Kenya’s National Assembly will collaborate with their Switzerland counterpart to put in place mechanisms that would foster free trade, Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has said.
Wetang’ula said a delegation of Swiss parliamentarians will visit Kenya in January to kick-start the plans.
The Speaker made the remarks when he hosted the Swiss Ambassador to Kenya, Mirko Giulietti, who had paid him a courtesy call in his office at Parliament Buildings.
The two leaders also discussed how to strengthen the bilateral relationship.
Speaker Wetang’ula noted that through the Parliamentary Friendship Group, the two legislative bodies can expand their engagement in what is expected to add value to the two nations.
“Kenya can benefit a lot from market opportunities in Switzerland through the free trade initiative,” said Wetang’ula.
The Ambassador said Swiss MPs have scheduled a visit to the Kenyan National Assembly to commence the engagements.
Wetang’ula noted that although the House would be on a long recess during the period, he would mobilize MPs for a meeting with their Swiss counterparts.
While welcoming the envoy, who is only three months old in the office, Wetang’ula pointed out that Kenya and Switzerland enjoy unique similarities of being mini capitals for several missions in the world.
He informed the envoy that he had put in place a team of parliamentary lawyers to come up with a legal framework borrowed from Switzerland on how to manage Nairobi city.
The Speaker commended Switzerland for its admirable neutrality in the conflict that bedeviled Europe, noting that the move made her the best choice to be the center of international activities.
The Ambassador thanked the Speaker for the warm welcome, noting that the meeting was important to him as he settled into office.
“I am only three months old in Kenya, and this courtesy call is for familiarisation purposes and also to seek the support of the National Assembly to strengthen the diplomatic relations,” he said. Director Speaker’s Office Mr. Steve Apopo attended the meeting.
During a round-table meeting today with the President of the Supreme Court of Kenya and Chief Justice, Justice Martha Koome, members of the Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) today sought potential areas of collaboration to tackle the rising sexual gender-based violence (SGBV) cases in the country.
The Chairperson and Kajiado County MP, Leah Sankaire, shared key legislative frameworks that legislators have championed towards addressing SGBV cases, for instance, the Protection Against Domestic Violence Act (2015), the Sexual Offences Act (2006), the Children’s Act (2022), and the Penal Code and Prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation Act (2011).
She also highlighted the oversight and accountability role played by Members of Parliament to ensure that the SGBV cases receive the attention and action they demand.
However, Sankaire raised concerns over the increasing frequency of SGBV cases in the country, questioning whether the current legal framework was insufficient.
She added that the movement of SGBV desks to hospitals from the police stations would provide victims with more access to the judicial system and timely support.
In addition, the KEWOPA chairperson called on the judiciary to ensure that their registries capture the history of SGBV offenders and review SGBV jurisprudence for any bail to SGBV offenders.
On strengthening collaboration, Martha Koome highlighted the judiciary’s commitment to addressing the rising GBV cases. She noted that the judiciary had already set up SGBV courts in some parts of the country, with the latest one launched recently in Dagoretti.
However, she cautioned that the rapid rise in cases poses a challenge due to inadequate SGBV courts and magistrates.
To address the SGBV cases amicably, Senator Catherine Mumma (nominated) called for a multi-sectoral approach with a forum and data tools on how to report such cases.
Dagoretti North MP, Beatrice Elachi, underscored the importance of having SGBV courts in all counties, if not constituencies.
Adding to the challenges encountered by SGBV victims, Senator Gloria Orwoba warned that the delay in assigning investigative officers to SGBV cases could lead to tampering with cases.
Nairobi County MP Esther Passaris highlighted a worrying trend of SGBV offenders being granted bail, which she said could often lead to cases disappearing in courts.
Njoro MP, Charity Chepkwony, noted the delay in receiving reports from the government chemist, thus slowing down justice to victims.
To reduce time taken and financial pressure by SGBV victims and witnesses while seeking justice, the Transzoia County MP, Lilian Siyoi, called for a wholesome approach to ensure that SGBV courts are situated in all parts of the country.
Kasipul Kabondo MP, Eve Obara, emphasized the need for the judiciary to observe timelines and strict adherence to their service charter.
