SPECIAL REPORT The NEW LAW SEALS LOOPHOLES IN ELECTORAL PROCESS — Pages 14 & 19 SUPPLEMENT LEnhancingink governance for all THE PARTNERSHIP FOR PEACE PROJECT FUNDED BY THE EU NOVEMBER 2011 Issue No. 085 Kshs 40/= — Pages 15 - 18 Kenya risks being Inside

Is Bungoma ready for self a captured state government? By THE LINK WRITER —Pg. 4 ENYANS are seen to have a “business-as-usual” approach President Kibaki Kto corruption, but a new re- orders ministers port published by the International Peace Institute shows that our ex- to revive KPCU treme tolerance to impunity is having —Pg. 9 devastating consequences and is, in fact, undermining the State’s legiti- macy. Kibunjia assures Endemic corruption and powerful transna- Kenyans election tional criminal networks have entrenched state violence institutions and eroded public confidence in them, says the report by International Peace —Pg. 13 Institute. Peter Gastrow, the author of the report titled “Termites at Work: Transnational Or- State changes ganised Crime and State Erosion in Kenya” says that rampant corruption within the Police tact in race Force, the Judiciary and other State institu- against Aids tions has allowed criminals to penetrate politi- cal institutions. —Pg. 23 Powerful criminal networks with links to Parliament currently pose a big threat to the creation of laws, policies and regulations Bee keeping in that could help curb money laundering and Mwingi faces drug trafficking. Governments that lack the capacity or the political will to counter such imminent collapse penetration, he says, run the risk of becoming “captured states” – that is, states whose gov- —Pg. 27 ernment structures have become captives of Prof. George Saitoti, Internal Security Minister uncontrolled corruption. If this goes unchecked, he warns, the crimi- “Militia groups in Somalia have started to profit KARI releases wheat nal networks could penetrate the East African varieties resistant to Community and cause havoc in neighbouring from drugs trafficked into Kenya. The port of countries as well. stem rust This could result in the kind of lawlessness Kismayu in southern Somalia is used to import —Back Page 8 Turn to Page 2, Col. 1 drugs into Kenya.” Africa struggling to meet rising education demand By THE LINK WRITER cent of children who want to enroll in sec- higher education. 2009, says to UNESCO. With more and ondary education in sub-Saharan Africa. She added that “an educated population more children attending and complet- THE global demand for secondary edu- “There can be no escape from poverty is a country’s greatest wealth,” and that the ing primary-level education, demand for cation has risen exponentially, says a new without a vast expansion of secondary edu- inequalities presented in the report, espe- places in secondary education has risen United Nations report, which adds that cation,” said UNESCO Director-General cially in relation to girls’ exclusion from by leaps and bounds. governments, especially in sub-Saharan Irina Bokova. “This is a minimum entitle- secondary education, have enormous impli- Yet, the agency adds, a child in the last Africa, are having a hard time keeping ment for equipping youth with the knowl- cations for the achievement of development grade of primary school only has at best a up and many children are being left out. edge and skills they need to secure decent targets, from child and maternal health and 75 per cent chance of making the transi- The 2011 Global Education Digest, livelihoods in today’s globalized world.” HIV prevention to environmental security. tion to lower secondary school in about released by the Institute for Statistics In many ways, secondary education is Globally, secondary schools have been 20 countries, the majority of which are in of the UN Educational, Scientific and a bridge for young people from the world accommodating almost 100 million more sub-Saharan Africa. The region also has Cultural Organization (UNESCO), says of school to the world of work, or a bridge students each decade, with the total number there are only enough seats for 36 per between primary education and continuing growing by 60 per cent between 1990 and 8 Turn to Page 2 Col. 5 The Link, November 2011 2 GOVERNANCE Kenya risks being a captured state

From page 1 gle drugs, counterfeits and other il- licit commodities through the port of Mombasa. that has turned many countries, such l During the first nine months of as Mexico and Colombo, into mur- 2010, at least 10 small arms sei- derous, violent places where drug zures were reported on Garissa road lords and criminals hold organs of en route to Nairobi from Somalia. the State hostage, a scenario that is The UN’s Dadaab refugee camp in just too horrific to imagine. northern Kenya is sometimes used The following highlights from as a storage facility by arms smug- the report are most worrying: l glers. Increased volumes of heroin from l Corrupt staff at the Dadaab refu- Pakistan and Iran, and cocaine from gee camp is involved in human Latin America, are being transmit- trafficking and the sale of “slots” ted through Kenya. At least 10 ma- for refugees wishing to migrate to jor international drug trafficking South Africa, Europe and the United networks, headed mainly by West States. Africans, but also involving Ken- l Eastleigh in Nairobi is East Af- yans, are responsible for the bulk rica’s hub for the smuggling of mi- of the cocaine and heroin trafficked grants and the trafficking of women into and through the country. l and children. About 50 girls, mainly Drug money is increasingly being from Somalia are trafficked every used to attain positions of influence, week from north-eastern Kenya to particularly in politics. l Nairobi. Militia groups in Somalia have l In 2010, a staggering $2.1 bil- started to profit from drugs traf- lion found its way into the economy ficked into Kenya. The port of Kis- without the government being able mayu in southern Somalia is used to to explain its source. import drugs into Kenya. l l Funds laundered from Kenya Kenya is the biggest market for sometimes end up with al Shabaab counterfeit goods from India and in Somalia. Kenya’s security forces display their arsenal China. If no action is taken, there is l A Kenyan cartel comprising will be at the helm, making laws to current reforms in the Judiciary special police taskforces to investi- a huge risk that State institutions suit themselves and bribing their could restore the public’s confidence gate these crimes and taking drastic current and former MPs, activists will be eaten up from the inside by linked to politicians – including a way through murder, drug and hu- in government institutions. action against those involved in cor- criminal elements. As a result, the man trafficking, sale of illicit arms However, these reforms must be ruption. prominent businesswoman – and legitimacy of the State will be un- customs personnel are working and a whole range of criminal activi- accompanied by far-reaching steps Unfortunately, the government dermined. ties. to counter crime, corruption and im- appears unwilling – for whatever with a network of Chinese, Somali Kenya will crumble as criminals and Pakistani criminals to smug- The report recognises that the punity, including the appointment of reason – to take these steps. Africa Nacada cracks the whip struggling to By LUKE KAPCHANGA THE National Agency for the Cam- meet rising paign Against Drug Abuse (NACA- DA) has embarked on a rigorous education exercise to nab violators of the Al- coholic Drinks Control Act 2010. demand According to Aggrey M. Buse- From page 1 na, who is the acting National Co- ordinator of NACADA, the agency a shortage of secondary school is carrying out random inspection teachers. of outlets selling alcoholic drinks, At the same time, sub-Saha- manufacturers and importers of al- ran Africa has made the greatest coholic substances to ensure com- gains of all regions, with gross pliance with licensing regulations enrolment ratios rising from 28 including operating hours and pack- per cent to 43 per cent for lower aging. secondary and from 20 per cent “We are undertaking sampling to 27 per cent for upper second- ary education between 1999 and analysis of the quality of alco- and 2009. holic drinks being sold to the public “Nevertheless, more than countrywide in the swoop,” he said, 21.6 million children of lower adding that through the exercise, secondary school age remain the agency seeks to develop and excluded from education across validate guidelines for promotion/ the region and many will never advertising of alcoholic drinks. even spend a day in school,” The exercise being undertaken states UNESCO. through the Rapid Response Initia- Girls are the hardest hit by tive by NACADA has also incorpo- this inequality, the report says. rated public education campaigns In sub-Saharan Africa, the en- through meetings, dissemination of UNDER ARREST: The agency is carrying out random inspection of outlets selling alcoholic drinks. rolment ratio for girls in lower IEC materials, sensitization forums secondary education is 39 per and mass media. “So far, our teams have visited most operators flout the law in the l Failing to observe public health cent compared to 48 per cent “Our teams are in the field Starehe, Kamukunji, Makadara, following ways: standards including provision of for boys. conducting random inspections of Embakasi, Langata, Njiru, Kasara- l Selling without licenses clean toilet facilities, medical cer- Sub-Saharan Africa is the alcohol manufacturing and selling ni, Westlands, Dagoretti and Athi l Outlets retaining patrons in their tificates, etc. only region in which the gender premises. Those who are found to River”, he added. premises so that they may drink out- He urged operators who have disparities against girls are get- be flouting the provisions of the Act A total of 24 persons (11 male, side licenced hours not complied with the requirements ting worse at the upper second- will face the law,” he said. 13 female) have been arrested in the l Allowing patrons to drink at off- of the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act ary level, with 8 million boys enrolled compared to only 6 He stated that the inspection exercise and will soon be arraigned licence/wines and spirits outlets 2010 to close down their businesses began in Nairobi area and will con- in court. l Selling distilled alcoholic prod- lest they face the full force of the tinue countrywide. The agency had noticed that ucts in plastic bottles law. Turn to Page 6 Col. 1 The Link, November 2011 EDUCATION 3 Give full bursary to needy students Othaya School unveils — state urged By BOB OMBATI

PARENTS and teachers from Gusii re- ambitious strategic plan gion have appealed to the government By JOSEPH MUKUBWA to consider offering full scholarship to needy students who qualify for admis- OTHAYA Boys High School has sion in national schools. unveiled a five-year strategic plan David Nyang’au, a parent says that majority of students from poor back- which will steer development grounds are forfeiting their chances in projects estimated to cost Kshs198 national schools as parents cannot af- million. ford to raise the money demanded by The plan which was unveiled such institutions. by the Kimathi University Col- Nyang’au urges the government to lege of Technology Principal Prof sponsor such students to enable them Ndirangu Kioni, seeks to trans- excel and realize their dreams. form Othaya Boys to a haven of He at the same time points out that excellence. the ongoing elevation of some schools “A strategic plan provides a to national status may further disfran- chise needy students incase the fee is framework through which pro- revised upwards to match the acquired grammes and activities in the status. school can be implemented Another parent, Maranga Mgoya through an effective and holistic called on the government to set aside way,” said Kioni when he unveiled funds in the budget to support students the plan during a prize giving cer- from poor backgrounds who secure emony at the school. places in national schools since they Kioni who was accompanied by are few. Mgoya notes that the bursary the school’s principal Dedan Muri- fund channelled to students in national schools is inadequate to support their ithi and School BOG chairman education. Wilson Mwaniki said that the plan Nyanchwa Boys boarding high adopts a comprehensive analysis school Principal, Timothy Oboso pro- of the existing school capacity and poses that national schools start projects systems which propagates an ef- which engage students regularly to en- fective society at large. able them raise some money to pay their The plan is also aimed to im- school fees. prove the infrastructure of the “No child should forfeit his or her school which has been elevated chance to join a national school due to into a Centre of Excellence by the lack of school fees. Education founda- Othaya Boys High School Principal Dedan Muriithi (left) and Kimathi University College Principal Prof Ndirangu tions and education stakeholders should District Education Board. Kioni (right) with a parent during the unveiling of a five-year strategic plan. Photo/Joseph Mukubwa concert their effort to aid them fully,” “The school has developed says Oboso. He urges managers of na- from a single harambee stream to imposed to self discipline. This has by several challenges including added. tional schools to introduce both learning four streamed provincial boarding been attributed to continued guid- shortage of teachers, stocking the Mureithi said the school which and working policy to enable students school with a student population ance and counseling by parents, library, expansion of the sporting was established in 1964 has de- from poor families earn little income to of 903 boys. The student’s disci- teachers and other stakeholders,” activities and dining hall and com- veloped over the years in terms of add up to their school fees. pline has greatly improved over said the principal of the school. pletion of the dormitories to reduce infrastructure, student population Kisii boys and Nyabururu Girls the years with gradual change from boarding high schools are among sev- However, the school is faced congestion in the dormitories,” he and academic performance. eral schools which have been elevated to national status with their respective principals, Casper Maina and Elmelda Ochenge saying they are ready to em- Karima head teacher honored by Kibaki brace the status. Meanwhile, the enrolment and tran- By PETER MUTUKU leadership in helping girl’s access the others attained minimum univer- even harder. sition rates in Kisii Central District have university education and mobilizing sity qualification of C plus. “I attribute my success to the registered remarkable improvement ow- THE Principal of Karima Girls High communities towards development. “The principal has been extending co-operation I receive from my 35 - ing to the success of the subsidized Sec- School in Nyandarua County Cath- Central PC Japhter Kiplimo Rugut her service to the country by getting strong teaching staff, 30 non-teaching ondary Education(SSE). erine Irungu has received a state rec- who read the citation before present- involved in development projects in staff and the local community who Area District Education Officer ( ognition for her great role in the ad- ing the head teacher with the medal the schools in the neigbouring Kinan- keep my school well supplied with DEO), Martin Mwalo says that the tran- vancement of girl - child education said Irungu had led her team of 35 gop area,” said the PC. goods and services,” the joyful prin- sition rate to Secondary schools current- and community development. teachers in ensuring that about 110 Thanking the President for the cipal said. ly stand at 83.17 percent, with a gross In awarding her the Head of State candidates who sat for last year’s Ken- award at the brief function held in The mother of three and Keny- enrolment of 85.5 percent and a net en- Commendation (HSC) Civilian Divi- ya Certificate of Secondary Education the PC’s board room, Irungu said the atta University graduate who begun rolment of 82.7 percent. sion medal, President Mwai Kibaki (KCSE) examination in the school recognition would inspire her and the her teaching career in 1988 said she He observes that the transition rate acknowledged Irungu for providing scored grade B and above while all Karima School Community to work also finds time to mentor students and surpasses the national figure which teachers in other schools in the neigh- stands at 76 percent. bourhood of Karima and chair the The DEO notes that last year, 5692 Nyandarua County Drama Festival candidates sat for KCPE examination compared to 5813 who have been regis- Committee. She is married to banker tered for this year’s exam, adding that in Philemon Kibiru who accompanied 2010, a total of 2,843 girls did the exam her to the function. against 2,970 boys while 2,712 girls will Besides, she said, Karima admits sit for the exam this year against 2,980 all the top girls from the neighbour- male candidates. hood as part enhancing the bonds be- Mwalo says a significant number of tween her school and the community. KCPE candidates find their way into lo- Irungu, who has previously served cal secondary schools while others join as Principal of Mathaithi and Tumu provincial and national schools, thus in- Tumu Girls schools in Nyeri County, creasing the transition rates. also finds time to serve on the com- He says the district has 58 public mittee of the Kinangop Plateau As- secondary schools with 6 private ones, sociation, an environmental conserva- adding there are 157 public primary tion organization that promotes bee schools which churn students to the keeping in the area as a way of keep- schools and those in the neighbouring ing locals from harmful exploitation districts. of natural resources. “Almost every primary school has Asked how she was able to jug- a secondary school. Therefore students gle the many roles she plays, the head are assured of places in secondary schools within their localities regard- teacher said everything was possible if less of their performance in the exams,” one was focused adding that “I believe says the DEO, adding schools compete commitment, resilience and the good Central PC Japhter Kiplimo Rugut (left) with Karima Girls High Principal Catherine Irungu before being for students to have enough students to health God has given me keeps me go- comply with requirements set by the presented the Head of State Commendation medal at PC’s boardroom in Nyeri town recently. On the right the ing,” Irungu said. Principal’s husband Philemon Kibiru at PC’s boardroom. Photo/Joseph Mukubwa Ministry of Education. The Link, November 2011 4 GOVERNANCE Is Bungoma ready for self government? S the country gears up towards ingful development which was lacking tions have created a perfect environ- develop the hotel industry to exploit a devolved system of govern- COMMENT during Mwangale’s tenure. ment for the suffering of the residents the underlying potential in the sector. ment, uncertainty appears to Bungoma became a stronghold of making them “begging farmers”. The very same elites, do not know A opposition politics as a new breed of This is so, because the elected underlying opportunities, and hence cloud the establishment of the new By LUKE KAPCHANGA units as it becomes apparent that some leaders amongst them Musikari Kom- leaders are political tourists and have do not know who is investing where, of them are insolvent. bo and Mukhisa Kituyi joined the po- no economic attachment to understand the returns and likely impact on the In Bungoma County, for example, personalities from the region includ- litical scene. the suffering of the people, what they economy- this spells a disaster if they there is a general feel that the national ing the late veteran politician Masinde With time, the two had the privi- go through, and the possible solution. are given the mandate of running the government should be allowed to run Muliro to attain education. lege of getting cabinet appointments, Take the case of Nzoia Sugar factory show of development. the affairs of the county until such a He rallied the community towards and true to the politics of Bungoma with a debt portfolio of Kshs.26 billion, The best case study for this pur- time the county is strong enough to efforts to get its own district from they too became strangers to the peo- against an asset value of Kshs.8billion. pose is the CDF whose infrastructure survive on its own. North Kavirondo. Bungoma had a vi- ple they were supposed to represent The company has become insolvent, in general is billed to last at most not Article 190(4b) of the Constitution brant cooperative movement that put it and any effort to change economic dy- yet the top management is comprised more than ten years, yet they are the allows the national government to as- on the Kenyan map for economic and namics remained elusive. of sons of the county. yard stick of development for most of sume the responsibility for relevant educational sector. Poverty in Bungoma became more Nzoia is the only sugar factory with the serving politicians in their respec- functions especially in cases where the With independence and Nabwan entrenched as Ford-Kenya strength- the least payment rates at Kshs.3,300 tive constituencies. particular county lacks the requisite ca- out of the way, the political leader- ened its political base in the area and per ton, while other millers are pay- The political elites in Bungoma pacity. History is replete with intricate ship started dismantling everything the district acquired a distinction as a ing above Kshs.3,800, but the political have not embraced a participatory cases of mismanagement coupled with he stood for, and poverty crept in as a Millennium district. This meant that class has not raised any finger. approach in development and still be- endless political intrigues that have cost permanent feature. the proportion of poverty was very Overall, corruption at the mill is lieve they have a monopoly of ideas. the county stability in development. At the helm of power, Masinde high, and it was frequently mentioned at all times high and theft has become It is for this reason that they cannot And although focus now is being Muliro relentlessly spearheaded a every time the Millennium Develop- the order of the day leaving farmers at be entrusted with ensuring and coordi- shifted to political contests as all and campaign that saw the Welfare associ- ment Goals were cited. the mercy of illegal cartels that have nating the participation of communi- sundry declare their interests in be- ation being dismantled despite having This affirms the need for the Na- amassed wealth at their expense. ties in governance at the local level. coming the Governor or senator in the played a pivotal role for his education, tional government to intervene and On pollution, before the closure of The current political contests are a county, critical issues have been rel- and a vehicle for development that manage the affairs of Bungoma county Pan African Paper mills, residents – clear manifestation that poverty alle- egated to the periphery. But of concern espoused Luyia unity. With that very government once the devolved system without any support of political lead- viation is not part of the agenda. is the absence of effective governance action, community members were al- becomes operational. ership sought the intervention of In- The forums, which these very lead- which may necessitate intervention by most criminalized while coming up When you analyze the functions ternational Finance Cooperation- who ers use to declare their interests have the National government. with development initiatives aimed at and powers of the county government helped manage pollution. been reduced to talk shows where their poverty alleviation. in agriculture, control of pollution, For years, the political class were main focus is how to revive the col- Why should this be? On their part, the political elites de- trade development and regulations, in the good books of the company lapsed industries- manifesting closed The trend of development right from veloped a systematic agenda of mass besides ensuring and coordinating executives, when residents of mainly thinking and lack of innovations in independence can help shed some light scale poverty creation, by ensuring participation in governance, you get Webuye, bore the impact of pollution their style of leadership. for the county. It is widely acknowl- that institutions of employment and scared, with the people jostling for related effects, without recourse. Leadership in the county is about edged that the first African to hold the job creation collapsed. When the late the positions. Agriculture which is the With trade, it remains a laughable sharing positions and quietly retreat- current equivalent of Bungoma county Elijah Wasike Mwangale entered the major economic mainstay accounts for affair, as local do not own businesses. ing to Nairobi, and occasionally makes council chairman, Pascal Nabwana put political scene, the economic fortunes almost 90 percent of the poverty in the All viable enterprises are run success- technical appearances in functions and in place structures for development of the region sunk deeper. area yet it has all the potential to be the fully by what locals call outsiders, and funerals to fulfill their egos. Residents which remain unrivalled todate. The advent of multi- party had a engine of growth. the elites from the community find it must therefore arise and take owner- Being a selfless leader he held the foothold in Bungoma for a very sim- The cooperative movement which very difficult to spot an investment op- ship in the ongoing processes to bring post from 1959 – 1963 and was the ple reason, the residents were made to brings to light the Malakisi ginnery, portunity. Locals have only managed to an end to the retrogressive political brain behind the Bukusu welfare as- believe that the new political dispensa- Kitinda dairy, Nzoia Sugar Company, to infiltrate the hotel industry- yet the legacy that has dominated the area for sociation which helped prominent tion would usher in a new era of mean- has been mismanaged at the behest of popular menu is alcohol . decades. the political class. The same institu- But still they have not managed to

