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Author: Kenyaleo Editorial Team

  • Legislators approve mediated Version of Water amendment Bill, 2023

    Legislators approve mediated Version of Water amendment Bill, 2023

    MPs have approved the mediated version of the Water Amendment Bill, (National Assembly Bill No. 33 of 2023), following the adoption of a Report by the Mediation Committee on the Bill. 

    The Water (Amendment) Bill (2023) seeks to amend the Water Act of 2016 by proposing reforms to enhance water service provision by incorporating Public-Private Partnerships and clarifying the roles of water service providers at both national and county levels.

    While moving the motion on the Report, Co-Chair of the Mediation Committee, Marakwet East MP, Kangogo Bowen stated, “One of the contentious clauses was Clause 4 which proposes to transfer national public water works to county governments which the Mediation Committee rejected agreeing that such assets should remain under national jurisdiction to maintain centralized management of large-scale water infrastructure.”

    Bowen also informed the House that the Committee also concurred with the Senate’s suggestion that the Water Services Regulatory Board (WASREB) should play a pivotal role in overseeing bulk water purchase agreements, ensuring that regulatory standards are met in consultation with relevant county governments.

    In its Report, the Mediation Committee highlighted the necessity of maintaining the independence of the Water Services Regulatory Board, particularly in setting national standards for water service provision without the approval of the Cabinet Secretary.

    Majority Whip and South Mugirango MP, Silvanus Osoro lauded the Bill emphasizing the importance of maintaining regulatory autonomy and ensuring that water services across the country adhere to consistent quality and efficiency standards.

    He added, “All Members will agree that water is life and the proposed amendments made are very positive.”

    Speaking in support of the Bill, Seme MP, James Nyikal pointed out the significance of the Water (Amendment) Bill in improving public health says.

    “This is a very important Bill. Water is the greatest determinant of health. If this Bill is implemented correctly we can improve the lives of our people.”

    Dagoretti North MP, Beatrice Elachi called on the Senate to develop regulations to manage water infrastructure referencing Nairobi County saying, “The Senate needs to develop regulations for Water Infrastructure particularly in Nairobi. We need to update water Infrastructure.”

    Additionally, the House noted the Mediation Committee’s concerns over the equitable distribution of funds from the Water Sector Trust Fund, which has historically supported marginalized counties.

    In its Report the Mediation Committee emphasized the importance of safeguarding the integrity of this Fund, ensuring that resources are directed towards counties with the greatest need, and preventing national entities from diverting these critical resources. The Water (Amendment) Bill, (National Assembly Bill No. 33 of 2023) now proceeds to the Senate for concurrence.

  • ??s Push for legal recognition and pay for community health workers in Bill

    ??s Push for legal recognition and pay for community health workers in Bill

    Members of the National Assembly have debated a Bill that seeks legal recognition and support for Community Health Workers.

    Sponsored by Ndhiwa MP Martin Peters Owino, the Community Health Workers Bill, National Assembly Bill No 53 of 2022, seeks to establish a legal framework for the acknowledgment of community health services. Additionally, it aims to extend the government payroll to encompass community health providers presently volunteering without pay.

    The Bill also seeks the establishment of the Community Health Workers Council of Kenya to regulate the workers.

    In the Bill, Owino notes that community health workers play a crucial role in healthcare at the grassroots level of our communities despite not receiving the proper recognition and assistance that they need.

    The Ndhiwa legislator while addressing the House also pointed out that healthcare is particularly challenging in rural areas and, therefore, warrants specific focus and consideration.

    “Community Health Workers are very important as they work directly with the community. The Community health worker knows the homesteads in the area he or she lives in and is familiar with the language of the people and the challenges facing the society,” states Owino.

    He further argues, “It is therefore important to develop a framework for their recognition and regulation so that they are entrenched in the government like other professionals.”

    Seconding the Bill, Seme MP, Dr. James Nyikal stated, “All over the world it is being realized that people in the community have a big part to play in healthcare, for example, traditional midwives have been helping women babies from their homes for years. This is the same with the many others who are informed on health matters and ways of avoiding disease.”

