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Tears as the Late Ojwang is laid to Rest; Leaders Call for Justice

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By Habil Onyango
A somber mood enveloped Kakoth village in Kabondo Kasipul Constituency as the late Albert Ojwang was laid to rest on Friday.

Leaders who attended the burial ceremony committed to ensuring that those involved in this heinous act are brought to justice.

Among the attendees were Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, Minority Whip and Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo, Embakasi MP Babu Owino, area MP Eve Obara, and Homa Bay Woman Representative Bensuda Osogo.

“With heavy hearts, we laid to rest Albert who was a young and industrious gentleman whose life was characterized by unwavering dedication to community service,” she said.

Governor Wanga reiterated her commitment to supporting the family in their pursuit of justice, stating that Albert’s legacy of service and kindness will not be forgotten.

She emphasized that the leaders stand united in demanding accountability and closure for this tragic loss.

“His untimely passing has left us with profound sorrow, unanswered questions, and a deep void in the hearts of all who knew him,” noted the Governor.

Wanga urged the police to operate within the law and the Constitution of Kenya.

She indicated that police officers arrested in connection with Albert’s death should face murder charges in court.

“As a leader from this region, I will personally follow up to ensure that justice is served regarding Albert’s death,” she said.

“We want to make it clear that anyone found culpable in his murder should face a punishment commensurate with the crime.” She added.

Millie Odhiambo shared the deep pain of losing a child in such tragic circumstances, expressing her sympathy for Ojwang’s mother, who had only one child.

“I know the pain a mother endures after losing her only child,” she said.

“It is heartbreaking that after God blesses you with a child, someone so lost and confused can end that life so violently.”

She asserted that despite the ODM party being part of the Broad-Based Government, they will continue to fight for justice from within.

Babu Owino expressed his sorrow over the loss, highlighting that after the parents’ long struggle to educate their only child, he was now being brought home in a coffin.

He urged the police to fulfill their duty of protecting lives and property, rather than taking them.

“We condemn this act and demand that any police officer involved in Albert’s murder be arrested, taken to court, and given life imprisonment,” he said.

Albert, 31, died in police custody a month ago after being arrested over a post on X that was allegedly critical of Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat.

His death sparked nationwide protests, with many youths tragically losing their lives as a result.

Police had claimed that he died due to self-inflicted injuries after hitting his head in police cells.

However, an autopsy and an investigation by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) ruled out any possibility of suicide.

On Thursday, when the body was brought home for burial, chaos erupted, leading to the torching of a Mawego police post by unknown individuals.

In response, Owino remarked, “Since the police alleged that Albert hit his head in the cells, it seems their police post burned itself down.”

Albert’s coffin was draped in a Kenyan flag and adorned with the colors of Manchester United, the football club he passionately supported.

Is the past back to haunt Gachagua or is he a master of double speak and political rhetorics?

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By Anderson Ojwang

Nigerian Novelist and Poet, Chinua Achebe wrote in his book, Things Fall Apart “When the dry bones are mentioned the old feel uneasy.”

The Proverb aptly captures the situation the impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua currently finds himself in.

Kisii Governor Simba Arati could have opened the pandora box over the Gachagua’s two years in the government where he overbore on the opposition leaders and regions that did not vote for President William Ruto.

Gachagua once an ardent supporter of Kenya Kwanza administration and the second most powerful person in the country, took least minute to humiliate, castigate and deride opposition leaders and regions that never supported them.

For the two years in the office, Gachagua tormented and humiliated those who criticized the Kenya Kwanza administration and was opposed to any form of demonstration in the country.

But after his impeachment, Gachagua has turned the ‘‘liberator” of Kenya from things and actions that he previously glorified and celebrated over.

Arati reminded Gachagua of his past as he plans to tour Kisii when he was the deputy President and how he undermined them.

“Gachagua is welcomed to Kisii, he is a leader just any other leader, yes, we know how he has caused some discord in this country which all of us have to look into.

But for today, I want to point that while he is coming to Kisii, he knows what he took us through in his two years in office.

We know the frustrations we got from Gachagua when he was the deputy to president Ruto.

Until his departure from office, he is one of the people who perpetrated especially in Kisii where himself, he pointed out in the functions we had at Mosocho, that until we had to behave, myself, he told me that until we behaved that was the only time we could get our security back, that was unbecoming.

But again, we say let security be provided to Gachagua given he was the former deputy president.

I do not want to antagonize other leaders from other part of the country, but we cannot bury our head in the sand because we know what we have gone through.

Even if one has turned to be an angel today, there is more, and we are going to shape the Kenya’s politics going forward.

As Kisii we are welcoming everyone to request for votes.  Gachagua is welcomed to sell his agenda of one term because that is it.

If he sells for Ruto one term, he can as well sell for Simba one term and we see how it goes with the people,” he said.

Gachagua in his past speeches on demonstrations said Mt Kenya people were known as wealth creators and not destructive.

“This region nobody will be allowed to come to destroy property.

We, from Mt Kenya, we have never known the stupidity of killing people and destroying properties.

It has never happened in this region.

The people of Mt Kenya are progressive, businesspersons and farmers, they do not know about wealth destruction but wealth creation and protection.

Let me say now, let see how it will unfold.

No responsible government will allow such hooliganism witnessed in Nairobi.

You said, demonstrations is your right.

Is destruction of properties a right, what right are you fighting for?

That is why we told uhuru Kenyatta in his face.

We cannot elect that person.

We know him that he is the lord of violence and impunity in the republic of Kenya.

I told Uhuru Kenyatta this man is the problem of this country.

I am going to call a meeting for the leaders of mt Kenya region on how to deal with these characters now,” he said then.

After his impeachment, Gachagua said that he had been mandated by Mt Kenya people to look for a political formation that will bring power to the people.

“I was looking at it with few strategists from the region, Raila numbers is more exciting.

Because Raila already has 6.8 million votes.

We only beat him with only 200,000 votes.

If we agree to support him, we could, I told you with his 6.8 and our 6 million votes, if you look at his voting pattern, he normally votes between 10.00 am-11.00 am.

If we agree to support him.

Before he votes, he will be the president.

That you can take to the bank,” he said in a recent interview.

Raila in his response dismissed Gachagua overtures and instead asked his supporters to  stop political activism and focus on the future to benefit from the unfolding political scenario.

