WHY AFRICA'S SLUMS AND POOR COMMUNITIES NEED FULL-TIME, PAID SOCIAL WORKERS.

WHY AFRICA'S SLUMS AND POOR COMMUNITIES NEED FULL-TIME, PAID SOCIAL WORKERS. Not investing in Behavior change, character development, and training in resilience, Poverty Becomes a Permanent Cycle. Across Africa, millions of people live in informal settlements and in low income areas, impoverished and struggling to make ends meet. Professional Social Workers permanently assigned to poor communities and paid by governments or other agencies can really help those communities in many areas. Why Dedicated Social Workers Are Needed 1. Building resilience among children and young people. Many children in poor communities face hunger, cold, worn-out school uniforms, inadequate shoes, overcrowded housing, bedbugs, lice and other difficult conditions. Social Workers can help them: - Develop resilience and hope despite hardship. - Stay focused on education rather than shame. - Build confidence and healthy self-esteem. - Understand that today's struggles do not determine tomorrow's future. 2. Protecting teenage girls. Extreme poverty often pushes girls into transactional relationships to obtain sanitary pads, food, clothing, beauty products, school supplies, or basic necessities. Social Workers can: - Provide life-skills education. - Teach self-worth and long-term decision-making. - Connect vulnerable girls with available support services. - Reduce school dropouts, teenage pregnancies, and exploitation. Sometimes communities must view this period as a struggle for survival—a time to protect the future rather than seek short-term comforts that may create lifelong consequences. So girls should not be pressured too much. 3. Guiding boys away from crime. Many boys admire phones, better clothing, bikes, and other items they see with well to do boys but lack legitimate opportunities to obtain them. Social Workers help young men understand that lasting success comes through: - Education. - Vocational training. - Employment. - Entrepreneurship. - Honest work. This reduces theft, gang involvement, and other criminal behaviour. The boys should endure today's shame and lack to gain the glory that lies ahead as they do things right. 4. Preventing gender-based violence. Communities facing severe economic hardship often experience increased domestic violence and sexual violence. Social Workers can: -Teach respect for women and girls. - Promote healthy masculinity. - Encourage peaceful conflict resolution. - Strengthen family relationships. - Protect vulnerable women and children. Boys, young men and all men are trained that strong communities protect their women rather than exploit them.Women protect one another and the others. 5. Promoting community unity. Scarcity often creates jealousy, suspicion, and conflict. Social Workers encourage people to: -Celebrate the success of others. - Avoid stealing from neighbours. - Support one another. - Build trust within the community. 6. Resolving conflicts peacefully. Competition over limited resources frequently causes disputes. Social Workers are trained in mediation and can help: - Resolve family disagreements. - Address neighbourhood conflicts. - Reduce violence. - Promote peaceful coexistence. 7. Teaching emotional management. Rumours, misinformation, frustration, and anger can quickly lead to violence. Social Workers help residents: - Manage emotions. - Verify facts before acting. - Make informed decisions. - Solve problems calmly. 8. Strengthening relationships between police and communities. Some police officers may misunderstand the realities of extreme poverty and unconsciously judge people by their appearance. Old, shaggy clothes and tough faces are not mostly an indicator that the person is a criminal. Due diligence is needed. Social Workers can: - Help police understand community circumstances. - Improve communication between officers and residents. - Build trust. - Reduce unnecessary conflict. - Encourage community policing. 9. Encouraging mutual support. Even poor communities possess valuable resources when people work together. Social Workers can organize communities to: - Support children's education. - Assist sick neighbours. - Share food during emergencies. - Help vulnerable families. - Create savings and self-help groups. Small contributions from many families can transform lives. 10. Teaching civic responsibility. Social Workers educate communities on: - Reporting crime safely. - Respecting the law. - Community responsibility. - Leadership. - Good citizenship. - Soft skills needed for employment and social development. 11. Strengthening families. Many couples in poor communities struggle with financial pressure, conflict, and unstable relationships. Social Workers help them: - Improve communication. - Resolve disagreements. - Develop parenting skills. - Plan responsibly for their families. - Formalize marriages where appropriate and desired. - Create stable homes for children. 12. Building understanding across society. Social Workers also educate the wider public about poverty. When society understands the realities facing poor communities, people become more willing to: - Volunteer. - Donate. - Mentor. - Employ. - Advocate for better policies. - Support community development. -Breaking the Cycle of Poverty Without guidance, poverty often repeats itself across generations. A High-Value Investment. The salaries of professional Social Workers represent a small investment compared to the enormous social and economic benefits they generate, including: - Lower crime rates. - Reduced gender-based violence. - Improved school attendance. - Better mental health. - Stronger families. - Greater community cohesion. - Increased productivity. - Reduced dependence on long-term welfare. - Better cooperation with government institutions. - Healthier and more resilient communities. Conclusion. Africa's greatest resource is its people. Lasting development requires more than infrastructure and financial assistance—it requires investing in human behaviour, family stability, community resilience, and hope. By: Elijah Mutua Kirima Social Work department THE WORD OF GOD IS THE WILL OF GOD

