Churches in Kisumu and Kericho counties are stepping up for climate action. They’re using their influence to promote sustainable farming and protect the environment.
At a recent event at the Free Pentecostal Fellowship in Kenya (FPFK) Church in Katito, Grace Muga, a Resilience Programme Officer, encouraged clergy to weave climate awareness into their messages. She emphasized the power of faith leaders. “They can reach many people from the pulpit and help create real change,” she said.
The resilience program aims to help farming communities face climate challenges. Grace highlighted that local farmers are increasingly at risk due to extreme weather and harmful practices like deforestation and overusing fertilizers.
Clergy from various denominations, including FPFK, Anglican, African Gospel Church, Catholic Church, and Voice of Salvation Church, participated in the training and committed to implementing what they learned.
Reverend Kepher Otieno Obuya shared his concerns about current farming methods. “Unsustainable practices have hurt our productivity. We understand that harmful chemicals degrade our soil and reduce yields. As faith leaders, we will educate our congregations about sustainable farming and the importance of planting trees,” he stated.
Reverend Mary Atieno from the African Gospel Church stressed the church’s responsibility. “We can’t stay silent while livelihoods suffer. We must advocate for caring for creation as part of our faith,” she asserted.
Grace Muga drew a biblical connection, urging the clergy to embrace their role in environmental stewardship. “Just as we are called to care for the Garden of Eden, we must also protect our environment today,” she noted.
This initiative shows a growing awareness that faith institutions can significantly impact community mobilization for climate resilience. According to recent studies, communities engaged by local faith leaders are more likely to adopt sustainable practices.
In today’s world, where climate change affects every aspect of life, the partnership between faith and environmental action can lead to meaningful progress. Faith leaders can inspire congregations to prioritize sustainability and stewardship, fostering a more resilient future for all.
For more information about community-driven climate initiatives, you can visit the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
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Kisumu,Radio 47