“I want our people to remain quite so that we can get what we want going forward.

Those who are making noise in the opposition told us that they were in the government of shareholders.

They said they have shares; they told us that they have shareholding in the government.

Some have more shares while others have least.

Now that they have left the government after their fights.

They have come to us so for us to join them in order to make us president.

But they are forgetting that when they were in the government, they used to abuse us.

They did not know that we are a people who matter.

Now at this time, they are in a fix, they want us to join them. 

They now say that they we want to give you presidency,” he said.

Two years ago, Gachagua hailed President Ruto for keeping side of his bargain after the election and appointing Mt Kenya to various positions.

“I want to thank President William Ruto because he is a gentleman. 

Ruto and I did not sign any memorandum of understanding, I trusted him, and he trusted us. 

I told him we will not have any MOU with you, you are a good person and a Christian, we will give you all the votes from Mt Kenya,” he said. 

During the burial of his elder brother two years ago Gachagua said “On behalf of my family let me thank you with Mama Rachel, I really want to thank you.

You have been there for us. Anytime, we have been in tears in this family.

You always turn up with a handkerchief to wipe our tears.

We have no words to say thank you and the truth be said from our relationship, you have become one of our family. 

We celebrate and cherish you. We don’t take that relationship for granted.

Last time you came for my mother’s burial I told you, this family of Gachagua we are honest, and people of integrity and we value friendship.

I told you if other Kenyans will betray you, that betrayal will not come from this family.

We don’t know betrayal.

We are people who are true to friends and that is why with my family made a conscious decision to stand with you in very difficult circumstances.

I gave very clear instructions to family that I must serve you with loyalty and dedication.

I was told by my family to give back to your support for this family and for your friendship. 

I will do whatever you tell me to do.

The people of the country have high hope in your leadership.

I want to confirm before my family that I will not let you down and I will do whatever it takes, and I will be there for you to give you the necessary support.

The people of Mt Kenya, let me thank you, you have given our community respect in Kenya’s political landscape.

The people of the mountain are honest people and have integrity and appreciate good deed,” he said.

But after his impeachment, Gachagua has changed the tune and now claims Ruto has betrayed the mountain and has failed to deliver in his pledge to Kenyans.

“If you see MPs speak, just know Ruto has sent them.

I was with him.

He could write for me what to say.

He wrote for me what to say in various occasions and on the third occasion, I realized  this man it was not right.

You remember how I used to speak and talk and then suddenly I changed.

You know he sits there, he has a pen and a paper, writes to you what to say.

I realized that the president was setting me up with Kenyans.

I want to promise you William Ruto you will not kick the people of Mt Kenya out of the government,” he said.

“We are planning, within a short time, we will reclaim back our pride and dignity as a people.

It is true what you are saying the mountain is angry.

It is not just angry it is very angry.

Why the mountain is very angry, because of betrayal.

Nobody can fool the people of the mountain twice, you fooled them once, they feel very sorry about it.

They actually feel very low and down. 

I want to tell you, I heard some people complaining that I am forming a political alliance with Kalonzo Musyoka, why do you want to get involved in family affairs?

If someone has spoken to his cousin, is there any problem? You can also speak to your cousin.

You, Willam Ruto keep of family matters. Don’t get into our family affairs.

Let me ask, should cousins stay together or not?

Should the cousins walk together or not?”He asked.

A strategic proposal to Upgrade Ramogi Institute of Advanced Technology into a full-fledged University

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By Alfred Gogi
The Ramogi Institute of Advanced Technology (RIAT) has long served as a premier technical training institution in Western Kenya, producing graduates in engineering, ICT, business, and other technical fields.

However, the evolving demands of Kenya’s economy, coupled with national policy goals to expand access to higher education and promote regional development, justify its transformation into a fully-fledged university and that is why the president while addressing the Kisumu County leadership that recently visited state house in Nairobi, agreed to upgrade this premier institution into a full university.

Rationale for Upgrading RIAT into fully fledged university follows the following ideals
National and Regional Development Goals
 Vision 2030 calls for an innovative, knowledge-based economy.

Western Kenya has strong potential in agriculture, the blue economy (Lake Victoria), and innovation, but lacks sufficient university capacity in these areas.

Expanding Access to Higher Education
 Kenya’s higher education enrollment rates remain lower than global averages.  RIAT can help close the gap for the Nyanza region.

Building Local Capacity
 A university can generate research, innovation, and skilled graduates tailored to local needs.

 Avoids brain drain by offering programs close to home.

Strategic Vision
Proposed Name: Ramogi University of Science and Technology (RUST)

Mission: To provide high-quality, innovative, and practical education, research, and community service that drives socioeconomic transformation.

Vision: To be a leading university in science, technology, innovation, and sustainable development in Africa.

Proposed Schools
Below are the eight schools proposed for the new university, their mandates, and flagship programs:

School of Engineering and Innovation
Mandate: Produce engineers and innovators to support industrialization.

 Programs: Civil Engineering, Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, and Renewable Energy Engineering.

 Innovation Hub: To incubate student and faculty start-ups.

 Note: Civil Engineering is included here but also features in the School of Architecture and Built Environment for interdisciplinary training.

School of Architecture, Urban Planning and Built Environment
Mandate: Train professionals for sustainable built environments.

Programs: Architecture, Urban Planning, Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Civil Engineering.

Focus: Emphasizes resilient infrastructure design to address local development challenges.

School of Agriculture, agriculture engineering and Food Security
Mandate: Advance sustainable agriculture and food systems.

Programs: Agronomy, Horticulture, Animal Science, Agribusiness, Food Science.

Special Focus: Climate Change and Resilient Agriculture to train experts who can help communities adapt farming systems to climate variability.

Extension Services: Partner with farmers for technology transfer.

School of Marine Aquaculture and Blue Economy

Mandate: Leverage Lake Victoria for sustainable development.

Programs: Aquaculture, Fisheries Management, Marine Ecology, Blue Economy Policy.

Research Center: Sustainable fishing, water quality monitoring, and lake conservation.
School of Business, Economics and Statistics

Mandate: Equip graduates with entrepreneurial and analytical skills.

Programs: Business Administration, Economics, statistics, Finance, Marketing, Entrepreneurship.

 Business Incubator: Support local SMEs and entrepreneurship training.
School of Leadership, Human Resource and Management

Mandate: Build capacity for effective governance and leadership.