FROM FUNDING TO TRANSFORMATION

FROM FUNDING TO TRANSFORMATION: Rethinking Development Support for Real Impact in Africa (Social Work Dpt Article) Challenges Towards the Intended Actual Outcome A large proportion of development resources is spent on administration before reaching intended beneficiaries. Excessive expenditure on conferences, workshops, travel, meetings, and consultations reduces resources available for direct community interventions. Government implementation structures sometimes become bureaucratic, slowing service delivery to local communities. In some cases, weak accountability and non-merit-based recruitment reduce the effectiveness of development programmes. Monitoring and evaluation may focus more on activities completed than on measurable improvements in people's lives. Research projects often conclude with reports and recommendations without sufficient implementation of the findings. Community leaders, volunteers, and social workers receive valuable training but often lack the resources needed to apply their knowledge. Poverty forces many trained community workers to prioritize personal survival over community service. Vulnerable households frequently receive advice and training but lack the practical support needed to improve their livelihoods. Many development projects end abruptly before stabilizing when donor funding expires, leaving communities unable to sustain the progress achieved. Causes of the Challenges High administrative and operational costs consume a significant share of development funding. Development models often prioritize planning, reporting, and compliance over practical implementation. Limited direct partnerships with accountable grassroots organizations reduce community-level impact. Insufficient funding is allocated for practical livelihood support such as startup capital, work tools, agricultural inputs, healthcare, and educational assistance. Weak monitoring systems sometimes fail to detect inefficiencies or misuse of resources. Success is frequently measured by outputs such as meetings held, reports produced, or people trained rather than long-term social and economic outcomes. Development programmes are sometimes designed without adequately considering the daily economic realities faced by community workers and beneficiaries. Short-term project cycles may not provide enough time to achieve sustainable change. Remedies Increase the proportion of development funding that reaches grassroots communities directly. Build long-term partnerships with transparent and accountable local organizations that have established trust within communities. Balance funding between administration, research, capacity building, and direct community investment. Ensure research findings are followed by adequately funded implementation programmes. Support trained community leaders with reasonable operational resources that enable them to serve effectively. Complement training with practical assistance such as startup capital, work tools, educational sponsorship, healthcare support, agricultural inputs, and market access where appropriate. Strengthen transparent monitoring and independent evaluation systems that measure real changes in people's lives. Promote merit-based recruitment, accountability, and responsible stewardship of development resources. Design programmes that gradually build community self-reliance and reduce long-term dependence on external assistance. Encourage continuous collaboration among governments, development partners, local organizations, and communities throughout the project cycle. Expected Outcomes More development resources reach vulnerable individuals and families. Increased employment opportunities through support for entrepreneurship, agriculture, and vocational skills. Improved household incomes and reduced poverty. More children remain in school through better educational support. Improved access to healthcare and better health outcomes. Stronger and more sustainable community organizations. Greater public confidence through transparency and accountability. Better value for money from development investments. Communities become increasingly capable of solving their own challenges. Long-term social and economic transformation across African communities. Conclusion Development assistance has transformed many lives across Africa and continues to play an important role in improving health, education, governance, and economic development. The commitment of foreign governments, international organizations, charitable foundations, and development partners deserves recognition and appreciation. However, achieving the intended impact requires ensuring that a greater proportion of available resources reaches the grassroots where poverty and vulnerability are experienced every day. Administration, research, planning, and training remain essential, but they should consistently lead to practical action that improves people's lives. The true success of development should not be measured by the number of workshops held, reports written, or policies developed. It should be measured by families escaping poverty, young people securing meaningful employment, children receiving quality education, farmers increasing their productivity, vulnerable people regaining dignity, and communities becoming self-reliant. When development resources consistently empower local people with both knowledge and practical support, assistance becomes more than funding—it becomes lasting transformation. By Elijah Mutua Kirima Social Worker Founder, THE WORD OF GOD IS THE WILL OF GOD July 10, 2026.

FIGHTING STATELESSNESS

FIGHTING STATELESSNESS Definition: Under international law, a stateless person is someone who is not recognized as a national by any country under the operation of its laws. Kenya's Progress in Ending Statelessness The Kenyan Government has taken significant steps to reduce statelessness by: Granting Kenyan citizenship to formerly stateless communities, including the Makonde, Shona, and Pemba. Committing to finalize the National Action Plan to Eradicate Statelessness and implement legal reforms in partnership with the UNHCR. Removing the long-standing vetting process for ethnic Somalis and related communities in northeastern Kenya, making it easier to obtain National Identity Cards. Continuing to review laws and policies to address emerging citizenship challenges. Did You Know? Children of Mixed Unions: A child born to one Kenyan citizen and one refugee or foreign parent is entitled to Kenyan citizenship by birth, regardless of where the child is born. Children of Non-Citizen Parents: A child born in Kenya to two refugee or foreign parents does not automatically become a Kenyan citizen. The child normally acquires the nationality of the parents but may later qualify for Kenyan citizenship through registration or naturalization under the law. Foundlings: A child under eight years of age found in Kenya whose parents and nationality are unknown is presumed to be a Kenyan citizen by birth. How Individuals and Local Organizations Can Help Ensure every child is registered at birth and receives a birth certificate as early as possible. Keep birth certificates, identity cards, and other registration documents safely, with both physical and digital copies. Seek assistance from Chiefs, Assistant Chiefs, and registration officers where documentation is missing or delayed. Educate parents and communities about the importance of birth registration and national identification. Help families understand registration procedures and connect them with the relevant government offices. Support vulnerable families with transport or other assistance to complete registration processes. Help applicants gather the required documents and refer complex cases to legal aid organizations. Assist older persons and persons with disabilities to obtain essential identity documents. Expand access to education and skills training so people understand their rights and responsibilities. Promote employment, business opportunities, and poverty reduction, enabling people to obtain and maintain legal documentation. Support displaced persons and refugees by helping them understand their legal rights and available services. Promote peace and the peaceful resolution of conflicts, since conflict, displacement, and war are major causes of statelessness. Ending statelessness is a shared responsibility. Through timely registration, legal documentation, public awareness, and peaceful communities, we can help ensure that every person has a legal identity, equal protection under the law, and full access to opportunities and public services. By Elijah Mutua Kirima. Trained Social Worker, Social Work Department THE WORD OF GOD IS THE WILL OF GOD July 9, 2026

MANIFESTO FOR A NEW KENYA. CIVIC EDUCATION.

