Category: NEW

MPs Vets Gender and Equality nominee chairperson, Rehema Jaldesa

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.

November 22, 2024
The National Assembly Flags Fake news in circulation

The National Assembly leadership has flagged concerns over a fake and falsified list of purported cabinet nominees circulating on social media and online platforms,

The list, which claims to contain names of individuals allegedly appointed to key cabinet positions and which are awaiting Vetting has fueled public speculation and widespread debate.

However, in a formal statement, the House advised the public and media to treat the list with contempt and disdain, noting that it’s Fake since no official communication regarding any new cabinet nomination has reached the National Assembly.

“This list has not come through any official channels within the National Assembly, and we urge the public to disregard it, as no formal communication or announcement has been issued by the Office of the President,” stated.

The Speakers’ Office, responsible for managing communications between Parliament and the Executive, reiterated the need to rely on official sources for government appointments.

The House Leadership has emphasized that if such communication occurs, it will follow the normal channels to reach the public and media.

November 9, 2024
SportPesa Partnership Fuels Shabana FC’s Ambitious Future in Kenya’s Top-tier Football

Football Kenya Federation Premier League side, Shabana FC, is intent on changing its fortunes in this year’s local football season after receiving a boost of Kshs 75 million from Kenya’s leading gaming firm, SportPesa.

The sponsorship will cover three years with Shabana FC receiving Kes 25 million annually. The club which narrowly survived relegation last season after finishing 14th in the league now faces an uphill task in the new season that begins on August 24, 2024.

“This is a partnership and we are more than dedicated to making it a win-win collaboration. It is more about the commitment and impact and this promises a good fan experience which will attract much more talent,” said SportPesa Partnerships Manager Willis Ojwang.

He was backed up by SportPesa Head of Operations, Benard Chauro, who reiterated SportPesa’s purpose in developing sports in the country.

“Today marks another big milestone for us in the sponsorships and partnerships realm. We have been in this game for a while and going forward, the players should know that they have a reliable partner who can guarantee their success,” he commented.

With the partnership secured, Shabana FC was further challenged to nurture talents that eventually feed into the club’s talent pipeline.

“This partnership presents an opportunity to ensure a collaborative network for all stakeholders involved. Going forward, this should open a fruitful engagement to improve the outcomes. The youth are being given a chance to put themselves forward and make good from the efforts at hand.” said Innocent Muganda on behalf of the BCLB Chair, Jane Makau, as he lauded SportPesa for impacting the community positively.

Kisii Governor and Shabana FC patron, Simba Arati, acknowledged Shabana’s readiness to host its matches this season in the home ground which was closed for the better part of last season for renovations.

“Shabana used to host its matches at the Raila Odinga Stadium in the neighboring Homa Bay County with Gusii Stadium facing challenges but I’m happy to inform you that the pitch is ready for use.”

The partnership unveiling was also graced by the club’s fan association from different regions of the country who were grateful for the support. “Three years ago, we were at the National Super League (NSL) which was challenging competitively but we were able to draw out a clear vision. In those 3 years, we have achieved beyond our set goals. It is my promise to our partners that we will achieve our set goals even as we target the continental championships.” Said the Shabana Fan Association Representative, Onyonka.

Shabana FC is poised to begin their highly anticipated season on a high note, facing off Bidco United in a thrilling opening match this Saturday. The clash, set to take place at Thika Sub-County Stadium, marks the beginning of a new chapter for Shabana FC as they aim to solidify their status as contenders in the league.

August 24, 2024
Dominant Kabras RFC Triumphs Over Menengai Oilers in Dala7s

A player from Menengai Oilers confronts Kabras RFC’s Jackson Siketa during active play

Kabras RFC made a glorious return to the spotlight by claiming victory in the third leg of the SportPesa National 7s Circuit at the Dala 7s, defeating Menengai Oilers 24-5 in a thrilling final.

The Millers secured an early lead in the first half, with stunning performances from Patrick Lumumba, Jackson Siketa, and William Mwanji, propelling them to a commanding 17-0 lead. Both sides displayed high-spirited determination in the second half with Kabras prevailing to seal their second win in the circuit having beaten Kenya Harlequins (Quins), in the first leg at Christie 7s in Nairobi.

