Interfaith Peace Road Sponsored By UPF-Kenya

Written by UPF-Africa

Saturday, October 5, 2019

Makindu, Kenya – UPF-Kenya Peace Road 2019 was held in partnership with the Makindu Sikh Temple to mark the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism. The Makindu Sikh Temple is a historical monument along the Kenyan railway, established in 1926 for Sikh railway workers. This temple is he one of the earliest temples in Kenya. This year, the Sikh community celebrated the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak in partnership with his UPF. A particular focus is on his interfaith approach, years before interfaith initiatives and peace ambassadors were conceived. This was done alongside the UPF's annual Peace Road, bringing an interfaith and universal flavor.

Makueni Governor Professor H.E. Kivutha Kibwana gathered hundreds of participants from all walks of life for the event. Makindu was feasted at a Sikh temple and the procession went to a mosque. At the mosque, a procession was greeted by Sheikh Ustad Firoze accompanied by chanting and drumming by madrasah youths. In mosques, interfaith prayers were offered and peace trees were planted. It was a memorable scene where interfaith issues took center stage. 

The procession rode from the mosque to the local Catholic parish. The catholic priest in charge was on hand to receive and greet the peace march directly to the Procathedral where interfaith prayers were recited before the participants planted trees on the grounds.The father in charge was a good example and planted the tree of peace.

Among the dignitaries honoring the event was Professor H.E. Kibtha Kibwana, Governor of Makueni State. Former Defense Secretary Jeremiah Kianga. Two members of parliament the honorables David Kalisi and Njell Kahang; Chairman of Makindu Temple Jagjit Ahluwalia; Sheikh Mohammad Khan Chairman of the Nairobi Council of Imams. UPF Chairman Durham Chugger. Many religious leaders from Sikh, Muslim, Hindu and Christian communities have formed an impressive interfaith forum.