ISSUE 077, February 16-28, 2013 Unfiltered, uninhibited…just the gruesome truth 1

February 16-28, 2013 ISSUE 077

A bimonthly newspaper by the Media Diversity Centre, a project of African Woman and Child Feature Service

INSIDE: Comprehensive profiles of 15 women candidates pages 6-13

Guard your tongue The smallest body part key to peaceful elections

By ROBERT WANJALA he wanted strong biceps and tame the tongue. It’s unruly evil, when the same was asked of the full of deadly poison…” (Bible Women peace actors have woman, she answered God that James 3:5-8). pledged to drive the peace agen- she wanted a powerful tongue.” The tongue, participants da ahead of the March 4 General This loosely translatedresolved, was critical for devel- Election. Speaking during a me- means that women have their opment and should be fronted dia and grassroots women fo- power bestowed to the tongue by women who are the greatest rum in Eldoret, women shared which they can use to build victims in case of violence. their real experiences in pursu- peace and mitigate conflict. “Women and children are ing community cohesion and The tongue illustration set the most vulnerable groups integration. the discussion a notch higher whenever there is a conflict or According to Beatrice allowing women to share freely violence. Since we are always the Kimani, a women’s leader from how they could use it to build victims let us play the leading Burnt Forest, women have a role and preach peace ahead of the role, use our tongue to cham- to play in conflict mitigation polls next month. pion for peace and integration and peace building. Biblically, the tongue is de- during and after the general Kimani moved the partici- scribed as… “A little member election,” reiterated Kimani. pants by recounting how some and boasts great things. See how Kimani was addressing women have averted possible a great forest a little fire kindles. the forum organised by Africa violence and conflict by using …the tongue is a fire, a world Woman and Child Feature Ser- the power of their tongue. of iniquity. The tongue is so vices under the Peace Initiative From Top: A building depicting the growth in business in Uasin Gishu County. Ann Using an adage depicting set among our members that it Kenya (PIK) project. The proj- Kandie next to her herd of sheep. Uasin Gishu County governor aspirant Vesca women as just powerful as men, defiles the whole body and sets ect is encouraging a non-violent Kangogo sitting next a PEV victim in Yamumbi IDP camp. Esther Chelula in her Kimani said: “When God asked on fire the course of nature…. electioneering period and end eatery joint. She hopes the upcoming election will be free from violence. man what he wanted, man said but no man (human being) can Continued on page 5 Pictures: Robert Wanjala Read more Reject stories online at www.mdcafrica.org 2 Unfiltered, uninhibited…just the gruesome truth ISSUE 077, February 16-28, 2013 Reject writer emerges top at Tupange Awards By Mercy Mumo

ISSUE 073 November 16-30, 2012 Diana Wanyonyi emerged top at the National Malnutrition Unfiltered, uninhibited…just the gruesome truth Council of Population and Development – Tu- 11 pange Awards, a Media Awards competition held linked to high earlier in the month at Baobab Beach Resort in infant mortality Mombasa. in Coast region

By DiANA WAN yoNyi “I was feted the best after my feature story en- For Hadija Ponda, the passed decade has seen and rears goats and grows maize her visit the maternity ward six times for reasons from his three-acre farm. beyond her control. “I rely mostly on traditional titled Utapia mlo yachangia maafa ya watoto chi- At 24 years, Ponda is a young mother of six weather forecast, a swarm of butter who lives in a drought prone area in Ganze dis- flies in the sky symbolises rainfall,”- trict in the North Coast. said Marua. Her haggard looks deceive before you get to According to Kenya Demo- ni ya miaka mitano mkoani Pwani Under Family know her better because of the struggles she has graphic and Health survey 2008/09 been forced undergo at the prime of her youth. statistics, 71 out of 1,000 live births Dressed in tattered flowered colourful dress, die before the age of one. In Coast Ponda’s malnourished body is quite a sight pic- Province 87, infants under the age Planning category 2012 was aired in Baraka FM ture that makes her look much older than her of five per 1,000 die, an indicator age. which is almost equal to the nation- She has strapped on her back her three- al rate of 84. news in July last year,” she noted. month old malnourished baby whom she is Edward Mwambire a villager A baby getting weighed at a dispensary in m taking to a dispensary some eight kilometres blames tradition saying that it has away from her village home in Vitengeni., Ma- contributed to the deaths of the ombasa county. damani dispensary run and managed by infants because some men bar their wives from from malnutrition and stuntedm growth.ost infants Picture in the region suffer In November last year, the same feature was Government. visiting health facilities. Hospital. She has been forced by circumstances the “Tradition still plays a major role in this area to use her baby’s nutrient flour for her family : Diana Wanyonyi Supplements as most households prefer to seek the services meals due to the increased famine and pove officer in Madamani dispensary, says that 50 She says she has been frequenting the facil- of the witchdoctors, when they are sick, and that has hit the area. per cent of the 3,000 infants attending the facili- published in issue 073 of the Reject newspaper, rty ty in a year are under-weight, a problem blamed ity for her baby to be weighed and supplemented traditional birth attendants to take care of preg- But the District Public Health Nurse in with two Kilogrammes of flour rich in nutrient a nant mothers. The saddest part is that after the Kinango Jacob Ngala blames taboos i on poor nutrition and lack of a balanced diet. blend of soya and corn. mother has delivered, the baby is not allowed to women by their spouses. nflicted in Last October, the Ministry of Public a bi-monthly online publication of the Media Ponda is not happy when she recalls how she breastfeed until some traditional rituals are per Most pregnant mothers are escorted by their Health and Sanitation opened two community lost her first-born in 2010 when she was barely formed such as cleansing of the breast milk,” Says spouses to give birth through traditional birth at- units that comprise of 100 trained community one month old due to malnutrition and diar Mwambire. - tendants or herbalist while others aid their wives health workers to be used to educate the vil- rhoea. to give birth without knowing the disadvantages lagers on the importance of a ba Diversity Centre entitled “Malnutrition linked Her second born did not do any better as she- Preference of it. and sanitation. lanced diet stillbirth late last year. On her part, Serah Kiwanda, a traditional Since late last year, he says, they started Provincial nutritionist in the Ministry of “Due to the climate of this area we h birth attendant (TBA) for 17 years says many ex- a programme where they engage in dialogue Public Health and sanitation Rachael Kahindi received any meaningful rainfall for the last pectant mothers rely on her services because it is with the men urging them to be confirmed that many families in Kinango and to high infant mortality in Coast region.” ave not Ganze are victims of malnutrition caused by lack three years, a problem that has robbed us food. cheap compared to the health facilities. custodians. traditional We mostly depend on our traditional foods such “Many expectant mothers are not able to In the process, they have been able to edu- of a balanced diet. as cassava, sorghum and cowpeas for survival. meet hospital expenses. Another challenge is cate them on the need of permitting their wives “According to the reports that we have gat to seek medical attention in health facilities and ered from several hospitals in the region The story focused on the statistics from My two children died due to poor dietary intake some of the medical facilities are very far f h- and my husband was unable to provide sufficient them. My charges are very low and sometimes how to keep off taboos and traditional belief.” have found out that 20 per cent of infants un- rom , we meals,” she says. I am forced to provide my services for f der the age of five suffer from malnutrition and recalls. more than 40 per cent of the infants suffer from On his part, Hamisi Marua, is a farm ree,” she Stunted growth Kinango and Ganze districts which according Even in neighbouring Kinango, a similar sto- The latest statistics at the Kinango District stunted growth. We have more than 800 com- er who ry is told by Fatuma Nyanje at Kinango District hospital reveals that 36 infants died last year munity health units in the Coast region with of 518 live births. more than 300 health workers that are provid- out Youth to embrace tenders On her part, Gideon Nyaringita, a nursing ing basic education to villages on the need of to Kenya Demographic and Health survey having a balanced diet and nutrition through community strategy,” she noted. By Bo NiFAce mULU Recyclers eye the mobile phone waste bounty 2008 / 09 statistics, 71 out of 1000 live births The Public Procurement Director, Regina Kanyi, has said that there are so many youths in Kenya who are alr By DA the business. She said that winning a tender depends on viD NJAGi what type of tender the one is applying for. eady in After causing a financial stir in the local bility at the company. What could be recycled locally would die before the age of one. are very clear. There are some conditions to win the tender.” scrap metal market, the Far East appears to emerging market for cell phones, although “The tenders “You must meet the technical part of it. You c be eyeing Africa’s electronic waste, and Ke- be shipped out of the country to other p ners to be disposed off in an environmen- officials confirmed that the damaged prod- win it if you do not qualify for it,” she said. Th nya is now being targeted Scramble for what art- ucts are ferried back to Sweden. was speaking to youths from the Kitui County dur annot is now internationally referred to as ‘urban tally friendly way. Experts however point out that aircraft In Coast 87, infants under the age of five Finance Ministry’s official launch of the Youthe director A mining’, or scavenging for precio According to a 2009 United Nations and ship-building firms consume most of ing the Environmental Programme (UNEP), elec- Government Procurement Opportunities Programm such as iridium and gold is alreadyus causingmetals, the world metals in supply, although space (YAGPOP) at the Kitui Multi-purpose D ccess to a stink among the two leading de tronic waste in Kenya accounts for 17,000 tonnes, out of which 150 tonnes is made up and nuclear science too are reportedly eat- per 1,000 die an indicator, which is almost Training Institute. e Japan and China, as their traditionalstinations, source ing into the world’s metal deposits. The Kitui County Commissioner evelopment markets continue continues to shrink. of disposed mobile phones. Europe too appears to be growing claim- represented as the chief guest by the Kitui, Moffat District Kanyi Officer was Local dealers have not missed this One, Emmanuel Mwachiro. The Public Procurement emerging market, and some like mobile ing its turf with China increasing also appe- Prices Studies of the current world prices for equal to the national rate of 84. Infant mor- rector said that when they talk of the 10 per cent procure- phone service provider, Safaricom, are tite for electronic waste as the world metal prices skyrocket. some of the precious metals revealed that ment, they talk of KSh50 billion. The finance minis Di- reaching out with an electronic waste- they have in the past few years been on official said that the un-experienced can apply for tenders recycling programme. rise, with gold scoring as one of the most that have no technical requirements. try’s Shortage the tality rate which is higher than the national It is emerging that damaged cell phones demanded, yet undersupplied metal. She disclosed that they have invited several firms to Directive Another study conducted by a Japanese support the youths in the country as their (the financ This follows the recent mobile phone are artificial deposits for precious metals such as gold, silver, copper, iridium, indium and based recycling firm, Yokohama Metal Co ministry) partners. Ecobank is one the firms switch off directive by the Government, Ltd, reveals that a tonne of ore from a gold- “The support includes funding some youth projects ine which rendered hundreds of handsets dys- a host of other metals that are reportedly in rate of 59. . short supply at the world market. mine produces just five grams (about 0.18 the country. “We have also the Youth Enterprise functional and subscribers frustrated. ounce) of gold, while a tonne of discarded ment Fund in the country for the benefit of the youths,” Safaricom is cleaning the environment Cell phone vendors say that that type Develop- of investment remains highly untapped, mobile phones can yield 150 grams (about Kanyi said. of the gadgets through a new initiative 5.3 ounces) or more. The story was feted as a well researched, The District Officer One read the County Commis- which provides disposal bins for waste such as most damaged mobile phones end up The same volume of discarded mobile sioner’s speech. Kanyi said that in their office ther as old phones, chargers, batteries, toys, lap- in popular waste dumping sites such as the Dandora landfill in Nairobi’s East side. phones, says the study, also contains around some service categories that have already been r tops and music players. 100 Kg. (about 220 lb) of copper and 3 Kg by the government for the youths. e are “The project will dis-assemble the gad- Safaricom chief executive officer Bob balanced and comprehensive feature of the Collymore confirmed that the Nokia (about 6.6 lb) of silver, among other eserved gets and use what can be recycled locally to vendors are engaged in mobile phone waste Although the push for electronic metals. waste make plastic chairs and poles,” says Sanda brand recycling by environmentalists was at Ojiambo, the head of corporate responsi- recycling. But the country office for the Erickson met with a lot of protest by corporate orga first- year. nizations, it is now emerging that this type Company could not comment about the of investment could attract lots of potential “I appreciate AWC staff for supporting from both the low and high-end markets. me endlessly for their productive workshops that have enabled me to cover unique stories and for publishing my features. Barikiweni sana,” said Diana. Diana Wanyonyi holding her trophy after She also acknowledged the Kenya Media Pro- emerging top at Tupange Awards. Inset: gramme (KMP) for giving her the travel grant a copy of the page with her story. that supported her in covering the health feature Picture: Diana Wanyonyi last year. Fear of landslides Street gang poses threat looms in Nyeri County to security in Nakuru

By ALLAN MURIMI land. By JOHN MAINA area said that the IDs had been collected at The company was told to talk to the villagers the field, a clear indication that the area is The provincial administration wants residents and compensate them in the operation that will Nakuru town has of late seen an increased not a safe place once darkness sets in.” living on the edge of a cliff in Nyeri County to re- be supervised by the central region geologist, number of street families and especially the People operating business along the locate saying the area is too dangerous and could NEMA and provincial administration. boys. This has left women in the town to be area and those living close by said they had be prone to landslides. The company approached the farmers and fearful of their security. complained to the security department Mukurweini District Commissioner Isaac told them that it would compensate them with The most affected are those using the severally. However, Nakuru police boss Masinde said the residents are risking their lives KSh50,000 for the pieces of land arguing that it semi-fenced land surrounding the perim- Bernard Kioko said he was not aware of by living close to the cliff that came about after a had not encroached on a big portion. The farm- eter wall of Afraha Stadium which has now such incidences. construction company excavated murram from a ers, however, refused to take the offer and asked turned to be a haven of rapists, muggers and quarry. the company to buy them a piece of land else- other sort of crimes. Light “We want the people to be safe because it is where so that they could relocate. The provincial In the past month alone, at least three “We have complained to the security de- very dangerous especially for those living on top administration said it could not interfere in the women, one of them a school girl have been partment about the crimes and insecurity of the cliff and they must move elsewhere,” ad- matter and was waiting for the farmers and the sexually assaulted , reportedly by a gang that posed by the gang especially at night. We vised Masinde. company to resolve the stalemate. operates behind the “Russia” side of the sta- have even lodged complaints with the mu- He noted that Kigathi and Kanjwiri villages dium at night. nicipal council asking for security lights to were affected by the excavation adding that they Compensation Posing as homeless people, the street be erected in the entire area,” said a resident will have to negotiate with the company on terms “We are waiting for the two parties to come to boys light bonfires to keep them warm at who requested anonymity for fear of being of compensation. an agreement as the Government does not plan to night and this is where they sleep. The gang attacked. compensate the farmers,” said Masinde. has now taken to accosting passersby from According to David Kuria Western, di- Rehabilitation According to Stephen Maina, an area resident, as early as 8.00 pm. rector for Nakuru County Human Rights The National Environmental Management villagers were afraid that a major landslide would Network, relevant authorities should ensure Authority (NEMA) ordered Pout Sarajevo Con- pose a great danger to pupils at Kigathi Primary Assaults security for the residents. He condemned struction Company to rehabilitate the quarry School which lies below the quarry. NEMA also Traders operating nearby say that the the attacks and particularly the rape inci- where it had been excavating murram without ordered the company to introduce soil at the base area is no longer safe because even people dents. conducting an Environment Impact Assessment of the benches and plant vegetation. coming late from work are assaulted and “Some people get out of their working (EAI) in November last year. NEMA Central The company was also required to restore an robbed of their valuables. places late in the evening and owing to infla- region director Stephen Njoka ordered the com- access road that had been damaged by the exca- “Operating businesses in the evenings tion, have no alternative but to walk homes. pany to rehabilitate the quarry and compensate vation and look for ways to channel run off water especially after 7.00 pm is proving a chal- Security should be established to curb such farmers whose land would be encroached in the safely to the nearest water way. There have been lenge for one is risking a rape or an attack incidents,” observed Kuria. benching. several landslides in the area and villagers fear by the group,” said one woman who operates The officer in charge of operations in Rift “Another condition was that there would be their lives could be lost if the murram excavations a business along Afraha Road. She said the Valley Willy Lugusa Ndagona also said that no further excavations as this will undermine continue. street boys had already turned the area into no one has reported any such incidents but the cliff which is steep and might collapse,” Njoka The District Environment Management Au- their home. promised to investigate the matter. told the Reject. A meeting between the company, thority had discussed and then allowed the Put She noted that identity cards of women “Now that you have informed us of such NEMA, provincial administration, county coun- Sarajevo Construction Company to use any mur- who had been assaulted were placed at a crimes, we are going to look into the matter cil and provincial geologists agreed that farmers ram that could be realised in the rehabilitation nearby post. “People operating around the squarely,” assured Lugusa. should be compensated if benching eats into their process. ISSUE 077, February 16-28, 2013 Unfiltered, uninhibited…just the gruesome truth 3 High cost of heart surgery gives mother sleepless nights