Fast-rising Kenya Under-20 player, Jackson Siketa, who emerged as the Most Valuable Player in the competition attributed their win to hard work, adequate training, and a good playing strategy. He was backed up by Kabras 7s Head Coach, Felix Ayange, who acknowledged the team effort displayed by his players.

“This is our first win ever in Dala 7s and it feels delicious considering the slow start to the competition. The team composition of young and seasoned players has ultimately bolstered the overall performance,” said Ayange.

Quins won the third place play-off match as KCB lifted the 5th place trophy while Strathmore and Homeboyz won the Challenge Trophy and 13th place trophy respectively. SportPesa’s Communications and Partnerships Manager, Willis Ojwang, expressed enthusiasm about the rising competitiveness in the circuit.

Kabras RFC players lift the Dala 7s trophy after emerging victorious.

“The return of the Olympians and the allure of the SportPesa rewards have significantly driven up the level of play. As we move to the Kabeberi 7s in Nairobi, we anticipate a vibrant atmosphere this coming weekend. We encourage the fans to come out in large numbers to cheer on their favorite teams,” Ojwang remarked.

Earlier, Kabras had annihilated Ingo 7s winners, Quins, with an outcome of 17-00 on their way to the finals of the second leg, as Menengai Oilers showed great determination with a 29-14 win against Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) on their way to meet Kabras in the finals.

Kenya Rugby Union CEO, Thomas Odundo while lauding the players for their good show in Kisumu, predicted an even more competitive leg of the SportPesa 7s in Nairobi with the return of the Olympians.

“Despite a slow start at Dala 7s, the tournament was a huge success with the national team players elevating the competition. We look forward to Kabeberi 7s with even higher expectations as we reach the halfway mark of the circuit,” noted Odundo.

Kabeberi 7s slated for the 24th and 25th of August, kicks off the first of the remaining three legs in the SportPesa National 7s Circuit, where the teams will continue battling it out for the ultimate cash prize of Kes 300,000.

August 19, 2024
KENYA HOLDS THE SECOND NATIONAL WORLD SKILLS COMPETITION

Kenya was formally admitted to WorldSkills International as the 84th member. The announcement was made during a virtual WSI General Assembly after members unanimously voted for Kenya’s admission to the prestigious global technical and vocational competition.

WorldSkills International WSI, is a non profit membership association open to agencies or bodies which have a responsibility for promoting vocational education and training in their respective countries or regions. Over the years it has continued to provide both a benchmark for high performance and an objective way to assess vocational excellence since it was founded in 1950 in Spain.

Following the ratification, the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA) was designated by the government of Kenya through the ministry of Education to take responsibility for the leadership, management and daily operation of WorldSkills Kenya. TVETA is therefore the official organizational agency representing Kenya at WSI.

In August 2021, WorldSkills Kenya organized a one-week pilot Mechatronics Competition at Dedan Kimathi University of Technology (DeKUT). The competition, which attracted 13 TVET colleges was aimed at offering the students a learning experience ahead of the National Skills Competition. The following year, Kenya assembled a team of four students who participated in three skills areas at the WorldSkills Africa Competition held at Swakopmund in Namibia. More than 100 competitors from ten African countries competed at the event. Kenya won a gold medal in Restaurant Services and Bronze in Cooking.

This success gave WorldSkills Kenya and partners from the private sector and development partners the confidence to stage a national competition and innovation week last year. Over 100 students from our TVET institutions and universities competed in 18 skill areas that were hosted at the Kenya School of TVET (12 skill areas), Boma International Hospitality College (2), Dedan Kimathi University of Science and Technology (2) while the Technical University of Kenya two skill areas.

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A team of 8 winners from seven skill areas (2 competitors in the Mechatronic skill area) was selected to represent the country at the WorldSkills International Competition in Lyon, France in September 2024.
This year WorldSkills Kenya in partnership with Kenya Association of Technical Training Institutes (KATTI), the industry and development partners has organized the second national skills competition, which will run from 19th Monday -23rd August 2024 at the Kenya School of TVET, Boma International College of Hospitality and Dedan Kimathi University of Technology.

