NAIROBI –Under the soft morning light and the calm of Safari Park Hotel’s lawns, Kenya’s top leaders bowed their heads in prayer. The country’s 22nd National Prayer Breakfast began on Wednesday, drawing together a broad cast of political and religious figures seeking unity at a time of growing national tension.
President William Ruto arrived shortly after 8 a.m., accompanied by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki. National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, and several Cabinet Secretaries followed close behind.
This year’s theme, “Rise and Rebuild,” was printed on white banners flanking the entrance. Inside, pastors from different denominations led interfaith prayers, echoing calls for reconciliation and responsibility.
“We must rise above division,” said Rev. David Oginde, who opened the event with a prayer for healing and peace. “Kenya cannot rebuild without humility and unity.”
Held annually since 2003, the breakfast is hosted by Parliament and is meant to be above politics. It gathers leaders from all sides of the political aisle—government and opposition alike as well as clergy and civil society. This year, organizers leaned heavily into the idea of rebuilding trust, both within the government and with the public.
In a short speech, President Ruto urged leaders to act with conscience. “Power is not a privilege for personal gain,” he said. “It is a calling to serve with honesty and compassion.”
His remarks come against the backdrop of public discontent over rising living costs and political tensions that have simmered since last year’s contentious finance debates. Opposition leaders, some of whom were absent from the event, have accused the government of sidelining dissenting voices and failing to uphold promises of economic relief.
Still, those in attendance projected a message of solidarity.
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi said the breakfast remained “one of the few places where we come not as rivals, but as Kenyans.” He added: “It’s a reminder that, before politics, we owe something greater to the people and to God.”
The event, broadcast live on national television, also featured scripture readings, music, and moments of silence for victims of recent national tragedies, including floods and road accidents.
Critics have questioned the relevance of the breakfast in an era of polarized politics. But for many, it remains a powerful symbol a pause from the headlines, and a rare moment when the country’s leaders sit at the same table, not for debate, but for prayer.
The message from Safari Park this year was clear: Kenya’s future depends not only on policy, but on humility, reflection, and shared purpose. Whether that spirit carries beyond the hotel’s manicured gardens and into the corridors of power remains to be seen.
