Let Us Recognize and Dignify Living with Disability
Let Us Recognize and Dignify Living with Disability
Communique of the Persons With Disabilities Pre Assembly
John 9: 1 – 3
As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life”.
Just over 60 persons with disabilities from 20 counties have participated in a two-day Pre Assembly organized by the National Council of Churches of Kenya at Jumuia Conference and Country Home, Limuru. As a precursor to the 65th General Assembly of the NCCK, the PWDs Pre Assembly was guided by the theme Redefining Disability: Recognizing and Appreciating Disabilities.
Recognizing that a million Kenyans live with disabilities, the NCCK appreciates the need for all actors to take deliberate measures for Inclusion, Empowerment and Integration of Persons with Disabilities. Towards this, this Pre Assembly recommends the following.
1. Accord Persons With Disabilities Dignity
Despite constituting 2 per cent of the population, persons with disabilities continue to experience exclusion and stigmatization in social, political, economic and professional spheres. This exclusion is largely driven by ignorance, prejudices, and social beliefs and attitudes that portray persons living with disabilities negatively. This status needs to be changed so that all individuals live their lives to the fullest extent possible, just as we read the declaration of Jesus in John 10: 10 – I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
It is therefore essential that all stakeholders in the society play their role in promoting the Inclusion, Empowerment and Integration of persons with disability in community life.
a) Message to Church
It is through the church that we are enabled to build and nurture relationship with God. It is therefore important for all churches and congregations to be friendly to persons with disabilities in their attitudes and ministry. Let us allow persons with disabilities to participate and contribute in the ministry and leadership of our churches. Further, we urge all church buildings be easily accessible by persons with disabilities.
In addition, we encourage all clergy to integrate messages of inclusion and empowerment of persons with disabilities in their sermons, as well as designating a day for celebrating persons with disabilities. This will promote their inclusion, and also build their self confidence to participate in social life.
b) Message to the National Government
We call upon the government to action and provide regular updates on the implementation of Article 54 (2) of the Constitution of Kenya which provides that “The State shall ensure the progressive implementation of the principle that at least five percent of the members of the public in elective and appointive bodies are persons with disabilities”.
Towards this, we specifically appeal for:
One, that the university entry requirements for persons who go through special education be reviewed to ensure that they attain higher education for professional growth
Two, that the National Council for Persons With Disabilities seeks judicial intervention to have the County Assemblies that do not have the required representation of special categories dissolved
Three, that the cash transfers for persons with disabilities be disbursed to all those registered with NCPWD
Four, that the review of the Persons With Disabilities Bill 2024 be expedited
c) Message to County Governments
We call upon the County Governments to provide opportunities for persons with disabilities to establish and grow dignified livelihoods. We especially appeal that businesses owned by persons with disabilities be exempted from duties, rates and taxes. This will accord them the dignity to contribute effectively to the life of the society.
Further, we urge the county governments to establish and maintain PWD friendly sports facilities. It is essential to provide space and support for paraplegic sports across the country.
Above all, we call upon the Council of Governors to spearhead the domestication and implementation of the Persons With Disabilities policies and laws, and the integration of the same in county laws.
d) Message to All Kenyans
Dear Brothers and Sisters, disability is not inability. God made us all in His image, regardless of our abilities. Let us all recognize and appreciate that persons with disabilities have full lives ahead of them.
Do not hide children or relatives who have disabilities, and instead give them opportunities to identify and nurture their talents and gifts.
Let us always be inspired and guided by the provision of Article 54 (1) (a) of the Constitution of Kenya: A person with any disability is entitled to be treated with dignity and respect and to be addressed and referred to in a manner that is not demeaning.
2. Stand Firm and Be Strong
In Joshua 1: 9, God tells all of us:
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
We call upon all our brothers and sisters to courageously assume positions of leadership in public, private and business sectors. No one will appoint you just because you have a disability. You must rise and position yourself to take up positions for which you are qualified.
We especially encourage all persons with disabilities to ensure they present memoranda to the Senate on the Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill 2024 with regard to the proposed change of Article 54.
In addition, we encourage all of us to actively participate and seek leadership in political parties. This will ensure that persons with disabilities are appropriately positioned for appointment and election to political positions and thus enable them participate in decision making processes. We should not exclude ourselves from the social-political life of the nation.
3. Special Focus on Children With Disabilities
Children are naturally vulnerable, and parents and society have a responsibility to care for them. The vulnerability of children with disabilities is much greater. It is at this stage that many dreams, potentials, talents and gifts are snuffed out when caregivers fail to appropriately nurture the children.
We call upon all parents and caregivers of children with disabilities to embrace the young ones and focus on supporting them to live full lives. Let us create safe environments for children with disabilities in our homes, churches, schools and societies.
4. Conclusion
We conclude by recognizing that God gave us different abilities so that we all honor and serve Him in our different ways. It is therefore essential for all of us as Kenyans to include, empower and integrate persons with disabilities in social life.
Let us all endeavour to live up to the aspiration we espouse in our National Anthem
Natujenge taifa letu, Ee ndio wajibu wetu, Kenya istahili heshima
Tuungane mikono, Pamoja kazini, Kila siku tuwe na shukrani
May God bless Kenya now and always.
Pastor Geoffrey Wanyoike
Chairperson, NCCK PWDs Pre Assembly
- Published in News
It is Time to Serve – Nairobi Region
It is Time to Serve
Press Statement
Preamble
The County and Regional officials of the NCCK Nairobi Region have held an induction workshop here at Jumuia Conference and Country Home, Limuru, on 3rd and 4th June 2024. The officials were elected during the County Coordinating Committee meetings and the Regional Conference held earlier this year. They will hold office for the next three years.
