Chaplains have been challenged to take a more active role in addressing Kenya’s deepening societal challenges, as the country grapples with economic strain, rising insecurity, and a crisis of values.
Speaking during the 15th Annual Chaplains Conference in Mombasa, the Principal Secretary, State Department for Cabinet Affairs, Dr. Idris Dokota, urged the Chaplains to take a leading role in steering the country toward moral recovery.
The religious leaders were encouraged to play a more significant role in value-based education and national healing. The PS stressed that church and state need to work together to foster a peaceful and morally grounded society.
“Chaplains, as spiritual leaders, are uniquely positioned to shape values and beliefs that can improve the attitudes, perceptions and character of our nation,” said Dr. Dokota.
The conference, organized by the National Association of Christian Chaplains (NACC), themed “Facing the Future with Confidence” brought together Chaplains from across the country serving in both public and private institutions.
Dr. Dokota emphasized that the country’s current challenges, ranging from youth unemployment and mental health issues, to corruption and weakened family structures, demand both technical solutions and moral clarity.
“Governance challenges, especially corruption, continue to derail our economic progress. But with the right mindset and moral guidance, we can change course,” he said, emphasizing the government’s efforts under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
However, he stressed that government action alone isn’t sufficient, noting the state cannot succeed without strategic partnerships, particularly with those offering psychosocial and spiritual support.
Chaplains currently serve in institutions such as the Military, Prisons, Hospitals, Universities, and the Police Service. Their presence, the PS noted, is vital in helping individuals in distress while upholding ethical standards in institutions increasingly threatened by moral decline.
Citing Chapter 10 of the Constitution, which focuses on leadership and integrity, Dr. Dokota reminded the clergy of their mandate to instill values such as discipline, patriotism, and respect, particularly among young people.
“As the family unit weakens, institutional support must grow stronger,” he said, also reminding Chaplains that they should be living examples, not only in word but also in practice.
By Sitati Reagan
