Former NFL star and renowned American pastor Rickey Allen Bolden is set to headline Kenya’s 22nd Annual National Prayer Breakfast that will be held at the Safari Park Hotel, Nairobi, on Wednesday.
Kenyans.co.ke has confirmed that Bolden, a former Miami Dolphins player whose promising NFL career was cut short by injury, later became a globally sought-after pastor based in Dallas, Texas, will be part of the event.
Known for his compelling storytelling and messages of faith, leadership, and moral courage, Bolden will deliver the keynote address.
During his career, Bolden played as an offensive lineman for the Cleveland Browns in the NFL, where he transitioned from a tight end at Southern Methodist University (SMU) to an offensive lineman in the professional league.
He played six seasons with the Browns, participating in 62 games and starting in 34 of them. Notably, he recorded two receptions for 22 yards and one touchdown during his NFL career
''I am deeply honoured to be part of this important occasion,'' Bolden said ahead of his visit. ''Kenya stands at a historic juncture. This gathering is a divine opportunity to rise from complacency and shine with purpose and compassion.''
At the age of 28, while still an active NFL player, Bolden left professional football to pursue theological studies at Ashland Theological Seminary.
After completing his education, he became a pastor, serving communities in Washington, D.C., and later in LaGrange, Georgia, and has been involved in various ministries, including mentoring young leaders and hosting Bible studies for members of Congress in the US.
Meanwhile, the high-profile annual event organised by the bicameral parliament of Kenya through its National Assembly and Senate will bring together the country’s top leadership, MPs, diplomats, religious leaders, and guests from across the globe.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, who serves as the co-patron of the Kenya National Prayer Breakfast, has extended an open invitation to all Kenyans to attend the 22nd Annual National Prayer Breakfast, scheduled for tomorrow at the Safari Park Hotel in Nairobi.
''I welcome all Kenyans to gather at Safari Park Hotel to pray for our country and themselves,'' he told Kenyans from the floor of the house on Tuesday.
The event comes at a time when the country is grappling with economic challenges, political tension, and rising youth unrest, with the organisers hoping that it could offer the country an opportunity to reflect on its past mistakes and shape future aspirations.