By OCHIENG JUMA test was done and it confirmed that Faith had a complex heart condition For the past year, 29-year-old Ann known as Truncus Arteriosus type 1. Nthenya Kioko has had sleepless “The doctor told me my baby has a nights because of her baby’s heart con- hole in her heart and needs surgery to dition. correct the situation. I was shocked by When she gave birth to her second the news but what followed was tough Faith Mueni in June last year, Nthenya for me, when the doctor added that the was filled with joy like any other moth- operation can only be done in India as it er. However, this joy was short-lived as was not offered in Kenya,” she explains. soon it was discovered that something Nthenya says after consultation with was wrong with her. the doctors, she was told she would “When I gave birth to Faith, she did need about KSh1 million for Faith to not cry as is expected of a new born. I undergo a heart surgery in India. delivered at 8pm but it was until about “I was given the budget and amount 1 am in the morning when she cried for needed for the operation. They said air the first time,” explains Nthenya during ticket together with the surgery and an interview at her home in Masii town. accommodation would cost us KSh1 Problems started when she took the million,” she says. Nthenya and her child to the clinic for check-up after one husband could not afford the money month when it was discovered that the needed. They opted for Mater Hospital baby’s weight was not increasing as ex- in Nairobi. pected. “When I took her to the clinic The same examinations were car- at the health centre after one month, ried which confirmed the same but this she was found to be weighing 3.95 kilo- time round they were advised to buy grammes. It was at this point that I felt some medicine to ease the condition. something was wrong with my baby,” “At Mater the doctors gave us medi- Nthenya says. cine but strongly recommended that we take our girl to India so that she Diagnosis could be operated on to reverse the It is then that the mother of two condition,” explains Nthenya. She adds: together with her husband decided to “What is bothering me is that the oper- take Faith to Machakos Level Five Hos- ation must be done before Faith reaches pital for further examinations. Nthenya eight months.” was told she needed to feed the baby Nthenya has to keep up with vari- better because it looked like she was not ous challenges to ensure Faith is com- eating well. fortable. She bought milk formula for the baby was advised to see if she would im- Infections prove. On the fourth month baby Faith “It is a must that she uses antibiotics had Pneumonia infection and fever. every week. She easily gets infections Nthenya was forced to seek medical and develops fever,” says Nthenya. She assistance at the nearest health centre adds: “The other challenge is the kind where they were referred once again to of medication she has to take. Every From top: Ann Nthenya with her baby girl Faith during the interview at their home in Masii town. A Machakos Level Five Hospital because week she needs drugs worth KSh4,000.” letter from The Mater Hospital calling upon well wishers to assist baby Faith undergo heart operation Faith was having problems breathing. Her husband Kioko works in Na- in India. Nthenya attends to her baby. Pictures: Ochieng Juma It was at that point that the doctors kuru as a company driver and does asked her to take Faith for an echo test not earn enough money to sustain According to Heart Diseases in and failure to gain weight and grow vised that she travels to India where she and avail the results to the hospital. this treatment. Nthenya used to sell Children Information Centre, in properly. Surgical repair is recom- will undergo the life-saving operation. “When I took the echo test results clothes for her livelihood but was truncus arteriosus is a hole between mended in the first two weeks of life. The estimated cost of surgery is back to the hospital, the doctors noticed forced to quit to give her baby full the two ventricles (ventricular septal A letter addressed to whoever can $8,000 (about KSh640,000) exclusive there was something wrong with my time care. defect or VSD) and there is only one assist Faith by The Mater Hospital and of air ticket and accommodation for baby’s heart. I was immediately referred She is now faced with the dilemma blood vessel which emerges from signed by Cardiac Programme Coordi- the accompanying adult. Faith’s par- to Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), of providing quality healthcare for her both ventricles at the part where they nator Susan Gachathi reads that Faith ents are appealing for assistance from ” explains Nthenya as she tries to hold daughter as the clocks keeps ticking communicate through the ventricular has been diagnosed with a complex well-wishers to enable them raise back her tears. away every second. She is now forced septal defect. heart condition (Truncus Arteriosus funds for this worthy cause. She was admitted in Kenyatta Hos- to loop up to well-wishers to come to If untreated, the child will initially Type I) that requires urgent surgery. To assist Faith you can reach pital for a week but the baby continued her baby’s aid so that she can have a suffer from heart failure, which mani- Since this type of surgery cannot Nthenya or Kioko through 0733455441 to experience infections. Another echo healthy life. fest as rapid breathing, poor feeding be performed locally, doctors have ad- and 0703821806. FGM still rife in Embu County despite laws

By KARIUKI MWANGI len Waweru adding that there is a need Embu County where every family re- system so as to be able to accommo- the country which is not providing a for change of attitude regarding the ceives KSh2000 saying that last year date all the children to attain education soft landing for them. The rate of female genital mutilation whole issue. they used KSh54 million to support as entailed in the new constitution. At the same time, she called upon practices is still high in Embu County The chairperson pointed out that the children in Embu County alone. “Of the 811 930 pupils who con- the Independent electoral and bound- saying that the residents continue to the communities in the county con- She said that the council has this cluded and got KCPE results, a few of aries commission (IEBC) to take stern practice the illegal vice despite the tinue to take part in the retrogressive year used KSh24 million to support the them will get a chance to join second- action against politicians who are using tough laws prohibiting it. acts without realising it is hampering 130,000 families with orphans and vul- ary schools, and the questions that we children during the campaign period. “The rate of female genital mu- the development of the girl child add- nerable children in the country adding are not asking is that, where will the Waweru said that the political lead- tilation now stands at 60 percent in ing that they should be educated to use that they intend to use KSh3 billion for rest of the pupils go?” he posed. ers have been using the children below Mbeere district while in the larger alternative rites of passage. the same by the end of the year. Hussein said that children should the age of 18 years in their campaigns Embu county, the FGM rates stands at Waweru said that the council is According to the director of chil- not be fully blamed for joining the il- mostly to entertain them saying that 50 percent,” said the National council already supporting 322 families with dren services, Ahmed Hussein, there is legal sects and imbibing into alcohol the IEBC needs to take action so as to for children’s services chairperson Hel- orphans and vulnerable children in need to review the country’s education whereas it is the education system in protect the children. 4 Unfiltered, uninhibited…just the gruesome truth ISSUE 077, February 16-28, 2013 Media urged to promote peace through positive stories By DIANA WANYONYI mission has now reduced the next par- liamentary pay?” he questioned. Print and electronic journalists in He further urged the police to Coast region have been urged to be handle cases Sexual Gender Based ambassadors of peace through their Violence (SGBV) with the seriousness articles before and after March Gen- they deserve during this election pe- eral election. riod. He blamed them for being reluc- Speaking in Mombasa at a media tant in handling such cases previously. colloquium in Mombasa organised by African Woman and Child Features GBV under Tuvuke Initiative for free, fair “It is unfortunate how Sexual Gen- and peaceful elections, Father Gabriel der Based Violence incidences increase Dolan of St Patrick Catholic Parish during election period in this country. in Bangladesh who is also a member In the Coast region justice has not of Haki Yetu Initiative urged journal- been done to women who were vic- ists to be at the forefront in publishing tims of sexual molestation during the positive stories. post-election violence in 2007-2008 Dolan cited the need for journal- because the police up to date have not ists to be objective in their reporting investigated nor prosecuted any sexual by giving prominence to peace stories offenders,” observed Dolan. in order to avoid a repeat of 2007- Speaking during the workshop, 2008 post-election violence. Patrick Ochieng’, Executive Director Ujamaa Centre said that the media Tension has an important role to play in en- “Sometimes I wonder why jour- lightening Kenyans on land laws and nalists have the tendency of ignoring women land ownership. peace functions as most of them usu- “Media has been reluctant to do ally pass unmentioned in both elec- extensive research on stories related tronic and print media,” noted Dolan. to women and land ownership. They Journalists engage in group discussions at a media colloquium in Mombasa organised by AWC He added: “But most unfortunately the have only highlighted what they are under Tuvuke Initiative for free fair and peaceful elections. Pictures: Diana Wanyonyi said functions have key factors that told but not what they need to investi- affect common mwananchi on the gate,” noted Ochieng. He added: Inves- major issue which should be tackled “Women are most affected when it tution, the report recommends that grassroots level and this has posed a tigative stories should be used to shape with urgency. comes to matters of land ownership. there is need for the Government to big challenge in educating and inform- our understanding by informing us The report shows that the catego- They own it through cultivation but educate people on the work of the Na- ing the audience.” land laws and what the Constitution ries of people who are affected by land they cannot own it as per documen- tional Land Commission and how the However, Dolan cautioned that say about land rights and land owner- problems in the region are majority tation as they do not own land title Constitution protects their land inter- during this electioneering period jour- s h ip.” and identified them as being the poor deeds. Moreover, they are also denied ests as individuals. nalists should be keen in reporting on In a pre-election scenarios, a citizen 27.2 per cent, women 19.7 per cent, chances of making major decision over Secondly, the Government should conflict sensitive stories in order to perception survey conducted by the members of the local communities at it,” noted Ochieng’. ensure that the new land laws ad- avoid tension and unnecessary alarm. Ujamaa Trust Centre in three counties 17.4 per cent, family members 16.1 per “Less than 10 per cent of women in equately protect the vulnerable not “Media always look for story but of the Coast region — Kwale, Mom- cent, the marginalized 12.8 per cent urban areas own land unlike women to lose their parcels of land, including not the truth, this has led to lack of basa and Kilifi — land emerged as the and men who are at 11.1 per cent. in rural areas who do not own land as the poor, youth, women and margin- integrity and honesty to some of the their hands have been tied in the alized communities. media houses thus influencing the bondage of patriarchal mind-sets Thirdly, there is need to have mod- way we report on sensitive issues such which has underprivileged their ernized land documentation pro- as outlawed groups, tribal clashes and “Sometimes I wonder ability to ownership of land espe- cesses through computerization and elections,” observed Dolan. cially if their spouses die or they are installation of universal GIS maps On election reporting, he urged why journalists have the obliged to inherit the land without on all parcels of land throughout the the Fourth Estate to stop favouring tendency of ignoring the title deed,” Ochieng observed. country. some political aspirants on individual Lastly, the Government should basis saying this makes them to be bi- peace functions as most Statistics weed out processes that promote cor- ased while covering their stories. On Internally Displaced Per- ruption in acquisition and transfer of “Election is about Kenyans but not of them usually pass sons (IDP’s) and historical land in- land such as discretional powers vested individuals. Journalists should pull out justices, the report shows that many on individuals liable to misuse them. of the politicians’ traps and question unmentioned in both of respondents (51.1 per cent) were However, Ochieng’ is optimis- them on the important issues such as not happy with how the govern- tic that Ujamaa will liaise with the where they get money for campaigns? electronic and print ment had resolved land issues with land task force that is in place to de- How much are they spending in cam- regard to IDPs. On the other hand, velop laws that will address the issue of paigns weekly? If they are using public media.” (48.8 per cent) were of them think women and land ownership as well as money, how will they repay back given — Father Gabriel Dolan that the government has done well. provide civic education on their con- that the Salary and Enumeration Com- On land under the new consti- stitutional rights. Peace and security key to new government By JOHN HARRINGTON NDETA build better state-society relations with cent of the impoverished, 65 per cent ascension to power of new leaders un- ing their security concerns are taken a bottoms up approach. of people without access to safe water der the new election may challenge and into account, as well as reconstruction It is all systems go as the election day This could involve empowering and 70 per cent of infant deaths occur change existing power relations, and af- and development projects that benefit draws closer as political parties and co- people to participate in decision-mak- in fragile or conflict-affected countries”. fect dynamics of peace and conflict. different regions and groups equally. alitions have all unveiled their manifes- ing so that employment is even and all All those seeking to lead Kenya must It is incumbent upon all those who They should operate in ways that sup- tos and roadmaps. services provided in an open and ac- prioritise building peace and security will assume power to practice conflict port the local economy and provide Priorities for all major parties run countable manner. across the country if they are to achieve sensitive approach including deliber- employment opportunities to local from development and economic One of the main issues I wish to flag any of their goals and objectives. ately seeking to understand the context people. growth to education and health. out if we are to attain development and The rationale for focusing on peace they will be leading in especially the While some political parties have However, the question to ask is economic growth is the issue of peace and security stems from our past expe- conflict dynamics. made commitments to peace and se- whether or not Kenya will have an en- and security. Kenya is faced with exter- rience. In 2007-2008, economic growth Conflict sensitivity is sometimes as- curity, there is some way to go to trans- abling environment for these noble nal threats in the form of terrorist group rate stood at seven per cent but dropped sociated with the ‘politicization’ of lead- late this into changes in practice. This ideas to be realised. As front runners such as Al Shabaab as well as internal to a paltry 0.7 per cent within the two ership and representation of the people. is particularly evident from our past in the forthcoming polls, what are discords where several areas including months of turmoil. Leadership and representation is always where leaders have tended to amass the risks and assumptions the Eagle, Coast, Nairobi, Nyanza and Rift Val- political especially when it comes to wealth for themselves and their cro- Amani, Jubilee and Cord alliances are ley have been identified as potential Resources delivery of services because it tends cre- nies under the notion that ‘it is our working with? hotspots. Peace and security contributes to ates winners and losers. turn to eat’. A look at the manifestos shows that Unresolved historical injustices also the protection of human rights and A good leader, therefore, should A new Kenya must not underdevel- political parties have taken develop- portend violence to magnitudes that economic development and no leader take into account these politics with an op one area at the expense of the other ment as a technical process, focusing may easily erode economic gains any should be delighted when hell breaks aim of reducing rather than increases and thereby creating societal tensions on delivering tangible benefits such as government may set out to achieve. loose just because he/she has not won. injustice and exclusion. that divide the country not only on creation of employment or building up Most of the manifestos unveiled did National and county governments Some of the practical ways our tribal lines but on the basis of the haves formal structures such as well-equipped not tackle issues around conflict and must espouse the principles of conflict leaders can use after the polls is to and the have-nots. health centres. fragility of Kenya communities. Recent sensitivity for development. Conflicts put conflict sensitivity into practice. The Writer is the Media and Peace However, to achieve lasting change statistics from the UN point out that “60 generally revolve around competition This will include continuous consul- Coordinator, Peace Initiative Kenya, In- there needs to be more work put in to per cent of the undernourished, 61 per for power and resources. Elections and tation with local stakeholders, ensur- ternational Rescue Committee ISSUE 077, February 16-28, 2013 Unfiltered, uninhibited…just the gruesome truth 5 Rift Valley drama group ‘takes’ justice to the villages

