Category: ENVIRONMENT DEVELOPMENTS

Tourism Players Gain Knowledge on Leverage Sports to Boost Tourism

Sports organizers and travel trade are rooting for joint initiatives to promote sports as a key driver of tourism in Kenya

Yesterday, KTB CEO June Chepkemei disclosed that Kenya is recording low visitor arrivals in sports-related events. The country recorded 4,600 sports tourists between January and October, a figure she described as dismal.

The CEO was speaking during a capacity-building forum on sports tourism, where sports federations in Kenya were also urged to synchronize the sports events calendar to ensure tour operators can easily leverage key events to make Kenya an all-around tourism destination.

The session also had a strong focus on building synergies between tourism stakeholders and key sports event organizers in Kenya. Tour operators and hotels were particularly urged to get creative in bundling offers to ensure the repeat visits and long stays of visitors drawn by sports.

Magical Kenya Open Tournament Director Patrick Obath, who was a speaker during the forum, said that the Kenyan tourism trade should actively seek to package tourism products around key events that are already guaranteed in the annual sports calendar “The link between sports and tourism is multifaceted; first people can play sports and visit a destination where an event is taking place, and secondly, if they like the sport being hosted, they are more likely to be enticed to go visit attractions in the country. What is needed is to package the products we have in the country around events. A key feature in hosting international events is the broadcast and TV time we get around the world that exposes the country positively globally,” said Obath.

The Kenya Tourism Board CEO noted that with the privilege of hosting key local and international sports events, the destination has an opportunity to scale its tourism portfolio and provide alternatives to travelers who seek adventure and sports.

“We have the landscapes and wonderful views that can allow us to host many sports events, especially those that don’t require us to have mega facilities. Given our strong sports reputation, it should concern us that we don’t fully capitalize on sports tourism, going by the current statistics. To drive our tourism offering, our goal is to empower the travel trade to better understand and package sports tourism opportunities, “she said

She added, “As the body mandated to market the destinations’ tourism and seek opportunities that drive the sector in Kenya, we want to ensure that the sports fraternity and the Kenyan tourism players can ensure that we fully take advantage of the big opportunity sports events present.” Chepkemei noted, “We want to integrate sports tourism into our national tourism blueprint so that we can effectively target and attract sports enthusiasts, be they participants, fans, or lifestyle seekers.”

The session brought together over 100 participants drawn from across the tourism value chain to equip them with insights and strategies to leverage major sporting events for tourism growth.

According to UN Tourism, sports tourism is increasingly a key driver for the sector, generating around 10% of the world’s expenditure on tourism with an estimated growth rate of 17.5% by 2030. Studies have shown that more travelers are becoming drawn to destinations that host sporting events, with the electric atmosphere of mega competitions and the cultural allure of local sporting traditions.

The panel discussions also focused on the importance of integrating sports events with destination attractions to create compelling tourism experiences.

Viu-Tavel CEO Felix Musa said the sport is a huge area that provides jobs and is also a source of much-needed dollars. There is a need to scale the potential in this space if we can work seamlessly with organizers of events. We have learned that there is an appetite and hunger, and if well prepared, Kenyans and visitors have the willingness to spend. We call for synergy to enable operators to react better to the opportunities in the sports space.” Said Musa

The capacity-building session comes amid a busy sporting calendar for Kenya in early 2025, with the Magical Kenya Open (MKO) set to kick off in late February. The famed WRC Safari Rally also comes back from March 20–23, 2025.

December 9, 2024
Regional tourism stakeholders to take lead in environment conservation

Tourism stakeholders have vowed to take the lead in championing environmentally sustainable initiatives for a thriving tourism business and other economic activities.

In a two-day-long third edition of the Uganda-Kenya Coast Tourism Conference that ended on Friday in Entebbe, Uganda, players in the tourism sector drawn from Kenya and Uganda underscored the importance of a direct relationship between environment conservation and tourism business.

Uganda’s Foreign Affairs Minister John Mulimba told the gathering of tourism players that they had a responsibility to protect the environment by adopting practices that not only preserve natural beauty but also enhance the cultural integrity of the communities.

“Let us remember that our collaboration is not solely about enhancing our tourism sectors; it is about creating jobs that uplift our communities. When we invest in tourism, we invest in the livelihoods of countless individuals’ entrepreneurs, artisans, service providers, and families who depend on this critical industry.” Said the Minister.