During the forum, the officials reflected on the scripture recorded in Ecclesiastes 3: 1
There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under heaven.
The officials considered the state of Kiambu and Nairobi counties, and now observe the following.
1. Stop Politicking and Focus on Work
We in the NCCK Nairobi Region are deeply concerned that national focus is still being riveted on electoral politics yet elections are three years away. This persistent obsession with elections by political leaders continues to hinder human, economic and infrastructural development in our nation.
We strongly call upon the political leaders, whether in government or outside, to cease the persistent electioneering and focus on delivering on their responsibilities. After elections, focus should be on service delivery and policy development and implementation. Work done should be focused on serving the people of Kenya, not on positioning oneself for the next election.
In this regard, we call upon HE President William Ruto and Deputy President HE Rigathi Gachagua to end the bickering between their supporters as it is threatening to split the country.
2. Participate in Finance Bill 2024 Discussion
We have taken note that the Department Committee on Finance and National Planning has convened a public sitting on Monday June 10, 2024 at the Kenyatta International Convention Center (KICC). In the first instance, we are concerned that the time provided for the sittings is very short.
Nonetheless, we call upon all the residents of Kiambu and Nairobi Counties to attend the public forum on Monday and present their views of the Finance Bill 2024. On our part, we are mobilizing the congregants of our churches to engage in this crucial governance process as it affects the lives of all.
3. Be Humane in Demolitions
Over the last month, the government has undertaken demolition of houses on riparian lands. We are however concerned about the sense of injustice and inequity being manifested in the process.
While appreciating the desire to secure the environment, we have noted the cry of the more than 180,000 people who have been evicted from their homes without being offered alternative accommodation. The ten thousand shillings offered by the government is not adequate for anyone to relocate. We urge the government to reconsider this and allocate other lands for the people to resettle.
Further to this, we call upon the government to exercise equality by reclaiming all riparian lands. There should not be distinction between the rich and the poor when government policies are implemented.
4. Provide for Public Participation in Electoral Reforms
We in Nairobi Region take not that processes to implement the report of the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) are continuing. It is however a major concern to us that most Kenyans are neither conversant with nor are they supporting the proposals made in the report. The piece-meal processing of the NADCO related Bills by Parliament means that electoral reforms will be effected but without adequate public participation.
We call upon the Speakers of the National Assembly and the Senate to publish the NADCO report in a manner accessible to all Kenyans. Further, the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee of Parliament should visit all the counties to receive input from the citizens on the proposed reforms. The maxim “nothing about us without us” should be observed.
In the meantime, we call upon President Ruto and other concerned stakeholders to facilitate speedy reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). We remind all that the country is in a very precarious position, and has already breached the Constitution by failing to undertake the required boundaries review process. There are also Wards and a Constituency that require by-elections and have not been facilitated to get elected representatives.
This injustice should be brought to an end.
Conclusion
We conclude ty remind all the residents of Kiambu and Nairobi counties, and the entire nation, to embrace and progress the prayer we make in the 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
May God bless the Nairobi Region now and always.
Signed on this 4th day of June 2024 at Jumuia Conference and Country Home, Limuru.
Rev Dr Alphonse Kanga
Regional Chairman, NCCK Nairobi Region
- Published in News
Happy Madaraka Day 2024
The National Council of Churches of Kenya wishes all Kenyans a Happy Madaraka Day 2024
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Transform Our Livelihoods to Dignify Our Lives – Western
Transform Our Livelihoods to Dignify Our Lives
Press Statement
Preamble
The 14th Regional Conference of the NCCK Western Region has been held here at St Patrick’s Pastoral Center, Kabula, on 16th and 17th May 2024, under the theme “Dignified Livelihoods, Resilient Communities (Galatians 6: 9)”. The Regional Conference is a core governance organ of the NCCK that meets once every 3 years, and in Western Region it brings together delegates from Bungoma, Busia, Kakamega and Vihiga Counties. During the Conference, the delegates considered and meditated on the scripture recorded in Isaiah 43: 18 – 19
Forget the former thins, do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it sprigs up, do you not perceive it?
Having appreciated the importance of transformation of the way things are so as to embrace the new, the NCCK Western Region now shares the following message:
1. Transform Agricultural Economy
The Western Region has for decades been Kenya’s bread basket, the bastion of food production. This Regional Conference is therefore shocked that both the national and county governments have neglected this critical sector, leaving the residents to suffer in abject poverty. Political leaders have failed to inspire value addition or agri-business strategies, and instead keep people’s attention focused on maize and sugar factories. It is no wonder then that residents continue to produce the same crops using the same techniques as they did 50 years ago. This status is not sustainable and must be changed.
We therefore strongly recommend as follows:
One, the sugar sector requires a radical transformation to make it farmer-centric. Farmers should control every stage of sugar production, processing and sale. Indeed we dream of a time when the farmers will be empowered to engage in small scale value addition to increase their incomes and liberalise the sector.
Two, we call upon the county governments and non government partners to work with our communities to identify other high potential crops that can grow in these counties to diversify livelihoods of the farmers. Our people are crying for freedom from the persistent bondage to middlemen and obsolete technologies.
Three, we plead with our development partners to support trainings and initiatives aimed at inspiring the youth to embrace agriculture, value addition and agri-business as sustainable livelihood options.
