Diocese of Embu Bishop Peter Kimani Ndung’u has urged Christians to take up practical measures aimed at eradicating poverty, saying it is a major source of problems within families and the wider society.
Addressing worshippers at St. Teresa of the Child Jesus Kithimu Parish during a tree-planting exercise organized by DOE Caritas Embu, the bishop encouraged believers to embrace hard work, develop consistent saving habits, and support Caritas-Embu’s economic empowerment programs.
Bishop Kimani emphasized that poverty is not an illness but a circumstance that communities can overcome through unity and action.
He echoed the Caritas-Mbeu motto, “Self-help is the best help,” and cited Pope Leo IV’s first encyclical, “I Have Loved You,” which underscores the Church’s duty to uplift the poor.
He also expressed concern over rising idleness among able-bodied individuals, humorously noting that some forms of petty theft—like people sneaking into homes to milk cows at night—stem from unwillingness to work.
“If each one of us had an avocado tree among other fruit trees at home, who would steal from the other?” he asked, sparking laughter as he joked that some households are forced to guard their cows at night to prevent such incidents.
The bishop called on Christians to cultivate a saving culture and abandon the belief that only today matters. Savings, he said, bring hope and act as a cushion in difficult times.
As part of the ongoing Caritas Week, more than 50 fruit trees were planted at the parish and over 600 distributed to local families.
Caritas Director Rev. Fr. James Murithi—participating in his first field event as director—encouraged residents to form groups and enroll in the Caritas-Mbeu microfinance program, which offers training, savings opportunities and affordable loans.
He explained that Caritas-Mbeu loans attract one percent interest per month on a reducing balance, meaning interest is charged only on the outstanding amount, making repayment more manageable for members.
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Fr. Murithi said Caritas will soon unveil a new Caritas-Mbeu policy to guide the institution’s expansion and strengthen its community impact.
He invited Christians and partners to take part in the week’s activities, which include visits to vulnerable groups, outreach at Embu Prisons, and time with children at Carlo-Liviero Home, where staff will engage in a friendly football match.
Kithimu Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Julius Kinyua thanked Caritas for selecting the parish as this year’s tree-planting venue, saying the macadamia and Hass avocado trees will bring long-term economic benefits to the community.
He encouraged Christians to grow fruit trees not only for consumption but also as a source of income.
Caritas Week, which runs from November 17–23, 2025, will conclude with a thanksgiving Mass at Maria Consolata Iriamurai Parish.
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