By ROBERT WANJALA the North Rift Peace Theatre Ambas- sadors has been performing plays and It is lunchtime on a warm Saturday, comedy sketches across the region to and the playing fields next to the help people gain a better understanding Cheptiret market are packed with of the ICC and clear the misconcep- people. Men, women and children tions that are being peddled about it in are jostling for position in front of a the run up to the General Elections raised wooden stage. Without warn- The ICC is based at The Hague and ing, a voice calls out from the crowd, has charged four Kenyans, including and a man dressed to look like a a leading presidential candidate with North Rift Peace Ambassadors dancing at Cheptiret market in Eldoret. The group has been politician makes his way, panting and crimes against humanity, accusing performing in the streets to educate people on peace and elections issues. clumsily climbs onto the stage. them of orchestrating the bloodshed Picture: Robert Wanjala “I am finished! I am finished! We’re of 2007-2008. all finished! Our people… we are be- Deputy Prime Minister and presi- a programme to fight accountability It is currently trailing the presidential North Rift Peace Theatre Ambas- ing targeted! Our community! They dential candidate for the Jubilee Alli- against ICC,” said George Kegoro, Ex- campaigners in an effort to reverse sadors have been welcomed by the want to finish us politically and eco- ance Uhuru Kenyatta, former cabinet ecutive Director Kenyan Section of the misunderstandings about the ICC and ICC especially as they are working nomically!” he shouts. secretary Francis Muthaura, former International Commission of Jurists. rebuild Kenyans’ confidence in the jus- in that part of the country where the At this, a band of young men run Member of Parliament William Ruto, “Before Kenyans knew who was on tice process. court has found it particularly difficult panic-stricken onto the stage, brandish- and journalist Joshua arap Sang are all the ICC list of suspects, the support The theatre group’s performance to make its aims and activities under- ing machetes and other weapons, and facing trial for the violence that killed for the court was very high. Immedi- in Cheptiret went down well with the stood. The performers have been able shouting “What? Who? Where? Why? more than 1,000 people and displaced ately after prosecutor Luis Moreno- audience. to explain important elements of the On his part, he responds: “ICC! 600,000 others. Ocampo revealed the names of the court’s work as well as the legal basis ICC! ICC!” six suspects, the support dropped by Knowledge for its intervention in Kenya. They come to an abrupt halt. One Justice about 50 per cent,” said Betty Murun- “I now understand a bit about the “This group is popular and dy- brave soul makes his way across the Their trials are scheduled to start on gi, vice-chair of the board of the Ke- ICC,” said Gladys Yegon, a mother of namic,” said Maria Kamara, the ICC’s stage, trembling as he walks, and asks April 10 and 11 at The Hague. nya Human Rights Commission. She five, carrying her baby on her back. spokeswoman in Kenya. “It has been the politician softly, “Where is he? I Ruto is Kenyatta’s running mate un- added: “This was due to ethnic and “For two hours, I have been standing helpful in explaining difficult parts of mean, ICC?” der the Jubilee Alliance ticket. political mobilizations that followed here watching this group perform I the ICC process through drama.” As the audience applauds, the politi- When the ICC began its investiga- afterwards in the country.” realise our politicians are not telling The group uses drama and dance cian bows his head. A split second later tions in Kenya in 2009, it met with wide The reason why this drama group us the truth. Seeing them act how the to communicate messages about a ‘pastor’ walks out from the crowd to public support as Kenyans yearned for has come up with plays is because of the ICC works and how it is structured, I peace and raise public awareness tell everyone that the ICC is the Inter- justice. However, in the Rift Valley misconceptions around the ICC. Those now believe it’s the best thing to deal about leadership and governance national Criminal Court, “a permanent the support quickly diminished when like Paul Rotich are confused and have with our leaders.” ahead of the elections. international court established to inves- the court announced charges against raised thought about what they think. I According to Ken Rutto, coordina- Rutto, 30, began acting in primary tigate, prosecute and try individuals, senior members of government and no longer have faith in the ICC process,” tor of the theatre programme, making school and used to earn a living by not a group, tribe or community, ac- other popular figures in the region. Paul Rotich, who lives in Cheptiret, people understand the role of ICC in impersonating politicians and radio cused of committing serious crimes of When the ICC confirmed the said. “I have heard many things about Kenya and countering the many false- and television presenters. He found international magnitude”. charges against the four suspects in the court that have made me lose inter- hoods about the court has been “a that mimicking major personalities Cheptiret is a small town located early 2012, Kenyatta and Ruto held est and confidence in the whole process. hard nut to crack”. was a good way to get people to en- 300 kilometres northwest of Nairobi “prayer rallies” that quickly seemed as I don’t see justice being done, because “It has not always been easy to con- gage with important issues. in the Rift Valley, one of the region’s a concerted bid to pull together in the the court is biased and has targeted only vince locals that the ICC is like any oth- “I noticed that talking with people worst hit by the violence that shook crisis. leaders of certain communities.” er justice process. One that is indepen- was not effective, and started acting Kenya after the disputed presidential “The Eldoret meetings in the Rift Through performances like the dent, free from interference by any state things out whenever I wanted to pass election five years ago. Valley were represented as a peace pro- one in Cheptiret, the Rift Valley the- and one that does not target any com- on any message especially to many The local drama group, known as gramme but over time they milled into atre group is trying to change things. munity or country,” explained Rutto. people,” he said. The smallest body part key to peaceful elections

