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Regulating Social Media Is Not a Solution: The Energy of Gen Z in Kenya Can Be Productively Enhanced for Job Creation

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By Dr. Edris N. Omondi (Advocate)edrisadvocates@gmail.com //www.edrisomondi.com

Of recent times, Kenyan policymakers have floated the idea of regulating social media as a means to curb misinformation, online activism, and what some call “unproductive online behavior.”

However, these conversations often ignore a vital truth: Kenya’s Generation Z—the most active social media demographic—is not a problem to be silenced.

They are an untapped resource, full of creativity, energy, and digital fluency.

Instead of tightening controls, the government and private sector should focus on channeling Gen Z’s digital engagement into economic opportunities and job creation.

The Rise of Gen Z Digital Natives

Born between the late 1990s and early 2010s, Gen Z Kenyans have grown up in the era of mobile internet, memes, online activism, TikTok challenges, and digital communities.

They are fluent in navigating digital landscapes, using social media not just for entertainment, but also for learning, self-expression, entrepreneurship, and advocacy.

Whether it’s a viral TikTok dance that sells a product, a thread on X (formerly Twitter) highlighting social injustices, or a YouTube vlog that showcases hidden travel gems in Kenya, Gen Z is constantly creating, curating, and influencing.

This is not idle behavior—it’s digital labor with cultural and sometimes financial value.

The Flawed Approach of Regulation

Attempts to regulate social media often come cloaked in the language of “national security,” “morality,” or “protecting the youth.”

While it’s true that online spaces need moderation to prevent cyberbullying, fraud, and misinformation, sweeping regulations risk stifling free expression and shutting down platforms where youth have found voice and identity.

More worryingly, such regulation can be a way to avoid confronting the deeper economic issues facing young people: unemployment, underemployment, and limited access to meaningful economic participation.

Rethinking the Role of Social Media

Rather than framing social media as a threat, Kenya must reimagine it as a tool for economic empowerment. There are several ways to achieve this:

1. Digital Skills Training: Kenya can invest in scalable digital training programs targeting youth. Content creation, digital marketing, coding, graphic design, and e-commerce are just a few of the skills Gen Z are already exploring informally—why not formalize and support these with structured education?

2. Creative Economy Support: Social media influencers, digital storytellers, artists, and podcasters are part of the growing creative economy. With better policy frameworks, funding, and access to global markets, these talents can translate into full-time jobs and even exportable services.

3. Innovation Hubs & Incubators: County Governments like Kisumu that have already made head-on incubators can be further supported. Private sector players should support innovation hubs that mentor and fund youth-led startups. Many Gen Z entrepreneurs are already using platforms like Instagram and TikTok to launch businesses in fashion, beauty, agriculture, and tech.

4. Public-Private Partnerships: The government can partner with tech companies like Afridata to launch initiatives that create jobs, promote digital literacy, and support online safety without limiting freedom of expression.

A Generation of Change-Makers

Kenya’s Gen Z is not apathetic or a collection of mental delinquents.

They have been exposed through the best of our educational system, vertically guiding their mental growth and horizontally grounding them for self-employment and prepared to confront a future that is AI generated.

They care deeply about justice, identity, climate, entrepreneurship, and the future of this great County called Kenya, their patriotic inclined habitat.

We’ve seen them lead online movements like #EndFemicideKE, push for accountability in governance, and champion homegrown brands. Their energy is not the problem—it is the solution; the question is how we as a nation direct this energy from ‘sulfurizing the social media hubris’ to give this nation a desirous output!

The future of work is digital, and Kenya is well-positioned to lead in Africa if it leverages its youthful population.

Social media should be seen not as a battlefield, but as a bridge—one that connects Kenyan youth to the world, amplifies their voices, and unlocks economic potential.

Conclusion

Regulating social media may offer a temporary illusion of control, but it will not solve the real issues facing Kenya’s youth.

What is needed is vision—a commitment to building systems that recognize and support the digital ambitions of Gen Z.

By investing in their energy and digital talent, Kenya won’t just avoid conflict; it will create jobs, stimulate innovation, and secure a prosperous future.

When Kenya Leads, the rest of Africa Policy makers easily plagiarize the Gen-Z social platform solutions.

The solution is not in deterrence but progressive realization of technology and its ability to transform lives positively.

Raila rejects overtures from Gachagua for Presidency in 2027 elections

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By Anderson Ojwang                                

President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga are fast becoming Siamese twins, and their political union has been emboldening after Raila rejected political overtures from the opposition group to make him president.

Speaking at funeral in Siaya county, Raila dismissed calls by the impeached deputy President Rigathi Gachagua  that he joins them so that they could make him become president in 2027.

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 quoting a Luo proverb said jowi mager ema ichuogo piene, koro wachuogo pien (brave rhino is the one whose skin is used for tanning).

Raila asked the Luo community 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.

