NAIROBI, Kenya – Former NFL star and American pastor Rickey Allen Bolden is expected to deliver the keynote address at Kenya’s 22nd National Prayer Breakfast, slated for Wednesday, May 28, at the Safari Park Hotel in Nairobi.
The annual interfaith gathering, organized by Kenya’s bicameral Parliament, comes at a time of heightened economic anxiety, youth unrest, and political division.
This year’s theme, “Rise and Shine”, borrows from Isaiah 60:1 and seeks to inspire renewal in a country grappling with hard choices.
Bolden, a former Miami Dolphins offensive lineman whose football career was cut short by injury, is now a globally recognized pastor and motivational speaker.
His message, shaped by personal transformation, resilience, and faith, is expected to strike a chord with Kenyans facing tough socio-economic realities.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, co-patron of the event, has invited all Kenyans to participate in the national moment of reflection.
“I welcome all Kenyans to gather at Safari Park Hotel to pray for our country and for themselves,” he said.
The breakfast, which brings together political leaders, clergy, diplomats, and civil society representatives, has in the past provided a rare space for bipartisan dialogue and unity.
Last year’s edition drew a high-powered delegation including President William Ruto, opposition leader Raila Odinga, and Chief Justice Martha Koome.
Whether the same political heavyweights will attend this year remains uncertain amid renewed tension between government and opposition ranks.
Still, organizers remain optimistic that the moment offers more than symbolism.
“‘Rise and Shine’ is not just a theme—it’s a national vision,” said Senate Speaker Amason Kingi. “It urges us to rise above political polarization, rebuild trust, and restore hope.”
Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo, who chairs the event’s organizing committee, said Bolden’s journey from sports to spiritual leadership mirrors the resilience Kenya must summon today.
“This year’s message is timely,” said Maanzo. “It’s a call for moral clarity, unity, and action.”
Also speaking ahead of the breakfast, Marsabit Woman Rep Naomi Waqo and nominated Senator Veronica Maina—co-chairs of the Parliamentary Christian Women Caucus—urged Kenyan women to take an active role in the country’s healing.
“When women pray, things move,” said Senator Maina, referencing the peaceful 2022 elections as a turning point linked to prayerful intervention.
Reflecting the country’s religious and cultural diversity, tomorrow’s event will include scripture readings and prayers from Christian, Muslim, and Hindu traditions.
Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan is expected to read from the Quran, while Hindu representative Sujantha Kotamraju and Mbeere South MP Eng. Benard Muriuki will also lead interfaith reflections.
Apostle Isi Igenegba, a Nigerian preacher and founder of the People of Influence Network, will also address the gathering, challenging Kenyan leaders to make difficult choices for national renewal.
Cabinet Secretary for Lands Alice Wahome added her voice, calling for bipartisan collaboration among women leaders to uplift communities beyond party lines.
Beyond Bolden’s keynote, the event will include reflections on urgent national issues including youth unemployment, corruption, mental health, climate change, and social justice. T
he Parliamentary Choir will perform the hymn “My Hands Are Blessed”, led by Majority Whip Silvanus Osoro.
The breakfast will begin at 7:00 a.m. and will be broadcast live across major TV stations and digital platforms to allow for nationwide participation.
“This is not just about politics; it’s about purpose,” Senator Maanzo said. “It’s a moment for the country to pause, pray, and reset.”
