Raised in a peasant farming family in Nakuru, Sammy Wainaina, provost of All Saints Cathedral since 2013, described his 25-year career in the Anglican Church that included roles as vicar, archdeacon, and assistant provost. His interview with Business Daily Africa on May 20, 2022, highlighted theological reflections and personal experiences shaping his leadership approach.
Wainaina recounted childhood moments like baptizing friends with soil, emphasizing his humanity while rejecting special treatment. "I’m a normal human being," he stated, noting his struggles with self-doubt before sermons. He described the 2008 post-election violence as a traumatic period when threats against his family in Kericho left him questioning the sincerity of those he served.
On theological matters, Wainaina argued that God transcends gender, citing biblical passages like Isaiah’s metaphor of God as a mother hen. He defended the Bible’s relevance, comparing its core message of love to an avocado’s unchanging seed despite cultural shifts. "God is love. That cannot change," he said, stressing contextual interpretation of scripture.
Wainaina’s 25-year marriage to Beatrice serves as a personal anchor, with the provost describing her as his "anchor" in balancing public and private life. He addressed romantic attention by emphasizing his commitment to his family, stating, "I’m in love with my wife" and prioritizing domestic responsibilities.
Regarding divorce, Wainaina condemned domestic violence, sharing a Facebook post warning against abusive relationships. "If you’re in an abusive marriage, you’re going to die," he wrote, advocating for separation in such cases. His interview reflected the complexities of spiritual leadership amid personal vulnerability and societal challenges.