MANIFESTO FOR A NEW KENYA - CIVIC EDUCATION "Opportunity, Justice, and Prosperity for Every Kenyan VISION A nation where every child has equal opportunity, every young person can find meaningful work, every family can afford quality healthcare, every business can thrive, and every citizen can trust that justice applies equally to all. A government that exist to serve all the people—not only the powerful. Core Values Integrity above personal interest. Equal opportunity for every Kenyan. Justice without favoritism. Hard work rewarded fairly. Responsible use of public resources. Unity without tribal discrimination. Sustainable development for future generations. 1. Jobs and Economic Growth Creating millions of decent jobs Make youth employment the number one national priority. Invest heavily in agriculture, manufacturing, technology, tourism, mining, fisheries, and the creative economy. Create industrial parks in every county. Support local industries before unnecessary imports. Give tax incentives to businesses that employ young people. Expand affordable business loans for youth, women, and persons with disabilities. Reduce unnecessary licenses and bureaucratic barriers to starting businesses. Invest massively in digital infrastructure to support innovation. 2. Agriculture A prosperous Kenya begins with prosperous farmers Guarantee timely access to affordable fertilizer and quality seeds. Improve irrigation across arid and semi-arid regions. Build storage facilities to reduce post-harvest losses. Establish fair minimum prices for key crops. Promote agricultural processing industries to increase farmers' incomes. Expand agricultural extension services using modern technology. 3. Education Education should prepare citizens for life, employment, and leadership. Guarantee quality early childhood education. Improve primary and secondary education standards. Reform the curriculum to strengthen literacy, mathematics, science, digital skills, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, civic education, and ethics. Strengthen technical and vocational education. Expand scholarships and affordable student financing. Equip schools with laboratories, libraries, internet, and modern learning materials. Improve teachers' welfare and continuous professional development. 4. Universal Healthcare No Kenyan should become poorer because they became sick. Guarantee affordable healthcare for every citizen. Strengthen public hospitals. Ensure essential medicines are always available. Recruit more doctors, nurses, and clinical officers. Expand mental health services. Invest in preventive healthcare through nutrition, sanitation, clean water, vaccination, and health education. Digitize medical records to improve efficiency. 5. Fighting Corruption Corruption steals from every Kenyan. Have zero tolerance for corruption. Require full public disclosure of government spending. Digitize procurement to reduce theft. Protect whistleblowers. Strengthen independent anti-corruption institutions. Recover stolen public assets. Bar convicted corrupt officials from public office. Fast-track corruption cases through special courts. - Every public official must explain their wealth. 6. Justice and Rule of Law Justice delayed is justice denied. Ensure equal justice regardless of wealth or political influence. Reduce court delays. Modernize police services. Strengthen witness protection. Expand legal aid for poor citizens. Protect constitutional rights and freedoms. 7. Security Security is the foundation of development. Modernize police equipment and training. Improve officers' welfare. Strengthen community policing. Invest in intelligence to prevent crime. Secure borders. Combat terrorism, cybercrime, drug trafficking, and organized crime. Every Kenyan deserves to live without fear. 8. Youth Empowerment Young people are Kenya's greatest resource. Create a National Youth Employment Programme. Support youth entrepreneurship. Expand sports facilities. Invest in arts, music, film, and digital content creation. Increase internship and apprenticeship opportunities. Encourage innovation through technology hubs. 9. Women and Families Strong families build strong nations. Expand maternal healthcare. Support women-owned businesses. Protect women from violence. Expand affordable childcare. Promote equal opportunity in employment and leadership. 10. Infrastructure Development must reach every region. Invest in: Better roads. Reliable electricity. Clean water. Affordable housing. High-speed internet. Modern public transport. Efficient ports and railways. 11. Environment We inherit the earth; we do not own it. Protect forests. Restore rivers. Expand renewable energy. Improve waste management. Encourage climate-smart agriculture. Promote tree planting nationwide. 12. Public Service Reform Government must become efficient. Digitize government services. Reduce bureaucracy. Reward performance. Eliminate ghost workers. Ensure timely service delivery. Measure ministries by results rather than promises. 13. Taxation Taxes should build the nation, not burden the poor. Simplify the tax system. Reduce unnecessary taxes. Broaden the tax base through economic growth. Ensure taxes are spent transparently. Encourage investment and job creation. 14. National Unity Kenya belongs to every Kenyan. Reject: Tribal politics. Religious hatred. Ethnic discrimination. Political violence. Appointments to public office based on merit, integrity, competence, and regional inclusivity. 15. Foreign Relations Kenya that is a respected partner in Africa and the world. Promote peace. Expand international trade. Protect Kenyan workers abroad. Attract responsible investment. Strengthen regional cooperation. Defend Kenya's sovereignty. The Social Contract Every Kenyan to: Work honestly. Respect the law. Reject corruption. Protect public property. Pay taxes fairly. Care for the environment. Respect one another regardless of tribe, religion, gender, or social status. Reality - No promise of instant wealth. - Promise honest leadership. - Promise responsible stewardship of public resources. - Promise equal opportunity. -Promise justice. - Promise to measure success not by speeches but by results: more jobs, better schools, healthier families, safer communities, stronger businesses, lower corruption, and a Kenya in which every citizen can proudly say: "The government works for all of us." Let us build a Kenya that is prosperous, fair, peaceful, innovative, and united—a nation where every child can dream, every young person can work, every family can thrive, and every citizen can live with dignity and hope. It should be appreciated that Kenya is moving towards this direction. Let Kenyans not be taken for a ride by only these words. These as you see are common knowledge out there. Not only should leaders know them, they should be willing to upon getting power actualize them by putting workable systems in place and then implementing. Our impression should be results not these words, though the words help us to know what we want and should expect. ~ Elijah Mutua Kirima Trained Social Worker ( Experts in all matters of Society)

