AMECEA NEWS

Fr. Augustine Kharmuti,
Don Bosco Technical Institute
Project Coordinator

Holy Cross Catholic Parish in Kakuma is the only Church in the entire World that operates right inside a refugee camp. The Parish managed by the Salesian Fathers was given the access to operate in Kakuma after consultations between the Diocese of Lodwar and UNHCR.

The Parish has a vocational centre which offers various courses to the refugees and the host community within the camp. These courses include; carpentry, electrical masonry, welding, tailoring, dressmaking, motor vehicle mechanics, secretarial, computer and English courses.

The main objective of the training is to empower the students with life skills and curb language barrier since some come from countries where English is not spoken.

In an interview with the Don Bosco Technical Institute Project Coordinator Fr. Augustine Kharmuti, both the parish and the vocational training centre face spiritual and financial challenges. “We are two priests here and reaching out to all the faithful is a challenge, we also have trained two catechists to assist in the small Christian communities and working together with three sisters who, follow up on pastoral needs in the families.

Fr. Kharmuti revealed that due to over population caused by recent influx of refugees especially from South Sudan, the Church’s capacity can no longer accommodate the ever increasing number of the faithful hence the need for expansion.

He appealed for financial and material support from the Church, the government and well-wishers in order to be able evangelize widely, to improve the quality of education and to train more students at the centre.

“We train 3,000 to 3,200 students every year and serve 500 to 600 Christians at every Mass” He said.

Meanwhile speaking during World Refugee Day, the refugees spokesperson Demien Hakiza from Congo said the needs of the refugees have not been fully met as a quarter of the 280,000 from various Countries have not yet started benefiting from the handouts given by UNHCR.

Hakiza said others have stayed in the camp for more than five years without official recognition as refugees, an issue which should only take six months from the day of reporting to the camp.

The refugees are mainly from South Sudan, Sudan, Uganda, Burundi, Rwanda, Congo and Ethiopia.

By Rose Achiego; Waumini Communications KCCB

A section of South Sudan and Sudan Bishops
with Pope Francis at the Vatican.

Pope Francis met with the bishops of Sudan and South Sudan on Wednesday, shortly before his weekly general audience. The bishops are in Rome for a meeting organized by the Vatican’s Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples.

During the encounter, the bishops invited the Holy Father to visit South Sudan.

“He said: I am ready. I want to. I want to. I want to. But we have to leave everything in the hands of the Lord,” said Archbishop Paulino Lukudu Loro, of the Archdiocese of Juba.

Archbishop Loro told Vatican Radio’s 105Live the “issue of peace” is still a priority in both countries, especially South Sudan, “because we are at war.”

South Sudan achieved independence from Sudan in 2011, after decades of a civil war which killed over two million people.

Despite initial hopes of a peaceful future after independence was achieved, a civil conflict broke out in 2013 between factions in South Sudan. The new civil war has killed thousands of people and displaced over one million others.

“Without peace, religion has difficulties,” Archbishop Loro said.

He added the Church must also address the issue of vacant dioceses, as well as providing support for the local clergy.

“We must discuss with our superiors in the Congregation [for the Evangelization of People] about how to proceed and accomplish our goals,” the Archbishop said. “There are many questions from us on how to proceed.”

The Catholic Church in South Sudan has one archdiocese, and six suffragan dioceses. The bishops are members of the Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference, which includes the bishops from Sudan.

Catholics make up over a third of the population in South Sudan. In Sudan, Catholics make up just over 3% of the population, while the vast majority of the people are Muslims.

SOURCE: Vatican Radio News

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9).

We, the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB), wish to join fellow Kenyans in expressing our heartfelt condolences to families and friends who lost their loved ones in the line of duty, wish quick recovery to those who have been injured and pray for those who have not been reunited with their families.

We are in solidarity with our men and women in uniform who are serving in neighbouring Somalia, and whose selfless service to our Country has seen them pay the ultimate price in the line of duty. We assure them our prayers and support.

We call upon all Kenyans to stand with bereaved families and friends of our fallen heroes during these difficult moments. Let the blood that our soldiers shed in Somalia bind us together as a Nation, with love, unity and solidarity.

We continue to pray for our brothers and sisters in Somalia, who for decades have never known peace that one day peace shall return back to the Country and its people. The only way to guarantee our Nation’s security is help restore peace in our neighbour’s house. We call upon the international community to work with Kenya to help make this possible as soon as possible.

During this trying moment in our Nation, we wish to assure the President who is also the Commander in Chief of our Armed forces, our soldiers and all Kenyans, our prayers and support. We humbly urge the Government to continue showing solidarity and extend its support to the families of our fallen Heroes.

God Bless Kenya and May we dwell in peace Love and Unity.

Rt. Rev. Philip Anyolo

Chairman, Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops

The Bishops of South Sudan and Sudan had audience with Pope Francis on Wednesday in the sideline of their plenary in Rome, Italy and invited him to visit both countries.

