A delegation from Lamu, led by Lamu East Mp petitioned Parliament over Boni Forest
Hon. Ruweida Obo, representing Lamu East, spearheaded a delegation of 15 individuals from Boni Forest who lodged a petition regarding the degazettement of the forest.
In 2016, the Basuba Ward land within the Boni-Lungi area was designated as a state forest by the Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Natural Resources, and Regional Development Authorities.
Captain Ruweida said, “These communities lack basic amenities such as schools and land. There was a glaring absence of public participation in the decision-making process, and it’s imperative for the government to completely revoke the gazettement of this area.”
She added, “The government must heed the pleas of the Basuba people.”
The petitioners commended the efforts of Captain Ruweida Obo, noting the impassable roads and citing insecurities, urging the government to address the matter.
Mohammed Kitete, a leader among the petitioners from Basuba Ward said, “We demand the degazettement of Boni Forest and the return of the land to the community, enabling us to engage in our daily activities such as farming and livestock rearing.”
However, there is optimism among the petitioners, as they see a glimmer of hope following their petition to the National Assembly.
The lawmaker highlighted that the Dodori community, particularly the Aweer, a marginalized indigenous group, has suffered significant livelihood losses and is now calling upon the Lands Ministry, in collaboration with the Lamu County Government, to expedite the registration of Boni-Lungi as community land, as stipulated in Article 63(5) of the Constitution.
Obo said that the land in question is vital for the community’s sustenance, as it has been utilized for farming, gathering natural resources such as fruits and honey, and sourcing materials for traditional medicine and construction.
At the conclusion of IDA (International Development Association) for Africa Heads of State Summit, hosted by President William Ruto in Kenya, Nairobi, The ONE Campaign responds to a meeting that offered a bold ambition, Heads of State and non- state actors and delivered a critical and aspirational call for the biggest replenishment of all time.
Serah Makka, ONE’s Executive Director for Africa said: “President Ruto and other African Heads of State deserve the recognition and acknowledgement for setting the agenda and demand that finally reflects the scale of the Africa’s fiscal challenges and succeeded in highlighting the partnership needed to build an inclusive society and see the realization of Africa’s developmental goals.”
“A strong demand signal from Africa the required leadership for an ambitious IDA to provide concessional funding for low- and middle-income countries. The scale of the funding required for Africa to reach the SDGs is significant and in the trillions of dollars. But we need to start from somewhere. IDA is a great place to start.
“The summit made some ambitious plans to grow the continent, including increased energy and digital access, job creation, alongside enhanced resilience to climate change and conflict. Heads of State and non-state leaders also expressed the continent’s determination for change, hope and desire to make the most of this pivotal moment of opportunity.”
“Now it is up to the contributors to IDA21. Will they act in solidarity to address challenges countries are facing that in many ways were caused by exogenous shocks to their economies – covid-19 pandemic, wars in Europe and the Middle East, rising interest rates. We need the scale and speed of financing to truly transformed Africa. Supporting the needs and plans of Africa benefits the world and builds a resilient economy that will withstand the shocks of future crises; however, this can only be achieved in solidarity, if the ambition displayed at this summit continues and leads to concrete action.”
From Left, Tana River Senator, Dan Mungatana, Bura Mp Yakub Adow Kuno and TTana River County MP, Amina Dika addressing the media in Parliament buildings
In an affecting display of unity and concern for their constituents, Tana River legislators, led by Senator Dan Mungatana, County MP Amina Dika, and Bura MP Yakub Adow Kuno, earlier today convened at Parliament Buildings to address the pressing issues of flooding in the region.
The ongoing floods, worsening by poor infrastructure and inadequate government response according to the legislators, have pressed the area into a state of emergency, prompting urgent appeals for immediate action.
Mungatana has lamented the tragic loss of lives due to the capsized boat incident, which claimed over 20 lives with many still missing.
Blaming both the floods and the neglect of crucial infrastructure, he has demanded swift government intervention to prevent further calamities.
“The Government should speed the movement and arrive in Tana River and to help us like any other Kenyans. The overflow of dams has brought disasters in our Tana River area.” Sen Mungatana said.
His emotional plea has underscored the dire need for improved road conditions and better disaster preparedness measures.
He added, “Focus on Tana River, we are not given priority and we have been left behind and the notice to move to higher areas is a short of short notice as there are no clear programs to move to that higher areas as suggested”
Mungatana has stressed the importance of providing sufficient warning to residents facing imminent threats.
