Nairobi: The Government of Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting and protecting family values through comprehensive policies, including the National Policy on Family Promotion and Protection (2023). The government’s initiatives were highlighted by the Principal Secretary (PS) for Social Protection and Senior Citizen Affairs, Mr. Joseph Motari, in a speech during the official opening of the 2nd Pan-African Conference on Family Values (PACFV) in Nairobi on Monday.
According to Kenya News Agency, Motari emphasized the importance of families as the foundation of society and reiterated the government’s dedication to supporting them. He mentioned the active implementation of the Inua Jamii Cash Transfer Programme, which benefits over 1.7 million vulnerable Kenyans, including older persons, orphans, and persons with disabilities. Additionally, he noted the government’s efforts to pass the Older Persons Bill to safeguard the rights and dignity of senior citizens.
Africa Christian Professionals Forum (ACPF) Chairperson, Ann Mbugua, commended the government’s initiatives and underscored the role of faith in promoting family values. Mrs. Mbugua stated, “Family is the bedrock of society, and safeguarding it is a shared responsibility. This conference serves as a platform to unite, reflect, and reinforce our commitment to preserving these values.”
The Pan-African Conference on Family Values, organized by ACPF, has gathered government officials, faith leaders, professionals, and delegates from across Africa and beyond to discuss pressing issues affecting families. The event features presentations, panel discussions, and a Family Symposium focused on promoting and protecting family values.
Charles Kanjama, ACPF Vice Chair and the Kenya Christian Professionals Forum (KCPF) Chair, highlighted the significance of religious freedom in maintaining a values-based society. He remarked, “Religious freedom is a pillar of a healthy society, and we must safeguard it alongside our commitment to life and family. ACPF and KCPF stand united in this mission.”
The conference will also commemorate the International Day of Families, providing a platform for participants to exchange experiences and strategies for safeguarding family values in their respective countries. Discussions are expected to cover topics such as the sanctity of life, religious freedoms, protection of traditional family structures, and solutions to emerging issues, including youth exploitation, family breakdown, and foreign cultural influences.