Former NFL star and renowned American motivational speaker Rickey Allen Bolden is set to headline Kenya’s 22nd Annual National Prayer Breakfast on Wednesday, May 28, at Safari Park Hotel, Nairobi.
The high-profile annual event organized by the bicameral parliament of Kenya through its National Assembly and Senate has grown into a significant national platform for reflection, unity, and prayer, bringing together the country’s top leadership, MPs, diplomats, religious leaders, and invited guests from across the globe.
This year’s edition, themed “Rise and Shine”, draws inspiration from Isaiah 60:1, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you.”
National Assembly Speaker Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Moses Wetang’ula, who serves as the co-patron of the Kenya National Prayer Breakfast, has extended an open invitation to all Kenyans to attend the 22nd Annual National Prayer Breakfast scheduled for tomorrow at the Safari Park Hotel in Nairobi.
“I welcome all Kenyans to gather at Safari Park Hotel to pray for our country and for themselves,” Speaker Wetang’ula said in his communication to the House.
The event comes at a time when the country is grappling with economic challenges, political tension, and rising youth unrest.
Bolden, a former Miami Dolphins player whose promising NFL career was cut short by injury, later became a globally sought-after pastor based in Dallas, Texas.
Known for his compelling storytelling and messages of faith, leadership, and moral courage, Bolden will deliver the keynote address.
“I am deeply honored to be part of this important occasion,” Bolden said ahead of his visit. “Kenya stands at a historic juncture. This gathering is a divine opportunity to rise from complacency and shine with purpose and compassion.”
Senate Speaker Rt. Hon. Amason Jeffah Kingi, speaking during a preparatory session on Tuesday, said the event offers more than prayer; it is a national call to action.
“Rise and Rebuild is not just a theme; it is a vision,” said Kingi. “A vision that urges us to rise above political polarization, rebuild trust in our institutions, revive our economy, and restore hope in our people. The time to rise is now.”
“The future we seek is within our grasp; if we choose unity over division, hope over despair, and action over apathy,” he added.
Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo, Chairperson of the National Prayer Breakfast Committee, echoed the sentiment, calling the event a moment for national introspection.
“Rise and Shine captures where we are as a country; a call to unity, faith, and forward-looking leadership,” said Maanzo. “Mr. Bolden’s journey from the NFL to the pulpit is a story of resilience and purpose; qualities Kenya urgently needs today.”
Co-Chairs of the Parliamentary Christian Women Caucus, Marsabit Women representative Hon. Naomi Waqo (Deputy Majority Whip) and nominated Senator Veronica Maina, urged Kenyan women to take a leading role in praying for the nation’s healing and prosperity.
“We are what we are today because of the Lord,” said Hon. Waqo. “As women, we must ask ourselves: What role can we play in rebuilding our nation?”
Senator Maina stressed the spiritual power women wield. “When women pray, things move. It is not business as usual. When women prayed in 2022, we had a peaceful election and a smooth transition,” she said.
Nigerian preacher and Founder of the People of Influence Network, Apostle Isi Igenegba, challenged Kenyan leaders to embrace a paradigm shift, make tough decisions, and commit to rebuilding the nation.
On her part, Cabinet Secretary for Lands, Housing and Urban Development Hon. Alice Wahome, a former MP, called on women leaders to rise above party lines and work together to improve livelihoods.
Reflecting Kenya’s religious diversity, tomorrow’s event will feature prayers and scripture readings from multiple faiths. Kamukunji MP Hon. Yusuf Hassan is expected to read from the Holy Quran, Sujantha Kotamraju from the Hindu Vedas, and Mbeere South MP Eng. Benard Muriuki will lead a prayer for Africa.
South Mugirango MP and National Assembly Majority Whip Silvanus Osoro will lead the Parliamentary Choir in the popular hymn “My Hands Are Blessed.”
The event’s interfaith and bipartisan nature has in the past served as a unifying force; offering moments of calm amid political turbulence.
Last year’s edition saw President William Ruto, then-Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, opposition leader Raila Odinga, Chief Justice Martha Koome, and other senior figures share a moment of collective prayer for the nation.
It remains to be seen whether this year’s event will draw a similarly high-powered gathering, given the simmering tensions between government and opposition forces.
The Prayer Breakfast comes slightly over year after nationwide Gen Z-led protests against the proposed 2024 Finance Bill and growing discontent over unemployment and rising living costs.
Organizers say this year’s theme is timely, offering a chance to seek divine guidance and moral clarity on the nation’s direction.
“This is not just about politics; it’s about purpose,” said Senator Maanzo. “It’s a moment for the country to pause, pray, and reset.”
Beyond Bolden’s keynote, the breakfast will feature reflections on pressing national issues including youth empowerment, corruption, mental health, climate change, and social justice.
The breakfast begins at 7:00 a.m. and will be broadcast live on major television and digital platforms to ensure wider public participation.
Written by Hillary Henry Mageka.
