Archbishop Philip Anyolo (Standing) with Newly Installed Bishop of Wote Dioceses of Wote Rev. Simon Komomoe ( seated). Photo by Komu Musango. 
By Andrew Mbuva
Nairobi Archbishop Most Rev. Philip Anyolo has challenged young people across the country to reject violence, resist manipulation by politicians, and become responsible citizens committed to building a peaceful and united Kenya.
Speaking in Wote during the installation of Bishop Simon Peter Kamomoe as the new Bishop of the Wote Diocese, Archbishop Anyolo urged the youth to remain vigilant about the events unfolding around them and avoid being lured into criminal activities for short-term financial gain.
The Archbishop warned against the growing trend of recruiting young people into violent groups, saying such actions only destroy their future while bringing shame to the nation.
"Do not allow yourselves to be misused. Refuse to be bought and refuse to be drafted into groups that spread violence and destruction," he said.
He noted that the temporary payments offered to young people to engage in unlawful acts cannot compare to the long-term consequences, including damaged reputations, lost opportunities, and possible criminal prosecution.
Archbishop Anyolo particularly cautioned against embracing labels associated with criminal gangs, describing them as shameful titles that no young person should aspire to carry.
"It is not something to be proud of. It is a terrible title and one that no young person should treasure," he said.
The Archbishop further appealed to the youth to choose the path of integrity, urging them to become law-abiding men and women who love God, respect others, and contribute positively to society.
He also challenged political leaders to stop exploiting vulnerable young people for selfish political interests, saying those who incite violence do not have the welfare of the youth or the country at heart.
"We appeal to our young people not to allow themselves to be used, misused, and abused by unscrupulous leaders who do not mean well for them or for the country we all love," he said.
Archbishop Anyolo encouraged participants attending activities at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa to spend the week reflecting on the immense value and potential of young people, rather than allowing themselves to become instruments of violence and destruction.
"Our young people have enormous value. Let them reflect on the good they can do for society instead of the evil they may be forced to inflict on others," he added.
The Archbishop made the remarks during the installation ceremony of Bishop Simon Peter Kamomoe as the second Bishop of the Wote Diocese, succeeding Bishop Martin Kariuki, who retired on medical grounds after serving as the founding bishop of the diocese.
The ceremony attracted hundreds of faithful, clergy, government leaders, and invited guests from across the country, marking a significant milestone in the history of the Catholic Church in the Diocese of Wote.
