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  • MPs Call for Collaboration urging Kenyatta University to Halt Hospital Takeover and Prioritize Student Benefits

    MPs Call for Collaboration urging Kenyatta University to Halt Hospital Takeover and Prioritize Student Benefits

    Dr. Robert Pukose, Endebess MP and Chair of the National Assembly Committee on Health, Prof. Olive Mugenda, Board Chairman of the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral & Research Hospital, and Ahmed Dagane, the Chief Executive Officer, are pictured during the committee's visit to the institution.
    Dr. Robert Pukose, Endebess MP and Chair of the National Assembly Committee on Health, Prof. Olive Mugenda, Board Chairman of the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral, & Research Hospital, and Ahmed Dagane, the Chief Executive Officer, are pictured during the committee’s visit to the institution.

    The National Assembly’s Health Committee Instructs Kenyatta University Management to Cease Consideration of Reverting Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral, and Research Hospital (KUTRRH) Ownership.

    MPs instructed the University Vice Chancellor, Paul Wainana, to cooperate with the hospital management to benefit students in the schools of medicine, nursing, pharmacy, public health, and dentistry.

    The university’s vice chancellor, Prof. Paul Wainana, and the hospital’s board chairperson, Prof. Olive Mugenda, engage in public dispute over hospital management rights.

    “To revert KUTRRH to Kenyatta University, it would therefore be mandatory to revoke the legal notice No. 4 of 2019 governing its establishment. Which will not be possible, university management must leave with the fact that KUTRRH is a state department under the Ministry of Health, therefore, oversight by this committee,” said Endebess MP Dr. Robert Pukose, Chairperson of the Health Committee.

    “It is the health committee that appropriates money to KUTRRH while our sister committee on education oversees and appropriates funds to Kenyatta University, so the feuding must end and everyone must respect his space,” Dr. Pukose added.

    Dr. Pukose spoke today during the fact-finding mission at KUTRRH to assess its capacity and services, particularly in the realm of cancer treatment and diagnosis.

    The committee visit aimed to evaluate the hospital’s infrastructure, technology, expertise, and patient care practices in managing cancer diseases.

    “The committee has observed with great pleasure that the hospital boasts of modern infrastructure and facilities tailored to cancer treatment and diagnosis. This includes advanced imaging equipment, radiation therapy facilities, and specialized oncology units,” said Dr. Pukose.

    “We want you to remain in the realm of cancer treatment and diagnosis because you are recognized as a specialized hospital at level six hospital, many Kenyans now depend on you and we don’t want you to veer off from that trajectory,” he added.

    Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral, & Research Hospital offers a holistic approach to cancer care, encompassing prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment, and palliative care.

    In his remarks, Patrick Munene, the Chuka/Igambang’ombe MP and vice-chairperson of the committee, commended the hospital management for their holistic approach to cancer care, praising the integration of diverse medical specialties and supportive services aimed at delivering comprehensive care to cancer patients.

    “We are happy that the hospital has assembled a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals specializing in oncology, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgical oncologists, pathologists, and supportive care specialists. This expertise ensures that patients receive personalized and evidence-based care tailored to their specific needs,” said Munene.

    Kisumu Central MP Joshua Oron advocates for increased investment in research, clinical trials, and advanced technologies to improve cancer treatment outcomes and drive medical innovation.

    Nandi Women representative Cynthia Muge-Rotich acknowledged efforts by the hospital to enhance the accessibility and affordability of cancer care services.

    “Initiatives such as subsidized treatment programs, partnerships with insurance providers, and community outreach programs aim to mitigate financial barriers and ensure equitable access to quality cancer care,” said Muge.

    Prof. Olive Mugenda, Chair of the KUTRRH Board, expressed gratitude to the committee for their unwavering support for the institution. She assured the committee of the hospital management’s steadfast dedication to its mandate.

    Despite the hospital’s commendable efforts, the committee identified challenges such as limited resources, workforce shortages, and infrastructure constraints.

    Proposals were put forward to tackle these issues, encompassing heightened government funding, initiatives to bolster capacity, and fostering strategic partnerships with academic institutions and international organizations.

  • Opposition MPs Denounce the government’s Pledge on School fund Disbursement, saying it is empty promises

    Opposition MPs Denounce the government’s Pledge on School fund Disbursement, saying it is empty promises

    From left, sitting Robert Mbui, Kathiani Mp, and Deputy Leader of Minority in the National Assembly. James Opiyo Wandayi, Minority Leader in the National Assembly. Makali Mulu Kitui Central, MP
    From left, sitting Robert Mbui, Kathiani Mp, and Deputy Leader of Minority in the National Assembly. James Opiyo Wandayi, Minority Leader in the National Assembly. Makali Mulu Kitui Central, MP

    Opposition MPs have dismissed the announcement by the government on Monday that it will disburse the outstanding capitation funds to public schools in the next 10 days.