Gachagua while in the office took to criticizing Raila and even said that he had laid traps in the Statehouse for Raila to negate his entry to meet the president.

For instance, during the burial of Mau Mau veteran General Mathenge in Nyandarua, Gachagua took issue with Raila for asking him to allow the ongoing consultation between Azimio and the Kenya Kwanza Government.

Raila said at the funeral “If we can hold consultations, that is in order.

Riggy G there is no harm in people talking.

Let people have talks even if you don’t want to hear my word, just listen to what I say.

We don’t want half of the loaf, what and which kind of bread ?

I do not want to become deputy president, I don’t want to be prime minister.

I am not interested.

Stop panicking.

I have not spoken or even met Ruto”

But Gachagua responded “ Former Prime Minister, we have not rejected salutations and talks but we fear you.

The reason, you came and had handshake with our son former president Uhuru Kenyatta.

He was a good person, he, loved and worked for us.

But when you got into handshake with him, he changed.

We from the Mt Kenya, we fear you.

Be like your father, help us in the fight for the land that belonged to the Mau Mau and were taken away and those who have possessed those lands are your friends.

Help us get back the land.”

During the last week’s visit of Kisumu and Homa Bay county by President Ruto, Raila and Ruto exhibit symbolic imageries by driving in a same vehicle in Kisumu and frying fish together at the newly opened Homa Bay fish market.

Siaya Governor James Orengo is the only leader from the region against the political union between Ruto and Raila and he has come under condemnations from local leaders led by Siaya senator Oburu Oginga and ODM national chairperson Gladys Wanga.

Political analyst Prof Otieno Obondi argued that Raila is making it clear to the community that the time for opposition politics was over and that no member of the community should die in the streets again.

“Luos are not going back to opposition and him, Raila will not join the opposition leaders.

There are no more fightings.

Let us leave bravery behind and benefit from the government projects.

The People asking him to join them are same people who refused to vote for him during the elections.

They see him as tool to be used and later dumped after they have crossed the bridge.

Raila has learnt the hard way and now understands the game better.

They are now Siamese twin in politics, and the opposition is only interested in sowing the seed of discord to break them,” he argued.

Engineer Washington Omondi Ogaga said the declaration by Raila was a milestone to the Luo community.

“The Luo community has long been recognized for its cohesion, passion, and decisiveness in the pursuit of good governance and equity. 

This dedication has been evident since the pre-independence era, culminating in Jaramogi Oginga Odinga’s historic demand for the release of Jomo Kenyatta before accepting any instruments of power.

Following Kenyatta’s release, the course of Kenya’s history was irrevocably changed.

Today, the Luo community stands at a pivotal moment.

There is no longer a need to return to the streets in protest, as President William Ruto and Prime Minister Raila Odinga have presented an unprecedented opportunity on the negotiating table.

President Ruto has demonstrated his full confidence in and comfort with working alongside the Luo community. 

Similarly, Raila Odinga has extended his goodwill, ensuring that the community is strategically positioned to support President Ruto’s return to Statehouse in 2027 and to form the next government.

The Luo community has endured the role of opposition for far too long, to the point where their plight became normalized.

This prolonged opposition has led other major communities to perceive the Luos as natural activists, primarily known for holding successive regimes accountable.

Unfortunately, this perception has been exploited by some senior politicians, often at the expense of the community’s broader interests.

We stand united in declaring that this exploitation must end.

The Luo community is ready to embrace a new chapter, one where their contributions to governance and equity are recognized and valued.

With the support of President Ruto and Prime Minister Raila Odinga, the Luo community is poised to play a crucial role in shaping Kenya’s future, ensuring that their legacy of diligence and dedication continues to thrive,” he said.

The Madaraka Day Celebrations: A Major Milestone for Homa Bay

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By Habil Onyango

Government spokesperson Dr. Isaac Mwaura ON Saturday announced that Homa Bay is set to make history by hosting this year’s significant Madaraka Day celebrations.

He expressed great pride and anticipation for the event, which will take place for the first time at the newly commissioned Raila Odinga Stadium.

President William Ruto is scheduled to preside over the 62nd Madaraka Day celebrations on June 1 at the Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay. Dr. Mwaura stated, “As we stand on the cusp of the 62nd Madaraka Day celebrations, it is with great pride and anticipation that we gather in Homa Bay County, a region poised to make history by hosting this significant national event for the first time at the newly commissioned Raila Odinga Stadium.”

According to Dr. Mwaura, the modern 12,000-seater facility symbolizes the transformative power of devolution and the government’s commitment to equitable development across Kenya.

The theme for this year’s celebrations is “Harnessing Kenya’s Blue Economy for Sustainable Growth,” focusing on 62 years of internal self-governance while showcasing the transformative potential of the nation’s aquatic resources to uplift lives, create jobs, and drive economic prosperity.

Dr. Mwaura emphasized that the celebrations, held in the heart of Nyanza region, are more than just a festivity; they are a testament to the Kenya Kwanza administration’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).

