Missions

Kenya’s churches driving peaceful resolution to crisis

Church leaders are working alongside the Kofi Annan peace talks to play a leading mediation role at the centre of the current crisis in Kenya, according to Christian relief agency Tearfund.

“Although the situation is bad and Kenya is in shock that this could happen to them, in contrast they are also demonstrating their calibre as a nation,” she said. “Many churches and congregations have voluntarily provided items at their cost, but those that run the camps do not have more than one day’s supply at a time. In Kisumu I heard that members of an Asian community had come to the camp asking what medicines were needed. They returned bringing a full free supply - and repeated this at different locations.”

Tearfund is helping this situation by funding relief so that the smaller less supported IDP camps, hosted by churches, can plan for the coming weeks providing respite for families that have hosted internally displaced people.

Many individuals and families have been deeply traumatised by the violence. Those who have reached the camps, escaping horrific injuries themselves, have witnessed atrocities and many have also had their homes destroyed or looted.

Tearfund is funding trauma counselling for displaced people as well as providing this support for its Kenyan staff affected. Tearfund partners have responded by joining with other NGOs and churches by targeting the most vulnerable and marginalised groups that are camping in isolated centres and police stations.

Tearfund is encouraging Christians and UK churches to pray:
• For an end to the ethnic violence and killing between the Luo, Kikuyu and the Kalenjins.
• Against revenge attacks by the communities most affected. The most hit areas are Naivasha, Nakuru, Kericho, Transmara, Mt Elgon, Cherangani, Saboti in Trans Nzoia (Rift Valley province) and Kisumu, Kisii and Nairobi.
• That the Kofi Annan mediation team is given a chance by the two protagonist groups.
• For diplomatic pressure to help secure a peaceful end to the political impasse with an acceptable outcome for all Kenyans.
• For the safety and security of leaders involved in peaceful negotiation, churches and relief agency staff.

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