Continued from page 1 peace is disrupted, women suffer and at a loss.” sult left over 1,300 people dead, 3,500 In 1994 war broke out in Rwanda. to gender based violence. gender based violence increases. It was then agreed by all participants injured and over 600,000 fleeing their Majority of men were killed. Women Kimani implored women to pro- She recalled how women worked that women are very powerful and can homes. from different ethnic backgrounds mote peace noting that without it there hard to bring peace in Mt Elgon after either solve conflict or fuel it through Immediately after announcing the came together and rolled out peace ini- will be no economic development and the Sabaot Land Defence Force had car- the power of their tongue. disputed elections “a woman in Burnt tiatives through helping each in build- that its women and their children who ried out major atrocities. It was recalled that in the 2007-2008 Forest went to the market dancing ing houses. will suffer most. post lection violence, it is a woman who while saying we have won and there- These efforts later turned around “Without peace women suffer the Disclosure instigated the conflict. fore the ‘uncircumcised’ will have the leadership game in Rwanda. Avail- most. Peace is critical to development “It is women who opened up Mt “Violence in Burnt Forest during to go and be circumcised”, recalled able statistics show that Rwanda leads and it must start with us as women,” she Elgon to the rest of the word. It is the last elections would have been Kimani. the world with an average 56 per cent reiterated. strong women who came to commu- averted were it not for one woman This insinuation provoked the youth women representation in parliament. Kimani, a peace monitor with Rural nicate with others out of Mt Elgon to who went dancing in the market cel- in the area wanting to prove who will Joyce Muchena, national coordina- Women Peace Link in Burnt forest said say there were bad things happening ebrating the defeat of a rival political leave and violence broke out in Burnt tor Peace Initiative Kenya, said women women should unite and champion for for the rest of the world and Kenya to party hence provoking violence,” said Forest making it one of the areas to be in the region faced almost similar chal- peace because during conflict it is wom- k n ow.” Kimani. marked as a hotspot. lenges. She noted that because of the en and children who bear the greatest Kimani gave a real life story that According to Kimani the woman post lection violence, some parts of Ua- brunt. recently took place in Burnt Forest provoked the community that support- Rwanda sin Gishu County have been branded These sentiments were echoed that moved the participants. She said ed the losing side by saying they would According to Judith Jerebet, an im- ‘hotspots’ but she reiterated the sad fact by Pamela Ruhunga, who is a politi- through a tragic instance some coura- be circumcised down the river. This an- mediate former councillor, Kenyan that mentioning certain regions is syn- cal leader in the area. She noted that geous women averted a potential con- noyed them and violence started that women needed to emulate their Rwan- onymous with gender based violence. women and children suffer most in case flict in the area following a family feud left thousands displaced, property de- dan counterparts in playing the leading “This ‘hotspot’ tag could slow devel- of violence and, therefore, they should that left a husband and wife dead while stroyed and lives lost. role in peace building. opment progress in the region as no one discourage tribalism through talking to leaving behind three children who are In 2007 Kenya went to polls ethni- Jerebet urged women not be swayed would want to come and invest in the their neighbours and the youth who are now orphans. cally divided more than ever in the during this electioneering period and region that is insecure,” noted Muchena. most vulnerable. “A husband killed his wife who is country’s post-independence history. instead preach peace since that is the It is sad that this region is associated According to Mary Chepkwony, from a different tribe and later killed Besides other parties, two main po- only way be safe be able to take care for with images of violence. “As women Deputy Director Team Leader with himself,” Kimani explained. “Relatives litical forces competing for power were their families. you need to be anchored in everything Rural Women Peace Link women need and people from the woman’s side the Orange Democratic Movement In a veiled poetic message, she to change the bad image associated to unite and explore ways of preaching rushed to the home of the deceased (ODM) and the Party of National Unity appealed to peace actors to consider with this region,” reiterated Muchena. and promoting peace ahead of elections couple wanting to retaliate but some (PNU). taking some women to Rwanda to She added: “When history will be writ- to avoid a repeat of the 2007-2008 post- women intervened averting the clash The political competition ended in enable them learn on how women ten about the new image of this region, election violence. that would have sparked violence be- violence following presidential dispute. helped to bring peace during the someone will remember your work as According to Chepkwony, when tween the two communities which were The heavily disputed presidential re- genocide in 1994. women in peace.” 6 Unfiltered, uninhibited…just the gruesome truth ISSUE 077, February 16-28, 2013 Naomi Shaban seeks to defend her Taveta seat By BENSON MWANGA Mwalulu. When the 2002 General Elec- As the clock ticks towards 2013 Gener- tion was called, Shaban had done al Election, Dr Naomi Shaban’s name her ground work well and she easily will be on the ballot paper. This time romped home on a Kanu ticket. she is vying for the position of Mem- She retained her seat in 2007 and ber of Parliament for Taveta Constitu- was subsequently appointed to the cab- ency having received direct nomina- inet becoming the first women from tion from The National Alliance party. the Coast region to become a minister. Even though, she did not have to This time she will be defending her go through the gruelling nomination position on the TNA ticket. Although process that a majority of the women she will be once gain facing male com- underwent, it has not always been that petitors, she believes that her track easy. Politics has exposed Dr Naomi record in the development of Taveta Shaban, Minister for Gender, Chil- Constituency will be her benchmark in dren’s Affairs and Social Services to the reclaiming the seat. extra hurdles women politicians have Shaban has been instrumental in to contend with. the buying of 15,000 acres of land that In 2001, when she embarked on has seen the resettlement of 10,000 elective politics, Shaban who is also people. the outgoing Taveta MP had a difficult This is why even now she looks at time to convince the local council of resettlement of squatters as one factor elders (Njama) to allow her contest for that tops her key agenda if re-elected. the seat in a by-election. She is also focusing on improving standards of education in the area be- Patriachy cause they have been relatively low. Perturbed by their patriarchal be- “I would like to have more schools haviour, she defied elders who had built and have them equipped with the gone to request her mother to con- necessary facilities,” says Shaban. “I vince Shaban to drop her parliamen- want to ensure that teacher student ra- tary bid in favour of a man. tio is not so wide because with the free Since the by-election then, she has primary education we have seen that gone to serve as the Member of Parlia- the gap between pupils and teachers is ment for Taveta Constituency going very wide.” Naomi Shaban ,Member of Parliament Taveta constituency. She overcame many challenges to earn on to win subsequent elections. She adds: “It is now time that an- the seat and is defending it on a second term. Picture: Benson Mwanga “I simple rebelled against this cul- cient cultural values be avoided to give tural bias against women and went equal education opportunities to both couraged a number of women to fight major problem and her mother who interest in the education of girls as well ahead with my ambitions of becoming boys and girls.” for leadership positions but I am en- was depending on loans from her as assisting young people get into col- an MP,” she says. Shaban was appalled She also wants to see to it that couraging them to vie because politics place of work to educate her. leges as well as securing jobs. by this traditional belief that a woman road infrastructure in the Taita Taveta is not a preserve of men,” she says. “After deductions and domestic As a result of this, women identi- should not aspire for a leadership posi- County is improved. Shaban has indeed come a long needs she hardly had any money for fied her as a potential leader. tion. way from the time she had to learn anything else,” recalls Shaban. “It is the women who convinced Had it not for her mother’s bless- Development how to make meals for her siblings She passed her “A” levels and was me to vie for the Taveta parliamentary ings and other women’s encourage- In the previous Parliament Shaban while her grandparents were away admitted to the University of Nairobi seat which had been held by Basil Crit- ment that they would back her all the pushed for the construction of the working on small pieces of leased to study Dental Surgery. Before join- icos,” she says. way through she could have pulled out. Taveta-Mwatate-Voi road. This road is land in Taveta. ing university she briefly worked for Although she is defending her Her chance to plunge into elective in a deplorable state and she would like At the time of her tender age, her Housing Finance Company of Kenya parliamentary seat for the third time, politics came after the then Taveta MP reconstruction to start immediately. widowed mother was away working (HFCK). Shaban says she is faced with the task Basil Criticos left the country in 2001 “I want to ensure that if I am elect- in a printing firm in Nairobi. She says of finding a lasting solution to the the following year and the seat was ed, the contractor will be on site by when her father died and the family Career squatter problem which is a thorny is- subsequently declared vacant. June,” she says. relocated from Mombasa to Taveta to After graduating with a degree in sue. She is also thinking of how to deal Naomi says though she was not Not fearing the challenge she is go- live with her maternal grandparents. Dental Surgery in 1988, Shaban did with the perennial flooding menace, ready her supporters convinced her ing to face now, Shaban unlike other “Due to the grinding poverty, my her internship at Kenyatta National persistent human wildlife conflict and that it was the best opportunity to test women is quite prepared for the com- mother had to move to Nairobi to look Hospital and was posted thereafter improving poor road infrastructure in the waters in the by-election which fol- petition. She has her development re- for a job to fend for us,” Shaban ex- posted to Kajiado District Hospital. the area among others. lowed later. cord in Taveta to back her up. She will plains. “I realised then that education She worked in Kajiado until 1995 She notes that a feasibility study has also be depending on the women and was the only way out of the poverty when she resigned to engage in private been conducted on how to control re- Culture her community to back her. that had affected my family.” practice. current cross-border floods in the area. The council of elders would not Shaban ensured that loans from the From the time she started working Shaban promises to ensure provi- allow her to vie for the parliamentary Women Enterprise and Youth funds Education she was involved in development ac- sion of clean drinking water for do- seat due to restrictive cultural beliefs reached her constituents as well. Her success to life was seen when tivities back at home. She took special mestic use and irrigation to improve against women. She is happy that in her tenure she enrolled in Standard One at Ma- food security, education for all, easy She describes the beliefs as outdat- many unemployed youth from Taveta hoo Primary School in Taveta. access to health facilities as well as ru- ed, retrogressive and counterproduc- got jobs in the civil service and within She was a bright girl emerging top “I have a lot of ral electrification to all villages. tive to women seeking elective posi- the private sector. of her class every end term and every- Other issues she seeks to tackle tions in the community. Having been a minister and an MP, body in the village envied her sterling satisfaction that include market access for agricultural Shaban was denied a Kanu nomi- resources might not be a challenge as performance. produce to local farmers, security and nation after the council of elders sent a it would be for newcomers who might “I was happy with my grandparents Taveta people have establishment of settlement schemes delegation to the party’s headquarters have come from a background of un- that despite my chores at home they to benefit the locals. in Nairobi to restrain the party from employment. helped in shaping my destiny,” she says. confidence in me and Shaban says she will strive to em- nominating her. “I have a lot of satisfaction that Ta- After sitting her CPE in 1975, she power her constituents economically “I was bitter with the elder’s deci- veta people have confidence in me and scored 30 out of 36 points, no mean that is why they had by making use of locally available re- sion but I decided to soldier on with that is why they had given me a second achievement then. She was admitted sources to improve their well-being. my quest,” she says. chance to represent them in parlia- to Bura Girls’ School in Taita although given me a second Some of her projects she initiated She approached Vice President and ment,” she says. her choice was Alliance Girls’ High and completed that are geared towards Ford Kenya national chairman the late While encouraging more women School. chance to represent fighting poverty include Njoro Kubwa Michael Wamalwa Kijana who granted to vie for political positions in future, After her “O” levels she passed well Irrigation Canal, revival of Lake Jipe her a certificate to participate in the by- Shaban challenges them to start cam- and was admitted to Butere Girls for them in parliament.” Rehabilitation Project, Ngutuni Rural election. She managed to come third in paigning early enough. “A” levels. Electrification Project as well as HIV the competitive race won by Jackson “Lack of empowerment has dis- It turned out that school fees was a — Dr Naomi Shaban and Aids projects among others. ISSUE 077, February 16-28, 2013 Unfiltered, uninhibited…just the gruesome truth 7 Lucy Muthaka, youngest aspirant on Security tops Catherine Omanyo’s the race to Parliament By Mercy Mumo agenda Matayos Constituency At 28 years, Lucy Muthaka is the youngest parliamentary aspirant in the country. She clinched the United Demo- By GILBERT OCHIENG cratic Forum (UDF) party to run for the Embakasi West parliamentary seat. A seasoned politician from Muthaka exudes confidence that she will win the seat. Busia County and a product She is the only Member of Parliament in Nairobi County of Matayos division, Cath- elected with more votes during the nominations. (How erine Omanyo is determined many votes did she get against her opponents) to battle it out with men in the She attributes this to her three campaign managers race for the newly established who worked tirelessly to ensure she is visible, relevant and Matayos parliamentary seat accessible to the people. recently curved out of the for- mer Nambale Constituency. She is exuding confidence and is aiming at nothing short of winning. Omanyo is a business- woman and director of Im- prezza Schools established in 2001. In her first political stint, she vied for the Nam- bale parliamentary seat in 2007 under the Kenya Afri- can Democratic Development Union (KADDU) party ticket formerly owned by Cyrus Jirongo. She emerged third out of 11 contestants with the former legislator Chris Oke- mo carrying the day. After los- ing the election in 2007, her party KADDU rewarded her Lucy Muthama is the youngest aspirant with the position of National for parliamentary seat in Kenya but she Women Leader in 2008. believes that she has enough experience and Omanyo has also been in- leadership skills to represent Embakasi West volved in football management constituency. Picture :Henry Owino having served as Secretary Muthaka is a student currently pursuing a degree in General of Abaluhya Football political science from the University of Nairobi. She holds Club (AFC) commonly known a diploma in business management from Nairobi Institute as Leopards football club be- of Business Studies. tween June 2010 and Decem- “It was not as easy as you may think. The notion out ber 2011. there is that if you are aspiring to be in politics it is au- However, she gave up this tomatic that you have the resources. While campaigning, position after persistent calls voters expect you to convince them with money and other by the residents of Matayos that freebies,” she laments. she joins the political arena. Besides politics, Muthaka is a peace ambassador in her After her secondary edu- area and chairperson of Voice of Women, a non-govern- cation at St Mary’s Mumias mental organisation that empowers women and youth Girls High School, Omanyo economically. joined the University of Nai- “We give small loans to women and the youth to start robi in 1998 and graduated their own businesses. We also engage in community polic- with a degree in education in ing where we conduct clean up exercises and spread the 2002. In 2003,W she enrolled Catherine Omanyo,candidate Member of Parliament Matayos constituency. Education tops at Data Centre in Nairobi for a peace messages,” she explains. her priorities and she is determined to improve it if elected. Picture: Gilbert Ochieng certificate course in computer Projects studies. prezza Schools in the county. school leavers to various col- not only in the division but Being development conscious, Muthaka has been sup- Practice Currently phase one which is leges that include Multi-Media across the entire constituency. porting several youth projects in Embakasi Constituency. primary school is done. She is University, Ramogi Institute of Of essence she notes that lack She opened Logical School of Professionals with the sup- Determined to gain leader- now working on the next phase Advanced Technology (RIAT) of streetlights along the busy port of Gatekeepers International based in USA to engage ship experience, she attended which also constitutes a college in Kisumu City and Bumbe highway as giving thugs the op- almost 300 students for free career education mostly on IT. a youth leadership programme where students in the school Technical College among oth- portunity to attack people. Previously, Muthaka worked with the late Professor at the National Development will benefit from. ers where the beneficiaries pur- “The current leadership has George Saitoti in 2006 as his campaign consultant for the Institute in the United States of sue the skills of their choice.” failed to protect the residents of youth. The young aspirant is passionate about working America that works with devel- Achievements Omanyo is focusing majorly Matayos especially the motor- with the youth. Her campaign is focussing on peace, se- opment officers in a corporate “They will come out of Im- on education saying major- bike operators in the area,” says curity, development, health care job creation and dealing training setting introducing prezza with both pragmatic and ity of needy children especially Omanyo. She explains: “Boda with ethnicity and tribalism. (what does she hope to do in them to major specialities like theoretical skills. I have also in- orphaned vulnerable children boda riders are always losing all these topics?) fundraising. She attended a troduced Lunga and Nang’oma do not complete their school- their motorbikes to people pos- Muthaka was also the first candidate from Embakasi youth leaders’ workshop in the schools in Nambale and Ma- ing. She observes that they are ing as passengers with majority West to be cleared by Independent Electoral and Bound- United Kingdom 2009 and in tayos respectively to partner forced to drop out of school of them losing their lives after aries Commission (IEBC) and immediately organised May 2010 and had an opportu- schools in the United Kingdom. due lack of funds to either ca- refusing to let go of the bikes a peaceful rally. One of her campaign managers, Jamlek nity to lecture at Stokeigntein- The teachers involved in ed- ter for tuition or secondary fees which are their source of liveli- Avesa was President Kibaki’s campaign manager in 2007. head in the Devon County. ucation exchange programmes because they cannot access bur- hood.” This makes her campaign unique. “Armed with the above aca- on how they can improve sary to enable them remain in For this reason Omanyo says On winning come Match 4, she is confident and posi- demic and professional experi- education standards in the re- school. that she will give security first tive that she will make it. If elected, she promises to give ence especially in leadership, I gions,” explains Omanyo. priority unlike the outgoing lo- Embakasi the face it deserves in terms of improved infra- feel I have what it takes to en- “I have also managed to se- Challenges cal leaders who have turned a structure, modern health facilities and job creation for the able me effectively manage de- cure employment for a good She argues that the bursary deaf ear to the pleas of the resi- youth through partnerships. (How will she do all these?) velopment affairs in Matayos number of young school leav- committee is biased and only dents. She is appealing to all Kenyans and especially women Constituency if elected MP,” ers in Kenya and in the Middle assist children whose parents “Armed with the above aca- to come out and make the right choice come election time. says Omanyo. She notes that East. I have as well empowered are in good books of the local demic, professional and work “Come March 4, all Kenyans should head to the bal- though her opponents have various women and youth leadership where those pur- experiences especially in leader- lot to elect their person of choice without any interference. underrated her, they are in for groups through the provision ported not to have voted for the ship, I feel I have what it takes to Let us also exercise peace as we vote, we cannot afford to a rude shock come the General of farm inputs to promote ag- local leaders are denied fund- enable me to effectively manage see ourselves where we were five years ago,” says Muthaka. Election. riculture and catering services,” ing. development affairs in Matayos What are the strong points of the candidate compared Her contribution and explains Omanyo. She adds: Omanyo’s concerns include Constituency if elected MP,” she to her competitors. achievement in the society in- clude the establishment of Im- “I have also managed to take the rising cases of insecurity reiterates. 8 Unfiltered, uninhibited…just the gruesome truth ISSUE 077, February 16-28, 2013 Jane Okendo seeks to bridge inequality gap By Faith Muiruri local support through her philanthropic work. agricultural activities. “Leadership means being able to identify with Her primary concern, if elected, will be to Jane Okendo has inched closer to becoming the the people you serve, knowing their problems push for laws that will help to address the rising first county representative for the Central Ka- and helping to resolve them,” she explains. cases of unemployment among the youth. Access magambo Ward under the new Constitution. Okendo’s passion is to bridge the glaring in- to clean water is something that her constituents Her political bid emboldened by her resound- equalities in society and this is what inspired her suffer from and she will, through the county gov- ing victory during the just concluded political to join politics. ernment push for the installation of piped water party primaries. “The plight of poor rural families struggling as majority of the area residents are still fetching Okendo is the only woman in Migori County to make ends meet pushed me into politics,” she the commodity from rivers. who notched a comfortable victory at the prima- explains. She intends to employ an inclusive approach ries to clinch the Orange Democratic Movement She is credited for having helped equip in her leadership and promises to restore the (ODM) party ticket and secure a vantage point schools with cooking gas. This, she says, was community’s role as being active participant in ahead of the elections. aimed at ensuring that students and girls, in par- development. She says the area has continued to She is optimistic that she will garner over- ticular, are confined to schools to help minimise lag behind in development because the commu- whelming votes during the forthcoming General their chances of dropping out of school. nity has not been engaged in taking ownership of Election. Her candidature is likely to receive a “About 44 schools have benefitted from the projects initiated. major boost as Central Kamagambo Ward is ar- initiative which has also helped improve students’ guably perceived to be an ODM stronghold and general performance,” she observes. Plans chances are that the outcome of the grassroots She now prides herself for initiating a pro- “If elected I will establish development com- party elections will shape the political realities gramme that has increased enrolment and reten- mittees at the sub-locational level. These com- that may determine the election outcome. tion of girls in schools. She says most girls in the mittees will be tasked with the responsibility of Okendo is not new in the political arena. She area drop out of school due to unwanted preg- Jane Okendo,candidate County planning and prioritising development in their first bounced into the political limelight in 2007 nancies or forced marriages. Representative for Central respective areas to guide in the disbursement of when she contested for the Rongo parliamentary Kamagambo. Picture: Courtesy funds,” Okendo explains. seat but lost to Dalmas Otieno at the primaries. Record She says that in the past, resources have been However, she managed second position in the Okendo has also been able to build 22 Early the core of leadership. channelled to a limited segment of the ward’s hotly contested race. Childhood Development (ECD) centres in the Okendo recognises that women form a solid population while a large percentage of the area “This helped to strengthen my resolve to join area. She says that ECD centres have in the past foundation in society. It is in this respect that she lagged behind in development. elective politics and I have never turned back,” been accorded little attention despite the fact that has helped many of them to venture into income She also plans to push for the introduction Okendo notes during the interview. they play a critical role in laying foundation to a generating projects. of a monthly stipend targeting the elderly and She has since mounted door-to-door cam- child’s development and learning. “I have helped about 15 women groups in widows in the community at the county level. paigns and managed to establish a formidable Okendo says that the initiative has helped to the area to establish small businesses and some This, she says, will help augment the existing network at the ward level. facilitate an enabling and stimulating environ- are currently engaged in fish farming and other kitty and ensure that the group is not deprived ment at the foundation stages of lifelong learning. commercial ventures,” she says. of basic necessities as majority currently live in Motivation She observes that a shaky foundation affects Okendo has also been engaged in HIV cam- abject poverty. “The 2007 General Election served to propel a child's opportunity for holistic learning and paigns that seek to eliminate stigma associated Okendo is a peace crusader and plans to pro- me to the public limelight and, therefore, I had growth. with the pandemic whose prevalence rate re- mote harmonious coexistence in the area which to work hard to realize my dream to join elective The aspirant says that the Kenyan Constitu- mains high in the area. borders Kuria and Kisii communities. politics,” she says. tion provides that every child has a right to free Having worked with the community, Okendo The aspirant holds a certificate in Commu- Okendo says the journey has not been easy and compulsory basic education which entails notes that she is better placed to implement pro- nity Development from the University of Nai- but the sacrifice this time round could reward quality services and access to educational in- grammes that will purely lead to improved liveli- robi. She has also been trained on Guidance and her with the post of a county representative. Her stitutions including facilities for persons with hoods and lifestyles of the local people. Counselling at the same institution. She is cur- door-to-door campaign strategy has helped en- disabilities. She says that agriculture has not received rently undertaking a Diploma in Sociology at the dear her to the people and earned her some po- Similarly, Vision 2030 also recognises that adequate attention and farmers have virtu- Catholic University. litical mileage. education and training of all Kenyans is fun- ally relied on fish farming, a practice which She has been roped into ODM presidential Renowned for her charity work, Okendo is not damental to the success of development and, is to blame for the dwindling fish stock. Once campaign team and appeals to losers in the race new to the community and has managed to win therefore, the need to inculcate education into elected, she plans to help farmers diversify their to accept defeat. Rebecca Kitana in the race for MP Kangundo Constituency By Joyce Chimbi grassroots women to ensure that they rum. This is a forum that is geared to- not only understand about the Women wards narrowing the leadership gap be- Rebecca Mbithe Kitana is among those Enterprise Fund, a micro-finance credit tween men and women in the County,” battling it out for the Kangundo Con- that was flagged off by the Government she says. stituency parliamentary seat. It is no in 2007 to improve the socio-economic Kitana explains that this goes hand laughing matter for the youthful leader status of women, but that they use the in hand with the Constitution that has who is running against 15 male contes- fund in sustainable and substantial stipulated the need to expand the po- tants. ways. litical arena to ensure that women and Kitana, who is vying under the Na- “Women Enterprise Fund is very men occupy positions of leadership. tional Vision Party, is a well-known active in Machakos, in fact, we are a figure in Machakos County, having model example. We can only move Equality made an unsuccessful attempt for the forward as a country if people un- She, therefore, envisions a society same seat in 2007, and also for her work derstand how to be self-reliant,” she where everyone has an equal chance within Kangundo Constituency, that observes. to access opportunities and to better has spanned over a decade. Kitana says that her work also ex- themselves. Having graduated from Kenyatta tends to working with the disabled. Last Her campaign is, therefore, an- University in 2000 with a Bachelor’s year, she recalls receiving a distress call chored around the theme ‘Bridging the Degree in Psychology, Kitana knew that from Utooni Village which is less than gap between the rich and poor’. her work would not only involve inter- two kilometres away from Kangundo “As a parliamentarian, my work will acting closely with people, but serving town, in Machakos County. be to legislate. To make laws that ad- them as well. The situation involved a young dis- dress issues that affect Kenyans on a day With time, she became aware of the abled girl who can neither walk nor to day basis,” she says. Kitana explains: distinct ways in which men and women Rebecca Kitana has been instrumental in fighting for women’s crawl because her limbs are too weak, “These will be laws that ensure that not interact and ways in which poverty af- reproductive rights. She is now ready to serve the residents of who was six months pregnant. only are health centres accessible but fects both. It is this awareness that led Kangundo constituency. Picture :Joyce Chimbi “Kitana followed Nduku’s situa- that they are also stocked with medicine her to pursue a Post-Graduate Diploma tion closely and was very instrumen- as well as enough health practitioners to in Gender Studies in 2005. and has been very instrumental in civic education. “I was there at the in- tal in her survival as well as that of the serve the people.” convening community groups and net- ception of the current Constitution’s re- child,” says Jacinta Mutio, Nduku’s Kitana also speaks about laws that Gender works within Machakos County. view. Throughout the long road that the neighbour. improve the education sector, and will “I gained a solid awareness of the “These groups have not been lim- first draft travelled to the 2010 promul- Kitana is also known for her cam- ensure that those who are intellectually fact that if we are to improve the socio- ited to women. I work with youths, gation, I walked my people through the paign to improve the reproductive gifted, as well as those gifted with skills economic status of men and women, men and women because the society issues represented in the Constitution,” health of women in her constituency. are enriched by the system. we must understand how issues of belongs to all of us. I also work from says Kitana. In Utooni, for instance, where wom- “When I was younger, I was told gender play out within the context of an understanding that different groups She explains: “I mobilized women, en deliver until their wombs run dry, that by 2000 there will be water for all. development. I wanted to serve the have very specific needs, and for maxi- men and youth for community forums she is familiar to the women for her ef- Thirteen years past that deadline and society from a point of knowledge,” mum results, these differences must be and seminars so that they too could forts to improve maternal health. thousands of my constituents are still Kitana explains. acknowledged,” she expounds. understand and also give their views However, her contribution has not with no water. I intend to work towards For the last ten years, Kitana has Kitana has over the years invested regarding the Constitution.” been limited to health. “I have been the laws that speak to these issues,” Kitana been working as a gender consultant a lot of time and personal resources in Kitana has worked closely with chair of Machakos County Women Fo- declares. ISSUE 077, February 16-28, 2013 Unfiltered, uninhibited…just the gruesome truth 9 Milcah Miruka hopes for top management of Kisii County

