Under the gentle light of a gathering rooted in care and responsibility, the Catholic Diocese of Kitale, through its Child Protection Department led by Mrs. Rose Obonyo, convened a day of reflection and formation at the Goseta Diocesan Centre. Religious men and women of the Diocese came together in a shared commitment: to better safeguard the dignity and well-being of children and vulnerable persons entrusted to their pastoral care.
The forum unfolded as more than a workshop—it was a quiet yet resolute renewal of the Church’s promise to protect the least among us. Through thoughtful dialogue and attentive listening, participants explored the moral, pastoral, legal, and canonical responsibilities that shape their mission in today’s world.
Guiding the sessions was Rev. Fr. Bernard Malasi of the Catholic Diocese of Malindi, whose depth of knowledge offered both clarity and inspiration. Drawing from Canon Law and the wider teaching of the Church, he gently led participants through the structures and spirit of safeguarding, emphasizing that every child must be welcomed into spaces of safety, respect, and nurture. His reflections highlighted vigilance, accountability, and pastoral sensitivity as essential virtues for those entrusted with care.
In a broader horizon, Fr. Malasi introduced the universal safeguarding framework proposed by the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors, inviting participants to see their local efforts as part of a global commitment within the Church. He spoke candidly about the dangers of silence, negligence, and procedural missteps, reminding all present that safeguarding is not only a duty of law but a calling rooted in the Gospel itself.
The day’s reflections were further enriched by the presence of judicial officers from the Kitale Law Courts. Mrs. Janet Njalale offered a clear and compassionate overview of the Children Act, illuminating the legal protections afforded to minors. Alongside her, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions brought practical insight into the Penal Code and the processes that guide the reporting and prosecution of abuse cases. Their contributions bridged the path between pastoral care and civic responsibility, underscoring the importance of timely reporting, proper documentation, and collaboration with lawful authorities.
Together, these voices wove a shared understanding: that safeguarding is both a sacred trust and a public duty.
The gathering was graced by the presence of Bishop Henry Juma Odonya, who expressed heartfelt appreciation for the initiative. He commended Mrs. Obonyo’s leadership and affirmed the importance of such formation in strengthening the Church’s mission today. With gratitude, he also acknowledged the contributions of Fr. Malasi and the judicial officers, noting that collaboration between the Church and legal institutions is essential in nurturing safer communities.
In the stillness of that day, beneath shared purpose and pastoral care, the Diocese renewed its resolve: to walk faithfully alongside the young and vulnerable, guarding their dignity, and ensuring that the Church remains a place of refuge, trust, and hope.