This agenda prioritizes the blue economy and maritime affairs in fostering sustainable development by unlocking the untapped potential of these sectors.

“The choice of Homa Bay, with its proximity to Lake Victoria, is both deliberate and symbolic. It underscores our commitment to harness the vast opportunities within our lakes, rivers, and coastal waters to stimulate sustainable economic growth, create jobs, and enhance livelihoods, particularly for lakeside communities,” he said.

Dr. Mwaura highlighted the significant potential of the blue economy, encompassing various sectors such as fishing, aquaculture, maritime transport, tourism, and marine technology, all of which hold immense promise for Kenya’s economic transformation.

He noted that under the BETA initiative, the government has made substantial strides, with communities in Homa Bay and beyond already experiencing positive impacts.

While speaking at Tom Mboya University in Homa Bay during his weekly press briefings, Dr. Mwaura shared that preparations for Madaraka Day have spurred significant infrastructure development in the region, creating a lasting legacy.

“The Raila Odinga Stadium, constructed at a cost of Ksh 500 million, now features modern terraces, natural turf, and floodlights, making it a hub for sports and community events,” he said.

“Over 35 kilometers of roads, including the Homa Bay Pier–Stadium Road and access to the County Government Headquarters in Arujo, have been rehabilitated or constructed, improving connectivity for fishers, traders, and tourists,” he added.

Furthermore, the spokesperson mentioned the upgraded Kabunde Airstrip, which is nearing completion on a runway extension that will accommodate larger aircraft, thus boosting tourism and trade.

Dr. Mwaura also revealed plans for developing fish landing sites, such as Wakula, Mainuga, and Nyandiwa in Homa Bay County, with an investment of Ksh 1.5 billion.

Architectural designs have been finalized, and contracts will soon be awarded.

“Lake Victoria is a lifeline for Homa Bay’s residents, and the government is prioritizing sustainable fisheries to enhance livelihoods.

This includes modern facilities such as cold storage and processing units aimed at reducing post-harvest losses and ensuring better prices for fishers,” he explained.

Other projects highlighted by Dr. Mwaura include the Homa Bay Modern Fish Market, which was launched by President William Ruto, as well as the refurbished Homa Bay Pier and improved roads to enhance water-based tourism, such as boat tours, creating opportunities for local guides and boosting the county’s appeal as a tourist destination.

He further emphasized the government’s commitment to capacity building through initiatives like the Maritime Centre of Excellence at Tom Mboya University, which will train professionals in aquaculture and maritime technology.

“President Ruto has committed to securing funding to advance this project, empowering young people like Grace Anyango, a student aspiring to lead conservation efforts for Lake Victoria,” he concluded.

Government Announces Road Closures in Homa Bay for Madaraka Day Celebrations

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By Habil Onyango

The National Government announced on Saturday that several roads in Homa Bay will be closed during the Madaraka Day celebrations taking place at Raila Odinga Stadium.

Florence Mworoa, the Nyanza Regional Commissioner, stated that these closures are in effect for the duration of the 62nd Madaraka Day celebrations.

This landmark ceremony, the first of its kind to be held in Homa Bay County, will be presided over by President William Ruto and Slovenian President Natasa Pirc Musar who will be the main chief guest

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, among other dignitaries are also expected to grace the occassion

During a media briefing held at the Cold Springs Hotel on Saturday morning, Mworoa outlined the plans for crowd control, traffic diversion, emergency response, and designated parking areas to ensure the safety of all participants.

She instructed, “Roads around the stadium, State Lodge, and County Commissioner’s office will be closed to regular traffic and reserved for dignitaries.”

Furthermore, motorists traveling from Kisumu and Kendu Bay to Mbita, Oyugis, Rongo, Kisii, and Migori who are not attending the event will need to divert at Olare to Imbo-Rodi to avoid congestion. Those coming from Kisii, Migori, and Oyugis heading to Kisumu (also not attending) should branch off at Rodi to Imbo, rejoining the route at Olare.

Accompanied by the Homa Bay County Commissioner and other government officials, Mworoa announced additional traffic directives: “All vehicles coming from Rodi into Homa Bay that are not attending Madaraka Day will be diverted at the Kodoyo/Mbita junction to the main matatu stage. Vehicles from Kisumu heading to Rodi will be diverted at the matatu stage to the Kodoyo/Mbita junction,” she explained.

Celebrants arriving from Kisumu will be diverted at Makongeni to drop off passengers at the stadium and park in designated areas, including Asego Comprehensive School, KMTC, Tourist Hotel, Got Rabuor Primary and Secondary Schools, or SDA Central Church. Additionally, buses will park at Homa Bay Primary School. Vehicles coming from Rodi will also be diverted at the Kodoyo/Mbita junction for drop-off before proceeding to the same designated parking lots.