The official opening ceremony of the Competition and Innovation Week will be held today 19th August 2024 at 2.00 p.m. at the Kenya School of TVET, Gigiri, Nairobi. The Chief guest of this event will be Hon. Julius Migosi Ogamba, Cabinet Secretary for Education.

This event is expected to attract about 5,000 people. The main activities will include Skills Competition, Innovation, Exhibitions/Pitching (commercialization), Keynote addresses and panel discussions.
Around 130 competitors from 48 TVET institutions will compete in 21 skill areas at the national competition. 17 skills will be held at The Kenya School of TVET, 2 at Boma International College of Hospitality and 2 at the Dedan Kimathi University of Technology.
The skills areas at the Kenya School of TVET include Information Network Cabling, CNC Turning, Mobile Applications Development, IT Software Solutions for Business, Welding, Wall and Floor Tiling, Autobody Repair, Plumbing and Heating, Electronics, Electrical Installations, Bricklaying, Hairdressing, Beauty Therapy, Fashion Technology, IT Network Systems Administration, Cyber Security and Water Technology.

Boma International Hospitality College will host Cooking and Restaurant Services while Dedan Kimathi University of Technology will host Mechatronics and Mechanical Engineering CAD. However, the competition at DeKUT will be held a week later.

WorldSkills Kenya has trained 50 Experts and Judges who will adjudicate during competition on how to develop marking schemes and test projects.
The competitions in the National Skills Competition 2024 will be enriched with industry-based developed test projects. These test projects have been meticulously crafted in collaboration with industry experts, ensuring that they reflect real-world challenges and requirements. By incorporating industry-based test projects, we aim to elevate the competition to new heights of authenticity and relevance.

The National Skills competition will bring together young people, industry, government and education institutions to create linkages for collaboration in skills development. The event is a national platform for promotion and recognition of skilled people through TVET and their importance in achieving economic growth. The National Skills Competition will encompass practical skill challenges, industry- standard assessments, and showcasing of interactive Innovations. Competitors will be evaluated based on their technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, time management, and teamwork.
Each participant will have the opportunity to learn from international best practices and gain valuable insights to enrich their skills. Participants will engage in practical simulations, problem-solving exercises, and collaborative projects that highlight the transformative capabilities of their skills. Adhering to international best practices, the competition will be conducted with utmost fairness and transparency, ensuring a level playing field for all.

August 19, 2024
Senator Onyonka calls for scrutiny over JKIA leasing to Adani Airport Holdings Limited

During a session of the Senate Standing Committee on Roads, Transport, and Housing today, Senator Richard Onyonka’s review of his statement regarding the JKIA and Adani Airport Holdings limited raised significant concerns about the leasing of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) under a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model to Adani Airport Holdings Limited.

Senator Onyonka requested a detailed report on the transaction, highlighting several critical issues that require urgent attention. He questioned whether JKIA had incurred any financial losses due to this deal and sought clarification on whether other options were considered.

He pointed out that a Chinese company, Greenfield, was initially involved in a similar project with the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA). However, their contract was abruptly terminated, leading to the state paying Ksh. 4.7 Billion in compensation. He questioned where the funds for this compensation originated and whether it was accounted for in the national budget.

Onyonka demanded transparency regarding the selection criteria, asking why Adani was favored over other bidders and what specific terms they proposed. He raised concerns about Adani’s request to employ non-Kenyans and to set their employment terms and conditions.

Senator Onyonka urged the committee to obtain detailed information from relevant entities, including the KAA and the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Committee, to evaluate the viability of the PPP arrangement. Senators of the committee compared the Adani deal to the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project, where transferring control to the Kenyan government proved challenging.

The senator also highlighted conflicting statements from the KAA and the government regarding the deal, calling for clarity. An essential aspect of the senator’s inquiry is the current valuation of JKIA.

