The President particularly impressed on leaders to work together, avoid divisive tendencies and respect one another to ensure the nation forges ahead in the reform agenda and other priority development programmes.

He said petty wrangles, jealousies and divisive tendencies undermined national unity and harmony among wananchi (locals).

At the same time, the President also appealed to religious leaders, as partners in development, to play a leading role in uniting Kenyans in their quest for a just, cohesive and prosperous nation.The Head of State was speaking at Gusii stadium in Kisii where he presided over the inauguration of centenary celebrations to mark 100 years of Catholic Evangelization in the region. Earlier, the President officially opened the Pope Benedict XVI Minor Seminary, Kisii.

"As a nation we are also called upon to fully embrace the spirit of national healing and reconciliation in a process which must involve all Kenyans," said President Kibaki.

The President emphasised that leaders need to work together and at all times to respect one another and especially this period when efforts are being geared towards developing requisite infrastructure. He asked Kenyans to beware of a few disgruntled elements out to divide them.

The Head of State commended the catholic faithful and leadership in Kisii for successfully completing construction of the Seminary, which, he added, stands out as an icon in the provision of both academic and spiritual education to Kenyans. The President reaffirmed his government's commitment to expand education opportunities for all Kenyans.

"I note with encouragement that since my last visit, great strides have been made, resulting in the opening of this magnificent minor seminary. This is an important event in the Catholic calendar. "It gives the Diocese an opportunity to celebrate the progress you have made over the last 100 years and reflect on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead."

The Apostolic Nuncio to Kenya Alain Paul Lebeaupin, who is the Pope’s representative in Kenya, celebrated the solemn mass inaugurating the centenary commemoration activities to mark Catholic Evangelization in the Kisii region.

Speaking during the occasion, Public Works minister Dr Chris Obure called for hastened implementations of the constitution to enable Kenyans reap benefits of the new law. Lauding the church for 100 years of Catholic Evangelisation in the region, the Minister stressed the need for effective management of available resources by both the public and private institutions to realize desired effects.

Others who spoke included local MP Robert Monda, Nairobi Catholic Archbishop His Eminence John Cardinal Njue and Kisii Diocese Bishop Joseph Okemwa.