By BEN OROKO ka served as secretary to the Kenya es as water-borne, Miruka will also Secondary Heads Association (KES- focus on provision of safe and clean Milcah Kerubo Miruka is contesting SHA), Kisii branch from 1989 to 1999. piped water to local communities for the seat of Deputy Governor in the She has also been privileged to hold alongside improved and accessible Kisii County. She will be the running several positions in the society includ- healthcare services to all. mate to Dr Peter Ndemo, who is run- ing being chairperson to the Nduru Her campaigns are also focus- ning for the Kisii County governorship. Boys’ High School board. She was ing on infrastructural development Miruka was born on May 25, 1952 also a board member of Sametat High where she promises to ensure all rural at Masisi village of Masige clan, Bo- School, Kenyenya TTC and Margaret access roads will be made all-weather basi Constituency in Kisii County. Okari (Goti Chaki) Primary School to link local agricultural communi- She went to Kiobegi Primary for the orphans in South Mugirango ties with markets for their produce. (1960-1963) from Standard One to Constituency, Gucha South District. Decrying rampant exploitation of Four and Kereri Primary Boarding local farmers by middlemen, Miruka School (1964-1966) from where she Service pledges to work towards establishment sat her Kenya Certificate of Primary Her political contribution to the of local primary producer co-opera- Education (KCPE). She later pro- society includes serving as a presid- tive societies through which farmers ceeded to Alliance Girls’ High School ing officer with the defunct Electoral for various agricultural products can for her ’O’ levels between 1967-1970 Commission of Kenya (ECK) during market their produce based on the ex- and continued in the same school for the elections in 1992 at Nyankongo isting market prices and demand. ‘A’ levels between 1971-1972. polling station in Kitutu Chache con- She joined the University of Nairo- stituency), 1997 at Nyanko polling Exploitation bi in 1973 and graduated in 1976 with station, Nyaribari Chache Constitu- “If I and the governor candidate a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) de- ency and in 2002 at Tendere polling get elected into office, we will ensure gree, majoring in English and History. station, Bomachoge Constituency. the county government we will form As an educationist, Miruka pre- addresses the problem of exploitation Career viously contributed to the economic of local farmers by middle-men and Miruka has previously held sev- empowerment of local members to work towards the establishment of eral positions in the teaching career, finance education under Nyamataro primary producer co-operative soci- including serving as an assistant Education Fund. eties through which farmers can set teacher at Itierio Secondary School Much of her past contribution to prices for their agricultural produce (1976-1981), headmistress of Kioge the community and society revolved and get value for their commodities Girls’ High School between October around her education career, dur- without being exploited by middle- 1981 and December 1999. ing which she offered guidance and men,” states Miruka. She served as deputy Principal at counselling to students. Her strong campaign points in- Kaimosi Teachers’ Training College be- Currently, she is a secretary to the clude being a running mate to a can- Milcah Kerubo Miruka hopes to bring positive change in Kisii tween January 2000 and October 2002. Education committee of Gusii Culture didate with a wide range of experi- County through Deputy Governor’s position. Picture: Ben Oroko After rising through the ranks in and Development Council. She is also ence in public service. her teaching career to the position of an assistant secretary to the manage- Her past contributions to the com- senior principal, she was deployed to ment committee of the same council. During her campaigns, Miruka governor will focus on women’s em- munity is also an added advantage to Narok Teachers’ Training College as a She also served as a facilitator in promises to focus on gender parity in powerment through provision af- her candidature as much of her service Chief Principal where she served be- guidance and counselling as well as both access and continued provision fordable credits to women and youth was in the education sector where she tween November 2002 and October family planning teachers’ seminars of quality education to both boys and to enhance their potential in business invested much of her time producing 2008 from where she retired. organised by Kenya Education Staff girls. investments. human labour which has positively During her teaching career, Miru- Institute (KESI) in Nyanza Province. Miruka says her tenure as deputy Describing majority of the diseas- transformed the society. Pascalia Makonjio, youthful and raring to uplift Nambale

By Gilbert Ochieng she has been actively engaged in youth move- bale Health Centre. ment in the country. She observes that she has She notes the shortage Being a resident of an area where it was believed been able to sample the challenges they go of staff at Nambale Health that only the men could make good leaders, through which include poverty, lack of access Centre, a situation that she Pascalia Makonjio, the last born in a family of to education, unemployment and early mar- claims has been brought seven, has defied all odds to become the first riages as well as the effects of HIV and Aids. about by lack of concern woman to declare her bid to battle it out for the “My active involvement in decision mak- on the part of outgoing Nambale parliamentary seat. ing at various levels in society has given me leadership that has failed Under the New Ford Kenya ticket, Makon- the push to contest for the seat,” says Makon- to address the situation. jio hopes to win in the March 4 general elec- jio. She notes: “If I win I will ensure equal Makonjio says that tion. representation as far as development is con- most areas in the Con- Prior to joining the race for the Nambale cerned including in the creation of employ- stituency do not have safe parliamentary seat, Makonjio worked with vari- ment opportunities which would reduce the and clean water noting ous organisations namely GTZ, Rural Outreach current high levels of poverty.” that the boreholes that had Programme and K-REP bank as a researcher. been sunk with the Con- From 2002 to 2006, she worked as a youth leader Training stituency development in-charge of the larger Butere-Mumias District. Makonjio has also engaged in computer re- Fund had all dried up. She She was later elected youth coordinator for lated business for a period of eight years pro- says this has affected the Western Province. viding free training to Form Four school leav- residents forcing them to Pascalia Makonjio, youthful and ambitious woman is out During the same period she also served as ers. She has also offered employment to several walk long distance in search to prove that women can provide better leadership. a coordinator at the Young Women Institute youth after training. of the commodity. Picture :Gilbert Ochieng charged with the responsibility of coordinating Makonjio is focusing majorly on agri- activities of young women in Western Prov- culture considering that Busia County has Transport County, Makonjio attended Mutoma Primary ince. resources which include fertile land and ade- She notes that roads in the area are im- School before proceeding to Butere Girls’ High quate rainfall that could be utilised to address passable especially during the rainy season School in from 1991 to 1995. Opportunity food scarcity. making transportation of agricultural com- She justifies her quest for the Nambale par- “The appointments gave me the chance to On her agenda there are also issue to do modities to the markets a nightmare for the liamentary seat by saying that her rivals have serve in different development committees with health, water, infrastructure and security. residents. been offering empty pledges during cam- where I effectively championed the interest Makonjio says that if elected Nambale leg- Makonjio is also concerned with the secu- paigns. “The local leadership has failed to ad- of young people especially issues touching on islator, she will allocate funds from the Con- rity situation and says it needs to be addressed dress unemployment or empower the youth the welfare of women,” explains Makonjio, a stituency Development Fund kitty to facilitate urgently placing it among her top agenda. economically because they want to continue mother of three. construction of health centres to bring skilled “The residents of Nambale have been living manipulating them with every election for Makonjio exudes confidence saying if health care close to the people. She notes that in extreme fear of late due to insecurity,” says their personal political gain. I will change all elected Nambale Member of Parliament she scores of patients especially expectant moth- Makonjio. that if I am elected MP,” she says with deter- will deliver on her promises considering that ers are forced to travel long distance to Nam- Born on April 16, 1978 in Nambale, Busia mination. 10 Unfiltered, uninhibited…just the gruesome truth ISSUE 077, February 16-28, 2013 Rachael Dzombo A woman of many first seeks to make another history

By ADAM JUMA Through patience and persistence in a male dominated field, Dzombo emerged as a quali- She has been fearless in her campaigns in chal- fied budget and finance manager in all the min- lenging her male rivals and promises to give istries she worked in. She was the only finance them a tough time. officer in the civil service from the Coast Prov- “This is the time for the people of Kilifi South ince. to break the chain of male dominated politics In 1988 after a stiff competition with civil and vote women in to power who I believe will servants to qualify for the prestigious public change the face of politics in this constituency. service training in the US sponsored by the US- We want to have issue based politics and not AID, she emerged the best and got a chance to just mere talk,” says Rachel Dzombo who seeks travel for the training at the University of Con- to be the first woman Member of Parliament in necticut’s Institute of Public Service where she Kilifi County. enhanced her public service management skills. Dzombo is a woman of many firsts having With the blessings from her husband Nicho- been the first girl from the region to join high las Dzombo, she left behind a nine month-old school and also the first woman from Kilifi to son Samuel Kai, now 26, to advance her career. become permanent secretary. She now wants to In 1991, she was identified by Overseas make history once gain by being the first wom- Development Agency to study development an to be Member of Parliament for Kilifi South programmes in Britain, India, Thailand and Constituency. Singapore. Dzombo was born on September, 20, 1956 Dzombo later got an opportunity to train in at Kidutani Village, Chonyi Division in Kilifi management in Tokyo, Japan in 1996. In 2002 County. The seventh born in a family of 11 chil- she attended an outstanding performance man- dren, she thanks her parents for not discrimi- agement course at Witwatersrand University, nating against her. South Africa before training in strategic plan- ning under ESAMI in Swaziland. Discrimination 1n 2003-2004 she traversed East Africa to Dzombo went to school at a time when girls cover the Jua Kali/Nguvu Kazi programmes. at a time whne most parents did not value edu- After 23 years of exemplary service as a civil cating their daughters. However, her parents servant, the government of Kenya recognised supported her throughout, she is grateful to her outstanding performance and appointed them. her permanent secretary in the Ministry of Rachel Dzombo has been bold enough to try what many Coastal women would In 1965 she joined Kidutani Primary School Gender, Sports and Social Services in 2005. She not dare.This time she is determined to stop male dominance in Kilifi South and upon completion was admitted to St Johns became the first female permanent secretary constituency. Picture: Adam Juma Girls’ Secondary School. She was the only girl from Coast Province. from Kilifi to join Matuga Girl’s High School for She comfortably managed a staff of about two divisions of Kilifi South Constituency — visit other schools to learn some tips on how to her ‘A’ levels education in 1976 after emerging 5,000 in the ministry and represented the coun- Chonyi and Kikambala. perform well. the best girl in ‘O’ levels in 1975. try in many international forums as head of “The interventions by the government However, politics is not easy and she faces She passed her ‘A’ levels and earned an ad- delegation. sidelined some areas and gave more emphasis stiff competition from male counterparts who mission to the University of Nairobi in 1978 In the 2006-2007 financial year, her ministry to others. The projects by the NGOs lack sus- are also fighting to get a share of the women’s where graduated with Bachelor of Arts degree, was number one in the performance contract. tainability such that when the donor pulls out vote in the area. upper second class honours in 1981. “My work ethics was formed on six pillars; of the project then that particular project will Other aspirants in the seat include Ken Upon graduation, Dzombo joined the civil prayer, love, hard work, teamwork, humility stall,” she notes. Chonga of Shirikisho, immediate former Ba- service as an assistant secretary in 1982 after and understanding. These were the things that Dzombo has received a lot of support from hari MP Benedict Gunda of Chama Cha Uza- being interviewed by the Public Service Com- kept me going in my endeavours,” explains women’s groups which she played a key role in lendo (CCU), Victor Mwango of United Re- mission. Dzombo. forming and are now the driving force of her publican Party (URP), Mustapha Idd of Orange She worked in eight different government campaigns. Democratic Movement (ODM) and Nicholas ministries where she gained experience and ex- Interventions She has also made a great mark in the edu- Wanyepe of The Independent Party (TIP). posure on public service. The poverty index in Kilifi County that has cation sector in Chonyi Division where she “As an aspirant I have a challenge in the She was trained on administrative and man- been rated the poorest in Kenya propelled the has initiated an award for the best improved funding of my campaign budget, repairs of my agement skills at the Kenya Institute of Admin- government and other NGO’s to put some in- school in the area and the best performing old vehicles and operating the campaign strat- istration (KIA). Through these trainings, she terventions to address the problem. candidate. egy. These are the issues that I am currently gained knowledge on development skills for Her interest in politics, she says, was driven She also initiated a benchmarking pro- fighting with but I am sure I will be able to over- senior women managers. by the highest number of poverty index in the gramme where schools from Chonyi division come them,” she notes. Mary Kanana Nteere seeks to strengthen the family unit By Martin Murithi vice, she has initiated many develop- She later went to The University of ment projects and confirms that she Nairobi and studied Marketing. Al- The Parliamentary position in has laid down a strong foundation for though she secured permanent em- Meru has attracted only three women continuing with the agendas already ployment, she has also been engaging after other eligible politicians who put in place. in doing family business. could have vied for the position scam- Of essence is her achievement in Nteere who will be facing it off pered to crowd in the newly created promoting education where for the with seven men in the race, says she position of women representative last 10 years she has supplied more is proud of her family which has been seat. than 100 schools in the constituency supportive of her campaigns. Buuri constituency, a new con- with end term examinations. She targets to improve the road stituency has attracted two women in “I have offered all these schools network in the constituency which the race and Mary Kanana Nteere is with examinations and this has en- she says is in a pathetic state. one of them. abled our constituency to improve “Our roads are bad, infrastructure Nteere who is vying on the Alli- greatly in national performance. We is underdeveloped and I know what ance Party of Kenya ticket is currently expect this year after the rankings are needs to be done for the constituency the Party’s women leader and also sits done we will have improved further,” to compete fairly with other regions in its national governing committee. she says. because it’s the least developed in Having been on the campaign trail Nteere who considers herself a Meru County,” she says. for the last eight months, Nteere re- woman of development began her She notes that the constituency quests all voters in the constituency to education in Kigane Primary School lacks enough hospitals and those in vote for a leader who is development and later joined Materi Girls’ School place lack enough equipment and conscious. Mary Kanana gearing up to be the Member of Parliament Buuri before joining Kaaga Girls’ High medication to treat the sick. Having been in community ser- constituency. Picture: Martin Muriithi. School. Continued on page 12 ISSUE 077, February 16-28, 2013 Unfiltered, uninhibited…just the gruesome truth 11 It has been a long road travelled for Jennifer Masis