By JOSEPH MUKUBWA

THE Government is committed to addressing the challenges af- Public Ministry to address fecting health professionals. The PS Ministry of Public Health and Sanitation Mark Bor said in Nyeri recently that the Government is considering long challenges facing medics term strategies for ensuring that health professionals are attracted Country’s overall health goals,” to work and live in the hard to added the PS. reach areas. He said good health is expect- “Nurses will receive consid- ed to play an important role in eration in this respect. I have dis- boosting economic growth, pov- cussed your issues with national erty reduction and the realization leaders and I wish to assure you of Vision 2030. that the Government will address “At the movement, over 10 these issues alongside others million Kenyans are faced with across the entire civil service,” starvation due to the current said the PS. drought being experienced in He admitted that the health Northern Kenya. This has posed professionals including nurses great challenges to the provi- are faced with numerous chal- sion of public health services as lenges such as low staffing levels, many individuals and families promotion and other incentives are forced to migrate in search necessary for their career devel- of water, food and pasture. The opment. challenge to ensure continuity Others have been working in of treatment for persons on pro- insecure areas like Maragua and longed medication such as TB, Kajiado where the institutions are HIV/Aids is enormous,” he add- raided at night. ed. He said the Government has Bor also announced that from so far hired about 35 nurses in next year, the country will have a every constituency. new system government in place Public Health PS Mark Bor (left) with National Nurses Association of Kenya top officials with services being devolved in Bor was speaking at Kagumo awarding some of the best nurses during the annual Scientific Conference and 54thAnnual Teachers College in Nyeri Coun- General Meeting at Kagumo Teachers College in Nyeri recently. Photo/Joseph Mukubwa the 47 counties as provided in the ty during official opening of the constitution. National Nurses Association of The association chairman Ko- Kenya’s annual Scientific Con- ba Kodambo and National treas- of the nurse.” coherent National Health Policy dambo announced that the nurses ference and 54th Annual General urer Jeremiah Maina and Chief “The Ministry in collabora- Framework. This policy frame- will down tools if nothing is done Meeting. Nursing Officer Chris Rakuom. tion with all stakeholders in the work will seek to provide guid- including hiring of more nurses Also present was the associa- This year’s conference theme health sector has put in place a ance across the health spectrum by December this year. tion national chairman Luke Sim- is “Towards Vision 2030, the role comprehensive, balanced and for actions required to attain the The Link, November 2011 EDUCATION 5 School transport faces danger over insurance Wako wants more national cover By MALACHI MOTANO A CRISIS is looming in public schools schools built in Busia following revelations that the govern- ment will no longer finance insurance By NYAKWAR ODAWO cover for school vehicles. Parents will now have to pay be- FORMER Attorney General Amos tween Sh600,000 and Sh1 million annu- Sitwila Wako wants national ally for insurance premiums per school schools put up at the constituency depending on the value of the vehicles. The government halted the cover in level. December last year. It is now emerging The former state legal ad- that students are being transported with- viser says the current policy that out insurance cover, as many schools opt allows two national schools in for the purchase of third party insurance every County was inhibitive and as opposed to comprehensive cover. would still block majority of stu- Previously, the government has been dents from getting access to such spending between Sh200 million and schools. Sh300 million annually to provide com- He said that a large County like prehensive insurance cover for all public school vehicles, including vans, pickups Busia should not be confined to and even tractors. only two national schools consid- “The situation is bound to get worse ering that it has a total of 413 pri- as the government only paid premiums mary and 200 secondary schools for 1,753 buses during the 2010/2011 with each posting high enrolment financial year. The cover expired on figures. September 30 this year, meaning that “Two national schools per all schools’ vehicles will be on the roads county are not enough and that illegally if individual institutions do not implies that majority of students renew the premiums,” says Cleophas in the respective counties will Tirop who is the Chairman of the Kenya Secondary Schools Heads Association end up being locked out of such (KSSHA). The move seems to have institutions due to limited space,” caught school administrators by surprise said the former AG, adding that in and caused extreme confusion since Busia County only one percent of most head teachers claim that they have students will join the two national not received any official communication schools. from the Government informing them Speaking at a funds drive at of the plan to stop providing subsidy for Murende secondary school in Former AG Amos Wako addressing parents, teachers and students at Murende secondary the insurance. Matayos division of Busia district “Schools just received circulars ban- school in Matayos division Busia district during the fundraiser. Photo/Nyakwar Odawo ning the hiring out of buses. But every where he was the chief guest re- time individual school applies for in- cently, Wako said that in order to ment Fund committee to allocate The chairman of Bukhayo wel- suggestions by local leaders that surance for a new vehicle, they are in- ensure that qualified students are more funds to the school to aid fare association Humphrey Naki- the position of governor be occu- formed that the Government is no long- not locked out of national schools in the construction of additional tare who also addressed the occa- pied only by administrators con- er responsible for the funding,” he adds due to limited chances, each con- classrooms as enrolment figures sion on his part called upon Busia sidering that they have administra- He says that it is not logical for the stituency should have one national had shot up to 313 students. County leaders to put aside their tive skills capable of running the Government to transfer this responsi- school. Makokha at the same time ap- differences and unite for the sake county effectively. bility to parents, noting that the cost “In order to ensure all quali- pealed to the Teachers Service of development under new county He said the post should be open of premiums is too high for schools to fied students are accorded space Commission [TSC] to post more government structure. to all interested parties irrespective afford. “While most schools with new in national schools, there is need teachers to the school saying that Nakitare said that Busia Coun- of their professions so that elector- buses have found it hard to afford the cover and either grounded the vehicles for each constituency to have a na- the school required an additional ty stood to gain a lot under the new ate can make their decision on who or used them without insurance, others tional school meaning that Busia nine teachers to boost the current system of government considering to elect as their representative. have already opted to purchase third County which currently has five number which stands at seven that the region has a lot of resourc- “Nobody should be denied the party insurance as opposed to compre- constituencies with high enrol- teachers. es especially being a border town. opportunity to contest for the post hensive cover”. ment figures will have five nation- The Busia District Education “Busia County stands to gain a of governorship. It should be open “We fear many other schools could al schools and that will definitely Officer John Owino said he will lot under the devolved system of to all willing aspirants and it is go for third party cover since it has the cater for more students,” said liaise with the Teachers Service government because it has a lot of none other than the electorate who lowest cost premiums. This will be a Wako. Commission and the ministry of resources apart from being a bor- can decide who to elect and who major risk since the school buses cannot Speaking at the same func- education to ensure additional der town,” said adding that with- not to elect,” said Nakitare, adding be compensated in case of an accident. This will also expose our students and tion, the school’s principal, John teachers are deployed at the school out unity no tangible development that Kenya is a democratic country teachers to liabilities” says Tirop. Wabwire Makokha appealed to the to manage the increasing student can be realized. where any eligible person is free to The move is punitive to parents as Nambale Constituency Develop- population. He at the same time dismissed vie for any position of leadership. it comes at a time when most of them are grappling with the high cost of liv- ing. The insurance cover cannot be pri- oritised in schools until the New Year; a situation I believe will result in a major transport crisis in the institutions coun- Thriving slum school needs school bus trywide. A number of schools that acquired By LINK CORRESPONDENT Mathare Community Outreach December caused some damage, of the occasional field trip that a buses on hire purchase risk having the is transforming the lives of children and other needs are significant with school bus would provide, a bus vehicles confiscated. Most of the new MATHARE Valley is a slum com- in the slums with a thriving school. 64 teachers on payroll and 1,400 could actually help generate in- buses are bought on hire purchase and The school whose population cur- mouths to feed. One of their biggest come, as well. The school plans to one of the conditions by the banks is that pletely overflowing with about half a million people. rently stands at1,425 provides slum needs, however, is actually some- rent out the bus when it is not in use if you are to continue servicing the loan, children with the opportunity to get thing quite ordinary: a school bus. to help pay for teachers’ salaries, the bus must have comprehensive cover. “It is compact, it is dirty, and You must thus pay the installments and there is no sanitation. Imagine in quality education and two meals a “One of the things that they’ve making the school less dependent the premiums simultaneously and if you your mind just where you’d never day. desperately wanted is to be able to on aid from outside sources. default on either of the two, the bus is want to live, and that’s what Math- “It is like an oasis. It is a chance take some of these kids and get them Bright Hope wants to raise likely to be repossessed. are Valley is like,” says Craig Dyer for them to get a meal, some teach- out and take them into the rural ar- enough money to buy a bus for Wilson Sosion, the Chairman Ken- with Bright Hope International. ing, and for somebody to really eas of Nairobi and of Kenya--to just the school. The cost is $40,000, yan National Union of Teachers (Knut) Kids go hungry and have no show that they care about them,” show them nature, and to give them and the ministry has already terms the decision shameful, especially says Dyer. an experience other than an urban, raised $18,903, so they’re almost coming in the wake of revelations of schooling. Brokenness is every- where. There is, however, one bril- The school’s approach to educa- city, slum setting.” halfway. For the final push, Bright massive misappropriation of funds tion and the Gospel is clearly work- Many children know nothing of Hope is asking you to consider a meant for free primary education. liant light shining. “If insurances are being withdrawn “In this dark patch of the world ing, too. “Kids are coming out of the the world outside of the slum. This small $10 donation today to bring and money is being stolen, it is a para- is a light: a single church that is slums, going to college, and moving could open up their eyes to God’s joy to the hearts of these 1,400 dox. The Education Ministry was re- sharing the Gospel, is loving peo- on from the slum community be- creation, providing them with learn- kids in Mathare Valley. cently rocked by a scam where officials ple, and is working to help the cause of the school.” ing and growing experiences men- To donate to this noble cause could not account for Kshs4.2 billion needy--especially young kids,” This amazing community has tally, but spiritually as well. text BHOPE BUS to the number meant for the Free Primary Education says Dyer. had its share of suffering. A fire in Beyond the obvious allowance 85944. programme. The Link, November 2011 6 EDUCATION Africa struggling to meet rising education demand From page 2 Bungoma million girls, according to the re- port. education Girls also face significant bar- riers in South and West Asia, score card although the situation is improv- ing. About 35 million girls were By LUKE KAPCHANGA enrolled in lower secondary edu- cation in 2009, with the female WHEREAS the number of candi- gross enrolment ratio reaching 69 dates sitting for the Kenya Certifi- per cent compared to 53 per cent cate of Primary Education (KCPE) in 1999. examinations in Bungoma East The prospects for girls have district has been rising each year., been improving in other regions performance still remains poor such as East Asia and the Pacific, with only a few students manag- where the lower secondary gross ing to transit to the next level. enrolment ratio for girls grew from In the year 2010, the total 75 per cent to 91 per cent between number of students stood at 5312, 1999 and 2009. out which only 35 qualified to Significant improvements have join National schools with Lugulu also been made in the Arab States, mixed boarding primary school with the female gross enrolment producing 22 students. ratio for lower secondary educa- The school which registered tion rising from 67 per cent to 82 259 candidates is the only one per cent over the same period. which has been able to maintain Across the region, girls are impressive performance over the also more likely than boys to com- years. plete lower secondary education Generally more girls than boys in three-quarters of countries with register for KCPE in the district. available data. However, chal- Pupils in a class in a slum area. In 2010, there were 62 more lenges remain at the upper second- girls sitting for the examination ary level, where there are enough “According to the Digest, said that even though much at- helps support a more skilled than boys, and the figure stands at school places for just 47 per cent about one third of the world’s chil- tention has been paid to improv- workforce. This can help lead to 117 more girls in this year’s exam. of girls and 49 per cent of boys of dren live in countries where lower ing the coverage and quality of poverty reduction and economic The district has registered upper secondary school age to en- secondary education is formally primary education, there is now a growth goals. It helps to support 2723 candidates, out of which 272 roll, states the report. considered to be compulsory but greater recognition of the vital role a population which is healthier are registered at Lugulu mixed “All of these data underscore a the laws are not respected. We of secondary education, especially and which participates more ac- boarding primary, where the head central message: secondary educa- need to translate the commitment for development. tively in society. And thus, sec- teacher has promised to surpass tion is the next great challenge,” into reality.” It is also important at the so- ondary education also acts as a the mean score of 352 marks. states Hendrik van der Pol, Di- Albert Motivans, Head of Edu- cietal level, with important ben- kind of a bridge at the society The long serving KNUT exec- rector of UNESCO’s Institute for cation Indicators and Data Analy- efits for societies and economies, level, from one level of develop- utive secretary of Bungoma West, Statistics. sis at the Montreal-based Institute, he added. “Secondary education ment to the next.” attributes failure by some stu- dents to secure places in National schools to poor bursary manage- By LINK CORRESPONDENT ment. “ In Bungoma West we agreed WHEREAS ICT has penetrated many Challenges face computer with the bursary committee, to sectors including banking, transporta- allocate needy students with the tion, communications, and medical entire fees, yet this proposal has services in the country, the educa- never been implemented,” said tional system continues to lag behind. education in Schools Fred Sichangi. Further, recent report by the National The DEB had resolved that Council for Science and Technology The teacher says that many schools especially by the older generation that more important than buying comput- needy students who secure places indicates that computer use in Kenyan are still not yet connected to electricity computers require highly skilled per- ers for their schools. in National and Provincial schools classrooms is still in its early phases, mainly due to the fact that many parts sonnel to operate them, while this may ICT can play a significant role in should be awarded full sponsor- and concludes that the perceptions and of the country have not been connect- not be the case, some school adminis- equalizing opportunities for marginal- ship. experiences of teachers and adminis- ed to the national electricity grid. trators also fear that their students will ized groups and communities. But the He however said the resolve trators do play an important role in “Consequently those schools that be exposed to adult sites and other paradox is that for those groups that has been derailed by corruption the use of computers in Kenyan class- fall under such areas are left handi- undesired sites, through the use of the are unable to cross the technology di- and lack of clear mechanism to rooms. capped and may not be able to offer internet. Some also fear the infection vide, ICT is yet another means to fur- identify needy cases which has re- The dilemma which arises in pro- computer studies,” he says. of viruses to their computers leading ther marginalize them. Education has sulted in the awarding of bursaries viding educational technology stems He says computers are still expen- to data loss, while this may be true to a major role to play in resolving this to undeserving cases. from a lack of financial resources and sive and majority of the individuals some extent, proper education on the problem. Thus, unless ICT becomes Sichangi added, “The money a limited distributive capacity. In ad- and schools cannot afford to buy a safe use of computers and help allevi- part of both the delivery and content is always allocated to undeserving dition, the government has not been computer and consider it as a luxury ate some of these fears. of education, the disadvantage will students, and committee members able to employ teachers, and provide item. Teachers also fear that they may be deepen and development will suffer. collude to share it out later after resources to keep up with demand. While a good number of schools rendered irrelevant by the introduction But the failure to use ICT is itself writing cheques”. Martin Mungai, a secondary have benefited from donated used of computers at the classroom. Major- a result of the digital and knowledge He expressed support for the school teacher says that lack of quali- computers, they have not been ad- ity of teachers still regard themselves divides that exist, and their causes new system where disbursement fied teachers to teach ICT in schools equately equipped with the same on as main authorities in the classroom are deeply embedded in the complex will be done at the school level has curtailed the implementation maintenance and repair, hence its very and anything that threatens the status historical and socio-cultural context as this will ensure all needy cases process. “While the demand for ICT common to see a schools computer quo is deemed an enemy of the class- of the country. Fortunately, with the benefit from the fund. learning has been tremendous, the lab full of broken down computers, room. Vision 2030 goals, the government He said the bursary commit- number of teachers who are trained to some repairable and some not. This Most schools are unable to con- has begun to implement strategies that tee which will now comprise of teach ICT cannot meet the demand,” has actually been a major problem, nect to the World Wide Web, due to will address these paradoxes. KNUT, PTA, BOG, and principals he says adding that there are more stu- and the government has now put strict the high costs involved in the con- The government has among other will help to identify all needy cas- dents willing to be taught computing measures on any person, NGO or cor- nectivity. On average, it may cost ap- things come up with an ICT policy es and award them with bursary. skills than there are teaches to transfer porate bodies willing to donate second proximately Kshs 11,400per month to that aims to improve the livelihoods Similar sentiments were ex- the skills. hand computers. connect to about 15 computers on a of Kenyans by ensuring the avail- pressed by his counterpart from He says the situation has been ag- Further, computers in schools have bandwidth of 128/64kbps. This is con- ability of accessible, efficient, reli- Bungoma East, Aggrey Namisi, gravated by lack of computers despite been targeted by thieves who usually sidered as very expensive for a very able and affordable ICT services. who said that only genuine cases the spirited efforts by government have ready markets to another party slow speed. The national policy addresses several will benefit from the disburse- agencies, NGO, corporate organiza- at a much less figure. This has made Leaders who are charged with sections, among them includes; Infor- ments. tions and individuals to donate com- many schools to incur extra expenses looking at the interests of a given mation technology, Broadcasting, Tel- They said the past mode dis- puters to as many schools as possible. trying to burglar proof the compu- community do not see the need to pur- ecommunications and Postal services. bursement had denied bright stu- “There still remains a big percent- ter rooms. This extra expense makes chase and subsequent installations of However, it is the section on informa- dents their bid to join national age of the schools unable to purchase some schools shy away from purchas- computers to their schools as a prior- tion technology that sets out the objec- schools due to their inability to computers for use by their pupils,” he ing computers for their students. ity. They consider health care, provi- tives and strategies pertaining to ICT raise the required amount of fees. adds. There is still a strong perception sion of water and other amenities as and education. The Link, November 2011 GOVERNANCE 7 Mudavadi Tumutumu forest invaded by outlaws rails at By JOSEPH MUKUBWA RESIDENTS of Tumutumu area in Bungoma Mathira West district are protesting over wanton destruction of Tumu Tumu forest by illegal loggers and politicians charcoal burners who have invaded By AGGREY BUCHUNJU the ecosystem. The illegal loggers are targeting THE deputy Prime Minister Mr. Mu- indigenous and Eucalyptus trees for salia Mudavadi is challenging politi- charcoal burning and crafting han- cians in Bugnoma County to rise above dles for folk jembes, axes and knives parochialism. among other household items. Mr. Mudavadi instead wants the politicians in the third largest county in Green Belt Movement environ- the country to focus on big issues that mentalists and community conser- can benefit the residents. vationists want the government to He says that it is absurd for politi- intervene and save the 700 acre forest cians in the region to waste their ener- in Nyeri County from further destruc- gies, time and other resources fighting tion. for trivial matters. The groups found some indig- Consequently, Mudavadi urges the enous trees already cut down, huge political leaders to fight for establish- logs in the forest and areas marked for ment of industries in the region that can guarantee permanent job opportunities charcoal burning. to the youth. The local community led by Mudavadi was responding to Green Belt Movement extension of- Bungoma political leaders’ complaints ficers Lydia Kimani, Julius Githariga against a construction company which and Kahuho Mathai accused the Ny- is currently undertaking road work in eri County Council of abetting the Green Belt Movement official Kahuho Mathai shows the abandoned logs at Tumutumu forest in Photo/Joseph Mukubwa the region. He was speaking recently at destruction of the forest by allegedly Mathira West in Nyeri County. Namachanja high school in Bungoma withdrawing council askaris manning town during a funds raising meeting in the forest. She added that “The county coun- originated from the forest have al- Nga’ng’a when reached for a com- aid of the school where he was the chief “We urge the government through cil in whose custody the forest lays ready dried up due to massive destruc- ment said the council has not with- guest. the Kenya Forest Service to halt the has been unable to protect it.” tion and particularly of indigenous drawn their officers from the forest Some local political leaders had trees. but was faced with the challenge of earlier accused H-Young a construction destruction and restore the forest to its They expressed fears that the area company rehabilitating Webuye- Mal- lost glory,” said Mathai. may become prone to drought if the During the pre-colonial era, the protecting the ecosystem as loggers aba Highway of allegedly refusing to Kimani said the forest was mas- destruction is not contained and the forest was managed and protected were threatening them. employ local youths as casuals. sively destroyed in the previous re- perpetrators face the law. by the nine clans in the area before it He added that a meeting held re- The leaders led by Bungoma mayor gime and “we took upon ourselves to Most of the tributaries and streams was handed over to the Nyeri County cently by the council looked into ways Patrick Suleji and Bungoma county rehabilitate it, but our efforts are being in the area have dried up. Council in trust of the community. of having armed patrol from Kenya council vice chair John Weyusia threat- frustrated by the loggers,” They added that three wells that Nyeri County Council clerk David Forest Service to address the problem. ened to mobilize residents to storm the company’s premises at Bwema with a view to ejecting the managers out. Mr. Mudavadi, who is also minister for local Government challenged the Busia residents raise concerns over make-shift bridge politicians to be visionary and strive to Police foils achieve long term solutions to the youth By NYAKWAR ODAWO schools are forced to use a make-shift vene and possibly visit the said make- unemployment problem. foot bridge to access Busia town and shift foot bridge and see the risks that Sagana “Luhya leaders should crusade for RESIDENTS of Mundulusia and respective learning institutions hence residents are exposed to on a daily creation of industries but not for the Mabale, Busia County, are up in arms endangering their lives,” adds the basis and especially when it rains,” youths to work on roads, work that will over failure by the local municipal spokesman. said the residents in a memo copied brewers’ end within a year,” Mr. Mudavadi ad- council to recarpet the dilapidated He cited a recent incident where a to the District Public Works Office. vised. road network connecting the two vil- ten year old pupil escaped death nar- The local civic leaders however The deputy prime minister won- lages. rowly after he slipped and fell into the said that plans are underway to re- devious move dered what else the youths employed Led by their spokesman Salim water while crossing though the tem- carpet the dilapidated road network. By MORRIS GITHENYA as casuals will do after completion of Muturi, the residents accuse local porary bridge. “He was fortunately Councilor Wilberforce Ochuka of the road work. “We should begin to see councillors of failing to allocate funds rescued by a good samaritan who was Burumba civic ward and his Mayenje POLICE in Murang’a have thwarted beyond short lived issues and exploit to repair the access road which is duly using the flooded bridge at the time,” counterpart Councilor Emannuel Wa- a plot by illicit brewers to relocate investment opportunities if we want our registered with the public works and said Muturi, adding that the road fula Simiyu said that the road will be people to develop socially and economi- their operations to the banks of Sa- the Municipal Council. should be recarpeted without further constructed in the next financial year gana River, to evade police swoops. cally,” he says. The residents say that during the delay to avert any unwarranted loss through the LATF kitty. Mr. Mudavadi further challenged The security agents, led by local politicians to desist from activi- rainy season, the area becomes im- of lives. “We will give the road network Murang’a East district security ties that can discourage both local and passable and they have to contend He appealed to the area District first priority in our next Local Au- committee were shocked when they foreign investors from investing in the with unreliable make-shift structures Commissioner Mwiandi Gitonga to thority Service Delivery Action Plan found that brewers had established a erected over a stream that passes intervene and push for the recarpet- (LASDAP) process so that funds region. safe haven at the banks of the river Squabbling, malice and use of un- through someone’s land. ing of the access road as local leaders from the LATF kitty may be set aside “During the rainy season, the resi- seem to have ignored the plight of the to facilitate the construction of the where the illegal trade was thriving. orthodox means to address issues, Mr. The security team was attracted Mudavadi adds that will scare away dents and especially school children residents. said road for easy access,” said the investors. at Mundulusia and Mabale primary “We are appealing to you to inter- two civic leaders. at the site by huge fumes of smoke which to their amusement turned into a chang’aa brewing yard with drums planted on the water for dis- tillation purposes. Natembeya and his deputy OCPD Fall of cement factory causing jitters in Kilifi Misheck Kiptum watched helplessly By BEKADZO TONDO the factory is not in operation’ says Mr ers to ensure all revenue is collected to The chair-lady for the council Es- as brewers took off in fear that the Jilao. bridge the financial gap left by the col- ther Kache decried the town was littered officers had spotted their hideout and Speaking to The Link in his office, lapse of the Mombasa cement factory,” with garbage and urged the council staff KILIFI town council has been losing had come to arrest them. the clerk said the council is now seek- said Mr Jilao. concerned with the general cleaning of “It is a surprise that we came about Kshs2.5 million per month fol- ing other avenues to generate income to The clerk further said the council the town to improve their services. lowing the collapse of the Mombasa Ce- supplement revenue collected through with the support of about 250 traders “Kilifi town which is set to be de- here on a totally different mission ment Company. internal sources. at the Kilifi open air market has demol- veloped into a resort city by 2030 must only to find open brewing dens The Clerk, Mr Ibrahim Jilao, said Mr Jilao said the council has already ished unplanned business structures to be clean and unplanned structures de- along the river banks. Most of the the civic body has been receiving set up a task force to look for other reve- put up well designed market stalls. molished to pave way for well designed brews in Murang’a East are smug- Kshs2.3 million cess fee from the ce- nue sources and beef up the current cess “The demolition of the kiosks was buildings. gled through the river,’ said Natem- ment processing plant every month but collection fees from the bus park and at done voluntarily by the traders after a The chair lady further revealed that beya. since its collapse last month, the com- the quarries. unanimous endorsement by the traders the council intends to undertake a head pany has not remitted any money to the The hideout was spotted mo- He said the councillors had teamed to pave way for the construction of mar- count of its staff to expose ghost work- ments after security officers in local authority. up with the council staff to seal loop- ket stalls,” said Mr Jilao. ers. ‘Mombasa cement company has Mukurwe-ini District apprehended holes that promote losses and ensure ef- Mr. Jilao said once the market stalls Mrs Kache suspected that the coun- brewers from Kirinyaga South Dis- been one of our major sources of rev- fective collection of the revenue. become operational, the council will be cil could be paying salaries to ghost enue but since its collapse last month “We have set up a task force com- able to collect enough revenue and re- workers and the situation will be recti- trict and handed them to the authori- ,the local authority has lost income since prising of council staff and civic lead- store hygienic standards in the town. fied once the head count is conducted. ties. The Link, November 2011 8 EDITORIAL & COMMENTARY The

LinkEnhancing governance for all Kenya risks being a ‘captured state’ ENYA risks losing its credibility and indeed its very soul to criminals, if that have not happened Kalready. The deepening corruption that perme- ates all sectors of society, including religious ones is re- ally disturbing. The country is increasingly becoming a paradise to criminals of all shades and colors. From drug lords, gun runners, armed robbers, kidnappers, money laun- ders, smugglers name them. They have all pitched their COMMENTARY bleeding tents here. It is even more disturbing to note that the criminal underworld has penetrated the country’s key state or- Freedom of information: Africa sees the light gans (legislature, executive and judiciary) if reports on HE right to freedom of information has have been proposed by government bodies and this are anything to go by. The newly published report experienced both successes and adver- COMMENT civil society groups. by the International Peace Institute warns that criminal sity since article 19 last celebrated Right One of the most depressing setbacks over T the past year has been the killings of right to in- activities threaten the very fabric and legitimacy of the to Know Day in 2010. At the international level, the most im- By LUKE KAPCHANGA formation activists in India such as that of Sonu state. portant development has been the growth in Sharma who was hit by a car on 13 February The unfortunate thing is that there are far too many the International Aid Transparency Initiative the first sub-Saharan country to launch the 2011 after her father, Jagdish Sharma submitted willing accomplices within the state institutions. En- (IATI), with 20 organisational signatories Open Data Initiative, and joined Tanzania to a right to information request to find out which demic corruption and powerful transnational criminal and 22 partner countries, including the World formally lodge their letters of intent to be part local officials were siphoning off his pension. networks have entrenched state institutions and eroded Bank, the UK Department for International of the Open Government Partnership (OGP). At least ten right to information activists Development, the United Nations Develop- In September 2011, the Pan-African Con- were killed in similar circumstances, and har- public confidence in them, says the report. ment Programme, and most recently, the Com- ference on Access to Information adopted the assment is increasingly being used to intimidate The report titled “Termites at Work: Transnational monwealth, which has pledged to stand behind African Platform on Access to Information those who submit requests. Organised Crime and State Erosion in Kenya” argues the Initiative. (APAI) – a regional declaration indicating sup- In South Africa, the ruling African National that rampant corruption and impunity have allowed Nearly 50 countries have also joined the port for the right to information principles. The Congress (ANC) party continued to push for the adoption of the Protection of State Informa- criminals to penetrate political institutions and weave Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative APAI elaborates on the right to freedom of in- (EITI), including the United States and 12 formation, and sets out minimum standards for tion bill, which was heavily criticised for inter- powerful criminal networks with links to all important countries have achieved compliance. access to information at a national level. fering with the right to information, but delayed institutions in the country, including parliament. The The Open Government Partnership (OGP) The landmark regional declaration declares its final adoption after large public protests in situation is so serious the report warns of Kenya be- has garnered commitments from over 40 na- that the right to know is vital for good govern- September 2011 tions to improve access to information in their ance and a fundamental right of all people. In Hungary revisions to the Constitution coming a ‘captured state’ just like Russia, Mexico and and the right to information and privacy laws Colombia, among others. countries. In America, the legislative assembly of El There has also been substantial debate on Salvador passed the Law on Access to Public undercut the independence of the Data Protec- If this goes unchecked, activities of the criminal net- the development of new international or re- Information in December 2010, and the Na- tion and Freedom of Information Commission- works could result in the kind of lawlessness that has gional conventions on access to environmental tional Assembly of Guyana approved the Ac- er, while the government of Poland is currently turned many countries into murderous, violent places information for the upcoming UN Summit on cess to Information bill on 15 September. considering amendments to weaken its law. where drug lords and criminals hold organs of the State Sustainable Development in Rio to mark the The National Assembly of Ecuador ap- The European Union Commission contin- twentieth anniversary of the 1992 Earth Sum- proved a law regarding the National Register ues to push for a revision of its internal regula- hostage, a scenario that is just too horrific to imagine. mit. The most substantial national develop- of Published Information. Chile has seen great tions, which will weaken the right of European It is disheartening to note that about ten major inter- ments over the past year have taken place in success in its access to information law, report- citizens to obtain information from EU bodies. national drug trafficking networks, headed mainly by Africa. There are now 10 African countries that ing 53,000 requests in two years. The govern- Several other countries have seen contin- West Africans, but also involving Kenyans are respon- have a law or national regulation establishing ment of Jamaica is considering repealing the ued long term delays in passing bills. While the sible for the bulk of the cocaine and heroin trafficked the right to freedom of information. Official Secrets Act. government of the Philippines has committed President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf signed As one of the founding partners of the OGP, to the OGP, its freedom of information bill re- into and out of the country. The long and short of this is the Liberian Freedom of Information Act in the Brazilian government recently co-launched mains doubtful after 14 years before parliament that there is need for a major cleanup operation to rid October 2010, the first country in West Africa a multilateral initiative aimed at supporting and with a president unwilling to commit. the country of the criminal gangs before it is too late. to adopt a right to information law and after national efforts around the world to promote The Venezuelan government created a Overhauling the police force should be the beginning almost two decades of delay, President Good- transparency, fight corruption, strengthen ac- centre to “compile, analyse and integrate” in- formation in the public interest, but still does point. Kenya needs a clean police force to assist the new luck Johnson signed Nigeria’s 2011 Freedom countability and empower citizens. In sharp of Information Act in May. contrast however, the Brazilian government not have a specific access to information law judiciary in reestablishing people’s confidence in the New national ordinances on access to in- still has not implemented its own national right that secures the right outlined in the country’s country’s justice system. formation have also been adopted in the Re- to information bill. 1999 constitution. Bolivia’s weak bill has been We do not want to see a Kenya where mafia gangs public of Guinea and Niger. After years of In Asia, Mongolia adopted the 2011 Law before parliament for two years but remains inaction, Uganda passed its Access to Informa- on Information Transparency and Freedom of stagnant, and a bill before the government of have control of everything like in Russia where there Argentina remains stalled. are over 8000 murderous gangs controlling almost 75 tion Regulations in April 2011, implementing Information on 16 June. The government of the 2005 Access to Information Act. Cambodia published a draft Law on Access to The Brazilian freedom of information bill, percent of the economy. The African Commission on Human and Information, which has been met with muted predicted to have been enacted in 2011 after The state should study this report and act on it im- Peoples Rights’ Special Rapporteur on Free- praise by international organisations. being approved by almost all government bod- mediately. dom of Expression and Information, Ms Pansy Selangor became the first state in Malay- ies, was delayed at the final stage and is fac- Tlakula, is exploring ways to create a model sia to adopt a freedom of information law on 1 ing significant undermining from a committee freedom of information law to set out best April 2011, and it looks likely that the state of overseen by former president Fernando Collor practices for countries across the continent. Penang may follow in 2012. On 7 June 2010, de Mello. Many other African countries have also Thailand’s Official Information Commission The Sri Lankan parliament, in the after- made progress. The government of Rwanda made a landmark decision that guarantees ac- math of accusations of widespread war crimes, The Link is published has proposed a fairly progressive bill and Ken- cess to information by the public on environ- overwhelmingly rejected a freedom of infor- monthly by the Institute ya has added a freedom of information law to ment and health. Indonesia and the Philippines mation bill put before them by the opposition its list of priority legislation to pass before Au- have recently joined the OGP. United National Party on 21 June 2011. for Civic Affairs and gust 2012. In Senegal, a draft law developed by In Europe, the only substantial develop- The Botswana freedom of information bill, civil society received support from the prime ment is the adoption by Ukraine of the 2011 although weak, remains stuck, and the govern- Development (ICAD) minister and government officials, creating Access to Information law, signed into effect ment has instead issued a directive to all public a national coalition to drive the bill forward. by President Yanokovych on 3 February 2011. servants to sign a declaration committing them Mali and Burkina Faso have started discus- There has also been some progress in the to complete confidentiality. sions on developing laws. development of a bill in Spain to replace the In Paraguay, a bill developed by civil soci- P.O. Box 7438-00200, Nairobi, Kenya. In August 2011, a regional meeting in Nai- country’s weak provisions in its Procedures ety has been approved by the House of Repre- robi resulted in the promise by Kenya, Tanza- Act. sentatives but rejected by the Senate. Tel: 020 6001776 / 020 6001274 nia, Burundi and Rwanda of renewed efforts In the Middle East and North Africa, new The government of Colombia is attempting Email: [email protected] to pass laws, and an undertaking to ensure ef- national ordinances on access to information to severely punish public servants who disclose fective implementation of laws by the govern- were adopted in Tunisia. In Egypt, over a government documents, regardless of public ments of Uganda and Ethiopia. Kenya became dozen variations of access to information bills interest, under the Intelligence Bill. The Link, November 2011 GOVERNANCE 9 LinkThe Kibaki orders ministers to revive KPCU Enhancing governance for all By JOSEPH MUKUBWA