Onyonka stressed the need to determine the airport’s worth and the fees it collects to assess the fairness of any PPP deal. He also questioned whether the Adani proposal targets only JKIA or includes other airports in the country, emphasizing the lack of clear details. He insisted on confirming whether stakeholders at JKIA were consulted before finalizing the deal.

The senator proposed examining the 2019 Parliamentary report by the Committee of Transport, led by Hon. Pkosing, to ensure its recommendations were considered in the Adani agreement.

The committee chaired by Sen. Paul Thangwa, with Sen. Peris Tobiko as the Vice Chairperson, members Senators Chute Mohamed, John Kinyua, Enoch Wambua, and Edwin Sifuna seeks answers and clarity on this high-stakes transaction and recommended inviting Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, the KAA Managing Director, and the PPP Committee to provide comprehensive details about the Adani proposal in the next 14 days.

Senator Edwin Sifuna echoed Senator Onyonka’s concerns, criticizing the current PPP law for treating Parliamentary approvals as optional. He promised to push for amendments to make such approvals mandatory for all PPP projects, beyond just minerals and natural resources.

Senator Onyonka cited Article 125 of the Constitution, empowering the committee to summon any person to give evidence or provide information and enforce witness attendance and document production. Section 40(3) of Cap 430 which specifies the detailed information required in a privately-initiated proposal, which must be scrutinized thoroughly.

August 1, 2024
Wetang’ula to Kalonzo : Stop the hardline Stance

National Assembly Speaker Hon. Moses Wetang’ula has asked Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka to drop the hardline stance against forming a government of inclusivity and a broad-based cabinet.

Wetang’ula said it was unfortunate that the former Vice President rejected President William Ruto’s plea to Azimio leaders to form a government of national unity.

Speaking in Bungoma County, Wetang’ula challenged the Kalonzo-led Azimio leaders to collaborate with President Ruto noting that the formation of a broad-based cabinet is aimed at addressing demands that were raised by pro-reform youths.

He noted that the current state of the country is delicate and requires selflessness from politicians to restore stability.

“It is through the selfless and patriotic actions of the political class that national healing will be stimulated after the recent period of youth-led demands for reforms and improved governance,” said Wetang’ula.

The Speaker made the remarks when he laid the foundation stone for the construction of the Webuye East Technical and Vocational College in Bungoma County.

He was accompanied by Bungoma senator Wafula Wakoli, MPs John Waluke, John Makali, Didmus Barasa, and the host Martin Pepela among other leaders.

He welcomed ODM leader Raila Odinga’s decision to have key members of his party nominated to the Cabinet, noting that the move would cool down political temperatures and stimulate healing of the nation.

“Former Prime Minister Odinga’s move is patriotic and has reinforced President Ruto’s efforts to heal and restore stability in the country,” said Wetang’ula.

Wetang’ula said there was still time for the Kalonzo-led team to abandon its hardline stance and collaborate in forming a government of national unity.

The Speaker said the government of national unity was essential to achieving Kenya’s economic stability and prosperity.

The Speaker further said Odinga’s critics who are lashing at him for opting to work with the government were wrong and asked them to rethink their stand.

He noted that jubilations that greeted the nomination of ODM leaders to the cabinet in their backyards were a sign of acceptance.

“The reception by supporters of leaders from the Opposition nominated to the Cabinet coupled by a warm welcome accorded to President Ruto by locals in Mombasa recently should be an eye opener to those opposed to the decision by the Head of State,” he added.

And when he spoke later on at Nzoia sugar factory during a meeting with staff and farmers, Wetang’ula took issue with Luhya MPs who poured cold water on President Ruto’s decision to work with the Opposition.

He noted that the MPs who have gone public lashing at the president and planning a rally in Kakamega to chat the way forward for the Mulembe nation after the move are lost.

“I appeal to Luhya leaders opposing President Ruto’s initiatives, reminding them that Kenya’s well-being surpasses individual interests and urge them to respect the leaders appointed to serve in the government,” he said.

He added: “Why is it that it is only in Western that leaders are agitated with the president’s move? We have seen local people celebrate in Nyanza, Central, and Coast!”

