The 21st edition of the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon has received over KES 173 million in support from sponsors ahead of the race, which is set for October 27, 2024, at Uhuru Gardens.This substantial support, comprising both cash and in-kind contributions, promises to enhance the experience for participants and further empower community initiatives. Since its inception, the event has attracted over 300,000 runners, cementing its status as one of the region’s premier athletic events.
“We are excited to collaborate with our sponsors to promote community engagement, boost local economic growth and empower youth through the FutureMakers initiative by Standard Chartered. Proceeds from the marathon help young people—especially women and persons with disabilities—learn, earn, and grow,” said Peter Gitau, Chair of the local organizing committee, Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon.
The marathon has attracted more than 40 sponsors and partners, an increase from 30 sponsprs in 2023, reflecting a collective commitment to transforming lives, nurturing talent, and fostering sports globally.Standard Chartered has made a significant contribution of KES 100 million towards the event.
Prudential Insurance has contributed KES 10 million as the official sponsor for the 5KM Family Fun Run in cash and in-kind support, playing a crucial role in ensuring comprehensive insurance coverage for all participants.”By partnering with the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon, we reinforce our commitment to initiatives that positively impact communities. Our goal is not only to support emerging and elite athletes in launching their international careers but also to inspire families to embrace a culture of fitness and well-being,” said Gwen Kinisu, CEO, Prudential.
Stanchart Marathon aims to promote Diversity and Inclusion within and beyond the event. It is the only marathon in the country that has a special category for persons with disability(PWDs).
Most Kisii residents want President William Ruto and his estranged deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, to put their act together or ship out together.
They singled out for censure the bill being floated to impeach Gachagua against the pressing concerns the country was facing at the moment.
They told Ruto to reconcile with Gachagua and begin to focus more firmly on how to move the country forward.
“We elected them together and should pack and leave together. It that is what they are up to,” said George Magange, an activist.
He said if parliament was serious on its intent then it should impeach both Ruto and his deputy.
More others that had turned up at the Agricultural Training College for the public participation exercise termed flimsy and weak the grounds being presented as evidence to impeach the embattled Gachagua.
They told the duo to work together and stop the drama.
“ Let them work together for now, we are only two years shy of the main polls, the President can pick another running mate in 2027” added Magange.
Thomas Keraka and Benjamin Atemba, described as of ‘low material value’ all the grounds being fronted as evidence to indict Gachagua.
“From any standpoint, the grounds lack substance and are weak,” stated said. Keraka
They accused the Kenyan Kwanza government of losing its focus and directing all its primitive energy on non-issues.
They’re called on their MPs to vote No to the bill.
Wilfred Monyenye, Kisii Township Ward Rep said the health and the education sector were in a mess and challenged the Head of State to rise to the challenge.
He said the university funding model, the Social Health Insurance Fund ( SHIF) was dysfunctional, stressing, that they are more important than the impeachment of Gachagua.
“ Our people cannot access health care services since their National Hospital Insurance Fund ( NHIF) Cards are not being recognized after the shift to the new Fund,” Monyenye told the press.
Only Darius Mosoti, a youth leader, supported the impeachment claiming Gachagua in his tenure revived the spirit of tribalism in the country.
Gachagua is facing abuse of office charges and violation of the law as the impeachment threatens to end his political career.
Have you had your HIV test this year yet? If not, take time this week to get tested. Regular testing for STIs is also crucial. Consider discussing STI testing with your partner(s) before engaging in sexual activity to ensure transparency and safety.
Open and honest communication with your partner(s) about sexual health, STI status, and birth control options is vital for fostering a healthy sexual relationship. Additionally, getting vaccinated against STIs, such as HPV, hepatitis B, and herpes, is recommended by healthcare providers and can provide important protection.
Sexual health encompasses not only physical well-being but also emotional, mental, and social wellness concerning sexuality. It is far more than just the absence of disease or dysfunction. Many people suffer when they lack bodily autonomy, control over their reproductive choices, or the freedom to experience safe and consensual sexual relationships. Access to contraception and the necessary information to make informed decisions about sexual health is an essential aspect of achieving overall sexual well-being.