EDITOR PRESIDENT Mwai Kibaki has direct- DANIEL OTUNGE ed the Ministry of Cooperative Devel- opment and the Ministry of Agriculture SUB-EDITOR to work out modalities of reviving the FAITH MUIRURI the cash strapped Kenya Planters Co- operative Union (KPCU) within six ASSOCIATE EDITOR months. OLOO JANAK Speaking at Kabiru-ini grounds in Nyeri during the official opening of this year’s Central ASK show, Kibaki said while the Government has achieved WRITERS much in reviving collapsed agricultural institutions, KPCU remains at risk due MORRIS GITHENYA Central to past mismanagement. 0735 855586 He therefore directed the two min- istries to work out modalities of reviv- JOSEPH MUKUBWA Central ing it within six months. 0724 039787 At the same time, the Head of State directed the Commissioner of Police to work closely with the Ministry of the BEKADZO TONDO Coast Agriculture to eliminate coffee theft 0728 341240 which has become rampant in most parts of Central Province and a threat PETER MUTUKU Eastern to the lives of coffee dealers. 0721 455048 “The coffee theft has become ram- pant and a threat to the lives of coffee KAVYU-KURA Eastern dealers. I direct the commissioner of police to work closely with the Minis- 0721 000000 try of Agriculture to eliminate the men- ace,” he added. BOB OMBATI Nyanza He noted that the economy in Cen- 0728 435255 tral Kenya region is based largely on tea and coffee. OJWANG OGOCH Nyanza “The reforms we have instituted 0725 690223 in these sub sectors have yielded ma- President Kibaki (second right) with Cooperatives Minister Joe Nyaga and Special Programmes minister jor gains. As regards coffee, earnings Esther Murugi at Kabiru-ini grounds in Nyeri during this year’s ASK show. Photo/Joseph Mukubwa have increased tremendously from a NYAKWAR ODAWO Western partly Kshs850 million in year 2006 ernment will construct an addition Kshs8.2 billion. This investment is ties for the youth. We shall also put up 0726 264153 to Kshs3.8 billion last year. The cof- six fresh produce markets at a cost of expected to increase the area under a mini fishing processing unit in Nyeri fee industry in now profitable and I between Kshs30 and Kshs40 million crop from the current 10,000 hectares town to further boost fish farming,” LUKE KAPCHANGA Western urge farmers to increase production by each this financial year. These fresh to 16,000 hectares and benefit over said the Head of State. 0723 622136 adopting recommended crop husband- produce markets will go a long way in 20,000 farmers,” Kibaki said. He therefore urged the youth to ry practices,” he added. meeting the need for a clean environ- The Government has also stepped take up the fish farming business and Kibaki was accompanied by Coop- ment for fresh horticultural products,” up measures to promote fish farming benefit from the proposed fish process- AGGREY BUCHUNJU Western eratives Minister Joe Nyaga, Special said the Head of State. throughout the country. ing unit. 0733 537002 programmes Minister Esther Murugi On rice farming, the farmers from “In this region, 300 fish ponds have Affordable electric power has also and Kieni MP Nemesyus Warugongo the region earned Sh 5.2 billion last been constructed in each of the 29 con- been set up with 3, 882 public facili- JOEL JUMA Western among others. On horticulture, small year up from Sh 3.3 billion the previ- stituencies in the last two years. To fur- ties in Central Kenya are targeted for 0723 622136 scale farmers in Central Province ous year. ther promote fish farming, the Govern- electrification by next year. earned Kshs14.5 billion compared to “To further increase rice produc- ment is funding construction of three So far 3, 286 or 85 per cent of the Kshs10 billion in year 2006. tion, we have started the construction shallow dams in every constituency facilities among them 1, 818 trading LAYOUT AND DESIGN: “To further promote horticultural of a water reservoir and expansion of in the region. We expect these dams centers have been connected to the na- production in this region, my Gov- Mwea Irrigation Scheme at a cost of to avail new employment opportuni- tional grid. WALTON DESIGNS 0725 903 938 [email protected] Hard look at Bungoma County’s prospects By AGGREY BUCHUNJU ices and tourism as some of the sec- development. There are only 500 police officers in tors that can provide ideal investment “High quality manpower con- the entire county. BUNGOMA County may face so opportunities in the county. sistent with the county’s natural re- This means that one police officer many hurdles in her development en- He however, pointed out that for sources and requirements need to is supposed to guard 3,200 people. deavours. these investment opportunities to be be developed through the establish- The internationally recommended The problems came to the fore re- fruitful and propel the county to pros- ment of more polytechnics, colleges standard ration is 1:450. cently during a forum organized by perity, there must be a development of technology and technical training One of the participants of the fo- the National Cohesion and Devolu- framework and a central planning au- institutions alongside university,” he rum Mr. Wabwoba Mukhamule em- tion at a Bungoma hotel. thority for Bungoma County. said. phasized the need to revise commu- This Newspaper appreciates A development framework, Mr. Low levels of local entrepreneur- nity policing approach. the facilitation accorded by The forum, whose main objective was to enhance stakeholders’ engage- Wafula said involves deciding how ship, insufficient investment capital, Mr. Mukhamule argued that in- the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung ment with the challenges and op- factors of production (land, labour insecurity, corruption, political pa- clusion of retired police officers in (KAS) in Kenya portunities that come with devolved and capital) will be allocated among tronage and HIV/AIDS were also the programme worsen the situation governance in counties, was facilitat- different industries or sectors in the identified as some of the challenges since the officers are in most cases ed by Friedrich Ebert Shifting (FES). County. that may hamper development. accused of complicity in robbery Participants at the two day fo- This, he claimed is a technique Other identified challenges were crimes. Mrs. Alice Sitawa, a partici- All correspondence and rum noticed that although there are aimed at achieving certain pre-de- leadership wrangles, political dishon- pant from Mt. Elgon said improve- many investment opportunities in termined and well defined aims and esty and treachery, ethnic biasness, ment of infrastructure should be enquiries to the editor, Bungoma County, the challenges are objectives as laid down by a central conflict over land use, poor transport given top priority in Mt. Elgon to planning authority. and communication network, land alleviate marketing of farm produce. P.O. Box 7438, 00200, equally many. One of the facilitators, Mr. David Consequently, Mr. Wafula under- fragmentation and high costs of farm She also called for positive so- Nairobi, Kenya. Wafula said that investment oppor- scored the need for a central planning inputs. cialization of the people of Mt. Elgon tunities in Bungoma County can be authority to harmonize development Bungoma County covers an area in order to achieve peaceful co-exist- Tel: 020 6001274 identified by examining and under- in the county and avoid duplication of 3,031.2 square kilometers with ence in the area. standing the structure and function- of efforts. a population of 1.6 million people. Mrs. Sitawa at the same time ap- Telefax: 020 6001776 ing of its economy. Mr. Wafula however observed Its annual population growth is 4.3 pealed to Bungoma county residents Mr. Wafula identified agriculture, that lack of adequate trained person- percent this being one of the highest to change their perception of leaders e-mail: [email protected] manufacturing industries, building nel may be an impediment to the har- rates in the country. from being hand out givers to policy and construction, provision of serv- nessing of the county’s resources for Security in the county is wanting. makers. 10 The Link, November 2011 GOVERNANCE

Nambale Bahari resident outlines priority Kieni West DC bans happy with CDF activities to fund By BEDKAZO TONDO By NYAKWAR ODAWO brews packed in plastics NAMBALE Constituency Develop- RESIDENTS of Ngerenyi location ment Fund (CDF) Committee plans By JOSEPH MUKUBWA bottles to conceal poisonous con- brews,” said Mohammed. in Bahari Constituency have bene- to spend a total of Kshs72.1million tents which resulted in unwarrant- Limbitu called upon the bar fited immensely from CDF alloca- in the current financial year to com- KIENI West DC Abdi Mohammed ed loss of lives “Bar owners must owners to ensure that they work tions in the past four years. plete projects identified during the has banned the sale of all plastic now sell what is fit for human con- within the stipulated drinking The residents say that they have managed to get several projects 2010/2011 financial year. packed alcohol in the district. sumption,” he said. hours or face the law. Addressing stakeholders during a Speaking recently after a meet- “The law is very clear that funded through both the CDF and The DC who was speaking dur- Local Authority Transfer Fund District Executive Committee meet- ing with Central PC Kiplimo Ru- bars are only allowed to operate ing recently, the Nambale CDF Com- ing a meeting with over 100 bar (LATF) disbursed by Kilifi County mittee chairman Joshua Mulesi said owners from Mweiga area said gut, the administrator said that between 5pm to11pm during the Council. that among the projects earmarked that it now illegal to package alco- the government is exploring ways working days and 2pm to 11pm on Led by the area Councillor to benefit from the funding include hol in plastic bottles. through which deaths can be pre- holidays and weekends. Operators Elvis Gambo Mwambeni, the resi- infrastructure, health facilities, bur- Mohammed who was ac- vented. This comes after over 30 are only allowed one hour grace dents say that community projects saries and agriculture. companied by Nyeri Police boss people died in Central Kenya after period after closing hours after in the ward have been funded to the Other projects set to be undertak- Kirunya Limbitu warned those taking illicit brews in the past one which operation fagia becomes ef- tune of Kshs 20 million through en by the CDF committee include the who will be found selling alcohol month. fective,” said the police boss. both the two devolved funds d over construction of cattle dips in various in plastic containers will be ar- “The patrons in the bar today The two who were speak- the same period. locations in the constituency consid- rested and charged in court and the should not be deaths of tomorrow. ing when they read the Alcoholic Most of the funding has been ering that the region is highly infested We want to chat the way forward Drinks Control Act 2010 unto the channelled towards the education by tsetse fly that have adversely af- alcohol destroyed. fected the livestock sector. The administrator noted that and put up short term and long bar owners maintained that the sector where classrooms, laborato- The CDF chairman at the same some traders were packaging le- term measures to ensure that not crackdown on illicit brews will ries and toilets have been built. time said there is need to involve thal products in attractive plastic a single person dies over lethal continue. Area MP Fundi Gunda said technical departments to conduct fea- classrooms were built to create sibility studies prior to the implemen- room for the large number of stu- tation process to ensure that identified dents enrolled in local schools. projects are sustainable and viable The MP who spoke at Ngerenyi and enjoy ownership by respective secondary school, said the school communities. The chairman said a to- was built at a cost of Kshs 16 mil- tal of Kshs4.6million will oversee the lion using CDF funds. completion of various health facilities The MP who attended the initiated during the last two financial meeting donated an additional years. Kshs3 million through the CDF to Mulesi said the fund commit- aid in the construction of a labora- tee had approved a proposal by the tory at the school. The area council- residents requesting them to allocate lor said Kilifi County Council dis- funds towards the construction of bursed Kshs 1million to the school the health centers. The CDF chair- through LATF which was used to man had lamented that majority had buy desks for Ngerenyi secondary to walk for long distances to access health facilities such as Nambale school while another Kshs 500,000 Health centre and Busia district hos- was spent in the construction of an pital even when faced with emergen- Administration Block for Ezamoyo cies. “Majority of the constituents primary school had proposed that funds be allocated Lutsangani Secondary School to facilitate the construction of health received Kshs2.4 million to aid in centres at the grassroots level in order the construction of two classrooms to bring essential services closer to and a computer laboratory. the people considering that majority Other areas that have been of them are residing far away from funded include the office of the major health centres,” he said. provincial administration where The limited number of health fa- funds have been used to construct cilities in the area had forced expect- an office for the chief and toilets. ant mothers to seek the services of Water projects have also re- traditional birth attendants who are ceived funding which has gone inexperienced hence leads to the high into the construction of a new maternal mortality rates, he added. pipeline and water tanks. Funding Busia District Medical Officer Kieni West district bar owners listen keenly during a meeting called by area DC Abdi Mohammed at in the health sector has been used of Health Dr Evans Kiplagat on his in the construction of health cent- part commended the Nambale CDF Mweiga Catholic hall recently. Photo/Joseph Mukubwa committee for the gesture saying the ers. Councillor Mwambeni said move was timely and go along way in Kshs 2.1 million went towards the decongesting Busia District Hospital construction of a maternity wing which served patients from across the at Ngerenyi dispensary. He said border of Kenya and Uganda. Lurambi MP moves to assuage critics the project was initially allocated “Busia District hospital also Kshs800,000 but later received ad- serves patients from across the border By AGGREY BUCHUNJU who is also gender and children with the MP. ditional Kshs 1.3 million from the of Busia Kenya and Uganda consider- assistant minister is placed in The residents led by ODM CDF to oversee its completion. ing that the nearest hospital in Busia LURAMBI Constituency De- Lurambi constituency. leader Mr. Amos Oyalo accuse He said the Sosoyo water (Uganda) is Tororo which is miles velopment Fund Committee His critics and in particular the MP of doing nothing to im- project was a joint initiative by the away from the boarder,” said the (CDFc) has disbursed a total of Navakholo residents read mis- prove infrastructural develop- CDF which donated Kshs 5 million medical officer of health. However, Kshs. 3.2 million to some sec- chief in his allocation of the pub- ment in the area, particularly while LATF gave Kshs 500,000 to he urged expectant mothers to desist ondary schools and a health fa- lic resources in the constituency. roads. buy a water tank to serve the area. from seeking the services of tradition- cility in Navakholo District. During the May meeting All the roads in the region ac- The civic leader who is also a al birth attendants as they lacked ex- The disbursement of the cash at Chebuyusi high school, the cording to Mr. Oyalo are visibly member of the Bahari CDF com- pertise in handling emergency cases. comes barely four months after stakeholders led by Mount impassable especially during the mittee said that only projects that Among the health centres funded had been prioritized by the com- by the Nambale CDF committee education stakeholders accused Kenya university dean, school rainy season. the CDFc of bias against the area of Law Prof. Moni Wekesa said munity received funding. include Kisoko dispensary which The schools that benefited Meanwhile Lutsangani Sec- has been allocated Kshs 0.4mil- when it comes to public resourc- that there was wide disparity in from the recent allocation of lion, Lwanyange dispensary –Kshs es allocation including. the allocation of CDF among the ondary school requires additional CDF money in the new district classrooms to cater for the large 0.6million, Malanga dispensary- Local education stakehold- constituency’s three administra- are as follows;- Kshs0.5million, Nasira dispensary- ers had in May this year accused number of students in the school. tive divisions. l Namirama Girls - Kshs. 700,000 The school’s PTA chairman Kshs 0.4million, Buyofu dispen- area MP Manyala Keya of fa- They claimed that Navakholo sary-Kshs0.5million, Musokoto l Chebuyusi Boys - Kshs. 700,000 Joseph Masha said the school also vouring Lurambi and municipal- division had then been allocated l Namundera Mixed - Kshs. 300,000 lacks enough houses to accommo- dispensary-Kshs0.5million, Igara dis- ity divisions at the expense of pensary-Kshs0.3million,Nasewa dis- a paltry Kshs. 600,000 out of l Sidikho Mixed - Kshs. 300,000 date teachers in the school, a com- pensary –Kshs 0.3million, Muyafwa Navakholo division. over Kshs. 80 million the CDFc l Sivilie Mixed - Kshs. 300,000 puter lab, dining hall, a library and dispensary-Kshs 0.5million, Bu- Navakholo division has since had received from the treasury. l Mungakha Mixed - Kshs. 300,000 enough toilets. kalama dispensary-Kshs0.3million been elevated to district status Despite the fact that the re- l Sienga Mixed – Kshs. 300,000 He appealed to well-wishers to with Burumba dispensary in Busia and is one of the 80 newly cre- cent allocation of CDF cash in The only health facility which assist equip the school with basic municipality getting Kshs 0.3million ated constituencies across the the area is an improvement over benefited for the CDF kitty is Kha- facilities as most parents are faced to facilitate in the completion of on- country. the previous allocations, the res- randa dispensary. It was also allo- with financial constraints and can- going projects. The current area MP Mr. Keya idents still have a bone to pick cated Kshs.300,000. not afford to meet the extra costs. The Link, November 2011 CITIZENS’ WATCH 11 @

Cheating in Our MPs are wasting time and exams reflects Develop other cities to tax payers’ money HARDLY almost four years after the depravity in disputed General Elections, are our decongest Nairobi politicians once again setting their society sights on the next one in 2012? A WHOOPING Kshs.200 billion is How inconsiderate can they be! THE approach of national ex- needed to decongest Nairobi and re- It is quite shameful for them to begin aminations should not be the store its green ciy in the sun reputa- thinking of their selfish political sur- tion of yesteryears. Part of the plan vival, yet some Kenyans are still inter- anxiety-filling phenomenon it entails replacing old residential estates appears to candidates, teachers, nally displaced, and the sad memories which occupy prime areas close to the of the barbaric killings of our fellow parents or guardians. Central Business District like Kalo- Kenyans are still fresh in our hearts. An exam is a tool used to leni, Shaurimoyo, Ziwani, Bahati and The formation of the grand coali- determine how much and how Ngara. The idea will also see update of tion government was based on the well, teaching and learning had infrastructure and revolutionize trans- principle of reconciliation and the been conducted. Psychologists portation system. It is good that plans realisation that we went wrong and have, over the years, develop for an efficient commuter system are so we need to accept one another as fool-proof techniques to guide also already in top gear. The ultra- brother and sister. It really hurts to see politicians education. There is, therefore, modern commuter rail system and the massive alteration of roads network meeting in the constituencies in the no basis for the fear with which will see the agony of traffic jams elimi- name of becoming together. Pray, some candidates, teachers, par- nated. The idea of major make over is what in particular they celebrate! ents, guardians and schools ap- not new and is merely being revisted. Their success of lying to wananchi proach a national examination. Kenyans might recall such a plan was that they will bring ‘development’, or Some look for ways to access mooted in the mid 90s but was allowed is it that they have been holing them- to die quietly. papers a few days or hours be- selves up in Nairobi since the forma- At that time, Egyptian construction tion of coalition government and now Motorists on a finished section of Thika Road, Nairobi as work continues. fore candidates sit for them. giants Arab Contractors was said to they feel they are strangers back in This behaviour implies some have ben the front runner in undertak- We all understand the pressure that Malili and serious thought to upgrad- their constituencies? students are poorly prepared, ing the massive project. Nairobi has is brought to bear arising from rural ing other urban centres far away from If they were mindful of develop- hence lack the confidence need- over time suffered from inadequate to urban poverty flight and the subse- Nairobi. I have in mind Isiolo or Mar- ment as they claim to be, they would planning, inefficient land use and ed to face exams. Alternatively, quent negative consequences. sabit because of the immense potential put the money they spend on those wrong land tenure policies. However, both central and local both have to open up the vast northern parties to better use, like paying for students had low motivation to The cumulative results have seen government authorities have not made Kenya. school fees for poor students in their learn because, with sufficient an explosion in expansion of slums the situation any better by allowing The point is that even as City Hall and other informal settlements, lead- constituencies. motivation, they would either uncontrolled mushrooming of slums. keeps an eye on ensuring that Nairobi My own MP being seen once in a have made student complaints ing to suffocating congestion. The Kibera takes the dubious distinction of remains a top city, the government downward spiral was catalysed when year since the election. We need de- about poor teaching or taken being the largest such slum in the con- should train their eyes on other urba local authorities overwhelmed by rural tinent and has lately been turned into centres. The economic benefits arising velopment badly. an individual interest in their to urban migration disengaged from something of a subject of curiosity for from such a move will be tremendous To add salt to injury, these politi- studies. This would have obvi- construction of residential housing tourists and visiting dignitaries. and what is more, it is bound to en- cians use those to groom their party ated the anxiety that pervades leaving the responsibility to private Urban planning is saddled by nu- hance equity and spread wealth. candidate for the next General Elec- schools during exams. developers. merous challenges not least because of Recently, Nairobi experienced tion. Unfortunately, this move alo in- Some have even gone a notch Motivation refers to willing- the big financial base needed to ensure tragedies in the form of slum fire that vited land acquisition and construction planned and orderly husing develop- killed over 100 people. There were higher to say that certain ethnic com- ness to act towards a valued frenzy without proper planning and ment. It is because of this reason that also deaths arising from collapsing munities will unite to get the needed goal. Apart from intrinsic fac- infrastructural development. the proposed update scheme in excitig. buildings under construction all tes- numerical strength to beat candidates tors, extrinsic or external fac- Today a number of housing estates Nairobi’s lost allure can be restored timony to laxity of standards the city from other groups. tors also motivate any normal which initially had been meticulously with plans such as restoration of the suffers from. Kibera alone with an area Funny enough, this is done with planned have suffered defacement student. Recognition or approv- old estates. of 700 hectares reputedly has over one the full knowledge that it is he same through uncoordinated extensions, However, even as decongesting million residents. al from teachers, the promise of ethnic chauvinism that threatened to turning some residential areas into Nairobi is planned, it might be a good Mathew Mutula, tear our dear country apart in 2007. good grades and other rewards slums. idea to give priority to technocity like Via e-mail. In my view, this is a period when can sustain effort in learning. every Kenyan should be on his/her Confusion of purpose and knees praying to God for peace to low ambition among most stu- reign again to our country. dents is what causes them to Otherwise, if our politicians keep wake up to the reality of an on dividing us, I am afraid that we are approaching national examina- destined for the same situation that we were in 2007/2008. tions unprepared. Hence a fear Concerned Kenyan, of examinations. Hence a de- Naivasha. sire to cheat. Some unscrupulous people feed on this confusion of pur- pose. The complicity of stu- dents, parents and teachers re- flects the moral depravity that pervades other aspects of our * society, including a political The editor welcomes letters and culture of reaping where we comments on a variety of issues. never sowed. The letters should be brief, topical and issue based. Cheats never prosper. A stu- The editor reserves the right to dent who got prior access to ex- edit for brevity or clarity. aminations lives with that lie, that hypocrisy until they die. Write to: Teach that to all students. The Editor, Concerned Kenyan, The Link, Kisumu City. P.O. Box 7438 – 00200, Nairobi. E-mail: [email protected] 12 The Link, November 2011 GOVERNANCE

