President William Ruto on Monday hosted more than 5,000 members of the Friends Church (Quakers) at State House, Nairobi, in what has been described as the largest and first-ever gathering of the Quaker community at the seat of government.
The landmark event brought together Quaker faithful from across the country for a national engagement aimed at strengthening collaboration between the government and faith-based organizations in promoting national unity, ethical leadership and sustainable development.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, a lifelong member of the Friends Church, hailed the gathering as a historic milestone for the church, which has been serving Kenya since 1902 through its contributions to education, healthcare, peacebuilding and community development.
Mudavadi said the event underscored the important role faith communities continue to play in shaping the country’s moral values and fostering national cohesion.
“It was deeply fulfilling to help organise this landmark engagement, see it come to fruition, and stand alongside thousands of fellow believers. It was a powerful reminder of the role faith communities continue to play in shaping our values, strengthening national cohesion and inspiring hope,” he said.
He noted that the Quaker testimonies of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality and stewardship have continued to influence his leadership and public service throughout his career.
According to Mudavadi, these principles provide a strong foundation for ethical governance by encouraging truth, humility, service and peaceful dialogue in addressing national challenges.
President Ruto emphasized the importance of partnerships between the government, religious institutions and citizens in advancing Kenya’s development agenda and strengthening social cohesion.
Mudavadi said such collaborations are essential in promoting responsible leadership, fostering unity among Kenyans and creating sustainable solutions that improve the lives of citizens.
He thanked the Friends Church Kenya for its continued prayers for the nation and its longstanding commitment to peace, education and community service.
The Friends Church, commonly known as the Quakers, has maintained a significant presence in Kenya for more than a century, operating schools, hospitals and humanitarian programmes while advocating for peace, justice and equality.
The State House gathering marked a significant recognition of the church’s historical contribution to Kenya’s social and spiritual development and reinforced the government’s commitment to engaging religious organizations as key partners in nation-building.