Faith Groups “must continue to build momentum” Against Fossil Fuel: Kenyan Laudato Si’ Movement Official

“Together, we can build a future that honors God’s creation and ensures that the poor and vulnerable are protected from the ravages of climate change. Let us rise to this sacred calling and work for the world we want to leave for future generations,” she said.

The Programs Manager at Laudato Si’ Movement in Africa (LSM) said faith communities can ensure leaders act decisively on the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty.

The treaty aims to address climate change by stopping the expansion of fossil fuel production, phasing out existing fossil fuel infrastructure, and investing in renewable energy and sustainable alternatives.

In her September 20 presentation, Kitisya highlighted the moral duty of religious groups to protect creation, referencing the biblical call to care for the earth and the vulnerable.

Credit: ACI Africa

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“The impacts of climate change are tearing apart ecosystems and threatening the very survival of our planet. As people of faith, we have a moral duty to protect God's creation,” she said during the event that had Catholic, Anglican, Muslim, and Hare Krishna representatives in attendance.

Kitisya said that the involvement of faith-based groups in global climate discussions is vital to advancing climate justice and holding governments accountable for the urgent need for a fossil fuel phase-out.

She highlighted some milestones worldwide in the realization of the treaty since its inception. “Over 3,000 faith leaders, civil society organizations, and scientists have endorsed the treaty, recognizing that a global crisis requires a global response,” she said.

Credit: ACI Africa

The Kenyan LSM official said that some cities and municipalities in Africa including Lilongwe in Malawi have declared their support for the treaty, taking action at the local level to transition away from fossil fuels.

“In international spaces, faith-based organizations are playing an increasing role, advocating for climate justice and pushing for governments to adopt this treaty,” she said, and added, “Our voices are being heard in the halls of power, reminding leaders that climate action is not just a political or economic issue but a moral one.”

She lauded the Catholic Church, under the leadership of Pope Francis, for being vocal in calling for a phase-out of fossil fuels, aligning “this stance with broader religious values of stewardship and compassion.”

Silas Mwale Isenjia is a Kenyan journalist with a great zeal and interest for Catholic Church related communication. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Linguistics, Media and Communication from Moi University in Kenya. Silas has vast experience in the Media production industry. He currently works as a Journalist for ACI Africa.