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Goals and Gains: The Political and Economic Stakes of Kenya’s Football Revival

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By Clifford Derrick – South Africa

President William Ruto’s relationship with football began like many of his political promises: met with doubt. When he announced plans to construct a modern, multipurpose stadium capable of hosting international competitions, many dismissed it as political theatre. Today, that stadium stands complete, meeting standards comparable to some of the best in Europe or the Gulf. In a country where football has long been neglected, this represents a rare and meaningful reversal.

The change is most visible at the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani, the main venue for the African Nations Championship. Renovations include a larger roof, modern floodlighting, upgraded seating, improved athlete facilities, and enhancements to the indoor arena, aquatic complex, and stadium hotel. Nyayo National Stadium has also been refurbished to international standards with improved lighting, security, media infrastructure, and player amenities. Work on Talanta Sports Stadium and Kipchoge Keino Stadium supports Kenya’s preparations for hosting CHAN 2025 and AFCON 2027.

These infrastructure projects have gone beyond bricks and mortar. They have created employment for thousands of young Kenyans, particularly from the Gen-Z generation. From construction and logistics to catering and digital content production, the upgrades have injected income into households and built skills that will underpin future economic growth. Some benefits are immediate; others will manifest over time as these young people advance in their careers. None of this would be possible in a state of political unrest.

On the pitch, the Harambee Stars have capped their resurgence with one of the most significant results in their history. In their latest match at the African Nations Championship, Kenya defeated a powerful Moroccan side 1–0 despite playing much of the game with ten men after an early red card. Morocco, the first African nation to reach a FIFA World Cup semi-final and two-time CHAN champions, had never before lost to Kenya. This victory is a landmark moment.

It followed a spirited 1–1 draw with Angola, again achieved with ten players against eleven, and an opening 1–0 win over the Democratic Republic of Congo. Together, these performances have underlined the team’s resilience and composure under pressure, qualities strengthened by improved facilities, financial incentives, and the stability of the political environment.

Ruto’s decision to reward the Harambee Stars with one million shillings for every win and half a million for a draw has transformed the financial realities of the players. In just three matches, each player has earned 2.5 million shillings, an amount that might otherwise take five years to earn in the local league. Players who once faced the temptation of match-fixing no longer have reason to compromise their integrity.

Yet sudden wealth can be as dangerous as poverty if it is not managed well. Without financial literacy, sound investment and professional guidance, it can disappear quickly, as has happened to many athletes around the world. For this new chapter in Kenyan football to endure, players will need access to financial planning programmes, mentorship from retired professionals, and pathways to invest in projects that benefit both themselves and their communities. Such systems are standard in European football and would be valuable if applied in Kenya.

This moment has been made possible by a political alignment few could have predicted. Raila Odinga, a statesman with deep roots in the Luo community but whose influence extends far beyond it, chose to work with Ruto to stabilise the country after a period of tension. The results have been felt in everyday life. Abductions, forced disappearances and extra-judicial killings that once haunted political life have stopped. Kenyans now go to stadiums to watch football without fear. The atmosphere of peace has allowed sport to flourish and given the country space to invest in long-term projects.

The cooperation has also produced a broader justice agenda. Ruto and Raila have formed a task force to oversee the compensation of victims of political violence and police brutality from 2017. For families long denied recognition or restitution, this is a step towards closure. Raila has faced criticism for pursuing this path, yet his reasoning is strategic. At the funeral of Dr Phoebe Asiyo, he used a Luo proverb: the protest of a frog does not prevent a cow from drinking at the river. It was a reminder that the noise of detractors will not stop a leader from doing what is right.

Football has long been central to the culture of Western Kenya, especially among the Luo and Luhya communities, both of which have often been excluded from the political and economic mainstream. Ruto, a Kalenjin, has used football investment to connect with communities beyond his traditional base. This is a form of politics that produces tangible results and appeals to the younger generation. Many Gen-Z Kenyans, often sceptical of political rhetoric, are watching their peers and local heroes become millionaires on the pitch, proving that national service and personal ambition can align.

The appointment of South African legend Benni McCarthy amplified this sense of renewal beyond Kenya’s borders. McCarthy, a Champions League winner and former Manchester United forwards coach, has drawn South African interest not only because of his stature but because Kenya’s story echoes South Africa’s own legacy of using sport for unity. His recent victories with Kenya will resonate strongly back home, not least because they came against Morocco, a continental powerhouse.

This evokes Nelson Mandela’s legacy, where sport was used to heal and reimagine national identity. Raila now plays a comparable role in Kenya—steering reconciliation and rebuilding through symbolic and substantive measures.

For a country often defined internationally by its runners or its political divisions, this is a new narrative. It is about infrastructure that can host global events, incentives that make professionalism possible, and a political alliance centred on national interests. Frantz Fanon argued that national culture is created not by looking backwards but by forging new realities anchored in self-agency. Kenya’s football revival is one such reality unfolding in real time.

Placing money, infrastructure, and political capital into football, Ruto has taken a step that could redefine his legacy. If these structures are made strong enough, they could transform Kenya’s standing in African sport. And if the partnership with Raila continues to deliver stability, justice, and inclusion, it may do more than win matches. It could reshape the country’s understanding of leadership itself.