    MPs allied to the Azimio La Umoja Coalition termed the promise a “game of lies” and called on teachers and parents to overcome fear and speak out boldly for Kenyan children whose future is being stolen by the government.

    At a press conference in parliament buildings, the company of twelve MPs said they have lost count of the numerous times such promises have been made since the Kenya Kwanza regime took over.

    “No plausible reason has been given as to why funds that should have been disbursed at the beginning of the term are only being disbursed towards the end of the term,” said National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi.

    The MPs faulted the Ministry of Education, accusing it of setting up school heads for ridicule, failure, and blame.

    “In this game of lies, our children are collateral,’’ said Wandayi.

    The MPs were reacting to a statement attributed to PS Kipsang when he told the Public Accounts Committee of the National Assembly on Monday that the government will next week release Sh16.25 billion toward free secondary education capitation.

    PS Kipsang, who had appeared before the Committee and responded to audit queries for the year ended June 30, 2022, noted that the government allocated Sh65 billion for free secondary education capitation in the current financial year.

    However, the Azimio team expressed dissatisfaction with the promise, saying that whenever the fee disbursement queries are raised, the government manages the school heads and the public by issuing statements that monies are set to be released to schools.

    “Whenever the Ministry of Education has come under pressure over the disbursement of funds to schools, they do what they did yesterday; they assemble the media, put together some figures, and announce that the money will be released the following week. Most times, it never gets done, and when it is done, it is never sufficient,’’ said Wandayi.

    The MPs challenged the government to deliver on the accrued promises in the education sector, noting that it is the cause of the difficulties Kenyan parents are going through.

    “We are here to call out the government on the lies that have now crippled schools and exposed otherwise innocent principals and teachers to the wrath of parents and learners who buy into government lies that funds have been released to schools and other learning institutions,” said the statement.

    Kitui Central MP Makali Mulu challenged the government to give clarity and a way forward on matters of free education due to the prevailing situation in the education sector.

    “We are challenging the Kenya Kwanza regime to come out and tell Kenyans whether it has done away with free primary and free secondary education because, from the look of things, this seems to be the case,” Mulu said.

  • Naivas unveils 3rd Annual seasonal campaign amidst economic strains

    Naivas Supermarket has proudly announced the launch of the third edition of their highly anticipated seasonal campaign. Designed to resonate authentically with Kenyan values while offering unforgettable experiences, this campaign aims to surpass customer expectations.

    Amidst challenging economic times, with inflation burdening Kenyan households and global supply chain disruptions escalating costs, Naivas recognizes the pressing need to support its customers. Rodney Wood, Chief Commercial Officer, emphasized the company’s commitment to providing the best value for money. He stated, “As a homegrown brand dedicated to improving lives, we are determined to exceed expectations and alleviate the strain on our customers.”

    Building on the success of previous years, Naivas pledges to further enhance customer experience by offering even larger shopping baskets. This initiative aims to assist shoppers in navigating these challenging times with greater ease. Peter Mukuha, Naivas Chief of Operations, explained, “Our ‘NAIVAS KIKAPU KIBONGE SUPAA SAFARI’ campaign reflects our dedication to serving as the dependable big brother for Kenyan consumers.”

    Recognizing the importance of collaboration, Naivas has partnered with suppliers to ensure customers enjoy exceptional value across all product categories, including fresh produce, groceries, household items, and electronics. Mukuha emphasized, “By working together, we can ensure that our customers receive unparalleled benefits throughout the campaign.”

    With 103 outlets nationwide, Naivas remains committed to providing accessible and affordable shopping solutions for every Kenyan household. As the campaign unfolds, Naivas invites customers to experience the journey of “big shopping” the Naivas Kilocol way.

    “In a period marked by economic uncertainty, Naivas stands firm in its pledge to support Kenyan families, ensuring that each customer leaves with a truly fulfilling shopping experience,” concluded Mukuha.

  • THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY OF THE INTER-UNIVERSITY COUNCIL FOR EAC- STUDENTS MOBILITY HOLDS SCHOLARSHIP CONSULTATIVE MEETING IN NAIROBI, KENYA

    During the first Day of EAC Scholarship Consultative Meeting in Nairobi.

    Inter-University Council for East African Community (EAC) Students Mobility held a Scholarship Consultative Meeting in Nairobi Kenya to discuss on revitalizing the regional university student mobility programme.

    Various issues discussed included; Achieving harmonized degrees, Accredited Programs and Mobility which is free movement of skills and students in the region.