On her part, Thika MP, Alice Ng’ang’a pointed out the need to lobby for more funds for the Judiciary and Gender Ministry.
While noting the concerns of the Women MPs, the Judge of Appeal, who is also a Member of the International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ), Hon. Lady Justice Lydia Achode, commended women lawmakers for a multi-sectoral approach and movement of SGBV desks from police stations to hospitals, noting that there are few experts in the police stations as well as in the government chemists to deal with SGBV cases.
On issuance of bail to offenders, Principal Magistrate Renee Kitagwa told the legislators that the Judiciary is guided by the constitution when granting bail and that when advised by Police Officers, they do listen and deny bail.
In her closing remarks, CJ Koome appealed to women lawmakers to advocate for increased funding to the judiciary to facilitate the establishment of more SGBV courts and the hiring of additional magistrates.
Parliament has passed the Public Finance Management Amendment (No. 3) Bill, 2024, with amendments. The bill seeks to amend the Public Finance Management Act to provide for the financing of transferred functions between the two levels of government following Article 187 of the Constitution.
County governments will be required to submit quarterly reports on their status of statutory deductions, including repayment plans for outstanding amounts. A new provision was added to address delays or failures by county governments in remitting employee salaries and statutory deductions, including taxes, pensions, and social health insurance contributions.
The bill also empowers the Controller of Budget to withhold funds from counties that persistently fail to remit statutory deductions like taxes, pension contributions, and social security.
Counties will now have more time to submit county finance documents. This follows MPs endorsing an amendment extending the timeline for submitting county fiscal strategy papers to the county assembly from February 28 to March 7, and the period for publishing the papers was increased from 14 to 21 days.
Lawmakers noted that the amendments will strengthen financial discipline and accountability in counties, ensuring timely remittance of statutory deductions and improving cash flow management.
Speaking on the Bill, Chairperson of Finance and National Planning, Kimani Kuria, pointed out, “The provisions addressing the financing of transferred functions are designed to avoid disruptions in service delivery during the transfer process. By requiring clear agreements on asset and liability management, the amendments mitigate potential disputes between the two levels of government.”
Gerald Arita, the nominee for Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Kenya, has informed Parliament that his 36 years of experience in various roles within the institution have thoroughly equipped him to assume the position if his appointment is approved.
Appearing before the joint-led committee by Mandera Senator Ali Roba and Molo MP Kuria Kimani Senate and National Assembly Finance, he revealed that he played a pivotal role in establishing mobile money banking.
Arita told the MPs that then Safaricom CEO Michael Joseph approached him. At the same time, he served as the Director for Bank Supervision with the idea of the telecommunications company coming up with a system in which money could be sent using mobile phones. After that, he advised then Finance Minister John Michuki on the importance of the matter, which was adopted.
“I was the first person that Safaricom met when it wanted to share a money transfer proposal. Michael Jackson met me when they were introducing M-Pesa. I had a choice of chasing him away or listening to him. I took the initiative to listen to him and went through the product finally and gave them a pilot license; that was one of my biggest achievements.”
He added, “I then proceeded after that by advising then Finance Minister late John Michuki on the importance of the government allowing that, and it has now revolutionized how money transactions in the country are carried out,” emphasized Arita.
Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale questioned Arita on how he plans to avoid potential conflicts with Central Bank Governor Kamau Thugge, raising concerns that he, having served at the Central Bank for his entire career since joining as a management trainee in 1988.
‘’ Listening to your long resume, you’ve been very senior in the bank, and I’m afraid because this many years in the bank you ran the risk of being a Mr. ‘‘know it all,’’ to the extent you might not accept to work under the governor of the central bank who has not grown in the central bank unless you convince us we might not recommend you.’’
“I’m a team player; there is no fear the Governor of the Central Bank has the duty of allocating responsibilities to the two Deputy Governors based on their experience and expertise. I do not see how there will be conflict among us since each one of us has got his clear roles to play spelled out; I have represented CBK to market the Eurobond in the US together before, and we’ve worked together when he was a PS,” said Arita.
Turkana South MP, John Ariko, inquired about the new measures the nominee intends to introduce to the institution, seeking clarification on the security of Kenya’s currency printing, which is currently being handled in Germany, raising concerns about the potential risk of unauthorized individuals replicating the currency abroad.
