Speaker Wetang’ula: “strong families are Africa’s greatest investment”

Boma Inn Hotel, Nairobi 
Wednesday 14th May, 2025 

National Assembly Speaker Rt. Hon. Dr. Moses Wetang’ula has called for Pan-African unity to protect the continent’s family values, which he described as the cornerstone of African identity and prosperity.

In remarks delivered on his behalf by Homa Bay Town MP, Hon. Peter Kaluma at the 2nd Pan-African Conference on Family Values held at the Boma Inn Hotel in Nairobi, Speaker Wetang’ula urged African nations to stand together in defending the traditional family unit from growing ideological threats.

Addressing a diverse audience of legislators, religious leaders, civil society representatives, and international delegates from Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific, Hon. Kaluma stressed the vital role of families in fostering social cohesion and national stability.

Quoting Pope John Paul II, Dr. Wetang’ula affirmed, “As the family goes, so goes the nation, and so goes the whole world in which we live.”

He commended the African Christian Professionals Forum (ACPF) for hosting a crucial platform for defending family values, safeguarding religious freedom, and protecting African sovereignty amid shifting global ideologies.

“The family is the cradle where values are instilled, character is shaped, and identity is nurtured. Our history, culture, and faith affirm its role in national development and in preserving our generational legacy.” Dr Wetang'ula said.

With mounting cultural, ideological, and technological pressures confronting the continent, the Speaker warned of aggressive foreign influences that threaten to erode Africa’s moral fabric. 

He called for a united front to protect the continent’s social foundations.

“We are living in an age of rapid change, accompanied by unprecedented challenges. But there is hope, our societies still hold fast to principles that are not relics of the past, but pillars of our nations.” he said.

In his Speech, Dr. Wetang’ula also highlighted the economic importance of strong families, noting that they serve not only as social units but also as engines of national development.

“Families raise future citizens, provide essential support systems, and promote a strong work ethic. Upholding family values is both a moral duty and a smart economic investment,” he added.

The Speaker reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to protecting families through constitutional and policy frameworks. He indicated that Article 45 of the Constitution recognized the family as the foundation of society, a principle he said is reflected in various government and faith-based initiatives promoting family cohesion and positive parenting.

Dr. Wetang’ula further lauded Parliament’s recent efforts, including the passage of the Social Protection Bill, 2025. 

Spearheaded by the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Social Protection, the Bill seeks to safeguard vulnerable families from economic shocks.

“We are working to create laws that strengthen families and foster environments where children can thrive,” he emphasized.

On the other hand, Hon. Kaluma’s remarks following the Speaker’s address highlighted the ongoing ideological struggle at home.

“Defending the family unit in Kenya is no easy task. We applaud the organizers of this conference for their courage and persistence.” said Hon. Kaluma.

He warned of well-organized efforts to undermine traditional African values, pointing to a recent LGBTQ+ conference held in Mombasa Kenya that, according to him, promoted abortion and same-sex rights. 

“These groups are already lobbying for legislation that would legalize abortion and same-sex relations in Kenya,” Kaluma warned. 

He accused foreign entities of using ideological and financial leverage to promote radical agendas, referencing a tense exchange with Western ambassadors in Parliament.

“They questioned our push for the Family Protection Bill, I asked them to explain their double standards, given that some of the practices they support abroad are outlawed in their own countries. There’s a great deal of hypocrisy,” he revealed.

Kaluma praised Kenya’s leadership, including President William Ruto and Speaker Wetang’ula, for backing the Family Protection Bill and expressed optimism that the initiative would gain traction despite resistance.

“We are making progress, but we need your support. There’s a lot of noise out there. These groups are even recruiting University Students.” he said.

He pledged to convene a Parliamentary Forum in collaboration with ACPF and other stakeholders to engage MPs who support family values but may lack a clear strategy.

Hon. Kaluma also ventured into political territory, linking global politics to Africa’s values debate. “We thank the American people for not re-electing the Democratic candidate. We hope to see more Republicans win in future elections. The election of President Trump meant a lot to us,” he said.

He acknowledged the contributions of the U.S., particularly in supporting HIV programs in Kenya, but emphasized that partnerships must be based on mutual respect for African values.

As the conference continues, delegates are expected to develop practical strategies to protect the family unit and build a united continental front against cultural erosion.

In his closing message, Dr. Wetang’ula encouraged participants to go beyond conference resolutions and embrace a renewed commitment to championing African values globally.

“Let this Pan-African movement for family values be a beacon of hope, not just for Africa, but for the world, by protecting our families, we are securing our future.” he said.

Now in its second edition, the Pan-African Conference on Family Values builds on the momentum of the inaugural Regional Family Conference held in May 2023, and seeks to establish a strong alliance to safeguard the sanctity and strength of the African family.