Kenneth calls Kisii leaders for peaceful State to improve wants debt cancelled coexistence By BOB OMBATI By MORRIS GITHENYA sanitation of markets OVER 10 civic leaders in Kisii Mu- WITH general election drawing close, By KAVYU-KURA circuit cameras for night security sur- should be completed toward the end nicipal council want the government a cross section of leaders in the country veillance. “The security systems will of November but the work appear to to waive Kshs. 23 million loan owed have embarked on campaigns to sensi- THE government has earmarked also be connected to police stations for have fallen behind schedule,” lament- to the National Housing Corporation tize the public on need to remain united Kshs320 million to assist in the im- back up,” he explains. ed Nzoka. to save it from bankruptcy. irrespective of their ethnic background. provement of the working environ- He added that Data collected by He also reminded the contractors Mayor Alloys Moseti says the Planning and National Develop- ment for small scale traders in Kitui CCTV cameras may also be stored in of the need to ensure the 25 percent of highly indebted civic authority is cash ment Peter Kenneth has been preaching strapped and cannot be able to service peace urging Kenyans to use the existing County before the end of the current the outer space to minimize interfer- the each site is planted with grass and the debt which has appreciated due to mechanisms in resolving their differ- fiscal year. ence by hackers and vandals. trees not only to abide by the Nema the high interest rates. ences. The Director of Markets Patrick The director who was received requirement but to make the places Moseti says the council is indebt- Gatanga Mp has been in Nyanza, Mutua Nzoka said recently that the by the chairperson of the Mwingi beautiful, attractive and hospitable. ed to the tune of Kshs250 million and Coast, Rift Valley and Western Kenya government was keen at availing se- County Council Town planning and The director asked the local au- has missed out on this year’s Local emphasizing on the need for Kenyans to cure, clean and environmentally con- markets committee, Wanza Kimondiu thorities under whose jurisdiction the Authority Transfer Fund ( LATF) al- embrace peace and support development ducive trading environment for small and in Kitui by the County Council modern markets were being put up location until it clears the outstanding programmes. income traders to create wealth and Chairman Cllr. Nzyoni Mung’uye ex- to invite local entrepreneurs to fund statutory debts. “We must remain united at all times improve family incomes. pressed concern that the contractors the construction of shops commonly The mayor was briefing Housing as nobody will be rewarded for fighting minister, Soita Shitanda who paid him his neighbour. There is need for toler- “We are seeking to help Kenyans would not be able beat projects com- known as lock-ups around the mar- a courtesy call before the commis- ance as there are mechanisms that can be in the low income bracket to engage pletion deadlines. kets to help enhance security. sioning of phase one of 40, two-bed used locally in resolving disputes,” said in business by ensuring that areas des- He noted that the works moved at “The local authorities should al- roomed Housing units funded by the Kenneth. ignated for business are secure and of very slow pace. “Although the qual- locate the small plots for the shops Corporation at Nyanchwa Estate, Kisii At the same time, fifteen members high sanitary standards,” said Mutua ity of the work is pretty impressive, I around the market sites to capable town. The minister advised the coun- of parliament across the political divide during a tour of modern markets un- am dismayed by the sluggish pace at merchants who should put up struc- cil to allocate NHC land in exchange have joined the fray in drumming up der construction at Matuu, Nguni and which the contractors are doing the tures that conform to the design and of a waiver as it was hard to write off support for Kenyan unity. Kabati towns in eastern province. work. The Kabati contractor is ex- standard of the markets. Experts at my the debt since the funds were exter- The team identifying itself as right He pointed out that the upcom- pected to complete the work by end office will do the design and costing,” nally sourced. minded Kenyans led by Maragua Mp ing markets will be fitted with close of October while the Nguni works said Mr. Nzoka. Shitanda, who was accompanied Elias Mbau says the country must re- by the Corporation’s board chairman, main united to help attain the social, Bosire Ogero among other officials political and economic pillars outlined in urged the council to give both his min- Vision 2030. istry and the Local Government a go Others members of the team included head to draft a cabinet memo which is Daniel Muoki (Mwala), Muturi Mwangi to be presented to parliament for ap- (Kiharu), Maina Kamau (Kandara), proval to hasten the process. Clement Wambugu (Mathioya), Alex The councillors however said the Mpuri (Tharaka Nithi) among others council was unable to establish an from counties of Nakuru and Kitui. open air market to ease congestion The group plans to visit all parts of within the town centre since the land the country to preach unity and urge between the bus park and Kisii town Kenyans to nurture peace. was still owned by the government. “Our main agenda is to help Ken- “We appeal to the government to yans to learn to coexist peacefully ir- surrender the land so that we can put respective of their ethnic background up the market and expand facilities to during the electioneering period,” said cope with the town’s increased popu- Mbau who is the team leader. lation and economic activities,” said Meanwhile, a spate of robberies and Moseti, stressing Kisii town was an murders targeting motor cycle operators economic hub in Nyanza region. has raised alarm in Murang’a region. The leaders told the minister that In the last one year, tens of operators the council had allocated part of the have been found murdered and their mo- land to the judiciary to pave way for tor cycles missing after they are hired by the construction of law courts but the passengers who turn killers and robbers. project has not taken off since the land The latest incident involved Njuguna belongs to the government. Mbugua who was allegedly hired by a The minister told managers of lo- male passenger to take him to Irembu cal authorities to protect public land village before he was shortly found mur- which will be used in the development dered and motor cycle missing. of county government’s infrastructural As the incidents go up, operators and social facilities by 2013 when they plan to withdraw their services at night will be operational. Moseti told the in efforts to stem the spate of murders. Cllr Mung’uye, Director of Markets Mr. Patrick Nzoka (centre) and Arch. Nugi (right) addressing a minister that the council was repos- stakeholders meeting at the Kabati. Photo/Kavyu-Kura sessing all illegally acquired land and assured him the council has adequate land for future development. Shitanda said his ministry will Otuoma speaks on compilation of youth data handle policy issues while the county governments will deal with Housing By JOEL JUMA the introduction of the devolved were not using the funds to pro- erations. development under the new constitu- system of Government from next mote ventures by young people. Shimaka and Nandwa said old tion and urged the civic leaders to em- THE Government has started year. He disclosed that Kakamega guards should pull out of politics brace changes under the new law. He compiling data to determine the Otuoma explains that District County has received over Kshs90 to give room to the young peo- said the NHC will build more Hous- number of youth in all the 47 Youths officers and the department million with over 3,100 groups ple contesting in the next polls to ing units in phase two, adding that cur- Counties. of Registration of persons will col- benefiting from the kitty. avoid unnecessary competition rently it was implementing 90 similar Sports and Youth Affairs laborate in the compilation of the Otuoma was speaking at in the campaigns. projects in 90 towns countrywide. minister Paul Otuoma says some data to enable the Government plan Kakamega Muliro Gardens during Mwandale challenged local The demand for housing, noted the minister was increasing adding Counties have failed to incor- for their inclusion in key decision the opening of the Youth Enterprise authorities to set aside land for that currently Kakamega town had a porate youths in their planning making organs in the Counties. Fund meeting for the stakeholders youths to put up stalls. He ex- shortage of 9000 houses following the programmes because they do not The minister also challenges drawn from the nine constituencies plained that some youths were establishment of Masinde Muliro Uni- have their data. other Government departments of the Kakamega County. not able to invest in commercial versity, which has pushed the demand “It is sad that the ongoing to give youths tenders for them to The National Youth Enterprise activities due to lack of space in upwards. “Kakamega town has only consultative meetings on how generate income. Fund Chief Executive Officer trading centres. 3000 houses as opposed to the 12,000 the Counties will operate are He says that youth run compa- (CEO) Mwatata Mwandale and He added that the fund was housing units required to meet the de- leaving out the youth,” laments nies should be awarded tenders by the Western Upper Regional Com- ready to profile and train youths mand,” said Shitanda, adding some Otuoma. both private and public bodies to missioner Peter Okwanyo also ad- on how to explore investment students and residents were forced to stay in slums due to the shortage in Otuoma says that the youth in improve their financial bases. dressed the meeting opportunities in various Counties decent houses. the country account for over 12 Otuoma reveals that the govern- The Kakamega County Coun- in the country. He said the Corporation was con- million of the total population, ment has disbursed over Kshs4.5 cil Chairman John Shimaka and He said that fund was partner- structing 1300 houses in Kibera slums and therefore it is imperative to billion to youths since the incep- his Butere/Mumias counterpart ing with financial institutions to near schools, markets and health facil- establish their numbers at the tion of the Youth Entreprise Fund Modekai Nandwa said it was unfair train the youth on formulation ities through private partnership with county level to assist in planning (YEF) in the country adding that it for MPs to cling on power without of proposals for their investment similar projects being implemented at and allocation of resources after was sad that some constituencies giving room to the upcoming gen- and funding. Mavoko County in partnership with Iranian investors. The Link, November 2011 GOVERNANCE 13 Implementation of Vision 2030 Kibunjia assures Kenyans in top gear By PETER MUTUKU on election violence THE implementation of the country’s development blueprint, the Vision 2030 development strategy is in top By JOSEPH MUKUBWA at ICC court adding that they will on how to report from the hot spot the issues to ensure the issues are gear. have to ensure that measures are areas. addressed,” added the Commis- The strategy aims at making THE National Cohesion and In- put in place in case there will be Commissioner Nderitu said sioner. Kenya a newly industrialized, middle tegration Commission chairman some people who will be made an- Kenyans have been put into open She added that they have re- income country providing high qual- Mzalendo Kibunjia has assured swerable to the charges. dialogue over the ICC tension add- ceived several complaints about ity of life for its citizens by the year Kenyans that strategies have been He added that the issue of tribal ing that such complaints have been universities which appear to pro- 2030, through its Economic, Social put in place to ensure no violence animosity must be brought to an reported to the Commission. mote ethnicity and have therefore and Political pillars. will erupt during the next general end. Kibunjia urged politicians to “We have also engaged com- engaged the Ministry of Higher The country has registered a de- elections. be in the fore front in campaigning munities from several areas in Education to ensure that all staffs cline in poverty index from 56 per- Kibunjia who was speaking in for peace during their campaigns. the country over stereotyping. We and students are from different cent in 2000 to 45.9 percent in 2006, Nyeri town after a one -day- peace Journalists will also be trained shall later hold a conference over parts of the country. attributable to improved governance forum attended by leaders from and management of public resources Central Kenya said the commis- and implementation of key reforms sion is working on strategies that in various sectors of the economy. In 2002, when Narc took over will ensure no violence in 2012. power Free Primary Education “We are working on an early was introduced by President Mwai warning, early response especial- Kibaki. The National Gross Enrol- ly in hot spot areas to ensure that ment in Primary school rose from there will be peace before and after 93 percent in 2002 to 107.7 percent the polls expected next year. We in 2007 while the Net Enrolment rate are speaking to communities tell- for 2006 was 86 .5 percent attributed ing them that this is an event just to the introduction of Free Primary like any other,” said the chairman. Education. He said an SMS number will be Policy and institutional arrange- made public where everybody can ments have been strengthened in the report any kind of conflict if it oc- gender sector to promote women par- curs in their areas. ticipation in development, including “Kenyans have said never the establishment of the ministry and again. This SMS will be free and commission in charge of gender is- anybody from any network can sues. report any kind of violence. From Affirmative action has also been there, the authorities can deal with introduced in the recruitment and it. The process of healing and rec- promotions of personnel in the public onciliation is still ongoing,” he sector. added. On the health front, the govern- ment has increased the coverage on Kibunjia who was accompanied immunization to over 80 percent and by Commissioner Alice Nderitu facilities have improved in public added that they are engaging sev- health centres and drug accessibility. eral communities in peace forums The successful implementation of especially after the Hague Six re- the MDG based Economic Recovery turned to the Country. Strategy has seen immunization cov- The chairman regretted that erage rise to 72 percent in 2007. tension had started building up About 68 percent of children un- in some areas in the country dur- der- five years are also receiving bed ing the confirmation of the cases Some of the participants who attended peace conference at a Nyeri hotel recently. Photo/Joseph Mukubwa nets to protect them against mosqui- toes that facilitate the spread of ma- laria. The ring fencing policy on the budget expenditure on health projects Kiambere sacks staff from TARDA has helped improve maternal health care. Ring fencing is the case where- By KAVYU-KURA re-apply for jobs with the company The terse letters of termination of by the agreed allocations to a particu- insisting that they were employees of services, are copied to the TANATH lar sector remain the same no matter THE fate of ten employees of the Tana TARDA and their contracts had not BOARD and TARDA Chief execu- what happens to the revenue. While and Athi River Development Authority been legally terminated. tive officers and read in part, “...... this other sectors may experience cuts in (TARDA) hangs in the balance after As the axe fell on the ten with the is to inform you that your services to budgets, the ring fencing protects the the Mwingi based Kiambere Water and KMWSCO management accusing KMWSCO have been terminated with Health, Education and Poverty sec- Sanitation Company (KMWSCO) ter- them of gross misconduct after they effect from 1st October 2011.” tors from such cuts. The proportion minated their services. skipped a staff vetting exercise. “Arrange to hand over to your of births attended by skilled health The employees are part of the initial The KMWSCO managing direc- immediate supervisor any company personnel increased from 42 percent 14 employees seconded by TARDA to tor Paul Kinuba wrote letters to the property in your possession and vacate in 2003 to 56 percent by 2007. KMWSCO two years ago to help im- affected workers asking them to show company offices and work stations by Adopted by the world leaders in prove management of the pipeline that cause why they should not be summar- 3rd October 2011. Note and act accord- the year 2000 and set to be achieved that supplies water to about 50,000 ily dismissed but the workers were not ingly.” added MD Kinuba. residents. by 2015, the Millennium Develop- bothered by the MD’s prodding thus Although some of the dismissed ment Goals (MDGs) provide con- The employees resisted the move leading to the eventual termination of staff said that their sacking was likely to second them to KMWSCO and pro- their services to disrupt waters supply, as those left crete, numerical benchmarks for ceeded to file a case in court to have the The Link established in early Oc- did not have the technical expertise to tackling extreme poverty in its many decision reversed or formalised with tober that all the 10 workers who had run the Kiambere-Mwingi water pipe- dimensions. benefits being paid to them if they were been seconded to the KMWSCO by line that has already suffered a major The MDGs also provide a frame- to be taken over by a new employer. TARDA through TANATHI Water KMWSCO MD Paul Kinuba. breakdown causing acute water prob- work for the entire international com- But even before the case was de- Board skipped the vetting and thus lems, Mulyungi dismissed it as wish- munity to work together towards a termined, the employees-at least ten resulting to the radical decision by the to vacate offices and hand over to im- ful. common end and making sure that of them have been sacked after they KMWSCO board to terminate their mediate supervisors by October 3. “I can assure you there will be no human development reaches every- differed with the management of services. While confirming the dismissal, the crises following the removal of the 10 one, everywhere. KMWSCO over the status of their em- The affected workers received their KMWSCO board chairman Josphat workers. Already the TANATHI has If the goals are achieved, world ployment. letters of termination of service from Mulyungi said that an earlier decision posted technical expert to man the wa- poverty will be cut by half, tens of Trouble for the TARDA employ- the KMWSCO MD Kinuba dated Sep- not to pay the errant staff their Sep- ter pump at the Kiambere dam water millions of lives will be saved and ees started when they were invited and tember 30 informing them that their tember salaries has been revoked and intake and normal water supply will billions more people will have the declined a KMWSCO staff vetting services had been terminated with ef- they will now get the pay as a send off resume once the pump is repaired,” gesture. opportunity to benefit from the glo- exercise which would have seen them fect from October 1 and were expected Mulyungi told The Link. bal economy.

The Link, November 2011 SUPPLEMENT 15

PARTNERSHIP FOR PEACE A monthly supplement funded by the European Union and Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Security begins with you AM writing this col- MANAGER’S COLUMN can return to gone on well as planned in the The venue will soon be communi- umn with a heavy the region, project. In the last one month cated to you. I heart. This is be- it’s vital for we have held communication The coordination office appre- cause many Kenyan have the public and coordination meetings where ciates your unwavering support lost their lives while sev- By to remain our networks were introduced to and cooperation and it’s our sin- eral others are nursing JANE calm and Frontline SMS and Crowd Map- cere hope that positive impacts serious injuries due to v i g i l a n t ping technologies for crisis re- of the project will continued to terrorist acts of mindless, MURUTU since se- sponse. In addition, the networks be experienced in future. You heartless people who curity be- shared experiences on coordina- need to practice what you have have no respect for hu- gins with tion and networking, challenges learned through the project. man life. you as an and lessons learnt. We are aware that the net- In the neighboring Somalia, individual. Let us desist from In the first week of November works need to be strengthened the Kenyan Army soldiers have spreading fear, rumours and pan- in conjunction with the Ministry further. We are optimistic that put their lives on line in an oper- ic, especially on social network of Justice and National Cohesion, the structures created through ation dubbed Linda Nchi (protect media. But most importantly, the we held the second set of the partnership for peace will be ac- the nation)targeting Al Shabab AlShabab militia should lay down Provincial Dialogue meetings in tive, united in purpose to rally the insurgents who are known for their arms and embrace dialogue Nakuru, Kisumu and Kakamega communities they work with in killing, maiming and kidnapping as the best means of settling dis- respectively to generate feed- order to realize lasting peace innocent civilians in Somali and putes. back to the draft cohesion policy. and security to this nation. the entire Eastern Africa region. Meanwhile, as we approach the We are waiting to hold a final Na- As Sir Winston Churchill once As Kenyan authorities try to end of the year, we are happy to tional Policy Dialogue meeting in said “It’s not enough that we do stabilize Somalia so that peace note that almost everything has Nairobi, on the 8th of December. our best; sometimes we have to do what’s required.”

The writer is the Co-Manager of the Eldoret hosts final Rift Valley peace meeting Partnership for Peace Project. For comments or suggestions write to: BY JOSEPH AWUONDO they had attended several events The network and the District Offices [email protected] on invitation by other organizations, had organized several peace meet- THE final provincial communi- such as Tamasha Peace Foundation. ings in conflict areas and through cation and coordination meet- NABOK Network is now associated Action Aid and a US based peace or- ing for the year for Rift Valley with Sisi ni Amani, an organization ganization, 50 of their members had INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Peace Partners was held in doing substantial peace activities been trained on conflict issues. Eldoret 16-18 October 2011. in both the Rift Valley and Nairobi Finally, the networks had a chance Kenya needs to The discussions were fruit- Provinces. The NABOK shared the to learn about domesticated tech- ful as each of the three sub challenges of distance and expan- nology for peace which is part of the improve peace networks reported on the siveness of the area, communica- Partnership for Peace Project inven- prevention mechanism developments, experiences, tion breakdown and resources. tions. Every network went through — 16 achievements and lessons The NABOK members from Narok instructions and installations of the from the activities and events indicated that there was tension FrontlineSMS and establishment of they had attended and organ- within the Massai fraternity which Crowdmap-Ushaidi Platform. The Nandi County roots ized. was tied to land. The CSOs within process which looked complex at The Coalition for Peace Net- the network were engaging the ac- the beginning became interesting for peace work in North Rift (COPEN) tors and hope the standoff would be and quite practical. On understand- — 17 network reported that it had resolved amicably. ing the idea and successful instal- not only been registered but BAKENA (Baringo, Kericho and lation and creation of the platform, had also forwarded a funding Nakuru) Network equally had a lot Evans form CEPED, a BAKENA CSO Talais of Kericho decry proposal and was waiting for to share. They indicated that cour- member was heard saying, “this is positive communication from tesy of their relevance and visibility an excellent idea and I expect to historical injustices USAID. NABOK (Narok, Bom- in peace processes, majority of their et and Kajiado Network) said members had joined various DPCs. Turn to Page 16 — 18

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The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Commission. The Partnership for Peace Project is responsible for the views reflected in this supplement. 16 The Link, November 2011 SUPPLEMENT

Kenya needs to improve prevention mechanisms N interna- tional peace Aand security organization, Saf- erworld, held a highly suceesful two-day workshop By JOSEPH for Western Kenya OWUONDO Block in Eldoret. The workshop which was to de- velop a case study on early warn- ing (EW) for Kenya brought together early warning from around the coun- try. The experts developed a common understanding on EWR from regional experiences, identified existing gaps and challenges of Conflict Analysis in EW and enriched European Union re- sponses systems in situation of vul- nerability. Safe world has established an experience sharing system for existing early warning mechanism in Kenya to delineate EW systems in Kenya. From the discussions, it became clear that Kenya needs to improve its preparedness for conflict preven- tion and peace recovery interven- tions. The current strategy adopted from Wajir peace efforts is not suf- Better strategy required to manage peace efforts in Kenya. Photo/File ficient to deal with the needs of complex peacebuilding and conflict ing and conflict transformation proc- nificance for state and non state non-state actors may just remain im- transformation. A careful analysis esses in Kenya. Centralization route actors to partner in peacebuilding pressive to readers and writers like will certainly reveal the weaknesses as observed makes the process of activities. Even so, the document me and you, if not critically relooked in the current system. For instance, early warnings channeled to national is silent on early warning does not into proper framework developed. the NSC was established without level to be counterproductive. bring out the very best on govern- As Michael Lund, rightly observed the backing of a nationwide conflict The National Policy on Peace ment and civil society partnerships in his book Preventing Violent Con- analysis or survey. It was based on Building again states relationship be- on interventions. These matters are flict: “…early warning occurred in piecemeal, regional or issue specific tween early warning and response. fundamental to attainment of vision several instances but did not pre- analyses and surveys. However, outlines gaps in response for peaceful and stable Kenya. And cipitate any action. Strong potential In my view the process of upward and relationship between the civil the mission to promote sustainable conflicts or even the outbreak of vio- communication and centralization of society and the government. The peace through collaborative institu- lence were not in themselves suffi- conflict work has failed peacebuild- policy takes cognizance of the sig- tional framework between state and cient to generate preventive action.” Eldoret hosts final Rift Valley peace meeting From Page 15 peace issues. by project’s local experts from the the Nyanza Partners for Peace Alli- The Technology for peace, train- project regions before or after the ance, you are set to greater heights. leverage our work in all aspects to ing and installation is freely pro- project time elapses. Those organizations who wish to greater heights” He also indicated vided by Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Personally, am very humbled to read more about the alliance can that he would share the Idea with on request. The writer of this article have had a chance to acquire train- get in touch with project team in his colleagues and explore further will be more than willing to share ing on this technology courtesy of Nyanza through the contacts pro- on how they could help their part- the idea and further explore on Konrad Adenauer Stiftung and EU. I vided in this supplement. ner organizations on the same. other applications of the concept. will be more than willing to help any Courtesy of Partnership for Peace Madam Njoki, called a few days On request the same organization organization interested in under- Project and Nyanza Provincial Ad- later indicating she was interested will provide trainings for communi- standing or using the ICT for Peace ministration, there is a project in in understanding more on the tech- ties and organizations on funda- Platform the making. Keep posted from the nology and how she could use it to mentals of peace for grassroots or- Congratulations to Nyanza Peace Alliance’s Platform: strengthen women participation in ganizations. This can also be done Partners. Now that you have formed www.nyanza.crowdmap.com

This project is funded by the European Union This project is implemented by Konrad Adenauer Stiftung and her partners and associate

The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Commission. The Partnership for Peace Project is responsible for the views reflected in this supplement. The Link, November 2011 SUPPLEMENT 17

Nandi County roots for peace By LAWRENCE KOECH new phenomenon in the country, only proficient in other democra- AVING featured prominently cies abroad, they are rearing to give in the ongoing pretrial confir- it a shot irrespective of the status Hmation hearings at the Hague quo. Aspiring candidates who have as 2007/2008 post poll violence shown interest in various elective hotspot, young leaders in Nandi posts in the forth coming general county are swiftly moving to create elections under the new constitu- an “island of new politics”, an island tion, and have asked not to be men- they say shall be free of chaos. tioned are jittery of the process of Led by the chairman of Rift Valley interactive debates with wananchi. Development Trust, Mr. Denis Kogo They claim that this is part of and a host of community based or- a scheme to lock out other candi- ganizations, the team is spirited to dates. They further asserted that make an overhaul in the way to run some non-governmental organiza- politics in Nandi County. tions have been bankrolled by for- The group is set to roll out mas- eign individuals with ill motives to sive campaigns to sensitize the pub- terminate innocent political careers lic of the immense powers bestowed .”Their licenses should be revoked to them by the new constitution. and their activities cross examined” First in their menu is the intro- added another who asked for ano- duction of a code of political con- nymity due to sensitivity of the mat- Young leaders in Nandi county are swiftly moving to create an “island of new politics” duct to be used during elections ter. to vet aspiring political leaders in This is expected to the template to boards and banners at entry points Despite fierce opposition from Nandi County. The team comprising be used to weigh moral, profession- such as Chepsonoi, Mulango and some politicians, the group has re- of opinion leaders, youth, women, al and political suitability of leaders Chemelil. ceived massive support from the and elite from the region are already that shall govern the Nandi county They are facilitating public forums public and the government .The holding meetings in various parts of government. “We are tired of emp- where aspiring leaders can come to- campaigns is expected to culminate the County to drum up support for ty rhetoric of politicians who swear gether with Wananchi in live pub- in to one big conference to be held this course. heaven only to deliver hell to the lic debates to discuss among other towards the end of the year in Ka- “We want to do away with political electorate, “said Mr. Kogo. things, development, and issues to psabet town. rallies ,revealed Mr. Kogo .Plans are Already plans are underway to do with governance of public re- The Code of Conduct will be en- in top gear to create Nandi County rebrand Nandi County as a peaceful sources within the County. dorsed and adopted during the Ka- code of political conduct” (NCCPC}). area through radio programs, bill- Though they agree that this is a psabet forum.

BY DAVID MWAMBARI

Y beautiful, I did not realize how much you meant to me Cry the beloved Kenya Mtill now when I heard that you have been coerced into war. I did not allowed me into your classrooms. Your Yes we all complained about your where will princess vacation? How will notice my deep love and appreciation environment though often painted with matatus traffic, immense corruption, your brilliant children birth presidents for you till this day when my dreams harsh realities equipped many of us to poverty, politicians and of other chal- for powerful countries if they die in with you are threatened to become live in any Cities in the world. In-fact lenges you have. Yet these do not re- wars? Where will the poor hustle if nightmares of grenades spreading in one can become global citizen by simply place the millions of good things you bus stations are not safe? Where will your city and your youth shooting at interacting with your visitors. Now I join have been for Africa, for the world. You world marathoners practice if your neighbors. many who wallow in our own tears as can be associated with all these social hills hail hell? Has your patience been See, I came to you with scars on we hear words like “imminent threat”,” ills but never war. I was down town Nai- stretched too thin? my heart, my memory haunted by riv- terrorist attack”, “invasion of a neigh- robi when terrorist put a knife in your You are a Kenya that gives the ers of blood that had claimed my own. bor”, “xenophobia” associated with your eye and I saw you forgive them after. poor upward mobility probably best I arrived in your loving and welcoming peaceful nature. Your soul used to host, The youth with machetes were right on country where one can find class sta- arms carrying cadavers in my memory raise, nature millions of your neighbors’ my door in Adams-ngong road in 2007 tus malleable in Africa. You are the of my mother Rwanda. Yours, was to children regardless of their background. post election violence, yet Kenya you Kenya that welcome a teen like me care for me, your children welcomed How many Ugandans, Ethiopians, So- struggled hard to avoid engaging in civil and give freely whatever you have to me and shared all they had. On your malis, Rwandans, Burundians, Suda- war like your neighbors. Why now? offer. You are the peaceful Kenya, the Nairobi Street hard work was defined, nese, and Mozambique etc have you Who will reconcile enemies? Will loving neighbor why now? Whose war you taught me the ways of capital- given a second chance in life? Did we Wangare Maathai rest in peace with are you fighting? ism yet in your villages you reminded contaminate your people with our mem- these grenades? Where will treaties me of community values. I was only ories? What has happened Kenya what’s be signed if your hotel lobbies have David can be reached via email: a teenager, fragile, idealist and you happening to you? blood? Where will Princes propose and [email protected]

This project is funded by the European Union This project is implemented by Konrad Adenauer Stiftung and her partners and associate

The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Commission. The Partnership for Peace Project is responsible for the views reflected in this supplement. 18 The Link, November 2011 SUPPLEMENT PARTNERSHIP FOR PEACE Talais of Kericho decry historical injustices By JOHN NYAMBUNE discuss and negotiate the compensation issue”. HE Laibon or Talai clan in Kericho The Talai clan (Laibon or Oorkooik) County is a forgotten lot. The com- trace their ancestry to the Nandi County Tmunity has been marginalized by in the mid-19th century following the kill- successive regimes since independence. ing of a pioneer Orkoiyoot called Kipnyolei From atrocities committed by the co- arap Turugat by the community’s warri- lonial government to the eventual loss of ors. Arap Turugat was the chief Orkoiyoot their ancestral land to the Kipsigis com- among the Nandi. However, towards the munity, the clan today lives in squalor. end of his leadership, members of the The clan members told the Truth, community lost confidence in him after Justice and Reconciliation Commission his prophesies lost tact in the community. (TJRC) in Kericho town that they are vic- The last blow came when hundreds tims of injustices perpetuated by succes- of warriors died in a war he had spear- sive governments. headed against the Luo community. The In a memorandum to the commission- irate warriors conspired to kill him and ers led by Tecla Namachanja, the Laibon installed Koitaleel arap Somoei as their community said their grievances seemed Orkoiyoot. to have fallen on deaf ears in all the This was followed by the dispersion successive governments. In the memo- of the Laibon people with Turugat’s three randum drawn by among others David other sons, Kipchombeer arap Koilegeen, Ng’asura (a son of the Laibon) and Bill Kiptanui arap Boisio and Kibuiguut be- Ruto (a historian and researcher). ing forced out of the community to live Their suffering dates back to January among their Kipsigiis cousins. 7, 1914 when Koilegeen, his brother arap Arap Koilegeen lived at Cheerire in Boisio and Kibuiguut were arrested by the Kiptere in Belgut, Kibuiguut proceeded British administration (under the “Native President Kibaki Former President Moi to the eastern side of the Kipsigis county Removal Act of 1909) and taken to exile and set base at Binyiny in the present in Fort Hall, Nyeri and Meru respectively. pensation from the British government in 1962, they found their land had been day Kipkelion district, while Boisio lived in The aim of the British administration was for the suffering they went through at demarcated and given to the Kipsigiis Mombwo village of the present day Bureti to disorganize the people who planned to Gwassi and have urged the Government people. They have never been formally district. resist their rule. to give them land. resettled ever since,” said the memoran- The Laibon people were always at log- The Laibon leaders later died in exile. When they were brought back to Keri- dum in part. gerheads with the British colonialists and Back home, their clansmen who had cho County in 1962, the Laibons claim The Laibons showed the commission- Orkoiyoot arap Turugat had predicted the grown in population to cover most parts they found their land had been grabbed ers letters between them and successive coming of the white man, according to of the Kipsigis County, were also tortured by members of the Kipsigis commu- governments of Kenyatta, Moi and Presi- the Kalenjin oral history. He told his Nandi by the colonialists, said the memoran- nity and the colonial government then dent Kibaki claiming no one was ready to tribesmen to rise against the white man dum. “squeezed” them into a tiny farm at the listen to their grievances. They have even and resist his authority by all means. And In order to alienate the clan that had outskirts of Kericho town near the Prisons written to the Queen of England. the Nandi did this as was proved by the proven formidable, the colonial govern- Annex. They have lived at the site since In a letter dated September 3, 2009, famous Nandi resistance. ment moved all members of the commu- then in horrible conditions, the TJRC they say in part: “Your Majesty, you are The resistance to the British rule sub- nity in 1934 to Gwassi (Lambwe Valley) in heard. the only one to bring a lasting solution jected the clan to suffering which has the former south Nyanza under the “Lai- “When the Laibons returned to Kericho to our plight. May be you can invite us to spilt over to many generations. bon removal Ordinance” of 1934 CAP of the then constitution. The area was heavily infested with Tse Tse flies, mosquitoes, snakes and other CONTACT ADDRESSES: wild animals. The colonialists thought this would help in killing and markedly reduce EU-KAS Project Office in Kisumu, Varsity Apartments 3rd Floor, the population of the clan that had resist- P.O. Box 668, 40100 Kisumu, ed the rule, the Ng’asura and Ruto told Telephone. +254 057 2023 484 TJRC commissioners at Kericho Teachers +254 711 358 013 Training College. e-mail: [email protected] Between 1934 and 1962, the Laibons went through untold suffering along Lam- bwe Valley, with many dying of malaria, PARTNERS small pox as livestock perished due to Mt. Elgon Residents Association (MERA) Community Initiative Action-Group (CIAG-K) Catholic Justice and Peace Commission (CJPC) rampant east coast fever and rinderpest Chem Ngeywo, Project Coordinator Mr. Chrispin Owalla, Project Coordinator Mr. James Kimisoi, Project Coordinator outbreaks. Western Province Nyanza Province Rift Valley Province A total of 111 Laibon men with wives P.O. Box 21-50201, Cheptais, Mt. Elgon Varsity Apartments 3rd Floor, The Catholic Diocese of Eldoret and children totaling 698 and 2096 cat- Mobile : 0720-744827; 0734-517489. P.O. Box 668, 40100 Kisumu. P.O. Box 842-30100, Eldoret. tle, sheep and goats trekked for 13 days Email: [email protected] Tel: 0737-470558/0716-384135 Tel 2031272; 0722-448110 to Gwassi under a colonial administrator [email protected] or E-mail: [email protected] called Mr. O’Hara, and later a commander [email protected] identified as Blunt. The Laibons have demanded for com-

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The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Commission. The Partnership for Peace Project is responsible for the views reflected in this supplement.