According to the announced directives, all VVIP and VIP vehicles heading to the Garden Party will drop off at the State Lodge gate and park at LaSalle and Lake Primary School. Government vehicles are to park at the Homa Bay Police Station and the County Commissioner’s office compound.

Mworoa emphasized, “Matatus, buses, and boda bodas should use the main matatu stage for parking. We warmly welcome everyone to the Madaraka Day celebrations at Homa Bay.”

She mentioned that all preparations for the event are complete, with attendees expected to be seated by 6 a.m., and stadium gates opening as early as 4 a.m. “We want to welcome everyone to the Madaraka Day celebrations; all arrangements are finalized,” she assured.

Thanks to the support of President Ruto’s government, the stadium has been expanded and can now accommodate up to 12,000 people.

The emerging mantra of “Wantam and Tutam” shaping country’s political terrain ahead of 2027 Elections

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By Anderson Ojwang

Kenya’s political scene is developing euphoria on a mantra of the terms in the office, with “Wantam and Tutam” gaining prominence in the country’s political landscape.

The Wantam proponents are targeting the presidency, governors, Members of Parliament and Members of the County Assembly with the rallying call that they must exit office come 2027 elections.

But the opponents currently serving their first term too have developed a mantra of ‘Tutam bila break’ in quest to be re-elected based on their service delivery and development records.

They say “kumi bila break” (Ten years non-stop) in a response to their opponents who have rolled out campaigns to woo the electorates to send them home in the 2027 general elections.

From the political podium, social media platforms to the musical world, the mantra is gaining and occupying the audience as a discussion of interest. It is shaping the country’s battle ground and could be one of the main influencers in the 2027 general elections.

Save for the few governors who are in their final terms, majority in their first term are faced with the dilemma of the Wantam mantra that is sweeping across the country.

Already, the governors have embarked on early campaigns to avoid falling victims to the mantra while their opponents have also not been left sleeping. The campaign mood has gripped the country and the euphoria is real.

Impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, the key proponent of the Wantam mantra, has trained his gun on President William Ruto with a view to deny him a second and final term as the fifth President of Kenya.

“Kasongo aende ama asiende? (Should Kasongo go or not?) People of Githurai, I am from Gatundu, but I made a stopover to greet you people, even though it is raining. You are my people, we have suffered together. This person lied to us.

This person came with the Bible. I have united with other likeminded leaders—Martha Karua, Eugene Wamalwa, Kalonzo Musyoka, Fred Matiang’i. We will give you one presidential candidate.

You say he is Wantam. Say Wantam. Kasongo is Wantam. What is the ground saying? Wantam,” he said.

President Ruto, in his response, has dismissed his opponents, saying he is not worried about his popularity but is happy with his performance that will make the electorate re-elect him in the 2027 presidential election.

Ruto responded, “Kisumu wakisema Wantam mnasema nini? Kumi bila break! Eti Kisumu, what do you tell them? Tutam na Kumi bila break. Wamesikia au hawajasikia?” (People of Kisumu if they say Wantam, what do you say? Tutam and ten years nonstop. I hope they have heard).

Ruto promised his competitors a grueling battle at the 2027 contest, where he will humble them.

“Hawa watu wa makelele, wanasumbua kwa mtandao, sijui wapi, hawa watu wako na kazi ngumu sana kushindana na mimi. Si mambo yao tu ni kuchora kwa internet na kushunguka na fitina.

Hawa tutawanyorosha asubuhi na mapema.

Kuna wengine hapa wananiambia niendelee kupigiwa makofi. Mimi sitaji makofi. Sijui kama tunaelewana. Kuna kazi zingine zitafanyika bila makofi.

Nyinyi ambayo munatafuta makofi endeleeni kutafuta makofi. Wale wanatafuta umarufu, endeleeni kutafuta umarufu. Najua hawa watu wengine ni wageni, wamefika juzi kwa hii siasa. Si mimi nimekuwa around hapa.

Unajua kuna watu wa porojo mingi. Eti wanajaribu kushindana na sisi. Sasa, wewe mtu wa fitina, ukabila, shares, sijui mtego, utashindana na nani hii Kenya? Ukinipima kabisa, watu wa Kakamega, watu wa chuki, bangi, ukabila na mtego watawezana na mimi?” Ruto said.

Medic and political analyst Prof. Obondi Otieno says it is too early to make a judgment, but the political landscape is still equivocal.

“Both the antagonistic groups are sedimenting into regional or tribal cocoons. No tangible issues are being brought on the table.

The Tutam is bogged with one scandal after another while the Wantam proponents exhibit very scary ethnic rhetoric. So far there is nothing serious voters can derive to make an informed decision on who to vote for.

The gullible voters have easy rides. They base their resolve on tribal hatred and what their cultist political godfathers tell them during social gatherings.

I agree with the latter voter groups because politics doesn’t change much in their daily livelihood. But as time tickles, a lot of things change in the political ecosystem.