Fourthly, we call upon the national and county governments to reduce taxes and levies charged on agricultural inputs and products. Food security should not be made very easy and affordable.
2. Transform Mindsets to Fight Corruption
This Regional Committee recognizes that corruption is the greatest tragedy devastating our nation. Corruption has become so entrenched in our society, affecting every sector. We are indeed similar to the nation described in Micah 3: 11
Her leaders judge for a bribe, her priests teach for a price, and her prophets tell fortunes for money. Yet they lean upon the Lord and say, “Is not the Lord among us? No disaster will come upon us”.
We recognize that this level of corruption cannot be dealt with through rhetoric and judicial punishments. What we require is a radical transformation of mindsets of Kenyans so that every citizen rejects and abhors corruption at an individual level. We call upon the Ethics and Anti Corruption Commission to spearhead this campaign of demonizing corruption and glorifying good morals.
In the meantime, we call upon the Judiciary to protect Kenyans by ensuring that all corruption-related cases are speedily prosecuted and maximum sentences decreed.
3. Reduce Taxation
We in this Regional Conference is shocked that the government is acting in a very insensitive manner by increasing taxes every other day. It is a gross injustice to increase taxes so at to match those of developed and first world countries while the government is not providing first world services. The people spend their incomes to cover for services and infrastructure the government is not providing.
We urge the government to remember that the increases in taxation is raising despair, anger and depression among the people, which is a recipe for chaos and social disintegration.
4. Validate the NADCO Report
Earlier this year, the National Assembly adopted the report of the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) and commenced its implementation. The recommendations by the NADCO have far reaching implications on the current and future of the lives of Kenyans. On account of the impact that the proposed recommendations will have on the Constitution and Laws of Kenya, we call upon Parliament to make the process people driven. We call upon the Speaker of National Assembly, Hon Moses Wetangula, to facilitate this by:
One, publishing the NADCO report in a way that is accessible to all Kenyans
Two, having the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee visit all the counties to receive feedback from the citizens on the NADCO report and proposed constitutional and legislative amendments, then use that feedback to fine tune the process.
We caution that failure to do this could cause the NADCO process to suffer the same fate as the Building Bridges Initiative some years ago.
5. 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 His Excellency President William Ruto and all concerned stakeholders to set politics aside and facilitate completion of the process.
Further, we urge the Attorney General to seek an advisory from the Supreme Court of Kenya on the next course of action following the lapse of the constitutional deadline for review of boundaries.
6. Use Electricity Safely
This Regional Conference has noted with concern that the number of electricity-related accidents is rising, with reports that 130 deaths were reported last year while 90 have been killed so far this year.
Considering that the majority of electricity-related accidents result from illegal connections, poor wiring in houses, and operating under power lines, we call upon all the residents of our counties and the entire country to take care of their lives. To progress this understanding, we in the NCCK have partnered with the Kenya Power and Lighting Company to use our platforms to sensitize community members to use electricity safely. We especially recommend the following to the residents in our counties:
One, only engage licensed electricians to do wiring in your houses;
Two, ensure that electricity supply is connected by Kenya Power and Lighting Company itself; and
Three, avoid putting any buildings or businesses underneath powerlines
7. New Regional Leadership
This Regional Conference wishes to inform all that we have elected a new team of officials who will hold office for the term 2024 – 2027. These are:
Chairperson: Presiding Clerk Seth Agala
Vice Chair: Col Samuel Opuka
Hon Treasurer: Rt Rev John Okude
Women Rep: Centrine Wanjala
Youth Rep: Christabel Jomo
PWD Rep: Grace Ahono
Conclusion
We conclude by expressing our condolences to the families of all Kenyans who have died in the ongoing floods. We have also taken time to pray for all the affected individuals and families for consolation and quick recovery. Further, we continue to raise relief items through our congregations and share with those in need. Our churches remain open to accommodate any persons who have been displaced.
It is our prayer that all of us as Kenyans will embrace transformation of lives and livelihoods so that we grow to become a better people. May the message of Romans 12: 2 inspire us continually:
Do not conform an longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve of what God’s will is – His good, pleasing and perfect will.
May God bless the Western Kenya and the entire nation.
Presiding Clerk Seth Agala
Regional Chairman, NCCK Western Region
- Published in News
End Corruption to Dignify Lives of Kenyans – NCCK Nyanza
End Corruption to Dignify Lives of Kenyans
Press Statement
Preamble
The NCCK Nyanza Region has held its 14th Regional Conference here at Jumuia Hotel Kisumu on 13th and 14th May 2024. The Regional Conference is held once every three years to transact statutory business, provide space for fellowship, and provide recommendations to the nation for transformation of lives for a sustainable society. The NCCK Nyanza Region brings together Homa Bay. Kisii. Kisumu, Migori, Nyamira, and Siaya Counties.
Inspired by the theme “Dignified Livelihoods, Resilient Communities” in the context of consideration of the Church, Justice and Relevance, the Regional Conference meditated on the scripture recorded in Deuteronomy 16: 19
Do not pervert justice or show partiality. Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and twists the words of the righteous.
Considering the extent to which corruption has devastated the lives of Kenyans, we now share this message of inspiration with all Kenyans and moreso the residents of Nyanza Region.
