The Archbishop of Canterbury has spent the day in Kenya as he concludes his visit to a number of  countries in the region. He met the Primate of the Anglican Church of Kenya, Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit, who was elected last year as well as provincial staff. He also met the Chair of CAPA (the Council of Anglican Provinces of Africa), Archbishop Albert Chama; themes under discussion included the drought situation in Kenya, strife in South Sudan and radicalisation of youths in the region. Archbishop Justin then visited the All Saints Cathedral in Nairobi where he was briefed on preparations for centenary celebrations later this year. Archbishop Justin and Mrs Welby then spent time with the Primate at his official residence.

Archbishop Jackson showing Archbishop Justin his vegetable garden

Caroline Welby with the wife of Archbishop Jackson Mrs Esther Naserian

They had travelled to Kenya from the Democratic Republic of Congo after previously visiting Rwanda and Burundi over the weekend. In many places they were welcomed by local members of the Mothers’ Union.

Students of the Anglican Theological College in Kigali Rwanda

In each of the four countries Archbishop Justin asked each Primate their prayer intentions for themselves and their Province.

Archbishop Jackson said his prayer requests were: for “clarity of thought” as he leads his diocese and for God’s wisdom to pull the church together “so that the House of Bishops can move together as a team and be united.” Archbishop Jackson said with this being an election year, prayers were needed for peace in Kenya. He also asked for prayers that striking doctors and their employers could reach a solution and for prayers for the parts of Kenya affected by drought and for all those who were suffering -  that “the Lord will help us support those who are less fortunate.”

Archbishop Justin and Caroline waiting to board a MAF plan from Kigali to Goma