    Present during the occassion were; The Vice Chancellors of Member Universities, Deputy Vice Chancellors, The ChairPerson, IUCEA Student and Staff Mobility Committee,
    Executive Directors of Students Loan Board/Student Financing & Loan Boards in EAC Partner States, Deputy Executive Secretary, IUCEA, Prof Rai and Colleagues from IUCEA Secretariat.

    “It is my distinct honor to welcome you all to the East African Community Student Mobility Scheme (EAC-SMS) consultative meeting.
    I take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you for being able to find time to participate in this meeting, which for us is a clear testimony of your commitment as our members to engage in IUCEA initiatives and the development and the transformation of EAC higher education for a successful integration through increased university exchange and mobility of students and staff.” Said Prof. Gaspard Banyankimbona Executive Secretary EAC.


    He further observed that, Two years ago 7-9th March 2022, they met in Nairobi to reflect on which direction to take as to deliver on the core mandate, specifically on promotion of students mobility in the region and staff exchange between member universities, and providing scholarships to students and grants to teaching and research assistants.
    The meeting was hosted by the University of Nairobi and thanked Prof. Kiama for his continued support.

    During that meeting, IUCEA secretariat, as directed by the 10th Executive Committee meeting submitted a proposal to establish a Multilateral East Africa Community Scholarship Programme now known as East African Community Student Mobility Scheme (EAC-SMS).
    The proposal had in itself several benefits and was meant to involve different actors ranging from universities, the business community, NGOs, development partners, guardians or parent and others.

    These benefits includes:
    a. Fast track implementation of the EAC Common Higher Education Area as institutions are expected to operationalize mutual recognition of qualifications, credit accumulation and transfer.
    b. Boost internationaization of member universities.
    c. Revive more mobility of students in the region,
    d. Support EAC Partner States to address key human resource deficiencies.
    e. Provide an opportunity to benchmark against each other and ultimately improve the quality of our academic and professional programs.
    f. Contribute to a key pillar of regional integration, namely the Common Market Protocol as graduates of this programs will be able to move their skills from one partner state to another.

    Vice-Chancellors and other stakeholders present at the Nairobi meeting in 2022 commended the initiative, committed to support it and recommended it for submission to the IUCEA Governing Board for approval on its way towards implementation.

    There was a commitment to provide scholarships ranging from Bachelors , Masters, to PhDs.
    After securing a considerable number of scholarships through these commitments, IUCEA launched a call for application from potential students which was very successful in terms of applications for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. However, there were various challenges.

    The meeting therefore aims to discuss about the challenges together, to chart on a common understanding on most suitable approach to implement the scholarship scheme.

    EAC hence,appealed to its members directly to brainstorm and come out with a way forward on how best to implement this commendable initiative that is expected to revitalize the regional university student mobility programme that was once very popular in the region.

    As part of the implementation of the EAC Common Higher Education Area, IUCEA has been running various scholarship programmes. These scholarship programmes are project–based and limited in time scope to the end of the project periods and have few slots for the many deserving students of East Africa. Moreover, only a few universities in the region are involved in these projects-based scholarship schemes.

    The EAC Student Mobility Scheme is meant to be our indigenous student exchange, inter-University and Inter EAC Partner States programme. It is one of the ways to demonstrate the self-sustainability of students mobility in the region which will enhance credibility towards the EAC community.

    As states earlier, EAC-SMS scholarship program requires joint contributions from universities, parents, and IUCEA, each with specific responsibilities as provided for in the EAC SMS Guidelines and commitment forms.

    The two days’ workshop seek to primarily:
    a. To enhance an understanding of the EAC-SMS among now the participating institutions.
    b. To discuss and agree on appropriate approach to operationalise the EAC-SMS,
    c.To enhance EAC-SMS implementation guidelines that are agreed upon by all parties.
    d. To revise and agree on the call for applications.

  • CAK DECISION ON THE PROPOSED ACQUISITION OF CERTAIN ASSETS OF STYLE INDUSTRIES LIMITED BY HAIR MANUFACTURING KENYA LIMITED

    The Competition Authority of Kenya has approved the proposed acquisition of certain assets of Style Industries Limited by Hair Manufacturing Kenya Limited on condition that at least 70 Percent of the target firm’s employees are retained on employment terms that are no less
    favourable than their current terms for 12 months following completion of the transaction.

    This approval has been granted based on the finding that the transaction is unlikely to
    negatively impact competition in the market for hair extensions and wigs. However, the
    transaction will elicit negative public interest concerns.

    Hair Manufacturing Kenya Limited is a private limited liability company incorporated in Kenya. It does not have any operations in Kenya since it is newly incorporated for purposes of
    this transaction.

