Ruto delivers motorbikes he promised Rift bishops

West Pokot Governor Simon Kachapin has flagged off 120 motorbikes to be used by bishops and pastors serving in the border counties of West Pokot, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet and Turkana, to enhance pastoral work by improving mobility in the vast and rugged regions.

Speaking during the ceremony held at the governor’s residence, Kachapin said the motorbikes will help bishops and church leaders reach remote communities more easily, especially in areas with poor roads.

The donation followed a request made to President William Ruto during the New Year thanksgiving service held at Chesombur, where bishops from the four border counties appealed for support to enhance their outreach and service delivery.

“This support will go a long way in strengthening the work of the church, particularly in border areas that face challenges of insecurity, poor terrain and limited transport options,” Kachapin said.

He added that faith-based organisations play a crucial role in promoting peace, unity, and development, especially in regions prone to inter-community conflicts.

Governor Kachapin also commended the pastors for giving people hope, noting that without the church’s guidance and moral leadership, crime levels in the region would be far more widespread.

“I want to commend our pastors and bishops for standing with the people and giving them hope. Without the church, crime would be rampant in our communities,” he said.

He further urged the pastors to remain committed to promoting peace and convening dialogue forums, noting that such efforts continue to yield positive and meaningful progress within the communities.

“I also urge our pastors not to tire in promoting peace and convening dialogue meetings, because these efforts yield positive and meaningful progress in our communities,” he added.

Bishop David Kaseton from West Pokot  thanked the President for fulfilling their request, describing him as a leader of both action and words who honours his commitments.

“We sincerely thank the President for honouring our request. He is truly a man of action and not just words,” he said.

The chairman of the Elgeyo Marakwet County Pastors’ Association Haron Kwambai said the motorbikes will boost their work by enabling them to travel to different areas to preach peace among communities.

“These motorbikes will greatly facilitate our work by enabling us to move from one place to another as we preach peace among our people,” said Kwambai.

The initiative is expected to improve pastoral visits, peace-building efforts and social development activities in the four counties.