If approved, Arita stated that he is committed to ensuring better market coordination and increased liquidity, highlighting the ongoing efforts to provide cash transfers to vulnerable communities as a means of empowerment. He added that lowering inflation remains a key priority, assuring that money printing processes are secure and tamper-proof.
Baringo North MP Joseph Makilap questioned Arita, saying he was satisfied with his accomplishments so far and ready to retire, and why he chose to apply for the job instead of enjoying a peaceful retirement.
Arita said, “I retired last month having attained 60 years having served the country in the Central Bank in various capacities for the last 36 years but I still have energy and the necessary experience to serve the country, That is why I believe President William Ruto has nominated me to this position and if approved by this house, I will work.’’
Kenya has 40 commercial banks, while Nigeria has 20. It is not easy to regulate the number of commercial banks in the country, but the market will determine their viability.
Mombasa Senator, Mohammed Faki, asked Mr. Arita to comment on the incidents of clients being defrauded in their Bank accounts and what the possible solutions he will offer to end Arita clarified that it’s a serious issue with the Central Bank doing penetration vetting to seal off any loopholes that may lead to customers losing their money with cyber security centers being set up.
Arita’s net worth is KES 169 million, with his home contributing significantly to this figure. Although he built the house 20 years ago for KES 20 million and acquired the land for KES 5 million, he has valued the property at its current market rate, reflecting its appreciation over time.
The National Assembly Select Committee on Diaspora Affairs and Migrant Workers conducted an inspection visit today to various specialized training institutions and homecare schools in Mombasa County.
Leading the delegation, Capt. Ruweida Mohammed, MP (Lamu East), stated that the primary purpose of the visit was to assess whether unskilled workers receive adequate training before traveling for work abroad.
The Committee visited the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA), Dzikaze Muhoho Training Institute, and Apsolid Vocational Training Institute (AVOTI).
During interactions with students at Dzikaze Muhoho, concerns were raised regarding difficulties with the pre-departure examination. One student shared her experience of working abroad and returning to Kenya, only to be required to restart classes and retake the pre-departure exam, which she repeatedly failed.
Among the topics taught at these training institutions are practical skills such as washing clothes using a washing machine, making the bed, using kitchen appliances, cleaning mirrors, woofing carpets and curtains, taking care of children, and learning basic Arabic language to aid communication in work environments abroad.
Committee Members and NITA officials pledged to address issues raised and urged NITA to develop a system for refresher courses tailored to returning candidates.
The Committee commended the modern and well-maintained facilities at Apsolid Institute.
However, during the inspection of NITA’s training center, Members expressed concerns about the incomplete state of the facility and the lack of essential training equipment.
Acting Director General Ms. Theresa Wasike informed the Committee that the project, funded by the International Labour Organization, had faced delays due to the termination of the contractor’s contract.
“Efforts are underway to appoint a new contractor on a contract basis.” said Ms. Wasike.
The session chair urged NITA to expedite the procurement of model house equipment to enhance training efficiency.
Photo Collage of Committee Chairperson, National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) and Commisioner Nominee, Hon Rehema Jaldesa
The nominee for Chairperson of National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC), Rehema Jaldesa, has pledged to restore the Commission’s influence and effectiveness should she be approved by the House and consequently get appointed to head the Constitutional Commission.
“If appointed as Chairperson of the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC), I will restore its lost glory” pledged Rehema Dida Jaldesa today during her vetting before the Committee on Social Protection.
Led by Alice W. Ng’ang’a (Thika Town), the Committee also vetted Mr. Michael Nzomo Mbithuka, who has been nominated to be a Member of the Commission. Legislators were keen to assess the nominees’ capacity to serve in the Commission.
She described herself as a passionate advocate against gender-based discrimination and highlighted her tenure as Isiolo County Women Representative (2017–2022) as well as other numerous engagements as evidence of her commitment to gender equality.
She reported to have extensive experience in combating cases of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), Gender-Based Violence (GBV), early childhood marriages, defilement, and discrimination against the vulnerable in society.
Members engaged the nominee on what she would do in support of the country’s goal to end Gender-Based Violence by 2026.
