The 2024 Kenya-Ethiopia Annual Conference, held at Trinity United Methodist Church in Naivasha on Aug. 22-25, brought together delegates and distinguished guests from, Burundi, Uganda and Zimbabwe. Under the theme, “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalms 46:10), the conference focused on reconciliation, unity and the future growth of the church.
The gathering was officiated by Bishop Daniel Wandabula, who opened the sixth annual conference session with reflections on past conflicts within the church, urging delegates to focus on reconciliation and hard work. He addressed critical issues stemming from the 2020 postponed General Conference, highlighting the regionalization legislation and the amendments made to the Book of Discipline regarding the removal of harmful language. Bishop Wandabula emphasized that regionalization would provide more power and freedom, allowing ministries to engage people in their unique cultural contexts.
In his address, Bishop Wandabula expressed his satisfaction with the United Methodist Board of Global Ministries’ renewed commitment, saying, “I am pleased with GBGM’s dedication to strengthening our partnership with the East Africa Episcopal Area. Their renewed focus on missionaries, humanitarian aid, agriculture, global health and church revitalization underscores our collective mission. Moreover, the appointment of the missionary treasurer and the Rev. David Muwaya as a liaison between Global Ministries and the East Africa Episcopal Area will further enhance our collaborative efforts.”
The Rev. Paul Matheri, the dean of superintendents, provided an update on the life and future of the church within the Kenya-Ethiopia Annual Conference. He encouraged delegates to stand in unity to preach the Gospel, reinforcing the importance of collective effort in ministry.
Key discussions and speeches
Throughout the conference, speakers addressed various topics vital to the growth and stability of the church and its communities. The Rev. Dr. Emanuel Sinzohagera, dean of the Burundi Conference, read from Deuteronomy 28:12, focusing on the Kenyan economy and the importance of prayer for the nation’s peace and stability. He called upon all delegates to pray for Kenya’s economic recovery.
The Rev Lazare Bankurunaze from the Burundi Annual Conference emphasized the need for peaceful coexistence among nations. In his sermon, he underscored the importance of knowing God, using the story of the blind man from Mark 10:46-52 as an example of faith and healing.
Priscilla Muzerengwa, field project manager at United Methodist Communications, highlighted the crucial role of communication within the church. “Effective communication is the lifeblood of church ministry,” she stated, stressing that it enables members to build trust, foster community and align with the church’s mission. She urged communicators to report effectively for the benefit of the church both locally and globally.
Conference outcomes and initiatives
The conference celebrated the creation of a new episcopal area in Burundi and the establishment of the East Africa Central (Regional) Conference. Delegates were encouraged to pray for these new developments as they represent significant milestones in the growth of the church.
The Rev David Muwaya from the Uganda-South Sudan Annual Conference discussed the Yambasu Agriculture Initiative, a farming project aimed at community development. He emphasized transparency, stewardship, and ethical management, acknowledging the Kenya-Ethiopia Conference for its commitment to the initiative’s strategic plan.
Budget and attendance growth
The conference passed a new budget of Kshs. 40,000,000 ($310,077.52 USD) for the upcoming year, a significant increase from the previous year’s budget of Kshs. 5,576,800 ($48,705.68 USD). This budget reflects the church’s commitment to expanding its ministries and initiatives in the region.
The Kenya-Ethiopia Annual Conference also reported growth in worship attendance, and church school attendance. Membership now stands at 17,795, down from 22,967 the previous year, with worship attendance reaching 16,995, up from 15,556. Additionally, the number of adults and young adults in small groups increased to 5,829, demonstrating the church’s continued focus on community engagement and spiritual growth.
Looking ahead
As the conference concluded, Bishop Wandabula reminded delegates of the importance of unity and cultural diversity within The United Methodist Church. He stated, “Through regionalization, we celebrate our unity as United Methodists, while respecting our cultural diversity. This path allows us to stay true to our shared mission, ensuring that we continue to be one church, globally united in faith and purpose.”
The Kenya-Ethiopia Annual Conference ended on a hopeful note, with resolutions to work and partner with other conferences to foster unity and growth, ensuring that the church remains a vibrant and integral part of the global community.
- Bernard Amani Mudiri, communications director for Kenya-Ethiopia Conference