Programs: Public Administration, Policy Studies, Strategic Management, Human Resources.

Focus: Develop leaders for public service, NGOs, and private sector organizations.

School of Health and Biological Sciences
Mandate: Train professionals for health services and biosciences research.

Programs: Public Health, Medical Laboratory Science, Nursing, Biotechnology, Environmental Health, Medicine, Herbal Medicine.

Research Focus: Combine modern medical training with the study of traditional herbal medicine to harness local knowledge and biodiversity.

School of ICT, Robotics and Computer Science
Mandate: Drive digital transformation and Artificial Intelligence

Programs: Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science, Cybersecurity and Industrial Robotics.

Tech Lab: Encourage innovation in ICT solutions, robotics, and AI applications for manufacturing and services.
Phased Implementation Plan to run concurrently Phase 1: Institutional Transition (2 years)
 Secure government approval and accreditation.

 Develop university charter and statutes.

 Establish university governance structures (Council, Senate, Management).

Phase 2: Curriculum Development and Staffing (2 years)
 Develop curricula for all schools in line with Commission for University Education (CUE) guidelines.

 Recruit qualified faculty and administrative staff.

Phase 3: Infrastructure Upgrade (5 years)
 Expand classrooms, laboratories, libraries, student hostels.

 Build specialized facilities (innovation hubs, aquaculture research centers, robotics labs, herbal medicine gardens).
Phase 4: Enrollment and Launch (2 years)
 Roll out initial degree programs.

 Enroll first cohorts in selected schools.

 Market the university regionally and nationally.

Governance and Administration
University Council

 Highest policy-making body.

 Includes government, industry, and community representatives.
University Senate
 Academic governance.

 Oversees quality, curriculum, academic policies.
Management Team
 Vice Chancellor (VC), Deputy VCs for Academic Affairs, Finance & Planning, Research & Innovation.

 Registrars, Deans, Directors of Institutes/Centers.
Infrastructure Requirements
To support the eight schools:

 Modern classrooms with ICT integration.

 Laboratories for engineering, health, agriculture.

 Specialized robotics labs in the ICT school.

 Herbal medicine research gardens in Health Sciences.

 Libraries with print and digital resources.

 Student accommodation and cafeterias.

 Sports and recreation facilities.

 Faculty offices and administrative blocks.

 Innovation and business incubation hubs.

 Aquaculture research stations.

 Health sciences simulation labs.

Curriculum Development and Accreditation
 Align programs with CUE standards and global best practices.

 Include hands-on training, industrial attachments, research projects.

 Embed entrepreneurial and innovation modules in all programs.

 Seek professional body accreditations (EBK, Nursing Council, Medical Board).

Human Resource Strategy
Academic Staffing
 Recruit PhD-qualified lecturers.

 Attract industry practitioners as adjunct faculty.

 Offer staff development scholarships.
Administrative Staffing
 Professional registrars, finance officers, ICT support.

 Student support services (counseling, career services).
Partnerships and Linkages
 Collaborate with local industries for internships, research.

 Partner with international universities for staff exchange and joint research.

 Engage county governments for development planning.

 Build ties with NGOs and development partners to fund infrastructure and research.
Research and Innovation Agenda
 Establish thematic research centers:
o Climate-Smart Agriculture and Climate Change Adaptation.
o Lake Victoria Blue Economy Research.
o Renewable Energy and Green Technologies.
o Health, Medicine, and Herbal Medicine Research.
o ICT Innovation, Data Analytics, and Industrial Robotics.

 Promote commercialization of research outputs.

 Encourage student start-ups through incubation centers.
Funding Strategies
 Government capitation and HELB support.

 Tuition fees (differentiated rates for self-sponsored students).

 County government contributions.

 Donor and development partner grants.

 Research grants and consultancy services.

 Income-generating units (short courses, commercial farms, hospitality services).

Stakeholder Engagement
 Host community consultations to ensure local buy-in.

 Engage students and staff in planning processes.

 Work with professional bodies to align programs with industry needs.

 Regularly communicate progress through public reports.

Risk Management
 Mitigate quality risks through accreditation processes.

 Address financial sustainability with clear cost-recovery plans.

 Build security plans to ensure student and staff safety.

 Develop robust ICT systems to support e-learning and administration.
Expected Outcomes and Impact

 Increased university enrollment in Western Kenya.

 Highly skilled graduates aligned with Kenya’s economic needs.

 Enhanced research outputs addressing local challenges.

 New jobs created through university operations and spin-off businesses.

 Strengthened regional competitiveness in agriculture, blue economy, health, and ICT.

Conclusion
Upgrading the Ramogi Institute of Advanced Technology into a full university with eight strategically selected schools is both feasible and transformative.

With special focus areas such as industrial robotics, climate change adaptation, civil engineering, and herbal medicine, the university will address pressing national and regional challenges.

The writer is a Part Time Lecturer (Project Planning and Management)- University of Eldoret
PhD student (Project Planning and Management) – University of Nairobi

Sh60 million Human–Wildlife Conflict Compensation Payment Renews Hope in Kilifi‎

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By Team
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‎Communities in Kilifi County today received over KSh 60 million in compensation for losses linked to human–wildlife conflict, marking a significant step in restoring trust and dignity among the affected families.
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‎This was payment from 2014 to October 2020, clearing part payments for human deaths.

In the meantime, the government is committed to clearing all pending compensation claims.
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‎Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife Hon. Rebecca Miano, accompanied by KWS Board of Trustees Chairman Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Walter Raria Koipaton and KWS Director General Prof. Erustus Kanga, led the cheque issuance ceremony in Marafa. Also present were Kilifi Deputy Governor Hon. Florah Mbetsa, Woman Representative Hon. Gertrude Mbeyu, National Assembly Deputy Leader of Majority and Kilifi North MP Hon Owen Baya, other Kilifi County Members of Parliament, MCAs, and national government officers led by the Kilifi County Commissioner Josephat Biwott.
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‎Hon. Miano stressed that compensation is a constitutional right under the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act, not a favour.

She stressed the government’s resolve to translate policy into tangible benefits for citizens, highlighting more than 1,300 human–wildlife conflict cases reported in Kilifi since 2021.

Nationwide, the current administration has already disbursed KSh 2.8 billion in compensation, with an additional KSh 1.36 billion under processing — a demonstration of sustained government goodwill to ease the burden on affected communities.

