CONDOLENCE MESSAGE ON PASSING ON OF HIS EXCELLENCY DANIEL TOROITICH ARAP MOI, C.G.H., SECOND PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF KENYA
The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) joins Kenyans, and indeed the world, in mourning the passing on of His Excellency Daniel Toroitich Arap Moi C.G.H., the second President of the Republic of Kenya. We thank God for His Excellency’s long life, in which he dedicated 55 years to public service.
The Council remembers Mzee Moi as a head-teacher at Kabarak Intermediate School. Moi’s calm life as a teacher was interrupted by the resignation of John Ole Tameno, who was the Rift Valley’s representative in the colonial parliament, the Legislative Council (Legco). He took up the new challenge on October 18, 1955 as one of the four African members of Legco. One of the most memorable motion in the Legco was demanding that African teachers be allowed to form their association and as a result Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) was formed in 1957 and to date, it soldiers on.
The NCCK remembers President Moi as a devout Christian who faithfully expressed his faith. We recall that at the end of his term in office he asked for forgiveness from all he had offended while pronouncing forgiveness for all who had wronged him. He would always say that he had found peace in loving God and humanity.
President Moi facilitated a peaceful transition and handover of power when his term ended, which further entrenched the practice of democracy in the country. This was an act of a true statesman coming after years in which the NCCK pushed President Moi’s government to adopt term limits for the Presidency.
NCCK remembers President Moi as an environmental conservationist who popularized the slogan “mmonyoko wa udogo” through building of gabions and planting of trees. He also popularized the slogan “you cut one tree and plant two” for his love for the environment. At a time when the world is faced with climate change, his contribution in increasing forest cover remains a great example to emulate.
During his Presidency, he raised the literacy rate in Kenya by reaps and bounds, introduced the 8-4-4 System and the “Maziwa ya Nyayo” Schools Feeding Programme. He expanded the capacity of primary, secondary and higher education in Kenya. His love for education cannot be belabored.
When the NCCK and other actors clamored for Multiparty Democracy, he lead the nation in repealing the infamous section 2A of the Constitution of Kenya allowing competitive politics.
During his presidency, Kenya remained stable at a time when most other neighboring countries were embroiled in turmoil. He lead several initiatives to restore peace and stability in several countries in Africa. His personal efforts contributed immensely to the revival of the East Africa Community.
A Teacher, Leader, devout Christian, Farmer, Statesman and Icon, the Retired President Moi lived a full life and served many generations.
NCCK Prays that his family will find comfort in the Almighty God during this period of mourning and beyond.
Signed on this 4th day of February 2020 at Jumuia Place, Nairobi.
Rev Canon Chris Kinyanjui
General Secretary