Jaldesa proposed a multi-sectoral approach involving government agencies, civil society, and grassroots communities. She emphasized creating operational gender desks and fostering partnerships with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to curb gender violence, including cyberbullying and psychological torture.
Jaldesa also called for legislative support to bridge gaps in gender equality and social inclusion, citing the need for sustained advocacy for the implementation of the two-thirds gender rule.
The Committee further sought to know what the nominee would do differently given that currently NGEC has been predominantly silent on major issues with their last media appearance being months ago.
The nominee pledged to enhance the Commission’s visibility and effectiveness by fostering resource mobilization and partnerships. She decried NGEC’s limited public engagement and emphasized the importance of being vocal in order to foster collaborations and keep the conversation going.
Reflecting on her personal experiences, Jaldesa remarked that “I have lived through gender-related challenges in my own life. My passion, combined with my professional experience, positions me as the best candidate to lead the Commission.”
The Committee reiterated the crucial need to put a stop to femicide cases. The resolve echoes the declaration by H.E. the President for a six-month action plan to address rising cases of femicide and Gender-Based Violence, highlighted by the nation recording 97 cases since August 2024.
Jaldesa also undertook to align with the Government’s renewed focus and assured the Committee of her dedication to this fight, saying, “The Commission must play its rightful role in holding all sectors accountable in ending these vices.”
The Committee also vetted Mr. Michael Nzomo Mbithuka, nominated for a Member of the Commission. Mr. Nzomo, who lives with albinism, shared his personal experiences of discrimination as a high school student that led to deterioration in his academic performance.
He highlighted the need for inclusive development, inclusive learning and equity, adding that his academic performance improved only after a teacher helped him through the effects of getting discriminated against.
Responding to the Committee’s concerns about the neglect of the boy-child, Mr. Nzomo stressed the importance of equally promoting empowerment and mentorship among the male gender as well.
“We must advocate for the inclusion of boys and men at pivotal stages of their lives, such as during cultural practices including circumcision and in mainstream sectors such as education in order to foster a balanced society”, he stated.
Speaking of his expertise in digital innovation and corporate partnerships, Mr. Nzomo highlighted research and knowledge management as key resources in developing targeted and impactful gender initiatives.
He stated that his extensive experience would play a leading role in enhancing NGEC’s research strategies and operations. He also stated the need for greater public engagement and advocacy to address systemic gender inequalities.
“I will ensure NGEC’s approach to collaborations is strengthened and also hold the Government accountable in support of gender laws and regulations”, he pledged.
The Committee on Social Protection is scheduled to table its report on the vetting process in the National Assembly on Tuesday, November 26, 2024.
Trade, Industry, and Cooperative MPs have urged the State Department for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Development to raise awareness about the affirmative action funds available to the public to enhance their uptake.
Chaired by James Gakuya (Embakasi North), while speaking during a consultative meeting with officials from the Cooperatives and MSMEs Development Ministry led by CS Wycliffe Oparanya, observed that many Kenyans have limited information on the funds.
The Uwezo Fund and the Financial Inclusion Fund (FIF), commonly known as the Hustler Fund, are among the affirmative action financing programs overseen by the State Department.
“Many potential beneficiaries have limited access to information about these funds, which has hindered their full utilization,” said the committee chairperson.
Gakuya, reacting to reports that more than half of the beneficiaries of both Uwezo Fund and Hustler Fund loans have defaulted on their repayment, attributed this to a lack of sufficient information.
“It is ironic that other digital lenders who offer loans at higher interest rates are thriving with fewer defaulters compared to the Hustler Fund. The Ministry must examine what other industry players are doing differently,” he said.
Committee Vice Chairperson Marianne Kitany of Aldai, while adding her voice to the matter, emphasized the importance of utilizing local leaders to disseminate information about the funds.
“Many of us leaders have strong platforms at the grassroots level through which we can share information about the funds. The issue is that we have not been adequately engaged,” said Kitany.
During the session, CS Oparanya reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BeTA) and stressed the role of the Uwezo Fund as a key component of this vision.
He noted that the Uwezo Fund has been instrumental in supporting groups such as cooperatives, women, youth, and persons with disabilities and has expanded its reach through decentralized financial support.
