The National Association of Christian Chaplains has raised concerns over increased moral decay in learning institutions across the country and the society at large.
The association pointed out a worrying trend in increased drugs and substance abuse as one factor that has largely contributed to degredation of moral values within the society.
Speaking in Mombasa during the Annual National Association of Christian Chaplains Conference, the assocition secretary Reverend John Gaturo warned those operating bars and wines and spirits outlets near learning institutions and public transport boarding points to decease from doing so.
"The issue of drugs and substance abuse is really a big issue. It is worrying to see alcohol being sold and served in public spaces like bus stops where children are watching"
"We want to encourage everyone to join forces to fight this vice because it has now gotten in to our schools," said Gaturo.
Reverend Gaturo pointed out that the sexualisation of the society has led to children embracing charactaristics that go against the moral fabric of African values within the society.
"We need to legislate against vartues and values that go against our religious and African values," he said.
He also urged the government to put more resources on issues that provide psychosocial support noting that mental issue continues to be a challenge in the country that has in recent days witnessed increased cases of femicides, suicides and murders.
"We offer chaplaincy as one of the options that the government can consider alongside counselling as a key component in dealing with mental and stress issues. We pray and hope this will be done quickly," Gaturo said.
Gaturo further urged the government to support chaplaincy to deal with morality in schools saying morality in learning institutions has for long been ignored.
He at the same time lauded the government for the effort made in coming up with a policy guidline on chaplaincy calling on the process to be expedited so that the policy can be in place as soon as possible.
"We are also happy with the government implementing the new Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) because it is inculcating values and helps children become critical thinkers," he said.
