The Official Magazine of Government 2020 Edition. January 1 2020 - December 31, 2020 Kisii insight Explore Invest Prosper

Kisii County dream and HEALTH the shared Bringing top medical care services and facilities closer home prosperity AGRICULTURE Banking on value addition for prosperity and food security

Seven years of DEVOLVED transformative SUCCESS Powering Kisii leadership County to greater heights through a 24-hour economy

Editor’s Note he idea behind the Kisii Insight, our official county publication, is to create a forum for communication and engagement especially on THE TEAM Tdevelopment related issues in the county. Publisher Kisii County Government, The publication, so massively resourced PO Box 4550 - 40200, Kisii, comes at a time when the country is set to celebrate the first decade since the [email protected] promulgation of the Kenya Constitution

Editor 2010, that birthed devolution in Kenya. Jeff Akunga Through this publication, residents of

revise Editor Kisii, whether at home or abroad, will be Fred Aminga able to follow progress made in the implementation of development agenda by the county government. Essentially, it is the progress content Editor Eric Ongeri report for programmes and development projects initiated since 2013. In this first edition of the Kisii Insight, we have highlighted and photo Editor John Mogaka exhibited several complete and ongoing projects from 2013 to date, during which time His Excellency Governor James Ongwae has been Managing Editor Isaac Ongiri in office. Through this, the development projects initiated since devolution art editor Michael Mosota was anchored in Kenya are appreciated and awareness created Writers especially to the larger population, that may not be well informed Periz Moturi, Henry Ogembo, Christopher Koroba, about what is happening in parts of the county, and more so in the Erick Ondimu, Jared Maobe, Jesca Bange, Joshua Araka sub-counties. All government departments have reported on progress of Photographers Christopher Koroba programme implementation within their dockets and we have allowed Anthony Mokaya and Joshua Araka a public feedback mechanism, where the people have also expressed views on what they think about the general implementation of county projects, since devolved resources started trickling down. Kisii County / GVN045jamesongwae We have made a copy of the same available for online consumers through the county website on www.kisii.go.ke. @KisiiCountyGov / @jamesongwae Happy New Year 2020.

@Kisii County Managing Editor

kisiicountygovernment Isaac Victor Ongiri

Kisii County Kisii Kisii County Advisory Team insight Editorial Team

The Official Magazine of Kisii County Jeff Akunga Eric Ongeri Periz Moturi John Mogaka EricGovernment Ondimu

2020 Edition Patrick Dr. Onchari Stephen Magdalene Kennedy January 1 2020 Lumumba Kenani Nyarangi Mwebi Osembe - December 31, County Secretary Economic Advisor Political Advisor Advisor Gender County Attorney 2020 and Head of Public and Social services Henry Anthony Christopher Service Jared Maobe Jesca Bange Ogembo Mokaya Koroba

KISII INSIGHT All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without prior written permission of the publisher.1 Permission is only deemed valid if approval is in writing. 1 | Editor’s note 3 | Kisii County at a glance 5 | Governor’s remarks | Kisii County in ‘5’ Minutes

contents 7 8 | Deputy Governor’s remarks 22 9 | Quotes from National Leaders 11 | The Senator’s viewpoint 12 | County Woman Representative 13 | Members of the National Assembly 14 | The Speaker’s views Statement from The County Clerk 15 | County Assembly Leadership Statement from the Leader of Majority Statement from the Leader of Minority 16 | Kisii County Assembly 17 | Members of Kisii County Assembly 19 | Know your Cabinet 20 | County Chief Officers 21 | Head of Directorates 22 | Health Sector 33 | Department of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives Development 68 49 | Department of Education, Labour and Manpower Development 55 | Department of Administration, Corporate Services and Stakeholder Management 57 | Department of Trade and Industry 61 | Department of Energy, Water, Environment and Natural Resources 67 | Culture / Sports / Youth and Social Services 69 | Department of Lands, Physical Planning and Urban Development 72 | Department of Roads, Public Works and Transport Kisii insight 76 | Q and A 77 | Donor Engagement and Diplomacy 78 | Top 10 Projects since 2013 80 | Vox pop-residents’ view 74 82 | Pictorials The Official 84 | Public Service Board Magazine of 85 | Office of the County Secretary Kisii County | County Security - County Commissioner Government 86 88 | Department of Finance and Economic Planning 2020 Edition. January 1 2020 90 | Pictorials - December 31, 2020 92 | Office of the First Lady 93 | Gallant Sons and Daughters of Gusii 90 2 T A GLA NCE Y A KI S II CO U NT

Welcome to Kisii County, Kisii the Land of Matoke! insight ently undulating slopes roll out The county is teeming with a highly- County to the South and and onto ridges above, gracing the skilled labour force essential for Migori counties to the West. blue skies yonder, replete the economic growth besides harbouring It covers an area of 1,302 square greenery on the well cultivated opportunities for various investment kilometres and politically, the county is The Official G Magazine of hills, full of life with people and domestic opportunities. organised into nine constituencies and animals completing a scenic sight to Residents largely lead a settled life on 45 electoral wards. Kisii County behold. Welcome to Kisii County, the a small-holder land ownership system The county’s administrative seat is Government home of bananas and soapstone. that has culminated in massive land domiciled in Kisii Town, which in itself is a With an estimated population in excess demarcation, so much so that Kisii County beehive of activity and a commercial hub of 1.2 million and a population density is essentially one large urban dwelling, characterised by busy streets, human and 2020 Edition of over 1,000 inhabitants per square at least according to the United Nations vehicle traffic and an upsurge of modern January 1 2020 kilometre -- one of the highest in Kenya definition of urban areas. high-rise commercial and residential - December 31, -- Kisii County forms a ready market not As one of the 47 counties in Kenya, buildings which are slowly replacing the 2020 only for finished products but also experts Kisii County shares common borders with colonial era shops. in the service industry. County to the North East, To underline the economic importance 3 T A GLA NCE Y A KI S II CO U NT

Kisii County Governor James Ongwae addressing residents. Kisii town’s recent upgrading into Municipality status is expected to give it the latitude to grow in leaps and bounds

of the town, 23 commercial banks, and assorted vegetables. Eye-catching granite rock formations 16 insurance firms of repute and 14 Livestock farming also prevails in Kisii, are also to be found at Bogiakumu area in Universities have made Kisii town their albeit in small holdings, and intensive the outskirts of Kisii town. home. zero-grazing set-ups where the county Along River Gucha, one finds solace in Indeed, the immense business government is supporting farmers in the 20 feet high Nyakwana waterfalls as opportunity in Kisii town cannot be offering subsidised Artificial Insemination the river meanders at Nyambunde, a few over-emphasised and statistics from the (A.I) and extension services. kilometres from Kisii town. Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) indicate The varied farm produce which is Above all, in order to realise the vision that Kisii controls up to 60 per cent of harvested throughout the year readily gets of transforming Kisii County into a middle- the money market in the South Nyanza markets both locally and internationally. income economy, the county government region. Perhaps, one cannot narrate the Kisii under the leadership of Governor James Indeed, CBK is already in the process story without citing the “soapstone’’ Ongwae is keen on tapping into the of establishing a money clearing house in phenomenon also known as the “white” prevailing rich agricultural potential to Kisii town before opening a full-fledged gold, a rare rock that has been mined at grow the sector through value addition by branch to serve the region. Tabaka area since the 1800s. venturing into agro-processing. Kisii town’s recent upgrading into The rock has unique qualities which Tea, coffee, pyrethrum are the major Municipality status is expected to give it can be manipulated to make a variety of cash crops grown by small-scale farmers the latitude to grow in leaps and bounds. artwork for ornamental and aesthetic in Kisii County. Situated about 290 kilometres west figurines popular with tourists such as Instructively, Kisii coffee is of the of the region is considered a curios. highlands variety whose processed dust vital gateway to the traditional Western Soapstone carvings from Kisii are sold has an aroma touted to have an attractive tourism circuit due to its proximity to locally and internationally. Large-scale scent that rises to high heavens. Kisii tourist attraction sites such as Ruma sculptures from Kisii adorn major world The county is engaging small-scale insight National Park in , the capitals such as the artist impression farmers through the Gusii Farmers’ Co- Impala sanctuary and the Maasai of the “dancing birds’” sculpture at the operative Society to help promote coffee Mara National Reserve. United Nations Educational, Scientific crop production and marketing. It is imperative to note that Kisii County and Cultural Organization (Unesco) Already, the county government has has been tested and proven as an oasis headquarters in Paris and the UN attracted funding from the European of peace and tranquility, and is home to a headquarters in New York City. Union to facilitate improvement in the highly hospitable and cohesive people. The Kisii County government has Banana value chain culminating in the The Official The trajectory that Kisii has taken already attracted massive investment building of a banana processing factory Magazine of on matters development owes to its in the soapstone industry where value among other ventures such as Kisii Kisii County characteristic, being a convergence point addition and mechanisation in the venture Avocado Processing Factory, which is also of cultures and religions, drawing people is being established to give residents under construction. Government from diverse origins to form a vibrant maximum benefit from the rare natural Devolution is now entrenched in Kisii business community. endowment. County and deepened by an elaborate Visitors often cite Kisii as God’s own In the Kisii countryside, visitors institutional framework. 2020 Edition. bathroom based on the high rainfall the also have the benefit of encountering Indeed, we are on flight mode towards January 1 2020 - December 31, region enjoys all year round. grotesque traditional African rock prosperity for our residents and the 2020 The resultant temperate atmosphere formations at Sameta and Gotichaki hills, country at large. supports the cultivation of cash crops reminiscent of the ones found on the Welcome to Kisii County; like coffee, tea, sugarcane and food crop Atlas Mountains of North and in the Explore, invest, prosper! varieties such as bananas, maize, beans pyramids of . 4 County on R E MARK S S the brink of

reaping the O V E R NO R’ devolution G dividends hen the Kisii County electorates gave me the mandate to be at the helm as Governor in the nascent Wdays of devolution in 2013, it proved a challenge. There was no system in place to guide our operations as an inaugural devolved unit. In the first term we were able to undertake a number of quick win initiatives, serving as the foundation for the fruition of future undertakings, and satisfying immediate electorate needs. Perhaps that is why in 2017, the electorate reaffirmed their confidence and accorded me a second term in office as Governor. Kisii County has been on a progressive journey through devolution. Firstly, we have heavily invested in healthcare services to ensure the development of a healthy population for higher productivity. My government is building a robust medical infrastructure at the Kisii My government Teaching and Referral Hospital (KTRH), turning the hospital around to be among is building a the best in Kenya today. robust medical Kisii The reason for this investment is to give residents easy access to the best insight and cost-affordable specialised treatment. infrastructure at the We have set up a new 250-bed capacity ward, increasing the in-patient Kisii Teaching and capacity at the hospital to 700. The ongoing construction of a 200-bed capacity Referral Hospital MCH (Mother and Child Health) wing will increase the overall bed capacity at (KTRH), turning the KTRH to 900. hospital around to The county now has a mortuary with the capacity to preserve 100 bodies be among the best The Official coupled with anatomy and histology laboratories forming the basis of Magazine of collaboration with Kisii University to establish a medical training school at in Kenya today. Kisii County KTRH. Government An operational 64 Slice Computed Tomography (CT Scan) and a 16 Slice CT Scan has been installed at the KTRH for specialised scans and a reliable X-Ray Unit with state-of-the-art machines including mammograms, a Magnetic 2020 Edition Resonance Imaging (MRI), and Kidney dialysis equipment among others. January 1 2020 - December 31, Our theatres, High Dependency and Intensive Care Units are accessible at 2020 affordable rates. The infrastructure at the KTRH has been revamped with a 5 delivery rate of up to 100,000 litres of clean water per have so far hired 206 instructors from various trades day to ensure sufficient supply in the entire facility, for as tutors to train our youth in various vocational all uses. training centres in the county. This Financial Year, we Additionally, we have conceptualised a Sh2.1 billion have distributed Sh52 million as tuition fee for our cancer diagnostic treatment centre to be constructed trainees in vocational training centres. at KTRH. We recruited 900 Early Childhood Development The project is funded by the Saudi Fund for Education (ECDE) teachers and built classrooms Development (SFD) and the Arab Bank for Economic across the county. We are partnering with the Aga Development in Africa (BADEA) in concert with Khan Foundation to build capacity in Early Years Government of Kenya. Focus is also on expansion and Education teachers to improve quality. refurbishment of all the other public health facilities As our fifth priority, the provision of safe and in the entire county to ease pressure on KTRH. potable water is at an advanced stage. We have a A number of sub-county health facilities are having number of water schemes being developed. Above O V E R NO R’ S MARK

G a major infrastructural facelift and adequate human all, we have procured a rig to help sub-counties drill resource staffing. boreholes affordably. Already, patients are receiving specialist and theatre We have prioritised culture, sports and social services at Gesusu, Gucha, Keumbu and Nyamache services as our sixth pillar. To promote youth talent, sub-county hospitals. While an infrastructural we have given Gusii Stadium a major facelift to make upgrade at Marani Sub County Hospital is also it meet set standards. In the first phase of the Gusii progressing well as we focus at both the KTRH and Stadium upgrade, the county government erected a sub-counties, our staff are on notice to ensure they perimeter fence around the stadium, revamped the are diligently dedicated in giving quality service to the VIP pavilion and two bleachers. The stadium now has public. an underground drainage and irrigation system giving Secondly, agriculture being a key enabler of our it an evergreen Kikuyu grass tuft. economy, we are leveraging it to create employment, Our seventh priority is the trade and industry sector wealth and ensure food security by adopting where, we have fast-tracked our efforts to establish a technology and strengthening the key value chains. soapstone value addition factory at Tabaka. A banana-processing factory has been established Already, a feasibility study conducted by the Ministry in the county with a Sh110 million grant from the of Petroleum and Mining has indicated viability of the European Union to support the banana value chain. project, and soon investors will set base in the area. The county gave Sh45 million for this project. Besides, my government has joined hands with 13 In Kisii, tea is a major cash crop for small-scale other counties within the region to form an economic farmers. bloc –the Lake Region Economic Bloc (LREB). Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) wanted to This will facilitate sustainable economic growth by set up Sombogo Tea Factory in Kitutu Chache North taking advantage of the obtaining economies of scale in 2005 and the onus was on farmers to raise an initial to boost trade. commitment premium of Sh30 million. Kisii is heading the health pillar in the LREB and we Farmers failed to raise the funds and for over are positioning the county as a premier destination for 10 years the project stalled until the Kisii County medical tourism. government intervened and paid the Sh30 million on To empower the county residents through wealth behalf of the farmers and the factory has now been creation, we have relentlessly packaged the county as built. an investment destination and already investors are The avocado processing factory is also on course venturing into value addition in various sectors such and we have secured an investor to help us add value as the avocado and banana, sugar processing, and on avocado fruits to enable farmers reap maximum soapstone industries among others. Kisii profits. Already, we have made Kisii town a 24-hour insight Our plan to unveil a sugar processing factory in business hub replete with an efficient solar and South Mugirango is on, consultations with various electricity lights under the urban development and stakeholders including national agencies is currently planning pillar. ongoing and soon we are ground breaking after the The Kisii Municipality is now in place and we have necessary approvals from the County Assembly. built a modern fire station and emergency response To improve access for our farm produce, the centre having procured modern fire engines. The Official county has opened a number of roads, being our Therefore, we have realised the devolution Magazine of third priority, making them accessible in all weather dream in Kisii County, having made it an ultimate Kisii County conditions through murraming and compacting. investment destination and a key commercial hub in Government Before devolution, we had a coverage of the Lake region. We are proud of these seven years of 1,133 kilometres of road network in Kisii but my devolution as we celebrate the first decade under the administration has increased this to 3,157 kilometres. Kenya Constitution 2010. 2020 Edition. January 1 2020 Our fourth priority is the education sector. To help Karibuni. - December 31, needy students access education uninterrupted, we Hon. James Elvis Omariba Ongwae, 2020 have disbursed over Sh650 million in bursaries since 2013. CBS, E.B.S, OGW. Governor, Kisii County 6 To improve learning in our vocational centres, we Kisii County in brief Kisii is one of the 47 counties in Kenya, located in the former . Its neighbours include Nyamira, Homa Bay, Migori and Narok. It is largely an agricultural county. Major cash crops include tea and coffee. It is well known for bananas, especially the sweet variety (kisukari), and small-scale dairy farming. Other crops include sugarcane, maize, beans. Kisii is blessed with a favourable climate throughout the year. It receives reliable rainfall. This is why its agriculture is rain-fed. i n u tes ‘5’M i n y o u nt Source: Kenya National Bureau of Statistics 1.26 million C K i s ii

Population Potential

It is one of the most densely regions in The influx of people from various parts Kenya, with an average of 1,000 people 1 of the country is unlocking the potential living per square kilometre. Many of the of the town. This is evident through the residents are Abagusii, the indigenous kind of modern buildings coming up in people. However, other communities such Kisii Town. as Kikuyu, Kalenjin, Nubian, Hindu, Luo Unlike before devolution, there is now and Luhyia live in the county. The county 2 a huge vehicle and human traffic in the is known for peace throughout the year. Its town. This speaks volumes about the people are industrious and hospitable. town’s potential. The huge population offers ready market 3 for farm produce and ready labour to fuel economic growth. Banks Administration

4 The county is headquartered in Kisii 24 5 Town. The town also Kisii town is host to 24 branches of acts as the national commercial banks, 16 insurance administrative firms and 14 universities. Kisii headquarter. University is located about 1.2km from the town centre. Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) is 9 opening a money clearing house and the works are at an advanced 6 8 Kisii stage. It is likely to start operating in the course of 2020. insight 7 Industries Hospital

The county has potential in At the hip of Kisii town is the Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital (KTRH) and several sugarcane, banana and avocado privately-owned health facilities in the town. value addition. In Tabaka, South The Official Mugirango Constituency, there is a Magazine of rare resource, soapstone. Kisii County Constituency Boundary with existing Wards Kisii County The stone is used to carve various 1. Kitutu Chache North 4. Nyaribari Chache 7. Bomachoge Borabu Government artefacts which are sold locally and abroad. The rock has been exploited 2. Kitutu Chache South 5. Bomachoge Chache 8. Bobasi since the 1880s but it has not 3. Bochari 6. South Mugirango 9. Nyaribari Masaba offered maximum benefits to the 2020 Edition local people. January 1 2020 - December 31, Apart from soapstone, there 9 Constituencies 2020 are unique rocks at Sameta and Gotichaki areas. The rocks have unique features 45 Wards 7 Devolution is the best system for public O V E R NO R’ S MARK

Y G service delivery hen the Governor and I took over the mantle of leadership in Kisii County in 2013, we earnestly sought to put structures in D E PU T Wplace, and to promote a good system of governance. As pioneer leaders of the County Government, we were cognisant of our obligation to maintain the highest standards of service delivery and therefore crafted innovative ways to attract investment to help us realise the aspirations of residents. For the last six years, we have achieved tangible deliverables in terms of county projects in all sectors under devolved government units including health, education, agriculture and water services. We have also attracted investors to help the county deliver on mega projects, especially, in areas with constrained resources. This has improved various sectors including banana, sugarcane and avocado. Citizen engagement is now a reality and as county government, we are able to timely get public views and feedback to help us serve the residents of the county in a satisfactory manner. Indeed, devolved governance has proved to be the surest way in bringing services and resources closer to the people. I would like to assure the residents of this great county that we are firmly committed For the last six years, we have to delivering on our mandate achieved tangible deliverables in during our second term in office. terms of county projects in all sectors But to do this, we need the support of all stakeholders. I under devolved government including urge that we exercise patriotism health, education, agriculture and with dedication and work water services. towards the betterment of our Kisii beloved county for present and insight future generations. I call upon the county staff to strive to discharge their duties with honesty, diligence and accountability to our employer – the public. Let me take this opportunity to thank the County Assembly and the leadership of Kisii County for the spirit of teamwork and dedication, which has been key in the realisation of the development programmes we have so far registered. God bless Kisii County. The Official Magazine of H.E Hon Joash Maangi, MBS, Kisii County Deputy Governor, Kisii County Government

2020 Edition. January 1 2020 - December 31, 2020

8 l e ad r s t i on al the Na the o m

Her Excellency Margaret Rt. Hon. Raila Kenyatta Odinga, EGH otes f r Q u otes

H.E. ,CGH I am encouraged and deeply By and large, devolution reassured by the investment Kisii is changing our country in County government has made in ways few imagined…People prioritising women and children by are taking control of their I have visited Kisii and held functions at the dedicating a fully-fledged Mother destiny. Devolution has come Gusii Stadium before but let me say that today and Child Hospital, the 200 bed with a new boss – the people. I walked into an entirely transformed facility. capacity MCH wing being put up at Development is what the Let me appreciate the efforts by the county the KTRH will greatly improve the people say it should be.” government in refurbishing the stadium making health of mothers and children” ODM Party Leader it one of the safe spaces for youth recreation First Lady of the Republic of and talent nurturing” Kenya President and the Commander in Chief of the Defence Forces of Kenya

Kisii insight

DR. Fred Matiang’i joe Mucheru

The Official Magazine of I always traverse the country in the course Let me hail the Kisii County government Counties should work of duty and comparatively I rate Kisii County for realising a number of development closely with the national Kisii County government as among the best in terms of projects in the county and as minister for government in public Government projects and service delivery. I normally interact Devolution, I can say that the county is on service. I hail Kisii County with Governor Ongwae and I can confirm that the right track in terms of service delivery government for maintaining he has the interests of Kisii County residents at the grassroots. For example, the banana cordial relations with 2020 Edition at heart and he always offer proposals for the factory project we launched in Kisii will the national government January 1 2020 benefit of the people.” create employment and spur local economic agencies.” - December 31, Cabinet Secretary, Interior & Co- development not only for the county but Cabinet Secretary, ICT 2020 ordination of National government and also the country in general.” head of the Presidential Delivery Unit Cabinet Secretary, Devolution and ASAL 9 l e ad r s t i on al

the Na the JOhn Munyes H.E o m The Big Four agenda includes affordable We have some investors who have Having conducted a tour of Kisii and accessible health services to all and expressed interest in the soapstone Teaching and Referral Hospital, I the construction of the 250-bed capacity industry. Regrettably, Kisii has lost can confidently say that devolution hospital wards at KTRH, the hospital a substantial amount of money from is really working and with the hostel for visiting doctors, and other soapstone through the incidence of remarkable infrastructural facilities at the hospital, goes a long way exploitation by middlemen. There is development, Kisii County is headed in ameliorating the president’s efforts in need to add value to this rare product in the right direction to actualise promoting health services in the country. to ensure profits for dealers in the value satisfactory health service delivery otes f r Q u otes I congratulate Governor James Ongwae chain. I commend the Kisii County as envisaged in the health pillar as on the stance Kisii County government government for initiating this process an item both in the Lake Region has taken in improving infrastructure aimed at establishing a factory for Economic Bloc and the Big Four and expansion of the scope of services soapstone value addition,” agenda,” offered in public health facilities in the Cabinet Secretary, GOVERNOR COUNTY AND county,” PETROLEUM AND MINING CHAIRMAN C.O.G. and LREB CABINET SECRETARY, WATER AND SANITATION

Kisii insight

H.E PROF ANYANG NYONG’O H.E.John Nyagarama H.E DR WILBUR Ottichillo

The Official Magazine of The tremendous infrastructure Whatever happens in Kisii goes for Nyamira and the elevation of I appreciate the good work Kisii County development we have witnessed at the Kisii Teaching the Kisii Teaching and Referral done by my colleague Governor Government and Referral Hospital is a clear Hospital has gone a long way in Ongwae, especially in his demonstration that devolution making health services available transformative agenda of The is working for Kenya,” to residents in the region,” Kisii Referral Hospital and 2020 Edition. GOVERNOR, KISUMU Governor Nyamira lighting of the town to enhance January 1 2020 a 24-hour economy,” - December 31, Governor 2020

10 Devolution is

empowering V i ew p o nt ’s

citizens in r to governance through public participation S en a T he evolution has brought about a new dawn in the government structure and resource management in Kenya. The new dispensation has promoted democratic and accountable exercise of power, Dfostering national unity while recognising diversity. The devolved system of government recognises the right of communities to manage their own affairs as regards development. Kisii County is strategically located with easy access and a developed communication infrastructure. The county’s municipality has become the commercial and financial hub of the entire southwestern Kenya. With liberalisation and creation of the Lake Region Economic Bloc, Kisii is poised to develop strong networks in the whole of the region markets and onto northern reaches of the neighbouring . However, this great county has been characterised by diminishing arable land which poses a threat to the lives of the people. There is need for urgent transformation of our people’s way of living to discard traditional methods of agriculture and embrace technology to help improve smallholder productivity through value addition, intensive farming and horticulture. Kisii County government has entrenched devolution and the gains are evident.The community enjoys public participation in decision making and improved access to resources at the grassroots where organs of government have been devolved. Senate as constitutionally mandated, is committed to guarantee the success of devolution, by ensuring that county governments are adequately funded and oversighted. Funds allocated to county governments from the national shareable revenue has increased over the past six years from Sh210 billion in 2013 to Sh316 billion currently. Notably, the revenue Kisii County, has since received has been utilised properly through key achievements including transformation at Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital, Gusii Stadium and the overall outlook of Kisii town. Kisii The Senate shall continue to be the guardian angel of devolution in protecting the counties, and insight that is why we have passed a number of bills concerning county governments, which legislation, once enacted, will have the overall goal of transforming the lives of our people. Senate Ad Hoc Committee on tea where I am a member has held a consultative meeting with farmers in Kisii and in the fullness of time recommendations for changes in the sector will be implemented to enable them reap maximum benefits from the crop. As a member of the Senate Public Accounts and Investment Committee, I also continue being the watchdog on the utilisation of resources by the County governments including that of Kisii and The Official ensuring that the use of resources optimally brings the desire to transform. Magazine of The proposed Sugarcane processing factory in South Mugirango, has received Senate approval Kisii County and all the necessary protocols are being adhered to actualise the project. Government May God continue blessing Kisii County.

2020 Edition H.E (AMB.) PROF SAM ONGERI, EGH, EBS, M.P January 1 2020 - December 31, SENATOR, Kisii County 2020

11 t iv e

a Statement from County Woman Representative t has been an exciting journey, since I assumed office as the Kisii County Member of Parliament in 2017. The great people of Kisii County entrusted me with Ithe enormous duty of becoming their representative in championing for the rights and interests of all the affirmative action groups.

n Re pr esent o ma n The National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF), stipulates that the key beneficiaries of this

W fund will be the affirmative action groups. It is for

y this reason that most of my initiatives focus more on empowering the Girl Child, the Youth, Women, People with Disabilities, widows, widowers and the Elderly. My office also serves as an anchor to our shared

o u nt objective of empowering the youth for self-reliance. It’s

C for this reason that we sponsored students from across the county to undertake various technical courses at the National Industrial Training Authority. The beneficiaries of this programme are now independent some self-employed while others working in fully structured companies. I further sponsored Boda Boda riders drawn from all the 45 wards to acquire Category “A” Driving licenses. Talented youths have not been left behind as the ongoing Dimba Mashinani Na Mama Kisii County taps and exploits their football talents. Skilled players are drafted to various football clubs in the country. Through NGAAF we have been issuing grants for value addition initiatives, and seed money for table banking activities to various groups. I initiated ‘Inua Biashara na Ng’ina Banto’ programme where over 3,000 traders across all markets in all the nine constituencies were issued with umbrellas for shelter. There is nothing grander and greater than securing the future generation through education, this is why I introduced Mashinani Students of Excellence (MASE) programme that gives full scholarships to students from needy backgrounds. This is in addition to the Woman Rep Bursary that we have been issuing to total and partial orphans. Through the National Sanitary Towels Programme all school girls from Class 6 to Form 4 in all schools across the county receive Sanitary Towels. Besides, I initiated a programme of issuing water tanks to schools to enhance access to clean water for school going students. We are currently in phase II and so far over 100 primary and secondary schools across all wards have received 10,000 litre capacity water tanks. This programme will go a long way in reducing the time wasted by students walking long distances to fetch water. At the same time, I have been championing grassroots civic education and public Kisii awareness on the constitutional mandate that provides for the establishment of policies insight in both National and County government on 30 per cent procurement and contract reservation for women, youths and persons with disability and other existing socio-economic empowerment opportunities. I will continue to address the plight of the persons with disability, street children, providing legal aid to victims of gender based violence, widows and widowers. As I pledged during my campaigns, I wish to reaffirm my commitment to being the bridge of hope to all affirmative action groups and I urge all residents of this great county to The Official continue taking full advantage of the services that are available in the Office of the Woman Magazine of Representative. Kisii County God bless you! God Bless Kisii County! Government Hon. Janet Ong’era

2020 Edition. County Woman Representative January 1 2020 - December 31, 2020

12 Asse m b ly t i on al

Hon. Innocent Obiri Hon. Prof. Zadock Ogutu Hon. Jimmy Angwenyi Bobasi Bomachoge Borabu Kitutu Chache North s of the Na the of Me m be r s

Hon. Silvanus Osoro Hon. Oroo Oyioka Hon. Ezekiel Machogu South Mugirango Bonchari Nyaribari Masaba

Kisii insight

The Official Magazine of Kisii County Government

2020 Edition January 1 2020 - December 31, Hon. Alpha Miruka Hon. Richard Onyonka Hon. Richard Tong’i 2020 Bomachoge Chache Kitutu Chache South Nyaribari Chache 13 Statement from

’s vi ews ’s County Speaker he advent of devolution in Kenya gave birth to regional legislatures in various counties since 2013. This includes Kisii County Assembly. T In its second term, the Second Assembly of Kisii has 69 Members of the County Assembly (MCAs), 45 of whom are elected from the 45 wards of this county. The Assembly is made up of 46 male and 23 female representatives. Only one of those female legislators was

he Sp e ak r T he elected. When I was elected Speaker in September 2017, I underscored the importance of working in harmony as a government – both the legislature and the executive. To date, we have come this far because we have embraced consultation and communication between the two arms. Learning has never stopped, and as an Assembly we are always in a learning process. This has not only helped us grasp new ideas but also foster our development as an organisation. To spur the development for our people, the County Assembly has committed to ensuring that the pieces of legislations that can realise such developments are always put into consideration first, without partisan interests. That is why budget making process in this Assembly is followed closely and all guidelines and time-lines adhered to. We were among the first assemblies in this region to pass the Lake Region Economic Bloc Bill into law. The Act put a legal framework to the regional economic zone, seeking to help empower people economically. These are among legislations endeavours that this Assembly has realised in a few years of its existence and helps the county government with a legal basis to reach various individuals, groups and communities in empowerment and development of the society.