The resolution comes hot on the heels of the Kenya Tourism Board’s (KTB) campaign, One Tourist, One Tree, launched two months ago to rally visitors and Kenyans to plant trees as one of the initiatives toward environmental sustainability.

The initiative supported by the industry players is a call to travelers to leave a positive legacy by planting a tree, helping to combat climate change, and conserving landscapes, and every tree planted through is a symbol of shared responsibility in the protection of the planet.

During his address, the Ugandan Minister said there was an urgent need for players in the sector to ensure that as they integrate sustainability into tourism strategies, the same does not come at the expense of ecosystems and cultural heritage

According to the minister, an inclusive economy through sharing resources for economic livelihoods from tourism proceeds was one of the ways of sustaining the sector.

The conference also heard that human-wildlife conflict and poverty’s exclusive approach to tourism by overdepending on foreign tourism was a major threat to sustainability and therefore a re-defined strategy to grow the domestic market for the survival of tourism.

Kenya’s High Commissioner to Uganda, Joash Maangi, expressed his optimism that the Ugandan market for Kenya is going to increase tremendously with elaborate initiatives for a complementary approach in marketing tourism experiences between the two countries.

In 2023, Kenya received 201,623 visitors from Uganda, improving from 151,121 recorded in 2022, with the High Commissioner disclosing that the expected increase of Kenya Airways flight frequency from Entebbe to Nairobi from four to five times in the immediate future is a clear indication of the traveler growth to Kenya.

The Movement by road using a national identity card as a travel document, added the High Commissioner, is also a major contributor to the increasing number of Ugandan travelers into Kenya, making it a second-performing market after the USA

He at the same time called on players in the tourism industry to offer more budget-friendly travel packages to promote regional growth of domestic tourism.

“There is a need to demystify the myth that tourism is a reserve for foreigners or the rich. Make travel costs affordable to more people. This, however, should not compromise the quality of service,” said the High Commissioner.

He particularly singled out sporting and cultural events in both countries, such as the recently concluded Elgon Championship Rugby Cup 2024, the WRC Safari Rally, and the upcoming AFCON 2027, as opportunities for affordable packages offered to the Ugandan traveler.

Kilifi County Deputy Governor Flora Mbetsa Chibule said the county has undertaken efforts towards enhancing eco-tourism offerings, preserving cultural heritage, and improving infrastructure to ensure visitors enjoy seamless and memorable experiences.

She cited the designation of Gedi Ruins in Malindi as Kenya’s 8th World Heritage Site as a major step towards the sustainability of African culture and heritage. “We are soon going to unveil the newest kid in the block for not only East Africa but the whole of Sub-Saharan Africa! The First Ever Blue Tourism product of its Kind: an underwater museum at Ngomeni, Kilifi County,” disclosed the Deputy Governor

She continued, “Our two regions are uniquely complementary. Kilifi County’s pristine beaches, historical landmarks, and world-class resorts align seamlessly with Uganda’s adventure tourism, wildlife sanctuaries, and cultural richness. Together, we can create travel packages that allow visitors to experience the best of both worlds coastline serenity and inland adventure.”

November 22, 2024
Conversations on Climate Adaptation and Resilience Ahead of Landmark Conference

L-R: Kennedy Ouma, Faith Ngige, Sellah Bogonko, Co-Founder and CEO Jacob’s Ladder Africa Dr. Jeremiah Rogito, Specialist Food and Land Use, Anne Kamonjo, Dr. Jackson Koimbori

Jacob’s Ladder Africa with Civil society key partners in collaboration with the Government of Kenya, through the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry hosted its first series of thematic pre-convening events in the build-up to Africa Climate Summit focusing on Climate Adaptation and Resilience and Youth and Children Inclusion.

These convenings underscore Africa’s resolve to fulfill and measure the commitments made during the 2023 Africa Climate Summit in Nairobi, marking a pivotal moment in climate accountability.

The event brought together leaders, experts, and organizations dedicated to building a sustainable, resilient Africa for the future.

Sellah Bogonko, Co-Founder and CEO of Jacob’s Ladder Africa stated that the ground-breaking Africa Climate Summit (ACS) represented a new chapter in Africa’s journey of owning and steering the conversation on the unique climate change solutions that Africa can offer to the world.