Beyond compensation, she outlined a six-pillar prevention strategy, including corridor fencing, modern early warning systems, and enhanced ranger presence, while reaffirming the government’s commitment to community upliftment through Corporate Social Investment projects such as building classrooms, distributing water tanks, and supporting local development.
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‎Board Chairman Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Koipaton reinforced the Board’s pledge to guide KWS towards becoming a more community-oriented, solution-driven institution anchored in transparency, partnership, and innovation.

He assured the community that the Board is actively engaged in reviewing and supporting stronger measures to protect both people and wildlife, adding that inclusive, people-led conservation remains central to KWS’s mission.
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‎Prof. Kanga acknowledged the hardship caused by recurring wildlife incursions in Ganze, Magarini, and Vitengeni, pledging KWS’s unwavering commitment to protect communities while conserving Kenya’s natural heritage.
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‎He confirmed the deployment of a fully equipped Problem Animal Management Unit (PAMU) in Kilifi to improve rapid response and reduce fear among residents.

These interventions, anchored in the KWS Strategic Plan 2024–2028 and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, reflect a shared vision: a future where communities and wildlife not only coexist, but flourish together in safety, harmony, and mutual benefit.

Africa Takes Major Step Toward Financial Sovereignty with Launch of PAPSSCARD

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By Kepher Otieno

Africa has taken a significant leap toward financial independence with the launch of PAPSSCARD, the continent’s first Pan-African card scheme.

Officially unveiled on June 27 during the 32nd Afreximbank Annual Meetings in Abuja, Nigeria, the PAPSSCARD initiative marks a crucial milestone in Africa’s pursuit of financial autonomy.

It aims to build resilient, homegrown payment infrastructure, ease cross-border travel, and enhance trade integration.

President William Ruto was represented at the event by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi.

He lauded the PAPSSCARD as a major milestone.

”Kenya is happy to be part of this new journey with PAPSSCARD,” said Mudavadi of the new systems developed through a joint venture between the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), and Mercury Payment Services (MPS), PAPSSCARD facilitates fast, secure, and affordable retail payments across African borders.

Currently, most African card transactions are routed through international systems leading to higher fees and loss of control over sensitive financial data.

PAPSSCARD addresses this by ensuring that transactions are processed entirely within the continent, retaining value, data, and economic benefits in Africa.

Speaking at the launch, Professor Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of Afreximbank, emphasized the card’s transformative potential:

“For too long, Africa’s reliance on external payment systems has impeded trade, increased costs, and compromised control over our financial data.

PAPSSCARD changes that.

It empowers us to move money swiftly, securely, and affordably across our borders.

It is a transformative step toward strengthening intra-African trade and preserving value within the continent.”

Mike Ogbalu III, CEO of PAPSS, described PAPSSCARD as more than just a payment solution.

“It’s a powerful symbol of progress and a bold step towards financial independence,” he said.

“The card showcases Africa’s capacity to develop practical, homegrown solutions aligned with the way the continent trades, lives, and grows.”

Muzaffer Khokhar, Executive Chairman of Mercury, highlighted the card’s broader implications for Africa’s financial ecosystem.

“This is a milestone for financial sovereignty.

We are proud to support a system built by Africa, for Africa.

It represents innovation, trust, and a major stride in shaping the continent’s financial future.

We believe PAPSSCARD will become Africa’s most trusted payments brand.”

John Bosco Sebabi, Acting CEO of PAPSSCARD, added that the new platform would deliver widespread benefits across the financial landscape—from corporations and banks to merchants and individuals.

“The PAPSSCARD will help reduce costs for public institutions, fuel innovation in the financial sector, and expand access to secure, modern payment tools across Africa,” he said.

To mark the launch, commemorative cards were unveiled at the event, developed in partnership with issuing banks including Bank of Kigali and I&M Bank Rwanda.

Technical partners such as Rswitch (Rwanda’s national switch), Smart Cash, and Unified Payments are supporting seamless rollout and usage, especially in markets like Nigeria.

African central banks and payment institutions are set to drive the card’s adoption across the continent.

The initiative aligns closely with Afreximbank’s broader strategy to deepen financial inclusion and accelerate intra-African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) laying the foundation for a more integrated and self-reliant African economy.

Nigeria President Bola Tinubu, African billionaire and Philanthropist Tony Elumelu also graced the occasion among other African diplomats, media, business and political elites.

About PAPSS

The Pan-African Payment and Settlement System – PAPSS is a centralised Financial Market Infrastructure that enables the efficient flow of money securely across African borders, minimising risk and contributing to financial integration across the regions.

PAPSS works in collaboration with Africa’s central banks to provide a payment and settlement service to which commercial banks and licensed payment service providers across the region can connect as ‘Participants’.

Afreximbank and the African Union (“AU”) first announced PAPSS at the Twelfth Extraordinary Summit of the African Union held on July 7, 2019, in Niamey, Niger Republic, therefore adopting PAPSS as a key instrument for the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA).

Further, in its thirteenth (13th) extraordinary session, held on December 5, 2020, the assembly of the African Union directed Afreximbank and the AfCFTA secretariat to finalise, among others, work on the Pan-African Payments and Settlements System (PAPSS).

The 35th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the AU further directed the AfCFTA and Afreximbank to deploy the system to cover the entire continent.

PAPSS was officially launched in Accra, Ghana, on January 13, 2022, making it available for use by the public.

Report reveals rot at the Homa Bay County Finance Department, with integrity of payroll put to question

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By Team

A report by Homa Bay County Public Service Board has revealed serious integrity and corruption issues at the Finance Department.

The Board report found out discrepancies in salaries, payment of both special and basic salaries to some employees, failure by chief’s officers to account for human resources in their departments, unexplained removal and reinstatement of staff in the payroll, irregular health risk payment and non-compliance with allowance guidelines.

The report revealed of unexplained removal and reinstatement of Staff in the Payroll, which could have led the lose money. 

In the analysis of the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Database (IPPD) payroll for the period between June 2024 and November 2024, and the payroll for the period between December 2024, when HRIS payroll system was adopted, and May 2025 revealed that 430 individuals were being removed and returned in the payroll in different months of the year. 

Further, sample files of these employees reviewed had no information or letters explaining the removal and return of their details in the payroll sys

The Management did not provide any plausible explanation for the inconsistent appearance of these individuals in the payroll system.