Pope Francis said “I am ready. I want to. I want to. I want to. But we have to leave everything in the hands of the Lord”, Vatican Radio reported.

Pope Francis, who was accompanied by Cardinal Fernando Filoni, greeted each Bishop in the presence of the Apostolic Nuncios of both countries.

Archbishop of Juba Paulino Lukudu Loro said the “issue of peace” is still a priority in both countries, especially South Sudan, “because we are at war.”

He called on the Vatican to address the issue of vacant dioceses and providing support for the local clergy.

The Bishops at the meeting discussed peace, poverty and vocations in each country. They thanked the Holy Father during the meeting.

Pope Francis gave them a written message and made sure that all the bishops had it.

See the Video of the Meeting

Meanwhile, the report released by Stockholm International Peace Research Institute or SIPRI on Tuesday 19^th January, entitled “scenarios for South Sudan in 2020”, outlines possible scenarios for the future pointed out that there is hope for a peaceful future if the 2015 agreement is implemented and the peace process opened up beyond the current parties.

The first scenario indicates ‘united in diversity’ where the agreement is implemented and the peace process consolidated and deepened.

The other picture shows ‘dictatorship’ and ‘21 Kingdoms’ in which tremendous cost in human lives, oppression and the victory of either side may come.

The third scenario predicts divided leadership’ where a badly implemented peace process will lead to renewed war.

The last scenario shows ‘fragmentation’ in which continuation of war may lead to a complete breakdown of the governance.

If South Sudan’s leaders continue to believe that they can potentially win the war, fragmentation of the country is a very likely scenario, warns Dr. Jaïr van der Lijn, Head of SIPRI’s Peace Operations and Conflict Management team.

He adds that the international community is unlikely to come to the rescue, in spite of the terrible human suffering and large refugee flows.

Source: CRN

Rt. Rev Aaron Chisha,
Bishop Emeritus of
Mansa Diocese Zambia

Emeritus Bishop of Mansa diocese Rt. Rev. Aaron Chisha has asked the lay faithful to support and encourage the bishops as they carry out their tasks.

Bishop Chisha said that the Bishops though divinely appointed, face difficult tasks and make sacrifices in line of their duties.

During his homily when Zambia Catholic Bishops held mass with the Catholic secretariat staff in Lusaka on 19^th January, 2016, Bishop Chisha said, “Support the bishops and God will give you abundant blessings.”

Welcoming Bishop elect for Mpika Diocese, Very Rev. Justin Mulenga, he said that the Catholic Church is pleased to have a new bishop for Mpika diocese. “We should be happy in the church that we have a new bishop. It has taken long to have one because the Church makes consultations. The Church could have found one from Mozambique, Sudan or India but it has appointed one from Kasama Archdiocese,” he said.

Making reference to scriptural readings of the day where King David could not harm King Saul, Bishop Chisha said that is how society should be.

“Do not harm even those have who have wronged you. Forgive wholeheartedly those that have wronged you” he advised.

By Mwenya Mkuka, Communications Officer ZEC

Nations from where refugees and migrants are fleeing have been challenged to take seriously the plight of refugees and address the issues causing them to escape from their Countries of origin.

Delivering the Pope’s message for World Refugee day at Kakuma Refugee camp on 17th January 2016, Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) - Chairman for Refugees, Migrants and Seafarers Rt. Rev. Joseph Alessandro called on leaders from various countries to join hands in building peace and ensuring security and development in waring nations as a way of bringing a lasting solution to the displaced people.

The Bishop of Garissa who is also hosting refugees at Dadaab camp said it is not enough to give the displaced handouts but to ensure that they are living a dignified life as all are precious and equal in the eyes of God.

He said Pope Francis expressed concern over the overall indifference to the dilemma of the people fleeing war, famine, and persecution as he addressed ambassadors in Vatican on 11th, January, 2016.

In this extra ordinary jubilee year of Mercy, Pope Francis encourages the faithful to live the acts of mercy which includes: feeding the hungry, giving drink to the thirsty, clothing the naked, sheltering the homeless, visiting the sick, visiting the imprisoned, and burying the dead.

Bishop Alessandro said the Church in Kenya’s manifestation on the acts of mercy welcomes refugees from different countries as she, seeks to understand the causes of migration, works to overcome the negative effects of migration and exploit the positive influence on the international community.

(From Left) Rt. Rev. Virgilio Pante KCCB Vice Chairman
for Refugees, Migrants and Seafarers,
Rt. Rev. Joseph Alessandro, Chairman of the same
commission and Rt. Rev. Dominic Kimengich of Lodwar.

He called on the refugees to accept each other and shun their differences back home. “the courage born of faith, hope and love enables us to reduce the differences and distances that separates us, Jesus is always waiting to be recognized in our brothers and sisters migrants and refugees and through you, Jesus calls us to share our hospitality, friendship, resources, care and love” He said.