Hon David Kombo Speaker, Kisii County Assembly

Statement from County Assembly Clerk The County Assembly is one arm marginalised groups and Persons Kisii of the County Government vested with Disability. The Constitution insight with the mandate to legislate, buttresses devolution as a system represent the electorate and of governance. County assemblies oversight the County Executive and find the provision under Article 176 its organs. It’s commonly referred of the Constitution. to as the legislature from its key The Honourable speaker was mandate of legislation. elected in the first sitting of the The Second County Assembly house and thereafter, the County The Official in the County Government of Assembly Service Board was Magazine of Kisii has a total of 69 MCAs. Of constituted in line with Section 12 Kisii County the 69 MCAs, 45 are elected from (7) of the County Governments Act, Government the wards of this County, while 2012. 24 are nominated to meet the Mr James Nyaoga 2020 Edition. constitutional requirements as per January 1 2020 the Constitution of Kenya, 2010 with Clerk, Kisii County - December 31, regard to gender, youth, minorities, 2020 Assembly

14 Hon. Zablon Hon. Timothy Ogugu Hon Davins Okindo Hon James Ondari Hon John Ombati Leader of Majority Deputy Speaker Leader of Minority Chief Whip Mokua Minority Whip LY L E AD R SH IP SSE M B LY

Statement from the Leader of Majority A y

aving been selected to serve many cases. However, we are working such as library for research and in this office since the onset together on emerging challenges that reference. of the second Assembly, I may include: 4. Security: The Assembly precincts Hhave overseen, for over two are shared with the Executive and years, a good working relationship 1. Budget constraints: Because of this has proved sometimes to be a between the two arms of Kisii County ceilings imposed on our budget challenge in management of flow co u nt government. by the national government. It has of traffic. Sometimes members of The key to this harmony has been not been easy to meet the target the public end up in the chambers the cordial working relationship and achieve everything. We are unknowingly. between the County Assembly and unable to achieve our targets on the Executive arm of this government. CIDP and ADP and therefore public This has ensured that development expectations are not met. Hon Timothy Ogugu targets are achieved particularly in 2. Delay in funds release: Funds from Majority leader and MCA, roads, agriculture, trade, environment the exchequer have in some cases and other key sectors. been delayed for long, which hinder Magenche Ward Although we are a young or delay development and service legislature, the County Assembly delivery. of Kisii has continued to realise its 3. Lack of key facilities: We lack some legislative agenda with key pieces basic facilities in the legislature of legislations which enables the executive to deliver its mandate. Among the legislations passed by the Assembly include the finance and appropriation bills which have always been done in time and within Word from the Leader of Minority the guidelines. We recently passed the Lake Region Economic Bloc Act The Minority side of the County performance reports have been that seeks to legalise an economic Assembly is vested with the discussed in the Assembly. empowerment bloc in the region. responsibility to ensure that the However, we are yet to realise fully Other key legislations from the ruling side is kept under check our mandate on this. past that have really helped realise through legislations and oversight Implementation of House development includes the Kisii of its work. resolutions from Motions and Acts Teaching and Referral Hospital Act, Among the key highlights, as we among others sometimes takes the Bursaries Fund Act and Youth and are still in the same government longer because of the financial Women Empowerment Act, among even though in opposition to the challenges faced by the executive Kisii others. It will be worth noting that ruling side, is to ensure that we from time to time. Kisii County is one of the devolved help them work within the rules The bulk of legislations work insight units where the budget making and regulations. in any legislative organ is derived process has always met the required So far, in my two years of leading from the Executive side of the timelines and guidelines including the minority side of the County government and we urge them to public participation. Assembly of Kisii, Members of step up on their role of originating This has been possible through the County Assembly (MCAs) have operational Bills to enhance continued consultations, discussions been representing their people service delivery. well. However, satisfaction on Also, there is need for the and agreements between the Majority The Official services sought by the people we executive to revisit implementation and Minority sides of this government. Magazine of All views have always been taken on represent has sometimes been of policies and laws enacted by the Kisii County board. difficult, bearing in mind that First Assembly, which may still be We have supported the County reaching all of them is a challenge pending. Government Assembly Service Board in budgetary due to limited funds. allocations. Members of the County A lot of emphasis must be put to Assembly (MCAs) and our staff have ensure residents are continuously Hon James Ondari 2020 Edition always been supported in capacity involved and general public Minority leader and MCA, January 1 2020 building. participation enhanced. - December 31, Responses from the Executive side In oversight, there has been Boochi Tendere 2020 to queries on the floor of the House much improvement as audit have been timely and satisfactory in reports and key departmental 15 Fostering a robust legislative institution he County Assembly is one arm of the County Government vested with the mandate to legislate, represent the Telectorate and oversight the County Executive and its organs. It’s commonly referred to as the legislature from its key mandate of legislation. The Second County Assembly in the County Government of Kisii has a total of 69 Members of the County Assembly (MCAs). Of the 69 MCAs, 45 are elected from the wards of this county, while 24 are nominated to meet the constitutional requirements as per the Constitution of Kenya, 2010 with regard to gender, youth, minorities, marginalised groups and Persons with Disability. The Constitution buttresses devolution as a system of governance. Institutional Framework Milestones: The County Assembly Service Board is fully constituted and functional. The Board has an appointed substantive Clerk of the Assembly and recruited staff with diverse competencies CEC in charge of Finance presenting the 2019-2020 budget at the Assembly and skills for all directorates to enhance service delivery. So as to always refresh these into use. Oversight and Representation competencies and empower the MCAs in debate Legislative milestones: The Oversight function is effective in the County and committee work, the service board has Legislations being a key mandate of any Assembly. For instance, recently when there were continuously trained and built capacity of the legislature in the world, Kisii County Assembly has issues in the County Departments of Finance House Committees and staff. for the last six years endeavoured to make laws for and Procurements in budget implementation, it Directorates: this county with the aim of making the lives of its formed an ad hoc committee to investigate the As the County Assembly makes strides to the people better. Through these pieces of legislation, matter. From the investigations, changes were future, the Kisii County Assembly Service Board the Assembly seeks to either put a framework recommended and effected in those departments. rolled out a five-year Strategic Plan, with a road towards empowering the people financially, or It will also be noted that in the First Assembly, map on where this legislative arm of the County bringing better and affordable services to the many village roads were opened due to the fact Government of Kisii seeks to be by the year 2023. locals. that the assembly followed closely and assisted the The Strategic Plan which has 13 key strategies Among key highlights in legislations passed by executive through framework and collaboration of to guide the institution also outlines the vision, the Assembly include the following Acts and Policy the Members (MCAs). mission and the core values to drive the legislature Papers; A number of petitions have been presented forward. Recently, the board reviewed its ACTs seeking the government to act in needy organisational structure and realigned some of the i) Kisii County Teaching and Referral Hospital interventions. Key on this that we can identify with directorates for effective service delivery. The new Act, 2013. is the petition by Bomorenda Ward MCA Hon John structure comprises the following Directorates: ii) Kisii County Trade Credit Scheme Act, 2015. Ombati, that sought to improve Suneka Market in i. Human Resource Management iii) Kisii County NHIF Support Act, 2015. Bonchari sub-county.

Kisii county A SS EMBL Y Kisii county ii. Administrative Services iv) Kisii County Bursaries Fund Act, 2014 Today, the market is under renovation and iii. Hansard and Communication v) Kisii County ECDE Act, 2013. further extensions due to the interventions and iv. Legal and Legislative Services vi) Kisii County Youth & Women recommendations that were made from the house v. Committee and Procedural Services Empowerment Fund Act, 2016. resolutions following the petition. vi. Research and Information Technology vii) Lake Region Economic Bloc Act, 2018. The committee system vii. Finance and Accounting Services This seeks to bring together counties in the The County Assembly constituted sectoral and Lake Region with an aim of not only integrating select committees as required by the Standing Infrastructural Development: more of its residents, but also in creating Orders. The committees are fully operational. They Kisii County Assembly is one of the most economic empowerment, creating employment include: effective devolved legislatures when it comes to opportunities and upgrading the health and i Lands, Physical Planning and Urban value for money on infrastructural development. agriculture sectors. Development Besides the milestones it achieved in Policy Papers ii. Health Services infrastructural development during the First viii) The Annual Development Plan-ADP iii. Labour and Social Welfare Kisii Assembly, the institution continues to ensure a ix) The Fiscal Strategy Paper iv. Culture, Children, Youth, Sports and insight conducive working environment for the honourable x) The County Budget Review Outlook Paper- Community Services members and staff. CBROP v. Justice and Legal Affairs The Assembly continues to refurbish the The CBROP looks into how the budget vi. Early Childhood Development, Education hansard equipment and system. It has a twin performed in the previous Financial Year as per the and Vocational Training two-storey fully-furnished office block, and a new other two policy papers that are used in planning. vii. Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and four-storey office/library/cafeteria block is almost Therefore, the Assembly ensures that the Cooperative Development complete. Construction of ward offices is already budget goes hand in hand with the plans. viii. Energy, Environment, Water and Natural underway in various wards even as the hired In every Financial Year, Kisii County Assembly Resources adheres to policy timelines as provided for in ix. Trade, Tourism and Industry The Official offices in those wards are fully furnished. Soon, the Assembly will have a new debating chamber as the Public Finance Management Act, 2012. The x. Roads, Transport and Public Works Magazine of approvals for same have already been realised. Assembly has never had a stalemate in budget xi. Public Accounts and Investments Kisii County In the current offices, the latest streaming making process since the guidelines and timelines xii. Budget and Appropriations Government technology for the assembly sessions is working are followed. Secondly, the working relationship xiii. Committee on Implementation as information communication technology is put between the executive arm of the government and xiv. Delegated County Legislations the legislature is cordial. Support to the Executive The Kisii County Assembly continues to support 2020 Edition. the County Executive by ensuring that all County January 1 2020 MANDATE legislation, policies and plans that support the - December 31, The Assembly’s core functions include legislating, oversight and representation. efficient delivery of services, attract investment 2020 Article 185 of the Constitution and Section 8 of the County Government Act, and support the County development agenda are 2012; are very elaborate on the roles of the County Assembly. These are: expeditiously debated, passed and adopted or Representation;Legislations and Oversight. enacted into Law. 16 Hon Agatha Mayora Hon Amos Begi Hon Andrew Kimonge Hon Bathseba Sanaya Hon Beatrice Doyle Hon Beatrice Kayaga

Hon Benson Ongeri Hon Bernard Ogari Hon Bilancio Maturwe Hon Calleb Ong’uti Hon Caroline Otachi Hon Catherine Manzi ounty Ass embl y M embe rs of Kisii C

Hon Charles Chacha Hon Charles Nyagoto Hon Claire Moraa Hon Daniel Apepo Hon David Bwana Hon Davins Okindo

Hon Dennis Ombachi Hon Duke Nyarang’o Hon Edmond Mokumi Hon Eric Janganya Hon Evans Mokoro Hon Geoffrey Ombui

Kisii insight

The Official Hon Geofrrey Ondong’a Hon Grace Ogonda Hon Harriet Kerubo Hon Ibrahim Mose Hon Ibrahim Ombuya Hon Isabella Oigara Ong’era Magazine of Kisii County Government

2020 Edition January 1 2020 - December 31, 2020

Hon. Samuel Apoko Hon. Samuel Ong’onoh Hon. Samuel Onukoh Hon. Samwel Gekonge Hon. Timothy Ogugu Hon. Vincent Gitene 17 Asse m b ly y

Hon Ismael Matundura Hon James Anunda Hon James Gisore Hon James Ondari Hon Jane Justin Hon Jane Moseti o u nt C

Hon Japhet Ombeo Hon John Amisi Hon John Ombati Hon Joseph Chweya Hon Josephine Ombati Hon Joyce Ombasa s of K i s ii of Me m be r s

Hon Julius Osoti Hon Karen Magara Hon Kefah Kebabe Hon Kennedy Mainya Hon Kepha Sagini Hon Loice Mwongela

Hon. Margret Atina Hon. Mary Michieka Hon. Methusela Ogero Hon. Naomi Ronald Hon. Norah Onyancha Hon. Paul Angwenyi

Kisii insight

The Official Magazine of Hon. Peter Gekanana Hon. Protus Moindi Hon. Richard Atang’a Hon. Risper Ong’uti Hon. Rosa Orondo Hon. Samson Mogusu Kisii County Government 45

2020 Edition. Wards January 1 2020 - December 31, 2020 69 Members of Kisii 23 46 County Assembly Female Male 18 Hon. Vincent Moisabi Hon. Zablon Mokua Hon. Zipporah Morere 45 elected, 24 nominated Hon. James Elvis Omariba Ongwae, H.E Hon Joash Maangi, MBS, Know Y our Cab in e t CBS, E.B.S, OGW. Deputy Governor, Kisii County Governor, Kisii County

Sarah Esman Onsarigo Amos Andama Dr Walter Okibo Edina Omache Agriculture, Education Labour and Administration, Corporate Kangwana Kisii Health Services Livestock, Fisheries Manpower Development Services and Stakeholder Trade and insight and Cooperatives Management Industry Development

The Official Magazine of Kisii County Government

2020 Edition Dr Skitter Duke Mainga John Momanyi Vincent Sagwe Moses Patrick January 1 2020 Ocharo Culture, Sports, Lands, Housing, Roads, Public Works Onderi Lumumba - December 31, Energy, Water, Youth and Social Physical Planning and and Transport Finance and County 2020 Environment and Services UrbanDevelopment Economic Secretary and Natural Resources Planning Head of Public Service 19 e rs

Timothy Kambuni Abel Sagini Alex Nyamweya Alice Abuki Beatrice Ochoki Ag. Executive Public Works Ag. Stakeholer Health Water Services and Housing Management, Public participation & Disaster Management

Bernard Billiah Carolyne Charles Nahashon Omosa Mogaka Nyaseti Nyakweba Ongeri Ag. Revenue Trade and Culture, Sports, Youth Ag. Energy, Municipal Manager Management Industry and Social Services Environment and Natural Resources county C hi e f O ffic county

Crispus Njoga Dr Doris Dr. Alphaneus Mokaya Nicodemus Lands, Physical Nyokangi Fisheries, Livestock and Okondo Planning &Urban Education and Veterinery Services Roads Development Manpower Kisii Development insight

The Official Magazine of Kisii County Government

2020 Edition. January 1 2020 Wilfred Auma Zablon Ongori Geofrey Mogire Naomi Mokaya - December 31, Finance & Planning and Admnistration, Agriculturea and 2020 Accounting Services Economic Enforcement and Co-operative Development Devolved Units Development 20 e s

CPA Obwoge Lukio Ongeni Chris Ibalai Jared Oteyo Joseph Kiage Eng. Raymond Director Accounting Services Chief Finance Officer Administration, Labour and Trade Mugambi Manpower Development Roads

Nicodemus Orito Obadiah Manyara Pamela Kemunto Patrick Achoki Francis Osoro Disaster Managment Gamming and Betting Commissioner Physical Planning Admnistration Co-operatives Environment

Andrew Nyamwaro Daniel Maguto Duke Ongechi Edwin Muga Reuben Nyakundi Livestock Enforcement Human Resource Fisheries Public Works Management a t Hea d of D ir e ctor

Victor Odoyo Samuel Wanyama Swanya Onkware Henry Mbaka Isaac Ongiri ICT Sports Administration Culture Fleet Management Communication, Donor Liaison and Protocol Services

Kisii insight

Evans Nyachio Ezekiel Ombaso Geofrey Muturi Harun Nyamache Jefferson Akunga Supply Chain Management Culture Tourism Development Ag. Director Ag. Director Special Administration Programs The Official Magazine of Kisii County Government

2020 Edition January 1 2020 - December 31, 2020 Oyaro Pamela Kintu Lucas Arasa Maseme Machuka John Ayega Kenyoru Director Finance & Director Revenue, Administration Trade Liquor Licencing Municipal Engineer Administration Municipality 21 Transformational infrastructural development at the Sub Counties H EAL TH S E CTOR

Governor James Ongwae admiring a new born child at the KTRH hospital when he visited the facility recently

under five in Bomachoge Borabu will from now on be enjoying improved healthcare The services. The facility is now fully equipped. department At Gucha Level four hospital in is determined Bomachoge Chache, construction of a new kitchen is ongoing, while the laundry unit is to ensure county complete and equipped with machines, the residents in all the 45 mortuary is also complete and machinery wards have access to and equipment delivered to the facility. quality and affordable Gucha is the second largest health facility in the county after Kisii Teaching and healthcare services. Referral Hospital. – CEC Sarah Omache Recently, the county procured and Kisii installed a power transformer to address insight – Chief Officer perennial power supply challenges at the Alice Abuki facility. Sarah Omache Alice Abuki Engineers are finalising installation of ealth facilities in the nine sub- made great efforts to further improve an Electrical Distribution Panel to allow counties in Kisii County have healthcare service delivery at the the hospital operate specialised equipment undergone infrastructural upgrade grassroots,” she notes. including digital x-rays, dental x-ray and through renovation of basic facilities KTRH has been outstretching its theatre equipment. H At Marani in Kitutu Chache North and installation of core medical equipment resources as it seeks to prove its capability. The Official since 2013. “We want the health establishments Sub County, the county government has Magazine of The county plans to make the devolved to live to their true status of sub-county renovated and expanded the Out Patient Kisii County unit a health destination for residents of the referral hospitals. We shall upgrade these Department (OPD) and now patients can Government greater South Nyanza region. The county hospitals to Level Five facilities to help access ultra sound and digital x-ray services government is also identifying dispensaries decongest KTRH and bring services closer at the hospital. built through CDF and other agencies to the people,” the health CEC explains. Construction of a modern accident and 2020 Edition. through the county with a view to having Nyamache Sub-County Hospital now has emergency ward that will have theatre and a January 1 2020 them operationalised. a second theatre and a renal unit mortuary is ongoing. - December 31, Kisii Health County Executive Member At Kenyenya Sub-County hospital, “We plan to build theatres at Iyabe and 2020 Sarah Omache affirms that the upgrade in the county has finalised construction Nduru hospitals in Bonchari and South the rural facilities will also help decongest of a theatre in partnership with the Aga Mogirango sub-counties to promote quality Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital (KTRH). Khan Development Network, and is now healthcare in these areas, ultimately easing “Our focus on healthcare development operational. pressure on the county referral hospital, 22 has not only been at the KTRH. We have Expectant women, newborns and children KTRH,” Omache discloses. MANDATE The mandate of the health sector is wide and includes overseeing and coordinating the overall health service delivery systems by all health service providers within the county. These r secto th include County Public health systems; private for profit and private not for profit players, Non-Governmental Organisations and Development

Partners. H e al The Department is focused on attaining the goal of “health for all, by all” working with both the duty bearers and rights holders alike through a Primary Health Care (PHC) approach. This approach embraces curative and rehabilitative care concurrently with preventive and promotive care, a continuum of care through the populations’ life-cycle and integrated people-centered health care system from households. The broad mandate of the health sector is articulated in Chapter 4 of the Kenyan Constitution (2010) under the Bill of Rights, which recognises health as an economic and social right noting that: “every person has the right to the highest attainable standards of health, which includes the right to health care services including reproductive health.”

Vision An efficient and high quality health care system that is accessible, equitable and affordable for every resident of Kisii County.

President Uhuru Kenyatta commissioning the newly constructed Anatomy and Histology laboratory at the KTRH. mission To promote and participate in the provision of integrated and high quality promotive, preventive, curative and rehabilitative health care services to all residents of Kisii County.

Kisii insight

The Official Magazine of Kisii County Government

2020 Edition January 1 2020 - December 31, 2020

A newly constructed and fully furnished hostel block for doctors. 23 Kisii set to roll out UHC scheme, deliver r secto th affordable services isii residents are set to Kisii, said that UHC will only be H e al benefit from Universal a success if there is community Health Care (UHC) as the participation, equitable county moves to make distribution of resources, inter- K The intensive care unit (ICU) at Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital treatment affordable for all. sectoral coordination, embrace The county joins a list of other of appropriate technology and devolved units in the country decentralization. where the programme is already She notes that counties must running. forge a close working relationship According to Governor James with central government officials Ongwae, the county will recruit at the grassroots such as chiefs, more community volunteers their assistants and village who are key in implementing the elders. programme. For UHC to be considered In line with the World Health a success, Dr Onyancha roots Organization (WHO), UHC means for, education of the masses, that all people and communities promotion of food supply and can use the promotive, proper food nutrition, adequate preventive, curative, rehabilitative supply of safe water and basic and palliative health services they sanitation, maternal and child need, of sufficient quality to be health care, sanitation and effective, while also ensuring that prevention and control of local the use of these services does endemic diseases are some of not expose the user to financial the necessary activities. hardship. Notably, President Uhuru UHC embodies equity in Kenyatta launched the UHC Pilot access to health services where Programme dubbed Afya Care everyone who needs services – Wema Wa Mkenya in Kisumu should get them, not only those last year. who can pay for them; the quality He said the programme of health services should be good enables Kenyans to access enough to improve the health affordable healthcare without of those receiving services; and financial hardship. people should be protected Health is one of the against financial-risk, ensuring Big Four agenda in which that the cost of using services President Kenyatta hopes to does not put people at risk of Members of Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists’ board led by Prof George Magoha build his legacy. He has often (now Education Cabinet Secretary) are taken round by Governor James Ongwae during financial harm. assured Kenyans that the rollout an inspection of projects at KTRH. Governor Ongwae notes of the universal healthcare that equitable distribution as a coverage, which seeks to provide pillar of the UHC does not stop at quality, affordable medical care drugs and infrastructure but also to Kenyans, is on course and will human resource. be completed as promised by his “Community volunteers are government. Kisii the most important people “We are embarking on this insight because the number of nurses journey in a phased manner is not even enough for our starting with a pilot phase in the dispensaries,” he observes. counties of Kisumu, , He reckons that his and and we expect administration has a budgetary to learn critical lessons that allocation for the recruitment shall inform the rapid scale saying the county is indentifying up to the rest of the country,” and set to increase the number said President Kenyatta after The Official of community volunteers to a launching the programme and Magazine of minimum 80 per cent up from 50 signing the UHC service charter Kisii County per cent. with the four governors in Dr Pacifica Onyancha from the Government in December last ministry of health in the national year. government while in a function in 2020 Edition. Mr Walter Nyakundi, January 1 2020 a trader in Kisii town says - December 31, the new mortuary is of great 2020 importance to Kisii County residents and beyond. He says The 100 body capacity mortuary, anatomy and histology lab at KTRH. it is a key measure of success It has replaced the previous 25 body capacity morgue. The lab has been in the health sector. donated to the Kisii University for training of medical students. 24 Taking health services closer to Mwananchi through ambulances r secto th Sub Counties embraced the ambulatory services as devolution spreads benefits to more people on the ground H e al he provision of ambulatory services by Kisii County Government has helped save Tthousands of lives. The 10 ambulances acquired by the county and distributed in all the sub-counties have helped a lot in handling emergencies and referrals. The nine sub-counties have one ambulance each with one stationed at the Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital (KTRH). An ambulance is a medically equipped vehicle which transports patients to treatment facilities, such as hospitals. In some instances, out-of-hospital medical care is provided to the patient. Ambulances are used to First Lady Margaret Kenyatta when she visited maternity ward at KTRH. She respond to medical emergencies by commended the county government for improved service delivery in the facility emergency medical teams Health Executive Sarah Omache long way in improving and delivering said the ambulances have helped the health services in the county. The improve patient transfers within and ambulances are fitted with state-of- outside the county. the- art equipment complimented “Provision of healthcare for our by well-trained Emergency Medical people has been our core function. Technicians (EMT) to attend to Patients within the county are emergency needs of patients en route transferred to the various Health to hospital,” said the Health CEC. facilities at no cost. Only referrals The ambulances have complete outside the county and which are radio call systems for easier very rare are charged at a subsidised communication and coordination amount,” she said. and which have helped in reducing “We have a fully-equipped the response time to less than 30 Each Sub-County was allocated one ambulance while KTRH also ambulatory service that has gone a minutes within the county. received a fully equipped vehicle for its ambulatory services

County’s ultra-modern morgue fully operating he state-of-the-art morgue at “The structures occupy two floors the country adding that the hospital the Kisii Teaching and Referral of the new structure that we have has ensured proper maintainance Kisii Hospital (KTRH) is now fully donated to the Kisii University Medical and professional management of the insight Toperational. School to support training,” said the facility since it was commissioned The 100 Body Capacity Mortuary Governor. early last year. with Histology and Anatomy The new mortuary has a post- ‘There is no difference between Laboratories was part of the facilities mortem table, body washing table, what we have here and what one commissioned by President Uhuru body trolley, rising and lowering roll, would get at those fancied morgues Kenyatta earlier this year. cooling cabinets among other state-of in Nairobi. Though as doctors we During the commissioning, the art equipment. don’t advocate for our patients to die, Governor James Ongwae indicated Ongwae further said that a funeral when it happens, it is proper to give a The Official that the hospital which was built parlour-cum-chapel constructed near dignified send off’. Magazine of over 90 years has operated with a 24- the morgue is also operational. The President also commissioned Kisii County body capacity mortuary. “We have a chapel for the last a 64 slice CT Scan for specialized Government “We now have a modern 100 body respect used by the relatives and scanning which is supplementing the capacity mortuary with state-of-the- friends of the departed. We have existing 16 slide CT Scan launched by art cooling facility,” said Ongwae. employed a pastor who spiritually Ongwae alongside a Medical Waste Ongwae revealed that in support encourages the bereaved families treatment and disposal – Microwave 2020 Edition of the teaching and referral activities, before transporting their beloved ones shredder and a 250 Bed Capacity Male January 1 2020 and as part of the new mortuary, the home for the final rites,” said Ongwae. Ward. - December 31, county government has built Anatomy The hospital Chief Executive Officer KTRH also serves neighboring 2020 and Histology laboratories for medical Dr. Enoch Ondari said the KTRH counties including Homa Bay, Migori, research. morgue is one of the best facilites in Narok, Nyamira and . 25 canceR CENTRe

Donors endorse Sh2 As you are aware, increased cases of r secto th cancer have become a billion design for the matter of serious concern to my administration. And it is for H e al Kisii Cancer Centre this reason that two years ago, I committed to mobilise resources for the establishment of four Former Treasury Cabinet Secretary cancer Centres of Excellence in (right) receives loan the country,” agreement documents from the Chairman of the – President Uhuru Kenyatta. Arab Bank for Economic Development in Kenya (BADEA) H.E. Yousef Ibrahim Al Bassam (centre) as Kisii Governor James Ongwae looks on.

housands of cancer patients are set of four cancer Centres of Excellence in the to benefit from a Sh 2 billion Cancer country,” said President Uhuru Kenyatta Diagnostic and Treatment Centre that when he visited KTRH early this year. Twill be built at the Kisii Teaching and Kisii is among the first beneficiaries of Referral Hospital. this initiative. Nyeri, and Most cancer patients face difficulties counties will have the other three centres accessing treatment in Kenya due to limited and each will be constructed at a cost of Sh2 A patient undergoing CT scan at KTRH facilities which number about 12, including billion. private ones. The government has also set up 10 hallmark of devolution. Kenya’s two public institutions namely chemotherapy centres across the country to “The centres in counties will decongest Kenyatta National Hospital and ensure access to cancer management. the Kenyatta National Hospital,” said Referral Hospital are overstretched. President Kenyatta has lauded the Health Kariuki. Governor James Ongwae said the The project is jointly funded through ministry which has been partnering with the proposed Kisii Cancer Centre will serve not a loan by the Arab Bank for Economic devolved units to ensure better services. only Kisii County, but the wider Western and Development in Africa (BADEA) and the Speaking in Kisii in Februray 2019,Interior Nyanza regions. Kisii Teaching and Referral Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) to a tune Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, who Hospital is emerging to be a regional of Sh2.25 billion. was recently appointed by the President medical destination, he said. The governor has hailed the National to coordinate government projects said The facility is the biggest public health Government (through the Ministries of the national government will continue institution in South Nyanza and serves over Finance and Health) for facilitating the partnering with devolved units to ensure six million people in Kisii, Nyamira, Migori, signing of the loan agreement with BADEA development for Kenyans. Homa Bay, and Trans Mara. and SFD to implement the project. “I will ensure implementation of Cancer is one of the leading causes of The Consultant has already signed government projects so as to avoid wastage death worldwide with approximately 14 relevant contracts with the health minstry in of public resources. The projects we have million new cases reported annually. It was Nairobi to originate designs for the Cancer launched today are a great indication of responsible for 8.8 million deaths in 2015. Centre. what utilisation of public resources can lead In Kenya, an estimated 40,000 new cancer “As you are aware, increased cases of to,” said Dr Matiang’i. cases and 28,000 deaths occur each year, cancer have become a matter of serious Former Health Cabinet Secretary Sicily making the disease the third leading cause concern to my administration. And it is for Kariuki, now Water and sanitation CS, of mortality and accounting for seven per Kisii this reason that two years ago, I committed and her Devolution counterpart Eugene cent of all annual deaths. insight to mobilise resources for the establishment Wamalwa said the cancer centre will be a

The ongoing construction of the Mother and Child Hospital at KTRH. The 200 bed capacity facility will offer dedicated services to women and children.

The Official Magazine of Kisii County Government

2020 Edition. January 1 2020 - December 31, 2020 Governor James Ongwae joined by visiting governors during a tour of various facilities and development projects at Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital. 26 In brief KTRH grows into a model hospital as the devolution r secto th spirit bears fruits H e al Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital (KTRH) has since the advent of devolution undergone a major infrastructure upgrade, making it the largest public hospital in South Nyanza region. The upgrade has led to better service delivery, with the facility now emerging to be a regional medical destination. A radiologist explains how a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine At least six million people drawn from works at KTRH. The machine is installed at the facility serving a wide neighbouring counties of Homa Bay, Migori, range of patients from the Western and Nyanza regions. Narok, Nyamira and Bomet are served at the facility annually. Governor James Ongwae holds KTRH dear to his heart and is keen to ensure its success in promoting devolution in the populous county. The hospital was one of his flagship projects during his inauguration in 2013. During his 2017 swearing-in, he vowed to do all that is in his power to realise his dream of better and affordable health care. A new 250-bed male ward; a 100-body capacity mortuary, an incinerator unit, a second borehole unit and pharmacy store are complete. “We have installed a solar lighting system within the hospital to supplement the H.E James Ongwae during the official opening of a surgical theatre at Nyamache Sub-County Hospital existing electrical lighting system and save on costs,” said the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer Enock Ondari. President Uhuru Kenyatta last year launched more than five new medical facilities at KTRH in what he said was actualisation of devolution. The President and ODM party leader were full of praise for Ongwae over the multi-million shilling projects that will see South Nyanza residents benefit Further, there is now a Doctors’ hostel block with 50 self-contained units of very high standards to be used by interns and visiting doctors on exchange programs. The construction of a 200-bed capacity Mother and Child Hospital has started. This Kisii will offer specialised services to expectant insight Kisii County governor H.E James Ongwae unveiling new ambulances for the county mothers and children under one roof. This will enhance the bed capacity at KTRH to 900. “To create a more conducive environment for doctors, the construction of a doctors’ plaza is already underway. This will enable specialised doctors reside and attend to patients within KTRH and eliminate the practice where they attend to patients out of The Official the hospital,” said Dr Ondari. Magazine of Further, Kisii University has been Kisii County accredited to offer medical training at the Government KTRH. “I am glad to report to you that the Kisii University Medical School is now operational, 2020 Edition with its first batch of 30 students already January 1 2020 admitted. The students will complement our health delivery services as most of the - December 31, teaching will be practical and will be done in 2020 our wards,” said the hospital’s CEO.