All said, Ruto is likely to get sympathy votes from the politically marginalized groups such as the Coast, Nyanza, Western, Rift Valley and even Ukambani, depending on the outcome of the Karua, Gachagua, Kalonzo group’s decision,” he argues.

Political commentator Patrick Ouya says Kenya is witnessing an interesting political moment where voters will elect leaders based on performance and not rhetorics.

“Whether you are in your first term or sixth term, if your performance is below average, just know you are going home. In 2027 elections, we will.”

History in the Making as President Ruto Grants Opportunity for the First Mashemeji Derby in Western Kenya

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By Anderson Ojwang

The age-long dream by soccer fanatics from Western Kenya to have the Mashemeji Derby played in the region is coming to reality in Homa Bay County during the Madaraka Day celebrations.

President William Ruto is finally fulfilling the six-decade-old dream of staging the Mashemeji Derby—pitting the famous Gor Mahia against their arch and bitter rivals AFC Leopards—in the region.

It is indeed history in the making: the first time Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards will face off outside Nairobi, which has long been the home ground for the two of the country’s most popular teams.

For Gor Mahia, it is a historic moment to host AFC Leopards at the Raila Odinga Stadium, just 40 kilometers from the home of Gor K’Ogalo, the former Chief of Kanyamwa in Ndhiwa, from whom the team draws its name.

And for AFC Leopards, it will be historic for the team to exert revenge on Gor Mahia in front of their home fans and gain bragging rights, after suffering a series of successive losses to Gor Mahia in past Mashemeji Derbies, save for a few draws.

When President Ruto announced that the Madaraka celebrations would be hosted in Homa Bay County, he opened the door for the derby to be played at the stadium.

The stadium, a pet project of former Governor Cyprian Otieno Awiti—also a former deputy patron of Gor Mahia and an avid supporter of the team—will on June 1st, 2025, become part of the country’s history.

Awiti is credited for constructing the stadium and naming it after opposition leader Raila Odinga, himself a former footballer.

It will be a double-historic moment: the stadium will host the Madaraka Day celebrations and later, the Mashemeji Derby, which will be attended by top dignitaries.

Awiti left the stadium 80 percent complete, while President Ruto expanded and completed the facility to international standards, with a seating capacity of 20,000 people and additional amenities.

Internal Security and Administration Permanent Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo said Homa Bay town, which previously had modest infrastructure, has been elevated into a national hub capable of hosting one of the country’s key national public holidays.

“Homa Bay town has witnessed a comprehensive infrastructural upgrade, and the plan to prepare the town for its historic role is on schedule,” he said.

Omollo said the transformation has resulted in a fully modernized Raila Odinga Stadium, upgraded road networks, the rehabilitation of Kabunde Airstrip, improved public facilities, and a rejuvenated waterfront.

“At the Raila Odinga Stadium, the government expanded the seating capacity and upgraded the facilities, ensuring it meets national ceremonial standards for the event.
The seating has been increased to accommodate 20,000 spectators, while the construction of terraces, roofing of pavilions, and installation of security features will ensure the safety and comfort of all guests,” he said.

He added that the stadium will have a media zone, emergency exits, floodlights, and modern parade grounds—making it suitable for sports tournaments, regional events, and national state functions.

Omollo said that in a bid to improve access to the venue and overall transport in the area, the government is upgrading more than 35 kilometers of roads within and around the town.

Gor Mahia was formally established on 17 February 1968 as a merger of Luo Union and Luo Sports Club (also known as Luo Stars) and won the national league in their debut season.

Some of its original leaders included politicians Tom Mboya and Jaramogi Oginga Odinga. However, the club’s roots date back to 1915, participating intermittently in local tournaments in Western Kenya. Various groups used the name at different times.

After the merger of Luo Union and Luo Sports Club, the team was named after a legendary medicine man from Kanyamwa, Ndhiwa, in Luo mythology. His name was Gor Mahia (“mahia” means “magic” in Luo), known for his magical powers.

The club’s famous nickname, K’Ogalo, stems from the medicine man’s full name—Gor Wuod Ogada Nyakwar Ogalo (Gor, son of Ogada, grandson of Ogalo). He was known as Gor Mak’Ogalo or Gor K’Ogalo in short, meaning “Gor of Ogalo’s homestead.“

Several prominent Luos met in Nairobi to christen the club. The name Gor Mahia was selected from a shortlist of Luo cultural heroes and warriors such as: Nyathi Kwach; Lwanda Magere from Kano; Okore Wuod Ogonda Mumbo from Kisumu; Ogutu Wuod Kipapi from Ugenya; Kech Kamajwala from Asembo; and Tao K’Ogot from Ugenya.

Gor Mahia won the league title in their inaugural season in 1968 with legendary striker William Ouma “Chege” scoring 19 goals. They won the league title again in 1974. In 1976, Gor Mahia became the first Kenyan football club to win the National League unbeaten, led by playmaker and coach Allan Thigo.