1. Meaningfully Fight Corruption
The greatest tragedy of our nation is that justice, professionalism, equity and equality before the law have been sacrificed on the altar of corruption. Political power is continuously being used for selfish enrichment at the expense of the citizens who are trapped in a downward spiral of impoverishment. It is very sad that some government officials at both county and national levels have adopted the horrendous trend of competing with each other as to who is more corrupt than the other. We have become what God described as a nation headed for destruction as we read in Micah 3: 11
Her leaders judge for a bribe, her priests teach for a price, and her prophets tell fortunes for money. Yet they lean upon the Lord and say, “Is not the Lord among us? No disaster will come upon us”.
We now call upon the national and county governments to focus on radical transformation of their mindsets from the hunter-gatherer mentality that pushes them to grab everything in sight. The future of our nation depends on the deliberate measures we take to change from a consumerism mentality to a producer mentality. To achieve this, we recommend the following:
One, let the government plans and budgets be primarily focused on production and value addition, not just on expenditure for purchase of goods and services.
Two, we challenge the Judiciary, the National Police Service, Parliament and the Executive to end their persistent and meaningless bickering and let each play their part in taking action against every person who engages in corruption. Let us always remember the warning God gives us in Ecclesiastes 8: 11
When the sentence for a crime is not QUICKLY carried out, the hearts of the people are filled with schemes to do wrong.
Thirdly, we encourage the Ethics and Anti Corruption Commission (EACC) to change strategy and instead focus on instilling ethics and integrity in the citizens by permeating values in the education curriculum at all levels.
Fourthly, we call upon all Kenyans to rise up and demand for implementation of Chapter Six of the Constitution of Kenya. We must unite to root out corruption and bad governance from our nation.
On our part, we commit to take the period between now and the next elections to educate our people on integrity and values, and will integrate the same in our churches.
2. Dignify Livelihoods
This Regional Conference has noted with concern that there are policies being put in place by Parliament and County Assemblies are killing dignified livelihood options of the citizens. The Finance Acts passed by Parliament in the past 5 years, as well as the County Finance Appropriation Bills, have systematically muzzled businesses and investments by raising taxation to unmanageable levels. This is killing the future lives of our people by hindering micro-level industrialization. To remedy this, we strongly recommend:
One, we urge our county governments to provide favourable business environments by consolidating and rationalizing all the fees, levies and licenses required by different agencies and authorities. Starting and running a business should be made extremely easy, recognizing that the higher the number of enterprises translates to higher income for the county governments.
Two, we continue to plead with the national and county governments to reduce the level of taxation. It is shocking to us that government officials can be so insensitive as to propose new taxes in the Finance Bill 2024. This is increasing depression among the people, and we do not know whether the government has considered the implications of a depressed and angry populace.
3. Promote Food Security
Despite having arable land, most of the families in our countries are not food secure. Further, those who engage in farming do not always produce the best suited crops for their areas, while using the same techniques and technologies as they did 50 years ago. We appeal to our county governments to:
One, organize trainings for farmers on innovation and value addition to improve their incomes and welfare
Two, employ and deploy agricultural field officers to mentor farmers on crop and animal production
Three, develop initiatives that inspire the youth to embrace agriculture and value addition as dignified livelihoods
On its part, we call upon the Ethics and Anti Corruption Commission to speedily investigate and ensure action on corruption cases in land registries in which innocent Kenyans are being robbed of their properties through falsification and forced disappearance of records.
On our part, we will upscale the use of our church facilities as training and demonstration sites to promote agriculture.
4. Reconstitute the IEBC for Electoral Dignity
We in this Regional Conference are concerned that the government and other political actors are putting the nation deeper into a constitutional crisis by hindering the recruitment of commissioners for the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). We remind all who are involved that citizens in one constituency and four wards do not have elected representatives, while Kisii County does not have a Deputy Governor.
We call upon His Excellency President William Ruto and all concerned stakeholders to set politics aside and facilitate completion of the process.
Further, we urge the Attorney General to seek an advisory from the Supreme Court of Kenya on the next course of action following the lapse of the constitutional deadline for review of boundaries.
5. Make the NADCO Reforms People Driven
Following the eruption of crisis and violence after the 2022 General Elections, the leading coalitions set up the bipartisan National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) to restore peace. However, the report that the NADCO submitted to Parliament went beyond addressing the political dispute and recommended major changes in the Constitution and electoral laws.
On account of the impact that the proposed reforms will have on the lives of the citizens, we call upon Parliament to make the process people driven by:
One, publish the NADCO report in a way that is accessible to all Kenyans, and
Two, have the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee visit all counties to receive the feedback of the people on the proposed reforms
On our part, we have committed to use our structures and platforms to educate the people on the reforms proposed through the NADCO report and related Bills of Parliament.
6. Use Electricity Safely
The records held by Kenya Power Company indicate that more than 90 people have died in electricity related accidents so far this year. If this trend holds, we are likely to lose more people this year to electricity related accidents than we did last year. We appeal to all Kenyans to exercise safety when using electricity, taking into consideration that most accidents arise from illegal connections, faulty wiring in houses, and operating beneath power lines. To not take unnecessary risks, and we strongly recommend the following:
One, only engage licensed electricians to do wiring in your houses;
Two, ensure that electricity supply is connected by Kenya Power and Lighting Company itself; and
Three, avoid putting any buildings or businesses underneath powerlines
On our part as NCCK, we will continue to use our platforms and structures to educate people to use electricity safely.
Conclusion
We conclude by urging all the residents of Nyanza Region and the entire county to take to mind the word of God recorded in Deuteronomy 16: 20
Follow justice and justice alone, so that you may live and possess the land the Lord your God is giving you.
