President Ruto to Host Quakers Church Delegation at State House

President William Ruto has invited a national delegation of the Quakers Church in Kenya to visit the State House, marking a significant gesture of engagement with the ethics-driven religious group. This outreach follows a first-of-its-kind meeting between the Kenyan leader and the Quaker community, highlighting the group’s influence and moral standing in the country.

Quakerism in Kenya traces its origins to 1902 with the arrival of three American missionaries—Willis R. Hotchkiss, Arthur B. Chilson, and Edgar T. Hole. Sent by the Friends Africa Industrial Mission from Ohio, they established the first permanent Quaker station in the Kaimosi Forest of Western Kenya. Today, Kenya hosts the largest concentration of Quakers globally, with an estimated membership of over 150,000 followers.

The Quakers, officially known as the Religious Society of Friends, are an offshoot of the Church of England. Founded in the 17th century by George Fox, the group broke away from Anglican practices he deemed contradictory to biblical teachings, such as the consumption of alcohol. Fox, who had reservations about the Church of England since age 12, formally established the Religious Society of Friends in 1647 at the age of 23.

The Quaker faith is built on six core principles known as SPICES: Simplicity, Peace, Integrity, Community, Equality, and Stewardship. These values have guided the group’s ethical stance and public witness throughout its history. Adherents are known for their unwavering commitment to these virtues, which have led them to advocate for human rights, social justice, and moral integrity in all aspects of life.

The Quakers’ dedication to these principles has often placed them at odds with societal norms, resulting in persecution for their beliefs. One notable incident involved George Fox, who, while in court, reportedly quaked whenever the name of God was mentioned, leading to the group’s enduring nickname, “Quakers.”

The Quakers are known for their fearless advocacy of rights, freedoms, and liberties for all individuals. They adhere strictly to the teachings of Jesus Christ, rejecting corruption, exploitation, and dishonesty. Their commitment to these values has earned them a respected position on the global stage.

The Quakers hold the General Consultative Status at the United Nations through the Friends World Committee for Consultation (FWCC), their global umbrella body. This status, the highest level of accreditation for non-governmental organizations, allows them to operate official representation offices. They maintain a presence through the Quaker United Nations Office (QUNO), with offices in Geneva and New York City. Quaker Houses near UN headquarters provide informal meeting spaces for diplomats, staff, and experts to engage in quiet dialogue and consensus-building.

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