NAIROBI, Kenya — The Atheists in Kenya Society (AIK) has called for the immediate abolishment of the National Prayer Breakfast, terming the annual gathering an extravagant and unjustified use of public funds.
In a statement released just hours before this year’s event at Nairobi’s Safari Park Hotel, AIK President Harrison Mumia criticized the event as “unnecessary” and “without priority,” arguing that it serves no constitutional or practical purpose for Kenyans.
“This year, millions of taxpayers’ money will be wasted on the National Prayer Breakfast,” Mumia said, claiming that government resources should be directed toward essential services rather than ceremonial functions.
The National Prayer Breakfast, now in its 22nd year, is a high-profile, interdenominational event organized under the auspices of Parliament.
It draws leaders from across Kenya’s political, religious, and civil society spectrum for a morning of reflection, prayer, and speeches aimed at fostering unity and reconciliation.
But Mumia, who attended last year’s event, said his firsthand experience confirmed his belief that the function is more symbolic than substantive.
“It is our position that the National Prayer Breakfast should be abolished,” he said.
Today, millions of taxpayers’ money will be wasted on the National Prayer Breakfast. This year’s Prayer Breakfast will take place at the Safari Park Hotel in Nairobi. This event, organized by Parliament, is unnecessary and ostensibly without priority.
While the event is not mandated by the Constitution, it has become a fixture on Kenya’s political calendar since its inception in 2003.
Inspired by the U.S. National Prayer Breakfast, the Kenyan edition was created to bring leaders together across political and ethnic divides—especially during times of national tension.
This year’s event, themed “Rise and Rebuild,” was expected to address issues of national healing and ethical leadership in the wake of recent political turbulence.
But AIK argues that such goals can be pursued without religious overtones and public expense.
“All government spending must provide a necessary public service and serve a clear national interest,” the group said, adding that Kenyans deserve “a government that is meticulous at avoiding wasteful and unnecessary spending.”
The critique comes amid growing debate about the role of religion in state affairs and the cost of ceremonial events in a country facing economic strain.
Despite the objections, the National Prayer Breakfast continues to enjoy support from key state officials and international partners.
Past attendees have included presidents, religious leaders, and high-ranking diplomats, all emphasizing the event’s role in promoting dialogue and national unity.
Still, Mumia’s call taps into a broader conversation about government accountability, constitutionalism, and inclusivity in national events.
