Sekution, Tapach Ward
ALARM Kenya conducted a four-day Gender, Equality, Reconciliation and Partnership (GERP) training in Sekution, West Pokot County, bringing together 67 church leaders from 25 congregations across Parayon Location. The training gathered pastors and leaders from different denominations, creating a rare space where churches that often operate separately came together to learn, reflect, and grow in unity.
The training focused on equipping church leaders with a deeper understanding of gender, equality, equity, reconciliation, and partnership, grounded in biblical teaching and practical application. Participants explored how these principles influence leadership, relationships, and community life, while also reflecting on how cultural beliefs can sometimes shape interpretations of scripture and social roles.
A strong emphasis was placed on addressing gender-based violence, including its root causes, effects, and prevention. Church leaders were encouraged to see their role not only as spiritual guides but also as key actors in promoting justice, healing, and protection within their communities. Through open discussions and group engagement, many participants shared that the training helped them rethink long-held assumptions and approach leadership with renewed perspective.
One of the most significant impacts of the training was the unity it fostered among church leaders from different denominations and locations. For the first time, leaders from across Parayon Location sat together in the same learning environment, openly engaging with one another, sharing experiences, and correcting misconceptions in a spirit of respect and collaboration. This created a sense of shared responsibility for community transformation beyond denominational boundaries.
Participants consistently expressed that the training was both eye-opening and timely. Many noted that it challenged them to revisit scripture with a fresh lens, free from cultural bias, and to consider more inclusive approaches to leadership. Women leaders in particular highlighted how the training strengthened their understanding of equality and equity, giving them greater confidence in their roles within the church and community.
There was also a strong and unified message from participants: the training needed to continue. Many leaders felt that the four days were not enough to fully explore the depth of the topics covered and requested further engagement to deepen their understanding and practical application in their congregations.
The overall impact of the training is already being felt through the commitment of leaders to take these lessons back to their churches. Leaders pledged to influence change within their congregations, promote inclusive leadership, and address harmful cultural practices that do not align with biblical principles of justice and reconciliation.
This GERP training marks an important step in strengthening the church’s role in community transformation in West Pokot. By investing in local leaders, ALARM Kenya is contributing to a long-term shift that will influence families, churches, and communities toward greater unity, equity, and peace.