KINGDOM LIFE RATHER THAN ESCAPE FROM EARTH SHOULD BE THE ENGROSSMENT OF A BELIEVER

KINGDOM LIFE RATHER THAN ESCAPE FROM EARTH SHOULD BE THE ENGROSSMENT OF A BELIEVER The greatest promise of God is the coming of a new heaven and a new earth. Christians have long discussed whether this means the complete replacement of the present creation or its transformation into a renewed order. Faithful believers hold different views on this question, and Scripture contains language that has been understood in both ways. Whatever one's interpretation, the central hope remains the same: a world characterized by God's perfect rule, righteousness, justice, peace, and abundant life. The greatest difference between the world we experience today and the world God promises is not merely geography but values and quality of life. Under the reign of Jesus Christ, righteousness replaces injustice, love overcomes hatred, peace triumphs over violence, and truth dispels deception. God calls believers to begin living those Kingdom values now. The future Kingdom should shape our present conduct. The world will not become different simply by magic; it will be different because Christ reigns perfectly and evil is finally defeated. Even before that final day, believers are called to reflect the character of Christ and to influence society for good. Jesus taught us to pray, "Your kingdom come. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven" (Matthew 6:10). This prayer is not merely about the future. It is also a call for God's will to be increasingly seen in our homes, churches, communities, workplaces, and nations today. Through Christ, God promises a world marked by the following realities. These are not only future hopes; they are values believers should actively pursue in this present life. Righteousness and Justice: We should pursue moral integrity, fairness, and justice for all. Isaiah 11:4 portrays the Messiah judging the poor with righteousness and defending the oppressed while dealing decisively with wickedness. Love and Compassion: We are commanded to love God wholeheartedly and to love our neighbours—and even our enemies—as ourselves. Humility and Servanthood: True greatness in God's Kingdom is found in serving others rather than dominating them. Forgiveness and Reconciliation: Having received God's mercy, we should extend forgiveness freely and work toward restoring broken relationships. Peace and Peacemaking: We should actively resolve conflicts and promote peace, justice, and reconciliation. Isaiah 2:4 foresees a day when nations will beat their swords into ploughshares and learn war no more. We can begin working toward peace today. Faith and Trust in God: We are called to depend upon God while using the resources He has entrusted to us wisely and generously for the benefit of others rather than hoarding them for ourselves. Restoration of Creation: Scripture anticipates the renewal of creation itself. Believers can participate now by caring for the environment, protecting God's creation, and reducing unnecessary conflict between humanity and nature. Healing and Human Flourishing: Christ's Kingdom brings healing and wholeness. We should continue working to improve healthcare, reduce suffering, and make essential medical services accessible to everyone. Universal Knowledge of God: Habakkuk 2:14 declares that the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as the waters cover the sea. As believers proclaim the gospel and live faithfully, many lives can be transformed and guided by God's truth. Joy and Shared Prosperity: God's Kingdom is marked by joy, dignity, and abundance. Christians should work toward societies where every person has the opportunity to live with dignity and where basic human needs are met. Believers should therefore be more engrossed with bringing Kingdom influence into the present world than with constantly longing to escape it. Jesus described His followers as the salt of the earth and the light of the world. Salt preserves what is good, and light exposes darkness. These images point to active engagement with society, not withdrawal from it. When Christians abandon the responsibilities of this world because they are focused only on leaving it, leadership and public life are often left in the hands of those who may not pursue justice, compassion, or the common good. The result is unnecessary suffering for many people. The hope of Christ's return should not produce passivity but faithful service. The expectation of God's future Kingdom should inspire believers to demonstrate its values today. Every act of justice, compassion, peacemaking, truth, service, and mercy becomes a witness to the coming reign of Christ. By Rev. Elijah Mutua Kirima THE WORD OF GOD IS THE WILL OF GOD July 2, 2026

PARTNERSHIP WITHOUT LOSS OF INDEPENDENCE.

PARTNERSHIP WITHOUT LOSS OF INDEPENDENCE A Faith-Based Organization (FBO) can partner with other organizations, governments, churches, businesses, foundations, or individuals without losing its independence. Such partnerships can follow the pattern by which the nations of the world cooperate. Nations remain sovereign and independent while working together with other nations for mutual benefit. In the same way, a Faith-Based Organization can retain its own identity, leadership, constitution, mission, and decision-making authority while collaborating with others. Partnerships should strengthen your organization—not replace it. These partnerships become possible when relationships are built around shared goals. Look for organizations and individuals whose values align with yours in areas such as preaching and teaching God's Word, discipleship (which transforms lives), poverty reduction, child protection, education, healthcare, disaster relief, peacebuilding, environmental stewardship, and community development. Projects supported by organizations or individuals may, where appropriate, acknowledge or bear the name of the sponsoring partner. While many partners are motivated purely by a desire to serve communities, others may wish to receive recognition for their contribution or participate in sustainable social investment initiatives. In such cases, partners may invest in income-generating ventures under terms that are freely agreed upon by all parties and consistent with applicable laws. After the agreed capital has been recovered, the venture may continue, by mutual agreement, to contribute a portion of its income—for example, 10%—to the supporting partner as a token of appreciation, while the remaining income is used to sustain and expand community services. Where a supporting organization or individual produces legal, ethical, and high-quality goods or services, the supported organization and the communities it serves may voluntarily choose to purchase or use those goods and services when appropriate. Such decisions should always remain voluntary, transparent, and in the best interests of the community. How to Build Effective Partnerships 1. Sign Partnership Agreements Develop simple Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) that clearly state: The purpose of the partnership. The responsibilities of each party. Financial accountability. How decisions will be made. How the partnership may be ended if necessary. 2. Share Your Impact Document and communicate the work your organization is doing and the lives being transformed. If your officers are supported to serve full-time, honestly demonstrate their daily activities, responsibilities, and productivity. When partnering with organizations, governments, or individuals in the USA, Great Britain, Europe, or elsewhere, remain willing to learn from their experience, expertise, and resources while sharing your own knowledge of local communities. 3. Maintain Transparency Publish annual reports, audited accounts where possible, and regular ministry and project updates. Organizations, governments, and individual supporters are more willing to partner with institutions that consistently demonstrate integrity and accountability. 4. Build Relationships Before Seeking Support Participate in online conferences, webinars, and international faith and development forums. Invest time in building genuine relationships before asking for financial assistance. Trust is built through patience, consistency, and faithful service. 5. Collaborate on Clearly Defined Projects Invite partners to work together on specific initiatives such as: Preaching, teaching God's Word, and discipleship. Clean water projects. Education support. Healthcare outreach. Livelihood and income-generation programs. Child protection. Community agriculture. Leadership development. Disaster response and community resilience. 6. Use Technology Effectively Hold regular online meetings, share reports electronically, and consistently communicate your work through websites and social media. Good communication strengthens confidence and keeps partners informed. View Partners as Equals Even when one partner contributes more financially or materially, every partner brings valuable strengths. International partners may contribute funding, technical expertise, training, and broader networks. Local organizations contribute community trust, cultural understanding, direct engagement with beneficiaries, and the ability to identify genuine needs and monitor projects effectively. Mutual respect creates stronger and more sustainable partnerships. A Guiding Principle "Independent in governance, united in purpose, accountable in partnership, and committed to serving humanity for the glory of God." This approach reflects the way nations cooperate internationally. Every organization remains autonomous while voluntarily working together where objectives are shared. Such partnerships can increase impact, encourage mutual learning, expand networks, attract resources, and strengthen the capacity of Faith-Based Organizations without compromising their identity, mission, or convictions. By Rev. Elijah Mutua Kirima THE WORD OF GOD IS THE WILL OF GOD June 29, 2026