A modern incinerator at the Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital (KTRH) 27 r secto th H e al

His Excellency President Uhuru Kenyatta being taken round the Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital by Governor James Ongwae when he visited the hospital to commission new projects recently. Walking the talk Morale boost as Gov. Ongwae sends 64 medical doctors for specialised trainings to step up service delivery in Kisii County

isii County government is useful to our people, we have committed to continually made sure we have enough improve terms and specialised staff,” said Governor Kconditions of health James Ongwae. workers and doctors so as to At the moment, the boost their morale for enhanced county has 25 specialists, 179 service delivery. Doctors, over 1,000 nurses Timely staff promotions, while 64 doctors are attending re-designation, capacity building specialised training in oncology, and rational recruitment to general surgery, dermatology, forestall understaffing are just neurosurgery, and pathology some of the key measures among others. Governor James Ongwae inspects drugs consignment purchased being undertaken by the county “I am happy to also report from KEMSA at KTRH before distribution to sub counties. executive. that recently, we hired an “We have focused on with specialists from various There is even staff distribution additional 100 nurses to help reducing infant and material parts of the world to offer across health facilities in the operationalise some of the mortality, combating HIV/AIDS much needed services to the sub-counties whereby sub- health facilities built through and easing the rising burden of people through avenues such county hospitals now have up CDF and other agencies at the non-communicable morbidity,” as telemedicine. to three doctors each. Some grassroots, which had been lying said Ongwae. There are two Cuban of these facilities didn’t have a idle,” said Ongwae. The County government has doctors offering specialised Kisii doctor before devolution. The county has also stepped also explored collaborations services in the county. insight “In order to ensure that up primary healthcare in order the investment we have put in to prevent communicable and place in our health facilities is non-communicable illnesses. Anatomy and Histology lab

The Official Magazine of Kisii County Government

2020 Edition. January 1 2020 - December 31, 2020

A Kisii University student carries out a test in the Anatomy lab at KTRH 28 The High Dependancy Unit at KTRH Relief in the county as renal system is

installed at KTRH r secto th

Renal Unit at the Kisii says she used to visit Kenyatta Teaching and Referral National Hospital and Nairobi Hospital has brought West Hospital for dialysis. H e al Ahope to hundreds of “The queues there were long patients with kidney problems in and it was hell waiting for your Kisii County and beyond. turn. I had suffered for four The Intensive Care Unit at KTRH. The unit can serve more than years, before discovering that 25 clients, in addition to dozens I could easily get treated just a others, for related services on few kilometers from my home. daily basis. Ms Mokaya started visiting Most patients suffering from KTRH two years ago and the diabetes, hypertension or both gains are tremendous, she says. visit the facility twice a week for The patient who hails from dialysis to undergo the process Nyabururu area near Kisii for four hours. town, says she now saves about Dialysis is an artificial way of Sh4000, which was previusly carrying out this process. People spent on bus fare alone. with failed or damaged kidneys She says she had to be there may have difficulty eliminating very early to avoid the long waste and unwanted water from queues and so had to leave Kisii the blood at night. Dialysis substitutes the Jane Mwangi, a nurse at the natural work of the kidneys facility says she and three of her and is also known as renal colleagues find joy in serving replacement therapy (RRT). their patients. The government meets The nurse says they have the cost of dialysis for the 25 learnt the art of bonding with patients through the National their clients. Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF). “Besides physical treatment, “Being an elderly person, I we ensure that they are have been given an NHIF card psychologically prepared, their and I have been able to save condition is manageable and about Sh10,000 per session. our main aim is to ensure their Initially, I would spend about good health before undergoing a Sh20,000 for the two sessions transplant,” she says. every week. This is minus KTRH Chief Executive Officer drugs which would cost about Dr Enock Ondari says the Inside the modern KTRH mortuary. The facility has been installed Sh5,000,” says a Ruth Mokaya. officers at the unit go a long with State of the Art equipment to handle body preservation. The 70-year-old mother of 10 way to ensure all patients are attended to. “At times they work over the RENAL UNIT weekend and late into the night depending on the number of patients,” he says. Dr Ondari says Wednesdays are set aside for consultations Kisii with new clients. He says they insight also handle emergency cases besides their normal clients. “We have invested in training of more staff,” he adds. The hospital has 10 dialysis machines, five of them having been purchased by Kisii County government immediately after The Official the onset of devolution. Magazine of Kisii Teaching and Referral Kisii County Hospital acquired five other Government machines in a partnership with the National Government through Managed Equipment Services. 2020 Edition The hospital’s CEO says the January 1 2020 machines are a treasure for the - December 31, hospital as patients from as far 2020 as Migori, Homabay, Trans Mara and Nyamira visit the facility for A newly established and fully furnished renal unit at the KTRH. the specialised services. 29 A new hospital block being constructed at the Marani Sub- County Hospital. Once complete the facility will lead to the upgrading of the hospital. r secto th H e al

The modern kitchen at Ogembo Hospital constructed by the county government to ensure quality of food prepared for the patients is good. The hospital is currently using a temporary structure that houses the kitchen. County upgrades health facilities to improve services

ealth facilities cleaning and drying of across Kisii have linen. experienced The hospital’s staff Hnotable currently clean their linen infrastructural upgrade manually which greatly in recent years. inconveniences services. This, according to The construction of Governor James Ongwae the modern kitchen will is geared towards ensure the quality of food enhancing and bringing prepared for the patients service delivery closer to is good. The hospital the people. is using a temporary In Gucha level structure that houses the 4 hospital we have kitchen. constructed a modern At Marani a new kitchen, 16 body capacity hospital block is being An X-Ray unit that has been completed at Keumbu Sub County Hospital. Residents of Nyaribari Chache can now access X-Ray services from the facility. mortuary and a laundry. constructed, a move The mortuary will aimed at giving the serve the hospital rural based facility a and neighbouring modern outlook. The facilities. Currently, World Bank sponsored residents are forced to project is funded by the preserve bodies of their Kenya devolution Support loved ones either at Programme (KDSP). Tabaka Mission Hospital At Kenyenya Sub Kisii or Kisii Teaching and County Hospital, the insight Referral Hospital (KTRH). county government in This shoots their funeral partnership with Aga expenses. Khan Foundation has Mr Julius Ondieki, a constructed an ICT centre resident of Ogembo town with internet connection. said they have suffered a The centre has created a lot when they lose their platform for E-learning A theatre at Kenyenya Sub County Hospital. The unit was actualised through the partnership of loved ones. for health workers. the Aga Khan Development Network. The unit will help the facility to carry out various surgical procedures to patients. It will also ease pressure at the referral hospital in Kisii town. The Official “Incurring body The ICT centre has Magazine of transportation costs also created a platform Kisii County back home from Kisii for consultations with Khan, the county A bore hole has also completed an X-ray unit Government or Tabaka has been a Aga Khan Health facilities government has set up a been sunk at Nyamache at Keumbu Sub County burden for many families. in Kisumu and Mombasa. theatre unit that will help Hospital to curb frequent Hospital and machines The morgue will help us The facility is a great the facility in carrying water shortage in the will soon be installed at 2020 Edition. reduce the expenses and boost to the hospital out various surgeries. hospital. Patients had the facility to offer X-ray January 1 2020 ensure we accord our since it helps members A similar ICT centre experienced challenges services. - December 31, departed ones decent of staff make enquiries has been set up in in the facility due to Currently, patients 2020 send-offs. on critical cases with Nyamache Sub County insufficient supply of who seek X- ray services The laundry will be other hospitals online. Hospital for the benefit water. at the hospital are crucial to the facility Through the of the the area and its The county referred to Kisii Teaching since it will fasten the partnership with Aga neighbours. government has also and Referral Hospital. 30 BEFORE DEVOLUTION AFTER DEVOLUTION ICU - 2 beds ICU - 6 beds HDU - 0 beds HDU - 3 beds Theatre - 3 Theatre - 6 Oxygen plant - 1 Oxygen plant - 3 units unit CT Scan - 2 CT Scan - 0 MRI - 1 r secto th KTRH MRI - 0 Mammogram - 1 Infrastructure & Mammogram OPG (dental xray) - 1 equipment - 0 Digital Xray - 1 OPG (dental xray) - 0 Dialysis - 12 H e al Digital Xray - 0 Bed capacity - 650 Morgue - 120 bodies Dialysis - 0 Ambulance - 1 Bed capacity - 450 Morgue - 20 bodies Ambulance - 0

1. Carpark - 100 cars 2. Increased water capacity (Boreholes - 2, water tank - 300,000 litres, Elevated 3. New 200 bed 3 storeyed male ward 4. Theater/Office block/conference block 5. Morgue/anatomy/histology block KTRH 6. Chapel block Infrastructure 7. Doctors Hostel block 8. Microwave Shredder 9. Doctors plaza (under construction) 10. Mother child Hospital (under construction) Ongoing construction of Marani Hospital mortuary. 11. Perimeter Wall (under construction) 12. Pharmacy Store Car park (under construction) The mortuary is 1. Ultramodern casualty and theatre block nearly complete at 2. Mortuary Block (under construction) Ogembo Hospital Marani 3. Inpatient block (100 beds) that will serve Infrastructure & 4. Cold room equipment (mortuary) the hospital and equipment 5. Xray neighbouring 6. Ultrasound facilities. Currently, 7. Assorted equipment residents are forced to preserve bodies 1. Mortuary block of their loved ones Ogembo 2. Laundry block either at Tabaka Infrastructure & 3. Kitchen block Mission Hospital or equipment 4. Fully equipped theatre Kisii Teaching and 5. Assorted equipment Referral Hospital 1. Maternal and Child Block (KTRH). Kenyenya 2. Ultrasound Infrastructure & 3. Fully equipped theatre equipment 4. Power back generator 5. Assorted equipment 1. Dialysis - 5 beds Nyamache 2. Ultrasound Infrastructure & 3. Fully equipped theatres - 2 equipment 4. Assorted equipment Nduru 1. Upcoming inpatient/theatre block Infrastructure & 2. Assorted equipment equipment 1. Upcoming casualty/theatre block Kisii Iyabe 2. Assorted equipment insight 1. Xray 2. Ultrasound Keumbu 3. Fully equipped theatre 4. Assorted equipment 1. Fully equipped theatre A surgical theatre at Keumbu sub county hospital. Gesusu 2. Xray 3. Assorted equipment 1. Xray room (upcoming) The Official 2. Xray Iranda 3. Dental chair Magazine of 4. Assorted equipment Kisii County Dispensaries and 1. Assorted equipment Government Health Centers

2020 Edition BEFORE DEVOLUTION AFTER DEVOLUTION January 1 2020 Hospitals 9 25 - December 31, 2020 Health Centers 25 37

A Renal Unit at Nyamache sub county hospital. This will ease the congestion at KTRH. Dispensaries 47 79 31 Key MILESTONES SINCE 2013 In improving healthcare, the county has invested in infrastructure, medical equipment and human resource development as a result, Kisii Level 5 Hospital has been upgraded into teaching and referral hospital. Human Resource Status Infrastructure r secto th

bed

H e al 250 100 300,000 200 bed capacity completed body litres water tanks capacity Mother and commissioned in capacity and Child Hospital male ward mortuary - on going • Mortuary car park • Two new boreholes Total1,547 (medical staff) employed by the County • Chapel for the bereaved • Water treatment plant • Doctors hostels fully equipped • KTRH fence Cadre Before Current • Oxygen plant • Pharmacy store Devolution • Fully equipped Histology and • Doctors Plaza-on going Medical Specialist 2 36 Anatomy labs for the medical • Cancer Centre – upcoming Medical Doctors 10 100 students Nurses 696 1000 Clinical Officers 115 235 Equipment Ambulance paramedics/ 0 28 operators • 2 CT-Scans • Cardiology equipment Medical laboratory 46 92 • 1 MRI • Digital ultrasound technicians • Digital x-ray • Dialyses machines Pharmaceutical tech- 12 36 • Mammogram • ICU/HDU nicians • Laparoscope Medical Engineers 6 20 Total (medical staff) 887 1,547 Sub Counties Theatres The County is doing the projects with development partners (KDSP-Marani) Facilities Activities on going Facility Before Current Status Marani New causality theater block, new mortuary block, Kitchen block devolution Ogembo Mortuary, Kitchen block, Laundry block KTRH 2 6 Kenyenya Equipping of theater block, maternity block, borehole Sub-counties 1 (Ogembo) 5 (Keumbu, Gesusu, The County is now partnering with the World Bank funded Kenya Devolution Support Nyamache, Ken- Programme (KDSP) to upgrade the following health facilities: yenya and Ogembo) • Nduru • Kiamwasi • Iyabe

Kisii insight

The Official Magazine of Kisii County Government

2020 Edition. January 1 2020 - December 31, 2020

Kisii County Governor James Ongwae lays a foundation block for a 250 bed ward at the KTRH. The facility is already in use having been commissioned in 2016. 32 Our economy depends K, on agriculture, which supports the livelihoods of up to 80 per cent of the county’s population. I salute all farmers who have made sure we produce enough for food and substance. - CEC Esman Onsarigo

Chief Officers: Dr. Alphanus Mokaya MS. Naomi Mokaya Esman Onsarigo Dr. Alphanus Mokaya Naomi Mokaya County pushes for new agriculture techniques to enhance food security griculture is the backbone of the diversification from traditional cash crops Enabling legislations county’s economy. Over 70 per into fruits, vegetables and fish farming The department has formulated pieces of cent of the population depend on among others. legislations to support the implementation Aagriculture for their livelihood both As outlined in the Fourth Schedule of the of its mandate: as a source of food as well as income. Constitution of Kenya, 2010, • Kisii County Science and Technology However, this sector is dogged by challenges The following functions and powers are Park Act, 2014 of high population density, outdated farming assigned to counties in matters agriculture: • Kisii County Animal Disease Control practices, poor eating habits and dwindling • Crop and animal husbandry Act, 2013 farm sizes which in turn has drastically • Livestock sale yards • Kisii County Plant Health Act, 2013 affected food security and wealth creation • County abattoirs • Kisii County Abattoirs Act, 2013 for residents. • Plant and disease control • Kisii County Animal Welfare Act, 2013 This, therefore, calls for new and • Fisheries • Kisii County Livestock Act, 2013 innovative ways such as developing high yield crops and animals through research The overall objective of the department Directorate of Crop Production into plant and animal breeding, increased is to transform the sector from subsistence Achievements by this directorate include: fertiliser use where soil fertility has to a modern, innovative and commercially deteriorated, improved rural transport viable industry. infrastructure to ease market access and The department envisions promoting (a) Greenhouse demonstration kits food security and self-reliance through Diminishing land sizes in the county has sustainable agricultural growth for undermined the amenability of traditional employment and wealth creation. agricultural practices due to the incidence of MANDATE STOC L TUR E, I VE AG RICU The sector comprises of the following Focus is on implementing agro- meagre productivity and returns per capita. Directorates: processing, improving availability of quality The county is encouraging the use of agricultural in-puts like seeds, fertiliser intensive means of agricultural husbandry Agriculture; Livestock; Fisheries; such as horticulture and the use of Veterinary Services; Crop and pesticides through subsidies, improving greenhouse farming. As such, a greenhouse Development; Agri-business and agricultural marketing for produce, FISH E RI S & CO - O PE R A TI VE Value Addition; and, Cooperative improving agricultural extension services demonstration centre has been set up at the Development. and improving governance in the area of Kisii Agricultural Training Centre. co-operatives. To promote the uptake of greenhouse Kisii Vision insight To be a modern, innovative, diversified, market-focused and profitable agricultural sector.

mission The Official To promote a highly productive Magazine of agricultural system that is efficient in resource management and Kisii County guarantees food security and Government employment creation.

2020 Edition. January 1 2020 Goal - December 31, To ensure that the County is food 2020 secure and residents are economically empowered. The ICT Lab at ATC - Kisii 33 (g) Construction of avocado factory Avocado is a nutritious fruit cultivated in nearly every home in Kisii County, with great potential for income generation. Unfortunately, farmers have been losing

O PM ENT earnings through middlemen who export the fruit to countries like . To ensure farmers reap maximally from this produce, the county licensed an

K, K, LIV ESTOC , investor to put up an avocado-processing factory in Kisii. The investor established a

D E V L manufacturing plant and exported the first batch of 30,000 tonnes of avocado oil to Mexico for the cosmetic industry. T UR E However, due to environmental concerns arising from the factory’s location in the

T IV ES middle of town, production was stopped. The county has now built a multipurpose, value-addition site at the Agricultural Training Centre and an investor is already taking over operations to set up an avocado processing plant afresh. AGRI C UL O P E RA To sustain the industry, the county has - organised farmers into a co-operative and distributed free seedlings of early-maturing OF Hass variety of avocado that has high oil content for processing.

(h) Construction of a sugar factory Following the successful hosting of D CO A N D

T M ENT the Kisii Entrepreneurship Summit (KES 2016), the county has an agreement with Governor James Ongwae being shown farming techniques during a past ASK show. an investor for the construction of a sugar complex in South Mogirango Sub County. farming among local farmers, a total of yields. 45 greenhouses were initially distributed, The county procured and distributed 5,500 (i) Construction of the Kisii banana

D E PAR one for each ward and the exercise will be tissue culture suckers to farmers in all 45 sustained for maximum coverage across the wards to promote food Security and income factory to deepen value addition county. generation. The Kisii county government will soon unveil the banana processing factory whose F I SHE RI ES construction at the Kisii Agriculture Training (b) Enhanced Extension Services (e) Soil testing and sampling kits Centre (ATC) is already complete. through e-Agriculture Due to declining soil fertility that experts The project is aimed at promoting value Agricultural extension services are attribute to continuous application of addition for the crop value chain to help paramount in ensuring sustainable and fertiliser rich in nitrogen, soil testing is farmers rake in more profit from the crop quality agricultural productivity. recommended to get the right advice on which abundantly grows in the region. However, there are challenges regarding fertilizer to apply, and the type of crops to The banana factory project is a joint effort staffing and lack of equipment, especially in cultivate. Previously, farmers had to take between the European Union and the Kisii the dairy sector. samples to agricultural research centres County Government. To address this challenge, the and waited for days to get results. The European Union granted Kisii department has adopted information and The county procured and distributed soil County around Sh110 million towards the communication technology (ICT) otherwise testing and sampling kits in all 45 wards. development of the banana value chain. known as e-agriculture. Farmers collect samples and have tests On its part, the Kisii County government Technical material has been uploaded conducted at the ward level. committed Sh45 million to help build a to the county’s website and a bulk SMS The kits give fast, accurate and reliable banana-processing factory from scratch. platform is being utilised to enable farmers soil fertility status, especially PH levels. Through the Banana value chain project, Kisii to access extension services on their banana farmers have been supplied with insight mobiles through a digital farm service. (f) Support for the construction of high commercial quality banana suckers The county has established a modern for planting to enhance general crop ICT laboratory at the Agricultural Training Sombogo Tea Factory Productivity. Centre to support this initiative to enhance Tea farmers in the northern reaches At the same time, over 2,000 smallholder sustainable agricultural development and of Kisii County have been experiencing banana producers will be trained on best food security. losses due to distance covered to the tea practices and the county government will processing factories in far-flung areas in the facilitate them to form a producer co- neighbouring . operative society to promote sales. (c) Provision of farm inputs In 2006, farmers affiliated to Kenya Tea The Official Once operational the processing factory To increase food production and boost Development Agency (KTDA) proposed will help address marketing challenges Magazine of incomes among farmers, the county to have a tea processing factory built at Kisii County facing banana producers and other value introduced a subsidised inputs programme Sombogo in Kitutu North but the onus chain actors, by minimising the role of Government through which farmers are issued was on the small holders to raise an initial middlemen and improving sales margins with certified maize seed, planting and commitment premium of Sh30 million for through preservation to increase shelf live. topdressing fertilizer. KTDA to adopt the project. The farmers were To ensure a steady water supply at the 2020 Edition. unable to raise the amount and for over 10 facility, the county government sunk a January 1 2020 years, the project remained a dream. (d) Tissue culture banana 283-metre-deep borehole with a capacity of - December 31, But the county government intervened producing 30,000 litres of water per hour, 2020 The department is promoting the in 2016 and gave the Sh30 million on behalf cultivation of tissue culture banana which is enough to serve the Banana Processing of farmers and Sombogo Tea factory has Plant and the larger Agriculture Training not only early-maturing but also disease- already been built from scratch. resistant with capacity to produce high Centre (ATC) where the factory will be domiciled. 34 Key MILESTONES SINCE 2013 A.I programme Fishing O PM ENT K, K, LIV ESTOC , D E V L

87,543 3 T UR E Calves born since inception of the subsidised A.I Fish pond, piping system, hatchery, holding tanks programme. and office block, construction of Sub County fish

multiplication centre in Boochi Tendere Ward of T IV ES Bomachoge Chache Sub County Animal Disease Control Seedlings AGRI C UL Avocado Farming O P E RA - OF D CO A N D T M ENT D E PAR

17,000 17,000 F I SHE RI ES Hass avocado seedlings distributed Macadamia seedlings distributed to farmers

Banana processing Solar Sh45m 45 Banana processing plant whose construction Solar dryers that have been distributed to 45 wards for currently stands at 90 per cent. fruit and vegetables value addition. Kisii insight

The Official Magazine of Kisii County Government

2020 Edition. January 1 2020 - December 31, 2020

Sombogo Tea Factory during early stages of construction 35 Already, the Agriculture Training Centre Governor James Ongwae joins Avocado processing factory workers has trained a technical staff of 70 officers when he toured the project piloting plant in Kisii town. who will be tasked with the banana value chain implementation.

O PM ENT It is held that banana processing and value addition will greatly minimise challenges farmers face in the hands of middlemen, address increased farmer

K, K, LIV ESTOC , income and reduce banana wastage from the current 32 to 40 per cent to less than 10

D E V L per cent annually. This is because farmers will shift from selling green banana fingers per bunch T UR E to profitably selling in units through the Banana Cooperative, which will help

T IV ES improve the current selling rate of green bananas from Sh8 to Sh14 per kg in average thus increasing farmers’ income.

(j) Revival of the coffee sector

AGRI C UL The coffee sector has over the years been O P E RA

- marred by challenges at the farm level, production, processing and marketing.

OF The county has 22 coffee factories that need to be modernised in order to enhance efficiency and effective-ness. The county commissioned a task force which gave recommendations in areas of value-addition and branding, financial D CO A N D T M ENT management and controls, governance challenges, management of assets and liabilities and production and processing. Most of the recommendations have been implemented and it’s envisaged that the gains will be realised soon. D E PAR

Directorate of Fisheries

F I SHE RI ES With diminishing land sizes, the county is encouraging farmers to diversify their - Equipping of multiplication and following a needs assessment and public agriculture and adopt aquaculture as a demonstration centers at Tendere participation. means to wealth and employment creation - Completion of construction of fish Before we introduced the subsidised A.I and improved nutrition. markets and a cold storage facility at services which go for Sh500 per service, To support this venture, the County the Kisii market farmers paid between Sh2, 500 and Sh3, Government constructed 131 fish ponds and 000 on a single A.I session per cow. distributed free fingerlings to farmers in all The target beneficiaries of the the 45 wards. Directorate of Livestock Development programme are all farmers, especially Through the directorate, the county has those in the low income bracket. Our dream is to see our farmers increase identified suitable sites and encouraged The A.I subsidy drive is aimed at curbing productivity from their livestock and earn farmers to start fish farming. Extension the culture of using bulls for breeding as it more money. officers are in hand to provide technical leads to the spread of genetic diseases and Our dairy farmers faced many challenges advice to farmers. the proliferation of inferior stock through including high cost of semen and Projects by the directorate include; line and in-breeding. exploitation by unscrupulous A.I service - The Fish Multiplication Centre Dairy farmers access the service through providers. - Construction of more fish ponds in all A.I technicians stationed in each of the 45 Kisii the 45 wards We have introduced this service insight A fish vendor at Kisii fish market.

Agriculture The Official CEC Esman Magazine of Onsarigo inspects Kisii County chicks that Government will be distributed to farmer groups across the 2020 Edition. wards January 1 2020 - December 31, 2020

36 O PM ENT K, K, LIV ESTOC , D E V L T UR E T IV ES AGRI C UL O P E RA - OF Coffee Research Foundation team led by Director Dr. Elisha Gitau at Governor James Ongwae’s office. D CO A N D T M ENT D E PAR F I SHE RI ES wards who are available and on call 24 hours on a daily basis. The programme has been received well by farmers although still some want it subsidised further so as to be more affordable. Over 80,000 dairy cattle have been served courtesy of the Kisii County government A.I programme. The department envisions promoting food security and self-reliance through sustainable agricultural growth for employment and wealth creation. The livestock sub-sector employs about 60 per cent of the agricultural labour force in the county. It also contributes significantly to the local economy as a source of food and income. The county launched a dairy Kisii commercialisation programme aimed at insight increasing earnings from the sub-sector. Below are some of the directorate’s Governor James Ongwae exchanging a signed MOU with the Chief Finance achievements: Officer of Kanoria Group, Vinod Vora at the Agricultural Training Centre in Kisii.

(a) Dairy goats mouth disease (14,896 animals were Co-operatives development The county distributed 179 dairy goats vaccinated), lumpy skin disease (7,509 Before 2013, the co-operatives sector cattle were vaccinated) and rabies (214 dogs was plagued by governance issues and low to farmer groups in all the 45 wards. Dairy The Official goats are ideal for farmers with small land vaccinated). earnings. Through an aggressive capacity sizes. building programme initiated by the county, Magazine of (d) Poultry farming the sector has registered tremendous Kisii County To promote poultry farming, the county growth in membership, share capital and Government (b) Improving extension services distributed 11,018 local poultry as breeding assets, and is on its way to recovery. The county procured and distributed stock to over 6,000 farmers. To nurture 20 motorcycles to facilitate the mobility entrepreneurship skills among school of agricultural extension officers at the Agricultural Training Centre 2020 Edition. pupils, the county partnered with Innovation grassroots. The Agricultural Training Centre was January 1 2020 Empowerment Project to distribute 2,250 handed over to the county government in - December 31, hens and cages to school children. A total of (c) Livestock disease control March 2014 through legal notice number 33. 2020 20,000 doses of poultry vaccines were also The county has set aside funds to construct The county successfully conducted issued to farmers. a retreat centre and additional hostels to vaccination campaigns against foot and facilitate the training of farmers and staff. 37 Proposed sugar factory to transform

O PM ENT economy and support livelihoods

K, K, LIV ESTOC , A section of South Mugirango residents during a public participation exercise conducted by the County government and the Senate Committee on Environment D E V L and Agriculture in Moticho Ward, South Mugirango.

T UR E expressed interest in the Sugar and related products industry. Subsequent negotiations culminated in the signing of T IV ES the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Kisii County Government and the Kanoria Group of companies to establish the Sugar complex in Kisii County. A resident, Morara Kenyanya said AGRI C UL

O P E RA cane farmers in the region will reap

- huge benefits from the venture as it will significantly reduce transportation costs OF incurred ferrying the produce to millers in neighouring Migori and Narok Counties. Governor Ongwae noted that cane farming has immense economic potential hence the decision to invest in a sugarcane

D CO A N D factory. T M ENT “The factory will create direct and indirect lans are underway to establish plans to compensate on the excision of employment besides lowering production a multibillion sugar complex in Nyangweta Forest’s 120 acres to build the costs. Our people stand to benefit from Nyangweta in South Mugirango sub- multibillion project. this factory through creation of social Pcounty. “The county government has an elaborate amenities like schools, health centres The catchment area of the Sugar Complex plan to plant, afforest and re-forest the

D E PAR and access roads among other facilities. will include Bonchari, South Mugirango, aggregated forests to improve the forest Current production stands at 245,000 tonnes Bomachoge Borabu, Bomachoge Chache, cover. We have set aside enough resources per year but research shows this can rise Bobasi, Nyaribari and Kitutu Chache. in our forward budget to ensure that the

F I SHE RI ES to 600,000 tonnes annually with modern Farmers currently market their cane areas affected are taken care of. We plan farming methods,” he said. to Sony Sugar, Transmara and Sukari also to gazette the remaining 13 forests to Currently, a total of 3,500 ha is under sugar factories in Narok, Migori and Narok accommodate the excision of Nyangweta,” sugarcane. Annual production stands at counties. said Ongwae. 245,000 tonnes per year with a yield of The sugar complex will be located on a Senator Ongeri vouched for the factory, 75,000 tonnes per ha 120-acre of public land at Nyangweta and saying it will improve the livelihoods of In 2012, 110,000 tonnes was delivered to will consist of three plants including Sugar the people of South Mugirango and the Sony Sugar factory in while Production plant, Ethanol Production plant, region as a whole. “If you look at the social 12,000 tonnes was delivered to Sukari sugar Electricity Co-Generation plant. dimensions of the people of Nyangweta, you factory in South Nyanza. 49,000 tonnes were Dubbed the Kisii Renewable Energy and will conclude that they seriously need this processed as jaggery. Sugar Company Ltd, the investment will project to improve their social welfare. We Research shows tonnage can increase significantly transform the economy of the have enough land to cover for what we will to 600,000,000 kilogrammes per year if County and change the livelihoods of not excise, he said.” farmers embrace modern farming methods only the sugarcane farmers, but also those In February 2016, the Kisii County Sugarcane takes 22 months to mature. of residents of the county at large. Government organised an Investment Currently, farmers incur lots of production Expected benefits include better prices Summit where it showcased trade and costs because they meet transport costs to Kisii for cane delivered, creation of employment investment opportunities to local, regional factories. insight opportunities for the residents, ready and international investors. The factory will reduce transport costs market for farm produce and other It was while at the Summit that hence more income to farmers. products, improvement of infrastructure and Kanoria Group of Companies from India social services among others. The county government will also earn revenue in terms of rent and licence fees. In terms of Corporate Social Sugar factory deal at advanced stage Responsibilities (CSR), the Kisii Renewable Plans to construct a Sugar Complex in devolved unit, adding that it will create over The Official Energy and Sugar Company Ltd is expected to develop playgrounds, roads, construct South Mugirango in Kisii County are at an 10,000 jobs and turn round the economy of Magazine of advanced stage. Kisii County. bridges, ECD centre, upgrade one school, Kisii County The complex will consist of three plants South Mugirango residents had asked offer free extensions services covering food Government including Sugar, Ethanol and Electricity the Government to move fast an ensure crops, fruits, horticulture, dairy farming, Generation production plants. construction of the Sugar Complex. The sugarcane development, upgrade one The Senate Committee on Land, locals further argue that the project would Health Centre to offer comprehensive Environment and Natural Resources having improve the economy of the county and 2020 Edition. medical services, support a youth group to successfully carried out public participation country at large. January 1 2020 develop a tree nursery for distribution at a at the site. The County Government is An Indian investor, Kanoria Group has - December 31, minimal fee among other responsibilities as pursuing the final requisite procedures to already registered the Kisii Renewable 2020 per the needs of the community. establish the complex. Energy and Sugar Factory Company Ltd During a recent citizen participation Governor James Ongwae says the which will operate the sugar Complex. forum, Governor Ongwae and Kisii Senator project is of great significance to the Prof Sam Ongeri detailed how the county 38 Kisii County banks O PM ENT on A.I services to K, K, LIV ESTOC ,

improve herds, spur D E V L

milk production T UR E Hellen Torori, a beneficiary of the A.I subsidised programme admires her two-week old calf at her Birongo home. T IV ES AGRI C UL O P E RA - OF D CO A N D T M ENT D E PAR F I SHE RI ES

Governor James Ongwae flags off A.I kits at ATC

isii farmers are banking on a Dairy farmers access the service through “The uptake of the programme has subsidised livestock Artificial A.I technicians stationed in each of the 45 been impressive and I am sure with time, Insemination (A.I) Programme to ward who are available on call 24 hours on our animals will have quality animals and Kbridge milk shortages and improve a daily basis. more milk for domestic consumption and dairy farming in the county. With about 172, A report prepared by the county’s the market,” he said. Tom Babu of Nyanko Kisii 977 heads of dairy cattle and an annual department of Agriculture, Livestock and village in Nyaribari Chache Constituency insight milk production of 222,498,274kg valued at Fisheries revealed that the programme has said he has used the county service and got Sh10.838 billion, Kisii is one of the dominant been received well by farmers although four calves out of it. players in Kenya’s livestock sector. some still want it subsidised further so as to “It has eased the economic burden that Governor James Ongwae believes the be more affordable. was there because the semen sold by county can benefit more from the sector if “So far, we have served over 80,000 dairy private practitioners was expensive and the farmers fully embrace the A.I services which cattle courtesy of the Kisii A.I programme,” suppliers were few,” he added. are hugely funded by his administration. said Esman Onsarigo who is the County Peter Nyamwamu of Migosi village “Before we introduced the services which Executive Committee member in charge embraced A.I before devolution but says The Official go for Sh500, farmers paid between Sh2,500 of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and it was not easy to raise Sh3, 000 charged Magazine of and Sh3, 000 on a single A.I session per Cooperative Development. previously per cow. Kisii County cow,” Ongwae said. “We expect to feel the impact of this “This is why most farmers went for Government The target beneficiaries of the programme after the calves born out natural insemination using bulls. However, programme are all farmers especially those of this programme mature to calve,” using bulls has many disadvantages such as in the low income group. Onsarigo said, adding that there are spread of breeding diseases and production 2020 Edition. “My administration is committed to investment opportunities in establishing a of poor quality calves,” he said. January 1 2020 improve dairy breeds. I urge farmers to nitrogen plant in Kisii which will also serve Farmers are being discouraged from - December 31, shun the culture of using bulls for breeding neighbouring counties. using bulls for various reasons including the 2020 as it leads to the spread of diseases and Richard Okenagwa, an A.I technician expenses incurred in taming them in their the proliferation of inferior stock,” said attached to Birongo Ward says he serves an already squeezed homesteads as a result of Governor Ongwae. average of 200 animals in a month. population pressure in the county. 39 Relief for O PM ENT avocado K, K, LIV ESTOC ,

D E V L farmers T UR E ... as County T IV ES Government moves to finalise construction of processing plant AGRI C UL O P E RA

- isii County is one of the largest avocado producers in Kenya and the OF county is quickly positioning for the Kinternational market being created following the recent deal signed between Kenya and China. Even as the market prepares to shift to

D CO A N D higher demanding continents, the County T M ENT government kicked off the construction of a processing plant which will offer local farmers a remedy to help minimise their losses and exploitation by middlemen. “The construction of the Avacado

D E PAR Processing Plant funded by the County A farmer inspects healthy avocados of the Hass variety. The fruit is early maturing and has very high oil content government is on course. This could be ready for opening later this year,” said the The society is run by a nine super 27 to 32 per cent and is good for processing

F I SHE RI ES County Executive Member in charge of Agriculture Osman Onsarigo. delegate executive, one per sub-county. into oils such as edible oil, pharmaceutical Mr Onsarigo further indicated that the The county has two main varieties, oil and cosmetic oil. plant,once ready will be at the service of namely indigenous (Kisii land race) variety The county government promotes all the Kisii County avocado farmers with grown in every home and Hass variety which farmers with an annual budget of about Sh enough capacity to accommodate collections was introduced by the county government 9 million to enhance distribution of avocado from the neighbouring counties as well. from 2014. seedlings. The Kisii County Avocado value chain is The indigenous variety has low fat content According to Naomi Mokaya, the organised under Kisii County Avocado Co- of 3 to 4 per cent and is good for the table. County Chief Officer for Agriculture and operative Society. The Hass variety has a high oil content of Cooperative Development Kisii County has County in talks with avocado processing plant investor The County government of Kisii is from indigenous trees which have a low oil engaging a new investor for the avocado content of 3 per cent hence the low prices processing plant. paid to farmers. Kisii The factory will help farmers get a It was then that the County government insight ready market for their produce. introduced the Hass variety of avocado The plant would see farmers avoid which has up to 13 per cent oil content middlemen who now dictate prices for the thus can fetch better prices. highly perishable fruits. Kisii Governor James Ongwae flagged Farmers in the nine-constituency off 30 tonnes of avocado oil destined for agricultural county grow large amounts of Mexico in December 2014. avocadoes, many of which go to waste for Fernando Marques. Director Avofresh Processors Ltd. He said the avocado produced in the lack of markets. The Official seed. They have a creamy texture and county annually is sufficient to run the Kisii is one of the largest producers of processing plant at 80 tonnes a day. Magazine of great taste. They also have a distinctive the avocado fruit in the country. Most of skin that turns from green to purplish- The success of the venture was part of Kisii County the fruit is normally consumed at home black when ripe. efforts by the County government to add Government or sold to traders in an informal system In 2013, the County government value to avocado produciton and improve whereby brokers dominate the market. licensed a private factory run by farmer’s earnings. This leads to exploitation of the farmers Australian firm Old Land Trade Company. According to the Horticultural Crops 2020 Edition. especially during the peak production It processed 80 tonnes daily and Development Authority (HCDA)’s statistics January 1 2020 period. employed 55 workers. Farmers delivered in 2012, Kisii County was ranked second - December 31, Most Kisii farmers mainly deal with the crop at Sh5 per kilo with the oil nationally as the largest avocado producer 2020 the Golden Hass variety, which produces produced sold to the cosmetic industry in in both volume and value after Nyamira all-year round. Hass Avocados are oval South America. County with 41,927 tonnes worth Sh1.5 shaped, with a small to medium sized Most of the fruit delivered then was billion. 40 809,683 avocado fruit trees,” the CO said. The idea of creating a processing plant was put under test in 2016 when a private Sweet success investor from was invited to kick-

start an initiative that was intended to help for bee farmers O PM ENT reduce wastages incurred by local farmers. “In October the same year the county as they rake in flagged 30,000 kilogrammes of cosmetic oil to Mexico a move that was clearly a Sh100.9 million K, LIV ESTOC , milestone,” said Ms Mokaya.