In Kenya, the percentage of married women using modern contraceptives has steadily increased over time, from 32% in 2003 to 57% in 2022. Over the same period, the unmet need for family planning declined from 27% to 14% (KDHS 2022).
Contraceptive uptake is measured using the Modern Contraceptive Prevalence Rate (mCPR), which is the percentage of WRA who are using, or whose partners are using modern contraceptives. The country aims to achieve 64% mCPR by 2030.
While remarkable strides have been made in providing access to safe contraception methods, there remains a significant gap in empowering the population with the necessary information to enable individuals to make informed decisions about sexual activity.
In a September 4 press release marking World Sexual Health Day, Marie Stopes Kenya (MSK) identified the lack of Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) as a critical issue that continues to leave many young people vulnerable. MSK emphasized the pressing challenges faced in Kenya, particularly the absence of comprehensive sexuality education for adolescents and young people.
“This education gap has resulted in high rates of unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among adolescents,” read the statement. In light of these challenges, MSK has called on the Kenyan government to prioritize the funding of reproductive health, particularly family planning, stressing that this is not only a health concern but also a matter of human rights and social justice.
“Investing in sexual and reproductive health is essential for empowering individuals to make informed choices about their health and their futures,” MSK. The organization highlighted the societal benefits of ensuring access to family planning services, explaining that it can contribute significantly to the well-being of the broader community.
Furthermore, MSK is urging for the adoption of an inclusive approach to advancing Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). This approach is captured in the Family Reproductive Healthcare Bill of 2023 and seeks to address all aspects of sexual and reproductive health to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to achieve the highest possible standard of sexual well-being. Sexual health, the organization added, is fundamental to achieving overall health, gender equality, and social and economic development.
MSK stressed the importance of recognizing, respecting, and protecting sexual health for all. By working together, it believes that a society can be built where every individual can reach the best possible standard of sexual and reproductive health and well-being.
In line with safeguarding sexual health which includes reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies, here is some practical advice on maintaining your sexual well-being.
You can adopt several key practices that prioritize your sexual health and well-being while also protecting your partner. First and foremost, it is essential to use condoms consistently and correctly every time you engage in sexual activity, whether it be oral, anal, or vaginal sex.
Using water-based lubricants during sex can help reduce the risk of condom breakage and enhance pleasure. It is also advisable to avoid sharing sex toys. If sharing is unavoidable, use condoms on the toys and ensure they are cleaned thoroughly before and after use. Limiting the number of sexual partners and being aware of their sexual history and practices can further minimize risk.
Moreover, it is important to avoid alcohol and drug use before and during sexual activity, as these substances can impair judgment and lead to risky behaviors. Practicing self-care by getting enough sleep, maintaining a healthy diet, and managing stress can also contribute positively to sexual health and overall well-being. Finally, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly if you experience any STI symptoms or have had unprotected sex with a partner whose STI status is unknown.
By adhering to these practices, you can maintain and protect your sexual health, contribute to your overall well-being, and ensure a safer, healthier society for all.
Public participation nationwide exercise across all 290 constituencies where Kenyans were given a platform to voice their opinions on the high-stakes impeachment which was initiated by Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse.
The process has been conducted at designated centers in the 47 counties countrywide.
Previously, a last-minute legal challenge filed in court aiming to halt the proceedings was dismissed on Wednesday, clearing the path for public consultations.
Public Participation at Bomas ended amid Controversies where blows and kicks were witnessed especially when Morara Kebaso was guaranteed his entry to the social hall to air his views.
Public participation at Bomas in Nairobi officially concluded at around mid-day, with hundreds turning up to voice their opinions on Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment.
Members of parliament and MCAs who sought anonymity raised concerns about the abrupt dismissal of the exercise at the Bomas of Kenya where there have been critics questioning whether Parliament upheld the standard for genuine, meaningful public participation.
Clashes Break Out in Bomas as Participation Turns Violent as tensions flared as public participation at Bomas spiraled into disorder. Supporters and detractors of both parties clashed violently, chanting rival slogans of “Ruto must go” and “Gachagua must go.”
