The Apostolic Nuncio to Kenya, Hubertus Van Megen, has implored Kenyans to introspect and respond courageously to the alarming rise in abductions targeting the nation’s youth.
Speaking at the launch of the Jubilee Year of Prayer at Holy Family Basilica in Nairobi, the Nuncio highlighted the devastating effects of these abductions, framing them as emblematic of a broader societal decline.
“We people of God, we Kenyans, need to be upset with things that are wrong and to find the courage to change them,” Van Megen stated, drawing on the teachings of Saint Augustine.
Amid a backdrop of pervasive darkness—including wars, poverty, and rampant corruption—the Nuncio urged Christians to rekindle hope.
“We are called to recover lost hope,” he asserted, emphasizing that despite the bleak circumstances, there is a pressing need to sow seeds of hope. He urged the faithful to extend their support to the brokenhearted, the sick, the imprisoned, and the impoverished, framing it as a collective moral responsibility.
As reports of abductions proliferate, anger and frustration have gripped the nation. Recently, President William Ruto reassured the public that his administration will take decisive action to combat this wave of abductions. During a church event in Bomet, he acknowledged the troubling trend and underscored the critical role of mentorship and guidance in steering young people away from destructive behaviors.
“We must mentor, guide, and pray for our children because they are our next generation,” Ruto emphasized, highlighting the collaborative effort needed from parents, the church, and political leaders to navigate this crisis.
Pressure is mounting on the government, with five individuals reported missing, including popular satirist Kibet Bull, alongside four others who disappeared from various neighborhoods in Embu, Nairobi, and Kajiado. As of Friday, their whereabouts remain a mystery, amplifying public demand for accountability and action from security agencies.
The Apostolic Nuncio’s message serves as a rallying cry for Kenyans to unite against the growing tide of fear and despair. “Our task is to become messengers of hope, angels, and shepherds who bring light into the darkest corners of life,” Van Megen concluded, leaving a resonant call for action in the hearts of many. As the nation grapples with these pressing challenges, the need for courage and collective action has never been more critical.