    Style Industries is a private limited liability company incorporated in Kenya. Its principal activity is manufacturing and distribution of hair addition products such as braids, weaves and wigs under the brand name Darling. Style Industries is ultimately controlled by Godrej Consumer Products Limited (GCPL India).

    The proposed transaction involves the acquisition of certain assets — plant & machinery, office equipment and inventory — of Style Industries by Hair Manufacturing.
    The transaction therefore, qualified as a merger within the meaning of Section 2 and 41 of the Competition Act No. 12 of 2010. The Act stipulates that a merger or takeover may occur when an undertaking directly or indirectly acquires control over another business within Kenya.
    This may happen through, among others, purchase/lease of shares, exchange of shares, vertical integration.

    Further, merging parties whose combined turnover or assets, whichever is higher, is over Ksh.1 Billion are required to seek approval from the Authority prior to implementing the proposed transaction. The transaction between Hair Manufacturing and Style Industries met this
    threshold for mandatory notification and full analysis as provided for in the Competition (General) Rules, 2019.

    During merger analysis, and in order to determine the impact that a transaction will have oncompetition, the Authority identifies the relevant product market as well as the relevant geographic market.

    The relevant product market comprises products/services that are interchangeable or substitutable by the consumer due to their characteristics, prices and/or intended use. The acquirer has no operations in Kenya. On the other hand, the target manufactures and distributes hair addition products such as braids, weaves and wigs. Therefore, the relevant product market for purpose of analyzing the proposed transaction is the market for hair extensions and wigs.

    Determination of the relevant geographic market involves interrogating the area in which merging parties undertake the business and in which competition conditions are sufficiently similar. With regard to the proposed transaction, Style Industries sells its products throughout the country. Therefore, the relevant geographic market is national.

    The market for hair extensions and wigs is largely fragmented having players with local manufacturing capabilities as well as a significant extent of imported goods. It is characterized by many players comprising local manufacturers and importers.

    Some notable players include; Angels Hair Collection Kenya (Sanaa Industries Ltd), Lush Hair Kenya (Tolaram Group), Fashion Idol (Rebecca Fashion), Olivia Hair Kenya (Di Lorenzo Ltd), Africa Hair Factory Ltd., Unique Beauty Salon Consultants (UBSC), Style Haven Ltd., Exotic Dreadlocks & Weaves Ltd. and Lazy Daisy & Shear Elegance, among others. In the last 5 years, the market has experienced the entry of new players like Lush Hair Kenya and Olivia Hair Kenya.
    6wresearch, a global market research and consulting firm, reports that Kenya has increasingly been relying more on imports to meet its growing demand of human hair extensions. Domestic production and supply trails local demand.

    According to Volza, an import export database company based in India, 2021 import data places Kenya’s annual hair extension shipments at 49. These shipments belong to 21 importers who access their product from 20 suppliers. Solpia Industries accounted for the highest import market share with 12 shipments. Torchmark Enterprises Limited had 5 shipments while Rose Naisenya Suakei was at third with 4 shipments.

    A criterion of assessing a merger’s impact on competition is the post-merger market share of the undertakings involved in the transaction. The industry’s revenue in 2022 was approximately Ksh. 80 billion. In the same year, the target’s market share stood at 5%. Therefore, the proposed transaction will not affect market structure and concentration since Style Industries will exit the market and be replaced by Hair Manufacturing. Additionally, the
    target will continue to face competition from other players controlling 95% of the market.

    The structure and concentration of the market for hair extensions and wigs will not change in Kenya, as a result of the proposed transaction is unlikely to lead to a substantial lessening of competition in the market for hair extensions and wigs.

    During merger analysis, the Authority also considers the impact that a proposed transaction will have on public interest. Public interest in this case refers to various economically-inclined concepts that, when considered, protect the welfare of the Public. In the Competition Act, some of the public interest considerations are;
    a) extent to which a proposed merger would impact employment opportunities;
    b) impact on competitiveness of SMEs;
    c) impact on particular industries/sectors; and impact on the ability of national industries to compete in international markets.

    As per the parties’ submissions, the target’s commercial position and prospects is not promising, as evidenced by a review of its financial statements for the three years to March 2023. Absent the proposed transaction, it is highly likely that the target firm will exit the market, leading to a loss of all the current jobs and assets. Therefore, the proposed transaction will have a positive effect on public interest. However, the transaction is also elicit negative public interest concerns. Specifically, it will lead to the loss of 652 jobs which is equivalent to 30% of the target’s 2,171 employees.