By GEORGE OMONSO legitimate, we are a marginalized community. Mt Elgon is the only region in Kenya with no When Jennifer Masis recently lost her bid for roads,” she explains. a seat in the East Africa Legislative Assem- “The region also performs the worst in the bly (EALA) by seven votes, many thought the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education dim- Trans Nzoia women’s rights activist had ended ming any chances of a better future for our chil- her political career and crusade for elective dren. However, violence was not going to make leadership. our lives better,” Masis reiterates. However, this was not the end of the road It forced her to approach the elders, propos- for Masis who is set to face a group of male as- ing to them the need to set up of peace com- pirants for the Endebess Parliamentary in Trans mittees. Nzoia County in the 2013 General Election. “Elders are key to the initiation and success After losing the East Africa Legislative As- of any process in my community. It is through sembly seat to Patrick Mutuku, with whom she them that I communicated with Sabaot Land holds membership in Wiper Democratic Party, Defence Force,” Masis explains. Masis is sure that no man will beat her in the “With the help of the then District Commis- competition for the Endebess parliamentary sioners in Trans Nzoia West, Kwanza and Mt El- seat, a new constituency which she is aspiring gon, I managed to get the Ministry of Internal to capture through Ford Kenya Party. Security to develop amnesty letters that would A fearless Masis says: “I was born and be given to members of this terror group in ex- brought up in Endebess and I am ready to battle change for firearms.” it out.” This happened between 2005 and 2007. This will be her third attempt at elective elec- Meanwhile, she continued with her work of de- tions having contested Kwanza constituency in nouncing FGM as well as working with women 2002 and 2007, losing it to the incumbent For- organisations such as the Rural Women Peace estry and Wildlife Minister Dr Noah Wekesa. Link and the Caucus for Women’s Leadership The Endebess seat is among the new 80 to build the capacity of women for them to constituencies that have been created in the break out of their cocoons. just-concluded delimitations of electoral parliamentary and civic boundaries by the Achievements Independent Electoral and Boundaries Com- Masis has been sitting in boards of various mission (IEBC). It was shelved off Kwanza organisations among them the Betting Control Constituency. and Licencing Board under the office of the Masis will face off a team of male rivals Vice President between 2009- and 2012. She was who include Dr Nathan Psiwa, Dr Robert Po- forced to resign to pursue her political ambi- kose, former nominated MP Samuel Moiben, tions. She is also a board member of the Centre former Kitale Mayor Joshua Werunga and En- for Multi-Party Democracy (CMD). However, gineer Richard Chesebe. this organisation has not stopped her from be- ing part of it even as she ventures into elective Competition politics. According to Pokose who spoke on behalf Even as she seeks the Endebess seat, Masis of the men, they are welcoming women par- know that the journey to get a nomination tick- ticipation in Endebess for a competitive and et is not easy. She recalls when she was denied healthy voting. “We are ready to face her,” an opportunity to represent her people in 2002 said Pokose. even after having presented her certificate to Having been brought up in Endebess, Ma- the Electoral Commission of Kenya. sis is familiar with the terrain. “I understand “I immersed myself into the world of poli- the challenges facing the local communities tics and in 2002 ran for a parliamentary seat in and that is why I have chosen to represent Kwanza Constituency.” them to the authorities through the National It is an experience that the mother of five Assembly,” Masis says. She reiterates: “I also will never forget. “In spite of the great support want to unite and bring them under one um- I enjoyed form key players, my family, elders brella of peace, prosperity and development.” and supporters, the road to the election date Jennifer Masis ,candidate Member of Parliament Endebess Parliamentary seat on Masis cites road network, resettlement of was marred with threats and intimidation,” she the landless and squatters, colonial displace- Ford Kenya Party. Picture: George Omonso explains. ments, forests evictions, improved education She adds: “I was subjected to all manner of and social economic entrepreneurship as some votes to the losing side,” she says. that education had improved me, made me a abuses. I was even told that 14 youths would be of areas that provoked her to seek political rep- Born in the Sabaot community, Masis comes different person,” Masis explains. sent to rape me. But even these insults meant to resentation in parliament. from a background where girls’ education has Masis also played a major role in rewriting deface me as a woman did not discourage me A strong advocate for women’s rights, Ma- not been given importance. However, she was of the new Constitution and during the Consti- from what I had set out to do. I kept going and sis fought for the affirmative action that is en- lucky to have had a father who educated both tutional reform process talks held at the Bomas even won the party nomination on a KANU trenched in the new Constitution. boys and girls alike. of Kenya, she was at the forefront. ticket.” As an executive member of the Maendeleo In Bomas she was given a decision making All seemed to work in her favour. She even ya Wanawake Organisation (MYWO) Masis Luck position as chair of the Transitional and Conse- presented her papers to the Electoral Commis- will be joining other women aspirant eyeing Masis went to Kebee Primary School and then quential Committee. In this position she was in sion, but little did she know that this was the various seats within the Trans Nzoia County joined Kibuk Girls’ Secondary School where she a position to give insights to the talks based on beginning of the end. where leadership has been male dominated. studies from Form One to Four. She later joined her experience. Breaking away from the tradition where Lugulu Girls’ High School for her ‘A’ Levels. This was also a defining moment for her Interest women have shied away from contesting elective After Lugulu she was employed by the Ke- because in 2005, a fierce fire had begun in her “I received a phone call soon after that the posts, the women have vowed to compete with nya Posts and Telecommunication Corpora- community, in the name of a militia group that party’s executive had decided that they were men for the seats of MP, Senate and County tion. It was here that she developed an interest took root in the Sabaot community reigning not interested in women’s leadership and that representative apart from their selected women in accounts and through the Kenya College of terror and havoc in her people. the number two at the party nomination would representative’s position. Communications and Technology (KCCT) she “The Sabaot Land Defence Force (SLDF) take my place,” Masis explains. No woman showed interest for the gover- was able to study all the four stages of the Certi- begun making its presence felt and there was “I was very surprised but stood my ground nor’s position that attracted the largest num- fied Public Accountant (CPA) courses. a lot of violence. In deed their grievances were until I received another phone call from one ber of candidates who include Wekesa of She worked at KPTC between 1990-1996 of the most powerful politicians who did not ODM, Patrick Khaemba (Ford Kenya), busi- and joined Jomo Kenya College for Agricul- mince his words. He said that not only was he nessmen Joel Gesuka (TNA) and Kakai Bisau ture and Technology to graduate with a Di- not interested in women’s leadership but re- (New Ford Kenya). ploma in Community Development and Hu- “Elders are key to the minded me that I was young at 32 and I had an Having been the Maendeleo ya Wanawake man Resource. She then went ahead to build entire future to pursue my dream.” chairperson in the county, Masis also steered her computer skills through the DALC Edu- initiation and success of any The nomination certificate was given to Trans Nzoia Agricultural Society of Kenya cation institute. She then went ahead to study somebody else even though it rightfully be- (ASK) shows to greater heights of develop- for her Bachelor of Art in Community Devel- process in my community. longed to her. She took the matter to court but ment. opment from DALC and graduated in 2011. the Electoral Commission had already com- “I have no doubt I know all the corners It is through this course that she developed a It is through them that I pleted its work of receiving papers from aspi- where the votes are,” Masis who will this time passion for community work. Upon graduating, rants. This action shut her out completely. around be vying for the Endebess seat on Ford she became very vocal in encouraging her com- communicated with Sabaot She notes that even this time around she Kenya ticket. munity to give the girl child an opportunity to will fight to the last man standing. “Though the “I am leaving no chance to anyone. My re- go to school. Land Defence Force.” field is big and wide, I have prepared enough cord stands for itself and rest assured Trans “It was not easy but it had to be done. Wom- — Jennifer Masis to face the men of all qualities and experience,” Nzoia men and women will hate the cast their en were very supportive because they could see says Masis. 12 Unfiltered, uninhibited…just the gruesome truth ISSUE 077, February 16-28, 2013 Jebii Kilimo takes on another gamble ignoring party wave in Rift Valley

By Ray Limo An assistant minister Co-operative Development, she says her people Linah Jebii Kilimo is arguably the know what she has done in the area. only if not one among the few wom- Asked whether she fears that the en who have made a mark in Marak- influence of Ruto and URP could af- wet politics in a short time. fect her, Kilimo said: “Let the people Traditionally, politics in the decide and I will respect their will.” Kalenjin land was a preserve for men Interestingly, even in 2007, Ruto but Kilimo defied the odds to be- was behind the wave in ODM but come the first woman MP for Mara- overcame the euphoria that van- kwet East Constituency. quished some of the MPs in the re- Kilimo who was a banker re- gion. signed and gave a shot at the murky She maintains that her leadership career. She was first elected to Par- over the last ten years in Marakwet liament in 2002 under Narc ticket “speaks for itself” citing her efforts despite the fact that Rift Valley was to restore security in the once volatile predominantly in Kanu. region where cattle rustling and ban- In the 2007, she repeated the ditry was rampant. Jebii Kilimo is confident that she has her peoples’ support and same feat when she was re-elected and the neighbouring communities. on a Kenda party ticket despite a Strength can win through any party despite what is deemed to be the Apart from addressing insecurity current trend. Picture: Ray Limo strong ODM wave in the region. Kilimo, a no nonsense politician problem in the area, Kilimo is also Kilimo was elected to Parliament is set to be URP’s additional head- steering the anti-female genital mu- road until the Kibaki government She has been burning the mid- on a Kenda ticket but was declared ache in the North Rift as it whips tilation campaigns in Marakwet. that tarmacked a section of it. night oil to ensure hundreds of squat- partyless by the Registrar of Political the region to support Ruto’s political She introduced the FGM Bill Though Kilimo’s opponents bank ters who were evicted from Embobut Parties after it failed to fulfil the re- aspirations. 2010 that outlined strict legislations on her inability to implement edu- Forest are resettled as well as secure quirements of the Political Parties Act. Her defection seems to have which has now seen the practice de- cation to the letter during her two employment for a number of youth. Her constituents advised her to given energy to other leaders in the cline with overall prevalence reduc- terms in Parliament, she believes she And despite all these, her political defend the parliamentary seat in region who defied the Ruto and URP ing significantly. has helped uplift its standards espe- comeback would not be a walk in the the next elections on a The National wave to remain in the Orange Demo- The new law seeks to prohibit the cially education of the girl-child. park as youthful politicians are mak- Alliance Party after they were short- cratic Movement (ODM). practice safeguard against violation Her political opponents opposed ing a plot to end the career. changed in United Republican Party. This is why it will be interesting to of a person’s mental or physical in- her running for office on the grounds She would also have to grapple see how Ruto will manage the divid- tegrity through the practice and for that she had not been circumcised with last year’s National Taxpayers Allegations ed North Rift political house as the connected purposes. and so was not fit to hold public office. Association (NTA) report that rated However, URP dismissed the alle- 2013 General Elections inch closer. Kilimo seeks to improve overall her constituency among the poor gations as fabrications that the party Kilimo’s campaigns focuses on a infrastructure in the area which had Projects performers in terms of CDF manage- hoodwinked her and insisted she left number of issues some of which she been overlooked by successive gov- While at the helm of Co-Opera- ment. after she was denied the direct nomi- initiated and seeks to implement them ernment administrations since inde- tive Ministry, her critics say she has Though she dismissed the report, nation she had sought. in the next government should the pendence. done little to secure market for farm- it disclosed that close to KSh16 mil- “Like in 2002 and 2007, I contest- constituents give her another chance. It is undoubtedly true that the ers to cushion them from incurring lion of the funds cannot be accounted ed on parties chosen by the constitu- The 50-year-old mother of five larger Marakwet is the only district in huge losses year-in-year out. for and or were allocated to ghost ents. I have to listen to them and run has been instrumental in bringing a Rift Valley that had no single tarmac on a TNA,” she said. lasting peace between the Marakwet However, the MP maintains that projects. Kilimo believes that electorate she seeks another term to implement The race is crowded with poten- in Marakwet East elect performing some of her remaining projects even tial candidates keen to capture the leaders and not parties. This perhaps “Like in 2002 and 2007, I contested on parties as she advised her people to make in- seat though Kilimo says she has al- could be the reason behind her suc- formed decisions. ready sharpened her arsenal ready cess in politics. chosen by the constituents. I have to listen to Kilimo, who is an alumni of State to face the opponents at the ballot. Kilimo believes that she is an MP House Girls’ High School, holds a Many are would be keeping an as a calling, whether there will be a them and run on a TNA.” Bachelor’s degree in Community De- eye on how Kilimo would be fairing political wave or not in the expansive velopment from the Kenya Method- on with her challengers come the Rift Valley which URP stronghold. — Linah Jebii Kilimo ist University. historic elections on March 4. Nteere seeks to strengthen the family unit Continued from page 10 might remain in the same position liance Party of Kenya counterparts the family by working with women notes: “We want every one of them With case examples of Kithithina and what we need is a visionary lead- Kiraitu Murungi (Senator) and Pe- whom are the backbone of society. to be productive and avoid those and Maritati dispensaries, Nteere er who is people oriented, who has ter Munya (Governor), the large idle “Kenya is made of a family with- who just idle. Everybody has a re- says past leadership has failed to the feelings of the people at heart, tracts of land in the constituency will out which there would be no nation. sponsibility in this society and what engage with the residents in agenda compassionate and mindful of edu- be turned into a food basket for the Without women no society can de- I want is to exploit that and improve drafting to prioritise their major cation matters,” observes Nteere. Meru County and feed the upcom- velop. Women are in all sectors of their lives.” needs. The constituency is currently ing Isiolo resort city. development and they run the day She also calls upon every leader She gives an example of two dis- facing acute water shortage despite She hopes to guide in proper land to day affairs of the nation,” she says. seeking an elective position to be- pensaries which were constructed in having vast landscape which could management where she will seek Her leadership will be consider- have responsibly and promote peace 2004 and completed in 2009 but have easily offer an easier way of tapping to have all outstanding disputes re- ing the key factor of a developed so- in their campaigns. She urges them never served the community. water runoffs to big dams and in solved by fastening the process of ciety which is tapping into the youth to avoid using the young people by turn facilitate irrigation in the dry land ownership documents. who have diverse abilities that can buying them alcohol to chant their Understanding zones. generate wealth for the constitu- slogans but instead engage them in Nteere has interacted with the Nteere says she will seek to en- Agriculture ency. positive activities. community immensely and knows courage residents to tap all water in According to Nteere, this will “Besides, the youth will be a key “We want a united Buuri Con- what needs to be done for the con- their households in tanks and small help residents to fully exploit their factor in leadership where we will stituency, leaders should not split stituency to be comparatively com- water pans which can help them potential without fear or threats of work as a team by identifying vari- our society because they will need it petitive to attract local and interna- conduct small irrigation projects in being vacated in future. ous responsibilities where they will even after the elections. We need to tional investors. their households. Considering the family bond- be responsible for steering our eco- ask ourselves where we will be after “Without good leadership we Once elected alongside her Al- age strength, she seeks to empower nomic activities,” says Nteere. She the elections,” she said. ISSUE 077, February 16-28, 2013 Unfiltered, uninhibited…just the gruesome truth 13

