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Author: Kenyaleo Editorial Team

  • Interior PS Defends ODM Luo MPs Meeting President, Questions Party’s Double Standards

    Interior PS Defends ODM Luo MPs Meeting President, Questions Party’s Double Standards

    Interior PS Dr Raymond Omollo at a past function.Image: COURTESY
    Interior PS Dr Raymond Omollo at a past function.

    Interior PS Raymond Omollo has defended ODM Luo MPs who recently met with the President at the State House.

    He has raised questions, expressing his confusion about why these MPs face repercussions within the ODM Party for collaborating with the President, especially when other ODM leaders, including Raila Odinga, have also met with him.

    Speaking during an address in Uriri, Dr. Omollo emphasized that it seems unfair that only Luo Nyanza region’s ODM lawmakers are penalized for engaging with President William Ruto, even though leaders from other regions have similar interactions without consequences.

    Dr. Omollo made these remarks during a Sunday event at St. Mary’s Uriri Catholic Church in Uriri constituency, where he attended a fundraiser organized by MP Mark Nyamita.

    He shared his observations that when Nyanza MPs or MCAs visit his Harambee House office for work-related matters, they often end up being expelled from ODM.

    “Whenever lawmakers from our region are seen with the President it usually is an issue yet MPs from other regions, also elected on ODM (when they do the same) are not touched. MCAs from our home, if they are seen at my workplace, they are expelled yet I am a government worker. Those in Kisumu were kicked out, Homabay and Migori too,” PS Omoloo said.

    Omollo further suggested that there’s a possibility that some leaders in Luo Nyanza have elevated themselves to a point where they believe their constituents don’t deserve better treatment.

    The Interior PS, who was joined by National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, Health CS Susan Nakhumicha, and Suba South MP Caroli Omondi, also disclosed that despite ODM publicly criticizing Luo MPs for collaborating with the President, ODM’s own Governors in Migori, Siaya, Kisumu, and Homa Bay counties maintain a friendly relationship with President Ruto. This includes Mr. Odinga, who had a meeting with President Ruto in Mombasa.

    “We have elevated some of us to an extent that they look down upon us. We have been slaves to some people to the extent they think we do not deserve anything. It is the only truth we must say so as to acquire meaningful development and change for our region.” PS Omollo poised.

    Honorable Nyamita and his colleagues came to the State House to see the President. Then he (the President) came here and even the Governor of Migori went to see him. Even followed him to Kisumu. Homabay Governor followed him to Kisumu. The Governor of Kisumu hosted him in Kisumu for the three days he was in Kisumu. The Siaya Governor too, including our regional leader you all respect so much, followed him to Mombasa at midnight,” Dr. Omollo added.

    The Interior PS urged leaders from the Luo Nyanza region to accept and collaborate with the government, emphasizing that this approach is the only means to access the resources and support provided by the national government. He conveyed the message that the region should not persist in rejecting the present administration if it wishes to enjoy the same benefits as all other regions.

    “If anyone is telling you not to participate in government programs, you need to tell them that that is not how to build a cohesive country.” Dr. Omollo asked.

    Polititcal ananlysts are predicting that the future for the PS is glithering as it was witnessed on sunday that the Luo Nyanza will be taken by storm saying that Babu Owino has already taken the mantle as Interior PS Raymond Omollo is also closely monitoring.

  • Kenya Parliament to host the African Climate Parliamentary dialogue

    Kenya Parliament to host the African Climate Parliamentary dialogue

    The Parliament of Kenya PHOTO/File
    The Parliament of Kenya PHOTO/File

    The Parliament of Kenya will tomorrow (Wednesday) host the Africa Climate Change Parliamentary Dialogue, Speakers of the two Houses said in a joint statement released on Tuesday.

    Parliamentarians drawn from across the country and who are attending the Inaugural African Climate Summit at Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) have been invited for the Parliamentary Dialogue by Speakers of both Houses.

    Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Moses Wetang’ula (National Assembly) and Rt. Hon. Amason Kingi (Senate) will preside.

    In their Communication to the Parliamentarians, the two Speakers noted the importance of Parliaments in forging consensus on the modalities of unlocking Africa’s vast potential to positively impact the climate agenda and rally the world to tap the numerous opportunities that the Continent presents towards global net-zero ambition.