The Link, November 2011 20 GOVERNANCE Annan calls for Mui residents demand a piece of the coal cake By KAVYU-KURA the mandate to negotiate, make inquiries that the community should be entitled to once sealed will have far reaching impli- clear policies and communicate on behalf of the coal- 80 percent of the royalties derived from cations on your lives and future genera- THE residents of the coal-rich Mui ba- belt community. the mineral resource. Additionally, they tions,” he warned. to support sin in Kitui County recently spelt out The meeting chaired by a retired want to be enlisted as shareholders of Mutua said that already some of- tough measures that must be upheld by Provincial police offer Charles Mukun- the firms that will win tenders to mine ficials at the ministry of energy have investors who intend to commence min- gi demanded that the ministry of energy coal. started playing dirty tricks and have un- new law ing in the area. recognizes the local community as an in- The residents also want the under- constitutionally withheld the names of Representatives of the community dispensable stakeholder in the coal min- ground method of coal mining be used directors of a Chinese firm that had been By PETER MUTUKU living within the 500 square Kilometre ing business and involve it in every step to minimize population displacement pre-qualified to start mining coal. coal belt with about 400 million tons of planning and execution of the mining as opposed to the environmentally un- “It was unconstitutional for them The process of implementation of the of coal deposits straddling Kitui and process. Further, the participants sought friendly and disruptive open cast mining to have withheld the information from new constitution is generally on track Mwingi regions, nominated the Mui the enactment of legislation that would method. They said those who will be me since the law now allows the public with the critical legal and institutional Mines and Minerals Company Limited specifically deal with the coal industry eventually displaced must be substan- to access information held by the gov- framework for implementation in to negotiate benefit sharing terms with and provide for the establishment of an tially compensated and resettled in an ernment. This is an overt indicator that place, peace negotiators said in a new the ministry of energy and investors. autonomous authority to run the coal in- organized and humane manner. something sinister is happening and we report just published. During a coal delegates meeting dustry just as is the case with sugar, tea Lawyer Mutua had earlier told the must be wary and alert not to be shortch- The report released by the Kenya held at the Mathuki Secondary school and coffee industries. meeting that unless the community re- anged as other people reap highly from National Dialogue and Reconciliation in Mui division of the Mwingi East dis- The meeting also demanded that mains alert and stands firm in protecting the initiative,” said Mutua. (KNDR) chaired by former UN chief trict, Nairobi based lawyer Erick Kyalo the coal extraction factory must be set their rights, they risk being shortch- Mutua who is also the chairman of Kofi Annan noted , however, that there Mutua was nominated the spokesman up within the Mui basin and offer 90 anged in the deal. “You must be wary the Mui Mines and Mineral (Company) was a clear need to begin building the of the Mui coal basin community with percent of jobs to locals. They insisted of the ongoing negotiations as the deal limited registered as a public entity not- capacity, particularly of nascent institu- ed that it was extremely suspect for the tions and to develop clear and coherent ministry of energy to have pre-qualified policies to support their work. a firm to mine coal while land owners According to the report conducted had not been consulted on their entitle- by South Consulting, about half of all ments in terms of compensation and Kenyans were happy with the progress plans for resettlement. made in implementing the Constitu- Another lawyer Justus Munyithya tion. had told the affected community that “The general view that the con- they stand to lose out as the coal min- stitution presented an opportunity for ing gets underway unless they come change in the style of managing pub- together through a legal entity that will lic affairs had sustained confidence in represent their collective interests and the implementation process,” said the fight for their rights. report. The report further noted that Munyithya who is based in Mom- reforms in the judiciary were viewed basa and has been consulting for the as the biggest change the country had communities in Kwale over their dis- seen since the promulgation of the new putes with Tiomin firm that mines tita- constitution. nium, told the Mui basin residents they The report found that both the must demand to be active partners in transparent process through which ju- coal mining business but not passive dicial officers were appointed and the by standers if they were to benefit ap- high integrity standards demanded of propriately. applicants, were responsible for an in- A don at the school of Architecture crease in public confidence in the ju- and Building at the Jomo Kenyatta Uni- diciary. “This satisfaction can only be versity of Agriculture and Technology sustained by the achievement of real Dr. Titus Kivaa Mbiti said the mining of results,” says the report. coal would stimulate the achievement of The focus of the report was vision 2030. He thus stressed the need progress in the implementation of the for the local community to strategically constitution, electoral reforms and pre- Lawyer Erick Mutua addresses the meeting flanked by colleague Justus Munyithya and University position themselves so as to reap full paredness for the next General Elec- don Dr. Titus Kivaa Mbiti. Photo/Kavyu-Kura benefits. tions and the legacy of post-election violence, especially the continuation of the International Criminal Court (ICC) process in Kenya and the problem of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). IDPs plan marches to press for overdue settlement Regarding the legacy of Post Elec- By LINK CORRESPONDENT dubbed Operation Rudi Nyumbani. some politicians are using them as a in 2008. Led by their chairman, Mr Rob- tion Violence, public opinion showed He says up to date, the records are tourist attraction to earn cash,” Mr Siko- ert Onsoti, they said they will not relent that over half of Kenyans believed INTERNALLY Displaced Persons still not clear on how many people were re- na claims. He asked all IDPs to come until the government compensates and that the government lacked the will to residing in camps plan to stage dem- settled in the programme. He also says out in large numbers and support the resettles them. Mr Onsoti alleged that investigate or prosecute suspected per- onstrations in major towns starting this IDPs want to know how the Kshs4.2 demonstrations. the more than 2,000 in Gucha only re- petrators of the post election violence, month to press the government to reset- billion, which was allocated during this The IDPs drawn from Kenyenya, ceived four kilogrammes of maize each according to the report. tle and compensate them. year’s budget for the resettlement of Nyamache, Nyamira and Gucha South from the government in 2008. Also in the report public support The lobby’s chairman, Mr Elijah IDPs, has been used. districts claim that they have never re- He said they are yet to receive the for the ICC remained high, with up to Sikona, says the demonstrations will He alleged that IDPs have been ceived any money from the government initial Kshs10,000 from the Ministry of 65 percent of Kenyans happy with the be held from November 7. Addressing turned into cash cows by some unnamed like other IDPs in other camps. Special programmes, adding, most peo- IDPs in Ogembo Town, Mr Sikona took politicians who have also hatched a plot IDPs in Gucha say the government ple are living in pathetic conditions with ICC and 64 percent who trust that ICC issue with the government for conduct- to buy their votes next year. “We have has failed to listen to their plight and has their children dropping out of school for can effectively protect witnesses. ing a skewed resettlement programme close to 800,000 IDPs in camps and ignored them since they were displaced menial jobs because of poverty. “These findings suggest that public confidence in the government’s ability to fight impunity, and to address the post election violence, remains low and that there are very high expecta- Rights body calls for inquest into Mt. Elgon atrocities tions for the ICC to deliver justice to By LINK CORRESPONDENT bution exercise in the Chebyuk settle- 2006 and mid-2008, the SLDF killed an the over 300 missing people were killed the victims,” the committee noted. ment area. But by 2008 the SLDF had estimated 750 people and the Kenyan and buried in mass graves in Mt. Elgon, On electoral reforms and prepar- THREE years after her husband’s dis- been accused of killing several hundred Army an estimated 270. Lawrence said. “Most of the residents edness for elections, the South report appearance, Phyllis Chamnai Kipkeyo people, and committing offences such as HRW has called on the Interna- we talked to pointed out 10 particular noted that while new legislation was from Mount Elgon, cannot stop thinking torture, rape and theft. tional Criminal Court (ICC) to deter- sites, which they said the army told them important, the institutional capacity of about him. She does not know if he is However, when the government mine whether crimes falling within the are areas where the bodies were buried,” the body that would manage the elec- dead or alive. All she knows is that he launched a military operation to flush court’s jurisdiction were committed in said Lawrence, one of the lead research- tions was critical. was one of the over 300 people said to out the militia, both the Kenyan Army Mt. Elgon and to consider opening an ers of the report. have disappeared during an insurgency and SLDF arrested hundreds of people investigation into the violence. Kipkeyo may have seen her husband The report stated that laws would who were never seen again. Many are “I also believe that the ICC should just before he was buried in one of these mean little without the agency to en- in the region between 2006 and 2008. “He was an administrative officer in assumed dead. broaden its investigation in Kenya if the mass graves. After his arrest she was in- force and impose sanctions on those charge of Chebwek sub-location in Mt. A report released by Human Rights Kenyan government is unable or unwill- structed to give the army a list he had who breach them, particularly in Ken- Elgon. But in April 25, 2008, Kenyan Watch (HRW) appealed to the Kenyan ing to carry out these investigations,” compiled naming members of the SLDF ya, where electoral violence, because army soldiers came to our house and government to open an inquiry into Ben Lawrence, a researcher at HRW, who had been terrorising the area. of impunity, appeared to have trans- took him away for questioning about the the arrests, to exhume suspected mass told The Link. “I had known about it. But on that formed into a culture. security situation in the area,” said Kip- graves and to investigate atrocities com- The ICC is currently prosecuting six day I was really confused to a point that The report also cautioned that polit- keyo, 49, a mother of six. mitted by both the army and the SLDF. suspected instigators of Kenya’s 2007 I could not locate it immediately. But a icisation of the process of establishing Insecurity in the area deteriorated The 48-page report called “Hold to 2008 post-election violence, when few hours after they had left, I found the the Independent Electoral and Bounda- in 2005 after the militia group, Sabaot Your Heart” is based on field investi- 1,200 people were killed, women were list and took it to the Chepkube tea fac- ries Commission (IEBC) threatened Land Defence Force (SLDF), was gations and interviews conducted in raped, homes and stores were looted tory, where the soldiers were camping,” to lay a foundation for future conflicts formed to seek redress for alleged injus- Western Province, where Mt. Elgon is and destroyed, and 600,000 people were she said. over decisions on election issues. tices that occurred during a land distri- located. The report says that between internally displaced. It is believed that The Link, November 2011 DEVELOPMENT 21 Oparanya Operation Smile exercise held in Nyeri defends state By JOSEPH MUKUBWA nia being very happy as they were tion Josephine Ndambuki said hood facial deformities. able to smile after operation. they wanted to make positive “Together we can create smiles, ABOUT 120 patients in Nyeri Others had come from Moyale, contributions to Kenyan commu- change lives and heal humanity. development benefitted from a free exercise by Mombasa, Samburu, Mandera, nities by implementing projects Approximately one in every 500 the Operation Smile Mission of Kisumu and Nairobi among other that provide sustainable solu- Kenyans babies is born with a record Kenya. areas. tions to their social challenges. cleft clip or cleft palate. In Kenya, Ali Hassan who brought his six But one of the shocking cases “In our quest to assist the less there are many children who never By LUKE KAPCHANGA year-old boy from Mandera lauded was that of a 14-year-old boy who fortunate in the society, apart receive this life-changing surgery. the good work by the volunteers as is mentally challenged. from education, we have invest- In as little as 45 minutes, one cleft PLANNING Minister his boy is now be able to smile and He was allegedly burnt on the ed in a cross section of sectors lip surgery can change a child’s Wycliffe Oparanya has refut- play with other children without face by his parents and dumped at among them health, economic life forever,” said Macharia Kiruhi ed claims that politics plays being shameful. the hospital early this year. empowerment, environment, arts who is the chairman of Nyeri site. a key role in the implemen- “It has been a shame when He had to be operated in order and culture and music and sports. The Nyeri site has held four tation of development pro- playing with other children in the for him to look like a normal child. These projects have gone a long missions in the past five years with grammes. school. But now he will be able to Kibe said the case is one of the way in transforming lives in the more than 500 patients benefiting Oparanya instead says that smile again. We took three days to successful cases and the boy was country for the past ten years,” from the free services. development programs are arrive here for the operation. I’m able to smile again. said Ndambuki. Operation Smile is now present implemented based on priori- happy now that the exercise was The exercise started with Operation Smile has so in 51 countries including Kenya. ties identified by beneficiar- worth as it is a lifetime job done screening at the hospital recently. far conducted the exercise in ies and not political interests. on him,” said his father Hassan. The exercise, which cost at Kisumu, Nairobi and Nyeri “Most of the develop- The120 people with a cleft lip least Kshs10 million sought to en- towns and the organization now Shitanda ment projects are channelled or cleft palate were operated at the sure that the patients with deformi- plans to set up a Garissa site so through line ministries, and Nyeri Provincial General Hospital ties are able to smile again. that the people from the area can during the one week exercise. Safaricom Company was benefit. They also plan to put up unveils Kisii allocations depend on listed different sites in every County. priorities by respective com- A clinical coordinator Julia among the sponsors of the event Kibe said the exercise was suc- with their contribution of Kshs1.7 Operation Smile in Kenya is housing project munities. There is no way a cessful with patients from all over million. a non-governmental charitable political leader will influence the country and one from Tanza- A trustee of Safaricom Founda- organization which repairs child- By BOB OMBATI development in his or her area, without going through THE government has commissioned district development commit- housing units at Nyanchwa estate in Kisii County to address housing short- tees, which are tasked with ages currently being experienced in such matters”, he said. the economically progressive town. Mr. Oparanya says that Housing Minister Soita Shitanda communities must there- said the project will help rid the town fore push their development of slums whose growth is difficult to agenda without necessarily stop. expecting political involve- Soita said 60 percent of Kenyans ment. in urban areas reside in slums, adding He cited his ministry that the government has rolled out a which has valuable informa- multibillion programme that seeks to tion on the needs and expec- build affordable houses and provide tations of different areas in Kenyans with decent housing. the country. He challenged The minister challenged civic bod- residents to create conducive ies to set aside land to enable the Na- environment in their respec- tional Housing Corporation (NHC), tive areas to help attract pri- to construct more housing units as vate investment. majority of the urban dwellers were Addressing journalists in living in deplorable conditions. Webuye Town, the Minister He disclosed that NHC will start absolved political elites from phase two of the project in Kisii town Western Kenya against ac- and told the council to avail land for the project which will highly benefit cusations that they had failed the local people on completion. to initiate any meaningful The Corporation, said the minis- development saying that for Neurosurgeons operate one of the children at Nyeri Provincial General Hospital recently during the free operation by the Operation Smile Mission of Kenya. Photo/Joseph Mukubwa ter was implementing the Housing any meaningful investment project in 90 towns nationally and to occur, one has to consider appealed to beneficiaries to maintain better returns before taking them in good condition. the risks, and this may be one Building of public library underway in Busia County He said NHC was partnering with reason, why locals fear.” the local authorities, the government Oparanya however By NYAKWAR ODAWO to contribute funds towards the mobilize their friends and other and private sector in implementing the blamed divisive politics project to hasten the construction organizations to contribute to- project which had collapsed in the 70s which he said had contrib- PLANS are underway to put up a process that is scheduled to take wards the project. due to mismanagement. uted to under development in Kshs70 million public library in off at the beginning of next year. The Kenya National Union of According to documents obtained the region adding that lead- Busia County. “So far we have been able to Teachers (KNUT) Busia branch by The Link, a two-bed roomed unit ers in the community lacked According to Mary Wafula fund raise a total of Kshs100,000. executive Mark Oseno lauded costs Kshs. 2.65 million. Beneficiar- a clear political direction. who is the coordinator of the We have as well managed to ac- the initiative saying it was timely ies are required to deposit10 percent “The Luhya community will Busia Community library, the quire a two acre parcel of land considering that Busia as a coun- of the total cost and clear the balance never vote as a block because proposed public library will go a for the establishment of the read- ty has been without such an im- within 18 years. Some beneficiaries long way in promoting a reading of narrow and individual in- ing facility,” said the coordinator, portant facility for a long time. — Joseph Gikony and Annah Ondieki culture in the County adding that another fundraiser He appealed to the residents terests of leaders,” he pointed said they were delighted and urged the The library coordinator at the will be done to raise more funds. of Busia to develop a positive ministry to build more houses to ben- out saying that “These people same time said that on its com- The coordinator of the Busia attitude towards books saying it are scattered everywhere, due efit more people. pletion, the public library will Community Library at the same will enable them to keep abreast Soita said the Ministry has Drafted to their different ethnic back- accord readers especially the stu- time lauded Nambale Constitu- with changes in society and the a Bill to streamline the construction ground and will never work dents who are unable to afford ency Development Fund Com- world at large. industry and compel contractors to as a team.” the high cost of books the oppor- mittee for allocating a total of “The people of Busia should seek registration with the Ministry of Last year, Equity Bank tunity to get access to a variety of Kshs0.6million in the last finan- change their attitude towards Public Works. The Draft Bill, noted CEO, James Mwangi chal- reading materials. cial year for the purchase of read- reading,” said the union official Shitanda had been forwarded to the lenged elites from Western “Once the library is complet- ing materials. adding that majority of people Attorney General and would soon be province to exploit the busi- ed, the Kenya National Library The representative of Maria in the area are engaged in cross tabled before parliament for debate. ness potential in the region. Services (KNLS) will equip the Library services based in New border trade at the expense of The minister said contractors who Speaking at Masinde Mu- facility with assorted reading York which is the main sponsor reading hence the high illiteracy do shoddy work will have their licens- liro University of Science materials,” said the coordinator, of the proposed project Harmke levels. es revoked. “Days when contractors and Technology, Mwangi adding that even well-wishers Kruithof on her part said that her Oseno said that he will mo- would get paid for shoddy work are said the area had enormous have also pledged to provide organization has set aside a total bilize union members in the Bu- gone. The government will not con- opportunities but residents books. of Kshs25million that will over- sia County to chip in and donate done contractors who sacrifice qual- lacked entrepreneurial skills. She appealed to the entire see the construction process. books towards this important ity work in order to reap profits,” said community including leaders She said that they will also course. Shitanda. The Link, November 2011 22 DEVELOPMENT Kakamega Murang’a parents oppose upgrading of schools youth groups get state funds By MORRIS GITHENYA PARENTS in Murang’a are opposed By TITUS MAERO to plans to elevate Provincial Second- ary schools into national schools. THE government through the The parents say, with the increased Youth Enterprise Development cost of living, many of them have Fund (YEDF) has disbursed Kshs turned to the bursary fund and well- 90 million to over 3000 youth wishers to sustain their children in na- groups in Kakamega County over tional and provincial schools. the last four years. Most parents can hardly afford the Minister for Youth and Sports fee charged by national and provin- Dr Paul Otuoma says that Kshs 29 cial schools due to the exorbitant fees million has been channeled to 712 charged by the institutions. youth groups through constituen- Ms. Mary Mukami details how cies in the area, while Kshs 61 mil- his brother had to drop from Nairobi lion has been disbursed through the school five years ago as the family financial intermediaries. could not afford to maintain him in the The Minister who spoke during school. a stakeholder’s forum organised “Many parents are suffering si- by the Youth Enterprise Develop- lently as they struggle to educate their ment Fund (YEDF) at the Muliro children in national schools in the hope Garden in Kakamega town, said of getting goods results at end of the the disbursement of the funds was year,” said Mukami. a clear indication that many youth She says elevation of the schools to had taken advantage of the oppor- national status is an avenue of block- tunities provided through the fund. ing children from poor “However there is still a size- families from accessing quality able number that has not taken ad- education. vantage of the available resources Investigations by The Link have because of lack of information or established that some national schools due to challenges relating to acces- hike fee on flimsy grounds that range sibility of the services,” he points from introduction of dubious projects Kenyans Catholic Church Head John Cardinal Njue chats with Planning and National Development Assist- out. which have not impact on the learning ant Minister Peter Kenneth during a church function. Photo/Morris Githenya He says the forum, facilitated process. by the Youth Enterprise Develop- Those unable to cope with the de- In Kigumo District, stakeholders figure will shot up following a policy been elevated into national schools ment Fund (YEDF), aims at ex- mand for more money, she said, have are divided on whether or not to el- by the Ministry of Education to es- and are currently awaiting funds from ploring ways through which the no option but to withdraw their chil- evate Njiiri high school into a national tablish more national schools at the the government to put up required fa- youth can be assisted achieve their dren leaving room for the able to take school. county level to increase access. cilities to match with their newly ac- potential. up vacancies. Currently there are fourteen na- In Murang’a County, Murang’a quired status. The lawmaker observed that tional schools in the country but the High School and Kahuhia Girls have the youth, especially the unem- ployed had lately become a con- cern to the nation as evident by By BEKADZO TONDO discussions in the media, as well as in other forums. AT the click of a button, learners in Kilifi County launches e-library The meeting which drew par- Kilifi County will now be able to ac- ticipants from the eleven districts cess over 3000 books, thanks to intro- Paterson, the computerized gadget is is replicated in other learning institu- introduction of the eReaders gadgets of Kakamega County also attract- duction of a new technology which portable and has been powered with a tions,” said Mr. Peterson. in the school saying the device will ed leaders from the grass root level may soon confine libraries in the area battery which can last for a month. Mr Paterson and Mr McCallum arm them with valuable information such as the Sub chiefs, chiefs, Dis- to oblivion. ‘Yellobric charity is dedicated to spent hours at the school to sensitize to improve on their skills. trict Commissioners, Civic Lead- The new technology dubbed as an the distribution of eLiterature to the teachers, pupils, parents and other “The gadget will provide us with ers among others. e-Reader will function as an electronic developing world to ensure that learn- residents from the area community on a variety of reference books for teach- YEDF Chief Executive Officer library and provide learners with in- ers access reading materials at the how to use the device which is the first ing English as well as story books that (CEO) Mr Juma Mwatata who stantaneous access to the hundred of touch of a button,” said Mr. Paterson. of its kind in Africa. will help promote the culture of read- was present at the meeting said free books which are digitally avail- Mr. Peterson who was accompa- The school head teacher Mr. Has- ing,” said Ms Ramtu Kambi who is an that plans are underway to stream- able. nied by an English teacher from Lon- san Abdalatif thanked the organiza- English teacher at the school. line the disbursement of the fund Intranet and email access will also don Mr Peter McCallum was speak- tion for donating 20 eReaders units A retired education officer Mr. to make it more accessible to the be available through the device and ing to teachers, pupils and parents to the school saying the gadgets will Rophus Karuke said the eReaders youths. content on the eReaders will be tai- of Mnarani primary school in Kilifi enhance teachers capacity to instil will reduce the financial burden on Mwatata said already five new lored specifically to capture each stage when he officially handed over the knowledge in simplified methods. parents who have in the past been re- constituency based loan products of child’s development and this may gadget to the school. The head teacher said the devices quired to spent huge amounts money have been launched to ensure that include the reading age, activity local- The technology founder said the will not only benefit the teachers and to buy text book and text books for as many youths as possible are able ity and access to WI-FI. new technology transcends barriers the pupils at the school but even the their children. to access financial services. The gadget has been developed by presented by limited facilities saying community Mr. Paterson revealed that his The CEO said YEDF personnel Yellobric charity, a UK based charita- that learners will now be able to ac- The chairlady of Kilifi town coun- organization is running a similar will use motor bikes to facilitate ble organization and is currently being cess different types of books. cil Mrs. Esther Kache who presided scheme in Malawi. their movements at the grassroot used to manage an electronic library ‘The fact that you can place the de- over the ceremony appealed to other ‘We have constructed a primary level. well wishers to donate education ma- at Mnarani primary school in Kilifi vice in a child’s hand and provide all school in Northern Malawi and we are The CEO further pointed out county. the material required for their educa- terials like text books to schools in the that the fund directory is being tion is incredible and Yellobric is com- area. in the process of completing a compu- According to the co founder of ter room which will be equipped with compiled to help the youth market the electronic technology, Mr. Gavin mitted to ensuring that the technology Teachers at the school hailed the their e-Readers devices’ said Mr. Paterson. products and form linkages with large enterprise firms. He said the directory would provide a comprehensive list of youth enterprises in the country Multi-choice takes satellite sets to schools and serve as tool to lobby for pro- curement from youth enterprises By BOB OMBATI ellite-fed TV at Nyamache Second- making it a powerful medium for ing to the environment, education by both the public and the private ary School in Kisii County, he said teaching and learning, adding that and the DSTV education bouquet will the school has been given a TV set, wildlife to help shape their atti- sector. A NON Governmental Organization Mwatata called on young peo- provide students with channels that decoder and a smart card. tudes towards life. has installed DSTV satellite equip- have been enriched with educational The Manager observed that the “I am impressed that my school is ple aged between 18 – 35 years ment in 56 Resource centres in the who are in business to visit youth content to enhance their learning ex- company will send quarterly timeta- among the 56 beneficiaries national- country. perience. ble for the Mind set ly. It is a great honour and I promise offices countrywide for listing in Multichoice Company’s General the directory. Isaboke observed the Bouquet Learning programmes and urged to ensure that the equipment is used Manager, Stephen Isaboke says the runs in eight channels and covers teachers to read the schedules and in- properly to benefit the students,” said “Last year about 100 youth company is keen on enhancing edu- exhibited their products and made History, Mindset Learn, National tegrate them in their lessons to ben- Ahidi in his office. cational programs across Africa by geographic, Wild Discovery, Animal efit the students. Isaboke said the company will useful contacts. Those who stood equipping learning centres with an out were sponsored to exhibit at Planet and British Broadcasting Cor- The school’s Principal, Jarred continue servicing the equipment array of reading materials to enhance poration (BBC). Ahidi lauded the company for the and urged the school administration the National Youth Trade Fair in teaching and learning in schools. Nairobi,” he said. He notes that Television can be initiative, saying the equipment will to report whenever there was a prob- Speaking after installing the sat- used to bring abstract ideas to life expose learners to many issues relat- lem. The Link, November 2011 23 FEATURE Virtues of exclusive breast feeding extolled Group offers relief water By JOHN NYAMBUNE He urged fathers to be involved in feeding for the stipulated period. Over child care by encouraging mothers to 500 residents attended the event. THE Ministry of Public Health and breastfeed children as one of the high Meanwhile, a cultural centre is be- to needy Kenyans Sanitation has embarked on a cam- impact intervention measures in pro- ing constructed at a cost of Kshs.20 moting child health. million in Samia District, Busia Coun- By JOHN NYAMBUNE desks and has pledged to donate at paign that seeks to encourage mothers least five computers to serve all 657 to exclusively breastfeed their babies Dr. Ahindukha said other activi- ty. The Busia County’s Cultural Of- ties being undertaken by the ministry ficer, Mr. Steven Makhanu, said the fa- AN international charitable organiza- pupils. “We look forward to a very in the first six months in Kakamega strong bond between Humanity First North district. include distribution of long lasting cility will comprise of a multipurpose tion has embarked on an ambitious treated mosquito nets, immunisation, hall and artifacts. project that seeks to install water and this school and hope to strengthen Western Provincial Director of it more,” says Mr. Shah. Public Health and Sanitation, Dr. Q.B. vitamin A supplementation, deform- The hall, Mr. Makhanu added, will pumps in drier parts of Western prov- ing, deliveries handled by skilled include a restaurant that is slated to ince. Humanity First, an international A total of 32 hand pumps have Ahindukha, says mothers must stop been set up in different parts of the giving children other foods besides health staff and family planning. provide indigenous foods, a library charitable organization, has commis- He said the activities help to lower and conference facilities. sioned ten hand water pumps in the country and are among 700 such fa- milk at least in the first half-year. cilities spread in several parts across “Exclusive breastfeeding reduces the mortality rate in the region and Besides drama and music that are province. urged parents to co-operate with health rich in local traditions, vital informa- The pumps costing at Kshs2 mil- the globe. child mortality by 13 per cent because Humanity First was set up in the milk has all the essential nutrients staff. tion on language, environment and lion have been built within school Mothers who have been identified nutrition shall be accessed at the fa- compounds to serve hundreds of resi- Kenya in 2006 and has responded to needed by the child and also boosts the a wide range of modest scale local body immune system,” he said. to have followed instructions and ex- cility, said Mr. Makhanu. The officer dents of remote villages of Mumias, clusively breastfed their children were said that the centre whose construction Webuye, Matungu and Kakamega disasters while focusing on longer He said the most prevalent diseases term solutions to problems afflict- among children in the region include awarded with three sufurias of differ- will be completed next year will attract districts. Mansoor Ahmed Shah, who ent sizes, packets of milk and nappies, tourists and researchers. is the Chairman of the trust fund, says ing the Kenyan people. On July 30 malaria, pneumonia diarrhea. this year, 16 volunteers arrived at the Dr. Ahindukha said for every 1,000 clothes for children. Mr. Makhanu urged locals to en- the main aim of the organization is Mumias Sugar Company contrib- gage in visual arts as this could earn to empower communities to support Dadaab Refugee Camp on the Kenya- children born in the region, 121 die be- Somali boarder with foodstuff to help fore attaining age five. “This can be uted Kshs.100,000 towards the event them a living, adding that financial themselves. and the gifts intended to encourage support for those participating in cul- “When we teach a man how to fish mitigate the suffering of over 400,000 reduced if children are breast fed for a refugees. long time,” the medic said. mothers to practice exclusive breast- tural festivals at grassroots level. instead of giving him fish whenever he is hungry, that to us is real help grant- The organization that draws finan- ed,” he told pupils, teachers and the cial support from donations in 11 coun- community around Ematawa Primary tries and has volunteers in 27 countries School in Marama Central Location, across six continents where it operates, Butere District. has so far committed US$ 50,000 (ap- State changes tact The head teacher of Ematawa Pri- proximately Kshs.5,085,765 by cur- mary School, Mr. William Aswani, rent exchange rate) for the distribution says since the pump was set up about of aid, with 10 per cent of the amount three years ago at the institution, hun- having been raised in Kenya. dreds of villagers, including pupils, The non-profit making organiza- in race against Aids have used it for domestic purposes. tion has approved a budget for a range By PETER MUTUKU HIV will cease to be a special disease positive, but do not know their status, “Initially, our pupils had to make of water projects, including rehabili- and thus the stigma previously associ- infecting others. Cherutich notes that about two kilometer trips to and from tation of hand pumps and potentially THE government has embarked on an ated with the disease will become a routine HIV testing in Kenya will Eshitukha Stream to fetch water but spring hand protection projects in ambitious project in the fight against thing of the past,” he says. further eliminate cases of testing by now we are the suppliers of this com- North Coast and rural areas of Kisumu. HIV/Aids as the deadline for Millen- In Kenya, traditionally, govern- proxy, especially for men, who believe modity to the community at large,” It has also set up medical facili- nium Development Goals (MDG) ment hospitals have a special unit for when their wives are HIV negative, says Mr. Aswami. ties to fight tropical diseases such as draws closer. HIV/AIDs patients. Experts believe they are also negative. The organization has so far built Malaria, apart from providing relief to The programme, which is being this system has derailed the fight Through the method, Kenya aims a tuition block at the school, donated flood victims. piloted at the Kenyatta and across the against HIV since people fear visiting at achieving 80 percent rate of HIV country, targets all patients visiting the centres for treatment or testing for testing among its approximately 40 public medical facilities with plans to fear of stigmatization. million people by 2013. replicate it to private hospitals. Nascop estimates that 100,000 This move will help reduce HIV Peter Cherutich, the Deputy Direc- people are infected with HIV in Kenya infection rates in line with Millennium ADVERTISING RATES tor and Head of HIV prevention at the every year. However about 40 percent Development Goals (MDG). MDG National Aids and STI Control Pro- do not know their HIV status. six, which focuses on HIV, among gram (NASCOP), says under the ini- “These untested people are ham- other communicable diseases, outlines Your support as our reader or advertiser ensures that the stories tiative HIV testing will be carried out pering the government’s efforts to that by 2015 countries should have that matter - the stories that help people make decisions about control the spread of HIV and prevent begun to reverse the spread of HIV/ on a routine basis to ensure that major- their education, health, governance, their livelihood, and their ity of Kenyans know their HIV status new HIV infections,” the doctor says. AIDS and halt new infections. This, in to effectively fight the disease. Cherutich notes that HIV is a dif- particular, targets populations aged be- communities - reach them in a simplified but factual way. “Making testing an everyday issue ferent kind of disease because one can tween 15 and 24 who are at the highest stay with it for a long time and risk risk. is the best way we can ensure that a How to Advertise great proportion of the population is spreading before it is detected. “You According to the goal, people in aware of their HIV status to effectively can stay with it even for over 10 years this age group should also have com- Send us the details of what you want advertised and we’ll do the fight the disease,” he notes. before you realize that you are sick or prehensive knowledge on HIV/AIDs. rest. These can be sent in electronic form as e-mail attachments or contract any opportunistic infections. The goal further targets that a The new testing method, he said in diskettes/CDs as well as hard copies. will make AIDS lose its special status Chances are that you would have sizeable population of those with ad- in the country’s health system. spread it to others,” he says. vanced HIV infection should have “This will help in plans to inte- Thus only routine testing can universal access to treatment and anti Our advertising rates are as follows: eradicate cases of people who are HIV retroviral drugs. grate HIV care and public health care. Full page colour Kshs. 72,000 Full page black and white (inside) Kshs. 40,000 Half page (Black and White) Kshs. 20,000 Remembering the king of Kamba politics Quarter page inside Kshs. 10,000 The Link Classified Kshs. 4,000 By AGGREY BUCHUNJU ally took a jembe and a spade to dem- from being washed away by rivers and onstrate how soil and water should be rains water, then sooner or later this Front Page Earpiece (colour) Kshs. 8,000 HISTORY will perhaps credit the late protected. country will become unproductive in Front page strap Kshs. 6,000 Ukambani political heavy weight, Mulu People everywhere were indeed in- terms of food security. Back page strap Kshs. 4,000 Mutisya for two things. volved in soil and water protection ex- He claims that WRMA in conjunc- The first is his role as the Kenya Afri- ercise through digging of terraces and tion with NEMA are currently sensitiz- Back Page Earpiece Kshs. 7,000 can National Union (KANU) Ukambani planting trees in designated areas. ing the communities whose land borders Front Page Solus (colour) Kshs. 20,000 supremo during the heyday of Moi’s The firebrand soil and water conser- rivers on the danger of messing up with Back Page Solus (colour) Kshs. 15,000 rule. vation programme however diminished the 30 metre river bank strip. And the secondly would be his role with the demise of Mutisya and by ex- The WRMA official adds that the au- as the National Soil and Water Conserva- tension Moi’s rule. thority is in the process of training regis- Special Rates tion Programme chair, despite his known Presently however, the Government tered groups on how to take care of the We offer very special rates for advertisement of charitable activities low levels of formal education. through the water resources manage- rivers and water catchment areas. programmes or services. To get special rates, contact the Editor or During his height at the National ment authority (WRMA) and the Na- Kiberenge discloses that already soil and water conservation programme, tional Environmental Management Au- WRMA has identified three (3) groups, the Editorial Assistant. there was a memorable Kiswahili phrase, thority (NEMA) is in a frantic effort to Mukhweso, Nambacha and Sirigoi, all Mmomonyoko wa udongo, meaning soil revive soil protection programme. from Navakholo District, to be trained The details should be mailed to the Editor, P.O. Box 7438, 00200, erosion, in every village in Kenya. Dr. Saul Kiberenge, of water re- on the techniques of the sub-catchment Nairobi, Kenya. Telephone 020-601776, 020-3572365. You can also The late Mutisya travelled across the sources management authority western management plan on river Lusumu. country urging people to protect soil and province, is urging Kenyans to conserve He was speaking recently at Na- e­mail us at [email protected] or [email protected]. water in the interest of food security and soil. vakholo District Headquarters where he NOTE: All payments should be made through cheques, payable to: future generations. Kiberenge argues that if urgent urged a group of 60 people picked for the Institute for Civic Affairs and Development (ICAD). Wherever he went, Mutisya person- measures are not taken to protect soil training to take the lessons seriously. The Link, November 2011 24 DEVELOPMENT MRM donates desks to poor Kitui school By KAVYU KURA enough teachers and that he was KISIUNI primary school in the pe- the only Teachers Service Com- ripheral areas of Tseikuru District mission (TSC) hired tutor. The World Vision of Kitui County is in dire need of other five are engaged by commu- help. nity. The 100 pupils at the school He spoke as Mabati Rolling helps Taitas in Kaningo location of Musa- Mills (MRM), a multinational vani division use makeshift grass company donated 200 Lap-desks thatched and mud walled struc- to the school. to get birth tures as classrooms despite funds The head teacher who was channeled to schools through the elated by the gesture, said the Lap- certificates infrastructural improvement pro- desks will not only help the pupils gram to aid in the upgrading of to write on a level surface but will facilities. aid the learning process as features By BRIGHTON KAZUNGU The situation is aggravated by such as the map of Kenya, the al- the fact that the available ram- phabets, a multiplication table, PARENTS in Ghazi area shackle classrooms have gaping national anthem and the colours within Voi District, Taita holes on the wall and learners can of the national flag have been im- catch a glimpse of what is taking printed on the surface. Taveta County, have fi- place outside the classroom with He said that at the moment nally managed to secure ease. But learning still continues World Vision NGO is financing 9,600 birth certificates unabated with pupils using the the construction of two classrooms for their children through earthen floor as their desks. while the Mwingi north Constitu- an initiative launched by Save for a few incidents where ency Development Fund (CDF) the World Vision, Ken- learning is occasionally disrupted has offered to build another class ya, the Voi Constituency by vicious conflicts between the room at a cost of Kshs500,000. Development Fund, De- locals and armed pastoralists from The Mabati Rolling Mills partments of Registrar Tana River and Garissa regions Team led by the Cooperate Affairs of Births and Deaths and manager Tom Moore Ogola was who have encroached in the area, Education. the school remains in operation. shocked by the deplorable state of This is albeit the fact that many the school. The school had been Area District Com- parents have withdrawn their chil- identified for the MRM support missioner, Mr. Raphael dren from the school and relocat- by the humanitarian World Vision Lemaletian, urged par- ed to safety after a few residents Non-governmental organization ents in the area to take sustained injuries in a conflict be- that operates in the area. advantage of the initiative tween the two groups. MRM’s Ogola who was accom- to obtain the certificates The school’s head teacher panied by a finance manager Nan- early enough to avoid last Samuel Mwendwa Kithome says cy Mbugua and Benson Wanyonyi minute rush. He said now the school’s population, which Mr Samuel Kithome, headteacher and Kioko Muthui, a standard from the administration depart- that birth certificates were currently stands at 87 pupils, is three pupil, sample the use of the desks as other pupils look on. ment said the lap desks that were mandatory in the register- not enough to effectively support Photo/Kavyu-Kura portable were ideal for learners in infrastructural development that such a school who would move ing for National examina- would ensure a conducive learning “We therefore appeal to donors help improve the situation,” he with the boards and learn from tions, parents and guard- environment. and well-wishers to move in and adds, saying that the school lacks other areas during skirmishes. ians should apply for them immediately the children are born. The administra- tor ordered chiefs and the assistants to arrest parents Shitanda orders audit of his CDF team whose children are not in By JOEL JUMA by the Public Relations manager have his CDF projects audited school. George Muruli. after Planning minister Wycliffe A senior Programme MALAVA MP Soita Shitanda has Shitanda and the Malava CDF Oparanya. Both Oparanya and Officer with the World appealed to the National Tax Pay- Chairman Nathan Anaswa said al- Shitanda have declared their inter- Vision-Kenya, Mr. Ger- ers Association (NTA) to probe his location of funds is done in con- est to run for the post of Governor ishon Mwakazi, said the CDF management team. sultation with the communities. in Kakamega County. programme was carried The Housing Minister said he Muruli said the board was sat- Adieno explained that the de- out by the organization at wants projects assessed to deter- isfied with the implementation of mand to have NTA audit projects the cost of Kshs.850,000. mine their impact in the constitu- projects in the constituency. in Khwisero was high adding that He said the initiative had ency. The NTA Coordinator Davis his organisation was pursuing the saved parents and guard- He explained that he is plan- Adieno and the Western Regional matter with the board. ning to contest for the post of Coordinator Evelyne Khamala “Many people want us to take ians money lost through Governor and therefore his record have already dispatched a team of the audit team to Khwisero and brokers who purport that in management of devolved funds auditors to Malava. Ikolomani constituencies,” said they can obtain the certifi- should be known to the residents They said the team has visited Adieno. Mr Shitanda cates faster at a fee. in the County. various projects in the constituen- Shitanda explained that MPs The County’s Registrar “I have performed well on cy and that they were compiling a should not fear having projects that is why I want to replicate my of Births and Deaths Of- management of CDF. I should report from the exercise. “We have in their respective constituencies strategy in the entire County,” said ficer, Mr. Francis Waweru, now be audited without fear,” said started auditing projects in Malava audited as public funds should Shitanda. said the main constraint Shitanda who was speaking dur- constituency as the MP has given benefit the communities without Muruli explained that the board his officers had experi- ing the inspection of projects by us the go ahead,” said Adieno. discrimination. has agreed to work with NTA on enced include failure by Shitanda becomes the sec- “I have distributed projects in monitoring and evaluation of the National Constituency Devel- some parents and guard- opment Fund Board members led ond minister from the County to all corners of the constituency and projects in the country. ians to obtain National Identity cards that were By TITUS MAERO mandatory in the issuance of birth certificates. The THE Kakamega Teachers Savings KATECO increases loans to members District Education Offic- and Credit Co-operative Society tion’s special delegates meeting in in terms of volume in business and trend world wide as a means to keep er, Mr. Michael Machora, (KATECO) Limited has disbursed Kakamega town, the official observed branches, as well as recruitment of abreast with the emerging technolog- said the transport expenses loans totaling to Kshs 754 million in that despite the success made by the more qualified staff. ical innovations adding that quite a and ignorance among par- the first quarter of this year. Sacco, there are still various challeng- Further, Sagalla said, plans are number of staff have completed their KATECO Chairman Joseph Sa- es facing the society including a high underway to expand the volume of studies and more were studying. ents and guardians were galla says that the disbursement of rate of defaulters and competition business and branches and encour- Sagalla said that although the the major setbacks consid- the credit was a great improvement from various financial institutions. aged staff members to continuously Sacco has complied with require- ering that civil registration compared to Kshs 694 million that He, however, said that some of the learn new skills to make them more ments of the Sacco Societies Regula- was done at Wundanyi, the was disbursed to its members over measures that have been put in place competent and add real value to the tory Act (SASRA), the society is still Headquarters of the former the same period last year. to check negative effects arising from Sacco. being levied deposits guarantee levy larger Taita District. Speaking during the organiza- loan disbursement include expansion He said studying has become the which, he said, was too high. The Link, November 2011 DEVELOPMENT 25 Let women claim their lands rights under new law cipal source of livelihood and material Women’s ties to land have histori- vided by the constitution and land policy By LUKE KAPCHANGA lenged to highlight in their stories issues affecting women, particularly on land wealth for majority of people and carries cally been mediated by their relationship to confront the deeply entrenched cul- KENYAN women have to seize the op- ownership. This was discussed during cultural significance. to men in patriarchal societies . tural barriers and obstacles such as pov- portunities in the new constitution to a one day seminar at Kisumu ,which The constitution guarantees equita- Their attempts to assert their rights in erty traps, ignorance of law and illiteracy claim their rights to access and own land. brought together journalists and civil so- ble access to land rights, efficient, pro- ways challenging customary land tenure that hinder access, control and owner- Both men and women have to come ciety representatives. ductive and sustainable use of land by system is likely to continue being per- ship of land. out and display their active understand- The UN Women aims to enhance all, prohibiting gender discrimination in ceived as disruption to gender relations To empower women to effectively ing of the constitution in its implemen- participation of women in decision mak- law, customs and practices. and society. The land laws in Kenya engage in these reforms, the UN Women tation so that its benefits are enjoyed ing over land management and use, and Both the constitution and the Nation- were developed against a customary law has formed partnerships with civil so- across board. accelerate legislation and implementa- al land policy of 2009, call for institution system in which women had no rights to ciety groups with prior experience and It is widely believed that gender sen- tion of gender sensitive laws regarding of a transparent and accountable system own land. The process of land adjudica- interest in women and land issues to pro- sitive provisions governing ownership land and property. of land administration, and guarantee the tion, consolidation and registration crys- mote civic engagement and awareness. of land and property provide an oppor- It was observed that Women in Ken- protection of women’s rights to land and tallized men’s absolute ownership and The eight month pilot project, aims tunity for women to engage in policy ya have experienced gross disparities in related resources. control of land. at providing knowledge and experience dialogue which gives them public voice. land ownership as well as discrimination This includes the provision for joint Women traditionally had limited in areas of women rights to land and The UN Women, a civil society during succession , transfer of land and spousal registration and documentation rights to access or use of land, and were property ownership and generate learn- initiative has started public education exclusion in land decision making proc- of land rights. It is widely believed that if excluded from decision making proc- ing for a longer term project. The UN activities countrywide to popularize the esses. Majority have suffered degrading effectively Implemented, the new char- esses as men held majority of seats in Women-Kenya was formed in January, provisions on women and property own- and life threatening consequences for ter will likely bring a significant change institutions such as land boards that ad- comprising of several UN agencies on ership as provided for in the constitution their lack of property rights resulting into towards equitable access to land, sus- judicate land issues. gender. Partners include African Women and National Land policy. absence of economic security. tainable land use and secure land rights. For the country to reach equal- and Child Feature Services (AWC), AL- Their objective is to encourage com- This denial of equal property rights The Constitution will override the ity, women should obtain adequate land DEF Kenya, Centre for land, Economy munities to abandon practices that bar puts women at the greater risk of pov- cultural barriers that have continued to rights that are both socially and legally and Rights of Women ,Kituo cha Sheria women from inheriting family land. erty, disease, violence and homelessness. limit women’s ability to access, control recognized. The challenge is now upon and The Women’s Research Centre and Therefore the media, has been chal- Land as an emotive issue, is the prin- and own land. women, to take up the opportunity pro- Development Institute. Depleted Maragoli forest set for rehab villages inside the forest. After being By JOHN NYAMBUNE gazetted as Government land, differ- ent trees were planted, generating thick PLANS are underway to rehabilitate vegetation that forms the present-day the depleted Maragoli forest in Vihiga Maragoli forest. County. Settlers in the forest were moved An Environmental Impact Assess- out by the Government and resettled ment (EIA) test will be undertaken to in Sirwa in Nandi district, as others determine the best way to conserve the were discouraged on hearing rumours ecosystem. Conservationists say that of the new settlement, forcing them to unless an EIA is done, the resource will remain. be subjected to environmental damage Back in 1970s to 1990s, the Ma- that may affect the region. ragoli forest was symptomatic of the Community members along Ma- beauty of vegetation in western Kenya ragoli hills have already formed a com- that provided an ideal settlement for munity forest association to manage wildlife, adequate rainfall in Western the ecosystem and ensure sustainable and Nyanza regions. It also acted as a utilization of the forest. tourist attraction because of its prox- The proposed rehabilitation exer- imity to the Maragoli settlement cave cise covers three broad zones, namely (founder of Maragoli sub-tribe who Zone 1 Agro forestry/residential that originated from Rusinga Island). De- covers a large portion of trust land struction of the forest started in 1992 covering Muguva, Dabwongo, and Lu- when a former provincial administrator donyi villages. started selling trees to saw millers who The plan recognizes that residents ferried timber in lorries. are legally occupying the land although The ecosystem served as a source some families have settled into the of grass for livestock and herbal medi- gazetted forest zone. cine. It was also a source of honey, The second Conservation/protec- A panoramic view of Maragoli hills. Conservationists are concerned over the rising rate of deforestation at thatching grass and clean water. How- tion zone is the most fragile and highly Maragoli forest. Photo/File ever, residents joined hands with log- depleted area that is a source of rivers gers to cut down trees for the burning and streams. Zone 3 neighbours the to undertake an elaborate reforestation may eject from the forest and leave that were common here,” said Mrs. of charcoal and making frames that forest adjacent to villages. program to avert such calamities. them with nowhere to turn to. Rwengedero. were transported to Kisumu and El- Mr. Samuel Munene, the secretary Though the rehabilitation exercise A resident along the hills, Mrs. Maragoli forest lies in Vihiga doret. of the association, says deforestation of has been opposed by residents living Margaret Rwengedero, says they were district in Western Province along Families started competing for the ecosystem has generated negative along the hills, Mr. Munene says the living in fear of insecurity since the Luanda-Majengo road. The forest pieces of land in the cleared forest impact that has forced residents to re- group will not be relent in their efforts forest is home to wild animals such is part of the communal land in the which led to total destruction, leading forest the area. to restore the ecosystem, adding that as monkeys that have been destroying larger Kakamega district. In 1942, the to the degradation of soil from erosion “Our environment is worsening by with the assistance of the Government, crops and believe reforestation should Kakamega County Council acquired a as residents were less concerned about day. We no longer experience adequate thick vegetation will flourish. not be done since the land initially be- loan of Kshs.47,000 and after failing to conservation measures. rainfall, soils are infertile and erosion Mr. Nebert Auke Odanga, a mem- longed to the community. repay, it offered the land to the Gov- Today Maragoli Forest has lost its is taking place which has left land with ber of the rehabilitation committee, “We cannot allow the Government ernment that gazetted 395.1 hectares former glory with huge rocks along huge rocks and no farming practices to says they will ignore opposing groups to plant trees since the thick vegetation as Government forest. The land was rivers and streams that flow through be carried,” adds Mr. Munene. that have been sabotaging the plan by was a den for criminals and we could placed under the Kenya Forest Service. the forest. The rivers contain silt and He says rocks failing on the hills uprooting the seedlings. not leave our children at home for they The remaining 66 hectares in trust no trees such as pines, mugumo and can cause death to those occupying the Residents opposed to the rehabili- were also in danger of being attacked land belongs to communities living eucalyptus that previously covered the land that has no soil and thus the need tation plan fear that the Government by wild animals, especially leopards in Muguva, Dabwongo and Ludonyi region.

