Kenya President Uhuru Kenyatta and First Lady Margaret Kenyatta at St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Nyali in 2018. [Photo|File/PSCU]
Following the global outbreak of the coronavirus, the World Health Organisation in March urged countries to identify ‘essential services’ that will be prioritized in their efforts to maintain continuity of service delivery – most especially during the period of partial or total lock-down.
In Kenya, only 11 industries including Network Infrastructure, Food and Agriculture, Retail and consumer goods suppliers, Medical and Health, IT Systems and Telecommunications among others were announced as essential, and consequently authorized to continue to operate during the period of the partial lockdown while adhering to the guidelines issued by government.
The list did not include Churches. In fact, a notice was issued announcing the temporary suspension of public prayer meetings after coronavirus cases in the country surged past 15.
Now, they are calling for inclusion.
Citizen TV reported on 3rd April that Church leaders in Makueni County, Kenya want to be listed as providers of essential services in the fight against coronavirus.
The broadcaster says the clergymen accused the government of sidelining them in major decisions which has reportedly put them at the center of criticism.
“We feel that the best way to fight the unseen enemy is through involving the church where there is God’s spiritual powers and subsequently through the medical professionals,” Rev. Nicholas Kyule, the Makueni clergy spokesperson was quoted as saying.
The church leaders from various denominations reportedly criticized the government for “only investing in science and turning a blind eye on faith.”
“The church is the best place for hope and resilience. Indeed a safe haven to the downtrodden and stricken by any calamity,” Rev. Kyule added.
“We are ready to even have church services outside the churches at open fields. Increasing the number of church services and having fewer members per session especially on those who play key roles in the church,” he added.
Rev. Nicholas Kyule urged that “Pastors need letters of exemption during the curfew hours so that none is arrested while attending prayers.”
As of 3rd April, Kenya’s Covid-19 cases stood to 122, with the death of a six-year-old.