He said, “We call for substantial investment in dam construction to mitigate the impact of future disasters, the government should prioritize the safety and well-being of Tana River residents and all Kenyan citizens.”
Echoing Mungatana’s sentiments, Women Representative Amina Dika emphasized the urgent need for long-term solutions to the recurrent flooding and water scarcity issues plaguing the region.
“It’s a sad day for us, our people were swept away, as leaders of the area we’ve noticed that all the time floods happen we’ve been always the victims, we say the government to have a system of water harvesting to curb this menace at all times.” Amina Dika says.
She added, “We need the government to respond by sending the rescue team to salvage the situation and CS Water and sanitation should employ serious curbing measures to stop these situation as life and animals have been lost”
With the looming threat of a cholera outbreak exacerbating an already dire situation, she urged decisive action from relevant authorities to safeguard public health and mitigate the risk of further tragedies.
Meanwhile, MP Yakub Adow Kuno directed scathing criticism at the Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA) for its failure to maintain crucial roads, which he attributed to the loss of lives in the recent incidents. Calling for accountability and swift action, he urged caution from citizens during the rainy season and demanded immediate measures to address the root causes of the ongoing crisis.
“The KENHA authority especially in Mororo area should be blamed for the poor emergency response, we’ve tried to reach to you but no response, you’re to be blamed in the past two weeks we’ve faced the same situation” Yakub Adow said.
He adds, “KENHA has shown inefficiency attributed as this is a situation you could have built these roads we should have curbed the situation, KENGEN has to blamed further because as also you’ve not proper sensitization to our people as electricity has killed people, animals and properties lost, you should compensate us too for the damage caused.”
The legislators issued a resounding call to the government to prioritize the welfare of Tana River residents by allocating resources for dam construction and implementing robust disaster management strategies.
As the nation watches with bated breath, the fate of Tana River hangs in the balance, awaiting the swift and concerted efforts of authorities to stem the tide of devastation.
The National Assembly Committee on Cohesion and Equal Opportunities, led by Hon Yussuf Haji, during a fact-finding Mission
The National Assembly Committee on Cohesion and Equal Opportunities is rooting for syllabuses and textbooks tailored for learners with special needs.
Led by chairman Yussuf Haji, members of the committee said academic programmes in special schools across the country are disjointed due to a lack of a syllabus and textbooks to guide teachers and learners.
“The committee’s fact-finding visits to special schools have established that the Education Ministry did not factor in the preparation of the syllabus and the supply of textbooks suited for children with special needs,” said Haji.
Haji said the Committee will recommend that when developing a curriculum for students with disabilities, key considerations should be individualizing learning plans tailored to each learner’s needs.
This, he said, will foster a supportive and inclusive learning environment, and provide accessible instructional materials and technologies, among others.
One team of the Committee toured Wire, Nyairicha, St Catherine, Malaba, and Mukhonje Special schools in Nyanza and Western regions, while another group conducted a similar tour in Nyeri and Nakuru counties.
Members of the Committee came face-to-face with a myriad of challenges facing the institutions, frustrating efforts to ensure learners access quality education.
“The challenges we encountered range from the deplorable state of infrastructure, lack of learning equipment and teaching guides, an acute shortage of teachers, and a lack of food,” said Haji.
He added: “Some school administrators told the committee that learners were starving and they had to borrow food from well-wishers to feed them.”
Kamkunji MP Yussuf Hassan said they will push the government to be sensitive to children with special needs seeking education.
“I am living with disability and so I have a better understanding of the needs of such people. Learners with special needs have a right to access quality education just like any other child,” he added.
Kasipul MP Charles Were said the Education Ministry should include promotion structures for teachers in special schools in the schemes of services to enable them to climb the professional ladder.
“Teachers shy away from special schools because there is no structured way of promoting them,” he noted.
The chairman noted that the committee has developed legislation that, if passed, will compel the government to pay caregivers of learners in special schools.
This is after the Committee established that in some schools, such caretakers had to quit due to non-payment of their dues.
Shinyalu MP Fredrick Ikana said there is a need for the government to double the capitation paid for each learner with special needs.
“The requirements for learners with special needs are many, and therefore it is illogical for them to be allocated the same amount of capital as normal students,” said Ikana.
The Committee called on the government to put all learners in special schools on medical cover.
During the press Briefing at Kayana Create offices Nairobi.
Kayana Create, a leading platform dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs, proudly announces the nominees for the prestigious 2024 Kayana Female MSME Awards.