AFC Leopards enjoys support from the Luhya community. It was originally known as Abaluhya Football Club Leopards Sports Club, officially abbreviated as AFC Leopards, and was founded in 1964 by football enthusiasts from the Luhya community.

With 12 top-flight league titles, AFC Leopards is Kenya’s third most successful club, behind Tusker (13 titles) and Gor Mahia.

From the 1960s, or even earlier, various Abaluhya teams were formed for invitational matches—setting the stage for the birth of Abaluhya United.

On 12 March 1964, the East African Standard reported the formation of a new club, Abaluhya Football Club, from the amalgamation of Marama, Samia United, and Bunyore—all Nairobi-based clubs in Division 1 of the Kenya National Football League.

The merger also included lower division clubs such as Kisa, Tiriki, Bukusu Brotherhood, Busamia, Lurambi, Butsotso, Bushibungo, and Eshirotsa—building the club’s strong base and future success.

Chairman of AFC Leopards, Dr. Dan Shikanda, promised Gor Mahia a tough match and pledged to take revenge on their rivals.

“I can tell you—we are coming to Homa Bay for a win, nothing less or more. We want to tame our rivals in their own backyard. We want to be part of history. We are prepared for the game. It is our game to lose,” he said.

Traoré’s Rallying Cry for African Sovereignty—A Bold Reawakening in the Shadow of History

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By Kepher Otieno

Burkina Faso’s 34-year-old President Ibrahim Traoré is not just governing a landlocked West African nation; he is attempting to lead a continental awakening. In fiery speeches and bold policy proclamations, Traoré has called out foreign media and global powers for what he terms the “institutionalized narrative of neocolonialism“—a persistent portrayal of Africa as a continent of misery, disease, corruption, and poverty.

For years, he argues, Africa’s image has been shaped not by its realities, but by a deeply entrenched Western lens, one that ignores its wealth, dynamism, and potential.

Traoré, a former military captain who ascended to power amidst political instability, is now emerging as a Pan-African figure with a sharp critique of the status quo.

His accusations against foreign media resonate with a long-standing frustration: that Africa, despite being the bedrock of global resource wealth, is seen only when it bleeds, not when it thrives.

“We are rich in gold, diamonds, cobalt, and fertile land, yet we are portrayed as beggars,” Traoré declared in a recent public address. “The phones you use, the satellites in space, the electric cars on your streets—they all run on minerals dug from African soil. But what do we have to show for it?”

He is not wrong. The Democratic Republic of Congo is home to over 60% of the world’s cobalt reserves, a critical component in lithium-ion batteries that power modern electronics and electric vehicles.

Yet, paradoxically, Congolese citizens often find such technology prohibitively expensive, and basic infrastructure remains lacking. Traoré’s point is blunt but piercing: how can a continent so rich be so poor?

It’s not just Congo. Africa’s natural wealth is staggering. Ethiopia has undertaken one of the most ambitious reforestation projects in human history.

Kenya is experiencing a surge in its entrepreneurial ecosystem, earning it the title of “Silicon Savannah.” Rwanda is a case study in post-conflict transformation, and Ghana is redefining economic self-reliance.

But these success stories are too often buried beneath headlines of famine, coups, and conflict.

Traoré says it’s time for “African reconnaissance”—a spiritual, economic, and political reawakening.

He calls for the end of exploitative neocolonial ties and insists that Africa must begin to use its resources for the benefit of its people. “No more extraction without transformation. No more gifts that are chains,” he proclaimed.

The message is resonating. From Dakar to Dar es Salaam, from Accra to Addis Ababa, his words are striking a nerve, especially among the youth. In a continent where over 60 percent of the population is under 25, Traoré’s vision carries the vigor of a generational shift. Even outside Africa, his anti-neocolonial rhetoric is finding sympathetic ears.

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin recently welcomed him with a red-carpet reception and a military helicopter salute—a symbolic embrace that underscores the shifting global alliances around Africa’s future.

But history urges caution. We’ve seen this vision before fade unceremoniously.

Muammar Gaddafi, Libya’s former strongman, once championed the idea of a “United States of Africa.” He funded cultural and agricultural programs, including the donation of vans to Kenyan cultural councils and a proposed deployment of overn1,000 tractors to support African farmers. He aimed to reduce dependency on Western aid by empowering traditional institutions and revitalizing agrarian economies. Yet, Gaddafi’s ambitions, though grand, ended violently—and controversially—leaving behind a vacuum and a legacy marred by repression.

Traoré’s challenge, then, is not just to echo Gaddafi’s dreams but to avoid his missteps. Sovereignty without accountability can quickly slip into autocracy. Pan-Africanism without inclusivity risks becoming another tool for elite entrenchment.

Still, the moment feels different. Today’s African populations are more connected, more informed, and more determined than ever before.