SOCIAL WORK DEPARTMENT

SOCIAL WORK – KENYA/AFRICA Social Work – Kenya/Africa is a department of THE WORD OF GOD IS THE WILL OF GOD dedicated to serving vulnerable individuals, families, and communities. Subject to the availability of resources and partnerships, we seek to improve spiritual, social, emotional, and practical well-being through the following interventions: Our Areas of Intervention 1. Basic Needs and Humanitarian Support Support for the provision of food and clothing. Support for access to clean drinking water and sanitation. Support for healthcare and well-being. Support for shelter and housing needs. Emergency response and crisis intervention support. 2. Education and Skills Development Support for education. Support for vocational and practical skills development. Support for work tools and income-generating activities. Support for employment and business development initiatives. Support for access to business capital where possible. 3. Family Strengthening and Counseling Pre-wedding support. Pre-marital counseling. Family support and counseling. Support for single-parent families, child-headed households, orphans, and other vulnerable families. Drafting and facilitation of child support agreements. Peacebuilding, reconciliation, and mediation efforts. 4. Agriculture and Livelihood Support Support for subsistence farming. Support for small-scale livestock and poultry keeping. Encouragement of sustainable livelihood initiatives. 5. Mental Health and Well-being Emotional support and encouragement. Mindset transformation and social awareness initiatives. Mental health support and referrals. Interventions aimed at preventing and addressing substance and drug abuse. 6. Justice, Rights, and Advocacy Support to secure and protect rights. Support to access justice. Advocacy against corruption and for good governance. Advocacy for an effective, fair, and just judicial and correctional system. Support for families affected by criminal justice processes. Support for inheritance and succession matters. 7. Gender, Disability, and Vulnerable Groups Support for victims of Gender-Based Violence (GBV). Advocacy for women's rights and participation. Advocacy and support for persons living with disabilities. Support for the elderly and counseling for caregivers. Support and networking for refugees and internally displaced persons. 8. Community Development and Environmental Stewardship Advocacy and support for the protection of natural resources. Climate and environmental awareness initiatives. Advocacy for sustainable communities and cities. Advocacy for responsible production and consumption. 9. Bereavement and Funeral Support Counseling and support following the loss of a loved one. Support for funeral arrangements where possible. Presiding over funerals as an expression of care and support for grieving families. 10. Workplace and Organizational Development Supporting employers and employees in improving workplace effectiveness. Assisting organizations to build capacity, improve efficiency, increase productivity, boost morale, and encourage creativity. Reviewing policies, programs, and regulations to identify effective practices and suggest improvements. 11. Child and Youth Protection Supporting efforts to reunite street-connected children with their families, relatives, and communities. Working to identify and address the circumstances that led to family separation and vulnerability. Let's Partner We welcome partnerships with individuals, families, faith communities, organizations, businesses, and development partners who share a desire to build stronger and more compassionate communities. LINKS: https://www.facebook.com/SWAfricaKe https://thewordofgodisthewillofgod.blogspot.com/2024/06/social-work-department.html?spref=tw Contact: Rev. Elijah Mutua Kirima Email: elijahkirima@gmail.com Mobile/WhatsApp: +254 726 591 692 THE WORD OF GOD IS THE WILL OF GOD "Serving people, strengthening families, and building communities."