The world Refugee day marked at Holy Cross Parish in Kakuma camp in the Diocese of Lodwar was also graced by (KCCB) - Vice Chairman for Refugees, Migrants and Seafarers Rt. Rev. Virgilio Pante and Bishop of Lodwar Rt. Rev. Dominic Kimengich who celebrated the Holy Mass with the refugees, KCCB team led by the National Executive Secretary and the Human Resource Manager Mrs. Margaret Masibo and NGO officials.

Kakuma refugee camp is a home to about 200,000 refugees from South Sudan, Sudan, Uganda, Burundi, Rwanda, Congo and Ethiopia.

By Rose Achiego; Waumini Communications KCCB

In commemoration of the World Day of Social Justice on 20^th February, 2016, the Centre for Social Justice and Ethics (CSJE) of the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) in partnership with AkibaUhaki Foundation, Jesuit Hakimani Centre, PaxRomana-KMCP is planning a conference on Social and Economic Justice to be held at the University’s Learning Resource Centre Auditorium from 17^th to 19^th February 2016.

Interested persons and institutions are invited to the maiden interdisciplinary working conference which is planned to engage academicians, scholars-practitioners, students and policy makers on the question of social justice.

The conference shall consist of several regular sessions spread across the 3-day period and will be designed to provide participants sufficient time to interact. Three plenaries and six panel discussions on selected social justice issues will be held. Panelists will provide varied perspectives on the panel themes to provoke discussion from the floor. Panels will be organized around the following topics: Essentials of social justice and social transformation with sub-topics including Historical and structural injustices and Faiths and social justice for day one; Governance and social justice with sub-topics National Values and Governance and Leadership and integrity for social justice for day two and Imperatives for a sustainable planet with sub-topics Social justice philanthropy and Business and human rights for Day three.

An info-market will be organized to provide a space for event participants and civil society participants to exhibit their work. Sponsors with a social enterprise orientation will also have stalls to exhibit their products and services. Media and online tools will be leveraged at the different stages of the conference. This will allow broader outreach and engagement by participants across the world and in particular students and youth.

Source: CUEA

Bishop Franzelli (left) Archbishop Odama and
the Prime Minister of Uganda cut the
thanksgiving cake as other dignitaries look on

Following the successful historic visit of His Holiness Pope Francis to Uganda in November last year, the Uganda Episcopal Conference (UEC) hosted a colorful appreciation celebration to acknowledge the contribution made by the various organizing committee members, government officials and sponsors towards making the event an unprecedented success.

The thanksgiving and get-together event, which was held on Tuesday 19th January 2016 at the Uganda Catholic Secretariat premises, attracted over 400 invited guests who included members of various organizing committees, top government officials and sponsors among other people. The event kicked-off at exactly 5.45pm amid jubilant songs, traditional and folk dances upon the arrival of the Chief Guest, Prime Minister of Uganda. Hon. Ruhakana Rugunda.

Archbishop Odama hands a gift to the Prime
Minster of Uganda as Msgr Kauta looks on

Hon. Ruhakana was ushered in at the venue by the Chairman of the UEC and the Archbishop of Gulu, Most Rev. John Baptist Odama, the Bishop of Lira, Rt. Rev. Joseph Franzelli, the Bishop of Masaka, Rt. Rev. John Baptist Kaggwa, the Secretary General of UEC, Msgr. John Baptist Kauta, Minister in Charge of General Duties/Office of the Prime Minister. Hon. Kabwegyere Tarsis and other government officials.

Archbishop Odama told the guests that the Holy Father wrote to him a letter expressing his gratitude to all Ugandans for their warm welcome during his visit.

“The whole event was a success which gave the Pope a great joy. The crowd that accompanied him was a sign that people are yearning for Christ. It would not have been possible without the fervent hard work put in by everyone involved thus we are gathered here to celebrate that,” said Archbishop Odama adding, “The visit left us with a very important lesson that the Church and the state can be partners in promoting the common good.”

A section of the invited guests at the function

He also conveyed his thanks and sincere appreciation to the office of the president, cabinet ministers, police, other religious faiths and local authorities for providing tight security and amenities such as water in all the locations.

The Archbishop told the guests that the visit made all Ugandans proud and urged them to keep that pride all the time to maintain unity, hard work and consultation.

“The presence of the various leaders from different political parties and religions, the shaking of the hands of the two presidential candidates in 15 years was proof that the visit knew no religion or political background but it was a demonstration that Uganda only shared oneness,” he stated.

Addressing the guests, Hon. Ruhakana said that many memorable things took place in the nation because of the Papal visit.

