In the heart of Kajiado East, Kenya, a powerful wave of transformation is sweeping through the Poka region, and it began with 57 pastors and church leaders from 17 churches gathering for a three-day Gender, Equality, Reconciliation, and Partnership (GERP) training.

From July 23rd to 25th, 2024, ALARM Kenya held a landmark training at Oltinka Baptist Church, equipping men and women of faith with knowledge and courage to address deeply rooted gender inequalities and harmful cultural practices in their communities.

For generations, the Maasai culture has been shaped by patriarchal traditions that often leave women and girls without voice or ownership. But something is shifting. With your support, ALARM is bringing a new lens of justice, equality, and biblical reconciliation to the church, positioning spiritual leaders as champions of change.

During the training, our experienced facilitators led sessions on:

• The biblical foundation for gender equality and partnership
• Understanding gender-based violence and its root causes
• The complexities of gender roles and relationships in society
• Practical tools for addressing FGM, early marriage, and property rights inequality

The training was interactive, intimate, and eye-opening. Leaders asked difficult questions, shared experiences, and engaged with Scripture in a new way. The impact was evident; hearts and minds were transformed.

Voices of Transformation

Pastor Nicholas Lenturai, from Kenya Assemblies of God, Goshen, shared:
“As pastors, we now understand how to minister to everyone: children, elders, and especially the oppressed in our community. ALARM has opened our eyes.”

Gloria Kanchori, from Free Pentecostal Church Samuli, reflected:
“This training has empowered us to help women who have no voice. Many suffer in silence from abuse and gender-based violence. Now we know how to respond, and we need more of this.”

Duncan Kareka, another participant, emphasized the need for continued learning:
“We are grateful not just for the training, but also for ALARM’s support during the 2022 drought. Your compassion speaks volumes.”

Why It Matters

This isn’t just a workshop, it’s a spark. Each of the 57 leaders trained now returns to their congregations and communities equipped to challenge injustice, affirm dignity, and bring healing. In patriarchal systems where change is slow and resistance is high, church leaders are uniquely placed to influence culture and policy from within.

Thanks to our partners like Vista Hermosa Foundation, this change is possible. Your generosity fuels this critical work, transforming not only churches but entire communities.

Help Us Do More

The need is great, and the hunger for knowledge and healing is even greater. We’re planning follow-up sessions to deepen understanding on culture, gender norms, and biblical justice. Your support makes these trainings—and the ripple effect of transformation—possible.

Join us in building reconciled communities where everyone—man, woman, and child—can thrive.