“The Uwezo Fund remains the most practical tool for advancing priority value chains and promoting sustainable community development,” he stated.
Earlier, Anne Njuguna, the Chairperson of the Uwezo Fund, updated MPs on the fund’s progress, revealing that funds have been disbursed to 82,583 groups across all 290 constituencies.
She informed the lawmakers that the fund’s repayment rate stands at Ksh 3.07 billion, which represents a low 41%.
“The high level of non-performing loans is hindering the realization of the fund’s mandate,” she explained, attributing the problem to the misconception that the fund is a grant.
In addition to discussing the affirmative action funds, the committee also reviewed the Proposed Revision of Uwezo Fund Regulations (2014), Business Model Re-engineering, and the Start-Up Bill 2024.
The National Assembly Committee on Cohesion and Equal Opportunities questioned managers of four government agencies on the ethnic imbalance in staff recruitment.
The Committee, during a meeting chaired by Mandera West, Yusuf Adan Haji, held accountability meetings with the Chief Executive Officers of Lake Victoria South Water Development Agency and Lake Basin Development Authority.
Other agencies that faced the House Committee included the Lake Victoria North Water Works Development Agency, Rivatex East Africa, and Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital.
Haji pointed out that the meetings were a follow-up of similar ones they held with the agencies and directed them to deal with disparities in ethnic balance in employment as required by the law.
“We have invited the managers of the agencies to make a follow-up on whether they have complied with the law on ethnic balance and the provision of equal opportunities in the state-owned agencies,” said Haji.
Lake Victoria South Water Works Development Agency (LVSWWDA) CEO Ms. Jackline Kemunto was tasked with why she did not comply with the law that required that at least five percent of staff should be people living with disabilities (PLWDs).
Nyeri Town MP Duncan Mathenge wondered why the agency declined to provide job opportunities to PLWDs.
“The last report you presented to the Committee showed you were moving upwards in complying with the law, but the latest report has indicated a decline,” said Mathenge.
Teso North MP, Oku Kaunya, dismissed Ms. Kemunto’s claims that they could not employ PLWDs because they did not apply for jobs whenever they advertised.
“How far did the advertisements for jobs for PLWDs reach? Did you use the mediums that they could access easily?” posed the Teso North MP.
Kaunya and Mathenge called on the agencies to invoke affirmative action in the recruitment of PLWDs to be able to meet the requirements of the law.
The Lake Basin Development Authority CEO, Mr. Wycliffe Ochianga, was turned away by the Committee after he tabled documents bearing unconvincing evidence.
Lake Victoria North Works Water Development Agency CEO Mr Joel Wamalwa and Rivatex Managing Director Prof Thomas Kipkurgat were also taken to task by Members on compliance with the law on procurement, employment of youths and PLWDs, and ethnic balance.
But it is the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) CEO, Dr. Philip Kirwa, who ran into trouble with the Committee after it was revealed that 70 percent of staff in the institution were from one tribe.
During a session chaired by Mwingi North MP, Eng. Paul Nzengu, MPs expressed their disappointment that the management of the national medical facility had turned it into a tribal institution.
The Committee threatened to push for the sending of the management of MTRH home if they were not ready to comply with the law on employment.
“It is shocking that Eldoret city, the home for MTRH, being a cosmopolitan urban area member of many tribes living there, was denied jobs by the management of the hospital,” said Nzengu.
Kaspul MP, Charles Were noted with concern that one community-dominated promotion in the hospital.
“How do you explain a situation where out of more than 600 promotion opportunities, one community got 90 percent?” posed Were.
Other MPs who questioned the failure of Dr. Kirwa to ensure the hospital complied with the law included Charles Kamuren (Baringo South), Mary Maingi (Mwea), Onesimus Ngogoyo (Kajiado North), Mathenge, Fred Ikana (Shinyalu), and Irene Mayaka (nominated).
The Special Funds Accounts Committee has raised concerns over the purpose and effectiveness of the State Officers and Public Officers Motor Car Loan Scheme (SOPOMCLS).
During a meeting convened to address pending audit queries, Legislators revealed that the fund valued at Kshs. 3.8 billion, has only facilitated transactions worth Kshs. 641 million since its inception.