As a result, it could not be confirmed if they are legitimate employees of the Homa Bay County Government. Poor human resource management practices.

The report recommended :

“Management should explain the reason for the removal and inclusion of the concerned staff. 

Management should ensure that personal files of employees are always updated.”

Failure by Chief Officers to Account for the Human Resource in Their Department 

Examination of payment vouchers relating to payment of monthly salaries revealed that they were supported by schedules that were not reviewed and approved by the Chief Officers of the respective departments.

As a result, it was impossible to confirm if the Chief Officers were able to account for the human resources within their departments.

Failure by the Chief Offices to account for their staff raises concerns about authenticity of payroll records pointing out to the existence of unverified staffs.

Recommendation

The chief officers of the County Government should verify the schedule of employees in their department before payment of salaries.

Irregular change in job groups

Examination of the payroll data and verification of records maintained by the County established the following:

  1. While the management did not advertise for promotions or appointments between July 2024 and May 2025, payroll data showed multiple changes in job groups leading to skipping of job groups. There were 614 employees whose job groups changed. Out of this number, 50 employees had their job groups changed two times between July 2024 and May 2025, while the job groups for the other 563 changed once. 
  2. Employee with personal number 20230246395 was irregularly redesignated from Revenue Clerk II to Personal Assistant, with a change in job group from H to M without any justification.

Irregularities in job group progressions may result in unforeseen payroll expenditures, disrupting planned financial allocations.

Recommendation 

  1. Management should ensure appointments, promotions and re-designations are conducted in a fair and transparent manner.
  2. Management should also take corrective action against irregular and unauthorized changes in the job groups.

Noncompliance with Allowances Guidelines 

The SRC Circular SRC/TS/29(81), dated 10 August 2023 on Remuneration and Benefits for Public Officers in the County Government Executive for The Third Remuneration Review Cycle 2021-2022 – 2023-2025 (7), lists all the earnings county executive officers are entitled to. 

Analysis of payroll data and comparison of salary and allowance processed through the IPPD and HRIS payroll systems revealed the following anomalies:

Staff Paid Both Basic Salary and Special Salary 

Review of payroll for the period between July 2024 and May 2025 revealed that there were fifteen employees (15) employees who were paid both basic salary and special salary.

Total amount of Kshs. 3,126,025 was paid where Kshs.2,155,100 was paid in form of basic salary while is Kshs.970,925 was paid in form of special salary.

Section 65(1) of the County Governments Act, 2012 set out factors County Public Service Board should consider in selecting candidates for appointment.

Further Section 65(2) specifies merit as one of the overriding factors in determining whether appointment, promotion or re-designation are undertaken in a fair and transparent manner.

Section B25(1) of the Human Resource Policies and Procedure manual for the public Service, 2016 provides that promotions in the public service will be based on qualifications and other requirements for appointment as stipulated in the career progression.

Use of erroneous data in the payroll system may lead to erroneous transactions.

Recommendations

  1. Management of Homa Bay County Government should institute measures to ensure that the payroll data is accurate and up to date.
  2. Management of Homa Bay County Government should institute measures to ensure the that employees’ personal files are updated.

Staff Earning Both Rental Allowance and Special House Allowance

There were also forty (40) employees who were earning both rental house allowance and special house allowance.

The total amount earned between July 2024 and May 2025 is Kshs.3,054,000.

Staff Earning Allowance They Do Not Usually Earn

Analysis of payroll data between July 2024 and May 2025 revealed that employees whose job designation and department of deployment do not attract extraneous duty allowance and health risk allowance were irregularly paid a total of Kshs.2,080,200.

This included Kshs.2,068,200 relating to Extraneous Duty Allowance that was paid to thirty-seven (37) employees, and Kshs.12,000 relating to Health Risk Allowance that was paid to two (2) employees, as shown below:

Risk

Loss of funds due to overpayment and irregular payment of allowances

Recommendation

  1. The Management should adhere to the set SRC guidelines on Remuneration and Benefits for Public Officer in the county governments.
  2. Management of should establish control measures to ensure that every employee only earns allowances applicable to them.
  3. Management should verify and confirm the designations of the employees, and their respective departments and, where necessary, recovery the irregularly paid allowances.

Salary Over-Commitment

Section 19(3) of the Employment Act, 2007 states that without prejudice to any right of recovery of any debt due, and notwithstanding the provisions of any other written law, the total amount of all deductions which under the provisions of subsection (1), may be made by an employer from the wages of his employee at any one time shall not exceed two-thirds of such wages or such additional or other amount as may be prescribed by the Minister either generally or in relation to a specified employer or employee or class of employers or employees or any trade or industry.

Finding

Analysis of the payroll of permanent staff of Homa Bay County Executive for the period between July 2024 and February 2025 revealed that some employees as shown in the table below received less than a third of their basic salary:

Pay MonthNumber of employees
July789
August758
September702
October1,436
November1,395
December23
February559

Employees on Acting Capacity

Criteria

Section 34 of the Public Service Act, 2017 states that an acting appointment shall be made by the lawful appointing authority and subject to the prescribed regulation and procedures which apply to appointments. An officer may be appointed in an acting capacity for a period of at least thirty days but not exceeding a period of six months.

Section C14(1) of the Human Resource Policies and Procedure manual for the Public Service, 2016 provides that when an officer is eligible for appointment to a higher post and is called upon to act in that post pending advertisement of the post, he is eligible for payment of acting allowance at the rate of twenty percent (20%) of his substantive basic salary.

Acting allowance will not be payable to an officer for more than six (6) months.

Finding

Analysis of the payroll revealed that a total of nine (9) employees as shown below have been on acting capacity during the year under review and have since drawn excess money of Kshs.836,978 as acting allowances.

It was noted that these employees have been on acting capacity for more than 6 months as shown below. In the circumstances, there was violation of the provisions of the act and irregular payment of allowances:

Non-Compliance with Law on Ethnic Diversity in Staffing

Sections 7(2) of the National Cohesion and Integration Act, 2008 provides that no public establishment shall have more than one third of its staff from the same ethnic community.

Section 65(1)(e) of the County Governments Act, 2012 stipulates that in selecting candidates for appointment, the County Public Service Board shall consider the need to ensure that at least thirty percent of the vacant posts at entry level are filled by candidates who are not from the dominant ethnic community in the county.

