Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has called on Kenyan Muslims to align religious practice with civic responsibility, speaking at the close of a large Islamic conference in Eastleigh, Nairobi, that drew thousands of worshippers from across the country and beyond.
Duale spoke on the final day of the 8th Annual Ansaaru Sunnah Islamic Conference, a four-day event that ran from December 23, 2025.
According to organisers, the gathering attracted more than 20,000 faithful and featured teachings from both local and international Islamic scholars.
In his address, Duale urged Muslims to apply the teachings of the Holy Qur’an in their daily lives, stressing values such as discipline, tolerance, and respect for the law.
He also highlighted the importance of safeguarding the dignity of women, including those who choose to wear the hijab, noting that respect for personal religious expression is protected under Kenya’s Constitution.
The Cabinet Secretary used the platform to encourage greater civic engagement among attendees.
He asked eligible citizens to register with the Social Health Authority (SHA) to access public health services and to acquire voter cards ahead of future elections.
Duale emphasized participation in the democratic process as a constitutional right and responsibility.
Kenya has in recent years placed renewed focus on voter registration and public participation, particularly following electoral reforms aimed at improving inclusivity and turnout.
The conference’s final day featured lectures by Sheikh Abdirashid Ali Sufi of Qatar, UK-based scholars Yahya Al-Raaby and Sheikh Mohammed Ismail, among others. Organisers said the scholars addressed issues of faith, morality, and the role of Islam in modern society.
Several prominent religious and community leaders attended the closing ceremony.
They included former Mandera Senator Billow Kerrow, conference host Sheikh Abdulrazak Abdullahi, popularly known as General Jir, Sheikh Mohammed Kenyawi, and Sheikh Yussuf Ahmed.
The Ansaaru Sunnah Islamic Conference is held annually and has grown into one of the largest religious gatherings in Nairobi’s Eastleigh area, a neighbourhood known for its strong Muslim identity and active religious institutions.