By M, KNA
The Police department in Kirinyaga has started to construct a multipurpose sanctuary designed for worship space and flexible facilities to cater a variety of police needs including church activities aimed at enhancing mental wellness.
The project under construction inside county police headquarters in Kerugoya adjacent to the site earmarked for police affordable housing units.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony, Kirinyaga County Police Commander, Nelson Taliti, revealed that after consultation with the local chaplain they agreed to fundraise to build their own place of worship with support from the community, with the initial fundraiser managing to raise over Sh. 800,000 for the project.
“The officers and the community can contribute even a little. If we build a church here, we’ll have our own place to meet and even when we have our gatherings we can hold them there.”
The commander also noted the church will help in dealing with cases of mental health within the police service in addition to providing a space for outside professionals to come and share or interact with the officers and the surrounding community.
“We have challenges with mental health among our officers. When we invite professionals to talk to them, they could use that church space. This church will also help strengthen community policing, because when community members come to worship together with us, we will build rapport and safety.”
He said the project will start immediately with collaboration with the state department of correctional services which will be tasked to provide professional manpower.
“We agreed to use prison labor instead of hiring casual workers.”
Zachary Muchai, bishop emeritus PEFA church, who led ground said the role of the church goes beyond counselling and will help many officers in terms of mental health.
“Sometimes people go for counselling and it reaches a point where we feel like we have done all we can. But we believe there is another level of healing that comes through prayer. We pray for them and ensure that they are delivered from their habits, from whatever issues they may be facing even from drinking.”
He noted the importance of the initiative, as it will bring hope, strength, and transformation not only to the body and mind but also to the soul in the service.