This annual event, now in its third year, shines a spotlight on the remarkable achievements of female entrepreneurs in Kenya and beyond, celebrating their innovation, resilience, and leadership in driving economic growth and social impact.
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of global business,constituting 90 percent of businesses worldwide.
In Kenya, these enterprises play a pivotal role, contributing approximately 40% to
the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Moreover, SMEs represent a staggering 98 percent of all businesses in the country, generating 30 percent of new jobs annually.
Gender dynamics within Kenya’s SME landscape reveal a nuanced picture. Of the SMEs in Kenya, 31.4 percent are female-owned, while 48 percent are male-owned, with the remaining 17 percent co-owned
by both genders. Interestingly, women lead 61 percent of unlicensed SMEs, highlighting their entrepreneurial spirit despite facing hurdles such as regulatory compliance challenges.
Access to startup capital remains a significant obstacle for women-led SMEs due to stringent collateral requirements
imposed by financial institutions, further compounded by a lack of necessary entrepreneurial skills.
The Kayana Female MSME Awards, formerly known as the D.E.A.R MSME Awards, represent a commitment to fostering a nurturing environment where women entrepreneurs can flourish. With over
1000 nominations received across nine different categories, the awards recognize businesses that have demonstrated excellence in areas such as community impact, environmental sustainability, and the innovative use of technology.
“We are thrilled to honor the outstanding contributions of women entrepreneurs through the 2024 Kayana Female MSME Awards. These awards not only celebrate the accomplishments of individual businesses but also highlight the collective strength and resilience of women in business, driving positive change and innovation across various sectors.” said Patricia Okelo, Founder and CEO of Kayana Create.
Among this year’s nominees are pioneering businesses such as MRX Media Limited, Spectrum Engineering, and Essenpark Limited, each exemplifying excellence in their respective fields. From fostering community cohesion to promoting environmental sustainability, these businesses represent the diverse and impactful work being done by women entrepreneurs in Kenya and beyond.
In addition to recognizing individual achievements, the Kayana Female MSME Awards also highlight the importance of collaboration and partnership in driving business success. Through initiatives such as the Kayana Female MSME Awards, Kayana Create aims to provide women entrepreneurs with the support,
resources, and recognition they need to thrive in today’s competitive business landscape.
The public voting phase for the 2024 Kayana Female MSME Awards is now open, allowing members of the community to show their support for their favorite nominees. Winners will be announced at a gala ceremony scheduled for June 15, 2024, where they will receive recognition for their outstanding contributions to entrepreneurship and economic empowerment.
For more information about the 2024 Kayana Female MSME Awards and to cast your vote, visit Kayana Create’s website. https://www.kayana.org/msme-awards-2024
About Kayana Create:
Kayana Create nurtures an environment where women entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners can thrive. Our mission is grounded in fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment, offering a platform
where dreamers, doers, and visionaries can flourish. Anchored on three core pillars, our dedication to the community is steadfast:
1. Building Community: Within our esteemed “Circle,” women discover a supportive ecosystem rich in camaraderie and shared purpose. With over 300 dedicated members and an extended reach of over 8,000 through our active mailing list, our community serves as a hub of collaboration and mutual upliftment. Our signature events, such as Candid Conversations: Circles
for Women in Business, the Kenya Cottage Industry Expo, and the prestigious Kayana Female MSMEs Awards, bring together over 25,000 women, fostering valuable connections and opportunities.
2. Growing Capacity: Through our comprehensive curriculum, Passport to Business, and a variety
of training programs held throughout the year, we empower entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds with essential skills and knowledge. Yet, our commitment goes beyond education;
we actively facilitate market access, equipping women with the tools necessary to expand their businesses and achieve new heights of success.
3. Creating Collaborations: Kayana Create acts as a vital conduit, forging connections not only within our network of businesses but also with government initiatives, entrepreneurial hubs, and organizations dedicated to fostering business growth. By facilitating partnerships andcollaborations, we magnify the impact of women entrepreneurs, driving innovation and economic empowerment across the region.
A leading retailer supermarket Naivas has opened its newest branch, located in a populous residential area of the very busy Lang’ata Road.
Located at Lang’ata Medlink, a mixed-use development, the branch covers 28,000 square feet of trading space bringing the count of outlets along the road to three, Lang’ata at Freedom Heights and One Stop Foodmarket in One Stop Arcade.
It has a spacious retail floor showcasing a wide array of products and services, and as is our standard, customers will find everything they need in one convenient location.
