Imams Welcome Drought Relief, Call for Moral Leadership in Vision 2060

ELDORET, Kenya — Religious leaders under the Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya (CIPK) in the North Rift have welcomed the government’s pledge to support farmers affected by the prolonged drought, while urging the national leadership to place integrity and moral values at the heart of the country’s proposed Vision 2060 development agenda.

Speaking on behalf of the council, North Rift CIPK Chairman Sheikh Abubakar Dini thanked God for the recent rains that have brought relief to many parts of the region after months of severe drought. He said the rainfall had restored hope to farmers and pastoralists who had suffered heavy losses due to the harsh weather conditions.

“We first thank Almighty God for blessing the country with rain after a long period of drought. Many families had reached a difficult point, and the rains have renewed hope,” said Sheikh Dini.

He also expressed appreciation to President William Ruto for acknowledging the plight of residents in the North Rift and committing the government to provide assistance to affected farmers. According to Sheikh Dini, the government’s willingness to respond to concerns raised by religious leaders demonstrates the importance of dialogue between citizens and the state.

“There are times when leaders deserve appreciation. We had appealed for support for drought-hit communities, and the President listened to our concerns. We now urge the government to fast-track the distribution of the promised relief before more families lose their livelihoods or fall into despair,” he said.

The religious leader noted that many farmers had lost crops and livestock during the prolonged dry spell, making urgent intervention necessary to prevent further suffering.

Sheikh Dini also weighed in on the government’s proposed Vision 2060 development blueprint, urging President Ruto to ensure that moral values become one of its guiding principles.

He argued that sustainable national development cannot be achieved through economic investments alone but must also be anchored on honesty, accountability and respect for the rule of law.

“The success of Vision 2060 will depend not only on infrastructure and economic growth but also on the moral character of the nation. Kenya needs leaders and citizens who uphold integrity,” he said.

The CIPK chairman called on the government to include religious leaders in the committee that will oversee the implementation of the long-term development strategy, saying faith leaders play a critical role in shaping ethical behaviour within society.

According to Sheikh Dini, promoting strong moral values would help curb corruption, improve accountability in public institutions and ensure that government relief supplies and public resources reach the intended beneficiaries.

“When people in public office are guided by integrity, institutions function better and government programmes serve citizens effectively. Good morals are essential for building a prosperous nation,” he added.

On matters of national cohesion, Sheikh Dini welcomed recent action taken by authorities against leaders accused of making inflammatory remarks, saying efforts to combat hate speech should continue.

However, he urged law enforcement agencies to apply the law fairly without political bias.

“We commend the agencies responsible for addressing incitement for taking action. However, justice must be applied equally. Anyone who makes inflammatory, abusive or tribal remarks should face the law regardless of political affiliation or status,” he said.

 Dialogue Preferred Over Confrontation

The CIPK chairman further appealed for dialogue whenever disputes arise, especially during periods of political tension. He proposed the formation of an independent council comprising respected elders and religious leaders to mediate national disagreements before they escalate.

According to Sheikh Dini, such a team should remain non-partisan and focus solely on promoting peace, reconciliation and national cohesion.

“We believe dialogue is always better than insults, destruction or confrontation. Any mediation team established should remain independent and free from political influence so that it can serve all Kenyans fairly,” he said.

The council maintained that unity, justice, moral leadership and timely government intervention remain essential ingredients for achieving Kenya’s long-term development aspirations and ensuring that no community is left behind during times of crisis.