The investor did not survive due to D E V L the unrealistic lease rates for the factory premises in Kisii town set by a private landlord. T UR E Said Mokaya: “The lease rates shot up

from Sh80,000 to Sh520,000 per month T IV ES leading to the county opting to construct a Go-Down to support any investor interested in this sector.” The new factory is being constructed at the Agricultural Training Centre in Kisii AGRI C UL town. O P E RA It’s expected that this year, the avocado -

processing will resume as a potential OF investor to drive the agro-processing initiative to the next level has been found. In 2019 alone about six potential investors in the avocado value chain held different engagements with the government over D CO A N D

processing. T M ENT Before the partnership with the Ausi- investor the farmers were selling a 150 kg bag of avocado fruits at between Sh 250 and Sh450. But the price was stabilised as the private

investor set in, leading to shift in prices to D E PAR Sh900 for same 150kg bag of avocadoes. 269,683 avocado farmers. In order to be sure about exports of the The county production potential is commodities to be put under processing F I SHE RI ES projected at 323,000,000 kilogrammes in Kisii including avocado, the County annually with net value of Sh2 billion government is also in negotiation with the annually in direct sales to the local markets Export Promotion and Branding Agency to Kisii County produces a total of and middlemen who transport to distant establish an export promotion zone in Kisii. 100,850 kg of honey annually valued towns. This would help take the county a at Sh100.9 million. “In terms of acreage the county has 1,600 step higher in addressing challenges in Statistics from livestock hectares under avocado with around agricultural produce destined for export. production department also indicate that about 40,000 kg of bee wax is also produced yearly worth Sh12 million. There are 170 active farm groups involved in beekeeping activities in the county who are supported by the County government in their farming. The County director in charge of Livestock Andrew Nyamwaro Kisii disclosed that the county has given insight out honey extractors, langstroth hives and Kenya Top Bar Hives among other bee hive tools essential for beekeeping. “Kisii has a huge production potential because of vegetation cover. Trees and flowers in the area are favourable in beekeeping. The Official Mr Nyamwaro noted that there is Magazine of an upward trend in bee production Kisii County since devolution but expressed fear Government that the increased use of pesticide by farmers is leading to deaths of the honeybees. “We advise our farmers to have 2020 Edition. apiaries (a place where bees are January 1 2020 kept) in woodlands, hilltops and - December 31, along the rivers away from homes 2020 and where there are little activities. Avofresh Processors Ltd Dirtector Fernando Marques with Finance and Economic Planning CEC Moses Onderi display a signed MoU for starting an avocado processing plant. 41 O PM ENT K, K, LIV ESTOC , D E V L T UR E T IV ES

The nearly complete Kisii County Banana Factory. It will boost banana farming by providing readly AGRI C UL

O P E RA available market for the commodity. -

OF member for Agriculture Esman Onsarigo said the project that has benefited from a grant from the European Union, is expected to increase profitability of the highly perishable commodity that is widely common in the county. D CO A N D

T M ENT He said that the European Union has granted Kisii County around Sh110million towards the development of the banana value chain. The County government,Onsarigo said has also set aside Sh45 million to help build

D E PAR a banana-processing factory from scratch. “The issue of farmers selling banana bunches at a loss will be a thing of the

F I SHE RI ES Banana factory set to past since the proposed factory will ensure that bananas are processed to fetch more returns,”he said. roar to life as Sh156m Construction works for the factory at the Kisii Agriculture training Centre (ATC) is at advanced stage of completion. European Union-funded Onsarigo said that according to the concept development for the industry, the Kisii banana value chain project will involve plant nears completion the establishment of 135 green banana crop collection centres in the county. “Through the project, banana farmers new banana processing plant is set In an idea aimed at promoting value will also be supplied with high commercial to be unveiled by the Kisii County addition for the crop value chain the move is quality banana suckers for planting to government within the year in a expected to help farmers rake in more profit enhance general crop productivity”, said the game-changing move aimed at from the crop which abundantly grows in A minister. taking banana farming and production in the region. In preparations for commencement of Kisii to the next level. The County Executive Committee Kisii works at the factory, the county government insight had sunk a 283-metre-deep borehole with a capacity of producing 30,000 litres of water per hour, enough to serve the Banana Processing Plant. Already, according to Onsarigo, Agriculture Training Centre has trained a technical staff of 70 officers who will be The Official tasked with the project implementation. It is held that the factory will greatly Magazine of minimise challenges farmers face in the Kisii County hands of middlemen, address increased Government farmer income and reduce banana wastage from the current 32 to 40 per cent to less than 10 per cent annually. 2020 Edition. This is because, in the programme, January 1 2020 farmers will shift from selling green banana - December 31, fingers per bunch to profitably selling in 2020 units through the Banana Cooperative which will help improve the current selling rate of Devolution Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa lays a foundation block for the construction of a banana factory green bananas from Sh8 to Sh14 per kilo on in Kisii County, as Governor James Ongwae (left) and Devolution Principal Secretary Charles Sunkuli looks on. average, thus increasing farmer income. 42 Farmers reap big as County bank on banana value chain to boost profits O PM ENT K, K, LIV ESTOC , D E V L T UR E T IV ES AGRI C UL O P E RA - OF D CO A N D T M ENT D E PAR F I SHE RI ES

he Kisii County government will A section farmers during the disbursement of the first tranche of Sh22 million to selected organized farmer groups through the NARIGP programme. continue supporting efforts by the National Agricultural-Rural Inclusive Growth Project (NARIGP) aimed at Bogetaorio, Bosoti Sengera, Majoge East, T Boochi Tendere, Bogetenga, Boikanga, increasing productivity and profitability of banana crop production. Chitago Borabu, Getenga, Bogiakumu, According to Governor James Bomorenda, Bomariba, Marani, Sensi, Ongwae Narigp is already rolling out Monyerero, Kiamokama, Gesusu and projects in 20 wards spread across six Nyamasibi. sub-counties including Bonchari, Kitutu “All our nine sub-counties are arable with Chache North,Nyaribari, Masaba, Bobasi, high agricultural potential and the learning Bomachoge Chache and South Mugirango. experience from the project focal areas will The increased productivity in the ultimately spread out to benefit farmers agriculture sector is a step towards in the entire county and beyond,” said the enhancing food security in the county. Governor. Kisii Narigp has conducted several Kisii County is known for banana insight stakeholder forums in the county to identify production. Over 5,000 hectares have been challenges, find ideas and solutions to make collectively put under banana plantation the banana value chain competitive and through individual farmer initiatives with a commercialise the crop. production rate of 19 tonnes of green fingers “The role of the stakeholders platform is per hectare. to bring together farmer representatives, County Executive Committee (CEC) agriculture researchers, farm input member in charge of Agriculture Esman suppliers, producers, agro dealers, Onsarigo disclosed that in 2017 alone, over The Official processors, marketers, policy makers, 95 tonnes of green fingers were produced in Magazine of regulators and other development partners Wine made from banana juice. Kisii, fetching farmers over Sh1.9 billion in Kisii County to consult, exchange views and put forward direct sales. Government “However, due to the perishability of viable solutions to address challenges involving the World Bank, International bananas, farmers have always fallen prey facing the banana value chain,” Ongwae said Development Association (IDA), Ministry of to middlemen who broker green bunches at during a Narigp forum early last year. Agriculture and 21 County governments, 2020 Edition. low prices, disadvantaging the farmer,” he Governor Ongwae disclosed that the is aimed at improving the livelihoods of January 1 2020 said. County government has been engaging with farmers through enhanced and sustainable - December 31, Said Mr Onsarigo: “This calls for value farmers dealing in banana production with high end production in horticulture, poultry 2020 addition and more organised ways of storage a view to assisting them undertake best and livestock. and marketing to give farmers value for their practices in farming to boost production. The wards covered by the project produce.” Narigp project, a concerted effort include Masige East, Bassi Central, Bassi 43 Governor banks on Coffee

O PM ENT Research officials in bid to

K, K, LIV ESTOC , give cash crop new lifeline he Kisii County government through the economically sustainable for players engaged D E V L department of Agriculture is working in its production,” said the governor. closely with all coffee societies through The governor said agriculture is a devolved T UR E Tthe Gusii Farmers Coffee Union to function, adding that for counties like Kisii energise the coffee market. where residents rely on crop production

T IV ES Working with the National Government, the as their lifeline, institutions such as Coffee County Government under the leadership of Research Institute come in handy. Governor James Ongwae is in the process of Ongwae indicated that through the waiving debts owed by coffee societies where a department of Agriculture, the county is total of 22 societies are expected to benefit. sensitising farmers on how to increase coffee “To rejuvenate the cash crop, my crop production per bush from the current AGRI C UL

O P E RA administration has brought together all the five kilogrammes to 28 kilogrammes annually,

- 22 coffee societies through the Gusii Farmers especially through promoting and enhancing Coffee Union for the purpose of boosting the planting of 11 variety and Batian. OF the coffee market approach. The collective The varieties are resistant to Coffee Berry approach is poised to ameliorate agro- Disease and Coffee Leaf Rust, and have very processing, branding and marketing in the good bean and cup quality. coffee sector once touted as the black gold. “Kisii has the sweetest type of coffee. Its The approach is eliminating loss of produce, flavour and aroma are unmatched and this

D CO A N D thefts and exploitation by middlemen,” said attracts good prices at the market. We are in T M ENT Ongwae. the process of adding value to the crop thus In 2019, Governor Ongwae held talks with need to scout for sustainable partnerships that officials from the Coffee Research Institute led will enable farmers improve on their earnings by Director Coffee Research Institute, State which will have a bearing on improved Department for Agricultural Research Dr production,” Ongwae said.

D E PAR Elisha Gitau to discuss revival of coffee farming Gitau noted that for farmers to get better in the county. returns, they need to replace their aged The governor said his administration is bushes of coffee trees with new ones.

F I SHE RI ES committed to revamping the coffee sector, to The director said returns from the cash enable farmers reap maximum benefits from crop are highest in the country despite the the crop. The governor expressed the need to challenges bedeviling the sector. establish new practices that will help farmers The County Chief Officer in charge of to profitably engage in coffee production. Agriculture and Co-operative Development “Coffee is a major cash crop in this area. My Naum Mokaya said that the department is administration is in the process of revamping ensuring management of society governance Healthy berries. The county government is working the coffee sector to make it more vibrant and issues are done according to the law. towards reviving the profitable coffee sector

County mulls ways to alleviate food insecurity

Kisii County has partnered with the embrace aqua-culture so as to rake in by Danida beginning early this year. Kisii International Fund for Agriculture profits. The programme will deal with insight and Development (IFAD) to boost food Fish farming as an alternative enhancing implementation of sanitary production. profitable venture for farmers in the and phytosanitary requirements in IFAD is set to roll out an Aqua-culture region which experiences favourable rain food production and handling. This will Development Programme in Kisii distribution the year round. enable access to international markets County this year to help increase fish “I urge farmers to take advantage of at premium prices, while building the production and enhance food security in the good rainfall distribution in the area capacity of various value chain actors. the country besides creating employment and set up fish ponds in their farms. This The ministry in charge has already opportunities. venture takes minimal space but the held discussions on engagement The Official Agriculture Executive Esman Onsarigo returns are assured,” said the CEC. rules with the donors to allow its Magazine of said the project, slated to commence He revealed that Kisii County is among commencement. Kisii County in March, will provide a window of 15 counties selected to implement the “In the Food and Nutrition Security Government opportunity to enhance the value addition Aqua-culture Development Programme pillar of the President’s Big Four in fish production. in a deal sealed on the side lines of the agenda, Kisii has already submitted and Mr Onsarigo said that the move to international blue economy conference agreed with the National Agriculture 2020 Edition. enhance fish production will not only recently held in Nairobi. Coordination Committee under the January 1 2020 ensure food and nutrition sufficiency, but At the same time, the Agriculture CEC Ministry of Agriculture on the value - December 31, also avail surplus harvest for export. said Kisii County is among 13 counties chain and drawn strategic interventions 2020 He urged farmers in the county to selected to implement a Food Safety to ensure the food security agenda is a diversify their farming activities and Programme (AgriFi Programme) funded reality in the country”, Onsarigo said. 44 Fish farmers

to reap big as O PM ENT IFAD pledges to inject cash K, LIV ESTOC , D E V L

ince inception, the Kisii County has produced 159 tonnes of fish T UR E valued at Sh48 million. The county has over 2,170 S T IV ES active farmers who own 2,297 operational fish ponds covering approximately 630,611 service area. The county is among 15 devolved units that will benefit from an AGRI C UL

eight-year Aquaculture Business O P E RA

Development Programme to be funded - by International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) because of its OF great potential in fish farming. According to the director in charge of Fisheries Edwin Mugo, exploitation and utilisation of fish farming in the county

is increasingly becoming a viable CO A N D alternative as well as a complement T M ENT to crop and livestock farming in the county. “Due to lack of major water bodies for capture fisheries as in natural

water bodies, adoption of fish ponds is D E PAR the only viable way for fish farming in the county. We are sensitising farmers

to take to fish farming by use of ponds F I SHE RI ES which require only a small portion of land. Mr Mugo called on residents to embrace fish farming and consume high amount of fish, saying the county conducts “eat more fish campaigns” because of its nutritional values. The campaign aims at increasing dietary intake of fish, especially in children, pregnant and lactating mothers as it is rich in omega-3 fatty acids essential for brain development. “Fish meat is easily digestible compared to other meats, well endowed with macronutrients and the 10 essential amino acids in equal proportions,” he said, adding that Kisii two meals of fish per week is highly insight recommended. He asserted that fish farming significantly contributes to food and nutritional security in the country. The construction of a fresh fish market and cold storage facility is nearly complete. The market will offer modern facility for preservation and The Official sale of fish. Magazine of The county has two fish Kisii County multiplication and demonstration Government centres, one in Kisii town and another one in Ogembo town. “We intend to have deep freezers 2020 Edition. for clustered groups in every sub- January 1 2020 county. The county government is - December 31, also constructing an additional one in 2020 Governor James Ongwae shows Land CS Farida Karoney some products Bonchari sub-county,” said the director. made in Kisii. Key among the goods was a coffee sachet which was grown, The initiative will enhance an harvested and value-added within the county. enabling environment for fish trade in an hygienic environment. 45 Study to shore up earnings, O PM ENT consumption of vegetables

K, K, LIV ESTOC , he Mombasa, Eldoret among other Ms Tanui said that the two Agency for International regions,” said Mr Ongwae. months study will also identify

D E V L Development (USAID) is The governor, who was and sketch trade routes, main Tconducting a study on accompanied by his deputy marketing corridors, main the African Leafy Vegetables Joash Maangi, regretted that market catchment areas as T UR E (ALVs) in Kisii County to boost vegetables like Managu (African well as sourcing areas during production and consumption. night shade) and Chinsaga (Spider vegetable peak and off-peak

T IV ES Implemented by the Kenya flower) are produced in plenty in season. Crops and Dairy Market System Kisii but farmers are exploited “The study will describe the Activity (KCDMS), the study will by middlemen who buy at throw key market outcomes in terms also address some aspects of away prices. of seasonal price variations, value addition and outline the “The study will be a turning annual market demand, deficits actual potential of vegetable point for our farmers especially and potential within the main AGRI C UL O P E RA varieties in the county. the mama mbogas as it will strategic wholesale markets - The study follows a request save them from the hands of around the county as well as by Governor James Ongwae middlemen,” said Mr Ongwae main destination markets,” OF who sought an inventory for adding that it will identify and she said. the distribution of various analyse emerging opportunities The County Executive vegetables and their production for private sector investments. Committee member (CEC) levels. The governor is rooting for in charge of Agriculture, Speaking in his office when large production of indigenous Livestock, Fisheries and

D CO A N D he met a team from KCDMS vegetables for export to foreign Cooperative Development T M ENT led by Beatrice Tanui last markets to enable local farmers Esman Onsarigo said primary September, Mr Ongwae said to make better returns. data will be collected from the study was long overdue “The Kisii Community has small scale farmers, traders, as it will show the volume of a large population of Kenyans key informants including vegetables produced, what is living in the . I know that relevant government ministries,

D E PAR consumed at the source and if we are able to tap this market, businessmen as well as the percentage that goes to the farmers investing in indigenous consumers. market. vegetables will make good The CEC said his department isii county government

F I SHE RI ES “The study will provide money,” he said. is working with KCDMS to has invested in value a deep assessment of ALVs The Governor pointed out ensure successful completion addition initiatives production, marketing systems that they will analyse the supply of the study which will address Kto ensure various with emphasis on demand and and demand factors and identify challenges facing farmers producers benefit fully from market linkages as well as key trends and opportunities for specializing in ALVs. their ventures. destination markets in Nairobi, enhanced efficiency and quality. Most of these initiatives are geared towards improving incomes for rural communities especially those involved in agriculture. Most Kisii residents, due to limited land sizes, practice subsistence farming. Most produce is sold locally with middlemen taking advantage of farmers’ desperation, exploiting them in Kisii the process. insight However, Kisii Governor James Ongwae has always emphasized the need to make agriculture a lucrative venture that will positively transform livelihoods. Already, various farmer groups have received funding to The Official the tune of Sh22 million under Magazine of the National Agricultural Kisii County Inclusive Growth Project Government (NARIGP) to boost production. In partnership with the National Government, 2020 Edition. NARIGP is investing in small January 1 2020 scale holder farmers, in a - December 31, project that aims to increase 2020 productivity and profitability of rural targeted communities in selected counties. In the event of a crisis, they provide 46 O PM ENT K, K, LIV ESTOC , D E V L T UR E T IV ES AGRI C UL O P E RA -

World Bank-funded OF project steers value D CO A N D addition mindset in T M ENT subsistent farming D E PAR effective response to the affected Getenga,Chitago Borabu, NARIGP is linking rural Community institutions farmers. Bassi Central, Bassi Chache, smallholder farmers Common include Community Driven The World Bank funded Bassi Bogetaorio, Masige Interest Groups (CIGs) and Development Committees, F I SHE RI ES project is currently being East, Nyamasibi, Gesusu, Vulnerable and Marginalized Social Accountability Integrity implemented in 21 counties Kiamokama, Sensi, Monyerero, Groups (VMGs)which are Committee and Common with Kisii being one of the Marani, Majoge Bassi, Bosoti organised along selected Interest Groups which are value beneficiaries. Sengera, and Boochi Tendere. priority value chains to markets. chain based. Agriculture County Executive The selected organised NARIGP’s components It also supports community Member Mr Esman Onsarigo farmer groups in these wards include supporting community investments by offering said a total of 143 projects in 20 are benefitting from the five driven development, grants along the investment wards have been funded to a -year programme that started strengthening producer windows and seeks to increase tune of Sh56 million. in 2016. organizations and value chain agricultural productivity and “Today I am happy that Onsaringo urged the development, supporting county profitability of targeted rural cheques worth Sh22,494,929 beneficiaries to diligently led community development communities in selected have been issued, being the utilise the funds so as to attract and project coordination and counties in Kenya. first tranche in the five-year further funding to the county. management. Farmers across the wards initiative, which aims to increase The project uses value chain The project strengthens have also been trained on productivity and profitability approach and Kisii is targeting community level institutions proposal development. of rural targeted communities the production value chain of through trainings that enable Food security is one of the Kisii and vulnerable groups,” he said bananas, dairy cows (milk), the institutions to plan, Agenda Four items prioritized by insight during a recent farmers forum. chicken, and local vegetables implement, manage and President Uhuru Kenyatta. This translates to 40 per cent for support from the project. monitor the community micro- of the total NARIGP contribution. The major principal of projects. The second tranche, 60 per cent, will be given depending on how well the groups utilise the first tranche. “I wish to thank our The Official development partner for Magazine of choosing Kisii County among the Kisii County 21 counties implementing the project,” said Mr Onsarigo. Government In Kisii, the programme is operational in six sub-counties namely Bonchari, South 2020 Edition. Mugirango, Bobasi, Nyaribari January 1 2020 Masaba, Kitutu Chache North - December 31, and Bomachoge Chache. 2020 The wards to benefit are; Governor Dr and Governor Bogiakumu, Bomorenda, James Ongwae interact with fruits vendors in Kisii town Bomariba, Bogetenga, recently. 47 PYRETHRUM O PM ENT Residents urged to rejoin pyrethrum gravy-train

Kisii residents have been to work. Nyeri, , Trans Nzoia, produces a paltry two per cent K, K, LIV ESTOC , asked to invest in the once “Plans to have pyrethrum Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet of the world demand. lucrative pyrethrum farming. farming reinitiated in Kisii and West Pokot. In its heyday, some 200,000 D E V L Farmers have shown is on top gear. We believe by Others are Nakuru, Nandi, farmers directly earned a excitement after receiving working with partners like the Baringo, Laikipia, Narok, living from the crop, which

T UR E reports that the county USaid and the US, we will get Kericho, Bomet , Nyamira, also indirectly supported government plans to revive there,” said Lumumba. , Murang’a, about four million people. pyrethrum farming in the Recently, in the county’s Kirinyaga and Meru. Today only 7,000 farmers T IV ES region. stride towards the venture, In the 1980s and early cultivate the crop, earning an They are now urging the Governor James Ongwae held 1990s, Kenya was the insignificant $147,000 (Sh15 devolved unit to move with talks with the new US envoy epicentre of the world’s million) annually. speed to implement the plan. to Kenya Ambassador Kyle pyrethrum sector. Kenya has the potential Pyrethrum is daisy like in McCarter at the US embassy Being a cash crop that to produce and process

AGRI C UL appearance, with white ray in Nairobi. is always on high demand 20,000 metric tonnes (MT) of O P E RA flowers surrounding a yellow “We deliberated on a because of its use in the - pyrethrum flowers to earn core. The blue-gray leaves number of bilateral issues production of natural Sh7.5 billion for farmers OF are deeply divided. The plant touching on development. My insecticides and pesticides per year and Sh5.8 billion in is important commercially mission to the embassy put while its by product, pyrethrin, foreign exchange from refined as a source of pyrethrin. focus on the revival of the dead is used in the manufacture extract alone. Tanacetum cinerariifolium, as pyrethrum sector,” he said. of medical and personal care With direct or indirect it is referred scientifically, was In Kenya, total production products, Kenya was the linkage to the crop, that best the main source of livelihood across the 18 pyrethrum world’s leading producer.

D CO A N D grows at an altitude of 1,700 to T M ENT for most Kisii residents from growing counties, stands at a The country used to 2,900 metres above sea level, the 1960’s to 2006. mere 350 tonnes annually. produce 18,000 tonnes or it can provide a livelihood to County Secretary Patrick The situation was different more than 80 per cent of three million people. Lumumba said the county has during its glory days. world demand and earned been mobilising resources to Pyrethrum-growing $200 million (Sh20.3 billion) in get pyrethrum farmers back counties include Nyandarua, forex annually. Today, Kenya D E PAR

Sombogo Tea Factory which is nearly complete. F I SHE RI ES

KTDA, County funded Sombogo Kisii insight Factory set to be operational The Sombogo Tea Factory, (KTDA) decided to open a administration listened to the whose establishment was satellite factory at Sombogo plight of farmers and paid the facilitated by the Kisii County in Kitutu Chache North and amount which enabled KTDA Government and the Kenya tasked farmers to raise an start the construction of the Tea Development Authority initial commitment premium of factory,” said Mr Ongwae. The Official (KTDA) is expected to kick off Sh30 million before the project Mr Ongwae regretted that with the county government, operations soon. The factory could start. Unfortunately, since independence, farmers distributed seedlings to farmers Magazine of whose construction is almost farmers were unable to raise in the affected areas have Kisii County in the lower region in April completed is located in Kitutu the funds and for more than been getting poor returns last year. The distribution Government Chache North. Thousands of 10 years, the project remained from the major cash crop is an ongoing activity to small-scale tea farmers in a dream until the Kisii County in the country because of ensure sustainability of the the northern regions of Kisii Government under the wastage of the produce as a much-awaited factory,” said 2020 Edition. County, specifically Kitutu leadership of Governor James result of transport delays and County Executive Committee January 1 2020 Chache North, Kitutu Chache Ongwae intervened and paid inflation of operational costs. (CEC) member in charge of - December 31, South and Bonchari Sub-County the Sh30 million. “The onus The county government is Agriculture Esman Onsarigo. 2020 have been selling their crop to was on farmers to raise an mobilising farmers to increase On completion, the factory the distant Tombe factory in initial commitment premium of acreas under tea to sustain and will also economically open up Nyamira County. In 2005, Kenya Sh30 million before the agency surpass the needs of the factory. the area and create employment Tea Development Authority could pick up the project. My “KTDA, in collaboration for more than 200 youths. 48

among other devolved functions. Kisii County is among the first counties to recruit ECDE teachers and has stepped County up in-service training for its 950 ECDE care Executive givers. The training, partly organised in Committee conjunction with the Aga Khan Foundation, Member is meant to build the capacity of ECDE (CECM): care givers so that they are well equipped Amos with skills to handle the learning needs of Andama children. The programme also aims at improving the quality of ECDE and bringing uniformity Chief to all 703 centres across the county. Officer: Among the key areas the programme focussed on was the health of learners Dr. Doris which adversely affects them at the early Nyokang’i stages of education. At the County level the ECDE programme Amos Andama Dr. Doris Nyokang’i officers are responsible for all activities and resources related to ECDE at sub-county level. The provision of ECDE services involve MANDATE Training to households, community and government According to the Fourth Schedule of efforts in the holistic development of the Constitution, County Governments children between zero and five years. are responsible for pre-primary, Access, equity and quality of education village polytechnics, home craft spur ECDE centres and childcare facilities. The services in this sub-sector are constrained education sector has not, therefore, by factors such as inadequate trained been fully devolved because basic teachers and care givers, inadequate standards, number of ECD centres, limited availability education (primary and secondary), tertiary and university education of teaching and learning materials, low have been retained by the National morale of teaching staff due to poor Government. This notwithstanding, equity and remuneration, poor enforcement of ECD the County Government, in line standards and inadequate health support with provisions of Chapter 55 of the services. Constitution, has taken the necessary Apart from employing ECDE teachers, measures, including affirmative action accessibility the education department has despite programmes, to ensure that our the challenges endeavoured to improve youth access relevant education and arly Childhood Development infrastructure in all ECDE centres across training. Education (ECDE) is the foundation the County. The sector comprises of two of all learning. There is a very The department has managed to directorates: Early Childhood Eclose relationship between ECDE complete the construction of pit latrines in Development (ECD) and Vocational and school completion rates. 16 ECDE centres and others are in progress. Training. It also provides education The importance of ECDE as a key The county has constructed 180 ECDE support through disbursement of milestone in the development of a classrooms which are currently in use and E DUC A TION , LAB OUR ND bursaries to needy students. personality cannot be gainsaid. With the many more are set for completion. The The department has come up with advent and the implementation of the county has a total of 703 ECD centres and MA N P OW E R D EVEL O PME NT policies on registration of ECDE Constitution of Kenya (2010), counties has employed ECDE assistant directors for centres, management of ECD heralded the management of pre-schools the programme. teachers, management of village polytechnics, registration of village AFTER polytechnics and; quality assurance and standards in ECDE centres and village polytechnics. Kisii insight Enabling legislationS The department has formulated legislations to support the implementation of its mandate: • Kisii County Bursaries Fund The Official (Amendment) Act, 2016 Magazine of • Kisii County Village Polytechnics Kisii County Management Act, 2015 Government BEFORE • Kisii County Childcare Facilities Bill, 2014 2020 Edition. • Kisii County Bursaries Fund, 2014 January 1 2020 - December 31, 2020

The newly build Kiabugesi ECD classroom by the county government Kiabugesi ECD classroom in Magenchr Ward before devolution. 49 Youths now urged Brainstorming session aid to embrace, tap O PM ENT , LA UR , BO technical education public school enrollment o help improve education • Procured and distributed The Kisii County Government is working in standards in the county in collaboration with the United States Agency Competence Based Curriculum accordance with His Excellency for International Development (USAid) on a (CBC) T I ON programme to address unemployment among the Governor’s manifesto, a These interventions have resulted in A T the youth in the county. needs assessment was conducted in the a tremendous increase in enrolment County Secretary Patrick Lumumba education sector in the formative stages in ECDE centers within public primary has said the County Government will enter of the county government. The study schools, which stands at 79,182, into a partnership with the USAID funded revealed that there were financial and compared to 64,440 previously. The Kenya Youth Employment and Skills (KYES) structural constraints which burdened quality of learning has also improved,

E DU C programme that will see thousands of youths parents making basic education given that the current teacher-student empowered with various skills and later inaccessible to needy students. As a ratio has advanced from 1:46 to 1:38. access to employment opportunities in the result, the county organised an education

OF private sector. stakeholder’s conference in Kisii to Before After Addressing various partners, including the deliberate the way forward. Devolution Devolution National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) Following the successful conference, ECDE Centres - 703 and Kenya Youth Employment Opportunities a taskforce was formed to oversee the Project (KYEOP), Lumumba said the implementation of the recommendations. ECDE teachers - 965 programme targets more than 25,000 youths

T M ENT across the county.

D MA N P OWEA N D E V L R “We are incorporating several private Bursary for students in Directorate of Vocational sector organisations and the business Secondary and Tertiary community in this project that is aimed at Education milestones institutions To support this sub-sector, the improving youth employability. Our youths One of the major findings from the will be trained, offered workplace internship Education Stakeholders Conference was county has invested in the construction

D E PAR and later employment opportunities. This that due to the prevailing poverty in the of modern classrooms and workshops. will drastically reduce unemployment in the The goal is to have at least one modern county,” said Lumumba. county, many bright students were unable He said the collaboration will promote to continue with their education, thus Vocational Training Centre (VTC) in each youth empowerment and transform Vocational denying the county human capital that is of the 45 wards. Education and Small Enterprise sectors into crucial for development. The directorate has also constructed This became the basis for the highly competitive sectors delivering new several youth polytechnics. employment opportunities to the youth. establishment of the County Bursary “The County Government, under the Fund whose prime objective is to boost leadership of Governor James Ongwae, is transition rates and promote retention in Labour and Manpower supporting Vocational Training Centers (VTCs) the county’s school system. So far, Sh650 The county has also distributed tools to adopt competency-based education and million has been disbursed equally to and equipment to 31 VTCs, including training curriculum in line with education each ward benefitting 160,000 learners. electrical equipment, sewing machines reforms. The county will continue to give and hairdressing equipment. The priority and provide training and linkages to county has employed 206 instructors on youth to access government procurement permanent and pensionable terms. opportunities,” said Lumumba. Before After Bursary To improve supervision of curriculum In return, businesses, hotels, colleges, Devolution Devolution and other organisations would provide jobs instruction in VTCs, the county has No. of employed quality assurance and to the youth while the county government will - 160,000 continue to provide an enabling environment students standards officers. for businesses to thrive. It has also recruited vocational training Lumumba said that youths with vocational Amount - 650,000,000 instructors and equipped them with the skills like plumbing, masonry and carpentry relevant equipment for the learners. are more likely to get employment Directorate of Early Childhood opportunities than graduates and regretted Development Education (ECDE) Before After Kisii that many youths are still banking on white- collar jobs only. Before devolution, most parents devolution devolution insight The beneficiaries include the business bore the brunt of paying salaries for Vocational 39 58 community, contractors, the civil society, youth ECDE teachers and establishment of Training Centres associations and training institutions within infrastructure. As a result, enrolment the county. was low. Workshops 39 93 To increase enrolment, expand and KYEOP County Coordinator Martha Otieno Instructors - 270 said the partnership will provide youths with improve quality early years education, the Registration of the much needed work experience as well as county has: 0 50 address skills mismatch. • Constructed 180 ECD classrooms VCTs with IVETA The Official “Currently, youths across the county who throughout the county Magazine of applied for the trainings are being imparted • Initiated construction works on a Future Plans Kisii County with life, core business, technical and jobs further 263 class-rooms • The county will implement a specific skills,” she said. Government • Recruited and posted 965 ECDE business model approach in the USAID KYES County Project Coordinator teachers to public schools in all 45 David Rotich said the partnership will promote youth polytechnics to guarantee wards sustainability in the management of youth access to quality vocational training that • Procured and distributed play 2020 Edition. meets market demand besides promoting the institutions equipment, including swings, slides January 1 2020 partnership linkages that will enhance • Plans are underway to incorporate - December 31, resource leveraging to support youth skill and see-saws e-learning for the ECDE and 2020 development and employability. • Partnered with The Aga Khan vocational training centres. Foundation to help build capacity for ECDE teachers to improve quality in education. 50 Brainstorming session aid Key MILESTONES SINCE 2013 O PM ENT

public school enrollment LA UR , BO T I ON A disbursedSh135 to 45 Wards (Sh3 million per ward) as bursarymillion that benefited 39,026 needy students in FY2018/19. E DU C OF T M ENT D MA N P OWEA N D E V L R D E PAR Conditional GrantsSh52 disbursed to 50 Vocational Institutions million with the County received the highest grant in FY2018/19. Digital ICT Centres Pre-Primary Teacher Training

The Department managed to: a) train all sub-county officers on competence based 3 modern Digital ICT Centers estab- curriculum and learning materials development lished in the following VTCs b) one Hundred and Twelve pre-primary Board of a) nyaore Vocational Training Centre Management members and head teachers were b) Keumbu Vocational Training sensitised on CBC Center c) two Hundred pre-primary teachers have been trained c) nyaburumbasi Vocational Training on CBC and learning material development to improve Center learning outcomes. Bursaries County allocations for the year 2019 Universities Sh 14,779,500 Vocational training 650m Colleges Sh 11,577,000 Bursaries distrib- Secondary Schools Sh106,545,500 uted since 2013 Vocational Training Centers Sh 2,098,000 58 Vocational training centres benefitted from distribution of Kisii tools and equipment insight

Before devolution After devolution Vocational Training Centre 39 58 Workshops 39 93 Instructors - 270 The Official Challenges; Magazine of There has been late exchequer fund release to counties Kisii County 703 133 20 20 which hinder service delivery. Government schools Classrooms ECD Centres Workshops At the same time, the funds allocated to counties are benefited from constructed constructed constructed inadequate and that is why the Council of Governors is distribution of with modern 2020 Edition. CBC textbooks sanitation petitioning for the upward revision of the overall allocation of Sh316 billion for all counties in 2019/2020 Financial Year. January 1 2020 for ECDE facilities - December 31, However, we have been trying to mitigate this inadequate 2020 funding by sourcing for development partners, investors and trained ECDE teachers on CBC curriculum delivery. donors to help us offer services to the public. 51 Kisii County recruits tutors for vocational training BEFORE devolution O PM ENT , LA UR , BO T I ON A E DU C OF

Masakwe Vocational Training Centre in Sensi ward.