Finding

Analysis of the payroll for May 2025 revealed that Homa Bay County Executive had total work force of 7,202 out of which, 5,519 or 76% were from the same community.

  1. Recommendation

Management must ensure compliance with the provision of the law.

Kisumu County Assembly approves nominees to the County Public Service Board

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By Hope Barbra 

Kisumu County Assembly has approved the list of the nominees for the County Public Service Board.

Dr James Obondi Otieno becomes the chairman of the public service board for six year non-renewable.

The members of the board include Bill Otieno Omondi who is the Board’s Secretary, Dr Dinah Anyango Liech, Jennefer Atieno Adum, Ruth Atieno Koga, Dr Ambrose  Jagongo  and Joshua Oluoch Ochieng.

The Governor Prof Peter Anyang Nyong’o on June 13th/2025 forwarded the list of the nominees to the Assembly clerk.

In his memo Nyong’o wrote “The Selection panel conducted the recruitment process and having concluded the interviews submitted a report to the Governor to select suitable individuals to reconstitute the county public service board as required by law.

The governor has nominated the following person(s) to the chair, board secretary and members respectively.”

The committee of appointments chaired by the speaker Elisha Oraro  in its report wrote “We the undersigned members of the committee on appointments having considered the report on the vetting of the nominees for appointment to the Kisumu County Public Service Board made findings and recommendations there in, append our signatures to affirm that the contents of the report are true resolutions of the committee.”

Recently, the County government froze the employment and promotion of employees two months after it suspended the exercise late last year.

County secretary Heston Hongo in a circular to all the departments and county public service wrote “It has been directed that henceforth there shall be no new employment or promotion to permanent and pensionable term in the county government of Kisumu until advised otherwise,” in a memo dated 18th February 2025.

Last year, Hongo wrote to the Public Service Board suspending recruitment, contract extension, contract conversion to permanent and pensionable terms its Public Service Board.

The prospective new employees to the county government who had been interviewed and were successful are still waiting for a possible consideration.

To employees whose contracts had expired were rendered jobless by the action.

But in a reaction contained in a memo dated 11th November 2024 addressed to the County Secretary from the Kisumu County Public Service Board and was signed by then vice chairperson Dr Mary Jacinta A. Kapiyo read in part:

“The Board on receipt of the above, held a meeting on Monday 11th November 2024 to discuss its contents. 

As at the time of suspending recruitment, contract extension, contract conversion to permanent and pensionable terms, the Board had the following on going activities,” read the memo in parts.

The Board had conducted interviews after receiving requisition from different departments to recruit staff in various positions.

In the department office of the county attorney there were nine vacancies after availability of finance were confirmed, selection done but appointment letters were yet to be issued.

In the department of Trade, tourism, cooperatives, industry and marketing there eight positions with selection done and the board was waiting confirmation of availability of funds from the department.

In the department of Kisumu County Revenue Board there was one position vacant, and the selection had been done, and the board was waiting confirmation of availability of funds from the department.

In the department of energy, Transport, Roads and Public Works there were 109 vacant positions and selection had been done, with the availability of funds confirmed but the appointment letters were not yet issued.

In the department of Lands, Housing Physical Planning and Urban Development had 32 vacancies and availability of funds were confirmed with selection undertaken but the appointment letters were not yet issued.

In the department of Education, Technical Trainings, Innovation and Social Services had opportunities for assistant vocational and trainer (3) which has 10 vacancies while Early Childhood Development Education Teachers (ECDE) had 100 vacancies. 

The interview dates were scheduled to begin from 18th November 2024 to 2nd December 2023.

The Board observed that the process was initiated by the relevant departments and approved by the cabinet after confirmation of budget and consideration of several factors to justify the need subsequently, a formal request is made to the board.

“The Board received the reminder letter from the department of lands, housing, physical planning and urban development requesting the board to release names of successful candidates to enable the department operationalize  the municipalities.

This will ensure that the county government does not miss out on the conditional grant from Kenya urban support program (KUSP),”read the Memo in part.

The Board noted that it had in 2020 conducted interviews for ECDE teachers and selected candidates, but the appointment letters were never issued on account of lack of funds.

“Consequently, a repeat of the same will negatively impact on the board and the county government image to the public. Similarly, it will discourage applicants I future,” read the memo.

The Board said service delivery in education sector will be affected as exemplified with the number of schools without ECDE teachers in the county among other departments.

The County human resource management advisory committee had presented as request to convert 130 staff to permanent and pensionable terms on 8th October 2024 and after scrutiny of the individual physical staff files, the number was reduced to 43 and suitability interviews had been scheduled for Thursday 14th November 2024.

Kalonzo’s game plan for 2027 Presidency, why he is looking at the Mountain

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By Anderson Ojwang’

Former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka is preparing to make a second stab at the presidency in the 2027 general elections and is rolling out an elaborate strategy to propel him to Statehouse.

Kalonzo has shifted his focus from the Lake and is now eying the Mountain, which he claims are yet to settle his political debts they owe to him, when the community was faced by crisis.

His debts are arising from his support for President Mwai Kibaki during the 2007 controversial Presidential election and his recent support to the impeached deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

Among the strategies Kalonzo is instituting include rebranding of his Wiper Democratic Party to appeal the new vote block, association and identification with Mt Kenya by recreating GEMA alliance, possible alliance with  Gachugua and holding political rallies across the country.

Equally, Kalonzo has come to term with the absence of Forner Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who left Azimio La Umoja to join President Willliam Ruto Kenya Kwanza Government. Kalonzo is now ready to walk away from Raila’s shadows to chart his own political destination. 

Similarly, Kalonzo also feel let down by Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Raila Odinga for abandoning the opposition to join President William Ruto.

In his pursuit of the Mt Kenya, Kalonzo is hoping that the emergence of Gachagua as the defacto leader of Mt Kenya could earn him the region votes and propel him to presidency as it did to Ruto in the 2022 presidential election.

And picking cue from Gachagua over recreation of GEMA, Kalonzo during a TV interview has declared that the Gema unity that brought Kamba, the Gikuyu, Meru and Embu together during pre- and post-independence is back and roaring.

Speaking during a TV morning breakfast show, Kalonzo said even if Raila returned to the opposition fold, he will not play a leading role in the group’s unity and agenda.