The branch features dedicated sections for electronics, home goods, clothing in addition to fresh, commodities and fast moving consumer goods not forgetting knowledgeable dedicated staff ready to serve, convenient parking and easy access for shoppers.
“We are excited to expand our presence in Lang’ata since this is an ever-growing area of Nairobi and once we identify a gap and need in a community, we move in a strategic and calculated manner to fill it. This new store is one such undertaking.”
He added, “We have gone on to provide a wholesome shopping experience meeting everyday needs as well as aspirational wants. This was always in the plan and from the word go, we were determined to deliver a store for the Lang’ata resident that truly brings the world class shopping experience to them.” Andrea says.
He adds that, “As a homegrown brand, we have our customer’s interests at heart hence the commitment to not only meet but exceed their needs in every way possible,” said Andrea Von Paleske, Chief of Strategy Naivas.
The Operations boss noted, “This opening comes at a very exciting period and at just the right time to join the Kikapu Kibonge Supaa Safari Campaign. The campaign has seen to it that we have provided reprieve for Kenyans during these very hard economic times through amazing sales promotions, continued to provide a wide selection of choices as well as reward points across all Naivas outlets.” Peter Mukuha said.
He added that, “As we open the doors of Naivas Lang’ata Medlink it becomes our latest stage in our safari, and they get to join in the fun.”
He adds, “Our customers are guaranteed that each time they walk through our doors they can trust us to deliver on our promise; saves you money. Every store opening is also always an opportunity to appreciate the unwavering support from our costumers. This support has ensured that the business has continued to grow from strength and we want reiterate our commitment to exceptional delivery as we continue on our journey beyond100,” remarked Peter Mukuha, Chief of Operations.
The leading retailer, Naivas Supermarket has announced its latest initiative to enhance customer convenience along the ever busy Mombasa Road.
The launch of 24-hour operations in one of its branches along the road as of 22nd April, Naivas Airport View will be open around the clock, 7 days a week catering to the diverse schedules and needs of our valued patrons.
Airport view becomes the 6th 24hour outlet for the retailer with the rest being Naivas Westlands, Development house and Moi Avenue in Nairobi CBD, Mwembe Tayari and Naivas Bamburi in Mombasa.
Naivas leadership has said that it’s committed to providing unparalleled accessibility and service as it recognizes the evolving lifestyles and schedules of the communities they operate in Whether it’s an early morning coffee run, a late- night snack craving, an impromptu shopping need at odd hours or simply prefer night time shopping our doors will always be open to welcome you.
“This new development guarantees uninterrupted shopping as you get to shop at your own convenience be it day or night with our full range of products available at all hours. Freshness of products is guaranteed, and you get to enjoy the freshest produce, bakery items and snacks
whenever you visit, as we continuously restock throughout the day and night. Over and above our product offerings we have a dedicated team who are ready to assist you, answer your questions and ensure your shopping experience is smooth, no matter the hour,” said Peter Mukuha, Chief of Operations.
“At Naivas we understand that life does not always adhere to a 9-to-5 schedule. With our new 24-hour operations we aim to be there for our customers whenever they need us,” said Andreas Von Paleske, Chief of Strategy Naivas.
“Whether it’s grabbing essentials before dawn, satisfying a curiosity through late-night window shopping, or just enjoying the convenience of shopping on your own time, we are here to serve.”
He added, “We invite everyone to experience the ease and flexibility of shopping at our 24-hour branches as we continue to strive towards providing a world class shopping experience to all.”
LSK members ready to address the press at the offices Nairobi.
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has raised corruption concerns surrounding implementation of the National Fertilizer subsidy (NFSP).
National Fertilizer subsidy has recently coke under scrutiny due to reports of substantial Breaches of duty, acts of incompetence , and allegation of fraud and Corruption.
“The NFSP was rolled out in September 2022 to offer subsidised fertilizer at half the price of Commercial fertilizer to support agricultural productivity and stabilize food prices in Kenya. However in recent weeks, several complaints have been raised, indicating systemic severe issues within the Ministry of Agriculture and National cereals and produce Board (NCPB) and highliting an elaborate scheme to defraud farmers through the very program intended to bring them relief.” Said Faith Odhiambo President Law Society of Kenya.
She further observed that, thevpurpose of the NFSP is ostensibly moot. The programme was initiated to increase efficiency and productivity while reducing cost and delays. Farmers have raised concerns over bureaucratic inefficiencies, corruption and unprecedented delays in their attempts to access fertilizer. There are also confirmed instances of fake fertilzer being sold to unsuspecting farmers, greatly jeopardising farmers outputs and incomes.