T M ENT he Kisii County skills they are able to go into primary and secondary schools, very high both locally and also

D MA N P OWEA N D E V L R Government has self-employment through self- and indeed those trainings have in our neighbouring counties. recruited more than 270 reliance initiatives. posted encouraging results and There is no reported case of a Tinstructors for Vocational “We have set aside resources our students have benefited a graduand who has completed Training Centres (VTCs) since to avail teaching and learning lot,” said Ongaga. their courses and has remained 2013. materials in VTCs for effective Some of the trainings being idle. I can confidently say they

D E PAR The tutors have been working curriculum delivery,” Governor undertaken in the VTCs include have something meaningful in more than 58 VTCs across James Ongwae once said. food processing, agribusiness, to do either by self or through the County with a population of He said that as chair of the metal processing technology, formal employment,” Masanta more than 5,000 students. Human Resources and Social motor vehicle mechanics, assured. Before Devolution the Welfare Committee of the electrical and electronics The County Government in National Government used Council of Governors (CoG), he technology, hair dressing and 2017/18 Financial Year procured management committees to had mooted the idea of forming design, carpentry and joinery, training equipment in its effort run village polytechnics, as they a national taskforce to look into ICT, motor vehicle wiring and to promote learning and boost were known then, and granted the affairs of VTC instructors. stone carving. enrolment. them the powers to operate and Vocational Training Director According to Chris Masanta, In 2018/19, the Ministry consequently hire tutors. Tom Ongaga said the move Assistant Director Vocational of Education, Science and In the 2010 Constitution, to recruit new tutors is a Training, male students prefer Technology, through the State vocational training was devolved significant boost to the sector more masculine courses, for Department of Vocational to counties and it has been a adding that enrolment in VTCs example carpentry and joinery Training disbursed Sh26 million revolution since then. has risen tremendously as a and masonry while their female in 2018/19 and Sh52 million in Vocational training result. counterparts go for softer 2019/20 as tuition fees. was meant to address “We are offering training skills such as hair dressing and This will consequently go unemployment. Since learners in so many fields to many of fashion design. a long way in relieving the are equipped with technical our youth who are completing “Demand for these skills is burden of paying tuition fees for

Kisii insight

The Official Magazine of Kisii County Government

2020 Edition. January 1 2020 - December 31, 2020

A youth polytechnic in Keumbu 52 Kisii County recruits tutors for vocational training Aga Khan Foundation AFTER pact set to benefit O PM ENT

ECDE in Kisii County LA UR , BO

The Kisii County Government has committed to closely work with the Aga Khan Development

Network (AKDN) to improve Early Childhood T I ON

Development and Education (ECDE) in the A county. Governor James Ongwae witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the County Executive Committee member of Education Amos Andama and the foundation’s chief executive Graham Wood E DU C New look Masakwe Vocational Training Centre after it was at the County headquarters in 2019. constructed using funds from Kisii County Government.

The foundation’s agency Madrassa Early OF Childhood Programme-Kenya (MECP-K) will parents. officers to improve supervision of VTC implement the programme. So far, the County Government curriculum. In the agreement, the MCEP-K organisation has managed to build three Digital For instance, for the last two will support the county realise its ECDE targets Information and Communication years, Nyaore VTC has been ranked and aspirations as spelt out in the County

Technology Centres in Nyaore top countrywide in producing best Integrated Development Plan (CIDP). T M ENT Vocational Training Centre, Keumbu students. “I welcome MECP-K programmes that will MA N P OWEA N D E V L R Vocational Training Centre and This is a clear indication that align with and compliment the County ECDE Nyaburumbasi Vocational Training the resources injected into these sectoral plans to improve quality of education Centre. institutions are bringing forth value. in line with Vision 2030,” said Governor The centres have been provided In encouraging partnership in this Ongwae. with state-of-the-art equipment sector, a beauty product manufacturer, Wood said the programmes include offering D E PAR for learning, research, business Style Industries, in partnership professional development of pre-primary innovation and incubation and with the County, has refurbished school teachers working in public institutions also serves the ICT needs of the hairdressing workshops at Nyaore and in the county, supporting the County surrounding communities. Keumbu Vocational Training Centres in Government to establish model pre-primary The County has also employed Kisii County. schools, enabling teachers to access teaching quality assurance and standards and learning resources required to promote child-centered learning. “MECPK will provide professional AFTER development courses to government officials within the department in charge of ECDE and complement County Government capacity to monitor and support ECDE interventions in pre-primary schools. This will increase quality and impact on children’s learning and on their holistic wellbeing,” said Wood. He reiterated the importance of building a strong education for beginners adding that he will work with the county leadership to ensure the success of the programme. Through this partnership, the County Government demonstrates its commitment to offer quality education to the young learners so as to give them a solid foundation for their future wellbeing. The county has a population of more than Kisii 70,000 ECDE learners admitted in 703 centres insight across the county. Magenche DOK ECD classroom built by the county government The Aga Khan Development Network agencies have significantly invested in Nyanza BEFORE region with a focus on ECDE, education and health Through the County Government - Aga Khan Foundation Partnership, the Education The Official Department has managed 200 pre -primary teachers on Competence Based Curriculum Magazine of and learning material development to improve Kisii County learning outcomes in schools. Government Also the 112 pre-primary Board of Management members and their respective headteachers have been taken through 2020 Edition. a sensitisation workshop on the need to January 1 2020 support pre-primaryeducation and the new - December 31, Competence Based Curriculum (CBC). 2020

Magenche DOK ECD classroom before devolution 53 Government A Nyabururu high school student Viona

O PM ENT Kemunto

, LA UR , BO unleashes Marucha, receives a cheque after the county Sh650 million government

T I ON offered her a scholarship in A in bursaries 2019.

ince 2013 the County Government as Conditional Grants to 50 Vocational Boards of Management as the programme

E DU C has disbursed Sh650 million as Training Institutes to cater for tuition fee for is still on-going. bursaries to the needy in Kisii County. learners which is the highest in the country. In the Financial Year 2018/19 We urge more youth to join the Vocational Infrastructure OF S alone, the County Government disbursed Centres so as to acquire skills that will The department has managed to Sh135 million to 45 Wards (Sh3 million Per enable them contribute to President Uhuru complete a number of infrastructural Ward) to 39,026 successful applicants who Kenyatta’s Big Four agenda while at the projects which are now in use. come from humble backgrounds. same time generating an income. A number of pit latrines for Early In the allocations, Universities Childhood Development Education (ECDE) have received Sh14,779,500, Colleges Pre-Primary Teacher Training centres have been constructed in various T M ENT Sh11,577,000, Secondary Schools D MA N P OWEA N D E V L R In pre-primary education, the department institutions. The 703 ECDE centres have Sh106,545,500 and Vocational Training has managed to train all Sub-County received the new Competence Based Centers, Sh2,098,000 for the year 2019. Officers on the Competence Based Curriculum (CBC) materials. Curriculum and learning One Hundred and Thirty Three ECDE Digital ICT Centres classrooms are complete and in use. The

D E PAR Three modern Digital Information Materials Development county has strived to ensure adequate and Communication Technology (ICT) One Hundred and Twelve pre-primary infrastructural development to facilitate Centres have been established in the Board of Management members and their early learning in various parts of Kisii following Vocational Training Centres respective headteachers have been taken County. ; Nyaore Vocational Training Centre, through a sensitisation workshop on the “We have also completed 20 Vocational Keumbu Vocational Training Centre and need to support pre-primary education and Training Centres and five hostels are Nyaburumbasi Vocational Training Centre. the new Competence Based Curriculum at various levels of construction,”said The centres are networked with state-of- (CBC). Education County Executive Member Mr the-art equipment for learning, research, Two Hundred pre-primary teachers have Amos Andama. business innovation and incubation and received CBC coupled with learning material Mr Andama said the County has also serve the ICT needs of surrounding development training to improve learning delivered teaching and learning materials communities. More centres will be outcomes in our schools. as well as supplied slides, climbers and established before the end of this year. These training programmes are being swings to these centres together with tools funded through a partnership between and equipment to all 58 Vocational Training Tuition Grants for Vocational the county government and Aga Khan Centres. Training Foundation. The Department continues In FY2018/19 Sh52 million was disbursed to train more teachers, headteachers and

Kisii insight

The Official Magazine of Kisii County Government

2020 Edition. January 1 2020 - December 31, 2020

Governor James Ongwae presents a cheque to beneficiaries at the launch of the Kisii County Bursary Fund. 54 The County Government has acquired a modern fire engine and a rapid response vehicle to enhance disaster preparedness. Residents can report disaster outbreaks using emergency call number 0727600010 which is operational 24 hours a day.” - County Executive Committee Member (CECM): Dr Walter Bichang’a Okibo Chief Officers - Geoffrey Mogire (Administration, Enforcement and Devolved units) - Alex Nyamweya (Ag. Stake holder Management Public Participation and Disaster Management) Dr Walter Okibo Geofrey Mogire Alex Nyamweya

MANDATE In realization of its core mandate of linking Delivering seamless the other sectors with key stakeholders and coordination and supervision of County Government affairs, the sector realised the following achievements: services to residents 1. Developed a Strategic Plan for the department. 2. Introduced and coordinated Performance of County, businesses Contracting for senior county officers he department derives its • Kisii County Flag, Emblems and 3. Constructed and equipped Sub-County and mandate from the County Names Act, 2014 Ward offices. Government Act, 2012, primarily • Ethics and Integrity Policy 4. Constructed pit latrines for Ward offices. Tto: • Code of Conduct and Ethics for 5. Hired and trained sub-county and ward the County Public Service administrators • Institutionalise governance tion &Ad m inistr a tion 6. Purchased motor vehicles for sub-county structure The Kisii County Flag, Emblems administrators. • Oversee public service and Names Act, 2014 management; facilitate and 7. Established a county enforcement unit. The symbols were designed and coordinate citizen participation developed through a consultative 8. Established an Emergency and Disaster and involvement Management Unit to ensure preparedness process before approval by the County • Coordinate County Government to respond to emergencies. Assembly. The county flag, coat of functions at the devolved arms, logo and seal are instruments 9. Trained officers in the unit on firefighting, units enforcement of county that signify identity and the exercise disaster handling and prevention, and laws, disaster management response coordination. of authority. The colours used are and emergency response symbolic as illustrated below: 10. Held sub-county devolution conference coordination dialogues and public participation and civic The department has facilitated COLOUR/ MEANING engagements in all sub-counties to enable the institutionalisation of governance SYMBOL public participation in County governance. structure in the county, whose focus Signifies that the sky is 11. Developed various human resource manuals Blue M a n ageme nt D EPA RT ME NT is on devolved units with nine sub- the limit for the county. including the Employee Code of Ethics. counties and 45 electoral wards. Represents peace and 12. Coordinated national and county To strengthen the decentralised White celebrations. units, the county has recruited and unity. 13. Carried out stakeholder mapping and civil deployed sub-county and ward Denotes the rich societies. administrators who are responsible Green agricultural potential 14. Established a County Disaster Fund. for coordination, management of the county. 15. Acquired assorted firefighting equipment and supervision of the general Kisii Represents unity and through partnership with development administrative functions in the devolved Yellow rope insight strength. agencies. units, as well as facilitating citizen 16. Carried out several disaster rescue participation in governance. Exemplify the six clans in the county and other operations in collaboration with the national seven stars government. communities residing Enabling legislations in our county. 17. Recruited and deployed human resource To provide efficient and effective officers in the County. Symbolizes our green delivery of services, the department The hills 18. Developed HIV/AIDS Policy for the has developed the following highlands. The Official workplace. legislations/policies, thereby granting The round Stands for Omogusii Magazine of the department legitimate power to ring (egetinge) unity. Kisii County Vision carry out certain actions: Kisii Government A leading department in public policy formulation, • Kisii County HIV and Aids Embodies the creative soapstone implementation, coordination, supervision and Workplace Policy art of the . figurine prudent resource management. • Kisii County Transport and Fleet Management Policy A symbol of prosperity, 2020 Edition. opportunities, January 1 2020 • Kisii County Disaster The shield mission Management Act, 2015 justice, courage and - December 31, To provide overall leadership and policy direction • Kisii County Public Participation abundance. 2020 in resource mobilisation, management and Act, 2016 accountability for quality public service delivery. 55

CES SE RVI TE , CO RP O RA , R MA N AG E M ENT AK EHO LD E R CS Matiang’i inspects a quarter guard staged in his honour by the Kisii County enforcement officers during a previous visit to Kisii. T I ON

counseling, minute and report Disaster Management Unit (NDMU) has Directorates writing, rapid results initiative, senior The department has several other sub- trained officers in the unit, while the US management course. State of Minnesota’s Fire marshals have departments managed and run by directors • The directorate has customised three D ST A N D of various capacity which include trained the unit on firefighting, disaster national policies namely; handling, prevention and response Human Resource Policies and Procedures coordination. SNO DIRECTORATE DIRECTOR Manual for the County Public Service, April, In addition,the county has acquired 1 Devolved unit Oisebe Albert, 2014. a 10,000 litre firefighting engine and a Internship Policy and Guidelines for the Human resource Ongechi Duke, support truck, assorted firefighting gear and 2 county service, April, 2014. management renovated six water hydrant points located RA ADMI N I ST Competency framework for Public Service, at the KTRH, Ram hospital, Nyanchwa, Enforcement and Daniel Maguto 2018. 3 Getembe, Daraja mbili and Kisii Central compliance • The payroll has been successfully police station. OF Fleet run by 23rd of the month hence The County Government of Kisii partnered 4 Mbaka Henry management employees are paid on time. with World Bank in the construction of Disaster • All employees under permanent a state-of-the-art fire station which has Nicodemus Orito 5 and rescue and contract terms of service enjoy capacity to serve the entire Western Kenya management a comprehensive medical cover by region. The fire station will house the NHIF. Disaster Management Directorate and T M ENT Civic education • In partnership with LAPFUND and provide an enabling environment for their 6 and stakeholder Geofrey Omwocha National Aids Council (NAC) HRM management routine activities. The facility will in future be sensitises employees on management accredited as a training school for capacity Ag Director 7 Harun Nyamache of HIV/AIDS. building on emergency response and Administration preparedness in the region.

D E PAR Fleet and Management Enforcement and Compliance Achivements Office space The Department of Enforcement and Already 200 drivers have been retrained When the County Government came to Compliance is mandated to undertake the on vehicle management policy which office, there was insufficient office space for following functions: provides them with guidance on their day to staff. The county therefore, embarked on 1. Enforce County financial bill and other day activities. construction and renovation of offices at the county laws so as to enhance Revenue The department has always ensured headquarters, sub-county and ward levels. Kisii collection. that insurance companies undertake The additional and refurbished space insight 2. Security of county buildings and to restore our vehicles to road worthy has now provided officers with conducive facilities. conditions where accidents have occurred, working environment and brought services 3. Enforcing county Acts (e.g. Public the most recent being vehicles attached to closer to the people. Health Act, Physical Planning Act, revenue department which were involved in Environmental Act). accidents as well as ambulances. 4. Traffic control in town and during market days. 5. Nuisance and menace control. Civic Education and Public The Official 6. Ensure law and order is maintained Participation Magazine of in collaboration with the national The department has ensured efficient Kisii County government structure. management and engagement with the public through frequent public participation Government The Directorate of Human Resource Management foras. Achievements 2020 Edition. • The directorate, through the Kenya Emergency and disaster January 1 2020 Devolution Support Programme, - December 31, World Bank support programme and management 2020 AHADI, was able to train officers in To ensure preparedness to respond to the following arears; performance emergencies, the county established an management, staff plans, records Emergency and Disaster Management Unit. management IPPD, guidance and The National Police Service’s National 56

Banking on external, internal trade to spur investment and development

Market sheds Kegogi, Raganga, Sengera, done Ramasha, Eronge, Gesusu, Matongo, Gesieka, Nyamaiya, Gesonso, Ekerubo, Positioning Nyanturago, Kiobegi, Igare, Kisii to attract Kegati, Kiogoro, Nyamasibi, Magenche, Daraja mbili 3 investments.” sheds...mama omena,fruits County Executive vendors and Mali mali., Committee Member Ongoing, Bobaracho, OF T r a d e (CECM): MS Edna Nyangusu, Mogonga Kangwana Shomap Riosiri, Mosocho, Rioma, markets 6 Kenyenya Chief Officer: Collaboration MS Billiah Mogaka with national Edina Kangwana Billiah Mogaka government colaboration with national a nd I ndustry e are creating an enabling governemnt environment for business Projects in Daraja Mbili Market, Nyakoe operations throughout the county. MANDATE colaboration Market Kisii is a diversified economy The mandate of the department is W promotion of domestic trade through with national and has a long history of private sector government development. The County has a wealth creation of an enabling business and of investment opportunities in agro- investment environment. processing, healthcare, education, Daraja Mbili Market improvement tourism, power generation, agriculture Daraja Mbili market is the second largest and horticulture, transport, housing, open-air market in the Nyanza region after infrastructure development, mining, sports Kibuye in Kisumu and therefore, places the and ICT. county as an economic hub in the region. The sector is comprised of trade, tourism However, the market has been facing Vision challenges of inadequate basic facilities. and industry sub-sectors. The mandate of To be a leader in promoting competitive the sector is to promote both domestic and The county, in collaboration with the domestic trade in Kenya by 2030 international trade, tourism and industry in National Government, is upgrading the D EPA RT ME NT the county through creation of an enabling market. Phase I of the project, including business and investment environment. completion of the stalled market building at a cost of Sh204 million, has been concluded awaiting space allocation to 3,000 traders. Key achievements mission The county has constructed access roads around the market, additional sheds, Enabling Legislations To facilitate orderly growth and development of domestic trade in Kenya. washrooms and stone pitching on Rivers The following legislations have been Nyakomisaro and Nyanchwa which cut enacted: through the market. • Kisii County Trade Credit Scheme Act, There exists viable investment 2015; opportunities in the county derived from • Kisii County Trade and Markets Act, Abuse (ASA). Department is rolling out the local resources but the opportunities 2015; sensitization programs to all the 45 wards have for a long time remained untapped due • Alcoholic Drinks Control Act, 2015; on effects of ASA. to lack of a platform to showcase existing Kisii and potential investment and business Policies opportunities to the local, regional and insight • Tourism policy Projects Project location Construction Bogusero, Boochi Tendere, international investors and a network • Investment Policy; platform for negotiating joint ventures and • Investment Guide. of Market Keumbu, Kiogoro, Bombaba Toilets Borabu, Bogeka, Nyatieko, partnerships. Market Development Sensi, Ichuni, Gesusu, In 2016, we successfully held the first The County is improving markets across Nyamasibi, Bogiakumu, Riana. ever Kisii Entrepreneurship Summit the 45 wards through the construction of (KES 2016). The three-day, high impact new ones while providing basic facilities to Construction Chitago Borabu, Bomorenda summit brought together local, regional The Official of sheds Ward, Omosaria, Matunwa, the existing markets. and international investors to a platform Magazine of (ongoing Matierio, Nyamache, Riosiri, where we showcased trade and investment Challenges such as inadequate space for Kisii County selling products and lack of basic amenities project) Tabaka, Sengera, Kiobogi opportunities in Kisii County. like toilets and shelter bedeviled traders in Following the summit, we have Government Market toilets Kenyerere, Rionyiego, Kisii various market centres before the inception managed to sign contractual agreements Town, Keumbu, Omoringamu, of devolution. with a number of investors including Eronge, Nyakeyo, Gesieka, To address this, the department of trade an agreement with an investor on the 2020 Edition. Nyabitunwa, Igembe, facilitated the construction of markets establishment of a Sh5 billion sugar January 1 2020 Ramasha, Ibacho, Nyabieyo across the County. complex in South Mogirango. - December 31, 2020 The County Government in collaboration Starting soon Nyamarambe, Tabaka Modalities to actualise this project are with Nacada is in the process of constructing on course and preliminary approvals for the Rehabilitated Ogembo in bomachoge, project have been given. a rehabilitation centre at Kiamwasi for markets Marani, Kiango market people suffering with Alcohol and Substance When ready, the sugar complex will 57 Intellectual Property Institute (KIPI) to protect soapstone as a geographical feature and safe-guard the intellectual property rights of artiste. Already, an investor has set a private processing factory in South Mogirango to engage in value addition. The factory will produce fine soap-stone powder to be ry In du st used as an additive in the manufacturing of Kaolin.

Creating an enabling environment Since the inception of the County Government, the financial sector in Kisii has experienced tremendous growth with the number of commercial banks rising from 13 in 2013 to 22 currently. Governor James Ongwae interacting with traders in Kisii Town recently. Insurance firms present in Kisii have e a n d Trad e grown from nine in 2013 to 17 currently. Indeed, statistics from the Central Bank in

OF Kisumu indicate that Kisii controls 60 per Governor cent of the money market in Nyanza. James To support this growth, CBK is Ongwae (R) establishing a money-clearing house in Kisii. hands over a motorcycle Weights and measures to Kisii To ensure the use of accurate weighing T M ENT bodaboda and measuring equipment, encouraging Sacco led by their fair trade practices and protecting the chairman consumer against unscrupulous traders, the Michael directorate has ensured that all scales and Mose (C) volumes used by traders are up to standard at Gusii through routine inspection and verification. D E PAR Stadium in January, Tourism 2015. The directorate of Tourism is tasked to facilitate sustainable development, management and marketing of our County tourism and hospitality products. crush 5,000 tonnes of sugarcane per day sector is growing fast growing and has and produce 172,500 metric tonnes of sugar created jobs for thousands of youth in the making it the second largest sugar factory in County. To support this thriving industry, the ACHIEVEMENTS Kenya after . Additionally, the sugar County built 200 boda boda sheds (four per Soapstone: We have widened visibility complex will produce 15 million litres of ward) to improve the working conditions of of soapstone through installation of stone ethanol and 10 Megawatts of power. the operators. monuments at the County Headquarters The factory will be a major boon to our office such as the ‘Sakawa’ legend Granite Soapstone: Soapstone is a unique county’s agriculture sector as it will not only carving. rock that is only found in Kisii County. The improve earnings to farmers but also create The county, in partnership with the bedrock of this stone spreads more than 40 about 10,000 direct and indirect jobs for our National Government through the ministry square kilometres and experts estimate that people. of Mining, is exploring other value addition only 20 per cent has been exploited so far. Through the summit, we forged a avenues on the Kisii Soapstone. Already, Much of the soapstone is mined crudely and partnership with the United Nations there has been a joint stakeholders and exported as a raw material or used to make Conference on Trade and Development public participation forum organised by the figurines. (UNCTAD) for training innovators in Kisii Ministry of Mining. County. Soapstone can be manipulated to make products including talc powder, ceramics and paint among others. However, miners, Miss tourism: We introduced the Kisii The Kisii County Trade Credit carvers and artistes have not benefitted fully Annual Miss Tourism event that is a platform insight Scheme from this unique rock. for young people to showcase their talents Inadequate business finance is one of The County has developed the Soapstone in modeling, fashion, dance, cultural art and the principal causes of business failure in Mining Policy that outlines what soapstone poetry. the County. To address this challenge facing is, ownership, trading, value addition and traders, the County government initiated marketing of its products. It also spells out Mapping of tourist sites in Kisii a revolving credit scheme that provides measures to ensure owners of soapstone County: A report has been finalised in affordable access to business finance to benefit and prevent exploitation from readiness for protection, conservation and the micro, small and medium enterprises middlemen. product development on tourist sites. The Official (MSMEs). Already, the County government has Magazine of With the enabling legislations in place, roped in the Ministry of Petroleum and Kisii County we have set up a board to manage the funds Mining to establish a value addition factory Mapping of hospitality outlets: for the Kisii Soapstone at Tabaka in South Mapping and profiling of the County Government and the County assembly gave the necessary approvals. Through the scheme, MSMEs can Mugirango. Hospitality is ongoing. can apply for funds from this scheme. A joint public participation exercise Through this scheme, 200 youth have involving the county and the Ministry 2020 Edition. Tourism hub: We have finalised acquired motorcycles (bodaboda) through of Mining has been undertaken while a January 1 2020 visibility studies on the proposed Kisii their Savings and Credit Cooperative Society. feasibility study, which was commissioned County Tourism Hub.This is for the purpose - December 31, Most beneficiaries were initially employed by the government, has returned a positive 2020 of conserving our culture and Marketing our as motocycle riders but now they have been verdict on the viability of industrialising unique curios and products. empowered to become entrepreneurs. exploitation of the soapstone. Besides, we have engaged the Property Boda boda sheds: The boda boda Organisation (WIPO) and the Kenya 58 Tabaka soapstone factory comes to the aid of miners ry In du st

oapstone miners in South area in South Mugirango sub- Mugirango, Kisii County, county where the unique soap have a reason to smile as stone is mined. We all know Sthe national and county that it is only Kisii County in the governments have finalised whole world that has extensive plans to set up a soapstone deposits of the unique stone,” e a n d Trad e factory. said the Governor. The National Government, Mr Ongwae said the factory is

through the Ministry of a dream come true for residents OF Petroleum and Mining, has adding that after the value already engaged experts to addition, the investment will identify a viable international contribute to the housing sector market for the Tabaka in the President’s Big Four soapstone. agenda.

The Cabinet Secretary in He thanked President Uhuru T M ENT charge of Petroleum and Mining Kenyatta for fulfilling his Peter Munyes and a team promise to have the factory in of experts have conducted a Kisii. visibility study on the amount of “When President Uhuru soapstone deposits in the area. visited recently, I petitioned him, State Bank of Mauritius (SBM) Chairman Mr. Kee Chong Li Kwong Wing receives A tentative survey had showed on behalf of miners, to help us in a gift from Governor James Ongwae after he paid a courtesy call in his office. D E PAR that the region has deposits that setting up the soapstone factory. may be exploited for more than I am happy that he listened to of the stone, Bosinange area enhancing county and national 200 years. the plea of county residents,” has 6. 8 million, Tabaka 2.2 government revenue,” said Mr Governor James Ongwae said Mr Ongwae. million while Sameta has 12.5 Ongwae. said, through the factory, locals Soapstone in Tabaka, whose million deposits of the precious The governor regretted that will have an organised way to mining has been going on stone. for years, locals have been export and sell value-added since 1880, has a bed rock of “The upcoming investment exploited by middlemen who products. approximately 25 kilometre will be a gamechanger since it buy the stone at a throw away “Recently, the CS and his running 800 feet deep. will provide direct and indirect price, take it for value addition Principal Secretary Mr Omenge It is estimated that Got Chaki employment to close to 10,000 elsewhere before it is exported were here and we toured Tabaka area contains five million tonnes people mostly locals besides to international markets. Mr Ongwae thanked the National Government for listing Kisii soapstone among the major minerals it is keen on promoting adding that his administration will continue partnering with the ministry to actualise value addition on the Tabaka soapstone. “Kisii is blessed with minerals like soapstone and granite found in Bonchari Kisii sub-county. We have also insight received reports that there are petroleum deposits in some parts which need to be confirmed,” he said. Mr Munyes said that plans by the national government to construct a value addition center in Tabaka will greatly The Official benefit miners from the area Magazine of who have been exploited for Kisii County years by middlemen. Government “Once the value addition initiative becomes a reality, locals will market soapstone products like chalk, ceramics 2020 Edition. and pharmaceuticals to January 1 2020 countries like Europe, China, - December 31, US, Japan, among 2020 other countries,” said the CS Governor James Ongwae (r) receives Mining CS John Munyes (c) and the ministry’s Principal Secretary John Omenge in Kisii. National Government officials were in Kisii to examine the viability of starting a soapstone factory in Tabaka. 59 Key MILESTONES SINCE 2013 Markets Construction of sheds

Ongoing projects ry In du st Chitago Borabu, Bomorenda Ward, Omosaria, Matunwa, Matierio, Nyamache,

Construction of Market Toilets

Kenyerere, Rionyiego, Kisii Town, Keumbu, Omoringamu, Eronge, Nyakeyo, 85% Gesieka, Nyabitunwa, Igembe, Ramasha, Ibacho, Nyabieyo In partnership with National Government, the County has Bogusero, Tendere Boochi, Keumbu, Kiogoro, Bombaba Borabu, Bogeka, constructed Daraja mbili market which is at 85% complete The County has also constructed markets and mama mboga sheds Nyatieko, Sensi, Ichuni, Gesusu, Nyamasibi, Bogiakumu, Riana. across the County. e a n d Trad e OF T M ENT D E PAR Mama mbogas set to benefit from Nyakoe market facelift deal Upgrading of Nyakoe modern retail market in Kitutu Chache South sub-county has started. The project, which is implemented by the Businesses to re-energise Lake Basin Development Authority (LBDA), will be constructed at a tune of Sh107 million. Its construction follows President Uhuru in Sh10 million credit deal Kenyatta’s directive in 2016 when he visited Kisii. egistered small scale traders the Assembly Trade Committee Speaking in his office when he held a in Kisii County are set to benefit members, a representative of Maendeleo consultative meeting with officers from LBDA from a Sh10 million County Credit ya Wanawake Organisation, Chairman led by the Managing Director Dr Raymond RScheme to boost their business. Chamber of Commerce and a nominee Omollo, Governor James Ongwae said that Beneficiaries, who will include youth from all the 45 wards. after the completion, the market will create and women groups across the 45 wards, The scheme was passed as an Act of an enabling trading environment for traders will access the funding after undergoing the Kisii County Assembly to establish a especially mama mbogas. Kisii a vetting process. Trade Credit Scheme with an objective “The market will benefit our traders as they insight The County Executive Committee of providing access to affordable credit will be operating in a conducive environment. Member (CEC) in charge of Trade for start-ups, Micro, Small and Medium The youth and women will be the major and Industry Ms Edna Kangwana said Enterprises (MSMEs), and agribusiness beneficiaries,” said Ongwae. the department has set up a board to and producer groups to promote trade Mr Ongwae said his team has successfully oversee the operations of the fund. development and economic growth of conducted a public participation exercise “We have done a public participation the locals. adding that other aspects like relocation exercise to identify possible The fund also aims at creating plans and preliminary works for tender beneficiaries. Further, the department employment opportunities and facilitates documentations will be finalised soon. The Official has done vetting of groups that will investment in MSMEs that benefit the The Governor revealed that since the Magazine of benefit,” said Ms Kangwana. youth, women and persons living with President gave an order three years ago, his Kisii County She revealed that already they have disabilities. office has been making constant follow ups to Government identified the facilitating bank which Mrs Kangwana said that the fund ensure it succeeds. will be giving soft loans on behalf of would be increased in the next Financial Dr Omollo expressed the commitment of the the county and a fund manager for Year stressing that the initial amount will authority towards full implementation of the the scheme as per the Public Finance be used to pilot the project. project. 2020 Edition. Management (PFM) act. “We intend to transform the scheme January 1 2020 “I cherish the relationship my office has “Beneficiaries will get a minimum of to a Biashara fund that can attract with that of the Kisii County government. We - December 31, Sh10,000 and a maximum of Sh200,000 funding from donors. We assure the 2020 will closely work to ensure that the project is depending on the strength of their public that only the deserving groups will actualised within the stipulated time,” said Dr business. benefit from the fund after undergoing a Omollo. A training has been conducted vigorous vetting process,” she added. targeting the scheme’s board members, 60 The County Government continues e s to implement various projects aimed at reducing the distance covered to access water e r & across the county.” - COUNTY EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER (CECM) Dr Skitter Ocharo Chief Officers: - Charles Nyakweba (Ag Environment) - Beatrice Ochoki (Water Services) Dr Skitter W. Ocharo Charles Nyakweba Beatrice Ochoki County Government taps strategic partners towards clean water for all Enabling Legislations and Policies boreholes into water reticulation schemes to MANDATE - The Kisii County Public Nuisance Act, also serve residents surroundings the public To ensure adequate, clean and reliable 2014 institutions. supply of water; effective and efficient - Kisii County Polythene bags and Up to 25 boreholes were initially drilled sewerage services, expansion of Garbage Control Act 2015 through contractual terms in Boochi Tendere, Ibeno, Boochi Borabu, Bogeka, electricity supply and adoption in - Executive Order No 2/2019 on En e r g y, w a t usage of renewable sources of energy, Eucalyptus replacement and removal Nyamasibi, Machoge Bassi, Keumbu, and protection of environment from all of structures from wetlands and Tabaka, Moticho, Bogetenga, Bogetaorio, forms of pollution and destruction. riparian areas. Kiamokama, Gesusu, Bogusero, Nyakoe, County governments have been given To provide our people with clean and Kitutu Central, Nyatrieko, and Bassi central the function of delivering water and pottable water, the County has invested in wards. But to make the effort affordable and

sanitation services, according to the the following programmes. al Re sourc Na tur Constitution of Kenya 2010. efficient, the county procured a rig to help in drilling of boreholes and this machine is This express duty to counties has been Item Before After expected to speed up the work in several given in the fourth schedule of the devolution devolution Constitution and this is where the Kisi sites across the county. County Department of Water, Energy, Spring - 250 springs Environment and Natural resources protection Water Schemes derives its mandate. Water schemes - 675 In a bid to improve access to potable The energy function is not fully water and reduce the distance residents devolved but the county government, Community - 45 Boreholes cover to obtain the commodity from three in partnership with the national to less than a kilometre, the county initiated government and other stakeholders Water tanks - 237 the construction and rehabilitation of water have put in place measures to address Drilling Rig 0 1 schemes. So far, seven water schemes the energy requirements in the county. including; Getenga, Suguta, Amasago, Igoma, Rioma, Riosiri and Mosora are done Rain water harvesting while 18 others are under construction. In order to take advantage of the We have earmarked the construction of abundant rains in Kisii region, the county 31 other water schemes across the county. his sector comprises of Water and government, as per Governor James To step up water supply to Kisii town and Kisii Sanitation; Environment; Energy; and Ongwae’s manifesto, has undertaken to its environs we have, in partnership with insight Natural Resources sub-sectors. promote rain water harvesting and utility as development partner KfW German Bank, a means of addressing water shortages. rehabilitated and expanded Kegati water TWater: supply at a cost ofSh1.2 billion including; To actualise this, the county has Since inception of devolution, the county - Construction of treatment plant government has made deliberate efforts distributed water tanks to two public institutions in each of the 45 wards to - Construction of storage tank at to ensure that residents have access to Bobaracho with capacity of five million improved sources of water including the promote rain water harvesting. This is a continuous programme aimed at reaching litres protection of natural springs, drilling of - Construction of a storage tank at boreholes and reticulation and construction all public institutions across the county in The Official the fullness of time. Nyanguru with capacity of three million Magazine of of water springs while rehabilitating existing litres. Kisii County ones. - Construction of a sewer line and water These efforts have seen the protection Drilling of boreholes distribution lines. Government of 250 springs across the 45 wards drilling To increase access to safe and clean The Sewer ponds and wastewater of 45 boreholes, distribution of 237 water water for residents for domestic use and treatment plant at Suneka is also being tanks to selected centres and schools in support agriculture through irrigation, the expanded and improved to accommodate 2020 Edition. the county to boost rain water harvesting; county embarked on a programme to sink enhanced water supply besides taking January 1 2020 rehabilation of seven water schemes and boreholes in each of the 45 wards. care of environmental concerns in the - December 31, construction of 675 water schemes while 31 The boreholes are located in public surroundings. 2020 others are ongoing. institutions and are fitted with hand pumps. Key achievements The end programme is to develop the 61

CES Key MILESTONES SINCE 2013 ON M ENT

Amount the Government of Kenya,Sh1.2 in partnership with KfW German billion Bank, has injected into the rehabilitation and expansion of Kegati water supply. The county government is facilitating citizen engagement and other issues such as way leaves and land through GWASCO. URAL R ESO UR T URAL R, EN VIR TE R, A D N A A N D the water27m quantity in litres distributed in litres5m of water the storage tank litres3m of water the storage tank average per day. constructed at Bobaracho will carry constructed at Nyanguru will carry RGY, W ENE RGY, OF 1.2m 450 springs across the 45 wards, drilling people receive an average of 45 boreholes and distribution of 45 T M ENT rainfall of 1500 mm water tanks to selected centers and annually, which recharges schools in the county to boost rain springs water harvesting

D E PAR 25 boreholes have been drilled so far through contractual terms in Boochi Tendere, Ibeno, Boochi Borabu, Bogeka, Nyamasibi, Machoge Bassi, Keumbu, Tabaka, Moticho, Bogetenga,Bogetaorio, Kiamokama,Gesusu, Bogusero, Nyakoe, Kitutu Central, Nyatrieko, and Bassi central.