    “It is therefore vital for us to strengthen and capacitate these community health workers. It is important to remember that people get sick at home with the social determinants behind sickness being found in the communities,” added Nyikal.

    Sotik MP, Francis Sigei acknowledged and applauded the role that Community Health Workers play in Society.

    “Hon Speaker, these Health Workers are part of the backbone of our society hence why I call them Health Warriors. They are responsible for making our nation healthy and productive. Without them there to help combat diseases in our communities we would fail”, remarked Sigei.

    Marsabit County MP, Naomi Waqo called on the government to carry out frequent training and develop a curriculum that would be used to carry out the training countrywide.

    “While the qualifications for these Community Health Workers are clearly defined in the Bill, we must make sure that these Health workers consistently receive the requisite training to ensure that they are always relevant to every new challenge that faces our communities,” said Waqo.

    She further called for the distribution of the Community Health Workers Council offices across the country to enhance the nationwide availability of services.

  • Senate Votes to remove Deputy President Gachagua from Office

    Senate Votes to remove Deputy President Gachagua from Office

    The Senate has upheld the National Assembly’s impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and voted to remove him from office.

    The outcome of the vote, taken late in the night, is the first time in Kenya that the Office of the Deputy President has ceased to hold office through a trial borne out of impeachment proceedings.

    The 67 lawmakers of the Senate found the DP guilty on five grounds but absolved him on six charges.

    A total of 54 Senators upheld the first count on gross violation of Articles 10 (2)(a), (b) and (c); 27 (4), 73 (1)(a) and (2)(b); 75 (1)(c), and 129 (2) of the Constitution and Article 147 (1), as read together with Article 131 (2)(c) and (d) of the Constitution. The vote also saw 13 of the lawmakers voted against.

    The House absolved the Deputy President on the second count which was about gross violation of Articles 147 (1) and 152 (1) of the Constitution by undermining the President and the Cabinet and the effective discharge of the national government’s executive mandate. A total of 39 Senators voted against the allegations and 28 in support.

    The lawmakers absolved the second in command of gross violations of Articles 6 (2), 10 (2)(a), 174, 186 (1), and 189 (1) and the Fourth Schedule to the Constitution, which he was accused of undermining Devolution. Forty-five senators voted to save the DP, 19 voted to indict him, and 3 abstained.

    Count five was on gross violation of Article 160(1) of the Constitution on the Institutional and Decisional Independence of Judges. On this, 49 senators voted to send the Deputy President home, 16 voted to save him and 2 abstained.

    “The Senate has resolved to remove from office Deputy President through impeachment and therefore he ceases to hold office,” ruled Speaker Amason Kingi after the final tally.

    The vote came on the second day of the hearing of the impeachment trial and was characterized by drama after the Deputy President was taken ill soon after the end of the morning session.

    The vote was taken without the Deputy President taking the witness stand, after he had taken ill, according to his legal team, led by the Senior Counsel Paul Muite.

    Senior Counsel Muite told the House that the DP had been hospitalized at Karen Hospital after he was admitted for unknown ailments.

    Senior Counsel Muite pleaded with the House to grant his client a five-day grace period so that he could appear on Tuesday, October 22 to defend himself against the 11 allegations.

    However, when the matter was put to the vote, the House rejected the proposal after a brief debate, choosing instead to continue with the trial.

    The National Assembly legal team called three witnesses: Hon Mwengi Mutuse, who was the mover of the motion in the National Assembly, Dr Andrew Mulwa, who had served as acting CEO of the Kenya Medical Supplies Agency and Mr Ahmed Abdi the deputy CEO of the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission.

  • MPs Summons CS Chirchir Over infrastructure and funding Disparities

    MPs Summons CS Chirchir Over infrastructure and funding Disparities

    Collage image of Director General, Kenya Urban Road Authority, Eng. Silas Kinoti. CS Transport, Davis Chirchir, and West Pokot MP and Chairperson Public Investment Committee on Energy.