    “The role of Parliaments in Climate Change agenda cannot be overstated and we, therefore, consider it expedient to convene a Dialogue for Parliamentarians on the sidelines of the Summit,” the Speakers’ statement reads in part.

    They explained that the role of the Dialogue Session is to convene leading African Parliamentarians responsible for climate action in their respective Parliaments to deliberate on the role of Parliaments in achieving the outcome of the Summit.

    “The Dialogue will deliberate on areas for capacity-building of Parliamentarians in providing effective oversight for implementation of the climate actions,” they observed.

    The Speakers noted that the Dialogue will culminate in the adoption of Parliamentarians’ statement at the African Climate Summit.

  • Stephen Obewo, The Siaya Man Creating Jobs Through Manufacturing

    Stephen Obewo, The Siaya Man Creating Jobs Through Manufacturing

    When you visit Siaya County, and especially Siaya Town, the air you inhale will most certainly resonate with the brilliance of one gentleman, witty and endowed with Solomonic wisdom.

    The man who decided he won’t just sit down and wait for magic to happen.

    Cognizant and alive to the fact that unemployment is a thorn in the flesh of most youths, Mr Stephen Obewo, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Nambole Traders, hatched a plan to start manufacturing.

    Through the courtesy and wise guidance by Epic Business Tours, Mr Stephen Obewo, flew to China to assess the best industry he can venture into and create employment back home.

    After a thorough research and sufficing paperwork, it was time for rubber to meet the road.

    He imported state of the art machines that specializes in manufacture of chain link, barbed wire and nails.

    So to speak, Mr. Stephen Obewo is now the biggest single local employer in Siaya County, and also the name Nambole Traders is a household name.

    Epic Business Tours took us through the state of the art Nambole Traders industry and it’s a masterpiece to reckon with.

    The air is pleasant on this beautiful Saturday, the sun blissfully kissing the earth that is still damp from yesternight’s downpour.

    A very hearty, warm and charismatic Mr Mustapha, the production manager was at hand to take us through. The machines are roaring heavily whilst at the other end emitting the gem – that is the finished product.

    Stephen Obewo meticulously manufactures customized and top notch materials both for construction and fencing.

    The workers clad in their overalls are glued to the machines, feeding them minute by minute, carefully checking that everything is fine.

    It’s true that their Team Leader, Mr. Stephen Obewo who also doubles up as the Chairman of Kenya national chamber of commerce and industry Siaya Chapter.

    Mr. Obewo was at the time away on official duty in the Democratic Republic of Congo, or Congo Brazzaville, where he had accompanied KNCCI President Dr Eric Rutto for an official function.

    However, Mr Mustapha ably represented him and the whole industry tour was a great success.

    We wish Mr. Stephen Obewo nothing but God’s favour, good health of body and mind and God’s immeasurable blessings.

    Nambole Traders can be reached through the contact numbers 0723572344, 0750800333.

  • Kenya Education Fund Welcomes Lions share in education budget

    Kenya Education Fund Welcomes Lions share in education budget

    Kenya Education Fund has welcomed the move by the government to allocate lions share of the national budget to education.

    “”The lion’s share of the budget allocation for education, particularly focused on improving Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), is a commendable initiative. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that there is still a significant gap in terms of infrastructure development. Many schools, especially boarding high schools, are currently overburdened with high student populations, leading to increased maintenance costs and a decline in hygiene standards across these institutions.

    Allocating only 2.8 billion towards infrastructure improvements is insufficient to address this pressing issue comprehensively. While the allocation for teacher training is a step in the right direction, it is essential to recognize the severe disadvantage faced by junior high school students. The current situation, where some schools have only one qualified teacher responsible for teaching nearly 14 subjects, demands urgent attention. Failure to address this matter promptly will result in a significant number of students being deprived of a quality education.

    It is imperative for the authorities to prioritize the enhancement of infrastructure and the allocation of additional resources to ensure optimal learning conditions for all students. Only by addressing these challenges can we prevent a potential waste of talent and secure a brighter future for our youth.”

  • Maridady Motors Sacco has been feted for exemplary performance.

    Maridady Motors Sacco has been feted for exemplary performance.