It was also an opportunity to set in motion partnerships and solutions that would greatly impact the lives of African youth.

“If implemented, the outcomes of ACS will significantly change the trajectory of Africa. For this reason, Jacob’s Ladder Africa, in conjunction with partners in the private sector, civil society organizations, and the Government of Kenya, has led the charge to take stock of the progress made since ACS, in February 2025, along with key thematic convening taking place prior,” she further reiterated.

The Climate Adaptation and Resilience convening addressed urgent needs such as sustainable agriculture, climate-resilient urban infrastructure, and drought preparedness. These topics reflect the challenges identified by African leaders, where rapid urbanization and climate instability exacerbate vulnerabilities.

The Youth and Children Inclusion in Climate Action convening on November 5 will gather youth leaders and children from across the country.

The event offers a platform for the younger generation to hold leaders accountable and push for their active involvement in climate policy and action, a commitment emphasized in the Nairobi Declaration.

As Africa prepares for ACS@ONE in February 2025, these events are a call to action for stakeholders across sectors to sustain the momentum generated at the Africa Climate Summit.

ACS@ONE will be a landmark moment to reflect on Africa’s strides in climate action and to inspire continuous, tangible progress.

November 4, 2024
Fay Bistro in Kilimani, indefinite shut down due to Noise Violation Complaints

EnvironmentCS, Aden Duale announced the club’s closure after accusations of rampant noise.

In a statement seen by Kenyaleo.co.ke, Duale directed the National Environment Management Agency(NEMA) Director General and the agency’s police officers to visit the club and enforce the ban.

‘’I have ordered the immediate closure of Fay’s Bistro club in Kilimani, Nairobi, for noise violations. The NEMA Director General, accompanied by the NEMA Police unit, is on-site to enforce the closure,’’ Duale stated.

NEMA DG, Mamo Mamo voiced his concern, ‘’The authority draws your attention to the numerous improvement notices served to you including the improvement notices dated 19th, June 2024 and 14th August 2024 and inspection by NEMA environment inspectors following numerous complaints on varied dates reported by the general public regarding noise pollution from the operation of your business hence denying neighboring fraternity the right to a clean and healthy environment as enshrined in Article 42 of the constitution and section 3 of the environment management and coordination act of 1999.’’

The club became a subject of social media discussions after Nairobi County Environment Chief Officer Geofrey Moisira was blocked in a video seen circulating all over the social media handles by an alleged owner when he went to intervene following an uproar from adjacent residents according to the officer claiming that there have been continuous complaint reports.

CS Duale has been previously and recently been persistent in sounding warnings to other clubs within residential areas that are notorious for noise disturbances.

He added that their impunity would not be tolerated.

‘’Let this serve as a stern warning to all clubs operating in residential areas: any that continue to play loud music will face the same action. This impunity will not be tolerated!’’

Moisira, in a video clip is seen saying that residents in the surrounding area had lodged complaints with his office over noise pollution that emanated from the club, making it hard for them to sleep at night.

‘’These neighbors have been complaining and I decided to come in person to witness for myself. If you check it’s already midnight and the decibels are almost 80, that is too loud,’’ Moisiria insists.

He adds, ‘’The owner has been saying that we are against them, let’s go tell them to switch off so that the neighbors can sleep.’’

In the same shared clip, Mosiria arrived with the media contingents to document and record the series of events and when he arrived at the entrance to the club, he was met by a hostile lady who tried to hide her face nor would neither listen to him nor allow him to gain entry, claiming that the County Officer was doing wrong to record his entry.

The recently transferred Chief officer from the Health sector to the Environment has been caught in push-and-pull wars with the City from Hospitals and now club owners and churches, construction sites, and now especially those within residential areas that play loud music when people are asleep.

The recent move of Mosiria where he faced a hostile environment is when he pushed into Quiver Lounge Kilimani causing it to completely ban loud music playing in a loud-press release shared the following day.

Duale’s move to order the shutdown of the club could potentially raise eyebrows over what could likely be interpreted as stepping in on the roles of the county government.

CS Duale has consistently been sending warnings on the same after the issue escalated which touches his ministry.

