By Nyang’au Araka

For many Kenyans, the name Kiambaa evokes painful memories of one of the darkest moments of the 2007/2008 post-election violence.

And, they are not wrong.

On New Year’s Day in 2008, terrified families sought refuge at the Kenya Assemblies of God church in Kiambaa, near Eldoret Town, hoping that a house of worship would offer them safety from the violence sweeping across parts of the country.

Instead, the church became the scene of a tragedy that shocked Kenya and the world.

Dozens of people, including women and children, died after the building was attacked and set ablaze.

The exact death toll has been reported differently, but the incident remains one of the most enduring symbols of the horrors of the post-election violence.

Eighteen years later, a different scene unfolded at Kiambaa on Friday.

First Lady Rachel Ruto marked the launch of Christian Life Assembly Church, describing it as the beginning of a new chapter of faith and community fellowship.

“A new chapter of faith and community fellowship begins in Kiambaa with the launch of Christian Life Assembly Church,” she said.

“The new beginning honours the memories carried by this community while celebrating its resilience, reconciliation and determination to move forward together.”

The new church, she added, is intended to be more than a place where people gather for Sunday worship.

“More than a place of worship, the church is envisioned as a home where families are strengthened, young people nurtured and communities brought together in service and compassion.”

As usual, Kenyans who received the news via social media were divided.

Those who welcomed the news noted that while the beginning does not erase the scars of January 1, 2008, it offers a contrast to the images of a burning church that once defined the village.

 “You know what mama Rachael, you could be at the stewardship of matters affecting mothers in our country,” wrote Maryc Bush.