    Maridady Motors Participated in the Ushirika Day Celebration on Saturday and Maridady Motors Sacco emerged as the Top growing sacco for Sustainable development, in Kiambu County.

    In a humble acceptance message the managing director noted.

    Thank you to all our members for helping us expand our service.

    “You have continued to trust our processes as we move your status.Together we can do great things.”

    Together we can do more.
    In future we are looking at more exponential growth and service delivery to our clients

  • Wanjiku Muhia: The True Leader Who is The Voice of the Voiceless

    Wanjiku Muhia: The True Leader Who is The Voice of the Voiceless

    Many know her as Kipipiri Member of Parliament (MP), serving after her previous representation at East Africa Legislative Assembly (EALA).
    Wanjiku is one leader who takes her legislative and representation duties diligently, with zeal and courage.
    She has been a champion of the Voiceless especially the differently abled who include persons living with disabilities, including intellectual disabilities.
    Wanjiku is the architect of different pieces of legislation centrally designed to dignify the PwDs. For instance, she is celebrated for midwiving the implementation of the law for persons with disabilities. The law stipulates that all TV stations must provide a sign language interpreter for the news and other necessary programmes geared towards including the persons with hearing impairment.
    She is also piecing together another law that of passed by Parliament will reinforce the dignity of persons with disabilities.
    “This will spur their inclusion in various aspects. For example when they are going out to look for employment, their cover letter should act as a document to propel them towards such opportunities. The law seeks to omit degrading words like “mentally disabled” from identification documents of PwDs because such might trigger contempt.”
    Hon Wanjiku on Monday Joined students at Kenya Community Centre for Learning (KCCL) in creating awareness and the need for inclusivity.
    She also congratulated a team that represented Kenya at the Berlin special Olympics and said that she is very committed to bring the plight of the institutionz that handle children with disabilities.
    “The few facilities that exist are either underfunded or reliant on well-wishers or donors. Like this Kenya community Centre for learning is parent owned and lacks government funding to be able to run day to day activities. If anchored in law, these institutions will be fully capacitated in a bid to enhance them with facilitation to better handle pwds,”

  • APBET Schools Solidify Their Push For Inclusion

    APBET Schools Solidify Their Push For Inclusion

    The implementation of the Free Primary Education (FPE) program in 2003 and Free Day Secondary Education (FDSE) in 2008 has led to a significant increase in the number of children attending school in Kenya. The student population grew from 6.7 million in 2003 to over 12 million in 2015. However, despite this progress, there were still approximately 1.9 million primary school children aged 6-13 years and 2.7 million children aged 14-17 years who were out of school, as reported by the Kenya Household Population Census (KHPC) in 2009.

     

    Furthermore, the 2007 Kenya National Adult Literacy survey revealed that 7.8 million Kenyans were illiterate, with individuals aged 15-30 years accounting for 35% of the illiterate population. This issue is particularly pronounced in informal urban settlements, arid and semi-arid lands, and impoverished areas throughout the country. In response to the educational needs of those unable to join formal institutions, Alternative Provision of Basic Education and Training (APBET) institutions have emerged as viable alternatives.

    While the government acknowledges the crucial role of APBET in improving access to basic education, especially in marginalized areas and informal settlements, these institutions have not been officially recognized by the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology (MoE) due to their failure to meet the registration requirements imposed on conventional schools, such as acreage, staffing, and facilities. Consequently, over half a million children, youth, and adults are receiving education in institutions operating informally. Sir Moses Wokono, the National Chairman of the Unified Apbet Schools Association (UASA), emphasized this point during the launch of UASA-SCCO.

     

    According to the Kenyan Constitution (2010), Article 43 guarantees the right to education for every individual, while Article 53(b) specifically states that every child has the right to free and compulsory basic education. The Basic Education Act of 2013, Section 39(c), enacts this provision and mandates the Cabinet Secretary to ensure that children from marginalized, vulnerable, or disadvantaged groups are not discriminated against or hindered from pursuing and completing their basic education. Section 95(3) (i) and (j) of the Act also empowers the Cabinet Secretary to establish regulations pertaining to the conduct and management of schools, classification criteria for schools, provisions for different types of schools, as well as imposing conditions and granting exemptions.