It doesn’t matter who you are, or where you came “You may be disappointed if you fail, but you are from. The ability to triumph begins with you. Always.” doomed if you don’t try.” – Oprah Winfrey – Beverly Sills Woman aspirant has the solutions to Budalangi problems By LEONARD ACHARRY in Busia County and also the only Master of Science degree in Infor- woman vying for the hotly contest- mation Systems Management at Voters in Budalangi Constituen- ed seat. the University of Liverpool, in the cy, better known for its perennial Her rivals are Water development United Kingdom. flooding problem than anything minister, Raphael Wanjala, under The parliamentary candidate is else, have a new entrant to the UDF party, and Engineer David an expert in community develop- crowded race. Achoka of Ford Kenya. ment and gender training and has Constantine Obuya Ogunga has Indeed, as majority of politicians worked as the Chief Executive Offi- her eyes on the parliamentary seat were scrambling for party tickets cer of the African Centre for Wom- whose outgoing holder is Sports to sponsor them for the forthcom- en, Information and Communi- minister, Ababu Namwamba, who ing polls; Ogunga had no worry cations Technology (ACWICT), is defending it on an ODM ticket. and went on with her plans on how a technical body that is expert on If elected, she has promised to clinch the Budalangi seat. ICT for development and gender work closely with the Government She is vying for the hotly contest- in Africa. and foreign partners to address the ed seat as an independent candidate In addition to her impressive problem of floods emanating from which she believes will enable her academic and professional back- Nzoia River once and for all. get to Parliament. ground and world of experience, Most Kenyan are used to seeing she is widely travelled, participating news stories on television of flood Qualifications in information society and ICT for victims in Budalangi constituency, Ogunga holds a diploma in development forums. year in year out, after the banks of Computer Science the Kenya Poly- “With all this experience, I know River Nzoia burst, forcing water technic She has also pursued ad- that I am the best candidate for into the homes of the helpless resi- vanced courses in Information the seat and I hope to go through,” dents. Technology from the Institute Ogunga says with confidence.” Ogunga has made history by be- of Data Processing Management If elected, she will focus her en- ing the first independent candidate (UK). She is currently pursuing her ergy to coming up projects to em- power youth and women, who she says their plight are due to lack of “Our people have remained poor for a long good leadership and proper plan- Constantine Obuya Ogunga believes she can make a great ning. difference in the lives of Budalangi residents if elected. time and nobody has cared about them. I have The CEO also plans to initiate Picture: Correspondent development projects that will help decided that I will help them and ensure they locals boost their incomes in busi- for a long time and nobody has cared been criss-crossing the constitu- ness; expand their competitiveness about them. I have decided that I will ency which borders Lake Victoria, are uplifted.” in the labour market and support help them and ensure they are uplift- addressing issues that resonate with agricultural productivity in the area. ed,” Ogunga says. the ordinary villagers in the vast — Constantine Obuya Ogunga “Our people have remained poor The soft spoken IT expert has constituency. Psychologist joins race for Taita Taveta women’s rep race By BENSON MWANGA Making her debut into the murky world of College, in Eldoret, and obtained a Certificate in politics, Nyambu says she is confident of clinch- Nursing and a diploma in Clinical Medicine at Voters in Taita-Taveta County will be spoilt for ing the seat by virtue of having helped scores of Port Reiz College in Mombasa. choice for a women’s representative as they cast men and women secure admission at the various The psychiatrist crowned her academic pur- their votes next month. medical colleges and get jobs in various institu- suit with a degree in Psychology and Counsel- One of the candidates is Anna Nyambu, who tions where she worked. ling from the University of Nairobi. is vying under a United Republican Party (URP) “I believe that I am the best suited to ad- She also holds a diploma in Public Health ticket is fondly referred to as “a woman of the dress the high unemployment rate among the and Epidemiology from the Kenya Medical people” by her supporters and admirers because youth, if elected,” she says. Training College, in Nairobi. She is now pursu- of her generosity and development record. ing a Masters degree in Public Health. The County, in Coast province, is made up Failed leadership The 52-year old politician has actively par- of four constituencies, namely Mwatate, Taveta, The soft spoken psychologist is a former em- ticipated in various national activities aimed at Voi and Wundanyi. ployer of East African Portland Cement Com- improving development in the country. The most visible woman candidate in the pany among other firms where she has worked After leaving Portland, she decided to pursue County is Dr Naomi Shabaan, the Minister for in the past three decades. greener pastures by engaging in business and Gender, Children and Social Development, who Asked why she decided to plunge into poli- politics. Nyambu has been conducting HIV/ is vying for the Member of National Assembly tics, Nyambu says it was because she had re- Aids awareness campaigns including providing Position. alised that there was a vacuum as far as leader- guidance and counselling to the youth in and Another prominent woman in the County is ship was concerned. outside the County. former Central Bank Deputy Governor, Jacinta According to her, Taita Taveta County’s cur- She blames infighting among local leaders as Mwatela, who is vying for the powerful office of rent crops of leaders have failed to aggressively the cause of underdevelopment and rising pov- the County Governor against nine men. articulate and address pertinent issues affecting erty in the region. Her husband, Calestus Mwatela, is the out- the local community in national forums. According to the candidate, 66 percent of going MP for Mwatate and Education Assistant “For many years, leadership has been a pre- the local population in the County are living minister. serve of men, but now many women are com- below the poverty line yet it is endowed with In the race for the women’s representative, peting with them in elective positions in the enormous resources like minerals, water and Nyambu has endeared herself to the electorate March 4 general elections,” she says. wildlife. well. Nyambu believes she is the best candidate “It is an irony that our County is the third Many people interviewed say they love her having been born and raised in the County in most endowed in the country, but third below because she fulfils what she says. Mwanda location, Wundanyi division. in terms of poverty. A large population is also “I made sure that the few positions I served She attended Muanda and Mulamba Pri- living as squatters on their own land,” she la- in benefited the local mary Schools then went to mented. community in areas of Matuga Girls High School If elected, Nyambu says she will strive to training and employ- “I believe that I am the best suited to address the high in neighbouring Kwale unite local residents and leaders for faster de- ment. I tried my best to County between 1977- velopment assist the poor to access unemployment rate among the youth, if elected.” 1980. “We must ensure that our people are em- education and health,” She was later admitted powered economically but that we also go ahead she says. — Anna Nyambu at Kenya Medical Training to improve their livelihood,” she says. 14 Unfiltered, uninhibited…just the gruesome truth ISSUE 077, February 16-28, 2013 Coast is all out for peaceful elections Outlawed By YUSUF AMIN tees would conclusively address the pending and emerging land disputes that have for many sect The Truth Justice and Reconciliation Commis- decades been triggers of violence, conflicts in sion (TJRC) has laid down strategies on how to the region would be solved. maintain peace in the General Election espe- “People in the county should not be swayed regroups cially at the Coast where acts of violence and by groups that are advocating for cession of the insecurity have been previously experienced. region since the Commission has promised to The Commission is cooperating with the tackle our problems through recommenda- head ahead district peace committees across the country so tions to the Government,” Mangi urged. that people may be informed on how to avoid He asked political leaders to cooperate with conflict during campaigns and on the election the voters to conduct relevant peace activities of polls day. targeting credible, inclusive fair and peacefully Addressing a District Peace Committee in election. By ALLAN MURIMI Kilifi County recently the commission, Tecla Harold Mwatua, chairman Bahari District Namachanja, the Commission’s Vice-Chair Peace Committee said they were already con- Some members of the outlawed Mungiki reiterated the organisation’s dedication to solv- ducting peace missions meant to avert vio- sect in Nyeri are an unhappy lot due to in- ing over 5,000 cases of historical injustices that lence. fighting among them. have been faced by coastal people since inde- Mwatua noted that their main challenge The infighting targets those who defect- pendence. was lack of funds which would facilitate their ed and are willing to rejoin the sect attack- Namachanja said that most of the historical movement to remote areas where politicians ing those who do not want. injustices that are being handled were related Tecla Namachanja, Chairperson TJRC are vigorously conducting campaigns. Former sect members are complaining of to land, low education, marginalisation, sex Kenya. Picture: Courtesy Speaking to journalists at Mkoroshoni Vil- being harassed and or beaten by others. Ad- tourism and drugs among other problems. lage in Kilifi town, Harriet Osimbo, an official dressing the media, the youth have threat- She expressed concerns that the squatter is- ing in harmony with other communities. of Ujamaa Centre said her organisation in ened to form a vigilante group and revenge sue in the region was one of the sensitive mat- Farah reiterated that an environment that conjunction with more than 15 organisations claiming several of them have been attacked ters that the Commission was on the run to has no peace may lead the region in extreme under Tuvuke Peace Initiative were working at with crude weapons. ensure it was tackled with speed. poverty since the business, agricultural and creating awareness on free, fair and peaceful “We are planning to attack Mungiki “The cases are being investigated by the tourism sectors will be affected. elections. members if the Government does not take Commission in order to act on them and bring The Commission urged Kenyans to be pa- She reiterated the importance of the Gov- any action,” said Ephantus Mwangi, a self- justice to the people who were affected,” said tient and wait for the report of the historical ernment to resolving land problems in the re- confessed former Mungiki member. Mwan- Namachanja. injustices that will be release on May 4. gion so that area residents could acquire title gi said there are some youth who had been It also noted that it would make visits to deeds. injured in attacks by some of the sect’s mem- Solution all counties so that it can lay down measures Women leaders in Kilifi County led by bers. She noted with concern that solving the to engage the communities in peace initiatives. Maendeleo ya Wanawake Vice Chairperson Area police boss, Kirunya Limbitu, said cases would also enhance peace in the region. Esha Said asked the African Woman and Child two youth had been injured and the police She asked coastal people to be patient as the Awareness Feature Service and other organisations to con- had not taken any action. “There is noth- cases they filed with the Commission were be- On behalf of the district peace committees duct civic education to women on how they ing we can do because one youth who was ing handled. Reverend Fred Mangi chairman Kaloleni Dis- could enhance peace in the region. assaulted picked a P3 form but he has not She called on all political leaders in the trict Peace Committee, emphasised the need Said noted that women can play a big role in filled it. The other one is still in hospital and region to reiterate peace especially when ad- for more civic education on peace. peace building since they take many responsi- has not picked a form,” noted Limbitu. dressing campaign rallies. The participants noted that if the commit- bilities in their families. The Commission called upon local She asked the provincial admin- Assault political and religious leaders to coop- istration to cooperate with women so He said the police was waiting for the erate with youth groups and other or- “The cases are being investigated by that politicians preaching hatred can youth to fill the forms before investigations ganisations that preach peace so that be charged before the law. could start. Mohamed Kaburu, a former coastal communities can elect leaders the Commission in order to act on Kilifi County Supkem chairman Mungiki member, said he was assaulted by peacefully to enhance good leader- Bakari Ali Nassib said that they were active members of the sect on New Year’s ship in the county governments. them and bring justice to the people preaching peace in mosques so that the Eve outside a bar in Ruring’u Estate. Commissioner Ahmed Farah who coming elections could be peaceful. “Two men who are still members of was at the meeting urged district who were affected.” “We are targeting the youth since Mungiki came looking for me and said they peace committees to sensitise people — Tecla Namachanja they are the ones who are used by poli- wanted me back. When I told them that I in the region on the importance of liv- ticians to cause violence,” noted Nassib. would never return, they started beating me up,” Kaburu explained. They claimed that they abandoned the sect after their former leader Maina Njenga asked them to dissolve but there are those who are Voters at the Coast warming up to polls now forcing them to rejoin the group. Meanwhile, Osman Githaiga, a motor By REJECT should go away in peace as added: “The MRC seems to bike taxi rider said he was attacked on New CORRESPONDENT Coast will not participate have realised that to fight Year’s Eve and beaten by the sect members in the elections,” said one well is to be in the system who wanted him back. He said that a gang Election fever has gripped councillor while several oth- and fight within.” of about 20 people found him as he was get- Coast Province, just like ers claimed they had been She observed that the ting out of a bar in Nyeri town and started in other parts of the coun- forced out in some areas. peace committees formed beating him up. try. Even some die hard in collaboration with Na- Githaiga recognised five as Mungiki officials and members of Support tional Cohesion and In- members in the mob which destroyed his the outlawed Mombasa However, according to tegration Commission motorcycle and robbed him of his day’s Republican Council, who Rashid Mraja MRC spokes- (NCIC) will be monitor- earnings. had threatened to mobilise person those who were ing events closely. members to boycott the asking candidates to leave Rashid Mraja, MRC spokesman with some Coast However, according to Reformed polls have since seen the were not MRC members residents. Picture: Courtesy Nicholas Zani, who is vy- “They want us to follow the sect rules light are either campaign- but supported their cause of ing for a senatorial posi- where we are not supposed to take beer so ing as candidates or party not going to elections. However, currently some locals from Ng’ombeni tion, credit goes to some that they can take us back, but we are re- officials. Others are waiting “We are not only saying things seem to have did not know who would politicians who convinced formed and want nothing to do with them,” to cast their vote to elect that people should not vote changed. Vehicles blazing be their leaders as most as- the members to drop their said Githaiga. leaders of their choice. but that election should not with loud music and road pirants had kept out of the slogans and give county The outlawed sect has had a difficult time This is in contrast to take place here,” he said then. shows are streaming the area due to the threats. Governments a chance to recruiting new members and is now going a few months ago when Most affected areas were areas with most of those be- address injustices. after those that defected. most parts of Matuga and Ng’ombeni, Waa, Kombani, lieved to be die hard mem- Change “It is not by default or The sect has been tried recruiting new Msambweni constituencies Tiwi and Ukunda. bers offering a hand in cam- According to Amina by design but we have tried members in central region and has fought in Kwale County were a no Voter’s registration was paigning for their favourite Soud, IEBC South Coast to talk to their leaders that with vigilantes in Nyeri and Kirinyaga go zone for most aspirants also affected with both candidates as well as putting Coordinator the threats devolution is offering a Counties. who were being told in staff and the electorate be- banners and posters or even have reduced but they are chance for self-governance In October last year, the sect members the face never to carry out ing threatened not to par- offering security services. keeping vigil. “The big issue and that we should give it from Karatina in Nyeri County fought with campaign in the area of the ticipate. There were on the Among those associated in Kwale has been MRC but a try and decide later,” ex- the vigilantes in Kibirigwi. Matatu opera- County that were perceived lookout for those going to with MRC is Hatibu Mjaka now it has subsided and we plained Zani. He added: tors in Nyeri town have also expressed fears to be Mombasa Republi- the polling centres. There Mtengo who was the organ- are seeing them as part of us. “They are now n waiting over the re-emergence of the outlawed sect can Council (MRC) strong were also claims of people isation’s Secretary General In some areas it is not heard to see how things will turn around the bus terminus. holds. being threatened that their and is vying for Msambweni of and some of their mem- out. If the leadership will The sect members have taken over most “I had gone to ask them houses would be burn Parliamentary seat on a bers have voters’ cards while be bad and the money does of the matatu stages and are extorting mon- for their votes but they said should they associate with KADDU-ASILI ticket. others have been cleared to not trickle down here then ey from the operators as they regroup. that they respect me and elections. Just about a month ago vie,” explained Soud. She it will be rough.” ISSUE 077, February 16-28, 2013 Unfiltered, uninhibited…just the gruesome truth 15 Breaking the culture of ethnic hostility in Kenya By ODHIAMBO ORLALE