“The Holy Father ignited national cohesion in practice. We were used to the presidential candidates hitting at each other but it was not a common sight to see the warmth of the handshaking at Namugongo thus we should follow the Pope’s example of unity,” said Hon. Ruhakana adding “Unity, solidarity and ecumenism was another example from the Holy Father. He first visited the Anglican Shrine, prayed and meditated there. It showed that we have no choice but to follow his example in spite of variation in religion.”

Archbishop Odama later handed over a gift to the Prime Minister, other government officials and dignitaries present. The event concluded at 10pm with the cutting of the cake.

Various dishes and refreshments were served to the guests who couldn’t hide their joy, excitement and gratitude throughout the evening.

By Jacinta W. Odongo; Media Officer, Uganda Episcopal Conference

Group Photo of Catholic Bishops of Zambian
(Inset) Newly appointed Bishop of Mpika
Rt. Rev. Justine Mulenga

The Catholic Bishops of Zambia have embarked on tree planting exercise in all dioceses in Zambia to prevent deforestation. Zambia Episcopal Conference (ZEC) Assistant National Pastoral Coordinator Father Boniface Sakala announced this on behalf of the bishops at the launch of 2015/2016 Lusaka District tree planting exercise by the Ministry of Lands, Natural Resources and Environmental protection held at Cardinal Adam Memorial Hospital, Thursday, 22nd January, 2016.

And the Bishops have said it is not the duty of the Forestry department alone to make every effort to avert the most serious effects of environmental degradation caused by human carelessness.

The bishops also acknowledged that climate change is real, for its effects like poor rainfall experienced in Zambia in the last two years is due excessive cutting of tree.

They have said society must admit that in one way or the other, everyone has contributed to the situation by not taking good care of the environment.

Father Sakala also echoed Pope Francis’ concern for environmental protection.

And launching the tree planting exercise, Lusaka District Commissioner Captain Davises Mulenga appealed for care and protection of the planted trees.

“ It is a well-known fact that we are experiencing rapid disappearance of forests country and if this trend is not reversed we are bound to witness reduction in food production and the environment will be less habitable and temperatures escalate and that will impact climate negatively” He said.

By Mwenya Mkuka, Communications Officer ZEC

Most Rev. John Baptist Odama (right)
during the AGM meeting

With exactly 21 days left to the 2016 Uganda General Elections, the Chairman of the Uganda Episcopal Conference (UEC) and the Archbishop of Gulu Archdiocese, Most Rev. John Baptist Odama has urged the media to be proactive in addressing the issue of violence and ensuring peaceful elections on February 18 this year.

Archbishop Odama made these remarks at the Uganda Catholic Secretariat premises in Kampala on Wednesday 27^th January 2016, during the Second Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Association of Catholic Communication Practitioners in Uganda (ACCPU) that was attended by journalists from various media houses in Uganda.

“We are in a very important state now in this country and you have more knowledge than me, but I have my concerns so that we can work together. I have no idea how the election will be. Will it be free and fair? Will it be peaceful? Nobody knows, but I’ am concerned about the state of this country because I wouldn’t like the country to be destabilized anymore because of the elections,” Archbishop Odama said.

He said that the Catholic Bishops of Uganda will collaborate with the media in the endeavor to promote democracy and peace-building, and will make use of their Pastoral Letter (which was released in August last year)as the guiding principles for the 2016 general elections,. The Pastoral Letter is entitled, “Free and Fair Elections: Our Common Mission to Consolidate Democratic Gains in Uganda.”

Through the watchdog role, he said the local media should protect the public interest and encourage free, fair and peaceful conduct of the elections to achieve the long-term goal of democratic consolidation and human development.

“We had a terrible situation in the northern region for over 20 years and on that part I am so sensitive about the future of this country. If there is anybody who is a great patriot, I would be number two. Unless we are firm on what we want Uganda to be before, during and after the elections, we are likely to see some violence,” Archbishop Odama explained.

He added,“I think we should be proactive on this important matter because many people listen to the media. We love our country so let us be proactive in addressing the issue of violence.”

The Archbishop further stated that he has begun holding talks in his Archdiocese about the consequences of instigating violence before, during and after elections, and he encouraged the journalists to do the same.

“I have been talking to the people in my Archdiocese from the urban areas to the villages and I

Participants

have told them to go to their communities and pass the same message of peace. Whoever causes violence from the national to the grassroots level should be held accountable for any loss of lives, for any injuries or for any destruction. I am very clear on this issue and I am going to continue doing so to avoid violence,” he emphasized.

He quoted a line from Chinua Achebe’s book, ‘Things Fall Apart,’ about the mosquito which always disturbed the ear with noise to remind it that it was still alive, following the ear’s mockery of the mosquito that it was too weak to live long enough for marriage. He urged the journalists to emulate the mosquito’s style to be proactive and persistent in advocating for peace during this period.

Archbishop Odama applauded the ACCPU members for forming the association and for their active participation in making the visit of the Pope to Uganda a great success.