     

    Sir Moses urged the Ministry of Education to incorporate APBET Schools as a third category of schools in the Education Act. This legal recognition would enable APBET Schools to operate lawfully, and their registration guidelines should be made feasible and practical.

     

    A meeting was held at The Excellence, an exemplary APBET School located in Gatina, Dagoretti. Attendees included Hon. Anthony Oluoch, Member of Parliament for Mathare; Madam Salome Wenyaa, Nairobi Region RDQAS; Mr. Raphael Musy, SCDE Dagoretti; Mr. Johnson Akongo, Nairobi County Licensing Officer; Mr. Johson Shisanya from Each Rights, Beacon of Hope, and EduAID; as well as representatives from UASA-K NEC officials.

     

    Hon. Oluoch pledged to advocate for the inclusion of APBET Schools in the Education Act and urged the Nairobi Government to consider APBET learners for the porridge and feeding program.

     

    Mr. Akongo, the Nairobi County Licensing Officer, confirmed the Governor’s commitment to reduce the business licenses for APBET schools from Kshs. 10,000 to Kshs. 3,000. He assured that this reduction has already been considered and is included in the current finance bill.

     

    Madam Salome Wenyaa, the Nairobi Region RQASO, emphasized the importance of quality teaching in all APBET Schools. She advised the directors of APBET Schools to ensure their learners’ active participation in extracurricular activities and reminded them of the ongoing music festival.

     

    Sir Christopher Barassa, representing the Unified Apbet Schools Association of Kenya, expressed gratitude for the partners’ dedication to the recognition of APBET Schools.

    Dr. Paul K. Wanjohi, the Association Treasurer, advised APBET Schools to seize the opportunity presented by the SACCO launch and begin saving immediately.

     

    There is a pressing need to officially recognize APBET Schools in order to bridge the educational gap for marginalized communities in Kenya. Legal recognition will ensure that these institutions can operate within the framework of the Education Act, allowing them to provide education to a significant number of children, youth, and adults who are currently being educated in informal settings.

  • World Scout Parliamentary Union Africa Assembly

    World Scout Parliamentary Union Africa Assembly

    Kenya will for the first time play host to the World Scouts Parliamentary Union, Africa Assembly, 2023 starting tomorrow, Wednesday 21st June, 2023 to Saturday, 24th June, 2023 in Nyeri County.

    The conference themed “?????????? ??????? ???????????????? ??? ????ℎ ?? ??????? ?ℎ???? ?????????? ?ℎ????ℎ ????????” is expected to attract over 400 delegates drawn from different countries including; Korea, South Sudan, Malawi, Burundi, Tunisia and Morocco.

    Hon. John Kiarie MP, WSPU Kenya President this morning led the Korean delegation chaired by Hon. Gyu Back AHN, WSPU Presidentto, to pay a courtesy call on the Speaker of the National Assembly, the Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Moses Wetang’ula in his capacity as the Patron of the Association ahead of tomorrow’s opening of the World Scouts Parliamentary Union, Africa Assembly 2023.

    Hon. Gyu Back AHN expressed his gratitude to the Speaker for the support he accorded the Kenyan delegation that attended the 10th General Assembly in Jeonju Korea in 2022. He further appreciated the role played by Parliament and the government of Kenya to strengthen the scouting Agenda in the country affirming that Kenya and Korea shared a cordial relationship hence being strengthened by the scouting activities. He called upon the Speaker to continue supporting the association indicating the hosting the WSPU 11th General Assembly required a lot of preparations and resources.

    On his part, Hon. John Kiarie MP, WSPU Kenya President noted that plans had been competed for the World Scouts Parliamentary Union, Africa Assembly 2023 to be hosted in Nyeri from tomorrow. He assured the delegation that the WSPU Kenyan chapter was on top gear in readiness for the WSPU 11th General Assembly in Nairobi, 2025.

    Speaker Wetang’ula appreciated the visit by the Korean delegation terming it friendly and constructive in advancing the Friendship between Kenya and Korea both at Parliamentary and National level.

    The Speaker informed the delegation that the choice of Nyeri was a unique venue for the conference being the home of the founder movement.

    “I am proud of the work of the WSPU and as the Patron, I visited Nyeri to check on the preparations of the WSPU Africa Assembly and met with the Leadership of Nyeri. I therefore assure you of a great experience as Nyeri is the home of the founder of the Scouts movement, Robert Baden – Powell”, said Speaker.

