The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) General Secretary Reverend Canon Peter Karanja has called on Kenyans to consider 2015, as “The Year of Great Potential.” While enumerating NCCK’s development and advocacy plans during the new year, Canon Karanja also challenged Council staff to build a momentum that will sustain the institution’s agenda of transforming lives in spite of the fluid and complex nature of Kenya’s political landscape.
He was speaking on the first day of official duty at NCCK, during the cum morning devotion with staff, after the Christmas and New Year festivities. “We must roll up our sleeves and build a momentum that will sustain us through the political rhetoric expected ahead of the 2017 general elections. It is exciting to note that our work is appreciated and many consider it a pragmatic approach to issues”, he pointed out.
.Canon Karanja reminded Kenyans to be thankful to God for the peace that prevailed in the country throughout the festivities and reiterated that security must be guaranteed. “The government must secure Kenyans and that is not negotiable. God gave us safety because we prayed.”
He welcomed staff back to the office remarking, “I am glad to see all of you back at work in one peace looking bright and wrapped up well, that cannot be taken for granted”. Present were outgoing deputy General Secretary Mr Oliver Kisaka, Programmes Director Susie Ibutu, senior managers among other staff. The staff shared their experiences during the long holiday. Micah Makongo, an accountant caused laughter when he narrated how his holiday was in the villages.” I traveled to my village in Taita and enjoyed being with my family but the sun was too hot! just look at my bald, its cracked everywhere in fact I am healing now,” he remarked. Sentiments on his experience in the villages were shared by Faith Kivuva, an intern in the human resource department, who hoped for better tidings in 2015. For Leonard Mukuria, a driver with the Council, 2015 is the year of restoration and stability. ” I am optimistic that this is the year of restoration in our security system, what the enemy has stolen from us, name it. I expect my life to change,” he pointed out.
Meanwhile the NCCK General Secretary has condoled with the former Prime Minister and CORD leader,Hon RailaOdinga, following the sudden demise of his first born son Fidel Odinga. In his message of condolence to Raila and his family, Canon Karanja observed that the Council recognized the pain the family was going through. “It is difficult and painful to lose a child abruptly. We at the Council stand with Hon Raila’s family during this difficult time and pray that God will give them strength to overcome the grief”, he said.