Wetang’ula noted that the Nzoia sugar factory which has been on its knees due to financial challenges is on a recovery path after the government injected funds and reforms.

He noted that the government recently disbursed Kshs.150 million to settle salary arrears of staff and promised them that the balance would be cleared.

He noted that the resumption of cane crushing by the Mill was a positive move that is giving hope to farmers who rely on it for their livelihood.

July 27, 2024
Integrity Watch Lobby Group Calls for Political Accountability and Respect for Rule of Law

Mr Ouma Jowi, National Coordinator Integrity Watch addressing the Press Conference

A governance lobby group has warned foreign forces that could be keen on interfering in Kenya’s political system to keep off the country’s internal affairs, while at the same time calling for mature politics, good governance, and constitutionalism from the government.

Integrity Watch says Kenya is a sovereign state and should therefore be left alone to run her affairs without external interference from states or formations wanting to drive their agenda.

Terming itself a collaboration of organizations and individual anti-corruption crusaders, bloggers, activists, and whistleblowers, Integrity Watch reaffirms that they have a mandate to give full effect to Chapter 6 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010 on leadership and integrity.

Addressing a media conference in Nairobi today, the lobby underscored the need for observation of the rule of law, constitutionalism, and democracy in Kenya, holding all political leaders to account on the backdrop of anti-government picketing staged by the Gen Z bracket witnessed in recent weeks.

“The past few days our country has seen remarkable social movements for democratic change around the country…they have demanded greater justice and dignity, more transparent political processes, a fair share of political power and an end to corruption,” a statement by Mr. Ouma Jowi, National Coordinator Integrity Watch, reads in part.

“The rule of law and democracy are interlinked and mutually reinforcing. The rule of law is based on key democratic principles such as equality before the law, accountability, separation of powers, and participation in decision-making. Like democracy, the rule of law is a principle of governance anchored in participatory and consultative processes. To be legitimate, laws should be widely consulted and reflective of society’s needs and values.”

Jowi noted that a democratically elected parliament and a vibrant and strong civil society movement stand to provide ideal mechanisms for realizing the previous.

The lobby group condemned what it termed continuous incitements and the barrage of hate speech in political gatherings and on social media, urging Kenyans to hold dear the fact that we have only one country which is irreplaceable in case it is destroyed.

Among the demands Integrity Watch gave to the political leadership and Kenyans in general are that all social movements should uphold patriotism and constitutionalism, politicians to embrace tolerance and respect to such movements, and all social movements to consider dialogue on their different platforms in a bid to foster peace and unity.

July 17, 2024
Mediamax’s Nakuru based Reporter Shot by Police during Protest

MediaMax journalist, Catherine Wanjeri was injured during protests.

Mediamax Limited journalist Catherine Wanjeri was on Tuesday, July 16 shot while covering anti-government protests in Nakuru city county.

The journalist was allegedly shot twice in the thigh by police officers from the photos depicted online.

During the demos, the reports indicate how Wanjeri was wearing a press jacket and had a press card during the shooting incident only to be shot while exercising her duty.

The Mediamax scribe was rushed to the Valley Hospital in Nakuru for immediate treatment as the Nakuru-based Press association released a statement condemning the act.

The Association has called for a thorough probe into the matter. “We condemn such violence against journalists and demand that the government and police take immediate action against the rogue officers involved” Nakuru Journalists Association statement read.

The statement further read, “We will not relent in our further pursuit of justice. We extend our deepest appreciation to the good Samaritan who acted swiftly to take Ms. Catherine to the hospital.”

Wanjeri was among three people who were shot at by the police in Nakuru. The second person was shot in the leg while the third one was shot in the back.

The shooting of the journalist caused uproar online with netizens condemning security officers over the incident.

Nakuru-based journalist said, “This arbitrary and violent act against a member of the press, who was identified by her press jacket, is unacceptable. Such attacks on journalists and the clampdown on the fourth estate undermine the fundamental principles of press freedom and threaten the very core of our democracy.”

Other social media users wondered why the journalist was shot yet she was wearing a press jacket.

July 16, 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