A section of clergy leaders has raised concern over what they describe as an increasing trend of same-sex relationships among young people, warning that the issue could have long-term effects on society if not addressed.
The leaders spoke during a thanksgiving service held at the Thika AP Chapel where they urged families, schools and religious institutions to take a more active role in guiding young people.
Led by Archbishop David Gatimu, the clergy said they were concerned by what they termed as growing public displays of affection among some same-sex youth.
According to Gatimu, the trend reflects what the church leaders believe is a worrying shift in societal values.
The archbishop warned that such relationships could influence young people’s ability to form stable families in the future.
He urged the youth to pursue relationships that align with what the church considers traditional family values.
Gatimu also challenged young people engaging in such relationships to reflect on the long-term implications of their decisions.
He argued that some individuals eventually abandon such relationships and later return to conventional partnerships after realizing the challenges involved.
During the event, the cleric called on parents, teachers and the church to work together in mentoring young people.
He said that peer pressure and changing cultural influences were increasingly shaping the behaviour and choices of many youths.
Church elder Esther Wanjiku echoed the concerns, saying that family environments also play a role in shaping young people’s behaviour.
According to Wanjiku, children raised in homes marked by constant conflict may struggle emotionally and could seek comfort or acceptance in ways that may lead them into risky decisions.
She further expressed concern about what she described as the growing normalisation of public displays of same-sex affection among young people.
Wanjiku said some youths may also be influenced by financial motivations, noting that a few may pursue relationships with wealthier partners in pursuit of a comfortable lifestyle instead of focusing on personal development.
The clergy also noted that the behaviour they are concerned about often begins during the high school years and may intensify when students transition to colleges and universities.
As a result, they called for stronger mentorship programmes and closer engagement with young people both at home and in educational institutions.
The church leaders also urged parents to monitor their children’s phone usage and online activities, warning that unrestricted internet access could expose them to harmful content.
They further appealed to the government to support initiatives aimed at strengthening family structures and guiding young people towards responsible life choices.