Environment To help conserve the environment, the county has already embarked on the restoration of Members of the wetlands and riparian areas. Public quench This follows the signing of the their thirsty at executive order 2/2019 by His the Keumbu Water point that Kisii Excellency the Governor James is part of a wider Ongwae. water project insight The order directs the public and commissioned mandates the relevant authorities to by Governor remove buildings, structures and the James Ongwae at Amasago. eucalyptus tree species growing on riparian areas and wetlands. Already, residents have taken heed and there has been an ongoing The Official drive to replace the eucalyptus trees on wetlands with water friendly to residents in the sustained county Magazine of varieties. re-afforestation drive. Kisii County This move is aimed at restoring At the same time, the county, Government the water levels in the county to in partnership with the multi- ensure adequate water supply from agency task force, is working to the schemes and boreholes the remove all structures along rivers 2020 Edition. county has been investing in. Nyakomisaro and Nyanchwa so as January 1 2020 Importantly, the county to ensure that the rivers which cut - December 31, government is taking over a number through Kisii town to Riana are clear 2020 of tree nurseries formerly owned by of any water contaminating effluent the defunct local authorities with a emanating from raw sewerage and view to having them operationalised solid garbage. to supply desirable trees seedlings The newly purchased drilling rig by the county government. 62

esidents of Bomachoge Chache, CES Bomachoge Borabu and South Mugirango sub-counties are set to Rbenefit from a multi-million shilling Sh800m Mokubo water water project initiated by the Kisii County ON M ENT Government. Construction works for Mokubo water project to quench thirst project funded by the Unicredit Bank of Austria to a tune of Sh800 million that will be pumping one million litres of water per day is set to begin following successful of Kisii County residents negotiations of the deal facilitated by the Ministry of Finance. programmes,” said the Governor. Paul Aowanda noted that the agency will Speaking when he received a delegation “Visibility study is being finalised. Public be offering the technical support on the URAL R ESO UR T URAL

of officials from the Austrian government participation is underway while the process project to guide the implementation that EN VIR TE R,

led by Kimani Rebo, representing MUT of transferring of land ownership is almost will be done by the Kisii County Government A Austria company, Governor James Ongwae complete,” added Ongwae. together with MUT. lauded the donor for considering the The Governor who was accompanied “The constitution of Kenya 2010 requires county’s proposal for coming up with by his deputy Joash Maangi, the County that water is a human right, we are here to the project that is set to address water Secretary Patrick Lumumba, County fulfil this fundamental requirement. We are

shortage in the area. Executive Committee Members Skitter looking forward to the commencement of N A A N D “I am happy to announce that the major Ocharo (Energy, Water, Environment and the project,” said Aowanda. project has been approved. It covers a Natural Resource) and Moses Onderi The Governor note that water supply 40 kilometre radius from Mokubo area, (Finance and Economic Planning) among in the county has been a challenge meaning that it will serve the entire other senior officers confirmed that and appealed for the preservation and

Bomachoge Borabu, Ogembo, Northern other forms of due diligence have been restoration of water sources. W ENE RGY, parts of Etago, and parts of Bobasi,” undertaken and the contractor, Lake Victoria He decried the haphazard planting of confirmed Ongwae. South Water Works Development Agency eucalyptus trees in water catchment areas He said the project covers water and (LVSWWDA) is ready to commence the and riparian lands which has been blamed OF sanitation and a major treatment facility, project. for the dwindling of water levels and adding that it has facilitations for water The Austrian government delegation appealled to residents to replace the trees kiosks which will serve homesteads, commended the county for initiating the with water friendly varieties even as the schools, markets and other public project which is focused in boosting water county government undertakes a campaign institutions. supply to the rural folks and coordinating for the total removal of the blue gum from The Governor said his administration relevant stakeholders for the project to take near water sources. T M ENT was committed to provision of safe and off. Recently, Governor Ongwae signed clean water to the residents, adding Kimani said MUT, a renowned water and an executive order compelling the locals that the Mokubo water project is part of sanitation company, is willing to do more to cut down eucalyptus trees planted on his initiatives in line with his County’s related projects in Kisii. wetlands and marsh areas and ordered the development manifesto.

“We thank Governor Ongwae for letting department of environment to give residents D E PAR “The project is a major boost to the us have the first milestone from Austria that viable indigenous trees for replacement. county’s water projects which include will have a lot of impact to the rural folk. boreholes, water schemes and reticulation LVSWWDA’S Manager, Asset Development

Kisii insight

The Official Magazine of Kisii County Government

2020 Edition. January 1 2020 - December 31, 2020 Governor James Ongwae holding discussions with a delegation from the Lake Victoria Water Basin Authority to help actualise construction works for Mokubo water project in Bomachoge Borabu Constituency. The project funded by the Unicredit Bank of Austria is an initiative of the county government and is implemented by the Lake Victoria South Water Works Development Agency (LVSWWDA). 63

CES The major water pump installed at KTRH to enhance water circulation at the facility. ON M ENT URAL R ESO UR T URAL R, EN VIR TE R, A D N A A N D RGY, W ENE RGY, OF T M ENT

D E PAR No more water shortage at KTRH hub as County sinks master boreholes

afe and clean drinking across the 45 wards drilling and utility as a means of Moticho, Bogetenga,Bogetaorio, water and sanitation of 45 boreholes, distribution addressing shortages. Kiamokama,Gesusu, Bogusero, was declared a human of 45 water tanks to selected The county has distributed Nyakoe, Kitutu Central, Nyatrieko, Sright on July 28, 2010 by centres and schools in the water tanks to two public and Bassi central. the UN General Assembly who county to boost rain water institutions in each of the 45 But to make the effort cost voiced their deep concern over harvesting; rehabilitation of wards to encourage rain water affordable and efficient, the 900 million people who lacked seven water schemes and harvesting. county procured a rig to help in access to safe drinking water. construction of 18 water This is a continuous the drilling of boreholes and this County governments are schemes while 31 others are programme aimed at reaching machine is expected to speed up Kisii mandated to deliver water ongoing. all public institutions across the the work in several sites across insight and sanitation services by the The department of water, county in the fullness of time. the county. Constitution of Kenya 2010 that led by County Executive In efforts to increase access to birthed devolution. Member Dr Skitter Ocharo safe and clean water to residents Water Schemes Kisii County which has has managed to prepare key for domestic use and to support To improve access to potable a population of 1.2 million legislative pieces that have agriculture through irrigation, water and reduce the distance people receives an average been passed in the county the county embarked on a residents cover to obtain the rainfall of 1500 mm annually, assembly. programme to sink boreholes in commodity from three to less which recharges springs. They include; the Kisii each of the 45 wards. than a kilometre, the county Since the inception The Official County Public Nuisance Act, The boreholes are located in initiated the construction and of devolution, the county Magazine of 2014, Kisii County Polythene public institutions and are fitted rehabilitation of water schemes. government has made Kisii County Bags and Garbage Control with hand pumps. So far, seven water deliberate efforts to ensure Government Act 2015, Executive Order The end game is to develop the schemes including; Getenga, that residents have access to No 2/2019 on eucalyptus boreholes into water reticulation Suguta,Amasago, Igoma, Rioma, improved sources of water replacement and removal of schemes to also serve residents Riosiri and Mosora are done while including the protection of structures from wetlands and surrounding the public 18 others are under construction. 2020 Edition. natural springs, drilling of riparian areas. institutions. The county government has January 1 2020 boreholes, reticulation and So far 25 boreholes have been earmarked the construction of 31 - December 31, construction of water springs 2020 Rain Water Harvesting drilled through contractual terms water schemes across the county. while rehabilitating existing Governor James Ongwae, in Boochi Tendere, Ibeno, Boochi ones. through his 2017 election Borabu, Bogeka, Nyamasibi, These efforts have seen manifesto, promised to Machoge Bassi, Keumbu, Tabaka, the protection of 540 springs 64 promote rain water harvesting

water and sewerage infrastructure that may CES demand substantial financial development. GWASCO rolls out new The commercial funding will address both medium and long-term infrastructural development. ON M ENT strategic plan to support The overall goal of the strategic area is to contribute to Kisii County government’s target of providing sustainable access delivery of clean water to potable water and preservation of the environment as set out in the CIDP (2018- Gusii Water and Sanitation Company people in urban areas of Kisii and Nyamira 2022), the Kenya Vision 2030 and SDGS. (GWASCO) launched its second Strategic Counties. It is the responsibility of County plan 2017-2022 in line with its mission to Water supply coverage in the area is Governments to provide clean and safe support multi-billion donor projects in the only at 47 per cent against a National water for domestic use to its residents. URAL R ESO UR T URAL area. coverage of 55 per cent. For more than 30 The world Health Organisation (WHO) EN VIR TE R,

The plan also supports the need to year, sewerage services have only been has set standards for the minimum quantity A have safe water supply to all residents covering 15 per cent of Kisii town and other of water per person per day for a healthy in the region by 2030 as per Sustainable urban centers in the region are served by life at 50 litres, to meet four basic needs, Development Goal (SDG) number six. exhausters run by the company. that is, drinking, sanitation, bathing and GWASCO was established to spearhead GWASCO management says the company cooking. These standards underscore the

increased water and sewerage services in look forward achieving its milestones set in importance of supplying safe water to poor N A A N D Kisii and Nyamira Counties. This, according the Strategic Plan. communities. to the Company management, has not They intend to attract increased funding Provision of clean and safe water will happened owing to low investments. from the National Government and other result in increased survival rates of County Over the years, the total installed development partners to achieve full cost residents through reduction of water-related capacity for water supply under GWASCO recovery by 2022 and increase sanitation diseases including diarrhea, dysentery, and W ENE RGY, Ltd is18,230 cubic metres from 10 water coverage to at least 90 per cent. cholera. schemes. This serves around 600,000 The plan envisions the development of OF

The Kegati water project initiated by the county government that will serve residents within Kisii municipality and it’s environs. T M ENT D E PAR

Briefing Kisii marks major milestone in Kegati water project partnership

A collaborative effort to deepen (GWASCO) is expected to increase services cover only 15 per cent water security in Kisii Town its water supply per day as well as of Kisii town, while other urban The project scope involves; and its environs saw the county increase its revenue. centers are served by exhausters - Construction of a treatment government tap development The project includes the run by the company. plant partner German KfW rehabilitated expansion of Suneka Sewerage A five-year plan for the - Storage tank at Bobaracho with Kisii to expand Kisii water supply at a treatment plant. firm, launched in July last year, a capacity of five million litres insight cost of Sh1.2 billion at Kegati. Sewerage expansion will envisions the development of - Storage tank at Nyanguru with Once complete, the project will increase uptake from the current water and sewerage infrastructure a capacity three million litres. produce water targeting more than 400 metres cubic per day to that will demand substantial - Construction of sewer lines one million people in the area. The approximately 4,000 cubic metres. finances. and water distribution lines. body managing water distribution Water supply coverage stands Commercial funding will - The County has also in Kisii and Nyamira; Gusii at 47 per cent against a national address both medium and long- rehabilitated sewer bonds. Water and Sewerage Company coverage of 55 per cent. Sewerage term infrastructural development. The Official Magazine of Residents of Kisii County Nyamokomba Government planting trees that are environmental friendly along 2020 Edition. the river. This January 1 2020 is as a result - December 31, of removing 2020 of eucalyptus trees from Grevillea seedlings that are one of the species riparian land. recommended to be environmental friendly 65

CES Eliminating water guzzlers, felling

ON M ENT the menace that is Eucalyptus trees

o reclaim its wetlands, Kisii County Government has recently undertaken a vigorous initiative that is part of a Twider County regeneration campaign by the devolved unit and other stakeholders. The campaign is anchored in the

URAL R ESO UR T URAL County’s Executive order on the removal of R, EN VIR TE R, eucalyptus trees planted on riparian land.

A Years of poor planning, coupled with the expanding need for human settlement has seen both the formal and informal sectors take over riparian areas and wetlands. Due to these prevailing circumstances the

D N A A N D County recently started demolishing structures along riparian areas. A riparian zone is a vegetated strip of land located on each side of a watercourse or adjacent to a stationary water body. These RGY, W ENE RGY, zones are ideal spots for a merger of ecological, social and economic functions. Kenya’s riparian laws state that there OF should be no permanent structures constructed between six to 30 metres of the high watermark of the river. This varies according to the size of the river. The general provision is two times the Governor James Ongwae launches the reclamation of wetlands project following the county executive river’s width with a minimum requirement order on the eucalyptus trees he issued on July 1st 2019. T M ENT of six and a max of 30 metres. Dams, oceans For years, all rivers, streams, springs, Occupants of temporary and permanent and lakes are allocated a riparian area of wetlands and catchment areas in the structures along riparian lands are polluting 100m. region have been encroached by the “water rivers through dumping of solid waste and Governor James Ongwae issued an guzzlers”. The County has been facing releasing raw sewer into the water source. executive order on July 1, 2019 which serious water scarcity issues with boreholes The County Government, working

D E PAR directed residents to cut down trees planted and other water sources drying up. together with security personnel under the on wetlands and marsh areas. Officers in charge of implementing the leadership of the County Commissioner, The order also includes demolition programme were well trained before the is determined to remove all eucalyptus of informal settlements erected on the launch. The areas affected were surveyed trees on riparian land and other fragile wetlands and riparian areas as stipulated and mapped with proper public sensitisation ecosystems. in the Environmental Management and undertaken. “Eucalyptus have been replaced and we Coordination Act of 1999, in the Laws of Other stakeholders drawn from various will continue to supply locals with suitable Kenya. departments including public health, lands, indigenous trees, natural vegetation or fruity The County Government had given 90 physical planning and urban development, trees like avocado, loquat or guava,” said Mr days to residents to willingly cut down Water Resource Users Association (WRUA), Ongwae. eucalyptus trees from water catchment National Environment Managing Authority All homesteads, social amenities like areas as they negatively affect ground water (NEMA), forestry, the office of the County schools and hospitals need to have constant level. To realise President Uhuru Kenyatta’s Commissioner, Sub County Commissioners water supply. food security agenda, the county is on chiefs and their assistants, village elders The alternative tree species will boost the course to reclaim water sources and protect and even members of Nyumba Kumi were cottage industries in the long run. rivers. Kisii also sensitised on the programme. insight Environment

have taken heed and there has County uproots been an ongoing drive to replace Eucalyptus trees on wetlands with structures from water friendly tree varieties. riparian land This move is aimed at restoring The Official the water levels in the county to To help conserve the ensure adequate water supply Magazine of environment, the county has Kisii County from the schemes and boreholes embarked on the restoration of the county has been investing in. Government wetlands and riparian areas. This Importantly, the county follows the signing of the executive government is taking over order 2/2019 by his Excellency the a number of tree nurseries 2020 Edition. Governor James Ongwae. formerly owned by the defunct county, in partnership with contaminating effluent emanating January 1 2020 The order directs the public and local authorities with a view to the multi-agency task force, is from raw sewerage and solid - December 31, mandates the relevant authorities having them operationalised, to working to remove all structures garbage. Several structures were to remove buildings, structures 2020 supply desirable tree seedlings to along rivers Nyakomisaro and demolished in the course of 2019 and the eucalyptus tree species residents in the sustained county Nyanchwa so as to ensure the to clear the areas for tree planting growing on riparian areas and re-afforestation drive. two, which cut through Kisii town and conservation. wetlands. Already, residents At the same time, the to Riana, are clear of any water 66 County Persons with Disability Welfare Association, which is headed by a president. The The department operates a card printer to facilitate registration and identification department is of Persons with Disability and we have nurturing culture, succeeded registering and issuing PWDs sports and youth talent with more than 3,000 cards. in all our nine sub Previously, PWDs used to travel to Nairobi to access this service. These cards will counties.” enable business persons with disability to - County Executive be exempted from taxes to empower them Committee Member economically. (CECM): Duke Mainga Further, the cards will help PWDs to conduct their businesses in a reserved Chief Officer: manner and be recognised and identified Caroline Nyasetia in organisations where they apply for job opportunities.

Duke Mainga Carolyne Nyaseti Community Libraries: To boost literacy and promote a reading culture, we have constructed two libraries, Ogembo Embracing a vibrant and Kenyenya, which are fully equipped and ready for community use. We endeavour to have community libraries in all the nine sub year for Kisii County counties. Support for elders’ council and

women al s e r v ic soci in sporting activities The Abagusii council of elders ince the functions related to Culture, - Development of creative cultural Elders play an integral role in promoting Youth Sports and Social Services industries and construction of cohesion, culture and peace building in the are not fully devolved, the budgetary community cultural centers as focal community. To support their activities, the obligation for such functions is under points of promoting cultural dialogue, department constructed and equipped an S office block for the Abagusii Culture and the national government. expression and as a source of However, the department is mandated to livelihood. Development Council. manage the functions outlined in the Fourth - Research, documentation, The primary role of the Abagusii council Schedule of the Constitution of Kenya 2010. preservation and dissemination of of elders is to solve inter conflicts especially These include; betting control, libraries cultural information, indigenous between its neighboring communities like and museums, sports facilities, cultural knowledge and other elements of Kalenjins in Sotik, Luos in Migori and Maasai facilities and activities. intangible cultural heritage (ICH) in Kilgoris. In the spirit of cooperation, the county - Encourage formation and registration is supplementing the national government of associations by cultural MYWO activities by allocating resources to practitioners for promotion of various

Through the Maendeleo Ya Wanawake &u l tur e , s p orts, youth support programmes targeting children, aspects of culture. Organisation (MYWO), the department women, persons with disability, sports and - Establishment of museum, libraries, sponsored women leaders from each of C affirmative action. recreation parks and conflict the nine sub-counties to undergo training resolution, cultural forums and on entrepreneurship at the Cooperative Roles mechanisms to mitigate against inter - Policy formulation, interpretation University. and intra-community conflicts. The department has also set up an office and advice, guidance, planning on all - Promotion and coordination of county for the women organization in Kisii town. cultural matters and programmes at sports the county. - Development of sporting facilities and Improvement of sports facilities - Overseeing coordination and talent search academies To provide recreational facilities and Kisii implementation of all cultural - Gambling, gaming and betting control nurture talent, the department embarked insight programmes, exchange programmes, - Social protection for the vulnerable on an initiative to improve sports facilities monitoring and evaluation. and people living with disability. across all the 45 wards in the county, - Promotion of unity, cohesion, positive - Youth and women economic starting with the Gusii Stadium which now value and integration programmes or empowerment. meets international standards as a sporting activities in cultural diversity at the facility. county. - Foster the commitment of all citizens Achievements; Gusii Stadium towards the development of the A perimeter fence has been erected The Official spirit of nationalism, patriotism and Enabling legislations and Policies around the stadium. The first phase of the Magazine of identifying heroes and heroines in the stadium project, including expansion of the - Kisii County NHIF Support Act, 2015 Kisii County county for honors. - Youth and Women Empowerment running track, inner perimeter fence, and a Government - Capacity building programmes to Fund new VIP pavilion with a capacity of 700 and empower cultural practitioners and two spectator bleachers, have been put up. communities to take part in cultural - Persons with Disability Fund At the same time, the football pitch festivals and art exhibitions at Gusii Stadium has been fitted with an 2020 Edition. - Promoting the indigenous language underground irrigation and storm water January 1 2020 Persons with disability - December 31, (ekegusii), sign language and We have mainstreamed the rights of drainage system which ensures the 2020 Kiswahili. Persons with Disability (PWDs) in the maintenance of a green Kikuyu grass tuft all - Creating awareness on cultural and county’s development agenda. The PWDs year round. intellectual property rights of the have an umbrella organisation, the Kisii people of Kisii County. 67 , , TS , S P O R , T UR E

The Kisii Culture hall complete with facilities for meetings and Ogembo community library built by the County Government. This is to boost literacy and recreation promote a reading culture among people.. C UL Already, the stadium is attracting local The department, in December last year FKF, national league football matches, hosted a cultural festival at the Kisii Culture

OF rugby sevens and major headquarters which was attended by HE the CES SE RVI SOC IAL A N D events. Governor and HE the deputy Governor. Last year the county hosted the Inter- Kisii culture has been showcased in the County Sports and Cultural Association past years and the aim has been to see how (KICOSCA) and Kenya Communication the County can preserve the culture of the Sports Organisation (KECOSO). omogusii before its eroded by the western O U TH T M ENT Y Alternative medicine culture. To promote and enhance alternative Kicosca Games medicine, the department has recognised Down Memory Lane. Governor Ongwae excites Kisii County, being a member of the residents by riding a bicycle in Kisii School where the establishment of Kenya Herbalists KICOSCA games, has participated in several hundreds of bodaboda riders were issued with riding Association, Kisii Branch, headed by a editions since the inception of the games. licences after a training supported by the office of chairman. the County MP Janet Ongera. D E PAR During the 2016 games, our county won Additionally, the department is building the most coveted soccer trophy, trouncing cultural centres in Tabaka and Suneka through the penalty towns. shootout. In 2018, Kisii County was given the Construction of town halls in Mosocho, honor to host the games and out of the wise Kenyenya and Tabaka towns are also leadership by HE the Governor the County complete. These cultural centres will host was nominated and awarded the trophy for official and public meetings. the most organised and best host of the Rehabilitation of street children KICOSCA games in the country. In 2019 KICOSCA games held in Kericho To control and rehabilitate street children, County, Kisii County Tug of War women reduce alcoholism and child prostitution, team took position one. As a result of this the department has set aside funds for the exemplary performance, they won a place construction of Kiamwasi Rehabilitation to represent team Kenya at the EALASCA Centre. games in Kampala, where they won President Uhuru Kenyatta with Governor gold medals. James Ongwae at Gusii stadium. The President Promoting Abagusii Culture applaudes the upgrade of the stadium. Gusii Stadium get makeover One of the most imposing physical features that welcomes one to Kisii town is the newly upgraded Gusii Stadium. The stand-alone facility situated right in Kisii the center of the town is a multi – purpose insight stadium mostly used for athletics and football The newly refurbished Gusii Stadium matches. The stadium was established in1940’s Government sunk a borehole within the football club hosts its home matches at the and was put under the management of the facility. Fans can access fresh drinking water stadium, the Kisii Rugby sevens also hosts its municipal council until 2013 when the Kisii from any of the 10 water points in the facility. matches at the facility. county government took over. Also, there exists two additional spectator Furthermore, the county allows the The stadium has a state of the art new dais stands and terraces built directly opposite Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK) to host and can accommodate over 20,000 people, the main dais each with a capacity to hold 700 their annual show at the stadium besides 10,000 seated on the pavilion and others fans. other official public functions. The Official on the 2 bleachers. Athletes enjoy the new The County Government has also put in In 2018 the stadium successfully hosted the Magazine of standard eight-lane running track complete plans to build six more stands as part of the 6th edition of Kenya Inter- County Sports and Kisii County with facilities for steeplechase. stadium’s long term expansion so as to attract Cultural Association (KICOSCA) and recently The stadium boasts of a smooth playing more spectators. it hosted the Kenya Communications Sports Government surface, an underground drainage and Gusii Stadium now has two new changing Organizations (KECOSO) among many high irrigation system that is used to irrigate the rooms fitted with modern amenities including profile sporting activities. grass during dry spells. an ablution block, VIP holding areas, flood Schools and colleges utilize the stadium 2020 Edition. It is only the second facility in Kenya with lights as well as parking areas. for their yearly ballgames and athletics, January 1 2020 such features after Moi International Sports One major beneficiary of this upgrade is athletics Kenya holds their events at the home team Shabana Football Club that will stadium whenever they organize races for - December 31, Centre Kasarani in . Security has been enhanced, by building use it as their home ground. Appreciating the the Western circuit. Other activities that have 2020 a perimeter wall and the erection of an inner importance of Shabana Football Club, His been hosted at the stadium include, church barrier, preventing spectators from accessing Excellency the Governor has granted the team crusades, conferences for professional groups the inner field. one-year free access to the Gusii Stadium. like KNUT, Kenya School heads associations To ensure regular water supply, the County Also the Gusii Starlets, a local female AGMS. 68 The County has rolled G out the integrated street lighting programme to improve working conditions for traders across the county and spur the growth of a 24-hour economy through improved security and longer business hours.” - County Executive Committee Member (CECM): John Momanyi

Chief Officer: Chris Njoga John Billy Momanyi Crispus Njoga

MANDATE The department draws its mandate Street lighting powers from the Urban Areas and Cities Act No. 13 of 2011; the Physical Planning Act, 2012; the Kisii Municipal Charter; the a 24-hour economy for Survey Act, (Revised) 2012 and the Land Act, 2012. residents of Kisii County It is responsible for; Land Administration, Survey and Street lighting Physical planning Mapping Item Before Current Status Land Survey and Resource Mapping • Completed beaconing of gazetted devolution Land administration forest land at Ndonyo, Nsaria Hill, Street lighting 0 65 Coordination of Urban Development Nyangweta, Ngeri Hill, Bassi Masige (high mast) within the county and Ritumbe. Solar Street 0 660 • Finalizing establishment of a lights Geographical Information System Energy Street 70 350 (GIS) lab for county resource mapping lights and preparation of a valuation roll. Vision Total 70 1,075 To achieve excellence in land • Secured land for county public management and sustainable urban projects development in Kisii County. • Worked with the National Land Kisii Municipality Commission to ensure revocation of Kisii Municipality is now one year old. titles of illegally acquired parcels of Following the enactment of the Kisii Municipal Charter, Governor James Ongwae

land in Kisii County A ND UR BA N D EVEL O PME NT mission conferred Municipality status on Kisii Town. Urban Development A board chaired by Jamaludin Shamji To be the lead department in physical Rajwani manages the Municipality. As

• Installed over 600 solar streetlights LA NDS , P HYSIC AL PLA NNIN planning, efficient land administration provided for in Section 13 of the Urban and over 60 high mast lights through and effective management of urban Areas and Cities Act, 2012, the members centres for sustainable urbanization. the integrated street lighting project to are drawn from professional associations, spur growth of a 24-hour economy. the private sector, registered associations • Contracted youth and women groups in the informal sector and neighbourhood to conduct regular clean-ups in major associations. Institutional framework: urban centres across the county. Kisii With support from the World Bank he department is comprised of four • Built urban roads and opened through the Kenya Urban Support insight directorates, which are: Physical backstreet roads in urban centres Programme (KUSP), the Municipality has TPlanning, Survey and Mapping, Land across the sub counties implemented a number of projects that have Administration and Urban Development. It • Purchased and deployed garbage impacted positively on the lives of residents. also has a Municipal Board that manages collection tractors and trailers to Kisii Municipality on behalf of the County improve efficiency in solid waste Government. management across the county. The Municipal Board • Built a bus park at Keumbu town to NAME DESIGNATION The Official improve safety of traders at the urban Jamaludin Shamji Chairman Key milestones: centre Rajwani Magazine of Physical Planning • Constructed washrooms at Keumbu, Kisii County Pius Abuki Ongeri Vice Chairman • Completed the Integrated Strategic Marani, Ogembo and other urban Government Urban Development Plan for Ogembo centres to improve working conditions Albert Otungu Board Member for traders. Town. Alfred Onwong’a Board Member • Completed the land use plan for • Constructed cabro paved pedestrian 2020 Edition. Elizabeth Orenge Board Member Nyamache Town. walkways and access roads in Kisii January 1 2020 • Finalizing land use plans for Marani, Town’s CBD. Judson Nyambane Board Member - December 31, • Working with the private sector and Masimba, Mosocho and Nyamarambe Philip Motonu Board Member 2020 urban centres to facilitate their other stakeholders to promote waste Linet Bosibori Board Member elevation to town status. reduction, re-use, recycling and energy recovery. John Billy Momanyi Board Member 69 AL AL O PM ENT , P H Y S I C ,

Pius Abuki Jamuldin Shamji Vice Chairman, Chair Municipal Board Municipal Board D E V L Key achievements so far • Construction of BLACKHOUSE A N LA N D S – CATHEDRAL – MWEMBE SDA- ETANGI road. • Rehabilitation of BOSONGO – OF BOTORI ROAD. • Construction and Completion NATIONAL BANK – ST JUDE. • Construction and Completion BANK OF AFRICA- GOLF HOUSE. One of the Farm Tractors purchased by the

T M ENT • Construction and Completion of a department to support solid waste management. very robust FIRE STATION • Construction and Completion of access road to NEW DARAJA MBILI NATIONAL CEREALS AND PRODUCE Challenges: MARKET BOARD- DARAJA MBILI BY PASS. • Encroachment onto public land • Construction and Completion • Construction and Completion of • Negative attitude of residents towards D E PAR of GALILAYA – LOMA ACADEMY BLACKHOUSE – GUSII HIGHLIGHTS public land JUNCTION ROAD DRAIN • High population density (950 inhabitants per sq.km as per the 2019 • Construction and Completion of • Construction of the Kisii Fire Station. PLA UR B A N D NN I N G census) SOKO MJINGA – GENESIS PRI – KISII EYE HOSPITAL ROAD • Protection works for drain at YWCA – DOWNSTREAM. • Protection works for drain behind UMOJA BUILDING – DOWNSTREAM. • Construction and Completion of MASHAURI JUNCTION – KISII UNIVERSITY JUNCTION (ALONG KISII- KILGORIS ROAD). • Construction and Completion of KISII PRISONS BOX CULVERT ALONG RIVER NYAKOMISARO. • Construction and Completion of BRIDGE INTERNATIONAL SCH – CATHEDRAL RD DRAIN. • Construction and Completion of Garbage collection trailer working at Keumbu market.

