This proposed treaty, they said, “provides a roadmap for a global transition to renewables and the phasing out of harmful fossil fuel production which is accelerating the climate crisis, and it is rooted in the values of justice, fairness, and care for the earth that resonate with all our faiths.”
Present during the briefing included, Fr. Peter Mbaro - Director, Centre for Social Justice and Ethics at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA), Sr Mary Wangare- Executive Director of the Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation Franciscans Africa (JPIC-FA), and Ashley Kitisya, a Catholic environmentalist and program manager at The Laudato Si’ Movement-Africa.
Also in attendance were Hakeem Khalid representing the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM), Rev. Dennis Nthenge representing Green Anglicans, and Monk Kamita representing Hare Krishna
The interfaith briefing, which officials of the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative, The Laudato Si’ Movement, and Green Faith organized sought to address key questions from the media about how to communicate the treaty, its core pillars, and how future events can be cover.
The organizers said that the briefing also sought to provide an opportunity for faith leaders, climate experts, and affected communities to share why Kenya, recognized as a climate leader, should take the lead among African nations in endorsing the treaty proposal, to achieve a fair and well-financed global transition to renewable energy.
In their September 20 statement, the faith leaders highlighted the importance of environmental stewardship which they say is “a shared value across faith traditions.”
“We are reminded of the sacred responsibility entrusted to us – to care for the earth and all its inhabitants,” the faith leaders say, referring to the worsening climate crisis, which, according to them, is exacerbated by the continued use of fossil fuels.
They term the impacts of climate change such as droughts, floods, and food insecurity as immediate threats to the country, adding that the burning of fossil fuels contributes to the issue.
“The burning of fossil fuels is not only responsible for the majority of carbon emissions but also for the local pollution that endangers our health, agriculture, and water sources,” they say, and emphasize that it is a moral duty to act for the sake of future generations.
The faith leaders further appeal for prayers for Kenya’s leaders, including President Ruto, to be guided by wisdom in responding to the environmental crisis.