    Dr. Wetang’ula welcomed the delegation and those arriving for the conference to Kenya and Nyeri in particular where the World Scouts Parliamentary Union, Africa Assembly 2023 is set to take place.

    He further assured the delegation of his unqualified support to the activities of the association in Kenya and the globe.

    The Korea delegation included; Ambassador, H.S. Mr. Yeonghan CHOI, Hon. Hye Sook JEON, Korea Scout Parliamentary Association Vice-President & WSPU Consultant, Mr. Yong Tak CHO, Secretary General of WSPU, Mr. Hyuk PARK, Scout Leader & Interpreter
    The Kenyan delegation consisted of ; Hon. Innocent Mugabe MP, WSPU Africa Assembly Chair, Sen. Tabitha Mutinda MP WAPU Kenya 1st Vice President, Hon. Dr. Wilberfoce Ojiambo MP, WSPU Kenya and Kenya Scouts Liasion Chair, Poppins Misoi, WSPU Kenya Executive Director.

  • KEPROBA Heightens The Made In Kenya Initiative

    KEPROBA Heightens The Made In Kenya Initiative

    Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency supports the Made in Kenya initiative to promote and enhance the competitiveness of Kenyan products both locally and internationally.

    The Agency strives to diversify Kenya’s export base, increase export volumes, and expand the country’s export markets. It works closely with various stakeholders, including exporters, industry associations, local manufacturers, government agencies, and international partners, to achieve these goals. – Celestine Rono Ag. Director Strategy and Planning, Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency
    In a one on one with Acting Chief Executive Officer Floice Mukabana notes,
    “The Agency has been actively working with local supermarkets to raise awareness about the MadeInKenya initiative.

    The Made in Kenya campaign aims at:
    ?Enabling consumers locally and abroad to immediately identify a product as Kenyan and then associate the product with quality and authentic Kenyan value.
    ?Creating a strong brand proposition for Kenyan-made goods and services centred on quality and authenticity.
    ?Enhancing the competitiveness of Kenyan products in the local, regional and global markets. –

  • Lagdera MP calls for enhanced security in land dispute attacks in border town of Kambi Samaki area

    Lagdera MP calls for enhanced security in land dispute attacks in border town of Kambi Samaki area

    Lagdera Member of Parliament Hon. Abdikari Hussein Mohamed
    Lagdera Member of Parliament Hon. Abdikari Hussein Mohamed

    Lagdera Member of Parliament Hon. Abdikari Hussein Mohamed has condemned the killing of two people in the Kambi Samaki area, which is located on the border of Isiolo and Garissa Counties.

    In light of the recent wave of banditry attacks in the region, Mr. Mohamed has called upon the government to reassure Lagdera residents of their security. He accused unidentified individuals of orchestrating the dawn attack, claiming that their motive was to force the local inhabitants off the land in order to receive compensation.

    Addressing a press conference at Parliament Buildings on Tuesday, Mohamed stated, “Last night (Sunday), my people in Lagdera constituency were attacked, resulting in fatalities. This same village was targeted in 2021, and 21 people lost their lives. The attackers are driven by an expansionist ideology aimed at displacing my people from this road to pave the way for their compensation.”

    He added, “This village is located along the Garbatulla-Mandera road, which lies between Isiolo County and Garissa County. This road serves as the gateway to the Horn of Africa and is being constructed by KENHA. They want to remove my people from this land so that they can take over and claim compensation from the government.”

    While strongly condemning this heinous act, Mohamed called upon the police to investigate the individuals responsible for the attack, as well as those seeking to forcibly evict his constituents from the land they have inhabited for over 40 years. He expressed concern over the withdrawal of the local chief, leaving the residents vulnerable to banditry.

    “It appears that the government is succumbing to the demands of the bandits,” Mohamed remarked. He urged his constituents not to retaliate but to maintain peace and the good relationship that has existed between Garissa County and Isiolo County. Furthermore, he appealed to the government to deploy additional police officers and National Police Reservists (NPRs) to ensure the security of the residents.

    “I implore the government to retain the police officers and increase their numbers to protect the people, as they are unable to defend themselves. It is the government’s responsibility to safeguard them,” he emphasized.