The role of the over 96 licensed radio stations in promoting national unity and patriotism will be put to test dur- ing the on-going campaign period before the General Election. Indeed, radio is the most popular and acces- sible medium in Kenya with 95 per cent of Kenyans listening to it regular- ly. Nairobi has the lion’s share of FM stations standing at 46. This comes in the backdrop of the 2007-2008 polls and post-elections violence which was blamed on incitement and hate- speech by politicians and some media houses, especially vernacular radio stations. About 1,300 people were killed and over 600,000 displaced in Mom- basa, Nairobi, Naivasha, Nakuru, Eldoret and Kisumu among other hotspots during the height of the vio- lence that followed the disputed pres- idential elections pitting supporters of President Mwai Kibaki and ODM leader, Raila Odinga. Since then, a journalist, Joshua Sang of KASS FM is among four Kenyans facing charges of crimes against humanity at The Hague in The Netherlands. Speakers at a Media Roundtable in Nairobi. The media has been accused of promoting hostility by use of divisive words. Picture: Suspects Odhiambo Orlale. The others are Deputy Prime were invited to share their profes- is disconnect between how we cover tiality was a challenge in a case where about the difference between ver- Minister, Uhuru Kenyatta, outgo- sional experiences with the audience news and the reality. Most journalists the owner of the media house was a nacular (private) and community ing Eldoret North MP, William Ruto at Alliance Francaise Auditorium in lack ethical standards while on the politician and had taken a stand on a FM stations which have no advertise- and former Head of the Civil Service Nairobi during the monthly event. other hand the owner of the station specific issue and demanded that it be ments and are funded by donors to Francis Muthaura. Unifying tool interferes openly by twisting news covered according to his wish. give voice and faces to local issues in Uhuru and Ruto are in the presi- Some of the major issues that stories according to his or her wish.” “Why are our watchdog institu- the targeted areas. dential race on a Jubilee Alliance came up were that the vernacular She also blamed the misuse of tions not working?” Musau asked. “NCIC emphasises on individual ticket, as presidential candidate and stations should be used as a unify- vernacular FM stations by politicians Content crisis responsibility from day one. We must running mate. ing and not divisive tool as we head who take advantage of the poorly It is in view of these concerns that promote our values, patriotism and It was with that in mind that the towards the General Election. Other trained and poorly remunerated jour- Nguku revealed that she had also no- unity through legislation and effec- Media Focus on Africa and several issues were concern about abuse of nalists to intimidate and compromise ticed what she described as “a content tive use of the media,” Lwanga noted. partners organised a public forum office by some politicians who own them. crisis in the media”. This is a situation On the way forward, Njogu pro- dubbed Kenya Media Roundtable to media houses and use them to cam- where the audience demands to talk posed that all vernacular FM sta- discuss the role of vernacular radio paign for themselves and their polit- Culprits about their issues and not of the me- tions should be encouraged to have stations in breaking the culture of ical parties; lack of professionalism Training institutions were also dia owner. a 40 minute segment every day on ethnic hostility in the country. Three by FM station reporters and present- not left off the hook, with claims that Nguku says that when she left Kiswahili news and call-in session to panellists included Millie Lwanga ers as well as poor regulation of the some of them offer courses which last KTN a decade ago to start her own promote the national language and vice-chairperson National Cohesion mostly privately owned vernacular for as short as three months. vernacular FM station, she knew nationalism. and Integration Commission, Chris- FM stations by the Communications Another challenge was how to what she wanted but over the years “All local languages are protected tine Nguku chairperson of Alterna- Commission of Kenya and the Me- draw a line and balance between what she realised that professionalism was and treated equally under the new tive Media Network and General dia Council. the communities want and what the not respected by many Kenyan lead- Constitution, what you should put in Manager of Sifa FM and Prof Kimani According to Terry Musau from media owners want to be highlighted ers, readers, listeners and viewers. a language is what can unite and not Njogu, Kiswahili scholar and direc- one of the vernacular FM stations: in the station. However, according to Lwanga divide us as a nation using the media,” tor of Twaweza Communications “We lack professionalism and there Another participant said impar- there is need to educate the public Njogu reiterated. Share intelligence on Rhinos, countries asked By ALLAN MURIMI rica adding that the killing of wildlife is being proposal to the next CITES COP 16 to con- driven by an increased demand in the south sider placing a temporary halt on exportation An international wildlife conservation group eastern Asia countries. of hunted trophies. has challenged countries where rhino poach- Forestry and Wildlife minister Noah He noted the proposal will have implica- ing has escalated to share their intelligence to Wekesa admitted that weak legislation has tions in the hunting industry but asked coun- curb the trend. played a key role in enhancing the killing of tries that allow hunting as a sport to support it International Union for Conservation of rhinos and elephants in the country. to save the rhinos and seal loopholes for legal Nature (IUCN), Species Survival Commis- “Sophistication of wildlife crimes and in- trophies supplying an illegal market. sion (SSC) and Africa Rhino Specialist Group adequate human, financial and technological KWS senior assistant director in charge of said the trend will be reduced through inter- resources and in some instances weak wildlife species management and conservation Patrick governmental sharing of intelligence. legislation have led to increase in poaching,” Omondi said killing poachers without catch- The group chairman Dr Mike Knight said he said. ing their sponsors has not deterred poaching. the governments should work together and “We have already asked the government target the ‘international syndicate’ that is deal- MOU for KSh1.5 billion to buy more sophisticated ing with wildlife poaching. Wekesa revealed that the country recently equipment and a further KSh600 million for Speaking during the group’s eleventh signed a Memorandum of Understanding training,” he said. meeting in a Nyeri hotel, Dr Knight noted that with South Africa on conservation aimed at The country recently established a Forensic the syndicate is properly organised and asked ensuring a continental voice on wildlife con- and Molecular laboratory at the Kenya Wild- Kenya, South Africa and Tanzanian to work servations. life Headquarters and rolled out the DNZ in- as a team. South Africa which has the highest popu- dex system to profile the rhinos. “There is an immediate need to share intel- lation of rhinos in the world and lost 668 of Kenya has the third highest number of rhi- ligence on poaching trends between the gov- the animals last year while Kenya lost 29. noceros in Africa with 631 black rhinos and A rhino calf resting inside a pen. There ernments to prevent poachers from accessing “We have to use diplomatic channels to re- 390 Southern White rhinos which were intro- is urgency to share intelligence on duce the demand for the rhino horn through duced recently. the rhino and elephant populations,” said Dr poaching to conserve the dwindling Knight. engaging Asian countries as a united conti- The minister warned KWS officers who numbers of elephants and rhinos. He said that the country is losing its rhino nent,” said the minister. may be working in collaboration with poach- population at the same level with South Af- Wekesa said the government has put in a ers of severe punitive action. Picture: Reject Correspondent 16 Unfiltered, uninhibited…just the gruesome truth ISSUE 077, February 16-28, 2013 Women boycott Valentines Day to stop GBV By CAROLYNE OYUGI

As people all over the world were busy celebrating Valentines Day this year, women and those who support them boycotted the lovers day to stand and talk against Gender Based Violence. In Kenya, women from different organizations and communities met at Central park to stand, strike and dance. This event comes at a time when according to the United Nations, one of every three women on the planet will be physically or sexually abused in her lifetime. In countries experiencing conflict, the situation is even worse. For exam- ple, 1100 women are raped everyday in Congo. According to the Kenyan police statistics, every dawn, five children wake up defiled, three people end up dead and two women are raped. Violence against women takes physical, sexual, psychological and economic form. Rape is one of the worst ordeals that could ever happen to a woman or a girl child. While addressing the attendants, Esther Passaris who is a candidate for Women Representative Nairobi County, said women and girls who experience violence suffer a range of health problems and their ability to participate in public life is dimin- ished. spiked my tea and raped me,” she ex- “You cannot expect a woman who plained, the memories still fresh in is physically abused and as a result has her mind. psychological problems to perform “No one is better placed to use well in her family and community this phrase than me, I was raped at large,” she said adding that some when I was 18 years and although women are not abused physically but the experience almost tore me apart, are not healthy because of psychologi- I have grown over the stigma asso- cal trauma they undergo. ciated with the ordeal .I am now us- ing strength as way of reaching out Rape to other victims who are still in the Violence against women harms closet,” she said. families and communities across gen- While most rape victims would erations and reinforces other forms of want to forget, Sitawa is using her tal- violence in society. ent in poetry to reach women who Rape is one of the worst ordeals think they are alone. She holds poetry that could ever happen to a woman or workshops to life coaching especially a girl child. The aftermath of this bar- for rape victims. baric ordeal is even worse consider- ing that they are exposed to Sexually Poetry Transmitted Diseases too. Sitawa did not have someone to It is sad to note that these cases inform her of these things, and so she have recently been on the increase. believes that she has a duty to do so According to FIDA –Kenya, it is es- for many people. timated that only 1 out of 20 women “I believe if someone was there in Kenya will report rape and only 1 for me maybe things would have in 6 will seek medical assistance. This been different but God says He has Wapi Wapi dancers entertaining participants of One billion rising-Kenya at Central Park Nairobi. therefore means that these figures a reason for everything and I believe Below Esther Pasaris Women Representative Nairobi County candidate addressing the crowd. could be much higher than those re- for me to go through all these things, Pictures: Kaniaru Ndirangu corded by police since many victims He intended me to be that path for shy away from reporting this form of the many people I interact with.” and teacher. VAW urged the government of Ke- tendants. violation. She has learnt that people or cir- Not many survivors however are nya and world over to stop treating The campaign was started by Eve Some of the participants in this cumstances cannot put her down un- lucky to come out of such ordeals as the data they have as statistics but as Ensler, the author of “Vagina Mono- event were the survivors of Gender less she allows them to. strong people. Jane Mwendwa from beautiful and important women who logues” in response to the ever-rising Based Violence. Sitawa Wafula a In her interview with Afroelle Korogocho slum in Nairobi shared have a right to security. incidents of violence against women rape survivor however encourages magazine, she Quotes Faith Evans’ how her friend was beaten to death by “Women die everyday due to and especially sexual violence. the survivors of GBV not to give up song, ‘ if I had to do it all again, I her husband. diseases that can be treated, during The Nairobi event was organised by in life. She believes in the phrase ‘be- would not take away the pain because “If only she had walked out of child delivery and because someone COVAW and involved speakers Slum hind every mess is a message’. it made me who I am.’ that marriage in time maybe she has decided to be violent. All these Drummers and Debe Debe Drum “Before Sunday 15 June, 2003, She is also an activist for human would still be alive,” said Jane with can be stopped because governments Circle. There was also Karate dem- I was a very lively jovial girl then I rights, an Ambassador of Mental teary eyes. can but they have just decided not onstration by Karate Grannies on self had to visit my boyfriend. His friend Health Awareness in Kenya, a blogger Saida Ali, Executive Director CO- to,” she said while addressing the at- defense.

Write to: [email protected] Executive Director: Arthur Okwemba Editor: Jane Godia The paper is supported by the following organisations Sub-Editors: Mercy Mumo, Carolyne Oyugi and Faith Muiruri Designer: Noel Lumbama Contributors: Robert Wanjala, Allan Murimi, John Maina, Ochieng Juma, Kariuki Mwangi, Diana Wanyonyi, John Harrington Ndeta, Benson Mwanga, Joyce Chimbi, Ben Oroko, Adam Juma, Martin Murithi, George Omonso, Ray Limo, Yusuf Amin and www.mdcafrica.org Odhiambo Orlale.