    Premised on the above, the Authority approved the proposed acquisition of certain assets of Style Industries Limited by Hair Manufacturing Kenya Limited on condition that the acquirer retains at least 70% of the target’s employees on terms that are no less favourable thanwhat they currently enjoy for 12 months following completion of the transaction.

    Approval of a merger by the Authority does not relieve parties to the transaction from complying with other legal and regulatory requirements, especially those relating to employment

     

  • Rockstars FC Hot on the Trail of the FKF Division 2 League Qualifiers

    Wekesa Barasa played a pivotal role as he steered the Tujiamini Cheza Dimba winners Rockstars.

    FC to a 1-0 victory against Nakalira FC, to further widen the gap against their opponents in Zone B of the FKF
    Western Region League.

    The goal that came in the 29th minute secured maximum points for the home team solidifying their place on the
    standings where they lie at 4th with 24 points, while Nakalira settled for 5th with 20 points.

    The outcome of the much anticipated derby earned Rockstars FC bragging rights having so far won seven matches, drawing in three and losing four after playing 14 matches out of 22.

    Speaking during the match, Rockstars FC Team Manager, Ronald Mugera, said the match was a crucial tie up for the team, with the win giving them a much needed four point lead ahead of Nakalira FC.

    Mugera lauded the recent financial injection received from the Tujiamini Initiative, noting that it will boost the team’s efforts of getting into the FKF Division 2 League.

    “I think we are going to have the easiest time managing the team because of the availability of resources. As we now focus on the qualifiers, we want to nurture and position our players for higher leagues, and through Tujiamini’s three year sponsorship, we now have a clear plan towards achieving this,” said Mugera.

    The Tujiamini Initiative powered by SportPesa aims to identify and recognize local talent with its unique approach
    and commitment in exposing and rewarding talent and passion in sports towards sustaining grass roots sports
    development in the country.

    Further enunciating the team manager’s sentiments, the team captain Emmanuel Wanjala expressed the team’s renewed vigour adding that the sponsorship was a big motivating factor for players to exert themselves and aim higher in the league.

    “The support has come at the opportune time seeing as we have been struggling to attend some matches due to lack of resources. As players, we shall work hard to bring results that can propel us to the
    top tier leagues”, he said.

    Rockstars FC are the inaugral winners of the Cheza Dimba Awards in the Tujiamini initiative securing a three year sposnsorship deal worth 250,000 shillings annually alongside kit support.

    They are among community-owned football teams that receive the support in a bid to foster grass-roots football talent.

  • Regional science, tech conference launch three policy documents

    Dr. Sylavance Okoth, Executive Secretary, EASTECO at the 3rd EAC Regional STI Conference in Nairobi. Under the auspices of the East African Community (EAC), the conference is being held in collaboration with various STI stakeholders in the region and globally.
    The 3rd EAC Regional Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Conference came to a close in Nairobi Friday (8 March) during which three different policy documents were launched: The East African Regional Innovation and Technology Transfer Strategy, the East African Regional STEM Strategy, and the East African Regional Strategy for Indigenous Knowledge and Technology Systems.
    The conference, which ran from Wednesday 6 March 2024, was hosted jointly by the East African Science and Technology Commission (EASTECO) and the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA).
    Under the auspices of the East African Community (EAC), the conference was held in collaboration with various STI stakeholders in the region and globally in order to provide an avenue for sharing experiences, best practice and applications of STI outputs. It also served to strengthen collaborations, facilitate regional integration and enhance sustainable development.
    The conference was closed by the Undersecretary in the Ministry of EAC Affairs of South Sudan, Beny Gideon, who is also the Chair of the EAC Coordination Committee. Other notable dignitaries present included Uganda’s Minister of State for EAC Hon James Magode, senior ministry officials from other partner states, as well as donor representatives. The Executive Secretaries of IUCEA and EASTECO, Prof Gaspard Banyankimbona and Dr Sylvance Okoth, respectively, were also present.
    The overarching theme of the conference was, “Accelerating development and diffusion of Science, Technology and Innovation solutions for a green, inclusive and resilient East Africa.” This biennial conference builds on the deliberations and success of the 1st and 2nd conferences, which were held, respectively, in Kampala, Uganda in 2019 and Bujumbura, Burundi in 2021.
    Mr Gideon said infrastructure development was key to achieving the STI resolutions made at the conference. “Let us closely implement them at the multisectoral level so that the 4th conference will be able to say what percentage has been achieved.”
    Hon Magode said the conference theme was well aligned with the EAC Treaty and development strategy. “Science and technology impacts very positively on the society and you can therefore expect the support of the Government of Uganda in what you are doing.”
    The three-day meeting brought together diverse actors in the STI system, including policy makers, industry players, academicians, researchers, innovators, students and development partners.
    Other stakeholders attending the conference included representatives of EAC Partner States, the African Union, Regional Economic Communities, civil society, business and industry organizations, academic and research institutions, and development partners.
    The conference was being held in a hybrid mode, through face-to-face and virtual platforms. Activities included a high-level policy dialogue, plenary sessions, an exhibition, and a ministerial session. Special sessions included sub-themes and case studies on a wide variety of pertinent topics.
    Meanwhile, it was announced that the 4th EAC Regional Science, Technology and Innovation Conference will be held in Rwanda.
    The Treaty for establishment of the East African Community (EAC) recognizes Science and Technology as a key driver for sustainable socio-economic development in the region.  Further, the EAC Vision 2050 emphasizes STI as one of the key drivers for sustainable socio-economic development and calls on higher education institutions to mainstream research and innovation towards socio-economic transformation of the region.
    Under its overarching theme, the conference engagement sessions are structured into four thematic areas, namely: (i) Agricultural Productivity, Resilience and Food Security; (ii) Health and Nutrition; (iii) Natural Resources Management; and (iv) Information Communication Technology and Digital Economy. All full paper submissions in the conference are peer-reviewed and evaluated based on originality, technical and/or research depth, accuracy and relevance to conference theme and topics. The accepted peer-reviewed papers will be published in the East African Journal of Science, Technology and Innovation (EAJSTI) to boost the dissemination of research findings within the region and improve regional visibility and competitiveness.