“It is our hope that the members of this association, who have met at the very important juncture, will contribute towards a free, fair and peaceful elections,” he concluded.

The AGM also attracted the UEC Secretary General, Msgr. John Baptist Kauta and the UEC Executive Secretary of the Social Communications Department, Rev. Fr. Philip Odii who was re-elected as an ex-officio member.

By Jacinta W. Odongo; Media Officer, Uganda Episcopal Conference

The Catholic Diocese of Marsabit, Kenya has expressed joy over the opening of the only radio station operating in the jungle; “Radio Jangwani 106.3 FM” owned by the Diocese.

Radio Jangwani which means ‘Desert Radio’ as the name suggest, operates in the largest county in Kenya mainly semi-arid and dominated by pastoralists.

In a telephone interview with Waumini Communications, The Radio Director Fr. Ibrahim Racho said that the radio which went on air on 26th, January, 2016, is a tool for evangelization and aims at addressing social, economic and political concerns of the people of Marsabit. “Through our programs, we intend to promote community dialogue and co-existence in a region confronted by frequent ethnic clashes, cattle rustling and cross border conflicts amongst others,” he said.

Fr Racho confirmed that the radio has been well received by the community members who have given their feedback through the phone calls and text messages sent to the radio.

He added that though there are 14 different communities in Marsabit County, the radio Jangwani broadcasts in four languages: Swahili, Borana, Turkana and Samburu since they are widely understood by all.

Fr. Racho thanked Marsabit Bishop Rt. Rev Peter Kihara who is also the KCCB- Commission for Communication Vice Chairman for ensuring that the Diocese has a radio station, Waumini Communications and other partners for the realization of the project.

Meanwhile, Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) - Waumini communications

Managing Director David Omwoyo said that Radio Jangwani is one of the 20 radio stations envisaged in the strategic plan that hopes to have 20 radio stations across the country by 2020.

Omwoyo said that, Waumini Communications is committed to ensuring that the radio has reliable means of transport to enable accessibility even to the interior parts of the County for news coverage and program production highlighting the need to empower radio personnel through capacity building, training on conflict resolution, investigative journalism and others as the need arise.

He said the radio is a vital tool in addressing issues of tribal clashes by preaching peace, encouraging rural development, offering community education and addressing issues of radicalization through its daily programming.

The radio that still require a higher transmission power, covers 150km radius and is reaching to all the 13 Parishes on a 78,000 square kilometers.

By Rose Achiego, Waumini Communications, KCCB

The Episcopal Conference of Malawi (ECM) which is comprised of all Catholic Bishops in Malawi met in Lilongwe at Catholic Secretariat for their first plenary in the year 2016 and among others in attendance was the AMECEA chairman, His Eminence Berhaneyesus D. Cardinal Souraphiel, the Apostolic Nuncio to Malawi and Zambia, His Excellence Most Reverend Julio Murat and the Secretary General for AMECEA, Very Reverend Ferdinand Lugonzo.

In a statement release by Fr. Henry Saindi, Secretary General for ECM, this first plenary meeting which was held from Monday, January 25 to January, 29and among other things reflected on financial planning and resource mobilization for the Catholic Church in Malawi and explore new ways of strengthening partnership with donor organizations such as Trocaire,Caritas Norway and Norwegian Church Aid.

“The plenaryalso received update reports on AMECEA’s Gitanga project, and projects from ECM development Committee, National Movement Formation Manuals and books in Divine Mercy,” reads part of the statement.

Apart from receiving progress reports pertaining to the Catholic Secretariat, the statement further states that the Bishops reflected on activities for the Year of Mercy and discussed matters pertaining to priestly formation in the seminaries and received update reports from the Catholic University of Malawi. They also appraised the present social and political situation and received progress reports from representatives of the Associations of Catholic religious men and women and the Association of Diocesan Clergy.

ECM plenary meetings are held twice every year. In January and June.

By Prince Henderson, Communications Officer ECM

Rt. Rev. Joseph Alessandro

The newly appointed Bishop of Garissa Rt. Rev. Joseph Alessandro is determined to change the perception of Muslims and Christians in Garissa Diocese through education.

In an interview with Waumini Communications in Nairobi on 20th, January 2015, Bishop Alessandro said education is a vital tool in breaking boundaries of religion, tribalism and politics besides being a key to success.

He noted with sorrow that schools in Garissa Diocese suffered a setback in education, health, security and many other sectors due to the Garissa University attack. On 2 April 2015, gunmen stormed the Garissa University College in Garissa, Kenya, killing 148 people and injuring 79 or more. The militant group and Al-Qaeda offshoot, Al-Shabaab, which the gunmen claimed to be from, took responsibility for the attack.

“Many schools were shut down after parents pulled out their children and teachers withdrew due to fear of similar attacks,” he said.

