The church must be accountable to transform our Kenyan society

Two days ago, I completed an intensive leadership training by Living on the Edge on The Art of Survival – Becoming a Romans 12 Christian. The key lesson? Transformation starts with individuals who renew their minds and reject the broken systems.

This made me reflect - with millions of followers and vast resources, why hasn’t the church transformed Kenya? I present the following seven pillars as a call for deep reflection and bold action - because while the church holds immense power, something is still amiss.

First, according to reliable sources, the church wields immense influence in Kenya. Christianity dominates the nation’s spiritual and social landscape, with millions of followers across different denominations. The Anglican Church has around 5 million members, Africa Inland Church 7 million, the Catholic Church 12 million, and Evangelical Churches about 10 million under the Evangelical Alliance of Kenya (EAK). Churches are also economic powerhouses.

Having served under the Finance and Administration Committee of NCCK, I have firsthand knowledge that NCCK churches alone collect approximately Sh2 billion every Sunday in offerings and tithes, more than some county governments generate in a month. Despite this influence, Kenya still struggles with corruption, weak institutions, and poor leadership. Why?

Second, imagine what would happen if churches disappeared overnight. The church is more than a place of worship - it is a pillar of Kenya’s essential services. The Catholic Church alone manages over 7,000 schools, providing education to millions. Other denominations run thousands more. Without these institutions, countless children would be denied an education and forced into poverty.

The healthcare sector would crumble, as the Catholic Church alone operates 35 per cent of Kenya’s healthcare facilities. Mission hospitals serve millions, particularly in underserved areas, while churches also run orphanages, rehabilitation centres, feeding programmes, and relief initiatives. Without these institutions, wouldn’t Kenya be paralysed?

Third, despite its power, the church has failed to transform society due to lack of transparency and accountability. With billions collected every Sunday, where does it all go?

Leviticus 25:35-37 forbids charging interest to those in need, a principle embraced by Sharia banking - so why hasn’t the church followed suit? If implemented, wouldn’t this system provide interest-free loans to struggling members, empowering them to grow businesses, educate their children, and uplift their families? Instead of driving transformation, hasn’t the church become just another institution, collecting money without clear reinvestment in its people?

Fourth, the church faces a leadership crisis. Many leaders avoid accountability yet expect politicians to uphold integrity. How can church leaders who evade paying their personal taxes demand transparency from government? How can they expect politicians to be accountable when they fail to manage their individual finances? Real societal change must start with church leaders. Before calling for leadership transformation in government, church leaders must set their own house in order. If faith leaders led by example, wouldn’t politicians follow?

Fifth, when the church speaks out, it faces hostility. Last evening, Bishop Anthony Muheria called for political accountability, yet instead of reflection, politicians dismissed him. This reaction highlights the church’s weakened moral authority. If it had upheld its influence and honour, no leader would dare respond with contempt. Do you agree that the church must reclaim its moral standing away from any entanglements?

Sixth, the church must return to honour by embracing meritocracy and accountability. Leaders should be chosen for integrity and service, not just charisma. Financial transparency is essential - congregants deserve to know how tithes are used. Instead of merely collecting money, shouldn’t the church empower members through education, financial literacy, and economic opportunities?

Finally, it demands a crucial question - are our church leaders still relevant? If they were, would Kenya be where it is today? The church must first fix itself to lead the nation. Honour must be restored through integrity, accountability and service. This is a call to reflect and act - the time for change is now. Need I say more? Think green, act green!