Punches and kicks were thrown, chairs were hurled at each other, and confusion reigned as the two sides descended into a brawl.
Kebaso Morara, the lawyer turned activist was at the center of the chaos with goons attacking the political figurehead who is quickly gaining popularity.
The chaos erupted after activist lawyer Morara Kebaso arrived with a group of youths, prompting a section of attendees to react violently.
Security personnel had to swiftly intervene, ejecting Morara and restoring a fragile order. The exercise continued, though the atmosphere remained volatile.
Later after the adjournment of the exercise, the Morara Kebaso contingent returned to Bomas of Kenya which forced several MPs to free the area and end the exercise within the planned schedule.
MPs led by Tom Kajwang, TJ, and Dagoreti South Mp John Kiarie, KJ were seen fleeing the area and sneaking out of the area securing their safety from the rowdy crowd.
Participants expressed their views saying, ‘’ If Gachagua is to go, let William Ruto also go.’’
They added their frustrations saying it was an exercise of time wasting for ending the exercise prematurely.
Charles Omondi said. ‘’What was the essence of this exercise if you decided to waste our time and adjourn the planned national event to chaos, I’m saddened with the whole plans of today, it’s a sad day for this country.’’
In Nakuru, chaos erupted during the public participation exercise as residents took to the streets, rejecting the process, and calling it fraudulent.
Chanting “No Gachagua, no Ruto,” the protestors disrupted the ASK showgrounds participation event, accusing organizers of distributing fake documents.
The exercise was abruptly halted as police officers on-site fled the scene.
In other areas, Nyahururu residents blocked a major highway in protest of the impeachment process, lighting bonfires and barricading roads leading to Nyeri town. “No Rigathi, no Ruto,” echoed through the streets as protestors expressed their unwavering support for Gachagua. The residents accused the National Assembly of attempting to destabilize the region’s political leadership. Although police officers intervened to clear the roads, the defiant residents vowed to continue their demonstrations, demanding the public participation exercise be halted.
In Machakos, Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua took a bold stance in Machakos, leading the public participation against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua with the rallying cry, “Gachagua must go!”
Mutua a sharp critique of the current leadership to Gachagua “We are not happy. Since President William Ruto took office, Ukambani has been left behind. All development has been tied to shareholder politics,” Mutua declared.
Senator Hezena Lemaletian (Nominated) has raised concerns about the transparency and public participation surrounding the ongoing mining activities in Samburu County. Speaking in the Senate, she questioned whether due public consultations were conducted before the mining operations commenced.
While requesting a statement from the Standing Committee on Land, Environment and Natural Resources, the legislator requested the Sen John Methu-led Committee to inquire and report to the House all local and foreign entities engaged in the mining operations in Samburu County.
She also tasked the Lands Committee to confirm whether these entities are licensed and compliant with the Mining (Strategic Mineral) Regulations of 2017 and assess the benefits accruing to the local community from these mining activities.
The Committee will subsequently establish whether individuals whose land is being utilized for mining purposes have been compensated.
In another Statement Request, Sen Lemaletian called on the Senate Committee on Roads, Transportation, and Housing to look into the dilapidated state of roads and the distribution of budget allocations towards road projects in Samburu County.
In a separate statement request, Sen. Lemaletian also highlighted concerns about the deteriorating state of roads in Samburu County. She called on the Senate Committee on Roads, Transportation, and Housing, chaired by Sen. Karungo Thang’wa, to address the condition of roads and the allocation of budgetary funds for road projects in the county.
“They also need to disclose how the budget has been distributed among various road projects with details of the specific allocations for different road segments and specify how much has been utilized so far on new road construction projects and for maintenance of existing ones,” she requested.
The Nominated Senator asked the committee to provide a comprehensive report on the status of all roads within Samburu County under the jurisdiction of the county government. She requested a detailed explanation of the challenges that have led to the poor state of certain roads and urged the committee to disclose the total budgetary allocations for road construction, repair, and maintenance in the 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 Financial Years. Furthermore, she asked for a breakdown of how these funds have been distributed across different road projects and how much has been utilized so far.