We also wish to inform you that the Regional Conference elected a new team of officials to hold office 2024 – 2027. These are:
Chairperson: Rt Rev John Mark Godia
Vice Chair: Bishop Titus Okoda
Hon Treasurer: Pastor Kenneth Ouma
Women Rep: Linnet Angwenyi
Youth Rep: Stephen Mkapa
PWD Rep: Paul Ongwae
May God bless the Nyanza Region now and always.
Signed on this 14th day of May 2024 at Jumuia Hotel, Kisumu.
Rt Rev John Mark Godia
Regional Chairman, NCCK Nyanza Region
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2,300 Trees Planted in Baringo County – NCCK and Partners
2,300 Trees Planted in Baringo County – NCCK and Partners
The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) has planted 10,200 trees in Athi Ward, Kitui County, over the past week.
The massive tree planting exercise has been done in partnership with community members in Kalivu, Monguni, Kalivu and Kilawa sub-locations as a contribution to a greener and healthier environment.
A total of 867 households received and planted 8,000 trees, while 2,100 trees were distributed to 21 primary schools, with getting 100 trees. Additionally, the Council planted 100 trees in a local church.
Overall, the NCCK is targeting to plant 100,000 trees in Athi Ward as part of the Nature Positive project that is focused on restorative environmental redemption approaches.
- Published in News
NCCK plants 10,200 in Athi Ward
The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) has planted 10,200 trees in Athi Ward, Kitui County, over the past week.
The massive tree planting exercise has been done in partnership with community members in Kalivu, Monguni, Kalivu and Kilawa sub-locations as a contribution to a greener and healthier environment.
A total of 867 households received and planted 8,000 trees, while 2,100 trees were distributed to 21 primary schools, with getting 100 trees. Additionally, the Council planted 100 trees in a local church.
Overall, the NCCK is targeting to plant 100,000 trees in Athi Ward as part of the Nature Positive project that is focused on restorative environmental redemption approaches.
- Published in News
Safeguard Dignified Livelihoods – Upper Eastern Region
Safeguard Dignified Livelihoods
Press Statement
Preamble
The 14th Regional Conference of the NCCK Upper Eastern Region, comprising of delegates from Isiolo, Marsabit, Meru and Tharaka Nithi counties, has been held here at Gitooro Pastoral Center, Meru, on 7th and 8th May 2024. The theme of the of the Regional Conference was “Dignified Livelihoods, Resilient Communities (Galatians 6: 9)”.
The Regional Conference considered the meaning of the scripture recorded in Micah 4: 4
Every man will sit under his own vine and under his own fig tree, and no one will make them afraid, for the Lord Almighty has spoken.
Recognizably, it is God’s will that all people have dignified lives. It is therefore the mandate of all institutions to build resilient communities by enabling all people to have dignified livelihoods. Towards this, we share the following message and recommendations with the residents of Upper Eastern Region and the entire nation.
1. Rebuild the Livelihoods of Flood Disaster Survivors
It is with great sadness that this Regional Conference has taken time to pray for the families of the more than 250 Kenyans who have lost their lives in the ongoing floods disaster. We have also prayed for all those who have been injured or otherwise physically affected, as well as those who have lost their houses and livelihoods due to the floods.
While appreciating the efforts by the government to rescue those who have been marooned and those displaced, we call upon all Kenyans to participate in providing assistance to our brothers and sisters. We call upon the government to intensify the provision of relief and emergency accommodation to the affected families to bring their suffering to an end. Further, the national and county governments should come up with clear and enforceable strategies to relocate citizens from location that are at risk of flooding. No Kenyan should be affected by flooding year after year.
On our part, we are working though our congregations to collect materials and funds to provide relief and support to those caught up in the emergency. Financial donations can also be sent through the NCCK Paybill number 519900.
2. End the Doctors’ Strike
On the back of the flooding disaster, there is an emerging outbreak of waterborne diseases, with the Ministry of Health confirming 34 cases of cholera in Tana River County. The risk remains high as the floods have contaminated water sources with sewerage and other wastes.
There is however a great danger facing Kenyans due to the ongoing strike by doctors and other medical workers. It is obnoxious that the strike is now in the 8th week without a solution in sight. This must be brought to an end, and we call upon the doctors and the national and county governments to engage in meaningful dialogue to end the crisis. The officials on both sides should take responsibility and step aside if they are unable to bring the suffering of Kenyans to an end.
3. Address Alcohol, Drug and Substance Abuse
The residents of Upper Eastern Region counties continue to suffer greatly from the ravages of alcohol, drug and substance abuse. What is of concern is that the government, at both national and county levels, seem powerless to stop the production and sale of illicit brews and drugs.
The result of this lethargy by the governments is the destruction of lives of the youth and middle aged men and women. Families have been impoverished as productivity has dropped below minimum, leading to massive suffering.
Since government officials know who the producers and distributors of the illicit substances, we demand that decisive action is taken against them without further delay. The cases of suspects being arrested and released in unclear circumstances should not be heard of again.
On their part, we call upon the Judiciary to ensure speedy prosecution of the alcohol and drug related cases. Do not agree to unnecessary delays, and take action against any persons who interfere with witnesses.
This menace will only end when perpetrators are punished and seen to be punished, taking into consideration the wisdom God has shared in Ecclesiastes 8: 11
When the sentence for a crime is not quickly carried out, the hearts of the people are filled with schemes to do wrong.
On our part, we remain committed to preaching and counseling our people so as to reduce the demand for abuse of alcohol, drugs and substances.