Bishop Alessandro who is now appealing to well-wishers to support the Diocese financially, materially and with prayers, confirms that the situation has normalised as the number of children reporting back to school this year has tremendously increased. “This is a sign of progress and courage to continue with education, provision of health care and evangelisation. We are planning to build more primary schools, build the first secondary school and to provide houses for priests and sisters willing to serve in the Diocese.” He said

In response to the Bishop’s call through Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) - Commission for Education and Religious Education, Longhorn Publishers Limited donated nursery and primary school text books worth more than half a million Kenya shillings.

Handing over the books to the Bishop Alessandro in the presence of Commission for Education and Religious Education National Executive Secretary, Augusta Muthigani, Longhorn National Sales Manager Maurice Kahara said his company felt the needs of the diocese and donated the books in an attempt to fulfil their calling to charity, sponsorship and giving back to the society.

Longhorn has exhibited a close working relationship with the Catholic Church through sponsorship of Catholic Schools Principals’ conferences at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA), Diocesan meetings and publication of hymn books for Kitui Diocese. They also work with the Dioceses of Bungoma and Mombasa.

The Catholic Diocese of Garissa run five primary and eight nursery schools attended by both Muslim and Christian children, a health centre, clinics and a rehabilitation centre for the physically handicapped. The Diocese caters for maintenance of these facilities by offering financial and spiritual support.

By Rose Achiego, Waumini Communications, KCCB

The Catholic Bishops of South Sudan and Sudan vow to bless any plan "B" or "C'' that the international community will enforce if the SPLM-IO and the South Sudanese Government fail to implement the peace agreement.

The Bishops in a message after their extraordinary meeting in Rome, Italy, said that they will bless an appropriate plan to rescue the situation of South Sudan.

They expressed concern that the peace process should not hold this time as South Sudan is already described as "failed state".

The Bishops are also calling for more efforts for dialogue and peace in theSudan.They encourage attempts of the warring parties of the Sudan to bring lasting peace to Darfur, Blue Nile and South Kordofan.

The Bishops regret the resumption of bombardments of innocent people in these areas this month.They call on the Sudanese now to be the first to realize that war and killing do not solve problems.

The Bishops urged the Government of both Sudan and South Sudan to sit with warring factions and negotiate for a just and peaceful settlement to the conflict.

Meanwhile the United Nations panel of experts has recommended the blacklisting of President SalvaKiir and SPLM-IO leader Dr RiekMachar and imposing of arms embargo on South Sudan.

In the leaked confidential report seen by Reuters, the experts say they uncovered direct links between people who committed crimes on both sides of the conflict and the two leaders.They said that high-ranking officials of the Government and SPLM/A-IO knew exactly the crimes were being committed.

The report also asserts that UN’s peacekeepers are "regularly attacked, harassed, detained, intimidated and threatened.” However, it did not specify who attacked UN soldiers.

The diplomats and experts believe the latest report will place President Kiir and Dr Machar on sanction list.If the report is approved by the 15-member UN Security Council, the two leaders will be banned from travelling and asset freezes will also be enacted.

President Kiir and Dr Machar failed to form a transitional government on January 22.

Source: CRN

The Catholic Bishops of Zambia have called for a genuine commitment to democratic values, renunciation of violence and hate speech by all political parties.

In the January 2016 state of the nation Pastoral Letter that addressed various issues the bishops said among the duties of the government are to guarantee peace and security for all, to respect people’s liberties and to promote a genuine and non-discriminatory rule of law.

The 13 bishops that signed the Pastoral Letter under the theme: “Let there be Peace Among US”, further urged leaders in government to be the torch-bearers in the promotion of true reconciliation and peace.

To the Youths, the bishops said that they are supposed to be leaders of tomorrow but they have to start exercising leadership today.

“We advise the youths to claim their genuine political space in the electoral process. They should refuse to be used as mere tools of violence by politicians. We appeal to the youth to accept and tolerate divergent views”, they said.

Meanwhile, the bishops have called upon the media to be professional by reporting truthfully, objectively and factually as they inform the public.

They urged them to provide equitable coverage in the electoral process and avoid promoting partisan politics in the manner of reporting.

They said that as Zambia votes on August 11, 2016, they want to see a media landscape that is not polarized where the public media is pro-ruling party while the private media is pro-opposition parties.

“We urge the public media to be professional, ensure full and fair coverage of all political parties. We also want to see a private and community based media that remain professional, accommodative and inclusive in its covering of issues. Whichever media platform one uses, should not fuel hate speech or insults in the name of the right to freely express oneself. We also want a responsible use and reception of social media” They said.

And Bishops have urged all Christians to use their prophetic voice in their communities to promote unity in the country and refuse any politician to use their Churches and liturgical functions as campaign forums.

They said it is the duty of all Christians to use their prophetic voice to denounce all forms of fraud in the electoral process.