By BRIGHTON KAZUNGU MORE Kenyans are slated to benefit Kenya finally joins Maritime white list from seafarer jobs after the country Bandari College, in Mombasa. es that will ensure Kenyans compete in was experiencing a shortfall of about I would like to urge not to look at the joined the International Maritime Or- Ms. Kariguthu says as part of the the global maritime job market. 70,000 staff, and Kenyan sea farers local market but at the international ganisation White List. policy making mandate of KMA un- “The potential for economic would do better if they take up oppor- markets, where certification is a neces- Kenya Maritime Authority Direc- der Vision 2030, her organization has growth through the increase in foreign tunities available in the sector. sity and also where remunerations are tor General, Ms. Nancy Kariguthu, a task of presenting new frontiers for remittances is visible in the maritime The official says sea farers should high,” she advised. says about 90,000 officers’ jobs and wealth and job creation to increase the job market today,” Ms. Kariguthu equip themselves with requisite skills She says KMA was working to- 423,000 ratings are available in the country’s GDP. says. considering that high standards that wards developing a promotional strat- market. She said KMA in collaboration Ms. Kariguthu says Kenya would are required to command the high seas. egy jointly with the private sector to She was addressing local and inter- with the Kenya Institute of Education do well to emulate the Philippines “I would like to stress that the encourage foreign ship owners and national maritime stakeholders at the have developed a curriculum from ar- that provide the maritime world with world has grown into a global vil- management companies to employ World Maritime Day Celebrations at tisan level to degree level, with cours- over 200,000 jobs. She says the sector lage, more so for seafarers, for whom Kenyan seafarers. The Link, November 2011 26 FARMING Drought Coffee boom back in Central pushes Mwingi By JOSEPH MUKUBWA There were also coffee thefts at nual report that out of this, Kshs108.2 “Gross sales accounted for Kshs factories leading to losses, low adop- million was paid to the farmers. 243,045 out of which Kshs223,433 residents into COFFEE farmers in Central Province tion level of ICT amongst staff /man- “In the year 2010, rice production was paid to farmers,” said Mwenje. earned Kshs 4.4 billion last year. Ac- agement committees in the co-opera- was 2.5 million kilogrammes com- The urban savings and credit co- misery cording to the annual report, Central tives and selection of coffee milling pared to 2.4 million kilogrammes in operative societies granted its mem- By PETER MUTUKU Provincial Cooperative Officer Mutu- and marketing agents. the year 2009 which was an increase,” bers loans in the year 2010 which gi Mwenje said out of this about Kshs Meanwhile, rice farmers from added the officer. amounted to Kshs 7.2 billion as com- THE drought situation in Mwingi Dis- 3.7 billion was paid to farmers. Central Kenya earned about Kshs120 Meanwhile, pyrethrum farm- pared to Kshs6.3 billion in year 2009 trict has pushed most families in the This was an increase in payments million last year. ers produced 2,364 kilogrammes the while loan repayment in year 2010 area to poverty and starvation. Today, compared to year 2009 when the crop Central Provincial Cooperatives same year compared to 2, 415 Kilo- was Kshs13.6 compared to Kshs8.3 most parents can hardly afford to pro- earned Kshs4.3 billion while farmers Officer Mutugi Mwenje said in the an- grammes in year 2009. billion in year 2009. vide basic necessities to their families received Kshs 3.3 billion. owing to the prolonged periods of “However, coffee production de- drought and persistent famine in the creased in year 2010 to 95.2 million semi arid region. kilogrammes compared to 110.5 mil- A report by the children’s depart- lion kilogrammes in year 2009 which ment reveals that most parents are was a decrease of 13.8 per cent. This abandoning their children in the face was to due to unfavorable weather of starvation. Data shows that child conditions,” said Mwenje. neglect tops the list of reported cases The Cooperatives Officer said at 228 mainly blamed on the high lev- the coffee sector was also affected by els of poverty among residents. many challenges including poor crop Majority of children in the six husbandry, lack of credit facilities es- Districts of Mwingi Central, Mwingi pecially for marketing societies and East, Mwingi West, Kyuso, Mumoni lack of value addition especially in the and Tseikuru have been left under the dairy and coffee sector. care of aged grandparents. Other challenges that affected Family separation and divorce, she the coffee sector included lack of adds coupled with domestic violence, guaranteed prices especially in the drug and alcohol abuse by young par- international markets, lack of market ents had been identified as some of research and market information to other common causes of child neglect. the societies and members, poor infra- According to the Children’s Of- structure leading to high operational ficer Jacinta Mwinzi, the situation has costs and hawking of coffee by mem- resulted in increased cases of child bers of cooperatives to the extent that labour, school dropout, child abuse some marketing societies like Kiam- (both physical and sexual), dehuman- bu, Kirinyaga and Murang’a counties Kimabara Coffee Factory workers in Mathira district prepare coffee ready for sale at the factory recently. Coffee ising treatment, child trafficking and became unviable. farmers in Central Province earned Sh 4.4 billion last year Photo/Joseph Mukubwa Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) She says that many children had dropped out of school at a tender age By BRIGHTON KAZUNGU or had failed to enrol in school, thus Ways to cushion Kinango from famine devised denying them prospects for a bright THE Government with support from future. development partners is exploring alter- farmers only required to buy drugs. than a domestic cat, that is known to says despite the potential, farmers in “A high number of the out of native sources of livelihood to manage Samaritan Purse is currently holding swiftly revert to the wild, and it is prob- Kinango are yet to fully embrace goat school groups seek employment as the recurrent drought and famine in arid meetings with community members to ably this quality that makes the two ani- rearing as a source of income. She says herd boys, house girls, shamba boys, and semi arid areas. explain how the programme that targets mals among the most enduring. despite training and advices to farmers, Among initiatives set for introduc- the poor will work. Goats reach puberty between 6-15 many community members have not matatu touts and cart and wheel bar- tion include goat rearing project which Mr. Njenga says beneficiaries are to months based on the breed and nutrition adopted modern methods of animal hus- row pushers in market places, porters has been earmarked for implementation get two female goats and one buck of the status. With a gestation period of 150 bandry. She says farmers are unwilling at bus stops, scrap metal collectors in the dry parts of Kwale County, name- Galla goat variety. The breeds are more days, a goat can have at least two kids in to try out improved breeds that would and other unhealthy and degrading ly Kinango and Lungalunga. productive and bigger than local breeds one year. Some breeds have up to three give them more meat and milk. occupations,” she says. Samaritan’s Purse, a local Non- and to ensure the programme spreads to kids at a time which can add up to six Ms. Katsutsu says farmers in Ki- She says girls are the hardest hit Governmental Organisation plans to other farmers, a beneficiary is supposed new goats in one year. nango are obsessed with maize produc- with some of them being turned into introduce a goat rearing project that to repay three goats in two years before The Kinango Livestock Production tion and are unwilling to pay attention sex slaves. would survive the hostile climate. the animals are passed to other farmers. Officer, Ms. Nelly Katsutsu, says despite to other forms of farming that would as- She says child trafficking preva- According to a Livestock Officer A beneficiary cannot sell an animal the erratic rainfall pattern in Kinango to sure availability of food. lent in the District with many children with the NGO Samson Njenga, the until they have cleared their debt. sustain any form of maize production, it Ms. Katsutsu says different organi- being shipped out to far away areas project dubbed “Kinango Livestock Kinango Veterinary Officer, Dr. has always been enough to improve the zations run programmes that seek for such as Nairobi and Mombasa where Programme” seeks to assist the poor Awich Nunda, says goats are also less quantity and quality of pasture. She says the improvement of the quality of goats they are usually abused. become less vulnerable to drought and susceptible to drought and diseases than pans and earth dams also collect enough in Kinango yet few farmers take advan- The officer says sexual harass- poverty by creating alternative sources other livestock. This and their ability to water from the surface run-off to sustain tage of the programmes to improve their ment directed towards girls and boys of income. survive drought makes them an ideal the animals. As a result, the livestock stock. were on the rise in the region adding Njenga says the goat rearing project source of income for the community. production officer says goats are usually Goat farmers have in the past been that girls bear the heaviest brunt of the best suits the area as goats are less risky Goats are resilient and thrive in semi in good body condition. left at the mercy of middle men who abuse. to rear than cattle. The drier it is, the bet- arid conditions and can hardly succumb She says goat keeping has poten- buy the livestock cheaply and sell them She claims the high cases of incest ter for a goat which can go for three to to harsh climatic conditions. Goats need tial to be a major income earner for at twice or thrice the price. Samaritan’s seven days without water. less water than cattle and sheep do and local communities with the ready mar- Purse has eliminated the challenge by involving parents and relatives are of- Goats hardly receive any medical feed on a broader spectrum of vegeta- ket for the animals and their milk. A linking farmers to markets. The first lot ten reported to her office, alongside care. The most common goat diseases tion than other livestock. Not only do goat is retailing between Kshs.2,500 of goats was delivered directly to Pungu other common forms of sexual abuse include pneumonia, foot rot, intesti- they graze, they also browse on leaves to Kshs.3,500, while the milk goes for slaughterhouse, which serves Kwale which mainly point to teachers, neigh- nal parasites and food toxicity but the and soft backs from shrubs. Kshs.50 per litre. and Mombasa Counties, earlier this bours, parents workmates and friends. project takes care of treatment with A goat is the only animals, other The Livestock Production Officer year. The officer says child battering and verbal abuse is also common while FGM was quietly taking place in sections of Mwingi where girls un- dergo the cut either through coercion Nzoia cane farmers up in arms over graft or of their own volition. The report says due to the high By LUKE KAPCHANGA selling cane to Butali, West Kenya and Its objectives include promoting cane as the Company was yet to resume school dropout rate the literacy levels Mumias sugar companies in early Au- the interest of farmers besides ensuring operations after the company temporary have dropped, with most youth be- SUGARCANE farmers allied to Nzoia gust to frustrate board of directors who enough supplies to meet the required shut down to allow for annual mainte- coming adults before they attain basic Sugar Company are up in arms follow- are currently spearheading a campaign threshold by the Nzoia factory. nance. education. ing revelations that managers at the against poaching. They also provide financial support The MD was however unable to ex- Further, the children continue to factory are secretly selling their crop to The Nzoia out Grower Company to members within the crop production plain why they have kept the board of perform poorly in national examina- competitors. (NOCO) which is supposed to inter- chain to help in land preparation, plant- directors in darkness about the supply tions despite the opportunities created The farmers say that the factory is vene in situations where cane is sup- ing, cultivation and supply of goods and deal despite not following the correct by the Free Primary and subsidised likely to face cane shortages once it plied directly to millers without farmers related services. procedure. consent has remained non-committal The revelations came amidst stiff In late July, the company’s manage- secondary education. resumes its operations at the end of this The officer says poor planning, month. over the issue. competition by millers who are paying ment came under sharp scrutiny after it Farmers claim that this is part of an NOCO whose membership current- between Kshs. 3,900 – 4,100 per ton, emerged that they had allocated Kshs lack of role models, proper leadership, elaborate strategy by the management ly stands at 47,000 cane farmers is man- while Nzoia pays Kshs. 3,100 per ton. 10million to oversee the anti poach- absence of political goodwill and mis- to run down the factory before the pro- dated to negotiate on behalf of farmers Contacted for comment, the MD, ing campaign. Sources indicate that placed priorities in addressing issues posed privatization of the company. the terms of supply, co ordination of Saulo Wasilwa said,” we have an un- Nzoia Sugar factory lost an estimated relating to children had a bearing on The management of Nzoia started production, harvesting and transporta- dertaking with the Ministry of Agricul- Kshs.274,442,720 through poaching the sad state of affairs that had relegat- tion of cane. ture to supply other millers with mature during the2009/2010 financial year. ed children to degrading lifestyles. The Link, November 2011 FARMING 27