4. Reconstitute the IEBC for Electoral Dignity
As provided in the Constitution of Kenya, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is a crucial body responsible for overseeing elections and validating nominations to governance positions. It is also the body mandated to undertake the review of electoral boundaries.
We therefore find it a major injustice that the country has gone for more than one year without a properly constituted Commission. Of major concern is that the process that was ongoing to recruit the IEBC commissioners was stopped on account of political debate and deal making.
We call upon His Excellency President William Ruto and all concerned stakeholders to set politics aside and facilitate completion of the process.
Further, we urge the Attorney General to seek an advisory from the Supreme Court of Kenya on the next course of action following the lapse of the constitutional deadline for review of boundaries.
5. Dignify NADCO Reforms by Making them People Driven
Following the eruption of crisis and violence after the 2022 General Elections, the leading coalitions set up the bipartisan National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) to restore peace. However, the report that the NADCO submitted to Parliament went beyond addressing the political dispute and recommended major changes in the Constitution and electoral laws.
On account of the impact that the proposed reforms will have on the lives of the citizens, we call upon Parliament to make the process people driven by:
One, publish the NADCO report in a way that is accessible to all Kenyans, and
Two, have the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee visit all counties to receive the feedback of the people on the proposed reforms
On our part, we have committed to use our structures and platforms to educate the people on the reforms proposed through the NADCO report and related Bills of Parliament.
6. Use Electricity Safely
The records held by Kenya Power Company indicate that more than 60 people have died in electricity related accidents so far this year. This is a rate higher as compared to the 130 who were reported to have died in year 2023. If this trend holds, more people could perish this year.
We now appeal to all Kenyans to exercise safety when using electricity, taking into consideration that most accidents arise from illegal connections, faulty wiring in houses, and operating beneath power lines. To not take unnecessary risks, and we strongly recommend the following:
One, only engage licensed electricians to do wiring in your houses;
Two, ensure that electricity supply is connected by Kenya Power and Lighting Company itself; and
Three, avoid putting any buildings or businesses underneath powerlines
On our part as NCCK, we will continue to use our platforms and structures to educate people to use electricity safely.
7. New Regional Leadership
This Regional Conference wishes to inform all that we have elected a new team of officials who will hold office for the term 2024 – 2027. These are:
Chairperson: Rev Dr Nicholas Nteere
Vice Chair: Rev James Kimathi
Hon Treasurer: Bishop Japhet Gikunda
Women Rep: Jocyline Kagendo
Youth Rep: Boniface Mwiti
PWD Rep: Pst Francis Lemore
Conclusion
We conclude by remind all of us that God created a good earth and we can have dignity and resilience if only we follow the will of God expressed in Genesis 2: 15
The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.
May God bless the NCCK Upper Eastern Region and the entire nation.
Rev Dr Nicholas Nteere
Regional Chairman, NCCK Upper Eastern Region
- Published in News
Focus on Dignifying Lives for Resilience – Coast Regional Conference
Focus on Dignifying Lives for Resilience
Press Statement
The 14th Regional Conference of the NCCK Coast Region has been held here at ACK St Thomas, Kilifi, on 2nd to 3rd May 2024, under the theme “Dignified Livelihoods, Resilient Communities (Galatians 6: 9)”. The Regional Conference is a key governance organ in NCCK that meets once every three years, and in Coast Region brings together delegates from Kilifi, Kwale, Lamu, Mombasa, Taita Taveta and Tana River counties. During this Regional Conference, the delegates were challenged by the word recorded in Matthew 8: 2 – 3
A man with leprosy came and knelt before him and said, “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean”. Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. “I am willing”, he said. “Be clean”.
1. Rescue and Dignify Flood Disaster Survivors
The delegates in this Regional Conference have received with great sadness the report that more than 200 Kenyans have so far lost their lives and more than a hundred thousand displaced by the ongoing flooding disaster. We continue to pray for the bereaved families for consolation and for all the survivors for quick recovery.
Further, we have put in place a strategy for our churches to provide relief to the affected families by donating clothes, food and other materials through their congregations. Financial donations can also be sent through the NCCK Paybill number 519900.
We call upon the national and county governments to intensify efforts to rescue those already affected, and to allocate resources for relocation of residents from high risk areas. We caution all leaders against using this disaster to steal public funds as has happened in the past. Let us have mercy on our suffering brothers and sisters and dignify them by using all available resources to support them.
On their part, we appeal to all our citizens to pay keen attention to announcements and guidelines from the government and meteorological department and take protective measures.
2. Exercise Caution on Reopening of Schools
Further to this, we commend His Excellency the President for postponing the opening of schools until the rains subside. We thus urge the Ministry of Education to prioritise safety of learners by facilitating a thorough assessment of all learning facilities similar to the ongoing review of dams. Let there be a comprehensive report on the state of schools to avoid unnecessary risks and to inform necessary repairs.
3. End the Indignity of Squatting
It is regrettable that more than 60% of the residents of our counties are squatters on their ancestral lands 60 years after independence. How long must we live in this indignity? How long must our people be consigned to perpetual poverty due to denial of access to the primary factor of production?
We demand that the government speedily completes the adjudication of the land in the coastal counties in a just and equitable manner. Let us dignify the citizens by enabling them to hold title deeds for the lands on which they live and farm.
It is important to always remember that the real and perceived injustices with regard to land ownership have been the primary driver of tension, violence and radicalization in this region.