CARRYING OUT A CALLING PROFESSIONALLY

CARRYING OUT A CALLING PROFESSIONALLY A pastor can and should pray for provision so that, like any other worker, he or she can rise each day and give focused attention to the affairs of God's Kingdom. If the endeavors of this world require full-time workers, how much more the work of the Church. I pray that people of good will will see the need to support full time ministry. Also, where tithes and offerings are enough to support full time ministry, the church will better fulfill its mandate if the leaders with church support can serve full time. If no one is sponsoring you, and the fellowship cannot support you, keep working menial work or professional work, God sees your heart. But what should a pastor wake up to each day? 1. Time Spent with God A productive day begins with personal spiritual growth. - Prayer - Bible study - Worship through singing, meditation, and reflection on God's truth - Listening for God's direction and guidance Example: Jesus regularly withdrew to pray before ministering to others. "But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed." (Luke 5:16) A pastor cannot effectively lead others where he or she has not first gone personally. 2. Meaningful Care for People Even one genuine pastoral interaction can make a day fruitful. - Visiting a member - Calling someone who is struggling - Encouraging a discouraged person - Praying with someone in need Example: Jesus often stopped for individuals, including Zacchaeus and the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4). Pastoral ministry is not only about crowds; it is also about caring for people one at a time. 3. Teaching, Bible Study, and Discipleship - Helping people grow spiritually is a central pastoral responsibility. - Preparing sermons and lessons - Leading Bible studies - Mentoring believers - Answering spiritual questions - Guiding people toward spiritual maturity. At the end of the day, a pastor can ask: "Did someone grow in their understanding of God today?" 4. Evangelism and Community Presence - A pastor should regularly engage people outside the congregation. - Meeting neighbors - Sharing the Gospel - Building relationships within the community - Attending community events - Being visible and approachable Success is not measured only by conversions but also by faithful witness. 5. Administrative Stewardship Good ministry requires good organization. - Responding to messages - Planning services and events - Managing church records - Following up with visitors - Coordinating ministry activities - Managing Social Media accounts and using them for outreach. Administrative work may not always be visible, but it helps create order and effectiveness. 6. Equipping Others for Ministry A productive pastor does not do everything personally. - Delegating responsibilities - Training volunteers - Developing future leaders - Encouraging members to use their spiritual gifts According to Ephesians 4:11–12, church leaders are called to equip believers for the work of ministry. A healthy church grows when many people serve, not when one person does everything. 7. Solving Problems and Preventing Problems Pastors help address challenges in the church, in believers' lives, and within the community. - Resolving conflicts - Clarifying misunderstandings - Helping members make wise decisions - Offering biblical counsel - Protecting the church from unhealthy influences and false teaching Wise leadership often prevents problems before they become crises. 8. Building Relationships Strong churches are built on trust. A pastor should regularly ask: - Did I listen well today? - Did I strengthen a relationship? - Did I show genuine care? - Did I demonstrate Christ's love? People often remember how much they were cared for long after they forget a sermon. 9. Personal Development A pastor who continues learning will serve more effectively. - Reading books - Studying theology - Learning leadership skills - Understanding community needs - Developing practical ministry skills Growth in knowledge and wisdom benefits both the pastor and the congregation. 10. Faithfulness to the Calling At the end of the day, the most important question is: "Did I faithfully advance God's work today?" A pastor's work may involve preaching to hundreds or praying with one hurting person. In God's Kingdom, both can be equally important. Jesus taught that the faithful servant is commended not primarily for the size of the results, but for faithfulness: "Well done, good and faithful servant." (Matthew 25:21) - Measuring Success Correctly For pastors with small congregations, success should not be measured only by attendance, offerings, buildings, or visible growth. Much pastoral work involves planting seeds that may take years to bear fruit. Scripture emphasizes faithfulness more than immediate results. "Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful." (1 Corinthians 4:2) A successful pastor is not merely one who has the largest congregation, but one who faithfully loves God, serves people, teaches truth, and fulfills the calling entrusted to him or her by Christ. By Rev. Elijah Mutua Kirima. General Overseer: THE WORD OF GOD IS THE WILL OF GOD. To partner with us or support in anyway, write to: elijahkirima@gmail.com

WHY YOU SHOULD JOIN US

WHY YOU SHOULD JOIN US AT: THE WORD OF GOD IS THE WILL OF GOD. 1. To help add and demonstrate value in individuals and communities we serve. 2. To help build a fellowship and an organization that rebuilds trust at such a time as this. 3. To make your contribution in serving people and communities well. We seek and pray to genuinely improve individual's and communities' spiritual, social, and practical well-being. We Are doing this through: 1. Living Out our Mission Consistently through actions that match our message. "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:16) We seek to have our teaching on compassion, integrity, service, love, outreach, discipleship, prayer etc be visible in everyday activities. 2. Meeting Real Community Needs While currently we are very limited financially, we are rich in the Word and vision and knows services such as: • Feeding programs • Skills training • Job networking • Counseling services • Youth mentorship • Support for widows, orphans, and vulnerable families can really demonstrate our faith, and commitment to better individuals and communities. We believe more and more people will see our genuine concern for the welfare of individuals and communities as we seek more resources and apply them appropriately. 3. Building Personal Relationships We want you and everyone else who joins us to feel at home and that they belong. Every believer cannot start their own Faith Based organization or have their own nation or each own all the enterprises that people own. Different people needs to do different things for the common good of all. We seek your satisfaction and that of everyone else who joins so that those who trust you can too join and bless God that following you did not disappoint them. "Christ is, so I am, so you can be, so they too can come and be." is our pattern. "Andrew... found his own brother Simon and said to him, 'We have found the Messiah.'" (John 1:41) We encourage disciples and believers with us to: - Invite friends and family - Welcome newcomers warmly - Follow up with visitors 4. Communicating Clearly We seek to have everyone easily understand: - What we believe - What we do - Who we serve - How you or they can participate We use use: - Social media - Community meetings - Clyers and posters - WhatsApp groups - A blogspot website (we hope to get finances for official website) etc 5. Offering Meaningful Programs We always seek to deliver programs that add value. Examples: - Bible studies - Prayer groups - Children's programs - Youth activities - Marriage and parenting seminars - Financial literacy workshops etc. You can use your skills, talents, gifts and calling to bless others and communities 6. Developing Strong Leadership Because People are drawn to trustworthy leaders, we hope you can be that leader and help develop such leaders "Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant." (Mark 10:43) We aspire to be and pray for leaders that are, and develop leaders that are: - Honest - Accessible - Accountable - Humble - Competent • Teachable • Committed • Examples • Givers • Continuous disciples and committed to prayer. 7. Creating a Welcoming Environment Fully aware that visitors decide within minutes whether they feel accepted. We consider: - Friendly greetings - Clear directions - Comfortable seating - Follow-up after visits - Inclusion of newcomers in activities 8. Use of Testimonies We believe that personal stories are powerful. We allow believers to share: - How their lives improved - Prayers answered - Skills learned - Relationships restored etc We believe that authentic testimonies often speak louder than advertisements. 9. Engaging Young People We believe that youth are not only the future; they are part of the present. We are committed to provide: - Leadership opportunities - Mentorship - Skills development - Community service projects 10. Maintaining Integrity Because we believe no marketing strategy can compensate for a lack of integrity, we avoid: -False promises - Manipulative fundraising - Exaggerated miracles - Pressure tactics and such other evils "Rather, speaking the truth in love..." (Ephesians 4:15) 11. Starting A Fellowship Right Where We Have A Contact Person. We seek to start fellowships in every locality within Kenya and around the world. Any believer anywhere, we can always discuss on how to start a fellowship. With one person and his/her family or one or two friends, the fellowship begins. CONCLUSION Day and night, our heart beat is: - Serve people well. - Build trust. - Create genuine relationships - Demonstrate integrity. - Produce visible positive impact - Attract more people. We ask ourselves: Can those who fellowship with us, individuals and communities we serve honestly say: "These people care about God, care about one another, and care about us." For fellowship information, partnership opportunities, or financial support inquiries, please contact us at: elijahkirima@gmail.com By Rev. Elijah Mutua Kirima. General Overseer, THE WORD OF GOD IS THE WILL OF GOD.