Kisii insight

The Official Magazine of Kisii County Government

2020 Edition. January 1 2020 - December 31, 2020

Residents study the proposed zoning map for Ogembo Town during a public participation session. 70 AL AL O PM ENT , P H Y S I C , D E V L A N LA N D S

The newly constructed Kisii County Fire Station. The station with self OF County acquires contained stand by facilities is situated next to Storm Hotel

modern fire station T M ENT and fire engines

isii County Government has number 0727600010 which is operational 24 D E PAR been experiencing challenges in hours a day. responding to disasters especially The Governor said that the vehicle has PLA UR B A N D NN I N G Kfire outbreaks because of lack of ladders that can reach up to forth flour of sufficient firefighting equipment. any building adding that the county has It also did not have well trained staff to opened all hydrants in Kisii town to ensure handle fire and other disasters. that the engines can be easily filled. When Governor James Ongwae assumed “I am happy to announce that we now office in 2013, the county relied on one have three fire engines including an old old fire truck and an ill trained disaster Renault engine which we inherited from response team. the defunct municipal council. This will Aware of the challenge and the improve our fire services,” he said adding significance of the department in the that the county will also purchase another wellbeing of residents, the County fire engine to be stationed at Ogembo to Government has significantly invested in the effectively serve the Gucha region. purchase of equipment. “A number of our officers in the fire Recently, the County Government county, but also the neighbours. department have been trained in disaster acquired a modern fire engine and a rapid The fire station is located near Storm response to ensure effective service response vehicle to enhance disaster Hotel, 300 metres from the County delivery. We will be seeking partnerships preparedness. Government offices. with established groups both locally and The vehicles were launched in September The Governor said that the county fire internationally to help us build capacity in 2019 at a ceremony officiated by Governor station, will be the biggest in Western Kenya, this area going forward,” said Mr Ongwae. Ongwae at the County Headquarters. with a capacity to operate up to four high He said, already, the officers have “The fire engines have a liquid carrying capacity fire engines, is nearing completion. undergone intense training in various capacity of 10,000 and 750 litres respectively. “This will be state-of-the-art disaster disaster management courses at Kiambu The machines are capable to effectively response and training centre which will Fire Academy sponsored by Polish Centre extinguish fierce fires without refilling. This serve the entire Lake Region,’ said Ongwae. for International Aid (PCPM) and another will ensure that hard earned investments He said the disaster department has one Co-sponsored by PCPM and Kenya Fire Kisii and lives are saved at any given time,” said developed a crisis management plan which Brigade Association (KENFIBA). insight Mr Ongwae during the launch. is due for ratification by the Cabinet. During the launch of the machines, the The County Government has constructed During the launch of the firefighting then acting commissioner Leonard Mgute a major fire station in town that will also vehicles, Mr Ongwae told residents to report and the Kisii County Assembly Speaker be used as a training centre for disaster disaster outbreaks using emergency call David Kombo commended the Governor for management, not only for the benefit of the acquiring the machines. Kombo recalled that in 2017, the county experienced numerous fire accidents especially in schools saying the incidents The Official will be a thing of the past and urged the Magazine of emergency team to be on a high alert. Kisii County Dr Walter Okibo who is the Government Administration, Cooperate Service and Stakeholder Management CEC said that with the coming of the fire engines, the 2020 Edition. county will be able to respond swiftly to January 1 2020 all forms of disasters thereby serving - December 31, stakeholders effectively. 2020 Dr. Okibos department is responsible for the management of fire disaster equipment.

The newly purchased Fire engines. 71 Infrastructure development is an enabler of economic growth. To cut transport costs and improve access to markets, the department is investing in road infrastructure development across the county.” COUNTY EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER (CECM) – Mr. Vincent Sagwe

-Chief Officers: Osoro Okondo (Roads) Abel Sagini (Public Works and Housing) Vincent Sagwe Nicodemus Okondo Abel Sagini OF RO A DS , Government expands road network to create linkages for county farmers ne of the key priorities of the County Government is opening up the county for development. MANDATE The opening up of villages routes The mandate of this sector is to O provide and manage engineering to motorable transport is boosting access works and services within the and enabling farmers to deliver their jurisdiction of the County. These works produce to the market within reasonable and services include development time. and maintenance of infrastructure, This mandate rests in the Department of maintenance of motor vehicles and Roads, Public Works and Transport. heavy equipment, licensing of public The department is making use of the motor vehicles and development little available funds to deliver a good road control. network across the county. This is because, road infrastructure P ORT A NS WOR K S & TR development remains a key priority area in Vision Governor James Ongwae’s government. To be the leading provider of However, it must be noted that only a engineering works, goods and small fraction of funds available for roads services within Kenya. D EPA RT ME NT development is accessible to County A bridge at Keera, when it was under governments. A huge junk of the resources construction by the County Government. are held by the national government. Sadly, when a road becomes impassable, mission residents direct their eyes and rage to the To provide quality engineering works, county government with little understanding goods and services to enhance the that roads are classified. development and maintenance of Nevertheless, the county government infrastructure within the jurisdiction is opening and continuously maintaining a of County.

P U BL IC number of County and Village roads. In order to achieve the most from the little fuel levy fund have been negatively affected resources available, the county entered into following significant reductions in annual a contract with the Mechanical Transport allocations. Kisii Fund (MTF) in 2017. However, under this arrangement the insight Since then, the MTF has helped us open, county government will lay 526 kilometres grade and compact 546 kilometres of roads of roads by the close of this Financial Year across the 45 wards. 2019/2020. Plans are underway to grade five to eight To provide timely and quick solutions kilometres of roads in each ward totalling in the servicing of county vehicles, 250 kilometres. the government has established and However, this has been constrained by operationalsed the County Mechanical Unit. The Official heavy rains which caused the depletion of This has helped to reduce fleet maintenance gravelled deposits. costs. Magazine of Moving forward, the county government The mechanical department has Kisii County will be exploring alternative road been further organised to also provide Government construction materials and techniques professional building mechanical services which will withstand the vagaries of weather. such as design drawings and inspection To ease transport challenges and boost of county building projects to ensure 2020 Edition. market access for agricultural produce, the they adhere and conform to mechanical January 1 2020 county government is doing at least one road standards. - December 31, in each ward every Financial Year. The unit is in the process of repairing 2020 In this Financial Year, 90kms of village and rehabilitating all County Machines roads have been done. and Heavy Equipment to ensure they are Roads which are developed courtesy available for utilisation in supporting road of a conditional grant from the national maintenance, opening and construction. Matibo - Nyasike Road in Nyaribari Masaba. 72 government under the road maintenance T D T RA NS P O R A N D

County excavator on site. The county has been opening up a number of roads across the 45 wards, every Financial Year. WO RK S , PU B LI C , AD S O R OF T M ENT Makutano- Nyankongo - Getare road built by the county government. D E PAR

Kisii insight

The Official Magazine of Kisii County Government

2020 Edition. January 1 2020 - December 31, 2020

Rehabilitation of Itongo Bumburia road. 73 T

D T RA NS P O R A N D Kisii County leadership

WO RK S embarks on driveways expansion , PU B LI C ,

spree, deals One of the graders purchased by the County Government. The County has built over 500 kilometres of compacted murram roads in the wards. AD S hen we took office seven years

O ago, our task was to establish the National Government agencies to roads, the rate of wear and tear went up governance structures, rehabilitate classified roads according to because maintenance of the equipment was R institutionalise devolution and lay the Fourth Schedule of the Constitution, the outsourced. W County government has still taken initiative We have operationalised a county the foundation for a prosperous Kisii County. Today, the administration is proud that we to maintain such roads over time. mechanical unit where all the machines OF have established a government serving the These include some critical roads and government vehicles are serviced people of Kisii County. within Kisii Municipality such as: The and maintained by our own mechanical According to the fourth schedule of Gusii Stadium-Itierio road which has engineers thereby reducing operational the Constitution of Kenya 2010, County undergone major re-carpeting works and costs. Governments are responsible for the the Makutano-Nyankongo-Getare road However, overall, the challenges facing which has been re-carpeted by the county our bid to improve the county road network

T M ENT construction and maintenance of rural access roads. government and is already in use. has been the unavailability of adequate The Department of Roads, Public Equally, the county has successfully reserves coupled with encroachment Works and Transport is responsible for the reconstructed and expanded the bridge on and this occasionally pits the county on a management of engineering works and Nyakomisaro River near Kisii Prisons/Storm collision course and litigation with residents. services, roads department, maintenance hotel which is on a National Government Topographical formations in Kisii border

D E PAR of infrastructure, motor vehicles and heavy road. is in the extremes; from swampy areas to hilly and rocky areas hence consuming machinery. Item Before Current a lot of resources in the course of road To achieve the above mandate we devolution situation construction. the Executive together with the County (km) (km) Assembly have to raft and pass the following This has been countered by the use of Tarmacked 123.8 210 legislations to aid in effective service the MTF mode where we are able to cost roads delivery. affordably and source more machinery Kisii The laws include the Kisii County Graveled roads 340.2 1,330.9 relevant to the topographies. insight Transport Act 2014 – to help streamline the Earth roads 669 1,826 Besides, the decision to use labor based approach ensures a cost effective means transport system within the county and the Total 1133 3157 Kisii County Mechanical and Transport Fund of constructing our roads apart from being Bill –to help mobilise resources through an avenue for employment creation for the hiring of plant and machinery. Mechanical Directorate locals especially the youth. Before devolution, Kisii County had 1,133 To boost efficiency and cut costs in road The county has purchased the following kilometres of classified roads and 962kms construction and maintenance, the county equipment to aid in road construction: of rural access roads out of which 123.8kms purchased road construction equipment The Official were tarmacked and 1,009.2kms were rural including graders, tipper trucks, drum Acquired Plant and Machinery Magazine of access roads. rollers, excavators, low loaders and shovels. ITEM BEFORE CURRENT Kisii County Cognisant of the importance of a good As part of AIA generation, the equipment is also available to contractors and also DEVOLUTION STATUS Government road network for economic development, the county embarked on opening, graveling available to the general public for hire. Graders 1 4 and grading of the new rural access roads to However, the county sometimes falls Excavators - 3 back to labour based modes of basic road Rollers - 3 2020 Edition. boost access to markets and ease transport construction especially in bush clearing Shovels - 1 January 1 2020 challenges. The county has constructed 1,505kms where the youth come in handy. This has Tippers 1 5 - December 31, promoted the construction of more roads in 2020 of rural access roads including 815kms of Garage 0 1 compacted graveled roads and is opening a timely schedule while cutting cost. Total 2 16 690kms of new roads in sub-counties. It is worthy to note that with the increase Even if it is the responsibility of of the number of machinery and the heavy workload we encountered while opening 74 T Key Milestones Since 2013 Urban Development Kisii Town has now attained Municipality status and has a functional municipal board that manages it operations. In improving trading conditions, the County has invested in various programmes.

Street lighting Urban roads and bus parks D T RA NS P O R A N D To enhance access and decongest the CBD, several access roads have been opened thereby increasing business 24 hours economy . The installation activities as a result. Some of the roads opened include: of street lights has enhanced security in • Makutano Junction-Nyankongo-Getare Road major towns and markets in Kisii Town • Keumbu Bus Park resulting in increased trading hours. • Ogembo Bus Park

Before Current WO RK S Item • Daraja Moja-Culture Hall road-under construction devolution Status • Ram Hospital-Tuskys chingware road Street lighting (high 0 65 • Hass Petrol-Umoja Centre road mast) • KCB- A M Tailor road Solar Street • Kanyoni -Masaba Hardware 0 660 lights • Dan’s hotel-Nyachae flats Energy Street PU B LI C , 70 350 • Capital Round-Main stage lights • All walkways in Kisii CBD Total 70 1,075 • Parking at outside the stadium AD S O

1,075 R Integrated street lighting OF T M ENT

Some of Solar powered street lights in Kisii Town. Over 25 ... e been

erected in the town boosting a 24 hour economy D E PAR Sanitation blocks Spatial Plans

The County has constructed washrooms across urban centres To coordinate infrastructure development in our urban cen- improving sanitation and easing the functioning of the tres we have developed spatial plans in the following urban business community. areas: Ogembo, Marani, Mosocho, Nyamarambe, Kenyenya, Kisii Urban Centre Before devolution Current status Nyamache. insight Kisii CBD 3 10 Keumbu 1 3 Keroka 1 3 Waste Management Masimba 1 2 Nyamache 1 2 The County has invested in infrastructure in management Ogembo 1 3 of solid waste which has improved hygiene as summarized Suneka 1 2 Marani 1 2 below: Kenyenya 1 2 The Official Nyamarambe 1 2 Before Magazine of Item Current Status devolution Kisii County Disaster Management Government Land fill (waste management sites) 0 2 (Nyatieko, Etora) To avert risks the County has invested in disaster manage- ment infrastructures as summarized; Garbage trucks 0 2 2020 Edition. January 1 2020 Item Before Devolution Current status - December 31, Tractors and trailers 1 5 Fire engines 1 2 2020 Fire station 0 1 Cleaning groups 1 22 75 Agriculture department pockets top prize for seemless service delivery The Department of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Co-operative Development was ranked the best performing county ministry in Kisii in 2019 following a performance Q a nd A evaluation conducted by an independent consultant hired by the County. Our reporter Joshua Araka spoke to the CECM for Agriculture Mr Esman Onsarigo

Q. Your department was recently ranked number one out of 10 in 1terms of service delivery. What strategies did you put in place to achieve that position? A. As a team leader, I always ensure that there is teamwork across all the directorates. We delivered our Performance Management Unit (PMU) reports in time.

What makes your Department more than 500 youths will have been importation. Moreover, fertilisers should different from the rest? empowered. The number of women not be mixed with foodstuffs, not sold The department offers real time in poultry and dairy-goats farming has in open air markets and in opened bags 2 been increasing over time. Our role is to and should be compliant of Pest Control practical approach on modern agricultural technology trainings and demonstrations provide the necessary training, visits and Products Board (PCPB). The seeds to both farmers and stakeholders. This access to markets. should meet packaging and expiry dates/ has helped improve on the capacity of shelf-life requirements. For seedlings, growers hence improved food security and Land sub-division is a challenge the nursery operators must be KEPHIS household income. in Kisii. What are you doing to compliant and issued with operator’s 6discourage residents from the license by the Crops Directorate. Artificial Insemination (A.I) culture? is one of the milestones in Productivity is adversely affected by Tell us briefly about fish farming your department. How is it small farm sizes in the county which on in the County. 3 average ranges from 0.5 to one acre. Fish farming or aquaculture is implemented? 8 The County offers quality affordable Theses sizes of land are uneconomical the farming of aquatic organisms that semen across the 45 wards. Service for agricultural production. Sub-division include finfishes, molluscs, crustaceans providers are adequately equipped and is a cultural practice that ensure the sons and aquatic plants in controlled or semi are located strategically in all ward in the family inherit land. Inappropriate controlled environments. Management offices. We charge a subsidised fee land use policies and scramble for activities include interventions such as of Sh500 per insemination down from human resettlement (purchase and stocking, feeding and protection from Sh3,500 offered by private providers. selling of land for residential purposes) both diseases and predators with the aim are also some of the factors fueling land of enhancing productivity. Kisii is blessed To what extent have residents sub-division. In order to address and curb with an abundance of water which is a Kisii benefitted from A.I? continuous sub-division of agricultural prerequisite for the establishment of an insight So far, we have inseminated land the County is working on appropriate aquaculture enterprise. Currently, the 4 legislative policy, sensitisation on cultural potential from the existing ponds stands more than 89,441 dairy cows since the A.I programme commenced. More change and dissemination of urban and at close to 512 metric tonnes per annum than 64,136 calves have been born from peri-urban agricultural technologies that worth more than Sh128 million. The main various wards since the programme utilise and intensify production in the species of fish cultured are tilapia begun in June 2016. Farmers are now small pieces of land. (Oreochromis niloticus) and Catfish better equipped in dairying. Our farmers (Clarias gariepinus). no longer incur costs for rearing of bulls. What are you doing to ensure The Official that farmers embrace the use of Your Parting shot. Magazine of More importantly, incidences of breeding diseases have been reduced. 7quality and certified farm inputs? More support for the sector Kisii County We engage our inspectorate and 9in terms of resource allocation Government What are you doing to uplift the regulatory services in conjunction with is needed. Ten per cent of the County poor, especially through poultry Kenya Vet Board (KVB) and Veterinary Budget should be channeled to the and goat rearing? Medicines Directorate (VMD) to sector as per the Maputo and Malabo 2020 Edition. 5 undertake constant sensitisations and declarations. This will help us deliver the The County Poultry Improvement January 1 2020 Programme is a project for the poor in insist that sellers must be KEPHIS Governor’s manifesto, SDGs, Vision 2030 - December 31, compliant. Our clients are told to ensure and the Big Four agenda. Thank you to all 2020 the society. More than 150 youth groups have been given start-up material, that the container/bags are labeled and sector holders including our farmers who knowledge and skills to start commercial sealed in original containers and in its made these achievements possible. chicken production. In the next two years original state at the time of purchase or 76 Governor James Ongwae with World Bank Sanitation and Water Officer Dr Yolanda Coombes addressing the media after a Sanitation and Hygiene forum in Kisii. gageme nt

Some of the vehicles donated to Kisii County by the Rotary Club of Coventry to enhance disaster management a nd di pl o ma cy activities in Kisii County.

Chairman of the Gigawatt Global Yosef Abramowitz consults with Governor Ongwae when they met in Eilat, Israel. Kisii County sets up new unit to liaise with D onor e n donors, partners to top up exchequer cash

The County Government of It also cordinates and support Kisii has set up a Donor Liaison creation of concept notes, Unit whose responsibility is proposals and reports by working to initiate relationship and with relevant program teams to engagement with donors and ensure timely submissions. potential partners. Since inception, the unit has Kisii Governor James Ongwae (right) and Minnesota State’s Fire Chief and The recently created unit is coordinated and arranged quite Commander Kenneth Prillaman look at some of the modern fire safety equipment they donated to the County. domiciled in the Office of The a number of donor engagement Governor under the Directorate activities including high profiled Israeli of Communication, Donor Liaison interactions between Governor Ambassador and Protocol Services. James Ongwae and the American to Kenya Noah The unit has been working to Ambassador to Kenya Kyle Gal Gendler enhance relations with donors Mc Carter and also the Israeli confiring with especially in areas underfunded Ambassador to Kenya Noah Kisii Governor by the exchequer. Gal Gendler to discuss matters insight James Ongwae The decision to set up a Donor related to possible partnerships when the county boss Liaison Unit was born out the in investment and possible paid him a conviction that resources availed development. courtesy call to the county through the National Several potential partners at the embassy Treasury may not always be and investors interested in in Nairobi in enough to help pursue delivery of green energy, agriculture, waste 2019 services as desired by the County disposals and water related government. projects have also visited and The Official Attraction of interested donors engaged the county government Magazine of and partners can help establish courtesy of the unit. Kisii County additional resource basket for The unit is currently the benefit of the people of Kisii mobilising partners to facilitate Government County. the equipping of the newly The unit officially established constructed fire station with in May 2019, is also mandated to additional donated fire-fighting 2020 Edition. work with varous county teams to machinery and ambulances. January 1 2020 engage and cultivate prospective A Rotary Club in the United - December 31, donors and opportunities. Kingdom has offered donations 2020 Further, the unit is also of two fire engines and two expected to develop a grants accompanying ambulances to Turkish Ambassador to Kenya, Deniz Eke and Kisii County Governor James calendar and to track fundraising support the course. Ongwae when the Ambassador and her delegation visited the county. opportunities. 77 e 2013

Governor James Ongwae applauding the First Lady H.E Margaret Kenyatta after she unveiled a plaque at KTRH during ground breaking for the MCH. cts sinc to p 10 roj e cts

First Lady Margaret Kenyatta laying a foundation block for the construction of the Mother Child A multipurpose value addition centre that will Health Centre at KTRH as Governor Ongwae looks on. mainly serve as an avocado processing centre. Kisii insight

The Official Magazine of Kisii County Sombogo Tea factory Government

2020 Edition. January 1 2020 - December 31, 2020

The newly constructed Kisii County Fire Station. 78 Kisii County Governor James Ongwae flags off road construction

equipment bought by the county. They include graders, shovels, tippers, 2013 s i nce ojects Ongoing upgrade of Kegati water project excavators and low loaders. pr The newly refurbished Gusii Stadium 10 10 p to

The nearly complete kisii county banana factory. It will boost banana farming by providing readly available market for the commodity. Kisii insight

The Official Magazine of Kisii County Government

The newly constructed 250-bed capacity ward 2020 Edition at Kisii Teaching and January 1 2020 Referral Hospital. - December 31, This has greatly 2020 reduced congestion in the previous wards. Masakwe Vocational Training Centre constructed by Kisii County Government at Sensi Ward. The county government is looking forward to setting up VTCs in every ward. 79 THADEUS MAKORI now reach various markets in time without spoilage. - Resident, Bobasi As a result of a good road network, As a resident of Bobasi, I am residents have been able to venture thankful to the Kisii County into other income generating Government for the superb road activities. network in our area. For instance the bodaboda industry We have seen many roads being has flourished because of good opened and others being upgraded passable roads. Cases of insecurity and maintained. For so many years, and crime have decreased since our those roads have been impassable youth are fully engaged in gainful especially during the rainy seasons. employment. Our agricultural produce can

WYCLIFFE MATONGO specialised treatment and cuts referrals to – Resident, Bomachoge Borabu to Kisii Hospital. One of the landmark structures in I want to thank the County Government Kenyenya town is the newly constructed of Kisii for undertaking numerous market. The market has enabled traders to development projects in Bomachoge sell their wares in a secure environment. Borabu. Finally, I thank the County Government A resident, we have greatly benefitted for the construction of a community library from the opening of feeder roads that to help our people who like reading to connect most parts of Bomachoge Borabu. access literally materials. New facilitises have been opened at the We are keeenly awaiting its opening so Kenyenya Sub-County Hospital. We now that the benefits can be felt. have a theatre at the facility which offers

JOHN OKEYO services. This is way below the average of Sh3,500 which we initially used to – Resident, Nyaribari Chache pay for the service before the advent of I thank Governor James Ongwae devolution. We have now gotten rid of for introducing subsidised Artificial bulls. Insemination (A.I). This has controlled Apart from reproduction, bulls did the spread of disease amongst our not fulfill any other needs in our homes. cattle. I have also gotten quality calves Since land has diminished, majority of from the project. Bulls offer poor quality farmers no longer use oxen to till. offsprings. Additionally, the A.I services I thank the Governor for saving us from the county are a phone call away. I the burden of taming bulls which in thank the Governor for this project. turn gave us poor quality calves and The county is charging Sh500 for A.I increased feeding expenses. ’ V I E W V O X P P- R E SID NTS HELLEN TORORI The construction of walk ways has also - Resident, Nyaribari Masaba enabled pedestrians walk safely along the roads preventing congestion along the Since I started using A.I, my cows’ yield streets. We appreciate these efforts. has been impressive. I now get quality However, we urge the county government Kisii calves. I also do not need bulls at home. I to look into the drainage system in town. insight encourage other farmers to embrace A.I Flood waters from heavy rains, commonly because it is very cheap. You only pay Sh500 associated with Kisii, becomes a major and the inseminator comes to your home. menace during the wet seasons. I salute Governor James Ongwae for this noble idea.

The Official JERUSA MORAA ONSONGO tremendously changed the business Magazine of landscape of this area. We can now do Kisii County – Resident, Kitutu Chache North business for longer hours and earn Government I take this opportunity to thank more income. Governor James Ongwae for the Initially, weather conditions were effort he has put in place ensuring very hash but now we have a roof over 2020 Edition. development is brought closer to our our heads. Thank you to the county January 1 2020 area. government for constructing such a - December 31, I must mention the construction of market that has accommodated many. 2020 Gesieka market and the erecting of solar powered street lights which have 80 SIMBA JOSEPH the sixth edition of the Kenya Inter Counties – Sports Enthusiast, Kisii Sports and Cultural Association (KICOSCA)

which brought together teams from all VI EW ’ Gusii stadium is one of the best stadiums counties. The facility played a key role, since in Kenya. Before devolution, the stadium was most of the games were conducted within in a terrible state. Thanks to devolution, the the stadium. stadium has received a major face lift and is This year, the 40th Kenya Communications now able to attract various sports activities. Sports Organisation (KECOSO) games were Our local Premier League side, Shabana also held here. FC and the Gusii Starlets host their home Kisii RFC is equally using Gusii stadium as matches at the stadium. This gives our their home ground during their games hence people the opportunity to watch this matches boosting talent among our people. live. The facility is also accessible for other In 2018, Kisii County successfully hosted uses.

CYPRIAN KARURU ES ID ENTS P O P-R X - Resident, Bomachoge Chache As a young person, I want to commend the County Government for the work it has done on our youth polytechnics. Most of our young men and women who complete V O Class Eight and Form Four have an opportunity to enrol in the youth polytechnics and take a course of their choice. This will minimise idleness and enable the youth engage in income generating activities.

JULIUS NYANDIKA water springs, development of markets and – Resident, Bonchari many more. Our Sub County hospital has been For many years, Bonchari had been elevated to a level four hospital and has referred to as the most underdeveloped been offering specialised treatment. We area in Kisii. That has since changed thanks no longer have to go to Kisii Teaching to the County Government. and Referral Hospital in search of basic We thank the County Government for an treatment. improved road network, rehabilitation of

ONKANGI SAMWEL As a bodaboda rider, I wish to acknowledge the work that our – Resident, South Mugirango governor has done on our roads, Kisii I commend the County Government especially village roads. for the work it has done on ECDE. The Our movement has been made insight County has constructed hundreds of easier. ECDE classrooms and hired teachers. We only ask the County This has relieved us of the burden Government to repair and maintain of paying for teachers’ salaries those roads and drainage systems and construction of classrooms. that have been destroyed by heavy The learning environment in these rains. centres has greatly improved The Official learning for our pupils. Magazine of Kisii County Government

2020 Edition. January 1 2020 - December 31, 2020

81 Kisii County has a healthy relationship with the National Government. In this photo, Governor Ongwae interacts with National Government officials led by Interior and National Coordination Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiangi, when the team visited Kisii for the opening of an Immigration office. al s Pictori

USAID mission director to Kenya Mark Meassick share a light moment with Governor James Ongwae when he paid him a courtesy call

Performance contracting session for Executive Committee Members

Kisii insight

The Official Magazine of Kisii County Government

Governor James Ongwae shares a light moment with a 2020 Edition. delegation from KfW German January 1 2020 partners when they visited - December 31, him. The county government 2020 in collaboration with the partners are committed to improving various water projects in the county. 82 Governor James Ongwae (R) hands over a motorcycle to Kisii bodaboda Sacco led by their chairman Michael Mose (C) during the end of bodaboda football rial s P i cto tournament at Gusii Stadium in January, 2015.

Governor James Ongwae consulting with Israeli Minister of National infrastructure, energy and Governor Jame Ongwae presents a gift to the water resources former U.S. Ambassador to Kenya Robert Godec during a past conference in Eilat-Israel in 2018.

Governor James Ongwae receives Chief Kisii Governor James Ongwae chats with a team from Sustainable Economic Justice in his office. Looking Development Programme (SUED) led by their National Director Simion Eliot on is Deputy Governor Joash Maangi. (centre) outside his office after they paid him a courtesy visit.

Kisii insight

Governor James Ongwae duringa a photo session with other Kisii leaders shortly after the 2017 General Election

The Official Magazine of Governors Mutahi Kisii County Kahiga (Nyeri), Prof Peter Nyong’o Government (Kisumu) and John Nyagarama (Nyamira) share 2020 Edition a light moment with their host and January 1 2020 colleague James - December 31, Ongwae (Kisii) at 2020 his office. 83 Performance contracting for timely, deepened service delivery

PERFORMANCE offices as the case maybe. - Establish and abolish ic e b o a rd MANAGEMENT Section 47 of the County Offices in the County Governments Act 2012 Public service provides that each County - Appoint persons to hold or act in offices of the Executive Committee shall Evans Mamboleo. Chairman design a performance, County Public Service management plan to evaluate including in the boards the performance of the County of cities and urban areas Public Service. within the County and to The county has introduced confirm appointments. performance management - Exercise disciplinary and as a strategy to entrench control over, and remove, delivery of and timely services persons holding or acting to the public. All CECS, Chief in those Offices. Officers and staff have been - Prepare regular reports put on performance contracts for submission to the and appraisal system County Assembly on the respectively. execution of the functions Through this system, of the Board. members of the public - Promote in the County have a means to assess the Public service the values performance of senior officers and principles referred to in Article 10 and 232 against the resources that Vincent Mirera. Secretary Jackson Bogonko. Member have been allocated to their of the Constitution: ic s e r v Pu bl ic departments. - Evaluate and report to the The performance County assembly on the contracting system is extent to which the values therefore an objective means and principles referred of rewarding and apportioning to in Articles 10 and 232 appropriate sanctions of the Constitution are accordingly as per contract complied with in the terms. County Public service. - Facilitate the County Public Service development of coherent, integrated human Board (CPSB) resource planning and The County Public Service budgeting for personnel Board is anchored in the emoluments in counties Constitution of Kenya 2010, - Advise the County Kisii Article 235(1) and Section 57 government on human insight of the County Government resource management Act, 2012 with the primary and development: responsibility of building a John Machuka. Member Jeriah Sangae. Member - Advise County strong County Public Service government on by attracting, retaining and implementation and developing human resource monitoring of the capacity and institutional national performance capability for effective and The Official management system in efficient social economic counties; Magazine of transformation at the - Make recommendations Kisii County grassroots. Government to the Salaries and Remuneration The Functions of the Commission, on behalf of County Public Service the County Government, 2020 Edition. Board includes; on the remuneration, January 1 2020 - Restructuring through pensions and gratuities - December 31, establishment and for County Public service 2020 abolition of county offices employees. and appointing persons to hold or act in those Nancy Nyamwange. Member Patrick Momanyi. Member 84

County employees tap comprehensive NHIF cover in revolutionary agreement a ry

orkers in Kisii County Government are now enjoying a comprehensive National Hospital WInsurance Fund (NHIF) cover. The cover, which has been operational since July 2019 after the County government signed a contract with NHIF, is greatly benefiting county employees and their dependants. Celebrated by all staff, the cover has addressed the burden of raising cash for medical bills individually. The comprehensive health insurance cover encompases inpatient, outpatient,

prescription drugs, maternity, optical, e O ffic e of th dental, last expense and group life cover. The inpatient cover package includes hospital accommodation, nursing care, diagnostic, laboratory or other medically necessary facilities and services. Physicians, Surgeons, anesthetics or physiotherapists fees are also catered for besides operating theatre charges, e t ounty Se cr specialist consultations and all drugs

dressing or medications prescribed by the C treating physician for in-hospital use. Day care services for surgery and medical services deemed fit by the physician as defined in NHIF benefit package are also catered for. Members also benefit from pre- hospitalization charges including laboratory, X-ray or other necessary medical diagnostic procedures which results in a member getting admitted. Other services like Local Road ambulance services for transportation and We are keen to ensure transfer of a sick member or dependant that civil servants for treatment from a place of incident working for the county or facilities where adequate care is not available to the next available NHIF government benefit from a accredited hospital. good medical insurance cover” Emergency air rescue services are provision of a comprehensive medical, last – Patrick Lumumba provided for transportation and transfer expense and Group life cover for county of an injured member to a facility where employees between the National Hospital adequate hospital or medical facility. Insurance Fund (NHIF) and the Kisii County Kisii Governor James Ongwae noted that his Government,” he added. ‘We are keen to ensure that civil servants insight administration came up with the initiative Ongwae thanked NHIF for agreeing to working for the county government benefit owing to the increasing cost of accessing provide medical cover for the county staff, from a good medical insurance cover’ said medication making it difficult for individuals putting them in the same level with their the county secretary. to cater for their own medical bills and counterparts in the mainstream civil service A staffer, Periz Bonareri Moturi attested those of their dependants. in matters hospital insurance. that the cover is helping workers access He said, to help raise funds for medical “The core business and mandate for timely medical attention with ease. bills, individuals find it necessary to NHIF is to provide accessible, affordable, “Employees don’t have to worry on how involve their friends, relatives and ad hoc sustainable and quality health insurance for they will foot medical bills for self and The Official fundraisers have been the order of the day. all Kenyan citizens and that is why I engaged dependants in both outpatient and inpatient Magazine of “I am sure each one of us has been the medical scheme to help insure my staff treatment, a scenario which sometimes Kisii County listed in a number of ‘WhatsApp’ groups in line with the Universal Health Coverage affects work output,” said Moturi. Government sometimes involuntarily and whereas it (UHC) programme,” said the Governor. In the medical scheme, the principal is not bad to pool resources to bail out a County Secretary Patrick Lumumba said members of the cover are employees of the friend, the frequency of such has been a the government has made staff welfare a Kisii County Government who are actively in burdensome worrying trend,” lamented top priority adding that the NHIF premium service. It covers the principal member, one 2020 Edition. Governor Ongwae. cover is meant to support county workers declared spouse and five children. January 1 2020 “The scenario calls for a lasting solution who for a long time have had to resort to However, a member may add dependent - December 31, and that is why I initiated an arrangement out of pocket expenditures when faced with children, at an additional individual 2020 which culminated in the contract for the medical emergencies. premium. 85 ounty o mm ission e r C