“All the members of the Church must strive to ensure that the Gospel values of love, reconciliation, tolerance, social justice, fairness, the common good, and equality are promoted in our political and economic life”, they said.

When cautioning the clergy to avoid being partisan, the Bishops said, “We also appeal particularly to our own catholic priests to remain non-partisan. The Church law is very clear on this (Cf. Canon Law 285 and Catechism of the Catholic Church # 2442).

It is morally wrong for the catholic priest to use the pulpit to campaign for, or de-campaign any political party or parties. In as much as we welcome Catholic politicians to celebrate Mass with us, they must not give them any platform to speak during liturgical celebrations”, the Bishops added.

By Mwenya Mukuka, ZEC Communications Office

President Omer Al-Bashir

Sudanese President, President Omar Al-Bashir, on Wednesday, issued a decree ordering the opening of the borders with the South Sudan.

Sudan News Agency reported that President Omar Al-Bashir directed the concerned authorities to take all the necessary measures for the implementation of this decision on the ground.

In another development, last week, President Bashir directed his authorities to reduce the transit fees for the oil produced in South Sudan.On Monday, President SalvaKiir ordered SPLA to withdraw from the borders with Sudan to five miles or eight kilometres.

The President disclosed that he dispatched a special envoy to Khartoum to convey to President Al-Bashir his desire to normalize ties with Sudan.

Last November the two countries agreed to reactivate the safe border demilitarized zone agreed on September 27, 2012 and to deploy a joint monitoring force.

Source: CRN

The European Union and Konrad Adenauer Foundation wants to strengthen ordinary Kenyans’ rights to service delivery from the county governments under a devolved system of government launched 4 years ago in Kenya by strengthening logistical capacities of the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) – Catholic Justice and Peace Commission (CJPC) - in conjunction with

Speaking to Waumini Communications, CJPC National Executive Secretary Beatrice Odera said the project dubbed Strengthening the capacity of the state and none state actors for effective devolved governance, aims at creating awareness on duties and obligations of county assembly officials over devolved resources and services, and empower ordinary citizens to effectively contribute to legislative processes in their Counties.

The project is being implemented by three organizations - Centre for Emergency Democracy and Good Governance (CFDGG) that covers West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo and Nakuru, Mobilization, agency for Paralegal Communities in Africa (MAPACA) in Kitui, Machakos and Makueni and CJPC which is covering Mombasa, Kilifi and Tana River.

Meanwhile, CJPC received a donation of a Nissan X-trail worth ksh1.2million from the European Union and Konrad Adenauer Foundation on January 28, 2016.

Konrad Adenauer Foundation devolution program director Gregor Jaecke said the car would be useful in implementing the project in the coastal region by reaching out to the people at the grass root level.

The vehicle, which was received by Rev. Dr. Fr. Charles Odira on behalf of KCCB General Secretary, Very Rev. Fr. Daniel Rono, was the third of three cars donated by EU and Konrad Adenauer Foundation.

By Rose Achiego, Waumini Communications KCCB

Group Photo of AMECEA staff and friends
who attended Memorial Mass for Fr. Pikiti's Mother

AMECEA Secretariat staff held a memorial mass service for the late Mama Emilia Pikiti, mother to Rev. Fr. Febian Mulenga Pikiti, the coordinator of AMECEA Pastoral Department.

Mama Emilia passed away on Christmas Eve, 24^th December 2015 in Zambia. Rt Rev Charles Kasonde, AMECEA Executive Board Zambian delegate represented AMECEA to the funeral which took place on 29th December 2015 at Kasama.

The memorial service at the secretariat which was led by AMECEA Secretary General Rev. Fr. Ferdinand Lugonzo was attended by AMECEA Staff, AMECEA Institutions’ staff led by Vice Chancellor of the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) Msgr. Pius Rutechura, and Rector of AMECEA Bakanja College Rev. Fr. Patrick Nyongesa; First Secretary of the Zambia High Commission in Kenya Mr. Robert Kalimi, Zambian Priests working in Kenya among others.

Fr. Lugonzo appreciated all who came for the Holy Mass, and termed it as an act of solidarity with the secretariat and spirit of brotherhood and neighborhood to Fr. Pikiti and his family.

“We continue to pray for you and your entire family. Losing a mother is more painful, however, be consoled that she is now in a better place and is with you in your heart, she is praying for you and is watching over you,” he told Fr. Pikiti.

Mr. Kalimi from Zambian High commission however, said that he did not attend the memorial service in his capacity as an envoy from the commission, but as a friend and a brother to Fr. Pikiti. He said that the memorial mass was a sign of good spirit and an African way of living.

(From Left) Fr. Febian Pikiti,
Mr. Robert Kalimi from
Zambian Embassy in Kenya
and Fr. Christopher Kafula

“Mama Emilio died at the age of 85 and we all wish to reach that age. What we should be reflecting about is how did she manage to reach that age since the majority of people in our generation hardly live that long; was it the diet, the way of life, perhaps being obedient to God and the law of the land? This is something we really need to think about,” Mr. Kalimi urged.

