By Neville Oduor
On May 28, 2025, the 22nd annual Kenya National Prayer Breakfast (KNPB), a significant event aimed at fostering unity, reconciliation and spiritual reflection among the nation’s leaders, was hosted at the Safari Park Hotel along Thika Road in Nairobi.
Starting at 7:00 AM, the gathering, themed “Rise and Rebuild,” brought together over 2,000 leaders, including top government officials, religious figures, and diplomats, to pray for Kenya’s future amidst ongoing national challenges.
The main purpose of the event was to unite leaders across political, ethnic, and religious divides, encouraging ethical leadership and collective responsibility in addressing issues like economic recovery, governance, and social cohesion.
Organized under the auspices of the National Assembly and Senate, the KNPB has become a vital platform for reflection since its inception in 2003, with this year’s theme emphasizing resilience and forward-looking leadership.
President William Ruto, who led the event, underscored the importance of faith in governance, stating, “We must rise and rebuild our nation with integrity and vision, guided by our shared faith and commitment to serve.”
His remarks set the tone for the morning, focusing on the need for leaders to prioritize accountability.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki echoed this sentiment, adding, “This is a moment for us to reflect on our duty to the people, ensuring that our actions align with the values we profess today.”
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula highlighted the event’s role in fostering dialogue, saying, “The National Prayer Breakfast is a reminder that leadership is a sacred trust, we must lead with humility and purpose.”
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi also spoke, emphasizing unity, “Let us rebuild Kenya together, transcending our differences for the greater good.”
The event featured prayers, scripture readings from multiple faiths, and a keynote address by former NFL player Rickey Allen Bolden, whose story of resilience inspired attendees.
Despite some public criticism regarding the event’s cost, the KNPB underscored a collective resolve to address Kenya’s challenges through faith and unity.
In attendance were prominent figures, including Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Chief Justice Martha Koome, Majority Leader of the National Assembly Kimani Ichung’wah, and religious leaders such as Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit of the Anglican Church of Kenya and Bishop Mark Kariuki of the Deliverance Church. International guests, including a delegation from the U.S. National Prayer Breakfast, also participated, highlighting global solidarity.