  • KENYA LAND ALLIANCE LAUNCHES HAKI ARDHI APP

    During the Launch of ARDHI APP at ufungamano Nairobi.

    The Kenya Land Alliance (KLA) has today launched HAKI ARDHI APP – a women land rights reporting tool- in Nairobi as part of its International Women’s Day celebration. The event, which was held at Ufungamano House, attracted close to 200 women from across the country and various stakeholders, including government officials.
    The Haki Ardhi App was last year rolled out in Kakamega County and Taita Taveta County and has been very instrumental in documenting land rights injustices faced by women in these areas, including land succession problems, forced evictions, land grabbing, denial of access to their property among others.

    The tool, which also has a Toll-Free Text function (victims can send messages to 23583 to report their situation and access remedy) has been so effective that the courts, through the Chief Magistrate in Kakamega, are interested in the data to help accelerate the prosecution of some of the stalled land rights violation cases where women are victims.

    During the ceremony, Kenya Land Alliance outlined its three-year plan for HAKI ARDHI APP, which includes the training of training of 20 paralegals in 30 counties, enhancement of its legal aid services to bring pro-bono legal assistance to members of the community who can not afford the services of advocates or lawyers and addressing some of the country’s land and natural resources policy deficits. The HAKI ARDHI APP is domiciled in several InfoHubs across Taita Taveta county and Kakamega County and is overseen by paralegals and legal assistants.

     

    The HAKI ARDHI APP has so far registered 130 cases (both in Taita Taveta County and Kakamega County) out of which 6 have been successfully followed-up and solved.

    “Our goal, in the next few months, is to roll-out the use of the HAKI ARDHI APP in more counties within Kenya, so that we can address the myriad of land rights injustices that women in Kenya face. Both rural women and urban women in the country face daily harassment, mistreatment and at times life threatening land rights related violence. It is our aim, to provide a free, secure and dependable reporting mechanism so that women can access the remedies that they so much need,” said Faith Alubbe, the CEO of Kenya Land Alliance.

    The HAKI ARDHI APP has been developed in partnership with the Rainforest Foundation UK (RF-UK) as the technical partner and TMG ThinkTank For Sustainability.

    Kenya Land Alliance (KLA) is an umbrella network of Civil Society Organizations and individuals across Kenya who are committed to effective advocacy for the reform of policies and laws governing land in Kenya.

    The organization was established to create an institutional mechanism to advocate for enabling land laws and policies in order to ensure secure and equitable access to land and natural resources in Kenya. Kenya Land Alliance was formed as a Trust in 1999. It was later registered as a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) in July 2013.
    Our Program Areas are; Women Land Rights, Land Governance, Community Land Protection, Land and Institutional Frameworks and Youth and Land.
    Currently, the organization is implementing several key national land rights related initiatives across 25 counties in Kenya. These initiatives include Community Land registration projects, GIS Mapping and Social Cartography to determine how communities interact with natural resources like forests, enhancing the reporting of women land rights violations through our Haki Ardhi digital App, robust public engagement programs that include regular Legal Aid Clinics and initiatives that target national and country government policy making organs to mention just a few.