    The David Pkosing-led Public Investments Committee on Commercial Affairs and Energy has summoned Cabinet Secretary for Roads Mr. Davis Chirchir to appear before the committee next Tuesday, ?? October.

    Pkosing (South Pokot) is seeking clarity on various issues impacting road infrastructure across the country.

    Speaking during a session on Tuesday at Parliament Buildings while examining the audited accounts of the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) for the Financial Years 2020/2021 and 2021/2022 with officials from the agency led by Director General Silas Kinoti.

    The Committee Chairperson emphasized the importance of the CS’s appearance alongside officials from the Kenya Roads Board for a one-hour session focused on key policy matters.

    During the meeting, Pkosing stressed the need for transparency, urging the Cabinet Secretary to present a breakdown of road allocations per constituency saying that the issue extends beyond the current discussion.

    “We cannot conduct an audit without addressing other pressing issues raised by Members. Every Member should be present to voice their concerns to the Cabinet Secretary,” he stated.

    The South Pokot legislator criticized the current Budget Committee, recalling past experiences with its lack of integrity.

    “This is the worst Committee I have encountered in Parliament, I remember during the eleventh parliament we disbanded the then Budget Committee due to integrity issues,” he remarked.

    Hon Adan Keynan remarked ‘’ It’s not going to be business as usual, very soon will be listing those CEOs who have presiding over the abuse of office and I’m willing to do this, please go back to your books”

    He added “How you have used what has been allocated, please let’s get a fair share of what is allocated “

    On roads, KURA is mandated to construct Director General Silas Kinoti said, “We don’t do all municipalities, we do where we have classified urban roads and there is a formula of the classification roads”

    Pkosing however said that there were serious issues to be clarified by the CS in all the road agencies before proceeding with agency audits.

    He noted the need to involve additional agencies, including the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) and the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), to ensure a thorough examination of pending bills and funding sources.

    “We must address serious queries before auditing these agencies,” he added.

    Pkosng directed that a formal invitation be issued to the CS, ensuring his attendance.

    Pkosing sought clarity on the classification of National Urban Roads and their funding allocations, highlighting potential disparities in road distribution between KURA and KeRRA.

    He called for comprehensive statistics on all roads in the country, including a map illustrating their distribution.

    Responding to the Nairobi Outering Road Improvement Project the Auditor general report indicated that the Tassia road section, had open drainages clogged with garbage and overgrown vegetation despite the fact that a firm had been contracted to regularly maintain drains along the road.

    Kinoti replied, ‘’In Nairobi, we have partnered with the County and we only do cleaning and there is a tendency of dumping and the experience we have in Outering is that when the contractor is collecting garbage others do dump as the contractor is working.’’

    The DG added that pending bills have affected the running of activities which has delayed work as the action has led contractors to terminate services because of changes in the prices of materials designated for the projects.

    The Committee chair however condemned the pending bills which have crippled the services in KURA empathizing with the DG, Silas Kinoti.

  • Naivas Partners with Food Banking Kenya in Support of Families on World Food Day

    Naivas Partners with Food Banking Kenya in Support of Families on World Food Day

    In celebration of World Food Day, Naivas Supermarket, a leading supermarket chain and a recognized superbrand in Kenya, has proudly partnered with Food Banking Kenya, a registered NGO, to support families facing food insecurity. This year’s theme, “Right to Food for a Better Life & a Better Future,” resonates deeply with Naivas as it seeks to uplift the local community and ensure no one goes hungry.

    Today, the aim is to reach 800 households from Korogocho and provide essential food items to an estimated 4,000 individuals.

    This initiative underscores the belief that everyone has something to give and that even small acts of kindness can significantly impact those around us. As a brand, Naivas is committed to finding opportunities for such acts, believing that its contributions can turn lives around and foster hope.

    “Buying and selling are the core of any retail business, but at Naivas, we recognize our responsibility to give back to the community,” said Andreas Von Paleske, Chief of Strategy at Naivas.

