A section of the clergy has expressed concern over what they describe as an increasing prevalence of same-sex relationships among young people, warning that the trend could have far-reaching social consequences if not addressed early.
Speaking during a Thanksgiving service at Thika AP Chapel, church leaders led by Archbishop Dr. David Gatimu said they are witnessing a growing number of youths openly engaging in same-sex relationships, a development they believe signals a worrying shift in moral values.
Archbishop Gatimu told congregants that public displays of affection among some young people have become more common, a trend he said raises questions about the guidance and influences shaping the younger generation.
According to the retired Administration Police chaplain, the behaviour is particularly visible among students in learning institutions, where he said peer pressure, social media, and external cultural influences are increasingly affecting young people’s choices.
He cautioned that the trend could have implications for the future stability of families, urging the youth to reflect carefully on their decisions and embrace relationships that align with what he described as traditional family values between a man and a woman.
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“Many young people may not be considering the long-term consequences of the choices they are making,” Gatimu said. “As a society, we must guide them to make decisions that will build stable families and secure the future of our communities.”
Church leaders also warned that the issue is beginning to affect the learning environment in schools and institutions of higher education.
According to the clergy, some students become deeply involved in relationships while still in school, which may distract them from their academic responsibilities. They said such relationships can sometimes lead to emotional stress, conflicts among students, and declining concentration in class.
Gatimu noted that some cases reportedly begin in secondary schools and later intensify when students join universities and colleges, where they enjoy greater independence and less parental supervision.
“Education should remain the primary focus for students at this stage of their lives,” he said. “When young people become consumed by relationships and social pressures, their academic performance and future opportunities can be negatively affected.”
He called on school administrators, teachers, and parents to strengthen mentorship programs and counselling services to help students remain focused on their studies.
Church elder Esther Wanjiku echoed the concerns, linking the issue partly to challenges within family structures.
Wanjiku observed that children raised in homes marked by frequent conflict or emotional instability may sometimes seek acceptance and comfort in unhealthy ways, making them vulnerable to peer influence.
She also expressed concern about the growing openness of same-sex public displays of affection, saying such behaviour is increasingly visible in public spaces and among young people.
“I find it deeply troubling that these actions are becoming more common,” she said. “It suggests that respect for community values is slowly eroding.”
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The church leaders further cautioned youth against being lured by promises of financial support allegedly associated with foreign organizations that they claimed promote such lifestyles.
Instead, Wanjiku urged young people to focus on education, hard work, and building productive livelihoods that will benefit their future.
The clergy also raised concern over the role of digital platforms, warning that unrestricted internet access may expose young people to content that shapes their behaviour and attitudes.
They urged parents to be more vigilant about their children’s online activities and to engage them in open discussions about responsible use of technology.
The church leaders called on the government, educational institutions, parents, and religious organizations to work together to strengthen moral guidance for young people.
They emphasized the need for mentorship programs, counselling services in schools, and community support systems that can help students stay focused on their education and future careers.
“Protecting our young people requires a collective effort,” Gatimu said. “If we guide them well today, we will secure a stronger and more responsible generation tomorrow.”
By Felix Wanderi
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