ACK Diocese of Mbeere Explores Solar Energy Investments during Green Anglicans Day Celebrations.
The ACK Diocese of Mbeere is poised to delve into investments in solar energy production as it endeavours to promote the adoption of clean energy within communities in the region. This revelation emerged during the recently held Provincial Green Anglicans celebrations, hosted by the Diocese under the leadership of Rt. Rev. Dr. Moses Masamba.
With parts of Mbeere lying in semi-arid ecological zones, Bishop Dr. Masamba mentioned that the Diocese is exploring partnerships to facilitate its entry into renewable energy production, demonstrating the potential opportunities available in the sector. The Diocese has already allocated more than 20 acres of land for the installation of solar panels, with the Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KENGEN) committing to purchase the generated power. Additionally, the Diocese plans to plant trees on an additional 30 acres, primarily comprising fruit and indigenous species.
The celebrations were presided over by the Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Kenya, Dr. Jackson Ole Sapit. It attracted thousands of Christians, including elected officials and government leaders from the county. The Archbishop commended the Diocese for its proactive approach in highlighting opportunities within the green energy sector. He urged residents to embrace clean energy technologies to reduce the need for tree cutting for cooking purposes, thereby contributing to increased tree cover in the area. Dr. Sapit emphasized the importance of responsible use of natural resources, referencing sand harvesting in the region, stating, “God has given man the responsibility to produce enough for use but also to do so responsibly.” He also encouraged attendees to actively participate in tree-planting initiatives to enhance tree coverage across the country.
Bernard Orinda, Embu County Forest Conservator, represented the National Government at the event and praised the Church’s efforts to address climate change. He noted, “The Church’s initiative to involve young people in combating climate change through the Green Anglicans Movement is commendable.” Orinda emphasized the need for a collaborative approach from all stakeholders to provide solutions to the challenges posed by climate change.
Deputy Governor of Embu County, H.E Kinyua Mugo, represented the County government at the function. He expressed the county government’s eagerness to collaborate with the Church and other partners to help residents adapt to the effects of climate change and reduce vulnerability. Embu County Senator, Alexander Mundigi, echoed these sentiments.
The Green Anglicans is a celebrated in Kenya every 10th of October across the Anglican Church of Kenya. The day seeks to highlight the work of the Church in championing care for creation and encourage Christians to help fight off climate change. Over 400 Green Anglicans Champions in the Diocese were commissioned by the Archbishop during the event. The group was trained by the Anglican Development Services (ADS) Kenya under a climate action project funded by Bread for the World and the Archbishop of Canterbury.
Partners: Bread for the World, Archbishop of Canterbury Dan Church AID , Kenya Forestry Research Institute, County Government of Embu and Mwangaza Light.