Digital tools are empowering grassroots movements, and citizens are demanding transparency and reform from within. If Traoré can harness this energy while resisting the temptations of demagoguery, he might just succeed where others failed.

In the final analysis, Traoré is daring to ask a question that many African leaders have long whispered but rarely shouted: Why must Africa be rich underground and poor above?

It’s a question worth asking—and one worth answering.

Only time will tell if he will endure the storms of global pressure, internal dissent, and historical repetition. But one thing is certain: a new chapter in Africa’s long story is being written. And Ibrahim Traoré, bold and unflinching, has positioned himself as one of its authors.

Traoré forward ever, backward never.

Africa is watching. The world is listening. And perhaps, this time, the story will be different.

The writer is a media consultant and regular commentator on governance, democracy and development.

Kepherpeace@gmail.com

Homa Bay Treasury raises red flag over suspected misappropriation of Sh 325M by Health department

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Wanga

By Team

Is Homa Bay County Government living the old habits of the immediate former regime where corruption, poor service delivery and public relations were the hallmark of the trade?

From the mismanagement of the donor funds, a red flag over suspected misappropriation of public funds by the Department of Health has been raised by the Head of Treasury who wanted disciplinary action meted out on the Chief Officer in charge of the department.

In a letter dated June 26th, 2024, by County Executive Committee Member in charge of Finance, Mr. Solomon Obiero, to the County Secretary captioned “Suspected Misappropriation of Public Funds”,

Obiero wrote: “Reference is made to a letter by the County Chief of Public Health and Medical Services, Ref No. MOH/HB/CTY/COH/GEM/VOL.c9/FIN/6/23/Vol..2 (iB) dated June 12, 2024.

I raised concern over the expenditure of NHIF and Linda Mama reimbursements amounting to Sh 325,531,365 at source by his approval without the funds being swiped to the FIF-SPA.

In this regard, it is my belief as the Head of the County Treasury that the accounting officer has, pursuant to Section 156 (2) (b) of the PFM County Government Regulations, 2015, and the Homa Bay County FIF Act, 2023, issued AIEs against our financial management procedures.

Therefore, the purpose of this letter is to refer the matter to you as the Head of Public Service for appropriate action in terms of statutory and other conditions of employment applicable for his improper conduct.”

But the Chief Officer, Dr. Kevin Osuri, confirmed receiving the letter from the Head of Treasury, saying it was in line with keeping the FIF Act and PFM.

“The 2024 letter was in keeping with the FIF Act and PFM. Completely in order. It wasn’t an issue after we demonstrated all facilities adhered to the Act,” he responded.

Tough questions have emerged over whether the law was broken, who interceded to calm the storm to stop disciplinary action, and whether the funds were misappropriated.

County Secretary Prof. Benard Muok did not respond to our calls and text messages over the matter.

Recently, when Governor Gladys Wanga was in Ndhiwa Sub-County, she told the public that the hospitals were fully equipped with drugs. The crowd roared back saying there were no drugs and they could have been brought when she visited the area.

Last year, in Rachuonyo North Sub-County, Wagwe Hospital residents rioted during Wanga’s visit, citing lack of medicine and health personnel.

Yesterday, Western Insight revealed concerns over Sh 500M, part of the Sh 1.4 billion for infrastructural developments by development partners for the Kenya Informal Settlements Improvement Project (KISIP 2) in Homa Bay County.

The first disbursement was part of the Sh 1.4 billion meant for infrastructural development but no work has commenced even after the release of the funds.

Equally, questions have emerged over the award of the tender with allegations that the first two candidates were not considered for the award, with the County Government preferring to award the bidder who came third.

The irony is that the National Government infrastructural projects that were earmarked for the Madaraka Day celebrations have been completed in record time, while the donor-funded project that is being implemented by the County Government is yet to take off, with the project term nearing the end.

And now the residents have expressed fear that the projects may stall following the failure of the contractor to commence work at the various sites in the County.

The Principal Secretary, State Department of Housing and Urban Development, has responded to the request for information and concerns raised by Homa Bay-based civic organization over the Sh 1.4 billion Kenya Informal Settlements Improvement Project (KISIP 2).

He said the infrastructure upgrade implementation has not commenced.

The project, which is a five-year program, became effective in March 2021 and is expected to close in July 2025 for International Development Agency (IDA) financing and December 2028 for Agence Française de Développement (AFD) financing.

Interface Community Desk had written to the PS Charles Hinga seeking to know the total length of roads being upgraded or constructed under KISIP 2, detailed dimensions and specifications for the roads, including carriageways, footpaths and drainage system.

Design plans and layout for the infrastructure improvement, progress reports, tenders or contracts, and detailed bills of quantities for the roads.

President Ruto fulfils his promise over Raila Odinga stadium ahead of Madaraka Day celebration

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By Habil Onyango

President William Ruto fulfilled his pledge to the residents of Homa Bay County by upgrading and expanding Raila Odinga Stadium.