Kalonzo said” As we speak the original Gema, now is not Gikuyu, Embu, Meru but now it is inclusive of their cousins in the Southern region of the Mountain.

It is back the same away, when it was during the president Jomo Kenyatta and Paul Ngei before they later fell out.

The elders have met led by Bishop Lawi Mathews, Bishop Peter Njenga, Canon  Karanja who is Executive Director of Gema.

The consultations have been undertaken, and they have arrived at proclamation.

Currently, they are speaking with their cousins of Mijikenda, Kissi and now Bukusu.

The numbers are exciting if you look at it.

If you look at the arithmetic, when Kibaki and I united together in 2007, we had the numbers and, I remember that those who united against Mt Kenya has re-united once again.’”

Gachagua while speaking in Seikuru village in Ukambani of Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and in Voi said “ I have been sent by the people of Mt Kenya to come and to look for our cousins. Cousins are you there?

We, Mt Kenya with the Kambas, Taita’s ,MijiKenda, Taveta, we are one family, we are cousins.

I want to tell you, I heard some people complaining that I am forming a political alliance with Kalonzo, why do you want to get involved in family affairs?

If someone has spoken to his cousin, is there any problem? You can also speak to your cousin.

You, Willam Ruto keep of family matters. Don’t get into our family affairs. Let me ask, should cousins stay together or not? Should the cousins walk together or not?”

Kalonzo said his supporters contributed to Raila’s significant performance in the last three presidential elections and his candidature will stir a new political dispensation and that the voter turnout would be huge.

“We are now reconstituting the opposition because Azimio is dead, the moment Raila joined Ruto’s government. it is open secret that Raila has betrayed me.

As a general you cannot leave your team to climb on the top of the tree while they remain stranded below the tree.

During the anti-financial bill in 2024, I went to Homa Bay and Nyanza, I asked the people if Zakayo has refused to climb down from the tree.

Do we cut the tree, and they responded in unison, cut the tree.

I thought my friend Raila could take heed from the public.

I want to make it clear, that Kenyans least expected that betrayal from Raila Odinga.

I have supported Raila on three occasions and people are asking what type of a person is Kalonzo.

Some people are thinking that Kalonzo can be hoodwinked by Raila to join Ruto.

Let them forget about that.

I will be where the people are, and I have realized that this is the best way to do it.

I have been called several names, those who nicknamed me such names have come to possess the names,” he said.

He said the opposition team was ready to face off with the president Ruto and that should Raila join them he wouldn’t be in the forefront.

“We already have some many people, It is possible he may come but let him go at the back end. We have planned ourselves.

We have Rigathi Gachagua, Fred Matiangi, Eugene Wamalwa, Martha Karua, JB Muturi and Mukhisa Kituyi,” he said.

In a gazette Notice dated 18th June 2025 by the Registrar of Political Parties, Ann Ndungu captioned Change of political party name she wrote:

“In exercise of the power conferred by section 20 (1) (d) of the political parties Act, the Registrar of political parties gives notice that Wiper Democratic Movement (WDM) intends to change its party name to Wiper Patriotic Front (WPF).

Any person with written submission concerning the intended change by the political party shall within seven days from the date of this publication deposit them with the Registrar of political patties.”

Kalonzo during the interview maintained that he was the most suitable candidate and appealed to his colleagues to support his bid.

He declined to commit whether he would support another presidential candidate should the opposition team fail to endorse his candidature.

EDITED BY: HOPE BARBRA

THE RESPECT IMPERATIVE: WHY KENYA’S FUTURE DEMANDS MORE THAN ANGER

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Raila

By Remmy Butia

Kenya stands at a crossroads. The passionate energy of Gen Z, channeled into protests, has undeniably shaken the political landscape. While the right to dissent is fundamental to democracy, a troubling undercurrent has emerged: a palpable erosion of basic respect for the office of the Presidency and the person holding it. This isn’t about stifling criticism or blind loyalty to President Dr. William Kipchirchir Samoei Ruto. It’s about safeguarding the fabric of our nation and understanding that the seeds we sow today – including how we express our discontent – will inevitably shape the Kenya we reap tomorrow.

Beyond Ruto: The Seeds We Sow

The fervent cheers by some political leaders, the clergy and the civil society organizations for the Gen Z movement, while understandable expressions of frustration, often overlook a crucial truth: the consequences of sustained disrespect and toxic political discourse transcend any single administration. It’s easy to direct vitriol at the current occupant of State House; President William Ruto, believing the fallout is contained. This is a dangerous illusion.

The aggressive name-calling, the relentless personal attacks, the normalization of shouting down and demeaning the Head of State – these are not tactics confined to one presidency. They establish a precedent. They lower the bar for acceptable political engagement. What happens when those cheering the loudest today; Dr Fred Matiang’i, Kalonzo Musyoka, Eugene Wamalwa, Justin Muturi or even Rigathi Gachagua find themselves in positions of power tomorrow? Will they inherit a nation where respectful debate is the norm, or one where the currency of politics is raw contempt and character assassination? The disrespect normalized today becomes the weapon used against any future leader, potentially including those currently leading the charge of criticism.

Patience Under Fire: A Lesson in Temperament

Regardless of one’s political stance, President Dr William Ruto has demonstrated an extraordinary degree of patience in the face of unprecedented public vitriol. The sheer volume and intensity of negative energy directed personally at him – far beyond policy critique into the realm of insult and dehumanization – is unmatched in recent Kenyan history. The fact that he has consistently maintained his composure, refrained from inflammatory retaliation, and continued to engage (even if his responses are deemed insufficient by critics) is noteworthy. This isn’t an endorsement of his policies, but an acknowledgment of temperament under immense pressure. Dismissing this resilience sets a concerning standard for how leaders should be treated.

Respect = Agreement: The Foundation of Nationhood

Demanding respect for leaders is not synonymous with demanding agreement. Robust, even fierce, criticism of policies, decisions, and governance failures is not only acceptable but essential for a healthy democracy. Accountability is paramount. However, this accountability must be exercised through constructive channels – through reasoned debate in Parliament, through investigative journalism, through the courts, and through peaceful, organized civic action that focuses on issues, not personal destruction.