    “While we may not be able to solve all the world’s challenges, we can certainly do our part. This partnership is just the beginning of our commitment to reducing food waste and loss.” The donation will include essential dry food items such as bread, flour, and milk.

    Looking ahead, Naivas plans to expand its involvement in proactive initiatives aimed at minimizing food waste and supporting sustainable food systems in Kenya. “We are grateful for this partnership with Naivas, which reflects our shared commitment to fighting hunger and promoting food security,” said Moses Nyoro, Business Development Director, Food Banking Kenya.

    “Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of many families.” Naivas encourages everyone to join in this effort, reminding the community that collective action can lead to significant change. As we observe World Food Day, let us all remember the power of generosity and the importance of supporting those in need.

    Naivas is a leading supermarket chain and a recognized super brand in Kenya, dedicated to providing quality products and exceptional service while also giving back to the community. Through various initiatives, Naivas aims to make a positive impact and promote sustainable practices.

    Kenya Food Banking Kenya is a registered NGO focused on alleviating hunger and promoting food security across Kenya. Through partnerships and community engagement, they work tirelessly to support families in need and reduce food waste.

  • KTDA-managed Factories Install Anti-Tampering Gadgets on Greenleaf Weighing Scales

    KTDA-managed Factories Install Anti-Tampering Gadgets on Greenleaf Weighing Scales

    In its continued commitment to improving transparency and fairness in tea production, the Kenya Tea Development Agency has completed the installation of anti-tampering gadgets on green leaf weighing scales across its 71 managed factories.

    These new measures are designed to eliminate any discrepancies in the weighing of Green leaves delivered by over 700,000 smallholder tea farmers at various buying centers.

    The introduction of the anti-tampering technology comes in response to concerns raised by farmers over sporadic cases of tampered scales.

    These issues could potentially lead to inaccuracies in the weight of green leaf recorded, which directly affects farmers’ payments. KTDA recognizes the importance of addressing these concerns and has taken decisive action to ensure transparency and fairness in the process.

    Each weighing scale is now equipped with a cutting-edge anti-tampering device embedded with a GSM card.

    The device is designed to detect any attempts to tamper with the scale and instantly trigger an alert to factory managers and other officials. In the event of any tampering, the system will send real-time alerts, enabling swift action to address the issue.

    “The integrity of the green leaf collection process is central to our mission of serving our smallholder tea farmers. These anti-tampering gadgets will provide peace of mind and ensure that every farmer is fairly compensated for their hard work,” said Collins Bett, Managing Director, KTDA Management Services.

    “We are committed to making the entire tea value chain more transparent and efficient, and this is just one of the many steps we are taking toward this goal.”

    In addition to the anti-tampering gadgets, KTDA continues to implement other technologies and innovations aimed at improving operational efficiency, including the digitization of payment systems and the modernization of factory processes.

    These efforts are part of KTDA’s broader strategy to enhance value for its over 700,000 smallholder farmers, who are the backbone of Kenya’s tea sector.

    The Agency has also rolled out an app and USSD that farmers use to easily access information on their green leaf weight, payments, and information on the tea sector.

    KTDA remains dedicated to maintaining trust with its farmers and stakeholders and will continue to take steps to ensure the smooth and transparent operation of all aspects of tea production.

    About KTDA-MS

    KTDA-MS Ltd is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) Holdings Ltd. Its role is to manage tea factories owned by 54 factory companies that are the shareholders of KTDA Holdings Company Ltd.

  • MPs considers Senate Amendments to the Division of Revenue amendment Bill, 2024

    MPs considers Senate Amendments to the Division of Revenue amendment Bill, 2024

    The Ndindi Nyoro-led Budget and Appropriations Committee has met to consider Senate Amendments to the Division of Revenue (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

    The Division of Revenue (Amendment) Bill (National Assembly Bills No. 38 of 2024), seeks to amend the Division of Revenue Act, 2024, to revise the sharing of the revenue raised nationally between the National and County Governments, to reflect the downward revision of projected ordinary revenue collection for the Financial Year 2024/25.