4. Resolve the Health Crisis
We in this Regional Conference find it unbelievable that the strike by doctors and other medical workers has entered a eighth week with no solution in sight. We call upon the national and county governments to engage in meaningful dialogue with the medical workers to bring the strike to an end. Recognizing that the first duty of leaders and managers is to solve problems, we ask the responsibility holders to step aside if they are unable to resolve this crisis. The pain and suffering of Kenyans who are daily burying their loved ones ho die from treatable illnesses must be brought to an end.
5. Dignify Democracy by Reconstituting the IEBC
Kenya is a constitutional democracy, and establishment of government at all levels is done through elections. Further, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission is the only body mandated to manage elections in Kenya. It is therefore a gross injustice and indignity on all Kenyans for the country to not have a properly constituted IEBC for more than one year. This lapse has led to the current situation where the rights of the residents of Banissa constituency as well as Nyamaiwa, Kisa East, Lakezone, and Chewena Wards are unable to hold by-elections. In addition, Kenya is in a constitutional crisis after failing to adhere with the constitutional deadline for delimitation of boundaries.
We urge His Excellency President William Ruto and all concerned stakeholders to speedily conclude the process of recruiting IEBC Commissioners. This is a constitutional process that should not be limited to political discourse and deal making.
6. Make NADCO Reforms People Driven
Following the 2022 General Elections, the leading political coalitions established the bipartisan National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) to end the destructive mass action and massive police brutality. NADCO was therefore comprised of senior politicians from the Kenya Kwanza and Azimio La Umoja coalitions, which made it an elitist process. It is therefore a major concern for us that Parliament is pushing ahead with implementation of the NADCO report despite a majority of Kenyans not knowing its contents. In a survey done in this Conference, we found that more than 85% of the people do not support implementation of the NADCO Report.
We therefore call upon Parliament to publish the NADCO report in a way accessible to all Kenyans so that they understand what is being done on their behalf. Secondly, we call upon the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee to visit all the counties to receive feedback from the citizens, and then use that feedback to review the report and proposed legal and policy reforms.
On their part, we call upon all Kenyans to actively engage in the ongoing reforms process. We must not leave the shaping of our future in the hands of politicians alone.
7. Dignify the Youth for Resilient Communities
The biggest driver of social instability is the indignity of poverty. We call upon the governments in the counties in our region to thus prioritize dignified livelihood options for the youth to secure the future. Towards this, we strongly recommend:
One, allocation of budgets for training and skilling of youth on entrepreneurship
Two, reduction of taxes and levies especially for youth owned businesses
Three, consolidation of the licenses and certifications to make it easy to start and run businesses
On their part, we urge the youth in our counties to take initiative and seek opportunities to better their lives. Do remember that prosperity will not look for you, you have to work for it.
7. Use Electricity Safely
This Regional Conference has noted with concern that the number of electricity-related accidents is rising, with reports that 130 deaths were reported last year while 60 have been killed so far this year.
Considering that the majority of electricity-related accidents result from illegal connections, poor wiring in houses, and operating under power lines, we call upon all the residents of our counties and the entire country to take care of their lives. To progress this understanding, we in the NCCK have partnered with the Kenya Power and Lighting Company to use our platforms to sensitize community members to use electricity safely. We especially recommend the following to the residents in our counties:
One, only engage licensed electricians to do wiring in your houses;
Two, ensure that electricity supply is connected by Kenya Power and Lighting Company itself; and
Three, avoid putting any buildings or businesses underneath powerlines
8. New Regional Leadership
This Regional Conference wishes to inform all that we have elected a new team of officials who will hold office for the term 2024 – 2027. These are:
Chairperson: Bishop Dr Peter Mwero
Vice Chair: Rt Rev Reuben Katite
Hon Treasurer: Beatrice Ambale
Women Rep: Priscilla Moira
Youth Rep: Lt Dennis Mulandi
PWD Rep: Pst Geoffrey Wanyoike
Conclusion
In conclusion, recall the warning God has given us in Proverbs 14: 21
He who despises his neighbour sins, but blessed is he who is kind to the needy.
Let us all join hands to bring to dignify all Kenyans by resolving the current and long standing challenges and injustices, just as we pray in 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
May God bless the NCCK Coast Region and the entire nation now and always.
Bishop Dr Peter Mwero
Chairman, NCCK Coast Region
- Published in News
GIVE KENYANS PEOPLE DRIVEN REFORMS
GIVE KENYANS PEOPLE DRIVEN REFORMS
COMMUNIQUE OF THE 4TH NATIONAL DIALOGUE CONFERENCE
Woe to those who make unjust laws, to those who issue oppressive decrees, to deprive the poor of their rights and withhold justice from the oppressed of my people (Isaiah 10: 1 – 2)
Any man whom Allah has given the authority of ruling some people and he does not look after them in an honest manner, will never feel even the smell of Paradise (Hadith)
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, have convened the 4th National Dialogue Conference here at Ufungamano House over the last two days.
The goal of the 4th National Dialogue Conference was to review the report presented to Parliament by the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) as well as the attendant Parliamentary Bills. The delegates from across the country were inspired by the words of the National Anthem:
O God of all creation, Bless this our land and nation, Justice be our shield and defender; May we dwell in unity, Peace and Liberty, Plenty be found within our borders
This prayer is in tandem with the assertion in the Preamble of the Constitution of Kenya 2010 which states:
RECOGNIZING the aspiration of all Kenyans for a government based on the essential values of human rights, equality, freedom, democracy, social justice and the rule of law…
1. Mourning the Devastation of Floods
The delegates in this National Dialogue Conference are deeply saddened by the deaths of more than 200 Kenyans occasioned by the ongoing rains and floods. The lives of hundreds of thousands of Kenyans have been destroyed. We mourn with all the bereaved. We continue to pray for all the affected families for quick recovery. Our places of worship across the country are open at all times to house and support to all who have been displaced. We are also mobilizing worshippers in our congregations to collect relief materials to share with the affected families.