On Monday, President Ruto made the pledge a reality after the Ministry of Sports officially handed over the Raila Odinga Stadium to Sports Kenya and the Madaraka Day celebration committee in preparation for the national celebration scheduled for June 1st.

The stadium has undergone significant upgrades, expanding from a 2,000 to a 12,000-seat capacity and now includes essential facilities.

In December of last year, President William Ruto directed the Ministry to allocate Sh. 500 million for the refurbishment of the stadium, with funds sourced from the national sports fund.

According to Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, the renovations were already 99 percent complete.

“I am pleased that we are gathered here today to hand over the facility to the Madaraka Day celebration committee, led by the Internal Security Principal Secretary, Dr. Raymond Omollo, and Sports Kenya,” Mvurya stated during the handover ceremony.

“In December, President William Ruto instructed the Ministry to upgrade the stadium in preparation for the Madaraka Day celebration,” he added. “The refurbishment is almost complete, and we expect the remaining work will be finished before Sunday.”

Mvurya emphasized that the improvements made to the facility are not solely for the upcoming celebrations but will also accommodate other sporting activities once the event is over.

“This ceremony allows the committee to use the facility for Madaraka Day celebrations; however, we are committed to preparing the stadium for future sporting events, which will resume after this weekend,” he explained.

Mvurya was accompanied by Petroleum and Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi, Dr. Omollo, and was hosted by Governor Gladys Wanga.

Among those in attendance were Homa Bay Deputy Governor Oyugi Mgawanga and Members of Parliament Opondo Kaluma (Homa Bay Town), Lilian Gogo (Rangwe), Adipo Okwome (Karachuonyo), Carolly Omondi (Suba South), and Bensuda Osogo (County Woman Representative).

Governor Wanga expressed gratitude to President William Ruto for his support and for selecting Homa Bay to host this year’s Madaraka Day celebration.

Wanga stated that the upgrades have transformed ROSH into more than just a venue for celebrations; it is now a central hub for sports development.

“I want to thank President William Ruto for his guidance in improving our stadium’s standards and for choosing Homa Bay, the County of Endless Potential, to host this year’s celebrations,” she said.

“The transformation that has taken place feels miraculous,” Wanga added.

“This facility will not only be used for the Madaraka Day celebrations; it will also support various sporting activities moving forward, starting with Sunday’s Premier League match between Gor Mahia and their arch-rivals AFC Leopards,” she continued.

“ROSH will serve not only as a venue for national celebrations but will also provide platforms for talent development, grassroots competitions, and community recreation,” she emphasized.

LBDA launches construction of dykes in Nyando to control perennial floods

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By Anderson Ojwang

The recent long rains in the country have witnessed several families affected, displaced and more importantly, Nyando Sub-county has continued to suffer from the age-long perennial floods.

The most affected areas in Nyando Sub-county include Ayweyo, Kabonyo Kanyagwal among other areas.

But in a move aimed at reducing the impact of flooding in the region, Lake Basin Development Authority (LBDA) has embarked on aggressive construction of dykes in the area.

LBDA Managing Director Mr. Wycliff Ochiaga was recently joined by area MP Jared Okello to commission a 4 km dyke in the area.

Ochiaga said the construction of dykes in the area was a game changer and would help contain the floods and give reprieve to the residents.

“The construction of dykes is a game changer not only in mitigating floods but will also contribute to reducing post-harvest losses, increasing acreage under rice plantation and helping reduce the country’s dependency on imported rice,” he said.

He said the construction of dykes was a bold move in line with the government’s Bottom-Up Approach Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) aimed at enhancing food security, boosting local livelihoods, and building climate resilience in the region.

The Lake Basin Development Authority (LBDA) has launched the construction of a 50-kilometre dyke along River Nyando.

River Nyando is one of the rivers in the Nyando River Basin prone to flooding every year, causing enormous loss of lives and property in the lower Kano Plains. The Authority is currently undertaking rehabilitation works on dykes earlier developed to contain floods in the Nyando area.

In the Kano Plains, about 60 percent of the households are temporarily denied access to cultivable lands when it is flooded.

The poor drainage of the flood plains makes large portions of the farmlands inaccessible, while some portions of the arable land are under prolonged inundation that reduces the number of better areas under cropping.

When floods occur, subsistence households living along the riverbanks are displaced by the high water levels, and then have to seek refuge on raised grounds or in neighbouring trading centres.

Most of these households have to live in temporary shelters until flooding recedes and they can return to their former homesteads and farmlands.

A local Member of County Assembly Maurice Ngeta recently said several families were suffering and appealed for support.

“We demand action by the county and national governments to give us a permanent solution to flooding in Nyando. We do not want to witness our people undergo prolonged suffering,” he said.

Recently, Kenya Red Cross Society warned of more rains in the region as families got displaced in both Kisumu and Homa Bay Counties.

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