October 20, 2024
KEPHIS Hosts a priemier International Seed Quality Conference

During the Exhibition visit by CS Agriculture at Kephis Headquarters.

The Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) is holding the first-ever Seed Quality Conference in Nairobi, aimed at increasing the quality of seeds in the Kenyan market.

The conference was graced by the Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture Dr. Andrew Karanja as chief guest.
Principal Secretary Dr. Paul Kiprono was also present during the occasion. Other present stakeholders included; the Board Chairperson, Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service Board, and Prof Theophilus Mutui Managing Director of KEPHIS.

“Kenya’s economic growth and attainment of the sustainable development goals are heavily reliant on the agriculture sector, having significant bearing on food security, economic growth, and social stability. The agriculture sector provides 60 percent of all employment in Africa, and it is the largest contributor to the gross domestic product (GDP) of many African Nations.” Said Dr. Andrew Karanja CS Ministry of Agriculture.

Addressing participants of the conference, Ministry of Agriculture CS Dr Andrew Karanja says access to quality seeds and inputs is a critical determinant of agricultural productivity as it lays the foundation for successful and sustainable agriculture.

On his part, PS Dr Kipronoh Ronoh noted, that Kenya continues to produce high-quality seeds of many crops in response to the needs of farmers, but more needs to be done.

In his opening remarks, KEPHIS MD Prof Theophilus Mutui observed that the conference aims to provide an opportunity for the seed actors to share experiences, achievements, challenges, opportunities, and solutions in the context of nine thematic areas.

August 19, 2024
RCMRD Holds International Conference 2024

Regional Centre for Mapping of Resources for Development (RCMRD) has held an International conference that began from 13th and ends 15th today August 2024, Nairobi, Kenya.

The theme of this year’s Conference is “EARTH: Our only Home”, added Dr. Emmanuel Nkurunziza, RCMRD’s Director General. He went further and delivered a keynote address at the 2024 RCMRD International Conference by also welcoming all the Guests and stakeholders to the Conference.

The conference saw discussions intensified on leveraging Earth Observation (EO) data and solutions to drive sustainable development across various stakeholders.

The plenary session featured contributions from key experts in the field including:

Ms Marie Makuate from GEOSPATIAL GIRLS AND KIDS, Cameroon, presented the importance of geospatial education and empowerment among young girls and children, particularly in leveraging EO technologies for societal benefit.

Priscilla Niyokwirindwa from the University of Rwanda-CGIS discussed integrating EO data in academic research and its impact on policy formulation and implementation.

Dr Judith Atukunda from the International Land Coalition explored the intersection of land rights, EO data, and sustainable land management practices in Africa.

Dr Paula Kahumbu from Wildlife Direct, Kenya, provided insights into the role of EO in wildlife conservation and the protection of biodiversity in the region.

These presentations were followed by parallel thematic sessions focusing on “Land Administration and Management“, where experts discussed the application of EO in addressing land administration challenges and improving land management practices. This session was moderated by Joseph Murage, Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist at RCMRD, and featured the following presentations:

Chinenye Mezie Nwafor from Orizu College of Education Nsugbe, Nigeria, presented on “Assessment of the Effects of Climate Change on Agricultural Lands using Geographical Information System (GIS) and Remote Sensing (RS) in Nigeria,” exploring how EO tools can be used to monitor and mitigate the impacts of climate change on agriculture.

Kananelo Bookholane discussed the development of water resources management plans in Lesotho, focusing on enhanced management, protection, and sustainable utilisation of water resources through EO-based strategies.

Iradukunda Valentine from the Africa Center of Excellence for Water Management, Addis Ababa University, presented the “Impacts of Land Use Land Cover Change on Water Balance Components,” using the Gobele watershed in the Wabe Shebelle Basin, Ethiopia, as a case study to illustrate the effects of land cover changes on water resources.

Kelvin Muli from the Conservation Alliance of Kenya Land Management presented a case study on the “Preservation of Knowledge Systems through Integration of Indigenous Knowledge System,” focusing on the Ogiek community in Mau Forest, Kenya, and how indigenous knowledge can complement EO data for sustainable land management.

Dimitrios and Douglas Rono from the World Resources Institute (WRI) discussed “Land Cover for Africa, Land Administration, Sustainable Urban Development, and Energy Access Explorer,” highlighting using EO data to support urban development and improve access to energy in Africa.

