Government, Faith Leaders Reaffirm Commitment to Religious Freedom and Peaceful Coexistence

By Christopher mbiti 

Nairobi Kenya| 23rd July 2026



Government institutions, faith leaders and human rights organisations on Thursday reaffirmed their commitment to protecting freedom of religion and belief during the official close-out event of the Together for Freedom of Religion and Belief (TOFORB) Project held at the Argyle Grand Hotel Nairobi Airport. The event brought together representatives from government agencies, religious organisations, civil society and development partners to reflect on the progress made in promoting religious freedom, social cohesion and peaceful coexistence across Kenya.

The forum was held against the backdrop of increasing concerns over religious intolerance, hate speech, violent extremism and discrimination, challenges that continue to threaten social harmony in parts of Kenya and the wider region. Participants noted that safeguarding the constitutional right to freedom of religion and belief requires sustained collaboration among government institutions, faith communities and civil society organisations.

Throughout the event, stakeholders reviewed the achievements of the TOFORB Project, which has brought together key actors to strengthen the promotion and protection of freedom of religion and belief. Discussions focused on the progress made, the lessons learned and the partnerships needed to sustain the project's gains beyond its official conclusion. Participants emphasized that promoting mutual respect among people of different faiths remains critical in building a peaceful and inclusive society.


The programme featured presentations highlighting the project's impact, panel discussions and recommendations on strengthening institutional cooperation in addressing religious intolerance and promoting fundamental rights. Representatives from the National Steering Committee (NSC), the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), the National Assembly and other partner organisations attended the forum and shared perspectives on the importance of protecting freedom of religion as guaranteed under the Constitution.

Stakeholders also underscored the need to strengthen interfaith dialogue as a tool for preventing conflict and fostering understanding among Kenya's diverse religious communities. The meaningful engagement between faith leaders, government institutions and local communities has contributed to reducing tensions, promoting inclusion and addressing emerging threats such as hate speech and violent extremism. Participants further called for continued investment in programmes that encourage dialogue, tolerance and respect for diversity.


The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from participating institutions to continue working together in advancing freedom of religion and belief beyond the lifespan of the TOFORB Project. Stakeholders expressed optimism that the partnerships established through the initiative would continue to support national efforts aimed at strengthening peaceful coexistence, protecting human rights and promoting social cohesion across the country.

 Organisers said the forum marked not only the end of the project but also the beginning of a renewed phase of collaboration focused on ensuring that every Kenyan enjoys the right to practice their religion or belief without fear of discrimination or exclusion.

Ends




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