Sen. Lemaletian also called on the committee to outline the Samburu County Government’s plans for maintaining deteriorating roads, with specific details on the frequency of inspections and the criteria used to prioritize repairs. Finally, she emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in the use of funds earmarked for road projects to ensure effective utilization of public resources.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has urged all leaders elected during the 2022 General Election to embark on serving Kenyans.
Speaking at Uhuru Gardens during the Mashujaa Day celebrations, DP Gachagua said there is no more time to waste since Kenyans are suffering.
“I also wish to congratulate all the elected leaders in the just concluded elections and remind them that it is time to deliver; we cannot afford to waste a single minute. We know Kenyans are suffering. No more talk. It is work. Tuchape Kazi sawasawa,” the Deputy President said.
“Irrespective of our political differences, it is time to work and deliver. We are all Kenyans. This is our nation, we are rising together.”
The second-in-command further assured his boss President William Ruto of his support in realizing Kenya Kwanza’s plan of making Kenya a great nation where “everyone matters, and every hustle matters.” “I want to assure you of my unprecedented support as your deputy, round the clock in delivering to the people of the Republic of Kenya,” he said.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua also added that the current challenges are a concern for all Kenyans “The challenges that we face as a nation ranging from social to economic, belong to all of us, and we should all contribute towards facing them.”
Finally, DP Rigathi Gachagua pleads with Kenyans to work hard to deliver “I want to congratulate all the elected leaders here & remind them that it is time to deliver. No more talk. It is now time to work.”
The Mashujaa day fete is the first National celebration that President Ruto and DP Gachagua are officiating since taking the oath of office on September 13.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) now says the visually impaired voters will not have the option of doing so independently as the ballot papers will not be printed in braille.
IEBC chairman, Wafula Chebukati, stated on Saturday, July 17, that the visually impaired will be assisted by trained Commission personnel who will be located in every polling station across the country during the General Election. “In this coming election, we are not going to have braille material in the form of ballot papers. As a Commission, we have moved a step ahead, we have voter education material in braille,” Chebukati stated.
IEBC Chairman Wafula Chebukati in a past event PHOTO FILE
In previous elections, visually impaired persons were allowed to vote via an assistant who was obligated to take an oath of secrecy before the exercise. In the upcoming August polls, only presiding officers will be allowed to assist them in the exercise. These officers are trained in such a way that they will keep their votes secret.
IEBC chairperson Wafula Chebukati says the Commission has not added features on ballot papers for use by the blind voters in the upcoming elections, noting that blind voters will need the assistance of IEBC authorized and trained personnel who will help them in the process.
Chebukati said the budget allocated to the Commission could not allow them to factor in all the requirements for people living with disabilities.
However, the agent will stand behind to listen in to what the presiding officer will ask the voter for instance, which candidate to choose. The IEBC chairman noted that the Commission had made efforts to make the polls inclusive for disabled persons but the braille ballot papers would not be available because they were not budgeted for.
The IEBC chairman promised to introduce the braille ballot papers in future elections, saying that budget for the visually impaired will be factored in moving forward. “We would like to introduce braille ballot papers in future elections, but we did not have a budget for this time. We shall factor it in our budget and future elections” Chebukati added.
Voters lining up to exercise Voting Process as per the IEBC guidelines in a polling station PHOTO FILE
According to the World Health Organization fact sheet of 2021, out of the 39 million people living with blindness in the world, 224,000 are Kenyans. The leading cause is uncorrected refractive errors and cataracts. The report further revealed that 750,000 other Kenyans from the 39 million globally are suffering from severe vision impairment.
The need to provide and support the visually impaired in the upcoming August polls have put IEBC on the spot after a candidate, Simeon Pikyech, last year told the IEBC selection panel that Commission should cater for ballot papers for the visually impaired.