    The shortfall as proposed in the Bill amounts to Kshs. 346 billion, occasioned by the failure to enact the Finance Bill, 2024 into law.

    The sharing of the Kshs. 346B shortfall between the two levels of government is indicated as Kshs. 325.88B to be borne by the National Government and Kshs. 20.12 billion to be reduced from the County Equitable Share.

    The new allocation for the National Government was proposed to be Kshs. 2.214 trillion, down from Kshs. 2.540 trillion, while that of the County Government was adjusted to Kshs. 380 billion, down from Kshs. 400.117 billion.

    In the Bill, it was observed that the Kshs. 380 billion as an equitable share to Counties was 24.2 percent of the last audited and approved government revenues for the Financial Year 2020/21, hence meeting the constitutional threshold of 15 percent as per article 203(2).

    During the meeting, Hon. Nyoro noted that this Bill is being considered after the Supplementary Estimates I were passed and signed into law, hence the need to consider our fiscal status.

    “We have already passed Supplementary 1 with the Equalization Fund as it was then and therefore, whatever we discuss today has to be in that context.” Said Ndindi Nyoro.

    Members also discussed the implications the Senate Amendments to the Division of Revenue Bill would have on Supplementary II Estimates.

    The Committee shall have two options; to pass the Bill as amended by the Senate, or to reject the amendments and have the Bill referred to a Mediation Committee under Article 113 of the Constitution.

    The Committee is scheduled to Table the report on Tuesday next week in the National Assembly.

  • Standard Chartered Marathon Raises Over KES 173 million

    Standard Chartered Marathon Raises Over KES 173 million

    BY KEVIN SEWE

    The 21st edition of the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon has received over KES 173 million in support from sponsors ahead of the race, which is set for October 27, 2024, at Uhuru Gardens.This substantial support, comprising both cash and in-kind contributions, promises to enhance the experience for participants and further empower community initiatives. Since its inception, the event has attracted over 300,000 runners, cementing its status as one of the region’s premier athletic events.

    “We are excited to collaborate with our sponsors to promote community engagement, boost local economic growth and empower youth through the FutureMakers initiative by Standard Chartered. Proceeds from the marathon help young people—especially women and persons with disabilities—learn, earn, and grow,” said Peter Gitau, Chair of the local organizing committee, Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon.

    The marathon has attracted more than 40 sponsors and partners, an increase from 30 sponsprs in 2023, reflecting a collective commitment to transforming lives, nurturing talent, and fostering sports globally.Standard Chartered has made a significant contribution of KES 100 million towards the event.

    Prudential Insurance has contributed KES 10 million as the official sponsor for the 5KM Family Fun Run in cash and in-kind support, playing a crucial role in ensuring comprehensive insurance coverage for all participants.”By partnering with the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon, we reinforce our commitment to initiatives that positively impact communities. Our goal is not only to support emerging and elite athletes in launching their international careers but also to inspire families to embrace a culture of fitness and well-being,” said Gwen Kinisu, CEO, Prudential.

    Stanchart Marathon aims to promote Diversity and Inclusion within and beyond the event. It is the only marathon in the country that has a special category for persons with disability(PWDs).

  • Madaraka Express passenger train introduces premium class services

    Madaraka Express passenger train introduces premium class services

    By Vincent Munga

    Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC) has onboarded premium class coaches that will operate on the standard gauge railway (SGR) Madaraka Express passenger train.

    According to Ministry of Roads and Transport CS Davis Chirchir, the services will be useful to customers on a working trip since the coaches are designed to allow them to work at the same time have a rest.

    The service has also considered efficiency, comfort, luxury, safety, security, and convenience.

    Earlier, Chirchir had toured the Nairobi Commuter Rail (NCR) Service stations to assess the services offered.