RIC2024 offers a unique opportunity to showcase organization’s work, areas to learn, and networking avenues.

The third day of the AfriGEO Symposium and the second day of the RCMRD International Conference 2024 concluded with comprehensive discussions on the importance of EO data, in-situ data, policy linkages, and decision-makers adopting EO-based solutions. Furthermore, these discussions underscored the need to effectively implement EO strategies to accelerate social and economic growth across Africa, emphasising the continent’s commitment to leveraging technological advancements for sustainable development.

RIC2024 offers a unique opportunity to showcase organization’s work, learn, and network with other professionals. With more than 4,000 attendees over the past six years, including ministers, government officials, scientists, development partners, researchers, academics, and media groups. We anticipate to host over 1,500 delegates

The Regional Centre for Mapping of Resources for Development (RCMRD), previously known as Regional Centre for Services in Surveying, Mapping and Remote Sensing (RCSSMRS) was established in Nairobi, Kenya in 1975 under the auspices of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA).

August 15, 2024
National Syndemic Diseases Control Council’s Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion Highlighted

The National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC) Director Dr Ruth Laibon Masha.

The National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC), a state corporation under the State Corporations Act through the National AIDS Control Council Order, appeared before the Senate Committee on National Cohesion, Equal Opportunity, and Regional Integration, chaired by Senator Mohammed Chute of Marsabit. The NSDCC informed the committee that as of June 30, 2024, it has an in-post staff complement of 143 employees from diverse backgrounds.

The report highlighted that 56% (80) of the employees are male, while 44% (63) are female.

Gender Composition

The report emphasized that the NSDCC strives for gender parity, integrating both perspectives in decision-making processes and program implementations. “NSDCC is committed to providing equal opportunities for persons living with disabilities and persons living with HIV, ensuring their needs are integrated into the organization’s daily operations,” part of the statement read.

The Chief Executive Officer, Ruth Masha, noted that there have been no new recruitments due to government austerity measures over the past five years. Additionally, three persons living with disabilities retired during this period, resulting in a decline in their representation within the workforce. Masha stated, “The NSDCC has prioritized and reserved positions in the approved establishment, subject to the lifting of the recruitment freeze, to ensure that the NSDCC recruits a minimum of three persons with disabilities, aligning with the expectations and guidelines for persons living with disabilities in Kenya.”

Age Diversity

The report detailed the age distribution of NSDCC employees aged 27 to 59 years old. It noted that five employees are aged 30 years and below, 37 are between 30-40 years, 67 are between 40-50 years, and 34 are between 51-59 years. “This age diversity ensures a blend of youthful energy and experienced insights, fostering a dynamic and innovative work culture,” Masha said.

The report also indicated that the NSDCC maintains a balance in community representation and takes affirmative action where necessary to ensure constitutional compliance. Strategies have been implemented to ensure the inclusion and representation of women, persons living with disabilities, and minority groups. “NSDCC adopts inclusive hiring practices to attract a diverse pool of candidates. Whenever vacancies are declared, the NSDCC posts these opportunities in every Regional Office to ensure that Kenyans in devolved structures are aware of and have access to these opportunities,” the report reads.

The report stated, “The council has ensured that all facilities are accessible to persons living with disabilities. We have developed policies promoting gender equality, non-discrimination, and support for persons living with disabilities. Regular training programs are conducted to raise awareness about inclusivity and diversity.”

Senator Mohammed Chute urged the department to ensure equitable distribution of funds to enable the organization to run its activities smoothly.

July 16, 2024
Kush Cultural Festival To take Place in Naivasha Kenya

Fatih-Keer-KUSH-Executive-Director-and-Rachuonyo-Duncan-KUSH-Media-Liason-Officer-.

The Kush Cultural Festival is a groundbreaking event that will
celebrate the ancient Kingdom of Kush’s rich history and cultural legacy. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Hell’s Gate
National Park in Naivasha, Kenya, this 7-day festival (October 7-13th 2024) will offer a unique blend of historical immersion, cultural exchange, artistic expression, and much more.