By KAVYU KURA WANTON degradation of Machakos forests coupled with the pro- Bee keeping in Mwingi longed drought has conspired farmers to to rob Mwingi region of its al- lure as a producer of high qual- grow drought ity honey. faces imminent collapse A honey production expert tolerant crops David Muinde laments that honey making. By PETER MUTUKU other factors like poor harvest- “The widespread and in- ing methods, poor manage- discriminate felling of trees for THE government plans to give out ment of beehives and use of charcoal burning in most parts drought tolerant seeds to farmers in outmoded log hives for bee of Mwingi has adversely af- Machakos District to minimize ef- keeping have contributed to fected sources of water which fects of drought that has grossly af- about 90 percent drop in honey is crucial not only for bee sur- fected agricultural output in the area. production. vival but for honey production. A monitoring report indicates Muinde who is an expert We encourage bee keepers to that farmers in the area have incurred in bee management and honey prepare sugar syrups for their heavy losses from crops they had production is dismayed by bees in times of drought and planted in the last season. the fact that Mwingi residents water scarcity,” said Musyoka. Speaking to The Link at his of- including the honey refinery The poor honey yields have fice, Machakos District Agricultural depot in Mwingi town have to adversely affected operations Officer, Mr Nicholas Nzombe, urged rely on honey imported from at the Mwingi town honey re- farmers to embrace drought resistant Tanzania to meet local demand. finery reputed for production crops such as cowpeas and sorghum Speaking to The Link on of the best eco-honey both for which can survive harsh climatic the sidelines of the Kyuso dis- local and international market. conditions to increase food produc- trict World Food Day celebra- The refinery-Mwingi Honey tion and fight famine in the area. tion at Kamuwongo market Place- was not only operating Mr Nzombe also asked farmers recently, Muinde said local bee under capacity but was on the to prepare terraces in their land in keepers were constantly en- verge of closure for lack of raw order to prevent soil erosion. couraged to adopt modern bee honey. The agricultural officer asked keeping methods to save the lu- A manager at the refinery, farmers to plant certified seeds and crative industry from collapse. Joseph Mutua, said the fact that buy fertilizers such as C.A.N and “We have enlightened bee- the factory has been sourcing D.A.P in authorized dealer outlets. keepers on the need to discard raw honey from far off places He said that the department is the old fashioned log hives that was not only expensive but currently liaising with the Kenya lead to a general decline in bee quality has also been com- Meteorological Department at the population during honey har- promised as the honey can- Kenya Agricultural Research Insti- vesting season in favour of the not compare with the original tute (KARI) in Katumani in Macha- modern Langstroth hives that Mwingi honey. kos to help provide farmers with give high honey yields and al- He lamented that due to valuable information on the rainfall low broad daylight honey har- low production, his organiza- patterns for the coming planting sea- vesting,” said Muinde. tion has been unable to meet son. He added that bee keepers local and external demand for Elsewhere, consumers in Macha- were also constantly encour- its eco-honey that was in Feb- kos County have hailed the Govern- aged to spearhead the cam- ruary last year voted the best ment for the move to reintroduce paign against deforestation that pure organic honey in Africa Honey production expert in Kyuso district David Muinde shows the price control measures on consumer denies bees a conducive envi- during a trade fair held in the modern Langstroth hive while the oldmoded log hive hangs above his goods, saying they have been at the ronment for pollination and Germany city of Nuremberg. head. Photo/Kavyu-Kura mercy of exploitative traders. A jubilant group of residents told The Link the law on price control Nasewa land by Mumias Sugar Com- was long overdue after some trad- Kibos sweetens sugar prices to entice farmers pany (MSC) to recover a debt from the ers exhibited greed for huge profits defunct Busia Sugar Factory. without regard to the economic sta- County more than 20 years ago after Saini noted that they had bought tus of the consumers. By JOEL JUMA The mill, if put up, will be the fifth in Western Province. The fourth mill in the government bought the land and the land but stopped the transactions Led by a resident, Mr Douglas the subsequent collapse of Busia Sug- for the matter to be cleared. Mutiso, they said most families had KIBOS Sugar Company in Kisumu the region is the Butali Sugar Mill built at a cost Kshs3 billion in Kakamega ar Company, farmers in the area have MSC confirmed that the title of abandoned essential ingredients in County has announced new payments been exploited. Saini noted that Kibos land under dispute is in the name of their menu such as sugar while ra- for cane delivered to the factory. The North District and commissioned in January. has put up two weighbridges near the Busia Sugar Company and the docu- tioning consumption of staple maize company said it will pay Kshs4, 350 farms and has been paying farmers on ments are in possession of KSB. MSC meal due to soaring costs leading to per tonne of cane delivered to the fac- West Kenya Sugar Company in Kakamega North District and Africa weekly basis. insisted that it is only interested in re- malnutrition. tory, making it the highest paying sug- Farmers had protested the sale of covering a debt BSC owed it. ar mill in the country. Polysat have also shown interest in Managing director Henminder Singh setting up a mill at Nasewa. There has # Saini said the prevailing market forces been a lot of controversy surround- prompted the new payments. “The ing the establishment of a factory in The SUBSCRIPTION FORM price of sugar has gone up. We can- Nasewa area. Farmers have been de- not continue to pay farmers the same manding that a factory in Nasewa land should be put up on leasehold. LinkEnhancing governance for all amounts of money when what they are producing is fetching large sums of Saini has said he is ready to com- money,” he added. ply with conditions set by Busia cane farmers. He said he has taken into Mumias Sugar Company pays Please accept my/our subscription to The Link for the period of ...... months Kshs4, 185 while Butali Sugar Mills consideration all concerns raised by farmers in the area. He added that the and West Kenya Sugar Company in dating from ...... to...... Kakamega North District pay Kshs3, factory would be modern and that they would later diversify production. “In 800 and Kshs3, 700 per tonne respec- I/We …………………….………………...………………… of P.O. Box...... ….…...... …… tively. Kibos further announced that future, we will go into co-generation and pulp and paper production,” stated farmers will be paid on a weekly basis. Code ……...…… Town …...... ….…..….…Tel No.…….……...... …. Street ...... “We will not delay any payments. Saini, in an interview with The Link. He noted that about 500 people Farmers will get paid on a weekly ba- Building ...... Floor ...... Room No ...... Mobile ...... …… sis,” he added. will be employed on a permanent ba- sis in the initial stages and 2, 000 on Kibos was the first sugar mill in Email: ……...... have paid Kshs...... the country to put up weighbridges contract terms. “We project to give the Government Kshs700million in near the farms. Kibos, which sponsors (Attached, please find money order No ...... Kalplony Limited, further announced revenue in the early stages,” he ex- plained. it will put up a Ksh5 billion sugar Please send me ……...... ………....………..copies per issue every month. mill at Nasewa area in Busia County. The chairman of Western Devel- opment Initiative Association Joseph Kaplony indicated that it has already Signature and /or stamp of client/:...... …...… Date ...... applied for a license from the Kenya Baraza said Busia farmers want bet- ter pay and good working relations Sugar Board (KSB). Saini said he will Back issues No/Months: ...... put up a factory in Busia as soon as he with the mill which will be set up at Nasewa. is issued with a license. Fill in this form and attach a postal money order of Kshs. 660 and post back to:- “We have already conducted a “Farmers do not want frustrations. They want to be paid promptly, prob- feasibility study which was done by Institute for Civic Affairs and Development a firm from India. The environmental ably on a weekly basis,” said Baraza. impact assessment test and factory site Following failure to construct P.O. Box 7438 - 00200 Nairobi layout are also complete,” added Saini. the proposed sugar factory in Busia The Link, November 2011 28 FARMING/NEWS