    He pointed at ticketing, rehabilitation of rails, and furnishing the terminals with modern facilities as short-term remedies to improve the services of at least 20,000 commuters who use train services daily.

    “Construction of new 58-kilometre rail at Sh65 billion that is expected to transport at least 100,000 commuters daily will be operational by 2025,” he said.

    To achieve the decongestion of Nairobi city has been a menace, the government is also working on comfort and convenience so that Nairobi residents can embrace rail transport.

  • Nationwide Public Participation on Gachagua Impeachment Marred by Chaos and Controversy

    Nationwide Public Participation on Gachagua Impeachment Marred by Chaos and Controversy

    Public participation nationwide exercise across all 290 constituencies where Kenyans were given a platform to voice their opinions on the high-stakes impeachment which was initiated by Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse.

    The process has been conducted at designated centers in the 47 counties countrywide.

    Previously, a last-minute legal challenge filed in court aiming to halt the proceedings was dismissed on Wednesday, clearing the path for public consultations.

    Public Participation at Bomas ended amid Controversies where blows and kicks were witnessed especially when Morara Kebaso was guaranteed his entry to the social hall to air his views.

    Public participation at Bomas in Nairobi officially concluded at around mid-day, with hundreds turning up to voice their opinions on Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment.

    Members of parliament and MCAs who sought anonymity raised concerns about the abrupt dismissal of the exercise at the Bomas of Kenya where there have been critics questioning whether Parliament upheld the standard for genuine, meaningful public participation.

    Clashes Break Out in Bomas as Participation Turns Violent as tensions flared as public participation at Bomas spiraled into disorder. Supporters and detractors of both parties clashed violently, chanting rival slogans of “Ruto must go” and “Gachagua must go.”

    Punches and kicks were thrown, chairs were hurled at each other, and confusion reigned as the two sides descended into a brawl.

    Kebaso Morara, the lawyer turned activist was at the center of the chaos with goons attacking the political figurehead who is quickly gaining popularity.

    The chaos erupted after activist lawyer Morara Kebaso arrived with a group of youths, prompting a section of attendees to react violently.

    Security personnel had to swiftly intervene, ejecting Morara and restoring a fragile order. The exercise continued, though the atmosphere remained volatile.

    Later after the adjournment of the exercise, the Morara Kebaso contingent returned to Bomas of Kenya which forced several MPs to free the area and end the exercise within the planned schedule.

    MPs led by Tom Kajwang, TJ, and Dagoreti South Mp John Kiarie, KJ were seen fleeing the area and sneaking out of the area securing their safety from the rowdy crowd.

    Participants expressed their views saying, ‘’ If Gachagua is to go, let William Ruto also go.’’

    They added their frustrations saying it was an exercise of time wasting for ending the exercise prematurely.

    Charles Omondi said. ‘’What was the essence of this exercise if you decided to waste our time and adjourn the planned national event to chaos, I’m saddened with the whole plans of today, it’s a sad day for this country.’’

    In Nakuru, chaos erupted during the public participation exercise as residents took to the streets, rejecting the process, and calling it fraudulent.

    Chanting “No Gachagua, no Ruto,” the protestors disrupted the ASK showgrounds participation event, accusing organizers of distributing fake documents.

    The exercise was abruptly halted as police officers on-site fled the scene.

    In other areas, Nyahururu residents blocked a major highway in protest of the impeachment process, lighting bonfires and barricading roads leading to Nyeri town. “No Rigathi, no Ruto,” echoed through the streets as protestors expressed their unwavering support for Gachagua. The residents accused the National Assembly of attempting to destabilize the region’s political leadership. Although police officers intervened to clear the roads, the defiant residents vowed to continue their demonstrations, demanding the public participation exercise be halted.

    In Machakos, Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua took a bold stance in Machakos, leading the public participation against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua with the rallying cry, “Gachagua must go!” 

    Mutua a sharp critique of the current leadership to Gachagua “We are not happy. Since President William Ruto took office, Ukambani has been left behind. All development has been tied to shareholder politics,” Mutua declared.