Meanwhile, during the same memorial prayers were also held in repose of the souls of Mama Helena Shula, and Job Malongo. The late mama Helena was the mother to Rev. Fr. Christopher Kafula of Marian Hill Missionaries. Fr. Kafula is from Zambia and is currently a student at CUEA. His mother passed away on 2^nd December 2015 and was buried on 5^th December.

The Late Job Malongo who passed away on 8^th January 2016 and was buried on 12^thJanuary was a grandson to Edward Luganji Mulembani who is a staff at AMECEA Secretariat.

May their souls rest in eternal peace Amen

By Pamela Adinda, AMECEA Online News

The Council of Presidents of Inter-Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU) has organized the weekend of February 12-14, 2016 to conduct national prayers for peace, unity and stability as the country prepares for the General Elections due February 18, 2016.

Sheikh Ramadhan Shaban Mubajje, Co-Chair IRCU and the Mufti of Uganda said that the prayers will be held by all religious faiths in Uganda at their respective places of worship.

“The Muslims are expected to hold their prayer day on Friday February 12, while the Seventh-day Adventists on Saturday February 13 and the Catholics, Anglicans, Orthodox, Pentecostals, Evangelicals and others on Sunday February 14, respectively,” he said.

Addressing journalists on Friday February 5 at the offices of the IRCU in Namirembe, a Kampala suburb; reflecting on the Status of the 2016 General elections, Sheikh Ramadhan pointed out some of the challenges that have in the past brought the would-be democratic process to disrepute. “These are such as:- inadequate internal democracy within political parties, credibility of the Electoral Commission, vote buying, voter apathy, intolerance and violence, militia groups, intimidation, use of abusive language and ballot stuffing,” he said adding that. “A few weeks to the polling day, these issues remain the key concerns of many people both within and outside the country and there is a need for urgent action.”

The Mufti urged all leaders from the Christian, Muslim, and other communities to pray for the candidates, the voters, various groups including women, children and the youth for a peaceful election.

He also called on all politicians not to bribe voters, incite violence or hold voters to their personal desires. He advised that they need to display a high level of statesmanship so that they can be able to lead this country to prosperity.

Meanwhile, the Vicar General of Kampala Archdiocese, Rev. Fr. Charles Kasibante who represented Most Rev. Charles Kizito Lwanga, the Archbishop of Kampala urged believers to pray to God to provide the right leaders for the country.

“As religious leaders we are not supposed to be involved in partisan election or campaign for any individual politician because all sides are our people and people of
God. Politicians are welcomed to our churches but we call upon everyone to pray that God would provide the right leaders for the country vote,” Fr. Kasibante said.

The Press Conference was also attended by the Secretary General of the Uganda Episcopal Conference, Msgr John Baptist Kauta and the former chairperson of the Judicial Service Commission and the head of the Elders Forum, Justice James Ogoola.

Justice Ogoola called on all Ugandans to vote for a leader who can lead Uganda with a steady hand and a sober head in matters of International Relations.

He also urged everyone to show support for the second Presidential Elections debate slated for February 13, 2016. The debate will focus on foreign policy, taking into account regional integration, border trade, and crime among others, one of the organizers.

The debate will also take into account how Uganda features in the inter-play of affairs between the Great Lakes Region and the Horn of Africa.

By Jacinta W. Odongo, Media Officer, Uganda Episcopal Conference

Catholic University of South Sudan campus in Wau has resumed lectures after few days of strike. Vice Chancellor, Fr. Mathew Pagan, said that student’s demands were contained, Radio Bakhita reported.

“Economic crisis have come and bites everybody, we need also to increase the fees in order to cope up with the situation,” he explained.

The Vice Chancellor disclosed that the problem of insufficient lecturers was a general issue on which the university was looking for possible ways of resolving the situation.

“The issue will be resolved, they are not big problems, they are just internal problems,” Fr. Pagan explained in a telephone interview adding that “You have all the rights of expressing your demands but this should not interfere other people’s rights.”

The Vice Chancellor was responding to students’ recent strike in Wau against increment of fees.

Meanwhile, the Catholic Radio Network (CRN) is training Anisa Radio Journalists in Yambio on professional news writing.

CRN media trainer Ilona Eveleens, during the first session said that people trust journalists only when they perform their duties responsibly. She urged the journalists to cross-check their sources of information and balance the stories. She also challenged media personnel to do their work very well.

According to Fr Elario Bazia Zambakari, the Director of Anisa Radio, the training aimed at building the capacity of the staff, as he pledged that his administration will frequently organize similar trainings.

CRN Director Enrica Valentini also made her first visit to the station. She explained that it is her responsibility to go on the ground to understand what people are doing.

Source: CRN

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