2. End the Doctors’ Strike
Also deeply saddening all Kenyans are the deaths and massive suffering arising from the ongoing strike by doctors and other medical workers. We call upon the national and county governments, as well as the medical workers, to engage in genuine and meaningful dialogue to bring the suffering of Kenyans to an end. It is painful for Kenyans to watch their loved ones die from easily treatable conditions.
We restate that the religious leaders are ready and willing to mediate in the dialogue process.
3. Urgently Constitute the IEBC
As provided for in the Constitution of Kenya, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is the only body mandated to manage elections. The Constitution does not anticipate a situation where the country is without a capacity to constitute its democratic organs. It is therefore a strong breach of the Constitution that Kenya has now gone for 16 months without a properly constituted Commission.
Already, there are two constituencies, Banissa and Lagdera, and four wards, Nyamaiwa, Kisa East, Lakezone, and Chewena, that are without Members of National Assembly and Members of County Assembly respectively. On its part, Kisii County is without a Deputy Governor since there is no Commission to gazette the new appointment. This is a breach of the constitutional rights of these Kenyan citizens. In addition, the country is in a state of a constitutional crisis following the breach of the deadline for delimitation of boundaries.
We call upon His Excellency President William Ruto and all concerned stakeholders to speedily conclude the recruitment of IEBC Commissioners. It would be prudent to separate this process from other political discourse due to the magnitude of the risk that the lack of an IEBC portends to the nation.
4. Make the Reform Process People Driven
In the wake of the political tussle for realignments and positioning in the post 2022 elections period, the country went through a period of destructive mass action and massive of lives due to police brutality. To end the strife, the leading political coalitions created a bipartisan team referred to as the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO). The NADCO thereafter had some sessions to receive memoranda from Kenyans, leading to the development of a report that recommends wide-ranging, far reaching, and heavily disruptive reforms.
By its nature, therefore, NADCO is an elitist process that did not address the issues of concern of the people of Kenya. While ostensibly set up to address the challenges surrounding the 2022 General Elections, the recommendations in the report by NADCO are bound to make the journey to the 2027 elections worse than the past cycles.
We thus strongly urge the Speakers of the National Assembly and the Senate to make the reform process put in motion by the NADCO people driven. This will be achieved by:
One, publish the NADCO report in a way accessible to all Kenyans so they understand what is being said about their future
Two, have the joint Justice and Legal Affairs Committee visit all the counties to receive feedback from the citizens, and then use that feedback to review the report and proposed legal and policy reforms
Three, ensure comprehensive nation-wide public engagement on the Bills of Parliament that are being tabled
5. Involve Kenyans in Constitution Review Discussions
The report by the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) has recommended 33 amendments to the Constitution of Kenya 2010. Comparatively, the Constitution of Kenya was amended 39 times in the period between 1963 and 2010. The proposed amendment of the Constitution, which has been formulated as the Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill 2023, is a major engagement that goes beyond the mandate of Parliamentarians alone.
Such a process requires a Constituent Assembly whose outcome is thereafter subjected to a referendum. We call upon Parliament to put in place the legal framework of this process to be people driven.
6. Call to Kenyans to Engage in the Reform Process
Different surveys have shown that less than 30 per cent of the citizens of Kenya have read or are familiar with the NADCO report or the Bills that are amending elections related laws.
We call upon all our fellow citizens to actively engage in the ongoing reforms process. Do not leave the shaping of your future in the hands of the politicians who are primarily driven by their selfish interests.
Take time to read the reports and Bills and attend public participation forums.
On our part, we have committed to use our platforms to educate Kenyans on the reform process.
7. Take the Two Thirds Gender Rule Seriously
Recognizably, the Constitution of Kenya 2010 enshrined the principle of inclusivity, and requires that no gender should occupy more than two thirds of positions in any elective or appointive organ. The persistent failure to implement this provision is not only a denial of the rights of women and men, but also a breach of the Constitution. It is worryingly notable that NADCO did not include the attainment of two thirds gender rule in the Bills they have published.
We call upon Parliament to fast track the implementation of the report of the Multi Sectoral Working Group. Let this matter be brought to its logical conclusion.
Further, we challenge Parliament to put in place a framework for attainment of the constitutional provisions safeguarding the inclusion of the youth and persons with disabilities in governance and decision making organs.
Conclusion
We conclude by calling upon Kenyans to arise and stand up for People Driven Reforms. We must resist elitist-driven reforms that only address the interests of the political elite. Let us always stand for justice, unity, democracy and liberty of all.
Let us continually commit to prayer we make through our National Anthem:
Amkeni ndugu zetu, Tufanye sote bidii, Nasi tujitoe kwa nguvu
Nchi yetu ya Kenya, Tunayoipenda, Tuwe Tayari Kuilinda
Signed on this 30th day of April 2024 at Ufungamano House, Nairobi
Rt Rev Simon Peter Kamomoe
Chairman, KCCB – CJPD
Rev Canon Chris Kinyanjui
General Secretary, NCCK
Abdullahi Salat
Secretary General, SUPKEM
- Published in News