Inter-Religion meet to celebrate with Muslims, urge for unity

The Inter-Religious Council of Kenya (IRCK) jointly with Harmony in Kenya held an Interfaith Iftar Dinner themed Strengthening Interfaith Harmony for National Cohesion.

The event was to celebrate different diversities as people of all faiths and beliefs; and a commitment as Kenyans to strengthen national unity for a cohesive society.

The event brought together different faiths, the business community, government institutions, the diplomatic corps, media, and other stakeholders as a way of enhancing and strengthening interfaith harmony to enhance peace and national cohesion.

The leaders called for harmonious and peaceful coexistence among the different faiths.

Joseph Mutie who is the chairman, addressed practical aspects of Value Based Peace building with experiences of religious leaders in Kenya in peacebuilding.

"We must acknowledge our diversity and then promote our shared values as a Nation. This way we will know the aspects of any digital era that are either productive or destructive," Mutie said.

Mutie said, at the core of all the faith systems and traditions is the recognition that enhances mutual understanding, harmony and cooperation which is important for peaceful coexistence.

The IRCK Executive Director, Sheikh Abdiraman Ismael said Kenyans should embrace each other irrespective of their political, religious and social inclination.

"This kind of engagement provides good spaces for experience sharing and learning and should be replicated by IRCs across the region. This not only deepens cooperation in the region but also solve common challenges in a sustainable manner," Abdirahman said.

Abdirahman said, the holy month of Ramadan is a time of reflection, generosity and forgiveness when Muslims all over the world fast during the day and break their fasts in the evening with an Iftar meal.

''This meal symbolizes unity and the coming together of people from all walks of life,'' he said.

DTB Diamond Trust bank CEO, Nasim Devji, said the institution will continue to support and appreciate solid cohesiveness among Kenyans to foster peace.

Devji noted that with peace, even the business community will have a conducive environment to thrive.

"Today we are reminded of our solid cohesiveness as Kenyan people. Let us celebrate our diversity and unity as Kenyans."

"As we break bread together tonight, let us celebrate our diversity and unity as Kenyans, renew our commitment to building a more harmonious pluralistic and cohesive society, where people of all faiths and beliefs can thrive,'' she said.