend court hearings on the same.
We find this to be the latest in a series of cases where state officials have deliberately disobeyed court orders without any consequences. This is the bedrock on which impunity is birthed and nurtured, to the detriment of the welfare of the nation.
Whereas Article 3 (1) of the Constitution provides that “Every person has an obligation to respect, uphold and defend this Constitution”, Article 244 (c) requires the National Police Service to “comply with constitutional standards of human rights and fundamental freedoms”. Further to these, the Constitution in Article 245 (4) states: “The Cabinet Secretary responsible for police services may lawfully give a direction to the Inspector-General with respect to any matter of policy for the National Police Service”.
We therefore ask that in your capacity as the Cabinet Secretary provide directions to the Inspector General with regard to:
- The National Police Service, as an institution and as pertains individual officers, must comply with rulings made by the Judiciary, respecting it as an independent constitutional organ established to protect justice and rule of law
- The provision of security services of Justice Mugambi be reinstated immediately
We wish to call to mind that whenever state officers undermine the rule of law, they send a signal to the citizens that anarchy will be tolerated.
We write to request your good offices to comply with the Constitution of Kenya, the mandate of the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, and save Kenya from anarchy.
Yours truly
Rev Dr Elias Agola
CHAIRMAN
Rev Canon Chris Kinyanjui
GENERAL SECRETARY
Copy to
Hon Martha Koome, EGH
Chief Justice and President of the Supreme Court of Kenya
- Published in News