Sicily K. Kariuki (Mrs), Egh, Cabinet Secretary, For Water, Sanitation And Irrigation addressing media Photo: Bogonko Nyokang’i
The Ministry’s core mandate is to implement the constitutional requirement on article 43(b), (c), and (d) on right to reasonable standards of sanitation, freedom from hunger, and to have adequate food of acceptable quality, and to clean safe water in adequate quantities.
The National Water coverage has increased from 53.3% in 2013 (27.7 Million People) to the current coverage of about 70% serving 34.8 Million people. This indicates that 12m additional people have access to clean water. Sewerage coverage has increased from 22.1% to 29% in urban areas. The Ministry plans to
increase the coverage to 80% and 40% respectively by 2022 including improving access to food security. The sector aims to achieve 100% water coverage both in urban and rural areas, 40% for urban sewerage 60% for the non-sewered system for urban sanitation, and 100% for rural sanitation by 2030.
To achieve the three basic human rights, the Ministry has embarked on the implementation of many Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation projects across the Country. The Ministry had a portfolio of 685 Projects by June 2020 spread across the country of which 113 number were completed by December 2021 through the 3 rd and 4 th wave RRI. The current portfolio is estimated at approximately 650 ongoing projects as of December 2021.
In the past, the completion rate of projects has been very low as projects take long to be completed leading to cost overruns and frustration by the people the projects are expected to serve.
Examples of projects the Ministry has completed include: – Dongo Kundu Water Supply Project (Phase I), Naivasha Industrial Park, Mavoko Water Supply and connected health Centres to Water supply, Nyamira, Kisii Vihiga Cluster, Homa Bay Cluster, Narok Sewerage, Carissa Sewerage, Wamba Water Project and more across the country. These projects are in support of the manufacturing and health pillars in the BIG FOUR AGENDA.
Three (3) Peace dams and water harvesting projects have been completed including the Nakuetum, Forolle Mega Peace Dam, Yamo Dam, and Wamba. The Ministry has fast-tracked the implementation of key flagship projects; Thwake Dam (64%), Karimenu Dam (76%), Galana Kulalu (74%), Thiba (84%), Bura Irrigation Project (45%), Lower Nzoia Irrigation Project (50%), Chemususu Water Supply (93%), and Northern Collector (99%).
In addition, we have fast-tracked the processing of new projects that include Mwache Dam in Kwale County, Ruiru II Dam, Kericho and Kisii Waste Water Management, Kisumu Sanitation Project, Nakuru Biodiversity project, Bute Dam in Wajir, Kamumu dam in Embu among others. The projects will lead to the progressive realization of the human right to water and sanitation.
The Rapid Result Initiative being a result based process aimed at fast-tracking implementation of the Ministry’s priority programs has been successfully adopted by the Ministry to achieve results both in increasing the Project Completion Rate, gaining value for money on investments, and ensuring quality in
completed works.
The 3rd Wave RRI ran between 19 to February 2021 up to 30th May 2021. This wave brought 44 projects (31 water and 13 irrigation projects) to completion increasing 1.5M persons with access to safe drinking water and a total of 4,870Acres of land being brought under irrigation.
The 4th wave ran between 22 and August up to 30th November 2021 and resulted in 19 Projects being completed an area of 6,210 acres brought under irrigation and additional 170,160 people gaining access to safe drinking water.
The 5th Wave running between 1st February up to 12th May 2022 intends to bring an increase of area under irrigation by 8,257 acres serving 6,880 households by completing 69 projects. A total of 3,317,297 persons are planned to access safe drinking water during this 5th Wave RRI.
There are 63 projects to be commissioned and handed over under this wave to benefit 2,730,265 persons to access safe drinking water and an area of 36,495 acres will be put under irrigation benefitting 44,300 Households.
WATER SECTOR REFORMS
The National Water Policy was approved by National Assembly on 14th October 2021 as Sessional Paper No. 1 of 2021. This policy will guide the Sector in ensuring good governance, and acceleration of access to water supply and sanitation services to progressively realize universal access while also ensuring gender mainstreaming, climate change, and education in the sector are achieved.