The Significance of Kush
The Kingdom of Kush, a powerful ancient civilization that flourished in what is now modern-day Sudan, played a pivotal role in shaping African and world history. Renowned for their advanced society, architectural marvels, and influential trade networks, the Kushites left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire and intrigue. This
festival aims to:

● Educate: Shed light on the often-overlooked history of Kush, its achievements, and its impact on various cultures.
● Celebrate: Honour the resilience and creativity of the Kushite people through showcasing, music, dance, art, and storytelling.
● Connect: Foster cultural exchange and dialogue between diverse communities, both local and international.
● Empower: Provide a platform for contemporary artists and artisans to showcase their talents and connect with a global audience.

A Multi-Sensory Experience
The Kush Cultural Festival will transport attendees to the
heart of ancient Kush through a variety of immersive experiences:
● Open-Air Museum: Explore a meticulously recreated Kushite village, complete with traditional architecture, artifacts, and demonstrations of ancient crafts.
● Kush Street: Wander through a bustling marketplace featuring artisans and vendors showcasing traditional crafts,
textiles, jewelry, and cuisine inspired by the region.
● Royal Coronation: Witness a grand reenactment of a Kushite coronation ceremony, complete with authentic costumes and rituals.
● Performances: Enjoy a diverse lineup of music, dance, and
theatrical performances inspired by Kushite traditions and contemporary interpretations.
● Workshops: Participate in hands-on workshops led by experts in various fields, including traditional crafts, music, dance, and storytelling.
● Food Court: Savor a culinary journey through the flavors of Kush and the surrounding regions, with a wide array of food vendors offering traditional dishes and modern interpretations.

Target Audience
The Kush Cultural Festival aims to attract a diverse audience, including:
● Students: The festival will cater to school students in primary and high schools, offering educational opportunities and
engaging activities that align with their curriculum.
Transportation will be provided for school groups from Nairobi and nearby areas.
● History and Culture Enthusiasts: Individuals interested in learning about ancient civilizations and their impact on the
modern world.

● Families: Parents and children seeking a fun and educational experience that celebrates cultural diversity. The
festival will provide shuttle buses from Nairobi for attendees from the city and neighboring regions.
● Art and Music Lovers: Those who appreciate traditional
and contemporary artistic expressions from Africa and beyond.
● Tourists: Visitors to Kenya looking for a unique cultural
experience that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.
The festival will provide shuttle buses from Nairobi for attendees from the city and neighbouring regions.
● Local Communities: Residents of Naivasha and surrounding areas who are eager to celebrate their heritage and connect with others. The festival will provide shuttle buses from Nairobi for attendees from the city and neighbouring regions.

Festival Program and Activities
The Kush Cultural Festival will offer a diverse and engaging program that caters to a wide range of interests. Each day will
be filled with activities that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Kush and its enduring legacy. The festival program is designed to connect the past with the present, offering a unique blend of historical immersion and contemporary cultural exchange.

Daily Activities:
● Open-Air Museum: Guided tours and interactive exhibits showcasing Kushite history, architecture, and daily life.
● Kush Street: A vibrant marketplace featuring artisans, vendors, and traditional food stalls.
● Workshops: Hands-on workshops on traditional crafts, music, dance, and storytelling.
● Folk Music and Dance: Performances by local and international artists showcasing the diverse musical traditions
of the region.

July 8, 2024
Kenya’s Fight Against Rising Poverty, Insights from the 2024 National Review Report

The Launch of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) Voluntary National Review Report 2024

By Melisa Mongina

Kenya’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Forum has released the 2024 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) Voluntary National Review (VNR) Report, marking an important step towards achieving the SDGs. Poverty, one of the indicators in the implementation of SDGs has been listed among the various challenges affecting the country’s economy due to its rapid rise.

In his speech on Wednesday during the report overview of SDGs, Samuel Kimote cited poverty as one of the indicators that has affected and reduced the country’s performance in the implementation of SDGs, adding that they are focusing on its eradication as CSOs.

“When you look at goal number one, poverty, you can note that it is increasing. In 2015 we were at 38.6% but currently, we are at 39.8%. This shows that poverty is increasing and whatever we do as CSOs remains relevant. This year’s theme is reinforcing the agenda 2030 focusing mostly on eradicating poverty in Kenya,” said Kimote.

He further stated that their main focus as CSOs on goal number one was to ensure poverty ends in Kenya.

“The methodology that we followed to come up with this plan was highly consultative. Each CSO noted their contribution to ending poverty in Kenya,” added Kimote.