THE DON'TS WHEN MAXIMIZING SECURITY IN BOARDING SCHOOLS - SOCIAL WORK ARTICLE.

The “Don’ts” When Maximizing Security for a Girls’ AND Boys' Boarding School. ( In honor of those who have lost lives through fires and other incidences in school, in Kenya) Security is not only about fences and guards. It is also about wisdom, discipline, policies, relationships, and protecting dignity. In trying to maximize security, schools must avoid actions that create fear, abuse, negligence, or loopholes. 1. Don’t Ignore Warning Signs Do not dismiss strange behavior, threats, stalking, bullying, or repeated complaints. Small incidents often become major security problems when ignored. Take every concern seriously and investigate early. 2. Don’t Employ Unvetted Staff Never hire guards, drivers, matrons, teachers, cooks, or casual workers without proper background checks and references. Avoid employing people with unclear identity documents or questionable histories. 3. Don’t Allow Uncontrolled Access Do not allow visitors to roam freely within the school compound. Avoid weak gate control systems. Every visitor should be identified, recorded, and monitored. 4. Don’t Keep Dark or Isolated Areas Avoid poorly lit dormitories, pathways, toilets, classrooms, and fences. Dark corners create opportunities for abuse, theft, and intrusion. 5. Don’t Ignore Digital Security Do not overlook phone misuse, online predators, cyberbullying, or inappropriate internet access. Security today includes both physical and digital protection. 6. Don’t Silence Students Never create an environment where girls or boys fear reporting abuse or harassment. Avoid threatening victims into silence to “protect the school’s image.” A safe reporting system is essential. 7. Don’t Overlook Emergency Preparedness Do not operate without: fire drills, emergency contacts, evacuation plans, first aid systems, trained responders. Emergencies expose unprepared institutions quickly. • Don't lock dormitories or classrooms from outside. When locked from inside keys should be easily available by students knowing who keeps them and where. Students should be nurtured to have discipline of their own, not a forced one through closed doors and windows. • Windows should be able to open in such a way that students can fit in during emergencies. • Emergency slide ropes can be ready where there are high rise buildings. 8. Don’t Allow Secret Relationships Between Staff and Students Avoid situations where staff privately interact with students without accountability. Strict professional boundaries protect both students and staff. 9. Don’t Depend Only on Physical Barriers High walls alone are not enough. Security also requires: alert leadership, disciplined routines, communication systems, student awareness, trusted supervision. 10. Don’t Neglect Mental and Emotional Safety Security is not only protection from outsiders. Avoid environments filled with intimidation, humiliation, violence, or emotional abuse. Fearful students may hide dangerous situations. 11. Don’t Share Sensitive Student Information Carelessly Avoid exposing student schedules, dorm arrangements, personal contacts, or travel details publicly. Information leaks can create security risks. 12. Don’t Ignore Transportation Security Do not use unverified drivers or unsafe vehicles. Avoid poor supervision during trips, outings, or school transfers. 13. Don’t Create a Prison-Like Environment Excessive harshness, constant suspicion, or militarized control can damage trust and emotional wellbeing. Good security protects without destroying dignity and freedom. 14. Don’t Assume “It Can Never Happen Here” Complacency is dangerous. Every school should continuously review vulnerabilities and improve systems. 15. Don’t Exclude Parents and the Community Avoid poor communication with parents, local authorities, and nearby communities. Strong partnerships improve intelligence, accountability, and rapid response. Key Principle The goal of school security is not merely to control students, but to create a safe, healthy, dignified, and trustworthy environment where girls and boys can learn, grow, and flourish without fear.

WHAT IT MEANS TO WALK IN THE WORD OF GOD

WHAT IT MEANS TO TRULY WALK IN THE WORD OF GOD — It's not merely admiring truth, but becoming shaped by it in character, conduct, speech, and daily living. - You hide the Word in the heart — inward transformation. - Receive the engrafted Word with meekness — humble submission. - Do the Word — obedient action. - Hold fast the faithful Word — steadfast preservation of truth. - Hold forth the Word of life — faithful proclamation to others. The Christian life is not built on occasional inspiration but on continual formation by God's Word until truth becomes visible in how one thinks, speaks, decides, relates, serves, and endures. As The Holy Bible teaches in Psalm, the hidden Word restrains sin because it governs the inner man before actions appear outwardly. And James warns that hearing without doing produces self-deception. Truth must move from the ears, to the heart, to the life. The call in Ephesians 4:15 — “speaking the truth in love” —, Maturity in Christ is connected to both truthful doctrine and Christlike character. Truth without love becomes harshness; love without truth becomes compromise. In Christ, both meet together. We are to “Hold fast” and “hold forth”: - We must retain sound doctrine personally. - We must also release the Word faithfully to others. A believer therefore becomes: rooted in truth, governed by truth, protected by truth, transformed by truth, and a witness of truth. - Live the Word of Life every moment, every day, in everything you do. This is ultimately a call to let Christ himself be seen through daily conduct, because the written Word points us to the Living Word — Jesus Christ.

