Atheists In Kenya Society (AIK) is a non-profit organization that advocates for the rights of atheists, agnostics, humanists, and other non-religious individuals in Kenya. Established on February 17, 2016, it is the first secular society to be registered in the country. AIK seeks to promote the separation of church and state and offers a sense of community for those who are non-religious in a predominantly religious society.
History and Formation of Atheists In Kenya Society
The Atheists In Kenya Society began its journey in 2013 when a group of Kenyan individuals came together with the goal of establishing a non-religious society. These informal meetings were organized in various restaurants across Nairobi, and social media platforms like Facebook helped connect like-minded individuals. Among the founding members were Ssemakula Mukiibi, Zack Wanambwa, Elizabeth Wangari, and Ellen Mical.
In 2015, they applied for registration, but their request was initially rejected by the Deputy Registrar of Societies. Despite the setback, the group remained resolute in their mission. On February 17, 2016, the group was officially granted registration by the Kenyan government under Societies Act, Cap. 108. This momentous decision allowed the group to formally operate as the Atheists In Kenya Society (AIK).
Legal Challenges and Activism
AIK’s journey has not been without its challenges. In 2016, the society’s registration was temporarily suspended by the then Attorney General, Githu Muigai, following pressure from the Kenya National Congress of Pentecostal Churches, who argued that the group’s establishment would disrupt public peace. Harrison Mumia, the president of AIK, took the case to the High Court of Kenya, challenging the suspension. In 2018, the court ruled in AIK’s favor, quashing the suspension and allowing the society to resume its activities.
In 2023, AIK faced another legal battle when a Christian bishop filed a case seeking to suspend the society’s registration. However, despite these challenges, the Atheists In Kenya Society has remained committed to its objectives and continued advocating for the rights of non-religious Kenyans.
Goals and Objectives of AIK
The Atheists In Kenya Society aims to foster an environment where secularism, skepticism, and rational inquiry are embraced. The key objectives of the society include:
- Promoting rational and scientific inquiry into the universe and human existence.
- Advocating for ethics and morality based on humanistic and rational ideals.
- Fostering community for atheists and other like-minded individuals.
- Organizing events such as forums, discussions, and debates.
- Promoting public acceptance of atheists and secularism in Kenya.
- Engaging in social issues affecting the broader community and its members.
Notable Activism and Initiatives
AIK has been involved in several key campaigns and initiatives that have contributed to shaping public discourse in Kenya. Some of their notable actions include:
- 2015: AIK called for laws to restrict street preachers from proselytizing in public spaces like matatus (minibuses).
- 2016: The society petitioned the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) to remove tax exemptions for churches, advocating for equal treatment for all organizations.
- 2020: The society funded the school fees of a top student in the 2019 KCPE from Baringo County, supporting educational opportunities for underserved students.
- Campaign for Religious Education Scrapping: AIK lobbied for the removal of religious education from the Kenyan curriculum.
- Atheist National Holiday: The society has campaigned for February 17 to be declared as an official Atheist holiday in Kenya.
- Political Accountability: In 2022, AIK urged politicians to sign a declaration to respect individuals regardless of their religious beliefs.
Leadership of Atheists In Kenya Society
The Atheists In Kenya Society is governed by an Executive Committee that is responsible for the day-to-day operations and long-term strategy. As of December 2021, the key members of the committee are:
- Harrison Mumia – President
- Hellen Kathure – Vice President
- Michelle Nekesa – Secretary
- Samson Mbavu – Treasurer
- Kenny Githungo – Assistant Treasurer
- Rebecca Sarange – Assistant Secretary
The society continues to expand its influence, advocating for secular rights and freedoms in a country where religious beliefs play a dominant role in society.
Conclusion
The Atheists In Kenya Society (AIK) plays a crucial role in advocating for the rights and freedoms of non-religious individuals in Kenya. Through its advocacy for secularism, scientific inquiry, and humanistic values, AIK works to promote an inclusive and tolerant society that respects individuals of all belief systems. Despite facing legal challenges, the society has made significant strides in influencing public opinion and policy in Kenya.