Stephene Kihara. Kisii County Commissioner • Public works • Access to government procurement Huduma Mashinani (AGPO) They also provide other major services including tose from state law that registers brings services closer companies, state departments, name searches and reservations and also registration of groups under social services. The Ethics and Anti-Corruption to rural populations Commission also has a dominant presence at the centre. They also have CRB curity - C ounty Se curity This is the most innovative government ore than 2,000 people visit the Kisii clearances, police abstract and certificate of programme in Kenya where citizens get County Huduma Centre everyday. good conduct departments which are very

C most of the government services under one This is an increase from 800 active. roof within a short period. people who used to seek services The Office of the Ombudsman has M The programme has been praised by from them in the initial stages. also been established at the centre. Kenyans, especially in Kisii, where residents All this has been so due to an awareness This is helpful to the public in raising used to travel long distances to Nairobi in programme being run by the centre. and registering their complaints to the search of services. According to David Jones, the station’s government. They deliver over 25 services to the citizen Kisii deputy manager, the centre takes services to Some of the services which previously of Kisii County. insight rural communities through the programme took three weeks to be effected in the past These services include: dubbed Huduma Mashinani. are now done in a single day. • Providing birth certificates (within “We want to create awareness for our Huduma Centres are found in regions 2days) people and take our services closer to them. such as Nairobi, , Kisumu, Mombasa, • Pensions (with follow up) This will save them time and resources that Nakuru, Nyeri, and other major towns • KRA pin would have otherwise been used for travel to in Kenya. • HELB loans Kisii to seek the services,” said Jones. In its efforts to improve service delivery, The centre has also introduced a piloting the Government of Kenya is using Huduma The Official system and shifts which extend its working Kenya as a platform for efficiency and Magazine of hours. We want to create orderliness for government institutions Kisii County All these, according the manager, will go awareness for our offering crucial services to the people. Government a long way in improving service delivery. people and take our These are one-stop shops, citizen service This kind of arrangement can also be services closer to them. This centres that provide National Government found in Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu. services from a single location. The centres Services offered at Huduma Centre will save them time and 2020 Edition. are built to enhance transparency, efficiency include processing ID Cards, birth January 1 2020 resources that would have and easy accessibility for all. certificates, National Hospital Insurance - December 31, otherwise been used for travel Huduma Centres have become one of Fund and National Social Security Fund 2020 the most reliable units in Kenya since the cards, Kenya Revenue Authority pins, to Kisii to seek the services” – David Jones Jubilee government took over leadership Certificate of Good Conduct and many other and they have since then gained massive services. popularity across the country. 86 Unveiling the Kisii immigration office ince Interior Cabinet secretary Fred mandatory for one to possess a passport Ongwae. Matiangi inaugarated an Immigration before applying,” said Okal. Ezra Otondi, a Kisii resident could not Centre in Kisii, residents no longer He asked applicants who are yet to collect hide his joy after he successfully applied for Sneed to travel to access passport their passports to do so. his passport at the Kisii Immigration Office. services in Nairobi. The new facility has “However, more than 900 passports are “I am very happy since I have been able been a bee hive of activity with residents lying at the Kisii Immigration office despite to apply for my passport right here in town. swarming the office for the much needed the fact that the owners have been notified I know I would have had to travell to either o mmi ss i one r document. through short text messages (SMS) to Kisumu or Nairobi if CS Matiang’i had not The centre, which opened its doors to collect them,” he lamented. thought of this idea,” Otondi said. C the public in May this year, is part of plans “I ask residents of Kisii and the This has offered relief to residents y seeking to ease congestion in the issuance neighboring counties to seize this who have been spending days on end in of the new digital passports at Nyayo House, opportunity and apply for their passports Kisumu or Nairobi to apply and collect their Nairobi which houses the headquarters of here. We are very ready and willing to serve passports. The move has saved residents the Immigration Department.

you,” Mr Okal added. from lots of costs associated with traveling o u nt According to the Immigration Okal continued: “Majority of the long distances for the document. Department, this will enhance national people had visited the facility either as Some of those who applied for their security and social economic development fresh passport applicants or seeking the passports in Kisumu say it was not only time C -

by maintaining a comprehensive population e-passports.” consuming but tedious as well. y database, proper migration management Kisii Town is strategically located in the Kisiis are known to be go getters and this and timely registration and issuance of Western circuit owing to the number of regional office will catapult their appetite for secure identification documents. Counties it borders, making it a strategic travel in search of green pastures abroad. Reports show that more than 11,000 new point to set up the immigration office. This is evidenced by the number of people passport applications have been received Kisii Governor James Ongwae praised the especially in the United States of America since the office opened its doors in May government’s choice of Kisii Town to set up which has sufficient number of Kisiis in New 2019 . the immigration office. Jersey, Minnesota and North Carolina. During an interview in his office, Mr Peter

During the official opening of the facility It is important to note that the S ec uri t Okal, the officer in charge, said they receive in Kisii Town, Mr Ongwae said that it will government started the issuance of the y between 120 and 150 new applicants daily ease the process of acquiring passports for E-passport in September 2017 and gave but the numbers are set to decrease once those who seek to travel abroad. a two-year period for those who have the the rush for international job offers close. “I commend the National Government machine-readable (old) passports to renew “We have been experiencing a high for opening an immigration office in Kisii them, after which they will become invalid.

number of applications especially during County and particularly in Kisii Town. Our The Immigration Department has also o u nt the US lottery applications window after people no longer need to travel all the way opened passport control offices in Eldoret, C the United States government made it to Kisumu or Nairobi for passports,” said Mr Nakuru, Embu and .

Kisii insight

The Official Magazine of Kisii County Government

2020 Edition. January 1 2020 - December 31, 2020 Interior CS Dr Fred Matiangi when he opened an immigration office in Kisii. This office is key in facilitating issuance and renewal of travel documents. 87 E g Instilling a sense of prudent financial management” CECM: Moses Onderi “The department is managing County expenditures through the use of Integrated Financial Management System (IFMIS).” Chief Officers: - Wilfred Auma (Accounting and Finance) - Zablon Ongori (Planning) - Benard Omosa (Ag. OF FIN A NC Revenue Management) Moses Onderi Wilfred Auma Bernard Omosa Zablon Ongori

MANDATE Vision mission The department is charged with To be the most excellent County To formulate sound economic policies, the responsibility of resource Treasury in terms of resource maximise revenue mobilisation, ensure mobilisation, formulation of economic mobilization and allocation to foster efficient allocation and accountability for and fiscal policies and public finance economic and financial management County resources. management. In realising this, the sector has achieved the following: i. Developed a departmental Strategic Plan. ii. Successfully coordinated the Leveraging on prudent formulation and implementation of County budget estimates and mobilisation of resources for financial management funding budgetary requirements. iii. Offered advisory services on he Public Finance Management Act, Enabling legislations financial and policy matters to all 2012 bestows the Department of The department has developed the County government entities. Finance and Economic Planning the following policy documents and legislations iv. Coordinated appropriate County operational mandate as derived from to guide the implementation of its policies; enhancing policies and plans. T the Constitution of Kenya 2010.

D EPA RT ME NT The County Integrated Development v. Coordinated the development The department is responsible for Plan 2013-2017, 2018-2022, the County

ic pla nnin m ic A ND e cono of Strategic Plans for County monitoring, evaluation and overseeing the Emergency Fund Act 2016, the Revenue departments. management of public finances, planning Administration Act 2014, annual County vi. Monitored government procurement of economic affairs and policy formulation, Fiscal Strategy Papers, the Annual Budget, practices to ensure compliance with implementing financial and economic Finance Act (annually) and the Budget laid down regulations. policies, preparing and coordinating Management Strategy paper. vii. Facilitated accountability, the implementation of annual budget, governance and oversight by mobilising resources for funding county Procurement promoting efficient, transparent, governments public debt, providing technical In ensuring public resources are spent economic and effective resource and operational support for the ICT systems, properly, the Department of Procurement Kisii management. infrastructure and procurement of goods, has adhered to the directive from the works and services to the county. insight viii. Managed County expenditures National Treasury on Access to Government through the use of Integrated Procurement Opportunities (AGPOs) and Financial Management System (IFMIS). Name of projects Objects ix. Automated County operations and Installation of structured Local Area Network To improve connectivity, access to information and services offered services. (LAN) and WIFI infrastructure over computer network x. Instituted reforms aimed at Equipping county office with end-user ICT To capacitate staff with necessary equipment and materials The Official increasing local revenue and the equipment and devices required to perform their functions County government’s ability to Establishment of county data centre and Magazine of To provide infrastructure for hosting all county ICT systems provide public services. Some of the network operation centre (NOC) Kisii County reforms instituted include, improved Establishment of modern computer training Government procedures for assessment and To improve digital literacy among staff and county residents collection of revenue, mapping all information centre revenue streams, automating or Development of county active directory and To provide secure access and management of all ICT resources and 2020 Edition. application of electronic systems in unified threat management solution system services, and ensure security of data revenue collection and harmonising January 1 2020 Installation of IT based surveillance CCTV To provide real time security monitoring within and around county revenue rates and levies through - December 31, system government offices 2020 the Finance Bills. Development and implementation of xi. Established the County Budget and To manage online registration of youth, women and persons with county access to government procurement Economic Forum. disability in implementing the 30 percent procurement. opportunities (AGPO) system 88 c pla econo mi c A N D nn i n g F I N A NCE OF

The building that will house the CBK office

CBK opens door in Kisii to ease travel, costs T M ENT Kisii enters 2020 with a money clearing Mr Ongwae says it will significantly restock cash from Kisumu,” the Governor house in Kisii Town. cut costs incurred by the more than 25 said. The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) outlet commercial banks in Kisiii town who Regional head Ann Mufira confirmed

will be the fourth of its kind in the country. collect their cash stocks from CBK’s the money centre will be housed at the D E PAR Kisii joins Nyeri, Nakuru and Meru to Kisumu branch on a daily basis. ground and second floor of Barclays Kisii become the only towns in the country that “I had written to the government branch. play home to CBK money hubs. requesting the centre and its “Work at the site started in June, the The bank’s main branches are in establishment here this is a prayer flagging of operations is expected early Mombasa, Kisumu and Eldoret. answered. We hope it will go a long way 2020,” Mufira said. Governor James Ongwae expressed to help not just the banks but also boost Currently CBK Kisumu branch serves optimism that it will open its doors in the local economy,” said the Governor. the whole of Western Kenya region. January. “Kisii is a cash-rich area since it Once the Kisii branch is operational, “This is a breakthrough for banks in controls 60 per cent of the money market commercial banks in neighbouring Kisii and by extension the people of Kisii in Nyanza region. This centre will mean counties like Homa Bay and Nyamira will who they serve,” Mr Ongwae said. bringing services closer home. It is all equally benefit. The outlet will share a compound with about devolving services to reach the In 2017, Kisii was recognised for Kisii Barclays’ Bank of Kenya which has a targeted groups.” contributing 2.1 per cent of Kenya’s gross insight branch in the town. The Kisii Barclays Bank of Kenya domestic product. The place is strategic and is in close branch officials assured the governor that This is partly due to the huge inflow of proximity to government installations, they will accord CBK maximum support to money from the diaspora where a number including the County Government beat its deadlines. of people who trace their roots to Kisii live headquarters as well as National “It is a sigh of relief for our banks who and work. Government offices. have often been forced to use vans to The Official Magazine of disadvantaged groups are being awarded the use of integrated Financial Management Revenue automation Kisii County contracts in organised categories of general System (IFMIS) and e-procurement in our To bolster revenue mobilisation and Government supplies, provision of works and services, financial management operations. This has management, as well as widen the revenue health services and consultancy services. led to efficient financial decision making and base, the government has created a fully In Kisii County, all procurable contracts are effective delivery of financial services. fledged revenue department. The new 2020 Edition. awarded competitively in a transparent and department has identified more revenue January 1 2020 open manner. ICT services streams and has automated most aspects - December 31, The department has implemented various of revenue collection while in the process of 2020 e-Government projects to enhance communication and automating all revenue streams. We have complied with various advisories sharing of information among departments from the National Treasury in implementing and external publics. 89 Governor James Ongwae presents a soapstone curving to Raila Odinga during the 5th Devolution al s Pictori Conference in Kakamega. Looking on is governors Okoth Obado and Anne Waiguru.

Governor James Ongwae (R) is shown some of the traditional products by Nyamache Traditonal Artefacts group during a past Gusii Cultural Exbihition.

US ambassador to Kenya H.E Kyle McCarter with Governor James Ongwae when they toured the newly built Fire Station in Kisii town. It has been built through a partnership between the county Kisii government and the insight World Bank.

The Official Magazine of Kisii County Government

2020 Edition. January 1 2020 - December 31, 2020 Governor James Ongwae holding discussions with a delegation from the Lake Victoria Water Basin Authority to help actualise construction works for Mokubo water project in Bomachoge Borabu Constituency. The project funded by the Unicredit Bank of Austria is an initiative of the county government and is implemented by the Lake Victoria South Water Works Development Agency (LVSWWDA) 90 rial s P i cto

Governor James Ongwae admires a group of women grinding wheat during a Gusii Cultural Exbibition at Cultural Hall. Governor James Ongwae commissioning Omosobwa Borehole water project.

Governor James Ongwae joins a group of County executive member for Administration Corporate Services and Stakeholder youth in a dance during a youth function Management Dr Walter Okibo signing Performance Contract. Looking on is Governor at Kisii County Culture Hall. James Ongwae (centre) and Deputy Governor Joash Maangi (right).

Governor James Ongwae addresses Cabinet Secretaries Fred Matiangi, Joe Mucheru, Prof George Magoha and Kisii Senator Prof Sam Ongeri in his office.

Kisii insight

The Official Magazine of Kisii County Government

2020 Edition January 1 2020 - December 31, 2020 First Lady Elizabeth Ongwae presents a traditional woven basket to Victoria McCarter at KTRH. She accompanied her husband US ambassador to Kenya H.E Kyle McCarter when he visited the facility. 91 Lighting up candle for vulnerable groups

isii County First Lady Elizabeth Ongwae (pictured), an educationist by profession and the spouse of LA DY Kthe Governor James Ongwae, is a champion of social and development programmes, where she has been mobilising resources through well-wishers. Several times, she has rallied residents to support the cause of women, the girl child and other vulnerable members of society, including the orphans and persons living with disability. Mrs Elizabeth Ongwae donates an assortment of items to Kisii Special Milestones of the Office of the First Lady School. She supports children with special needs and orphans. Inadequate access to quality healthcare, gender-based violence, low financial literacy, contribution towards improving health services Free Kisii off Gender-Based Violence. high dropout rates especially among the girl by equipping all hospitals and purchasing According to Mrs Ongwae, it is time child, female genital mutilation (FGM) and ambulances which have helped women with to galvanize action to end Gender-Based a high HIV prevalence rate are some of the complications to access medical services in a Violence (GBV) in Kenya, calling for an challenges facing womenfolk in Kisii. With the timely manner. integrated approach to voice against gender- support of the County Government and other The Girl Child based violence. She says that it is high time collaborators, Mrs Ongwae has made strides In order to ensure retention in school that all joined hands to make the fight a in addressing the plight of the disadvantaged particularly for the girl child, Mrs Ongwae has success. in Kisii County. worked with well-wishers to distribute sanitary “Elimination of Gender-Based Violence Support to the vulnerable towels to under-privileged girls. is very close to my heart. I call upon Kisii Mrs Ongwae’s office supports children She says that she is touched by the plight residents to join hands as we eradicate it. I will with special needs, orphans, and street of young girls who miss school because they ensure mass mobilisation of all communities children. She donates foodstuffs, beddings cannot afford sanitary towels. to promote collective responsibility in the fight as well as teaching and learning materials to Mrs Ongwae, an educationist, who has to eradicate this scourge in our communities,” special schools and children homes. also donated education packs to needy she says. “Violence against women, men, Abandonment of FGM children in remote schools says that she youth and children is not a government Mrs Ongwae has stepped up efforts to started supporting education long before her responsibility but an issue that all of us have protect the girl child from harmful cultural spouse was elected and vows to continue to take into consideration. Let us be proactive practices like Female Genital Mutilation supporting the course. The first lady also runs as we seek to make Kisii County a gender free (FGM) that is still practiced among the a successful scholarship programme whose zone,” Mrs Ongwae adds. Gusii community. Statistics from the United beneficiaries are currently in both national and She says there is need to also address Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) indicate provincial schools. issues of violence between women and also that the FGM prevalence stands at 95 per cent Breast cancer screening urges residents of the county to address which is a high figure considering the spirited The First Lady’s office has intensified issues of child labour as a broader tack interventions by State and non-State actors. charitable activities across the county in a towards curbing gender-based violence. e FIRST O ffic e of th With partners, Mrs Ongwae organises anti- move aimed at ensuring the disadvantaged Kenyans urged to embrace children with FGM camps annually where girls drawn from persons in the society are granted access to special needs. each of the 45 wards undergo alternative rites services. Kisii County First Lady also wants Kenyans of passage. The training equips girls with life She urges women to go for breast cancer not to discriminate against children living with skills to avoid teenage pregnancy, reject FGM screening, saying routine cancer screening disabilities. and fight for their rights. saves lives and reduces costs of treatment, Mrs Ongwae says all children have equal Correcting obstetric fistula regretting that the disease is claiming rights, adding that they should be treated with Many women who give birth at home lose thousands of lives daily. Speaking in Kisii dignity and respect. She notes these children Kisii their children in the process or and develop recently, Mrs Ongwae said earlier detection have a right to access special education insight either Vesco Vaginal Fistula (FFV) or Obstetric has enabled doctors treat the disease before it and that they need special assistance while Fistula. “I am happy that my efforts are spreads to vital body organs. undertaking their daily chores. bearing fruits as records indicate that more “Earlier diagnosis helps treat cancer related The First Lady regrets that some parents women are giving birth in health facilities,” symptoms. I call upon women to embrace in Kisii County restrain autistic children she said. Mrs Ongwae has partnered with routine screening to avert the high numbers of from interacting with others because the Freedom From Fistula (F3) to support women mortality rates,” said Elizabeth. society believes that they are either cursed or who undergo fistula surgeries at the Kisii Noting that most women fear screening, bewitched. Teaching and Referral Hospital (KTRH). Mrs Ongwae said the procedure is fast and “It saddens me to learn that parents The Official Mrs Ongwae organises free medical relaxed with minimal discomfort. imagine that those children are cursed. Magazine of camps in collaboration with the KTRH and “Many lives will be saved if we all go for Regrettably, they are denied rights like access Kisii County Kenya Health, an Australian Charity that earlier cancer screening. Most women seek to education and proper diet. I want to remind Government provides medical care and education to medical advice when the disease has advanced all of us that we no longer have disabled mothers and children. to late stages which cannot be cured,” she children. Children with this condition are Using the Beyond Zero Mobile Clinic said. Mrs Ongwae wants women to observe actually able in a different way. Given a chance 2020 Edition. donated by First Lady Mrs Margaret Kenyatta, a health lifestyle saying it contributes to the and an enabling environment, they can thrive January 1 2020 she has facilitated residents in remote parts increase of cancer cases. “Studies show that and make a mark in the world,’ says Mrs - December 31, of the County to access healthcare. During being obese and over consumption of alcohol Ongwae. 2020 the medical camps, the County’s Beyond increases risks of breast cancer. I urge women Zero Mobile Clinic is availed for residents free to stay healthy because cancer kills and the Mrs Elizabeth Ongwae screening and treatment. cost of treatment is extremely high,” said First Lady, Kisii County She appreciates the County Government’s Elizabeth. 92 Trailbrazers from Gusii

Simeon Nyachae In 1979, Nyachae became the Chief Secretary in the Civil Service before he plunged into politics in 1992 Simeon Nyachae was born when he was elected the Member of Parliament for on February 6, 1932. His Nyaribari Chache. father, Musa Nyandusi, was Nyachae served as Cabinet Minister for Agriculture a colonial chief. and Finance before he resigned in 1999 on claims that He is among the first he was moved to the Ministry of Industry. people from Kisii to get He formed his party, Ford people and used it to formal education. run for the Presidency in 2002. The party won all He studied in London parliamentary seats in Kisii and Nyamira counties. The and when he returned to presidential election was won by MwA.I kibaki. Kenya, he joined the civil Nyachae supported Kibaki and was in turn appointed service at the rank of a District the Minister for Energy and later Roads. Officer in Division. He He lost his parliamentary seat in 2007 and has since

then rose through the ranks and became e rs of Gusii retired from politics. He is a business magnet with the Provincial Commissioner in charge of Central interests in real estate, transport, agriculture and Province. industry.

The late Dr Zachary scholarships’ to study in Puerto Rico in San Juan where he graduated in 1965. Onyonka He joined Syracuse University in 1966 for a Master in Born in 1939, Dr Zachary Economics course and undertook his doctoral studies Onyonka attended St Mary’s there. G alla nt sons a nd Nyabururu in 1949 before He returned to Kenya and became a lecturer at the he moved to St Mary’s Yala . In 1969, he ran for the Kitutu West where he studied up to parliamentary seat and won. d a u g ht 1958. Between then and 1996, he served in the Trade, He was employed by the Foreign Affairs, Education, Planning and Development Gusii County Council and ministerial dockets. worked until 1960 when he He is one of the few leaders who held their elective benefited from the famous ‘airlift positions for many years without defeat until his death.

The late Lawrence School which he had joined in 1934. In 1937, he joined Kisii Government African School (now Kisii School) and Sagini later Kabaa Mangu Holy Ghost College. Lawrence Sagini was After Mangu, he went to Kagumo Teachers’ College born in Gesonso on the in Nyeri where he graduated in 1950. He became a Kisii outskirts of Kisii Town in teacher and rose to be headmaster, then education insight 1926. officer in Central and South Nyanza. He was the first-born He quit teaching in 1957 to study Sociology son of Ndemo Kibagendi and Political Science in the Allegheny College in and Esther Nyanganyi. His Pennsylvania, United States where he graduated in father worked as the president 1959. of the African Tribunal Court in He returned to Kenya and taught briefly at Asumbi Kisii. Teachers’ College and was appointed Assistant The Official He studied at Mangu School and helped Education Officer, a position he served until 1961. Magazine of construct Ria’Sagini Catholic chapel, among other Sagini also served as a member of the Provincial Kisii County church and self-help projects. Council of the University of . Government He was selected by the Catholic Church to visit the He was the first person form Gusii to be elected to Pope and was honoured with a knighthood. the Legislative Council (LEGCO) in 1961 and became Interestingly, most of his family members including MP for Kitutu West in 1963. 2020 Edition. the mother were SDAs. His mother was reluctant Sagini was awarded the post-humous doctorate for January 1 2020 when the son joined Mangu, which is a national school, his role in the development of education in Kenya in - December 31, but she later lived with the reality. 1995. 2020 Sagini got his formal education at Isecha Sector He died in 1996 in a car crash aged 69. 93

The late Zephaniah the first MP for Majoge-Bassi constituency in 1963. Mogunde He was a resolute politician and stunned Zephaniah Mogunde was born many when he resigned from KANU and joined in 1935 to Heradion Mogunde the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga’s opposition and Peninah Nyamanyi. party KPU. This cost him his seat in 1966. Mogunde studied at Isebania His star shone once again when he reclaimed High School and Bugema the seat in 1974 and served up to 1979 when he Missionary College in Uganda. lost to Christopher Obure. He made an attempt for the Mogunde spent much of his time in an out Legislative Council seat in 1958. of the legislative house championing for soil Mogunde joined Parliament as conservation and afforestation. He died in 2014. s of G u s ii of hte r s daug Elkana Ong’esa,HSC is an abstract representation of a bird that symbolises peace. Elkana Ong’esa is an internationally His other carving, ‘Dancing Birds,’ is in renowned stone sculptor who hails permanent display at the US Embassy in Nairobi. from Tabaka in South Mogirango. It symbolises peace, happiness and international He was born in 1944, to a family cooperation. of craftsmen, a heritage he Ong’esa studied fine art at universities in developed to become Kenya’s Kenya and Uganda and his postgraduate thesis most recognized artist. at McGill University in was on “East Ong’esa is well known for his Africans Stone Carving in Kenya.” He has taught sculptures and has exhibited his creative arts in various institutions, both locally works around the world. He is and inter-nationally. perhaps best known for his seven- Working with visual artists from his Tabaka tonne ‘Bird of Peace’ (Enyamuchera) home, Ong’esa has successfully organised three sculpture that adorns the entrance of alla a n d sons nt editions of the African Stones Talk International UNESCO headquarters in Paris, where it

G Sculpture Symposium in Kisii, where local and has remained since 1980. international stone sculptors interact and ex- The sculpture, which took him two years between 1976 and 1978 to build from soapstone, change cultural experiences.

Henry Motego was a student at Cardinal Otunga High School, Mosocho and Itierio High School between 1983 Henry Motego was born in 1964. and 1987. He is a well-known striker, now He played for Harambee Stars and this retired from active football. endeared himself to Kenyans. He was also In 1992, he shone during an signed by Kenya Breweries Ltd as their striker international encounter between but was retrenched in 2005. national team Harambee Stars Motego signed for Omani league side Al-Oriba and Tunisia. Kenya beat Tunisia for two seasons between 1991 and 1992 before and qualified to the finals for the he returned home to play for Kenya Breweries African Cup of Nations until 2000 when he retired. He started his footballing career He played for the national team in 1988, 1990 in 1983 at Boitangare Primary and 1992 and now works at the Kisii County School. Shabana FC identified him Government’s department of sports. Kisii and enlisted him in the team while he insight

Claire Kwamboka in Kisii, she was instrumental in fighting for the Omanga girl-child to remain in school. The Official She has also contributed her resources to Claire Kwamboka’s public life improving the education standards in Gusii. Her Magazine of was not a walk in the park. She love for education is seen through a children’s Kisii County attended Nyabururu Primary storybook she wrote, The Girl Who Couldn’t Keep Government School before proceeding to a Secret. Loreto Girls, where she attained She defied odds to be elected Councillor for Division II in her form four Bobaracho Ward in the early 1990s, eventually 2020 Edition. examinations. She married the becoming Kisii Mayor, a first in the region. January 1 2020 late Andrew Omanga in 1961. She took a stab at a parliamentary seat - December 31, She has fought many battles in a but was not successful. She also served as 2020 male-dominated political world. Nyansiongo Tea Factory Company Board Her ambition is to ensure that the girl-child chairperson, in yet another first for a woman in gets better education. As the first female Mayor Kisii. 94

The late James Nyamweya as the Permanent Secretary (PS) in the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional James Nyamweya was born in 1927. He studied law Affairs, Assistant Minister in the in the in the 1950s. He is an old boy Office of the President, Minister in of Nyanchwa SDA Primary School and Kamagambo charge of External Affairs, Minister Mission School. He got his earlier secondary education of Provincial Administration, in Kamagambo Secondary School but was discontinued Minister of Works, Minister after the secondary school section was stopped by the of Labor, Minister of Power management. He joined the teacher training section for and Communication and chair a course and later taught at Nyanchwa, Sengera, Isecha of the Electoral Boundaries and Sironga primary schools. He got his undergraduate Commission. from the Kings College, University of London where he He died on September 25, 1995 graduated with a Law Degree in 1958. after a robust career. At the time of his He served as MP for Nyaribari between 1963 and 1979. death, he was National Vice chairman He also served in ministerial portfolios and parastatals of the Democratic Party. Nyamweya left an during the Kenyatta and Moi regimes. Nyamweya served G u s ii of hte r s daug indelible mark in the country’s labor laws.

Hellen Onsando Obiri at 8:37.16 in full speed. The corporal at the Kenya Air Force could not believe Born in December 1989 at Nyacheki in Bobasi, Hellen she had beaten Defar, a world Obiri is among the greatest middle and long-distance champion, who settled for silver. In runners. She holds the world and African record in 2019, Hellen Obiri, won the 5,000 1,500m. Obiri attended Ekeonga Primary School before metres in the IAAF in Doha. joining Riruta Central Secondary School in Nairobi after Career highlights: being sponsored by a well-wisher who had spotted her Finished in 11th position in talent. In 2008, she was recruited to join the armed 1500m at the 13th IAAF World forces, thanks to her athletic prowess, and was posted Championships in athletics in to Air Base where she works. It is while at the Daegu, South Korea; finished military that she became established, taking part in the in first position (8:37.16) to win world military games in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil where gold at the IAAF World Indoor she finished in third position. alla a n d sons nt Championships in Istanbul, Turkey;

In 2012, four-time 3,000m defending champion G ranked 14th in women’s 1,500m and Meseret Defar was on her way to a fifth straight world 101 women’s overall ranking in the world. Her title at the World Indoor Track and Field championships personal best in 3000m is 8:35.35 a fete recorded in in Istanbul, Turkey. In the final lap, little known Hellen Birmingham, Great Britain on February 18, Onsando Obiri suddenly pulled level with Defar before 2012. zooming away from the Ethiopian great to cut the tape

The late Prof. Joseph Nyasani and legal philosophy. Despite scoring many firsts The late Prof. Joseph Nyasani was a renowned and rising to the highest scholar who made a mark both in academia and media. pinnacle of academia, his Born in Kisii in 1936, Prof Nyasani wanted to become humble mien shocked many. a Catholic priest but when he grew up, his destiny He had a brief stint at the UN took a different direction and he ended up becoming secretariat in New York as a a philosophy professor and a TV personality fluent in political affairs officer in 1971. numerous languages including English, French, Italian While working at the University Spanish, Latin, Kiswahili and Ekegusii. He actually of Nairobi as a lecturer, he worked trained as a priest but quit on the eve of his ordination. part time as a news anchor at the Kenya He is remembered for breaking a 300-year record Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) TV, the only television by writing his dissertation in Latin while doing his station at the time. Kisii doctorate in Germany in 1963. At the time of his death, In 1994, he survived a bullet fired above his eye, insight he had published 41 titles and authored several books which went through his skull. He died in February 2016. in philosophy especially metaphysics, logic, cosmology

Yobes Ondieki first athlete to break the 27-minute barrier over 10,000 metres, when Yobes Ondieki was a man of many firsts. The 5,000m he clocked 26:58.38 at the Bislett runner won the World Championships’ gold medal in Games in Oslo on July 10. His The Official Tokyo in 1991. In the same year, he set a temporary time broke the mark set by Magazine of Kenyan 5,000m record of 13:01.82 in Zurich. Richard Chelimo only five days Kisii County He participated in the Olympic finals of 1988 and earlier in Stockholm by over Government 1992, but did not win a medal. He is the first ever athlete nine seconds. From 1989 to to break the 27:00 mark in the 10,000m race in 1993. 1993, Ondieki was ranked top five Ondieki attended Iowa State University, where in the world in the 5,000m race 2020 Edition. he captured four ‘Big Eight’ conference titles, three by Track and Field News, with his January 1 2020 of them in cross-country. He received All-America number one ranking coming in 1991. - December 31, accolades six times in Iowa State. Ondieki was known In 1993, Track and Field News ranked him 2020 for his demanding training sessions and his ability to number one in the world in the 10,000m race. run constantly at a high pace. In 1993, he became the 95

Remembering World athletic superman, s of G u s ii of hte r s daug Mayioro

orld legendary and the Country’s He had first been noticed in 1952 Athletics pioneer, the late when he won the Empire Games Nyandika Mayioro, helped to 5K in Madagascar, despite starting highlight to the World that it is the race late because he did not W not the skin color or the race of an individual understand the instructions. that matters but determination always leads 1952 to success. Mayioro, belongs to the class of the self-starters of this world. He died last year

alla a n d sons nt He finished fourth in aged 89 and his remains were interred at his Nyaribari Chache home having achieved his G the three-miles at the 1954 British Empire and lifelong dream of representing his country in Commonwealth Games an international event. and at that competition Running barefoot in marathon races, he 1954 stunned the world when he went ahead to win Gold for Kenya. He showed persistence and determination overrides all others factors in achieving a At the 1956 Olympics, set goal. Maiyoro captained the Maiyoro was the first top Kenyan long Kenyan athletics team. distance runner. He finished fourth in the three-miles at the 1954 British Empire and 1956 Commonwealth Games and in the same competition in 1958, he was placed 12th in He was placed 12th in the three-miles and was eliminated in the the three-miles and was heats of the mile. eliminated in the heats of At the 1956 Olympics, Maiyoro captained the mile. the Kenyan athletics team. He had first been noticed in 1952 when he won the Empire 1958 Games 5K in Madagascar, despite starting Kisii He was made a the race late because he did not understand insight Member of British the instructions. Empire (MBE), by the At the 1954 AAA Championships in Queen of England in London, Maiyoro was placed fourth in the 1961, was awarded the three-miles, stunning the British crowd, who Silver Star Medal by had never seen African distance runners at retired President Moi in the top level. 1961 1987 and was given the Maiyoro was initially employed as a Distinguished Service veterinary scout by the colonial officers. He The Official Award by Kenyatta would later become the caretaker of Kisii Magazine of University in 1995. Municipal Stadium, retiring in 2002. Kisii County He was made a Member of British Empire Government (MBE), by the Queen of England in 1961, was Maiyoro was initially awarded the Silver Star Medal by retired employed as a veterinary President Moi in 1987, and was given the scout by colonial officers. 2020 Edition. 2002 Distinguished Service Award by Kenyatta He would later become University in 1995. January 1 2020 the caretaker of Kisii - December 31, Maiyioro religiously attended national Municipal Stadium, 2020 public functions at Gusii Stadium retiring in 2002. distinguishing him as a patriot at heart. 96

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