  • Regional science, tech conference opens in Nairobi

    Prof. Walter O. Oyawa, Director General of the National Commission for Science, Technology & Innovation (NACOSTI) representing the Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Education, Kenya Hon. Ezekiel Machogu at the official opening of the 3rd EAC Regional STI Conference today in Nairobi.
    The 3rd EAC Regional Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Conference opened in Nairobi today.
    The conference, which runs until Friday 8 March 2024, is hosted jointly by the East African Science and Technology Commission (EASTECO) and the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA).
    Under the auspices of the East African Community (EAC), the conference is being held in collaboration with various STI stakeholders in the region and globally in order to provide an avenue for sharing experiences, best practice and applications of STI outputs. It will also serve to strengthen collaborations, facilitate regional integration and enhance sustainable development.
    The conference was opened by the Director General of the National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI), Dr Walter Oyawa, on behalf of Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Education Ezekiel Machogu. Other notable dignitaries present included the Executive Secretaries of IUCEA and EASTECO, Prof Gaspard Banyankimbona  and Dr Sylvance Okoth, respectively, and donor representatives.
    The overarching theme of the conference is, “Accelerating development and diffusion of Science, Technology and Innovation solutions for a green, inclusive and resilient East Africa.” This biennial conference builds on the deliberations and success of the 1st and 2nd conferences, which were held, respectively, in Kampala, Uganda in 2019 and Bujumbura, Burundi in 2021.
    Dr. Sylavance Okoth, Executive Secretary, EASTECO at the 3rd EAC Regional STI Conference in Nairobi. Under the auspices of the East African Community (EAC), the conference is being held in collaboration with various STI stakeholders in the region and globally.
    Mr Machogu observed that, Kenya plans to have at least one national polytechnic in each of the 47 counties. “The Draft Sessional Paper on Education 2024 proposes an allocation of 2% towards research with at least a third of that amount going towards TVETS and another third towards universities.”
    The Executive Secretary of EASTECO, Dr Sylvance Okoth, added that, the conference will provide an important forum for exchanging scientific information, and in the process, create new linkages and strengthen bonds of collaboration. “we will be listening to outputs of scientific production in both oral and poster presentations; interact with exhibitions of scientific innovations; and witness intellectual discourse.”
    On his part, IUCEA Executive Secretary Prof Gaspard Banyankimbona underscored the importance of utilizing research to improve livelihoods. “We firmly believe that research, development, and innovation (RDI) are not mere academic pursuits but the very engines driving knowledge, fostering collaborative problem-solving, and propelling the creation of impactful solutions to the challenges we face collectively.”
    During the event, the EASTECO Regional STI Policy and Intellectual Property Policy were also launched.
    The meeting brings together diverse actors in the STI system, including policy makers, industry players, academicians, researchers, innovators, students and development partners.
    EAC GIZ Cluster Coordinator, Bjorn Richter speaking at the 3rd EAC Regional STI Conference. The conference has brought together policy makers, industry players, academicians, researchers, innovators, students and development partners.
    Other stakeholders attending the conference include representatives of EAC Partner States, the African Union, Regional Economic Communities, civil society, business and industry organizations, academic and research institutions, and development partners.
    The conference is being held in a hybrid mode through face-to-face and virtual platforms.
    Activities include a high-level policy dialogue, plenary sessions, an exhibition, and a ministerial session. Special sessions will be held on request from partners and will incorporate a youth engagement session on technologies and innovation of the future as well as a session on entrepreneurship promotion through education, research and development.
    The Treaty for establishment of the East African Community (EAC) recognizes Science and Technology as a key driver for sustainable socio-economic development in the region.  Further, the EAC Vision 2050 emphasizes STI as one of the key drivers for sustainable socio-economic development and calls on higher education institutions to mainstream research and innovation towards socio-economic transformation of the region.
  • A medical doctor who rose from Squalor to professional excellence

    A medical doctor who rose from Squalor to professional excellence

    While thousands of graduate doctors continue to lament the lack of employment opportunities in government, one youthful doctor chose not to focus on that, instead consolidating his wits, profession, and positive networking to drive the dream of a healthy society.

    The academic and professional journey of Boniface Onsongo, a medical doctor by training, is as challenging as it is inspiring.

    Born into a humble family in Kisii, Onsongo would later move to Kitale with his mother in 2002, leaving his father behind. He went through part of his basic education at Tuwani Primary School in Kisumu Ndogo slum, going through Classes 4, 5, and 6. His early life was not an easy experience, as the last born in a family of five would tell this writer.

    Dr. Boniface Onsongo in his office at Kitengala, Equty Afia
    Dr. Boniface Onsongo is in his office in Kitengala, Equty Afia.

    “My mother struggled to provide for us from the small business of selling simsim and other candies on the roadside,” he says.