The Water Sector regulations: Water Services Regulations, Water Resources regulations, and Water Harvesting and Storage Regulations have also been officially gazetted. This will ensure that the sector is well regulated and both the water resources and services are sustainable and affordable. The Irrigation General Regulations have been developed and will ensure that the sector is well-coordinated, quality is assured, resources are mobilized and the irrigation sector is stable.
The Sector Strategies: Water Services Strategy, Water Resources Strategy, and Water Harvesting and Storage Strategy have further been developed to guide development in the sector for the next 5 years. The Irrigation Strategy is at an advanced stage which will enhance the planning of the irrigation subsector,
whereas the Irrigation Guidelines have been developed and are accessible from the Ministry’s website
These are further supported by the newly signed Sector Financing and Investment Framework (NAWASIP) which embraces the spirit of collaboration and consultation between the two levels of government, and further puts responsibility and commitments on each level of government on coordinated financing in the Sector.
Finally, the CS stated that she is happy that NAWASIP will realize the establishment of a Conditional Grant
that will ensure sustainable financing of the Water Sector. The Ministry is fast-tracking the finalization of the KEWI Act, Water Act 2016 miscellaneous amendments bill, and Sanitation Management Policy.
UDA allied MPs at DPWiliam Ruto‘s Residence in Karen (Photo Courtesy)
Members of parliament allied to deputy president William Ruto on January 25, 2022, managed to shoot down a motion at the national assembly seeking to reconstitute the house business committee.
Their move is going to disrupt the house business for six months until the names of the new members in the committee will be tabled for debate.
“There cannot be any business because there has to be a House Business Committee to process anything for the House” Speaker Justin Muturi ruled.
However, what many do not recognize is that majority of MPs allied to Azimio la Umoja were not in the house, thus creating room for DP Ruto’s foot soldiers to chest thump.
Members of parliament drawn from the Luhya community today met President Uhuru Kenyatta at the statehouse. Most of the leaders have in the past sided with the handshake wing of President Kenyatta and ODM’s Raila Odinga. As such their votes were not counted in the motion.
Also, the leadership of the ODM party at parliament was out in the field drumming up support for Odinga who is set to square it out with DP Ruto through Azimio la Umoja alliance.
Junet Mohamed, an ardent ODM defender, was attending a function where the Mount Kenya Foundation was meeting with Maasai leaders.
His counterpart John Mbadi, the minority leader at the national assembly, was weeks ago suspended from five sittings of the house after punching Sigowet/Soin MP Kipsengeret Koros in the face.
Immediate former Member of Parliament for Teso South Constituency Mary Emase
Immediate former Member of Parliament for Teso South Constituency Mary Emase Otuch has refuted claims that she will contest for the Woman representative post during the forthcoming General elections.
Speaking to the press in Busia town, Emase said she will vie for the post of Member of Parliament to complete the stalled projects that she began in 2013.
“As a mature politician, I will leave the post to new female entrants,” she said, explaining that the post was created through affirmative action to increase the number of female representation in parliament.
She further stated that she will work closely with development-conscious leaders from both the County and National governments to mobilize resources for the development of the constituency.
“If we do not work together, we will rely on Constituency Development Fund only and this cannot meet the demands of the residents,” she said.
She added that they are ready to battle for the post and she is well planned ”Wakae wakijua Niko kwa Debe, MP TESO SOUTH 2022. Wapunguze Uoga na Wasitie Baridi. Wasituuzie Uoga ya Kura Kuibiwa. TUMEJIPANGA na HATUPANGWINGWI.”
The former lawmaker who is affiliated with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Party said that the party leadership has come up with a blueprint for development projects in all the seven Sub Counties of Busia.
Emaase at the same time urged those who applied for National Identity Cards to collect them from the relevant offices in readiness for the forthcoming elections. “This time around we will make sure that all the ballot boxes are protected,’’ she said, adding that no voter bribery will take place during the August 22 General elections.
Both the current Teso South MP Geoffrey Omuse and Governor Sospeter Ojaamong has also expressed interest in the same post.
Emaase served as the area MP for one term before she lost to Omuse.
