Machakos ACK Bishop Patrick Munuve Speaking during New Year prayers at Machakos. Photo by Andrew Mbuva. 
By Andrew Mbuva.
Machakos ACK Bishop Patrick Munuve has called on leaders and citizens alike to embrace values that promote peace, resilience, and unity as the country ushers in the New Year, urging Kenyans to reject divisions and violence for the sake of national cohesion and progress.
Speaking during New Year prayers, Bishop Munuve emphasized the importance need for leaders to remain vigilant and uphold justice, integrity, and mutual respect, noting that these principles are the foundation of a strong and stable nation. He reminded leaders that authority is a sacred trust from God and that they are merely stewards called to serve the people with humility, wisdom, and compassion.
“Leadership is a sacred responsibility. Those entrusted with authority must remember that they lead to serve, not to divide, and must always act in love, unity, and peace,” Munuve said.
The bishop further called on Kenyans to take time to reflect, repent where necessary, forgive one another, and renew their faith as the country steps into the New Year. He encouraged citizens to commit themselves to peace and national renewal, stressing that Kenya’s future depends on collective responsibility and moral leadership.
Across Machakos County, residents welcomed the New Year in diverse ways, with many opting to usher it in through prayer services in churches, while others gathered in clubs and restaurants for celebrations.
At the Kangundo Redeemed World Impact Centre in Kangundo Sub-county, hundreds of worshippers gathered to welcome the New Year in prayer. The service was led by Bishop Daniel Matheka, whose message, themed “Just One Step Above,” encouraged believers to rise above past challenges and walk into the New Year with faith and determination.
Several congregants shared their reflections and hopes for the year ahead. Dominic Kyalo expressed gratitude for reaching the New Year and called on Kenyans to embrace tolerance and unity. He also urged politicians to halt calls for a referendum, terming the push ill-timed amid unresolved national issues, including concerns raised during the Gen Z-led protests.
“There are many challenges facing the country that need attention. Pushing for a referendum now is unnecessary. What Kenyans need is unity, brotherhood, and peace,” Kyalo said.
Another worshipper, George Kanyette, described the past year as one marked by significant challenges and moments of hope, expressing optimism that the New Year would bring solutions through prayer and collective effort.
Josphat Mumo echoed similar sentiments, describing the New Year as a fresh chapter that calls for forgiveness, reconciliation, and letting go of past grievances to make room for blessings.
The faithful spoke during and after the New Year service, united in prayer and hope that the coming year would usher in peace, healing, and renewed national purpose for Machakos County and the country at large.
