Safari Park Hotel Nairobi has a busy schedule today as they host the President(s), Deputy President, Speakers of both Houses and Members of Parliament among other government dignitaries for the annual National Prayer Breakfast. This comes at a time when there is so much tension and anxiety in the country with different government sides not seeing eye to eye.
The “Hope” theme seeks to console Kenyans who are going through difficult economic times. The harsh weather conditions lately also ravaged many lives and livelihoods. This year, the Senate is the official host of the 21st National Prayer Breakfast. The event day and program were announced a month ago by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetangula.
Hon. Kingi, the Senate speaker, gave the opening remarks. Kingi said the event symbolizes how the legislators are united in serving the people, as well as their need for God’s help in service to the people.
“We must use every opportunity to rally our people to live in harmony, remain law-abiding and dedicated to nation-building. That, too, is our calling as elected leaders,” Hon. Kingi said.
South Mugirango MP, Sylvanus Osoro, lit the atmosphere at the 21st National Prayer Breakfast. Osoro led the Bunge choir in singing uplifting melodies and choruses. President William Ruto and his Deputy Rigathi Gachagua could not hide their joy as they joined in the dance. Other guests joined in the merry.
DP Gachagua Congratulates President Ruto
DP Rigathi Gachagua congratulated the President on his state visit to the United States of America. He hailed Ruto’s performance, adding that Kenyans were proud and keenly following the diplomatic trip. The Deputy added that the President’s negotiations put Kenya at a vantage point on the world map. On a lighter note, Gachagua complimented Ruto’s speech and flawless English.
President Ruto in his speech seemed to avoid politics. He quoted Proverbs 29:18.
“Where there is no vision, the people perish: But he that keepeth the law, happy he is – KJV“.
The President reminded the leaders that the vision is what keeps a country together and is the fruit of hope. He also talked about Hebrew Chapter 11 and Isaiah.
“We are told in Hebrews 11 that faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of things we do not see. Similarly, the words of Isaiah that those who hope in the Lord he will renew their strength, that they will run and not grow weary, walk and not faint. This rings so true when we reflect on our journey.”
As a father figure of the nation, he promised to stand tall help build bridges, and ensure all leaders work together for the greater good of this country. The head of state said they have a target of ensuring they create more jobs for the youth through the digital economy. He challenged the leaders to double their efforts to realize these goals for a prosperous nation.
Former Ethiopian PM Tamrat Layne is expected to deliver a keynote address. Those in attendance which include senior government officials, Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, CSs, ambassadors, and other dignitaries.
Atheist President in Kenya Attends The National Prayer Breakfast 2024
Among the event attendees, was Harrison Mumia, the president of Atheist in Kenya. Mumia had earlier announced that he would attend the prayer breakfast and made sure to keep his word. His presence sparked reactions with some questioning his stand on religion. According to him, he received an official invitation from the parliament to attend the event.
“The invitation extended by parliament for me to attend the national prayer breakfast is a significant milestone in Kenya’s journey towards greater religious freedom and interfaith cooperation,” reads part of the statement shared on his Facebook Page.
In his defense, however, he says that he is still an atheist and nothing has changed.
“Yes, I attended the National Prayer Breakfast. I am however still an atheist. Nothing has changed. Please!” he wrote
The annual event accords leaders an opportunity to fellowship God together, share meals, and deliberate on matters nation building. Kenya’s first “National Prayer Breakfast” was hosted in May 2003, shortly after late President Kibaki was sworn to power.