    “I suffered low self-esteem as a young boy in primary school, especially when I got to Class 7, and this affected my performance.”

    Then a trying moment that would remain stamped in his mind came into the life of Onsongo: the sudden and brief stint of illness and the subsequent death of his mother.

    He narrates that she collapsed at her place of business, profusely vomiting blood, and was later rushed to Kitale Referral Hospital, where she was diagnosed with leukemia and meningitis. She later passed on.

    After the painful experience of the death of his mother, Onsongo was taken in by his elder sister, who lived in Nairobi’s Mukuru kwa Njenga slum, before going back to Kisii, where he enrolled at Nyambusi Academy, where he confesses to having been a slow learner. He says this did not deter him; instead, it made him refresh his passion for books.

    Years moved, and the young boy did impressively well in his Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) examination, attaining 365 marks and getting admission to Kisii High School. Here, he became more determined with his studies than ever.

    The journey through high school would not be smooth either, considering his underprivileged family background. His peasant father was not able to educate him, as he sold everything he had to see him through secondary school, he narrates.

    “I remember for three years, I would be sent home from school several times for lack of school fees,” he says, adding that his back-and-forth from school could not hinder his resolve to study.

    The rough road through high school notwithstanding, Onsongo left Kisii High School in 2011 having scored an impressive A of 83 points, leaving behind a huge debt of Ksh365,000 in unpaid fees, thanks to tutors who saw potential in him and agreed to let him learn without disruption. The money would be paid gradually in a mutual agreement with school management, he says.

    By now, Onsongo was looking forward to a bright future. Before he was called to Kenyatta University to pursue medicine and surgery during the double intake of 2012, he was offered an internship by the Equity Bank Kisii branch, where he got a rare opportunity to be taken through the Equity Leadership Program (ELP).

    Dr. Boniface Onsongo issuing instructions to his doctor in his office at Kitengala, Equty Afia
    Dr. Boniface Onsongo issued instructions to his doctor in his office at Kitengala, Equty Afia.

    The Equity Leadership Program helped him get the right concept of life, career choice, and other important life skills.

    “This program helped me a lot to broaden my perspective of life, and I thank Equity Foundation for it,” he says.

    The program gave Onsongo an edge to be elected as Secretary-General of the Association of Kenyatta University Medical Students (AKUMS), a position he served in with passion.

    While at Kenyatta University, Onsongo remained focused on his dream of attaining academic excellence and career accomplishment.

    As the years progressed, the young man eventually graduated from Kenyatta University in Medicine and Surgery (MBCHB) in 2018.

    Soon after he was out of university, the fresh graduate doctor went into a one-year mandatory internship at the Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital (KTRH), where he was graciously introduced to Equity Afia, a model by the Equity Bank Foundation designed to offer induction and career guidance for the youth. The model, he confesses, helped open up his mind to managerial and leadership skills vital to running any enterprise. 

    After the lapse of the internship period, the self-driven graduate would venture back to Nairobi to share the knowledge and skills he acquired from the noble Equity Afia model with others at a medical facility in Buruburu. By now, the young doctor was burning with passion to reach more people with his fresh knowledge and skills towards attaining better health for all. It is at this critical point that Dr. Onsongo started the Stable Health Foundation, under which he mobilized resources and expertise to open the Kitengela Equity Afia Medical Center in Kitengela Town in 2021.

    As the founder and CEO of the Stable Health Foundation, Onsongo aims to meet the health needs of the community around him by conducting medical outreaches to educate people on curative and preventive approaches to better health.

    The Kitengela facility has 14 staff, all permanently serving in various general departments. There are two nurses, two doctors, and two laboratory technicians. There are also dermatologists, oncologists, and ear, nose, and throat (ENT) experts. 

    Onsongo explains that his Medical Centre is not a business per se, but a point to offer solutions to different health conditions. It operates 24 hours a day.

    “We are not selling products and services, we give solutions,” he says. “We first understand the problem and then offer accurate solutions to lifestyle diseases affecting people.”

    Stable Health Foundation also organizes a series of medical camps around schools in Kajiado County to give much-needed guidance to learning institutions and health facilities on preventable lifestyle conditions like diabetes, cancer, and hypertension.

    Asked about his plans, Onsongo says he plans to expand to offering ambulance services to be able to respond quickly to the emergency needs of the community, on top of introducing affordable medical insurance for his clientele.

    On the healthcare area, he wishes the government to address, he singles out E-medicine, saying it is capable of providing quick, first-hand solutions to different health conditions at the touch of a button, observing that if given the attention and support it deserves from health stakeholders, it can accommodate millions of patients at one go, hence reducing congestion in public hospitals.