Kimote emphasizes that there should be clarifications from the government as to why poverty continues to rise despite the economic growth reported in the 2024 economic survey.

“The government has provided the data. The report has only documented the collective efforts of all involved. For example, goal number one states that poverty has increased. So the government will tell us why that is so, yet the 2024 economic survey states that the country is growing at 5.6%,” said Kimote.

The 2024 VNR report gives a balanced insight, detailing both the accomplishments and the obstacles encountered over the past four years. The report emphasizes the vital contribution of various stakeholders, particularly civil society organizations, in promoting sustainable development.

According to Benson Kimani from UNDP Kenya, the increase in poverty has raised a lot of concerns despite having 17 goals that are equal and undivided.

“I think despite us having 17 goals which are all important and undivided, we realized something that is of great importance to us stakeholders which is the increase in poverty. In 2014 Kenya made a deal to move from a low-income economy to a medium-income economy,” noted Kimani.

George Awala, Co-chair of the SDGs Kenya forum, states that a lot of people are now falling into poverty than before thus urging the civil society, government, UN agencies, academia, and private sector to have a deep look at the situation.

“More people are falling into poverty than previously. We need to ask ourselves what we can do as a civil society. What can the government do? What can the UN agencies do? What can the private sector do? and also what can academia do? And I think the value of having a platform where we all come together to discuss issues around SDGs is that richness that comes from all these different players being able to talk, dialogue, and ensure that everyone’s voice is heard,” noted Awala.

Festus Wangwe, Director of Planning in the State Department of MSME, noted that the progress among key indicators such as poverty is not performing well. Further, he added that for them to reach their Vision 2030 target, their efforts need to be redoubled.

“What is of concern is that the progress registered in all the SDGs indicators remains on a soft track, which means we are unlikely to achieve the SDGs by 2030. Unfortunately, the progress among key indicators such as poverty is not performing well. So it implies that we need to redouble our efforts if we have to make significant progress towards the achievement of these goals,” emphasized Wangwe.

The 2024 VNR report has offered a detailed account of Kenya’s progress since the last review in 2020.

July 4, 2024
Caregivers to be Equipped with Proper Knowledge and Skills for the Improvement of Quality Childcare Services

Stakeholders celebrating the Day of the African Child

By Melisa Mongina

The Early Childhood Network for Kenya (ECDNeK) in partnership with the African Early Childhood Network has intensified Child Care advocacy initiatives by creating a nationwide awareness campaign on the importance of quality and affordable Child Care.

Speaking during the launch of the Child Care campaign dialogue, Philip Nzege, Directorate of Children Services, noted the importance of having a safe and secure environment for children adding that children should have trained personnel to ensure that they are well cared for.

” We will have to look at how children are taken care of in the environment. It must be safe and secure as it is stated very clearly in the Children’s Act 2022. We will also come up with a program to ensure that for one to be involved in childcare he/she must attain some training for proper care of the child,” noted Philip.

Further, Philip notes that child care is a collective responsibility that needs collaboration between stakeholders, the county, and the national government.

” One of the special directories involved closely with families is social development and parenting program. It is high time we need to bring this component of Child Care into the special directorate so that when we are talking about families and the challenges they face, that social development and parenting program can pick that issue and come up with the solutions,” added Philip.

He also emphasized the need for crafting units or courses that will teach students after completing university how to do parenting.

” The university provides solutions and fills the gap of communities. I think it is high time our higher education institutions craft a unit or a course so that when our sons and daughters complete university education, they can be taught how to do parenting,” urged Philip.

According to Dr. Teresa Mwoma, The National Coordinator at ECD Network Kenya, there is a need to empower caregivers for better quality Child Care services especially for children between the age of 0-10 years as it is the time when rapid development in children takes place.

“The first 1000 days is the first 3 years by extension to the 5th year which is very critical because there’s rapid brain development, providing the child with an environment that is stimulating all the senses with what the child is seeing, what the child can touch, taste, and hear. Exposing children to stimulating environments helps in developing their brains,” said Dr. Teresa.

The nationwide campaign’s implementation strategy will include coordination, advocacy at the national and county government levels, and learning and knowledge management. The campaign’s impact will be enhanced by leveraging national calendar days, such as the Day of the African Child.

June 27, 2024