Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has urged young people to reject violence, tribalism and divisive politics, warning that peace remains the most valuable foundation for development and prosperity.
Speaking during the opening of the 21st Plenary Assembly of the Association of Member Episcopal Conferences in Eastern Africa (AMECEA) in Nairobi, Mudavadi challenged the Catholic Church to strengthen its peacebuilding role while encouraging young people to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) and digital opportunities responsibly.
Addressing bishops from across Eastern Africa, Mudavadi said elections should never come at the expense of national unity and the lives of young people.
"I call upon our young people in Kenya and across the region to reject violence, divisive politics, and tribalism. No young and promising life should be sacrificed for political expedience. Elections will come and go, but our nation's unity, stability, and future must endure for generations to come," he said.
The Prime Cabinet Secretary described the Church as a trusted partner in promoting reconciliation across Africa, noting its contribution to peace initiatives in countries such as South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
"The Catholic Church remains a trusted actor in peace building across Africa," he said, urging religious leaders to continue mobilising support for conflict-affected communities, particularly in Sudan, where millions have been displaced by war.
Mudavadi also challenged young people to use technology positively, saying AI presents enormous opportunities but requires responsible online conduct.
"I encourage the youth to embrace digital technology and be our champions in AI innovation," he said.
At the same time, he cautioned that irresponsible social media activity could have lasting consequences.
"Please, you could lose your scholarship. You could lose your opportunity elsewhere," Mudavadi warned, adding that even a young African referee had recently missed an opportunity to officiate at the FIFA World Cup because of "undesirable content" on his social media platforms.
He further encouraged young people to remain disciplined and patient as they pursue leadership and career opportunities.
"You can do it. It's not impossible for the young people. You can do it. Remain focused. Remain disciplined. Consult widely," he said.
Mudavadi also posed a challenge to delegates on the true value of peace, arguing that economic progress cannot be sustained without stability.
"What is the economic value of peace?" he asked. "Even the most beautiful airports have become ghost buildings... because one critical ingredient is missing—peace."
Calling on the Church to expand its diplomatic and reconciliation efforts, Mudavadi urged bishops to "open the back channels" and engage parties involved in conflicts across the region.
"Talk to the warring and conflicting parties. Get them to sit under the same table and stop the violence. We rely on you. We depend on you. We cannot operate without you," he said.
He said the government remains committed to working closely with the Catholic Church in promoting peace, justice, good governance and opportunities for young people across Kenya and the wider Eastern African region.