Anglican Archbishop Sapit asks Kenyans to celebrate with sobriety

The Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) Jackson ole Sapit, right, has asked Kenyans to celebrate with “sobriety” and cautioned them against careless use of their financial resources in lavish celebrations during the Christmas and New Year festivities only to find themselves penniless when the new year begins.

In his Christmas message to Kenyans, Dr Sapit advised parents to ensure that even as they continue to engage in feasting and travel throughout the festive season, they should bear in mind that they will pay school fees for their children in January when schools reopen.

“Let us curb our spending so that January does not become a month of grief, but instead a moment when we can all be able to manage the situation and face the demands of the New Year,” said Dr Sapit.

At the same time, the cleric warned against the habit of drinking alcohol and driving which, he said, had become a menace during festive seasons in the past as it had led to loss of many lives which could have been avoided had the drivers been sober and alert.

“Let us not indulge in actions like drinking and driving because we will end up jeopardising many people’s lives. Let us also be responsible both on the road and at home and let this Christmas be one of joy and not one that will end in grief,” he said.

With the elections also expected next year, Dr Sapit called on Kenyans to use the Christmas season to spread love and cheer among themselves and reject any efforts by political leaders who will be running for various seats in the elections to divide them along tribal lines.

REMAIN UNITED

He said the church was hopeful the country would remain united before and after the polls and called on political leaders to avoid making statements that could turn Kenyans against one another.

Meanwhile, many activities have been lined up in Kisumu even as spending reduced among residents. From hiked fares, to full bookings, top performers, increased security and intensified road safety campaign, the lakeside city seem to be the busiest as visitors flock to have a feel of the town.

Kisumu is increasingly becoming an entertainment hub attracting international artists such as Congolese superstar Ferre Gola who is expected to display an electrifying performance for Lingala lovers on Christmas Eve. He will be the leading act during the Pacho festival at the Jumuiya grounds, with tickets at Sh1,000 and Sh2,500 VIP.

On the same day, Ohangla Maestro Emma Jalamo will be entertaining hundreds of revelers at the famous Club Da Place in Mamboleo.

According to the Chairman of Western Kenya Hospitality Leaders Association Robinson Anyal the town is a buzz with festivals, parties-events and domestic tourism related activities.

There is the Lohana community festival which to Mr Anyal has boosted occupancies for the hotels around. “There has been more than 10 per cent increase in occupancy for the top hotels Acacia, Sovereign, The vic and Imperial,” said Mr Anyal.

His advice is that the national tour agents and operators to take the opportunity and include attractions in the Western Circuit in their packages.

Additional reporting by Rushdie Oudia.