According to reports by the Auditor-General, the fund was dormant between 2015 and 2019, with Kshs. 3 billion sitting idle during that period.
Further analysis of audit reports uncovered an alleged accounting error where a car grants worth Kshs.9.8 million was recorded in the wrong ledger.
The scheme’s CEO, Edna Atisa, explained that the fund was established to provide car loans to state officers in the Executive and civil servants under the Public Service Commission.
She attributed the delay in the fund’s operationalization to challenges in securing a financial institution to administer the scheme.
MPs questioned the necessity of involving a financial institution that charges a 1 percent interest fee, suggesting that the fund could manage loan processing internally.
Atisa further stated that the accounting query was because the fund at its inception lacked capacity and therefore staff from the National Treasury, initially managed the fund. Members questioned the competency of the officers who had handled the matter.
Currently, Kshs. 3.4 billion of the fund is invested with the Central Bank of Kenya, generating a profit of Kshs. 533 million through government securities.
Lawmakers criticized this approach, arguing that the fund prioritizes investments over fulfilling its mandate of offering car loans to state and public officers.
“Does this Car Loan Scheme exist to provide car loans to state and public officers, or is your mandate to focus on investments while your clients are neglected?” Session-Chair, sought Kivasu.
The Committee has directed the fund’s management to reappear for further investigation of financial records leading to 2024.
In a separate meeting, the Committee examined pending audit queries linked to the Public Service Superannuation Fund.
The fund’s CEO, Dr. Jonah Aiyabei was tasked to respond to unremitted pension contributions from employers over a one-year period.
Dr. Aiyabei attributed the issue to system lags during the fund’s initial operations and assured Members that an automated system is being developed and will be operational by March 2025.
The National Treasury is required to pay a penalty in line with the fund’s regulations for the delayed remittances. The Committee directed the fund’s management to present additional evidence to support their responses to the audit query.
Shisele Tosha Community Based Organization (CBO) has called for increased government funding on development projects.
Speaking during a visit to Parliament, the Women Based CBO raised concerns that the current grant offered to them for development initiatives is insufficient.
“I request that Parliament and the Commissioner assist us and other CBOs in the county. Why should we be given Kshs 100,000 when we could receive millions in grants to uplift our communities?” she asked.
In a historic event, Commissioner Rachel Ameso, on Wednesday hosted Shisele Tosha Community-Based Organization (CBO) at Parliament’s Mini Chamber in County Hall.
The engagement forum marked the first time a CBO has been officially hosted by the Parliament of Kenya, showcasing a growing recognition of grassroots organizations in national development.
Hon. Bernard Shinali (Ikolomani), celebrated the milestone as a proud moment for his constituents.
“This is the first time Parliament has hosted a CBO since its inception, and it happens to come from my constituents. I am very happy,” he said.
Discussions during the meeting revolved around enhancing financial support for CBOs to enable them to create a more significant impact.
Gladys Omukongolo Malenya, MCA for Idakho North Ward and Chairperson of the CBO, passionately appealed for increased grants.
Rachel Ameso commended CBO members and pledged her full support for grassroots initiatives, particularly those led by women.
“I’m delighted to welcome you to Parliament. You have done an amazing job by forming this CBO. You are women with good hearts, and I will always support all women and Kenyans, starting with Ikolomani Constituency and the 11 constituencies in Kakamega,” she stated.
The event was graced by leaders, including Members of Parliament Mishi Mboko, Millie Odhiambo, Beatrice Elachi, Nabii Nabwera and former Kakamega County First Lady Priscilla Oparanya.
Their attendance underscored the importance of grassroots advocacy in driving national development.
This landmark event highlights the growing collaboration between Parliament and community-based organizations. It sets a new precedent for integrating local initiatives into Kenya’s national agenda, demonstrating Parliament’s commitment to empowering grassroots movements.
Shisele Tosha CBO’s visit symbolizes the power of women-led organizations to influence policy and underscores the importance of investing in community-driven solutions for sustainable development.
The Shisele Tosha CBO is a women-led initiative aimed at empowering communities through resource mobilization and innovative solutions.