OBJECTIVES

1. The fellowship shall form branches in all the republic of Kenya according to its ability and branches in all the Nations of the world where necessary permission will be granted. 2.To make known the written Word of God so as to proclaim the good news of the Lord Jesus Christ. 3. To provide sound , Biblical based teaching and build a spiritually empowered fellowship so that all people may have the opportunity to be saved and come to knowledge of the truth, enter into transforming relationship with Jesus Christ, and become established in faithful and fruitful Christian living. 4. To promote the creation of local fellowships of which are self supporting and to foster unity and fellowship amongst such fellowships. 5. To gather at convenient times and as the fellowship may decide at any level for: a. prayers, worship, counsel and instruction on the word of God, exercise of those spiritual gifts and offices set forth in the New Testament , giving to support the fellowship, for conferences and revival meetings, to build and strengthen the faith of believers and win non-believers to Christ. b. To carry out special services such as dedication of children, baptism, c. Dedication of land, buildings and other immovable property acquired by the fellowship. d. To witness and and cerebrate the officiating of weddings, for burial and to cerebrate Holy communion. 6. To offer holistic help to meet the holistic needs of the fellowship. a. Inviting experts to teach about business and entrepreneurship, b. Connecting members of the fellowship to business and employment opportunities, c.Inviting experts to teach about health, law, citizenship, d. giving counseling where needed.7. To publish and distribute books, magazines, newsletters, have radio and T.V programmes, audio and video materials and web-sites for the purposes of meeting the fellowship's and society's needs. 8. To employ qualified personnel and be creative so as to create job opportunities. 9. To serve the community. 10. To facilitate the welfare of members and especially the fellowship's employed staff. 11. To acquire fellowship property, moveable or immoveable for the achievement of the above stated purposes. 12. To train and send out missionaries and evangelists. 13. To acquire funds and apply the same for the achievement of the above stated purposes. 14. The fellowship shall not be under any form of political control.

BIBLE VERSES SUPPORTING HELPING THE NEEDY

Deuteronomy 15:11: “There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be open handed towards your brothers and towards the poor and needy in your land. In Mathew 25:34 They are called blessed by God and worthy of the Kingdom of God those who – verse 35 – 40, provided basic needs to the poor – food, drink, clothes; welcomed the strangers ; Minded about people’s health, and those in prison (and the justice system) In Galatians 6:2 carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. In James 1:27 Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and personal care (to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. In James 2:15, 16: Suppose a brother or a sister (Endearing terms that shows we are all a human family) is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, “Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well,” but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? In Proverbs 19:17 He who is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward him for what he has done. Sometimes the poor have no family members or friends willing or able to assist them hence the need for other interventions. Proverbs 19:7. In Psalms 82:3 defend the cause of the weak and fatherless, maintain the rights of the poor and oppressed. - This scripture opens the door for advocacy to us. In Proverbs 22:2 Rich and poor have this in common: The LORD Is maker of them all. – We believe this verse is speaking of the inherent dignity of every person regardless of their social status or situations they have found themselves in, and hence the need to mind the lowly and allow those who have succeeded in honest means to enjoy their success.

The Right Perspective

https://youtu.be/VaKUS40YgV4?feature=shared

SHORT HISTORY OF THE FELLOWSHIP.

 Pastor Elijah Mutua Kirima is the founding leader of the fellowship/ministry/church: THE WORD OF GOD IS THE WILL OF GOD. Elijah Kirima got born again at the age of 10 in a Full Gospel Churches of Kenya Church - Nkunga, Maitei, Buuri, Meru. He joined the Sunday school and is glad for the loving heart and teachings from the Sunday school teachers and those that ministered to the whole church.

Elijah Kirima did his primary school through the support of the school Head Teacher, Bord, teachers and parents. Elijah would teach God's word at the primary school morning assemblies.

Elijah joined High School through fundraising drive that he conducted from time to time, mostly with the support of his friend Mr Joseph Kimathi and his (Elijah's) mother - now late, who despite being disabled made all efforts, rearing and selling goats, and borrowing from friends and the area MP. Elijah was also a beneficiary of government bursary funds. The problem was that a student would be allocated a very small amount. He remembers the day all the students and teachers made a contribution at the assembly. Elijah became a youth leader at the church and a Christian Union Class Rep upon joining High School (Kanyakine High School). He was later elected the High School Christian Union Chairperson. Elijah received a call to serve while he was sitting for his High School Final exams (KCSE - 2000)

Immediately after High School he was introduced to a village private library by Pastor Joseph Koome who was the owner and had it in his house. He read so many Christian books. He got to read books by CES (Christian Education Service), now STF (Spirit and Truth Fellowship)  and TLTF (The Living Truth Fellowship). He took many years of mind struggle, to fully accept the truths in those books as the accurate explanations taught in the Word of God.

In 2004 Elijah, having come to Nairobi and stayed for nearly three years, joined a Trinitarian Bible School for one year (Twice or thrice he asked question on subjects like whether Jesus was God, state of the dead and on the prevalent suffering people go through. The books he had read seemed to offer better explanations) This year of study  was made  possible through fundraising, mainly from the church he was attending. 

In 2005, Elijah was appointed a deacon at FGCK Mathare Area 1. In 2007 there was a breakup and shakeup and as some joined the faction and others remained, Elijah was shortly appointed an elder and later an assistant pastor to the Luckysummer branch. He was appointed to serve on contract for two years. Later those years were renewed for a further two years. The Local church senior pastor had made it clear that there would be no more renewal. On 19th April 2011, Elijah presented a request to the government for registration of the fellowship: THE WORD OF GOD IS THE WILL OF GOD. Towards the end of August at exactly the time the contract was ending, he received the registration. The first service was held on 11th September, 2011. There has been a major shift from Trinitarianism  to Biblical Unitarian. Elijah has since connected with brethren from STF, TLTF and several other like minded fellowships both within and around the world.

Glory to God, we can now do all that a church is allowed to do in Kenya and around the world where we get necessary permission. Kindly join the movement. To contact go to > home > contact.

1 Samuel 25:10-25