Respect for the office and the individual holding it, even while vehemently disagreeing, is the bedrock upon which stable institutions are built. It’s about recognizing that the Presidency represents the sovereignty of the Kenyan people. When we reduce the highest office in the land to a target for crude insults and constant, undignified berating, we don’t just demean the individual; we chip away at the dignity of the institution itself and, by extension, the nation it serves.

The Danger of Burning Bridges for Short-Term Gain

The call to “not burn this nation for selfish political gains” is urgent. Exploiting genuine public anger, stoking flames of hatred towards individuals, and normalizing disrespect as a political strategy might yield short-term advantages for some factions. But it comes at a catastrophic long-term cost. It deepens divisions, erodes social cohesion, and makes constructive governance incredibly difficult. A nation perpetually at war with itself, where leaders are treated as enemies rather than fellow citizens entrusted with a difficult job, cannot prosper. It creates an environment of instability that scares away investment, stifles development, and ultimately harms every single Kenyan.

The Path Forward: Demanding Accountability with Dignity

The energy and passion of Kenya’s youth are invaluable assets. Their demands for better governance, economic opportunity, and an end to corruption are legitimate and must be addressed with seriousness. However, the method matters profoundly.

  1. Focus on Policy, Not Personality: Channel the incredible mobilization power into specific, actionable policy demands and solutions. Hold leaders accountable for their actions and decisions.
  2. Utilize Democratic Institutions: Strengthen Parliament, the Judiciary, independent commissions, and the media as the primary arenas for accountability. Participate in them, reform them if needed, but use them.
  3. Demand Respectful Engagement: Expect leaders to engage respectfully with citizens, and model that respect even in fierce disagreement. Civility is not weakness; it’s the strength of a mature democracy.
  4. Build, Don’t Just Break: Critique is vital, but also propose, innovate, and engage in nation-building efforts. Offer alternatives, not just condemnation.

Reaping What We Sow

Kenya’s future greatness hinges not just on what we demand, but how we demand it. The relentless disrespect, the toxic discourse, the normalization of contempt for the Presidency – these are seeds that, if allowed to take root, will yield a bitter harvest of perpetual division and instability, regardless of who is in power.

We can honor the passion for change driving the youth while simultaneously upholding the respect due to the institutions and offices that define our republic. President Ruto’s patience offers an unexpected lesson: composure under fire is possible.

Let us demand accountability fiercely, but let us also demand it with the dignity and respect befitting a nation that aspires to unity and progress. For the Kenya we save from burning today is the Kenya we will all inhabit tomorrow.

Let’s build it on foundations of respect, robust debate, and unwavering commitment to our shared future, not on the ashes of contempt. Our tribal democracy must be replaced with issue-based politics.

Wanga and Gogo Lead GBV Sensitization and Distribution of Sh50M NG-CDF Bursary in Rangwe

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By Habil Onyango

Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga at the weekend presided over an event focused on Anti-Gender-Based Violence (GBV) sensitization at Asumbi Girls High School in the Rangwe Constituency.

The event also marked the launch of the distribution of the NG-CDF bursary, in which a total of Sh50 million was allocated to support the education of underprivileged students across various educational institutions.

During the event, Wanga, accompanied by local Member of Parliament Dr. Lilian Gogo, addressed critical issues including GBV, femicide, and teenage pregnancies, highlighting their detrimental effects on the county’s transformative agenda. Governor Wanga stated.

According to the KLIN situation analysis report, there are estimated five GBV cases being reported while an estimated other 10 are being prosecuted yearly.

Defilement remains the leading GBV, followed by assault by couples and assault by relatives in Rangwe.

However, in tackling the GBV cases, the Constituency still faces some challenges which include lack of enough stationery, insufficient telephone airtime, lack of fuel, and lack of enough rape kits and evidence bags by the Police Officers handling the cases.

“Today, hosted by Hon. Dr. Gogo, we launched the Rangwe NG-CDF student bursaries and engaged the public on GBV, femicide, and teenage pregnancies.”

She underscored that sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) constitutes a severe human rights violation with enduring physical and psychological repercussions for victims, often compounded by perpetrators evading justice due to inadequate evidence documentation.

Wanga remarked, “GBV, femicide, and teenage pregnancies are pressing threats that we are diligently addressing as leaders.”

She praised Hon. Dr. Gogo for her steadfast commitment to the advocacy of education and social justice.

According to the Kenya Demographic Health Survey (KDHS 2022), 54 percent of women aged 15-49 have experienced physical violence, while 23 percent have encountered sexual violence. Additionally, the survey revealed that Homa Bay County exhibits the highest incidence of sexual violence in the Nyanza region.

In response to these alarming statistics, Governor Wanga articulated that her administration has formulated a comprehensive policy and legislative framework aimed at eradicating cases of SGBV within the county through multi-sectoral interventions and programming.

Furthermore, partnerships have been established to create GBV centers that provide holistic services for survivors.

The event was attended by other Members of Parliament, including Dr. Eve Obara from Kabondo Kasipul and Fatuma Mohammed from Migori.

MP Gogo emphasized that GBV impacts not only women and girls but also men, families, and entire communities, thereby undermining collective well-being. She stated,

“She said that the initiative not only uplifts countless students through educational support but also addresses the urgent need to combat GBV in our communities.”

Gogo noted that Homa Bay County, especially Rangwe Constituency, faces elevated rates of GBV, with numerous incidents involving physical and sexual violence against women.

“While GBV disproportionately affects women and girls, men and boys can also be victims,” she added.

Gogo emphasized the necessity of a multi-sectoral approach that incorporates stakeholders such as healthcare providers, law enforcement, and community organizations in the fight against GBV.

“Tackling GBV requires coordinated efforts across various sectors, including healthcare and law enforcement,” Gogo explained.

She further highlighted the importance of enhancing access to justice for survivors through the removal of barriers to reporting and ensuring the proper handling of complex cases.

Additionally, she mentioned that training programs for healthcare professionals and law enforcement officers are crucial for effective prevention and response to GBV.

“The program will target the underlying causes of GBV, such as harmful gender stereotypes and social norms,” she declared.

Gogo commended Hon. Fatuma and Dr. Obara for their robust advocacy and presence, illustrating that united women leaders can drive meaningful change.

“Together, these leaders exemplify the commitment to ensuring safety, equality, and opportunity for all. Asumbi will remember this day as a significant milestone in progress and empowerment, and we must break the silence and stand united against all forms of violence,” Gogo concluded.

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