By BRIGHTON KAZUNGU KARI unveils new fruit fly control methods KENYA Agricultural Research Insti- tute (KARI) Mtwapa in Kilifi County who are engaged in cash crop farming 2012 when the season ends, she says. “It has been common in the past incurred for lack of reliable market plans to launch a biological control of and have recorded high production of Ms. Kanamu says the 250 farm- to see only 100 mangoes getting sold during the production season. pests in Bahari district this year. the fruits. ers who will undergo the training will after maturity out of thousands due “Our fruits got wasted at the Mt- The project which is a joint ini- She said farmers have incurred become trainers of other farmers after to the effect of the pest,” says Katana wapa processing season due to the tiative with the International Centre heavy losses due to the fly that has their graduation, especially on the use Nzai, a prominent farmer in Kikam- low demand by the only factory serv- for Insect Physiology and Ecology damaged the fruits before maturing. of biological methods to control the bala Division. ing the region,” they said. (ICIPE) targets the mango fruit fly “The two bodies have offered to pro- mango fruit fly. He says he has over 300 trees but The Coast Development Authori- which has caused massive destruction vide experts who will train extension Farmers have for many years in- his harvest has been minimal, fetching ty Director, Mr. James Mangi, said in of mangoes over the years. staff in the ministry of agriculture curred heavy economic losses after him less than Kshs.10,000 per season. Kilifi recently a new fruit processing The Bahari District Agricultural on biological control of the pests most of the produce got rotten either Other farmers have also been urging factory has been set up in Tana River Officer, Ms. Jane Kanamu, says the throughout the mango season begin- before maturing or immediately after the Government to put up process- County to ease congestion at Mtwapa project initially targets 250 farmers ning last month to the end of February maturity. ing factories to avoid heavy losses factory. Tetu coffee farmers protest over graft By JOSEPH MUKUBWA “The chairman has been harassing and intimidating us ABOUT 100 coffee farmers of whenever we demand audit re- Thiriku Coffee Society in Tetu ports of the society. We are ap- District have protested over pealing to the government to the alleged mismanagement of dispatch auditors to scrutinize the society. the society books of accounts The irate farmers matched and unveil the truth,” added for more than one kilometer Muita. from the society headquarters The irate farmers claimed protesting over financial mis- they had been barred from de- management and accusing the livering their produce to the society chairman Erastus Ma- society and wondered where thenge of harassment and sell- they would be taking their ber- ing their coffee without their ries which is their only source consent. of income. Shouting anti –chairman However, contacted for slogans, the farmers demand- comment, the chairman dis- ed for immediate Government missed the protestors accusing intervention. them of being troubleshooters. “The society ordered ferti- “Some of them vied for var- lizer worth over Kshs1.2 mil- ious seats in the last AGM and lion which they paid but the lost. They should be contented company that delivered the and wait for the next election commodity continued to de- and contest the seats instead of mand payment from us. The demonstrating,” he said. fertilizer, they claimed had He refuted allegations that now accumulated interest the society had denied them amounting to shillings Kshs6 access to accounts. million,” claimed one farmer Farmers at Thiriku Coffee Society in Tetu district of Nyeri County protesting over mismanage- The chairman added that Samuel Muita. ment allegations of the society. Photo/Joseph Mukubwa currently farmers were being Another farmer John Kiru- deducted money to recover gumi claimed that the chair- which was intercepted at The farmers added that without a permit landed them Kshs 30 million loan advanced man Mathenge has delivered Gathaithi area and returned to their demand to know why in court and the case was dis- to the society by Cooperative about 243 bags to a miller the factory. the coffee was being delivered missed recently. Bank. Increasing productivity critical to food security By SARAH IMMENSCHUH of the Comprehensive Africa Agri- and sequencing are equally impor- tor of UNECA’s Food Security and ture to facilitate trade of goods— culture Development Programme. tant. Agricultural productivity can Sustainable Development Division, both at the country level, and across HIGH-LEVEL policymakers, lead- In the past decade, many coun- be achieved in many ways including “Increasing agricultural productiv- borders—would serve as an oppor- ing academics, and representatives tries in Sub-Saharan Africa have spreading knowledge of improved ity in Africa calls for broader policy tunity to improve food security in from farmer and trader organizations experienced historically rapid eco- practices to smallholders, increas- and strategic frameworks that en- Africa,” said Abebe Haile-Gebriel, and the private sector gathered in nomic growth and notable social ing the use of high-quality seeds and compass the whole agriculture value director of the AUC’s Rural Econo- Ethiopia to identify investment pri- change, yet poverty, hunger, and fertilizer, properly irrigating land, chain, including agribusiness and my and Agriculture Division. orities and policy options that can malnutrition remain widespread developing strong institutions, link- agro-industrial sectors as well as Experts at the conference ex- help increase agricultural productiv- problems. With a large proportion of ing producers to markets, and ap- farming.” Sustainably meeting food amined issues related to: science, ity in Sub-Saharan Africa, thereby the population living in rural areas propriately addressing disease and demands in the future—despite a technology, and innovation in agri- reducing rural poverty, hunger, and and working in agriculture, the so- conflict. Urgent actions—especially growing population and diminish- culture; rural services and access to malnutrition in the region. lution to these problems largely lies improving capacity and farmer sup- ing natural resources—will require inputs; markets, trade, and regional The November 1–3 conference in increasing agricultural productiv- port systems—are needed among all a greater emphasis on productivity integration and value chains; invest- “Increasing Agricultural Productiv- ity. To achieve this African Heads competing tasks. growth. ments, institutions, and policies for ity and Enhancing Food Security in of State and Government commit- Research-based evidence is re- “Increasing agricultural produc- supporting agriculture; agriculture, Africa: New Challenges and Oppor- ted to “allocate at least ten percent quired to tailor these methods to spe- tivity is not a panacea to all prob- nutrition, and health linkages; agri- tunities,” was co-organized by the of the national budgetary resources cific needs. But then this evidence lems, but it can make a significant culture and climate change mitiga- International Food Policy Research to agriculture and rural development must be communicated to users. positive contribution to resolve is- tion and adaptation; capacity de- Institute (IFPRI), the African Un- policy implementation within five FARA’s executive director Monty sues of food insecurity in Africa,” velopment for agriculture through ion Commission (AUC), the United years” as part of the 2003 Maputo Jones said, “We must go beyond said Shenggen Fan, IFPRI director education and training; and the Nations Economic Commission for Declaration to accelerate six percent just research to increase productiv- general. nexus of agriculture and the rural Africa (UNECA), and the Forum annual agricultural growth. Howev- ity. Strengthening extension services In order for agricultural productiv- nonfarm sector in growth and pov- for Agricultural Research in Africa er, many countries have not put their and infrastructure, and implement- ity to improve the lives of the poor, it erty reduction (FARA). Speakers and participants commitment into practice. ing policies that support agricultural needs a supportive environment, par- “Innovations in investment, in- will showcase opportunities to im- As a first step, African countries productivity and increase rural in- ticularly increased access to markets. stitutions, technology, strategy, and prove agricultural productivity and need to gear their efforts to increase comes will reduce hunger and pov- Markets in particular pose a ma- partnerships will enhance productiv- explore how they can be effectively investment in agriculture. But it is erty.” jor challenge to poor people in rural ity and greatly enhance food and nu- implemented through the framework not sufficient, and right priorities According to Josué Dioné, direc- areas. “Improving rural infrastruc- trition security in Africa,” said Fan. The Link, November 2011 29 REGIONAL NEWS Pastors cleanse Mwingi black spot Busia By KAVYU-KURA said the accident that killed 13 people fered as sacrifice through the powers predators who would kill and suck the was caused either by the evil powers of wizardry or jinns which we have blood of road users through accidents. ARMED with Bibles, Hymn books of the jinnis or witchcraft because today come to declare subdued,” said “Those who perform evil acts residents and Holy Oils, Christians in Mwingi it was inexplicable how an accident pastor Isika. of planting jinns at this junction are recently invoked divine intervention could happen on such a smooth and He said that the evil minded people doomed because we have come to to end road carnage at a notorious straight stretch of the highway. who could have gotten the jinns from subdue them. We have come to exor- question black spot along the Nairobi-Mwingi- “This is obviously a spot where Mombasa, Tanzania or even Garissa cise the demons and other evil charms Garissa where 13 people perished in a no one would expect any accident to in search of easy wealth could have from this place,” declared pastor Isika grisly accident recently. occur. It is an altar where lives are of- cast the jinns at the Thitha junctions as at the Thitha junction prayers. safety of Christian faithfuls congregated for roadside prayers to cleanse the Thitha junction in Mutwangombe area near purifier Mwingi town, where the killer acci- dent. The interdenominational prayers By JOEL JUMA were preceded with a march along the road as the faithful sang praises Residents of Busia County to God and sprinkled a mixture of have expressed fears over the holy anointing oil and white iodised safety of a water purifier being salt on either side of the road at the introduced to them. place where the Mandera bound bus Some locals are going crashed. round saying the machine is Rev. Julius Nyerere of the Mwingi being given to them to control town’s Messiahship Worship centre their population in the pretext led the prayers with assistance from of purifying water. by Pastor Isaac Isika of the local Je- They allege that the ma- sus Sacred Assembly. He declared that chines are fitted with family accidents that often occurred in the planning chemicals. area were the work of evil spirits that “We are told that the Gov- would hence forth remain subdued. ernment has plotted to reduce Nyerere said that with the pouring our population for unknown of the holy anointing oil on the area reasons. The way the machine around the Thitha turn-off known to works is very suspicious,” said be a notorious black spot, the power of Alfred Etyang. death that had reigned in the area for He noted that when one long had been effectively demolished. pours 20 liters of water in the “This place is now secured from machine, about 10 liters disap- the invasion of the devil that had re- pears mysteriously. peatedly caused bloodshed. The yoke The mystery surrounding of the devil has been effectively bro- the operation of the machines ken and there will be no more fatal ac- has paved way for the spread cidents,” Rev. Nyerere said. of rumors discouraging the use During the prayers, Pastor Isika The faithful and their pastors gather at the spot where 13 people died. Photos/Kavyu-Kura of the gadgets. An educator on the use By JOEL JUMA of the machines Isaac Emaja termed the rumours as base- ASSISTANT Minister Manyala Keya Keya cautions colleagues against mudslinging less. has told MPs from Kakamega County “Most MPs are opposed to the phas- elections are held. “LATF may not exist encourages joint participation to com- He said the machine does to stop engaging in smear campaigns ing out of the CDF kitty despite the fact as its structures are to be handled by the plement each other,” he added. Amukoa not use any chemicals to pu- as they seek to ascend to positions of that the Government has allocated funds Governors,” said Keya. was speaking during a graduation cer- rify water but rather uses a car- power created by the new constitution. to help in the completion of all projects Muruli urged MPs to complete all emony of widows from Kakamega who tridge that sieves out germs. Keya took issue with Planning Min- in the current financial year,” he said. stalled projects before the next elections. had been trained on various skills. “The gadget is cheap, long ister Wycliffe Oparanya for using the The assistant minister was speaking He explained that 70 per cent of MPs The over 30 widows received free lasting and provides an en- Constituency Development Fund (CDF) during a tour of CDF funded projects in lost their positions in the last regime, training on tailoring and hair dressing vironmental friendly way of kitty to undermine him while campaign- his Lurambi constituency. which resulted in the abandonment of courtesy of Reaching the Un-reached. ing for the post of Governorship. Keya Oparanya and Khalwale have con- their projects. They were each given a sewing machine purifying water. It uses a car- said the minister and Ikolomani MP stantly accused Keya of not using the Meanwhile, a Kakamega-based and a small capital to open tailoring tridge that has very tiny pores Bonny Khalwale should keep off the CDF money to rehabilitate roads in the community based organization shops at their places of choice. which cannot allow bacteria affairs of Lurambi constituency in their constituency. Khalwale even threatened (CBO) has urged the Government Also present during the occasion and other toxic substances to campaigns. to summon Keya before the Parliamen- to encourage public-private part- was Joan Hadlow, the coordinator pass through. It does not con- “They should concentrate on their tary Accounts Committee (PAC) for nerships in addressing the needs of Reaching the Un-reached, UK. Hadlow tain chemicals,” stated Emaja. affairs as they also have their problems grilling over the matter. widows and orphans. Reaching the said the increasing number of widows He added that the high rate in managing the CDF kitty in their re- Keya who was accompanied by the Un-reached CBO said addressing the and orphans should be a cause for con- of illiteracy in Teso, has con- spective areas,” said Keya who is an as- National CDF Board Public relations needs of the two groups would be fu- cern. She said the HIV/Aids scourge has tributed to ignorance that poses sistant minister in the ministry of Gen- Manager George Muruli said he will tile if the Government does not join led to the rise in the number of orphans a big challenge in the success der and Children Affairs. ensure that all projects initiated by the hands with the private sector. and widows, a matter which should be of the project. He explained that the devolved Gov- former Lurambi MP late Newton Ku- The director of the CBO Andrew addressed jointly by all stakeholders. The Malaba Dispensary ernment should unite MPs at the county lundu are completed. Amukoa lamented that the Government “Majority of bread winners are men. clinical officer Henry Obonyo level. Keya said he will lobby to have Keya urged MPs to ensure that the and the private sector each go their own This means that when a woman is wid- urged residents to disregard the the CDF kitty retained when the County Local Authority Transfer Fund (LATF) way in addressing community prob- owed, she is left with no source of in- rumors terming them as mis- Governments are created. is also debated in Parliament before lems. “We need to have a system that come,” she added. leading and malicious. He confirmed that the gadg- et is absolutely safe and there has never been any reported case of harm because the ma- Kosgey gets nod for senate seat chine is free from chemicals. “In fact, the machine is saf- By LAWRENCE KOECH Nandi council of elders – kaburwo at that the devolved funds shall proof day running of the county. the county hall, they expressed their challenging to manage and called on Mr. Kosgey is among the six er than chemicals that you buy CIVIC leaders and council members confidence in the leader. “We shall professionals of reliability and high- suspects mentioned by ICC prosecu- from shops because it only uses of Nandi Kaburwo have unanimously stand by you just as we have done est levels of clear-headedness to of- tor Luis Moreno Ocampo as having a cartridge that acts as a sieve endorsed Industrialisation Minister during the ICC pretrial confirmation fer their expertise to the benefit of the played chief role in the post poll vio- to filter germs. The machine is Henry Kosgey to run for the senate of charges at The Hague” asserted Mr. county. lence that rocked Kenya in the 2007 100 percent safe for domestic seat in Nandi County come next year. Malel. He alluded that culture will go general elections. This has on the face use. I personally use it in my Led by the chair of Nandi county The politician who skipped men- along way in governing Nandi county. of it augured well for the politician home,” he said. council Mr. Joel Malel the leaders tioning matters surrounding the ICC Amid applause laughter from the pen- who is more celebrated as a brave son Western region has very have vowed to marshal support be- hearings thanked the civic leaders for sive civic leaders from Nandi south, of the soil. In retrospect the pretrial high prevalence of water hind honorable koskey in his bid for their confidence in him and promised Nandi north, Tinderet, Nandi east hearings at The Hague has, to many borne diseases, a situation that the senate. “There is no other more to work as a team with whoever shall and Nandi central, the leader empha- political observers, served to be a prompted the government to qualified leader than Mr. Kosgey” said be elected to govern the county gov- sized that kalenjin community oper- blessing in disguise for the leader and move in to curb the problem. Mr. Joel. ernment. He expressed concern that ate on unwritten code of conduct that his fellow suspects .This has earned Most homesteads have been In a well attended closed door residents in Nandi County should observe discipline ,self respect and them more political mileage and this supplied with the gadget in the meeting convened by the council be ready to go aboard on new mode honor to God and that this and other could explain their unparalleled blan- region. and graced by top officials from the of county governance. He observed tenets shall be inculcated in the day to ket endorsement. The Link, November 2011 30 REGIONAL NEWS World Vision New water project gives helps Taitas to get birth hope to Nyeri residents certificates By BRIGHTON KAZUNGU By JOSEPH MUKUBWA PARENTS in Ghazi area within BEING healthy is an important aspect Voi District, Taita Taveta County, of our daily lives and a large part of have finally managed to secure it is influenced by what we eat and 9,600 birth certificates for their drink. children through an initiative This has been made a reality since launched by the World Vision, more than 140, 000 residents of Nyeri Kenya, the Voi Constituency De- Municipality can now enjoy enough velopment Fund, Departments of supply of treated water through the Registrar of Births and Deaths and Nyeri Water and Sewerage Company Education. (NYEWASCO). Area District Commissioner, Previously, the company could Mr. Raphael Lemaletian, urged only cater for a population of 50,000 parents in the area to take advan- consumers but through its new Water tage of the initiative to obtain the Treatment works at Kamakwa, it has certificates early enough to avoid been able to serve 9,000 more con- last minute rush. sumers with treated water and with He said now that birth certifi- enough capacity to cater for the future cates were mandatory in the regis- projected population of 200,000 by tering for National examinations, the year 2015. parents and guardians should ap- Moreover, Kiganjo Township ply for them immediately the chil- which has had an independent water dren are born. supply through pumping, is now be- The administrator ordered ing served with treated water, by grav- chiefs and the assistants to arrest ity, from the new Kamakwa Water parents whose children are not in Treatment works. school. Speaking to visitors from Mavoko A senior Programme Officer and Garisa Water and Sewerage Com- with the World Vision-Kenya, pany (GAWASCO and MAVWAS- Mr. Gerishon Mwakazi, said the CO) at Kamakwa treatment works, Horse pipework at Nyewasco water treatment plant at Kamakwa at the outskirts of Nyeri town. programme was carried out by the plant manager Charles Kiiru says Photo/Joseph Mukubwa the organization at the cost of that the new works could deliver a ca- Kshs.850,000. pacity of 21,000 meters cubic per day. chemical dosing building, basins, rapid gravity sand filters, filter gal- eri Municipal Council. On October He said the initiative had saved The gigantic plant consists of a horizontal flow sedimentation tanks, lery and pipe work, a pumping sta- 2005, the company signed a Service parents and guardians money lost tion, reinforced concrete clear water Provision Agreement with Tana Wa- through brokers who purport that tank, chlorine dosing and PH correc- ter Services Board and became its they can obtain the certificates tion room, administration building, Agent. Its five-year-period tariff was faster at a fee. generator room, backwash collection approved on October 2008 by Water The County’s Registrar of pond and sludge drying beds and an Services Regulatory Board (WAS- Births and Deaths Officer, Mr. elevated steel tank on a tower. REB). Francis Waweru, said the main “The Nyeri Water Supply Project The company entails of a sewer- constraint his officers had expe- was funded to the tune of Kshs850 age works at Kangemi and at Kiganjo, rienced include failure by some million by the German government a water treatment works at Kamakwa, parents and guardians to obtain through its bank for international de- an intake at Ihwa along Chania River, National Identity cards that were velopment- Kreditanstalt Fur Wieder- water distribution network, infill sew- mandatory in the issuance of birth aufbau (KWF). ers and storage reservoirs at Tetu, certificates. This was after a feasibility study Mathari, Hill Farm, Golf Course and The District Education Officer, was carried out between 1994 and Ngangarithi. Mr. Michael Machora, said the 1998 by HP Gauff Engineers”, added Jointly with the Tana Water Serv- transport expenses and ignorance Kiiru. ice Board, NYEWASCO has con- among parents and guardians were Nyeri Water and Sewerage Com- tinued to express frantic efforts in the major setbacks considering pany was incorporated on September offering treated water and sewerage that civil registration was done at Sludge drying bed at Nyewasco water treatment plant at Kamakwa at 1997 and commenced its operations services to residents within the Nyeri Wundanyi, the Headquarters of the outskirts of Nyeri town. Photo/Joseph Mukubwa on July 1998, registered under Ny- Municipality. the former larger Taita District. Orange launches tech to curb counterfeiting By HENRY OWINO vice. the Government Chemist and the expressed. prevent and suppress the production The Telkom Kenya CEO was ad- Pharmaceutical and Poisons Board Counterfeits hurt the economies of and distribution of counterfeit drugs THE Orange Telkom has launched a dressing journalists at a hotel in Nai- to fight the infiltration of counterfeit developing countries such as Kenya by introducing stringent rules on des- new technology to curb the supply of robi where he demonstrated how the drugs in Kenya. as well as developed nations and af- ignated entry points where drugs can counterfeit drugs. new technology works. Prof Nyongo described the move fects governments revenue. be imported into the country. The initiative dubbed Mpedigree “For now we are putting two types taken by the Telkom Kenya as a A survey conducted by the World He singled out the development of will help subscribers to detect coun- of drugs in the market for trial but the good synergy between the health Health Organization in 2007 estimat- a national laboratory to test drug qual- terfeit drugs that have infiltrated the system is expected to roll out to all care and ICT sectors. He added that ed that approximately 20,000 people ity as some of the measures that have local market. medicinal drugs with time,” Ghossein the launch has come at the right time, lose their lives every year due to the undoubtedly contributed very much to Subscribers will be able to detect said. when reports indicate an influx of consumption of fake medicines, espe- the reduction of counterfeit drugs. He fake drugs by scratching out the pad The technology is expected to be counterfeit anti-retroviral drugs on cially anti-malaria pills. however said all the efforts cannot ful- on the pack of the medicine to reveal emulated by other mobile phones pro- sale in Kenya. The report further revealed that if ly succeed without collaboration from the serial number then text it to 1393 viders as a way of curbing substand- “The introduction of m-Pedigree such medicines were strictly checked stakeholders such as Telkom Kenya for verification. ard drugs circulating and being bought in Kenya is emboldened by the fact and controlled for their quality, about and other likeminded firms. Orange Kenya boss Mickael by innocent Kenyans at the expense of that it will be addressing an existing one million lives would be saved an- “Consumers’ bodies, individual Ghossein says the new technology their lives and pockets. Most of the need in the local medical system. In nually. It has been alleged that in bodies companies, industry associa- aims at protecting Kenyans from un- counterfeits are sold cheaply yet they fact the production, trafficking and Kenya, counterfeit drugs account for tions and NGOs and more so the gov- scrupulous dealers in the market. do not provide any remedy to medical distribution of counterfeit drugs are over 30 per cent, which translates to ernment has a key role to play, sup- Mr.Ghossein says Orange has conditions. spreading and threatening the health an estimated sum of Kshs.13billion porting responsible media initiatives, partnered with the government, phar- Prof Anyang Nyongo, the Min- and lives of the people and poten- annually. to educate the public buying so that maceutical manufacturers and other ister for Medical Services said the tially destroying the economic foun- The Minister said the Government it becomes socially unacceptable to likeminded firms to help stem the new initiative will be adopted by dation of the country,” Prof Nyongo has undertaken serious measures to have counterfeits,” he added. The Link, November 2011 REGIONAL NEWS 31 Women urged to Nyeri women wants go for early bigger role in new law cancer tests By JOSEPH MUKUBWA By BRIGHTON KAZUNGU NYERI County women claim that women have received a raw deal in the BREAST cancer remains ongoing implementation of the consti- a killer disease mainly due tution. to lack of awareness and a The over 50 women leaders from body to coordinate treat- the six constituencies of Nyeri County ment. and who met in Nyeri town recently This is despite assur- said that women issues have not been ances by doctors who say considered in implementation of the breast cancer is a curable constitution with women being ap- disease if diagnosed at an pointed to lower positions. early stage. The women who were launching Aga Khan Hospital the women’s report on the implemen- tation of the constitution decried that Manager in charge of phar- after carefully monitoring implemen- macy and outpatient serv- tation of the constitution for one year, ices, Dr. Sultane Sherman, the women’s issues have not been con- says the disease has been sidered at the implementation stage. shrouded in stigma. The women were speaking dur- In last year’s exercise, ing a forum known as ‘Foundation for about 1,000 people, mostly women’s rights in Kenya, Mabadiliko women, were screened and ni Sasa’ at Elleemos Conference Cen- 10 of them found to be car- tre in Nyeri town. riers of the disease. “This In a statement which was read by illustrates the gravity of the the Nyeri Women Lobby Group chair- Nyeri County aspiring Senator and former Cabinet Minister Mutahi Kagwe (left) speaking during a women matter,” said Dr. Sherman. person Margaret Nyathogora, they forum in Nyeri town recently. On the right is the Nyeri Women Lobby Group chairperson Margaret Nyathogora. Emphasis should be put on demanded that more women must be Photo/Joseph Mukubwa early detection for men and appointed to senior positions both at women as young as puber- the national and county level. consult with us on the issue of imple- national and county level,” they added. Nyeri County aspiring Senator ty stage. “In the case of the two thirds gen- mentation. They are making laws for The women leaders also said that and former Cabinet Minister Mutahi Speaking at a Breast der principle, we continue to see wom- their own interests,” the Government must start putting Kagwe who gave his key note address Cancer Awareness Walk en being appointed to lower positions. They therefore demanded that the measures to address social economic urged women to apply in large num- held recently, Dr. Sher- Women have not participated in the Government must allocate resources rights such as the right to food, edu- bers for all the positions available at man, said the hospital has constitution implementation process to provide civic education at the local cation, health and housing to avoid the local and national level so that they because they do not have information level. people dying of hunger and also end can be active in politics. partnered with the Breast and there is little understanding of the “The Government and MPs must camps of IDPs. However, the women observed Cancer Survivors-Coast constitution,” said the women. consult with women at the grass root They resolved to work together as that there is increased transparency in (BRECASCO) in offer- Nyathogora continued, “We are level on implementation of the consti- women to hold leaders accountable in appointment of public officers through ing necessary financial and concerned that MPs are insensitive to tution and more women must be ap- the implementation of women’s right advertisements, public interviews and psychological support to our plight. They do not make efforts to pointed to senior positions both at the in the constitution. vetting. victims and survivors. Mombasa and Coast Tourist Association chair- man, Mr. Mohamed Hersi, said breast cancer had tak- Runaway drug abuse ruining lives en a heavy toll on survivors since the disease is expen- By AGGREY BUCHUNJU the region. western province faces serious challenges sniffed or smoked. sive to treat. He claims that 17 percent of adult from alcohol and drug abuse. He named health problems linked to ALCOHOL and drug abuses in Kenya people in the province abuse alcohol, in- The challenges, the PC says have tobacco chewing and sniffing as mouth Hersi, who is also the cluding chang’a, 7.6 per cent abuse tobac- tended to pull back social-economic de- cancers, gum disease, throat cancer, heart General Manager of the Sa- have risen to unprecedented levels. The rising crime rate, HIV/Aids prev- co, while 1.4 percent smokes bhang and velopment including uptake of devolved disease and stroke. Bhang use Dr. Gakun- rova Whitesands, says the alence, school unrests, dysfunctional fam- 1.5 percent chew miraa. The drug culture, funds and participation in national devel- ju, claims that it leads to psychological institution has in the past ily units, poverty and premature deaths Mr. Kilele reiterates that contributes to in- opment agenda. dependence, poor immunity, shrinkage five years partnered with are in most cases attributed to alcohol and security through thefts, illicit brews, drug “It is expected that by the end of this of the brains and impotence among other BRECASCO to offer sup- drug abuse. trafficking and money laundering. “There seminar, you will be able to report objec- harmful effects. port wherever necessary. Apparently no part of the country is is also fear that proceeds from the drugs tively on issues of drug abuse and give “Use of bhang will lead to mental ill- Mombasa Mayor safe from the menace that has negatively trade may fuel terrorist activities,” the PC more space in both print and electronic ness, lung diseases chromosome abnor- Ahmed Mohdhar said the affected the health, social and economic adds. media” the PC told over 30 journalists mality, suppression of the immune sys- municipality will partner productivity of the nation. The Provincial To counter the scenario, the PC re- who attended the seminar. tems and interference with the male and veals that the Government through Na- The two day training of media per- female reproductive functions,” he said. with BRECASCO to sen- Commissioner Western province, Mr. Samuel Kilele admits that the menace tional Campaign Against Drug Abuse sonnel in western and North Rift regions Effects of miraa use Dr. Gakunju said sitise community members of drug abuse is currently felt across the (NACADA) Authority is committed to was facilitated by NACADA Authority. include problems with the reproductive on breast cancer and create country. Mr. Kilele says that alcohol and fighting alcohol and substance Abuse. One of NACADA Authority facili- systems in both men and women. The awareness that is vital for drug abuse is responsible for insecurity, He adds that NACADA has initiated tators Dr. Richard Gakunju passed the men, Dr. Gakunju said develop uncon- early diagnosis and treat- malnutrition, poverty and transmission of programmes to build the capacity of key participants through signs, symptoms and trolled release of sperms followed by ment. HIV/ AIDS and other sexually transmit- players to wage a successful war against effects of alcohol and drug abuse. infertility and impotence. In women, Dr. Mohdhar presented cash ted infections (STIs). drugs. “NACADA has focused on taking Dr. Gakunju named the most com- Gakunju added that the vagina becomes donations to BRECASCO He points out that the enormous nega- a multi-sectoral approach in combating monly abused drugs in Kenya in order of very dry which, makes it difficult to have worth Kshs.100,000 from tive social- economic and health impact alcohol and drug abuse through various prevalence as alcohol, bhang, miraa, inha- sex and leads to painful intercourse and of alcohol and drug abuse to Kenyans is a partnerships with key stakeholders in- lants and prescription medicines. frigidity. Kisauni Member of Par- cluding the media,” the PC says. He disclosed that alcohol contains On inhalants Dr. Gakunju said that liament, Mr. Ali Hassan major concern to the government. “Con- sidering that majority of those affected are Noting that the media can influence ethanol, a very poisonous chemical that they all contain organic solvents which Joho, and Kshs.20,000 Kenyans in their prime of productivity, the behaviour and attitudes of the society, adversely affects body organs immedi- have a very damaging effect on the brain from himself. MTN busi- the Government is worried that alcohol Mr. Kilele challenges the media fraternity ately or gradually over the years. and lungs. In conclusion Dr. Gakunju ness presented a cheque for and drug abuse may seriously impede the to report objectively on issues of alcohol “Alcohol affects’ organs such as the challenged the media to highlight the Kshs.50,000 and Aga Khan attainment of development targets as set and drug abuse and the effects thereof. brain, heart, liver, stomach, pancreas, magnitude and effects of drug abuse in Hospital Mombasa said out in vision 2030 and the Millennium “Your report on alcohol and drug issues Kidneys, skin and bones among other’, society to influence relevant policy inter- it will spend one million Development Goals,” he says. will have a human touch, showing how Dr. Gakunju said. Dr. Gakunju added that ventions. “We want you also to expose shillings in screening and The PC notes with dismay that the the menace affects society in its entirety,” alcohol causes a very serious liver disease illicit drug trade and trade intoxicants treatment. country’s economic development blue- the PC says. called cirrhosis which results primarily targeting vulnerable populations; he said. Mr. Kilele made the remarks recently from chronic abuse of alcohol. A drug is any chemical substance The Breast Cancer prints are likely to be watered down since the production section of the nation’s in a speech read on his behalf by assist- “The liver is damaged because it is which when taken into the body will Awareness Walk was work force has become too intoxicated ance Provincial Commissioner, Western, first organ of the body that alcohol pass- modify or alter the way body functions flagged of at Aga Khan to undertake any meaningful work. Mr. Mr. Charles Igiha at a Bungoma hotel es through once absorbed in the blood from its normal state or from the abnor- Hospital with the proces- Kilele laments that although over 90 per during a two day seminar on alcohol and stream and also one that metabolizes the mal to normal state. sion ending at the Aga cent of people in Western province know drug abuse for journalists and media prac- alcohol poison,” he said. And drug abuse is the non-medical Khan Club in Mombasa. about the dangers of alcohol and drug titioners based in western region. On tobacco, Dr. Gakunju said that use of drugs such as alcohol and affects abuse, the substance abuse is rampant in In his speech, the PC reiterates that there is no safe tobacco whether chewed, productive life of an individual. The Read The Link monthly for news affecting communities LinkEnhancing governance for all across Kenya The Link, November 2011 KARI releases wheat varieties resistant to stem rust By MALACHI MOTANO former wheat farmer. “I planted corn in my five-acre HE Kenya Agricultural Re- farm, where I had for many years been search Institute (KARI) has growing wheat, but I am optimistic Tdeveloped two new wheat vari- that the new varieties will save me eties resistant to the deadly wheat rust money which I spent on fungicides, disease. and I am ready to plant when seeds The deadly mutant fungus, Ug99, are available,” he said. named after their discovery in Ugan- da in 1999, is spread by wind-borne Seed multiplication spores. By 2003, most of Kenya’s KARI is working with the Kenya wheat varieties had been identified as Seeds Company to multiply the seeds. susceptible to the fungus which caus- “We are expecting to have produced es infected plants to produce fewer more than 10 tons of the new seed seeds or die. variety by the end of this year,” said The two new wheat varieties, KARI director Ephram Mukisira. dubbed Eagle10 and Robin, were KARI has set aside 12 hectares in developed by KARI after years of re- Njoro exclusively for wheat breeding. search. “I urge farmers to go back to Though not nearly as widely wheat farming knowing that the new grown as maize or rice, wheat never- varieties have a much lower cost of theless is an important component of production.” the country’s domestic food produc- Farmers have been abandoning tion - being grown on about 4 percent wheat farming over the last few years of the country’s arable land (160,000 due to losses caused by Ug99. Pro- hectares out of 4,000,000 hectares of duction costs went up by 40 percent arable land), according Peter Njau, a between 2001 and 2011 with farmers plant breeder at KARI. this year having to spray wheat with Since 2005, KARI has screened KARI has developed two new wheat varieties resistant to the deadly wheat rust disease. pesticides three times a season at a over 200,000 wheat germplasms, of Photo/Malachi Motano cost of Kshs9,000 (US$90) per acre. which only 10 percent were found to Kenya imports about 60 percent have some resistance to Ug99. Of the lines, checking if they would be suit- by scientists at KARI to be resistant to Uncontrolled, wheat rust, which of its wheat needs, according to the 10 percent, only a handful could adapt able for commercial production in both Ug99 and yellow rust, only time requires intensive chemical control, Ministry of Agriculture. Population to the Kenyan environment, according Kenya. Those which looked like a will tell if they will offer satisfaction may account for yield losses of 50-70 growth and a decrease in domes- to KARI plant breeder Peter Njau. good bet were then developed further to Kenyan wheat farmers. percent. The high cost of chemicals tic production, with some farmers The selected varieties then under- for the Kenyan farmer. KARI in Njoro is one of only a is a barrier to wheat farming for most switching to maize, to some extent went advanced trials in wheat growing “That was how Eagle10 and Robin handful of screening centres for stem smallholders. explains this figure. areas and at the Kenya Plant Health wheat varieties were born,” explained rust resistance around the world. Farmers who attended a field day At present, KARI is screening an- Inspectorate Services (KEPHIS). Njau at the KARI centre in Njoro, Rift Eagle10 was selected for lower at KARI expressed optimism about other 27,000 wheat lines with a view “The first step of screening in- Valley. “Both varieties have very good altitude regions such as lower Narok, the new wheat breeds. “That disease to finding better yielding lines which volved identifying some wheat germ- baking and bread-making qualities.” Naivasha and Laikipia in Rift Valley, [Ug99] was a disaster to wheat farm- will be released directly as varieties. plasm which were resistant,” he ex- while Robin is for the medium to high ing; it turned out that I would not make Nineteen varieties, screened ear- plained. Only time will tell altitude areas like Njoro, Mau Narok any profit having spent too much on lier at KARI in Njoro, have already Then, the experts evaluated these Though the new varieties were found and Timau. fungicides,” said Peter Thiongo, a been released to eight countries. Farmer scores big by thinking out of the box By BRIGHTON KAZUNGU claims the yield would have been higher in arid regions have been scientifically and beans need steady rainfall. Why The seeds given by the ministry are had preying birds not invaded his farm tested and approved by relevant Gov- take the risk when we have crops that part of a programme that compels farm- MR. MWASINGU Mcharo is a reju- in their thousands. ernments. The Ministry of Agriculture aren’t held hostage by the elements?” ers to surrender back to the ministry venated man. He has become a beacon “The birds were so many that I had has been aggressively educating farm- says Ms. Wanjiku. She says the district twice the quantity of seeds they harvest. of hope to farmers in Mwachabo loca- to hire boys to scare them away until I ers on the benefits of adopting tradition- has not experienced a decent harvest in The seeds are later issued to others tion, Mwatate District, in Taita Taveta harvested. But I am grateful for what I al crops, such as sorghum, millet, green more than four years. who plant and also return them to the County. got. I have sold a lot of sorghum and grams and cowpeas that usually flourish Farms have turned into dry patches ministry. The revolving seed fund is The relatively green plantation in have some left for my family,” he says. in dry weather conditions. dotted by withering stalks of maize as meant to have as many farmers as pos- his farm is a far cry from dry fields that The farmer says that he has settled The Mwatate District Agricultural the only evidence that farming once sible access the resources. are a dominant feature in the area. for sorghum after successive seasons of Officer, Ms. Irene Wanjiku, says the thrived in the region. As water pans are “The seeds cannot be enough for Mcharo has abandoned traditional total crop failure due to the unpredict- only guarantee to food security, sustain- rapidly drying up, putting lives of cattle all farmers at the initial stages, hence crops such as maize and beans and set able weather patterns. He was tired of ability and self-reliance was through and owners in peril. The sporadic rain- a condition that beneficiaries surrender up sorghum plantation which has pro- planting maize that realized low returns adoption of drought resistant crops. fall has been too little for any positive back what was given to them with an duced prolific results and increased his because of inadequate rainfall but was “The seeds given to farmers are cer- effect on farm production, thus compli- extra and equal amount from their har- earnings. encouraged by curiosity on traditional tified and of high quality. Mr. Mcharo cating the delicate food situation. vest. That way, we have enough seed Mr. Mcharo’s 24 acre piece of land crops the ministry of agriculture has al- is a living example that bumper har- It is in the light of the monumental stock to give to all the farmers,” Ms. is adorned with Gaddam, a variety of ways been popularizing. vest is a reality even in dry areas and challenges in the struggle to ensure food Wanjiku says. Sorghum that does so well in arid re- “I am glad I listened to the agricul- we’re encouraging everybody to adopt security that the campaign for adop- Mr. Mcharo’s achievement has vin- gions besides being in high demand in tural officials,” he says. Mr. Mcharo’s alternative crops,” says the officer. tion of traditional crops was launched. dicated the ministry’s determination to the brewing industry as its flour is con- success story has been presented as an She attributes the slow uptake to long “We’ll continue urging residents to em- introduce sorghum farming. It has also sidered to have high nutritional value. example of how technology can be ap- traditions of planting maize and beans brace the production of traditional or- reinforced the ministry’s commitment In a single season, he has been able plied to heal a culture of crop failure. that are prone to erratic weather pat- phaned crops as part of efforts to stave to have farmers spare a thought for to harvest 85 bags of the cereal and The traditional seeds intended for use terns common in the district. “Maize off hunger,” says Ms. Wanjiku. other crops to forestall food insecurity.

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The Link, November 2011 14 SPECIAL REPORT New law seals loopholes in electoral process

CONTINUED FROM from engaging in activities OCTOBER ISSUE that later become subject In this second part of our continuing matter of election petition. LECTION petitions The new legislation makes review of the electoral laws in Ken- have in the past it illegal to engage in vote ya, our Sub-Editor FAITH MUIRURI exposed the defi- buying and in exceptionally cient nature of the high campaign expenditure. brings you an incisive analysis of the Ejudiciary in resolving politi- The Act also provides that cal disputes. In ordinate de- an election can be postponed provisions for petitions, postponement lays blamed on widespread in case: of lections and submission of party corruption and entrenched (a) there is reason to believe systems of patronage have that a serious breach of peace membership lists among others. essentially marred the hear- is likely to occur if the elec- ing of election petitions and tion is held on that date; or The new law makes voter IEBC a party membership party. completely eroded public (b) it is impossible to con- education a continuous proc- list at least three months be- The IEBC has powers to su- confidence. Aggrieved -par duct the elections as a result ess and directs IEBC to pre- fore the nomination of the pervise elections for members ties have therefore opted for of a natural disaster or other pare a voter education cur- candidate. of parliament, senate and county other remedial measures as emergencies, riculum. The party lists are to in- representatives and must ensure witnessed during the 2007 The powers to postpone form among other things the political parties participating in General Elections which saw the elections have been Submission of party mem- basis of proportional repre- the general election nominates the country plunge into civil vested on the Independ- bership lists sentation in terms of gender. and submits a list of all the per- anarchy following a disputed ent Electoral and Boundary The constitution (Article sons who would stand elected if Presidential poll. 90 (2)(c)) stipulates that ex- the party won respective seats. The petitions have in fact cept in the case of County The Act sets out basic proce- predominantly revolved assembly seats, each party dures in the settlement of dis- around the issue of whether “There is reason to believe list must reflect the regional putes arising from party nomi- or not the respondents were that a serious breach of and ethnic diversity of the nations which are to be handled properly served and purely country. by IEBC but excludes election dealt on the procedural ques- peace is likely to occur if While supporters of a petitions and other disputes that tion of service instead of presidential candidate must may arise after the declaration of the substance of respective the election is held on that be registered members of the election results. cases. The cases have taken candidate‘s political party, a litigation route rather than date.” independent candidates have Election Petitions serving as a potential av- been exempted from the pro- County election petitions enue to indict the electoral Commission (IEBC),which The new electoral law makes vision and their supporters The new law provides that any process. This is despite the may appoint another date for it mandatory for political par- do not have to be registered cases challenging elections at the importance attached to the the holding of the postponed ties sponsoring candidates in members of any political County level are to be heard and process. election. the election to submit to the And although the recent handling of petition cases has helped to reinforce the independence of the judi- ciary as well as strengthen democratic ideals, the Con- stitution (Article 87 (3) has introduced a relatively new concept in serving of peti- tions and directs that now petitions may be served di- rectly or by advertisement in a newspaper with national circulation. Further, the newly enacted Elections Act has introduced a ceiling within which elec- tion petitions must be re- solved. The Act provides that petitions must be heard and determined within six months by the High Court. The Act also imposes se- vere penalties for breach of the electoral law and com- mission of electoral offenses during the campaign and vot- ing period to deter candidates President Kibaki ready to signs the new constitution into law after the successful referadum. Photo/File

The Link, November 2011 SPECIAL REPORT 19 New law seals loopholes in electoral process determined by the respective High Court within six months. The new law stipulates that aggrieved parties must file their petitions in the High Court within twenty eight days after the results are published in the Gazette; The law provides that an elec- tion court can direct the Com- mission to issue a certificate of election to a President, a mem- ber of Parliament or a member of county assembly if— (a) upon recount of the ballots cast, the winner is apparent; and (b) that winner is found not to have committed an election of- fence.

Scrutiny of votes The new law provides guide- lines that may be followed in the scrutiny of votes during the hearing of a petition. The law mandates an election court to determine the mode of scrutiny during the exercise. The votes in dispute can only be struck off in case – (a) the name of a voter is missing on the register or list of voters assigned to the polling station at which the vote was recorded or who had not been authorized to vote at that station; A voter casting his vote during the referandum. Photo/File (b) votes were cast after an in-

twenty eight days after the The Act (Section 88(1)) ration of results “The law mandates an declaration of the election re- outlines that the conduct, The Independent Electoral sults by the IEBC. result and validity of a ref- Boundary Commission has election court to determine An election court has erendum can be challenged been vested with powers to been mandated to determine through a petition to the High announce the results of an the mode of scrutiny during the validity of any question Court. election seven days after raised in the petition. The The petition challenging close of polling. Further, sec- the exercise.” court then submits its ver- the conduct, result or validity tion 36 (3) of the new legisla- dict in writing to the Com- ducement such as bribery, treat- The law further directs mission and the relevant ing or undue influence; that elections cannot be de- Speaker indicating whether “An election court (c) the vote of a person guilty of clared void merely by rea- an election offence has been impersonation at the election; son of non-compliance with committed. has been mandated to (d) the vote of a person proved any written law as long as it The law mandates the to have voted in more than one is conducted in accordance speaker to publish a report determine the validity of constituency; with the principles outlined under this section in the Ga- any question raised in the (e) the vote of a person, who in the Constitution. zette. The Commission can by reason of conviction for an consider the report and de- petition.” election offence or other rea- Determination of election lete from the voters register sons was disqualified from vot- petitions the name of a person who is of a referendum must — tion empowers the commis- ing at the election; or An election petition under disqualified from being - reg (a) set out the facts relied on sion to determine the order (f) the vote has been cast in fa- this Act is to be heard and istered. to invalidate the referendum; and manner in which the re- vour of a candidate who has determined within the period (b) identify the specific mat- sults of an election are to de- been disqualified or the facts specified in the Constitution. Referendum Petitions ter or matters on which the clared. causing the disqualification, or The constitution (Article 87 The new provides that proce- petitioner relies on to justify Under the new law the after sufficient public notice of (2)) outlines that all petitions, dures in an election petition the grant of relief. Commission can only hear the disqualification or when the excluding presidential elec- are to apply in a referendum disputes arising from party facts causing it were notorious. tions, are to be filed within petition. Determination and decla- nominations.