Chaplains Push for Funding and Formal Recognition Across Institutions

Chaplains serving in schools, hospitals, prisons and security institutions are pushing for government funding and formal recognition of their profession.

The call was made during the 16th annual national conference of the National Association of Christian Chaplains (NACC) at Milele Beach Hotel in Mombasa.

Conference Focus

The conference, held under the theme “Faithful Witness in a Digital and Polarized Society”, brought together chaplains from across Kenya.

George Wagoya Odhiambo, a member of the communication committee, said the gathering focused on professional development, digital ministry, trauma-informed care, and promoting national cohesion.

He noted that chaplains play a vital role in providing spiritual and psychosocial support in various institutions.

Key Demands

The association urged the government to:

• Recognize and institutionalize chaplaincy services across all sectors
• Provide a vote head in the Ministry of Education budget to support chaplaincy activities
• Implement the chaplaincy framework and absorb chaplains for better service delivery
• Ensure timely communication on chaplaincy matters at county and national levels

They also called on faith-based organizations and educational institutions to integrate chaplaincy into holistic learner development, especially under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).

Interfaith Cooperation

Dr. Sheikh Hassan Kinyomari, who represented Muslim chaplains, emphasized collaboration between Christian and Muslim chaplains. He stressed that chaplains must respect students’ religious rights and avoid coercion.

He highlighted the need for a chaplaincy manual to guide professionals working in multi-faith environments.

Focus on Youth and Society

Speakers warned against moral decline, drug abuse, and misuse of digital platforms. They urged chaplains to promote peace, national cohesion, and ethical values ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The association described chaplaincy as essential for character formation, peacebuilding, and supporting families and communities.