Further frustrations has resulted from severe delays in the deliverly and distribution of fertilizer by the NCPB. There are reports also, of laste tendering and slow manufacturing process by contracted suppliers. Farmers have also decried the transition from a voucher based system to the distribution of fertilizers through the NCPB leading to inefficiencies in the distribution process.
The overall consequence of these is that, farmers have failed to break even, lost significant sums of money in buying fake fertilizer and the agricultural sector has been spun into a crisis at a time when Kenyans contend with strained economic realities that cannot survive food insecurity.
LSK therefore, Call out the Cabinet Secretary and demand that he takes action to address the unprecedented horror show guise as the National Fertilizer subsidy program and offer reparations to affected farmers. The CS should also implement several recommendations to address the real issues. LSK will petition Parliament to call for the immediate removal of Mr. Mithika Linturi from the office of Cabinet Secretary by dint of Article 152 (6) of the Constitution on the grounds of gross misconduct , violation of the Constitution and incompetence to hold public office. LSK will also, pursue a class action on behalf of farmers to seek compensation against the Cabinet Secretary in charge of the Ministry, NCPB, KEBS and the responsible officials.
Kenyan Slalom Canoe Kayaker Samuel Muturi (Right) celebrates alongside his teammate after being unveiled as the Central Tujiamini Gold Award Winner.
Samuel Muturi, the 29-year-old canoeing Slalom Kayaker currently stretching the boundaries of sports and talent in Kenya, has been unveiled as the Gold Winner central region in the ongoing Tujiamini Initiative powered by SportPesa.
Muturi, who made history when he became the first Kenyan slalom canoe kayaker to reach a semifinal at the 2019 World Championships in La Seu d’Urgell in Spain during his debut, received a Kes 500,000 award in support and recognition of his talent, which he now seeks to take to the next level with a vision to be Kenya’s first-ever Olympic canoe slalom kayaker.
During the unveiling that took place at the Savage Wilderness Whitewater Rafting Centre in Sagana, Kirinyaga County, Muturi’s prowess was evident as he displayed his skills and mastery in the water paddling sport alongside one of his teammates.
“I have participated in several events, including four world championships and three Africa championships, including the Africa Olympic Qualifiers held in Sainte Suzanne, La Reunion, in February. It is not easy, however, for us to train around here because we don’t have a permanent course. While we try our best with what we have, water sports equipment is expensive, and we have no choice but to train with our old gear. Therefore, support like this will help us improve kayaking and canoeing in Kenya,” said Muturi.
As he continues to make waves in the world of water sports, to represent Kenya in the 2028 Olympics, Muturi elaborated on his commitment to attracting young talent and growing the niche sport in the country.
Muturi trains local youngsters around his home in Sagana, hoping to encourage more people to take up water sports and put canoe slalom kayaking on the Kenyan Olympic agenda.
At the 2019 World Championships, Muturi achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Kenyan canoe slalom kayaker to qualify for a semifinal in an international competition. Muturi, who competes in the K1 and C1 categories, including the extreme Slalom discipline, currently works with his coach, Titus Mureithi, and about 20 teammates, domiciled at the Savage Wilderness Whitewater Rafting Centre as his training grounds.
According to Coach Mureithi, the Tujiamini initiative offers a very good platform for talent at all levels, and Samuel’s award resonates perfectly with the intended impact on emerging talents.
Willis Ojwang, the Communication and Advertising Manager, of SportPesa, noted the uniqueness of water rafting and paddling sports such as canoeing and kayaking, which are relatively unknown in Kenya but have huge potential for mopping up talent at the grassroots.
“As a young boy, Muturi Watched rafters float downstream, igniting his passion for water sports. Today, he is a trailblazer who is not only committed to achieving his dream of representing Kenya as the country’s first-ever Olympic canoe slalom kayaker but has also chosen to inspire other young people to take up the sport. That is the true essence of believing in oneself. This is what Tujiamini Initiative is all about,” he said.
Muturi’s unveiling follows that of four other 80 winners in the silver and bronze categories, respectively, over the weekend during the conclusion of the Tujiamini Cheza Dimba Tournament in Kirinyaga.
The Tujiamini Initiative, which aims to provide a showcase platform for both individual and community grassroots sports and related talents, now moves to the Eastern region, covering 11 counties where other Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Tujiamini Cheza Dimba
Winners will be announced in one month.
