From July 14th to 19th, 2025, the Catholic Diocese of Nakuru hosted a profoundly transformative Safeguarding Training, Toward a safer church at St. Mary’s Pastoral Centre, facilitated by the Jesuit Conference of Africa and Madagascar (JCSA). Sixteen participants, including priests, religious, and other pastoral agents, came together to deepen their understanding of safeguarding and commit to fostering a Church environment that is safe, accountable, and healing for all.
The training began with strong affirmations of purpose. In the opening remarks, Fr. Binamungu SJ set the tone by reminding the group that safeguarding is not just a requirement of modern pastoral ministry, but a Gospel imperative. Later that day, Fr. JB offered a compelling address entitled “Clothed in Care,” in which he used African proverbs and cultural imagery to illustrate the pastoral responsibility of care. His reflections, especially the symbolism of clothing as a form of protection and dignity, became a powerful metaphor throughout the week.
One of the key themes of the training was the relationship between culture and safeguarding. Participants explored how local customs and traditional beliefs both support and complicate efforts to protect children and vulnerable adults. Rich discussions emerged on how deeply rooted gender roles and norms can pose challenges, particularly when cultural practices conflict with universal safeguarding principles. Yet, there was a palpable sense of shared optimism as participants considered how cultural strengths—such as community responsibility and respect for elders—could be leveraged to reinforce protection and accountability in pastoral life.
Legal frameworks also played a prominent role in the program. Participants were guided through relevant civil laws and Church statutes that govern safeguarding, gaining clarity on policies that protect the vulnerable. A highlight of the training was the presence of Rt. Rev. Cleophas Oseso Tuka, Bishop of Nakuru, personally addressed the group. His commendation of the initiative, expression of appreciation to Hekima University College and JCSA, and emphasis on the urgency of finalising the Diocese’s safeguarding policy served as a strong reminder that leadership support is crucial in institutionalising safeguarding measures at all levels.
Canon Law, especially the revised Book VI of the 2021 Code of Canon Law, was unpacked in depth by Sr. Catherine Nzwili. She emphasized that safeguarding is not the isolated duty of a few offices but a shared responsibility of all the faithful. The session clarified key aspects, including the obligation to report abuse, the roles of lay pastoral agents, and the Church’s evolving penal procedures. Sr. Catherine’s contribution reinforced the Church’s zero-tolerance stance on abuse, echoing the commitment of Pope Francis and his predecessors.
A key aspect of the training was the incorporation of trauma-informed approaches. A session on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) offered sobering insights into how early trauma can shape individuals’ development and increase vulnerability. This understanding is crucial for clergy and pastoral workers, who are often the initial point of contact for individuals suffering in silence. The importance of empathy, listening, and building safe environments was underscored. This was followed by a hands-on session on policy development, where participants critically reviewed the current diocesan safeguarding policy and suggested improvements. The process helped demystify safeguarding documentation and empowered participants to contribute meaningfully to policy enhancement.
The training concluded with a practical and empowering Training of Trainers (ToT) module. Each participant delivered a short presentation on a safeguarding topic, receiving supportive feedback from peers. This exercise helped build facilitation skills and encouraged ownership of the material. In the final session, participants broke into teams to develop concrete action plans for key sectors, including parish life, education, health, and diocesan management. These action plans will be submitted to the Bishop and will be monitored through a WhatsApp group designed to ensure real-time accountability and collaboration. JCSA is committed to providing continuous support throughout the implementation and follow-up process.
This Safeguarding Training marks a pivotal moment for the Diocese of Nakuru. More than a capacity-building exercise, it was a collective reaffirmation of the Church’s mission to protect the dignity of every person, especially the most vulnerable. The week combined theological insight, legal clarity, cultural sensitivity, and practical tools, such as the hands-on session on policy development, to create a holistic approach to safeguarding.
As participants return to their parishes and institutions, they do so with a renewed sense of responsibility and vision. The message is clear: safeguarding is not just about rules or policies—it is about people, relationships, and living out the Gospel through justice and compassion.
JCSA remains deeply committed to walking alongside the Diocese in this journey, providing continuous support through training, policy development, and ongoing accompaniment, ensuring that the mission of safeguarding is upheld.
Asante Sana and Blessings from CDN!