Kenya’s football revival is part of a wider national renewal, where stadiums host more than matches, young people build their future, and leadership is measured in lasting change.

Perennial Commissioners, Time is Up!

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By Billy Mijungu

In Kenya’s governance architecture, independent commissions were designed as safeguards for democracy, accountability, and service delivery.

The law is clear: a commissioner’s tenure in any such body is capped at six years. Six years, and not a day more, was the intended service period before the mantle passes to another Kenyan. This provision was crafted to prevent stagnation, entrenchment, and the monopolization of public office by a small, recycled elite.

Yet, a troubling pattern has emerged. Some commissioners, upon completing their six year term, simply transition to another commission. Others have clocked an astonishing three or even four tenures across different commissions, some even rising repeatedly to chairmanship positions.

In a country with over 50 million people, this recycling of a handful of familiar faces into plum constitutional offices is both baffling and unjustifiable.

The question is simple: why?
Is Kenya so short on talent that the same handful of individuals must hop from one commission to another as if it were musical chairs? The Constitution envisioned commissions as places where fresh perspectives and diverse expertise would continually renew the system.

It did not intend for them to become closed clubs for the well connected. The practice undermines not only the letter of the law but also its spirit, eroding public trust in these institutions.
Consider the public resources at play.

Commissioners exit their six year tenure with handsome gratuities, pensions, and other benefits, all paid by taxpayers. These payouts were designed to facilitate a dignified exit, not to serve as a pit stop before walking into another equally well paying public role.

When one person benefits from multiple commissions over decades, it transforms public service into a career of perpetual privilege, funded at the expense of millions who will never get the chance to serve.
Moreover, this revolving door breeds complacency and political capture.

A commissioner who knows they can angle for a posting in another body is less likely to challenge political masters or vested interests. They may tread lightly, avoid controversy, and preserve relationships that will ease their next appointment. Such dynamics threaten the very independence these commissions are meant to protect.

It is time for Parliament to step in and close this loophole once and for all. The solution is straightforward: if you serve as a commissioner, whether for one term or the full six years, you should never again be eligible to serve in any other commission for the rest of your life.

This is not punitive; it is principled. It enforces the ideal of rotation, creates room for new voices, and ensures that public offices circulate among the broad pool of Kenyan talent.

Kenya’s universities produce thousands of capable graduates every year. Our private sector teems with competent, ethical leaders. Our civil society is rich with passionate advocates for justice and accountability. To suggest that only a small cadre of familiar faces can be trusted with commission roles is an insult to the nation’s collective capacity.

Perpetual commissioners are a symptom of a deeper governance malaise: the inability or unwillingness to let go of power. Breaking this cycle will require political courage, but the dividends will be immense: revitalized commissions, renewed public confidence, and a governance system that reflects Kenya’s diversity and depth of talent.

The era of perennial commissioners must end. Parliament must legislate a one and done rule, and Kenyans must demand it. Six years is more than enough time to make a difference in one commission. After that, step aside and let another Kenyan take the wheel.

Opposition in slumber as President Ruto digs in with re-election package

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By Anderson  Ojwang

The Kenya’s opposition could be enjoying a sweet slumber as President William Ruto digs in with his re-election agenda for the 2027 presidential contest.

Ruto has rolled out  an elaborate re-election packages targeting various  vote blocks and constituencies while the opposition is yet to get its vehicle roaring.

The united opposition that comprises of Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Nark-Kenya leader Martha Karua, DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, impeached deputy president Rigathi Gachagua and former cabinet minister Fred Matiangi are yet to present significant campaign agenda to the electorates apart from the wantam mantra.

If anything, the opposition is giving Ruto a field day with only  24 months to the elections and the president is reaping heavily from the indecisiveness , confusion and lack of focus and agenda to entrench himself in the electorates.

Ruto has often  taunted the opposition to be lacking agenda to present to the electorates and that they  may find it hard to defeat him at the ballot.

    The broad based government and its impact

The departure of the opposition cog, ODM leader Raila Odinga to form a broad based government deflated and removed the momentum from the opposition despite the wave of Genz that had threatened to cut short president Ruto tenure.

In Ruto’s dream campaign trolley is the broad based government where he has been able to bring on board Raila and through this has steadied his once sinking boat sail deep into the water and dock without any serious storm.

Raila recently said  “We sacrificed so that there could be peace in this country. And that is the reason we are here today. I don’t regret what we did. We did it in the best interest of our country and Kenya must move forward.

We have sat together and reviewed the memorandum of understanding  (MOU) we signed this year and now we have put together a framework to ensure the MOU is implemented to the letter.

I want to say to the naysayers give us space and room. Judge us in 2027. And we have said this is going to remain in place up to 2027 and after that we see where we go to.”

Ruto said through the broad based government they have been able to bring together all communities, regions  in an inclusive manner into  one administration that does not look and seek to preserve any leader but to preserve the stability of Kenya, ‘because of the coming together , under broad based government , because  of Raila Odinga working with me to put together this  broad based government, Kenya has a date with destiny.

The opposition Wantam mantra

The opposition has been riding on the mantra and hype of wantam that has become popular in most of country’s social and political gatherings in hope to win the next presidential election.

Gachagua recently said  “We are part of this team and will walk this journey together to liberate this country. We will make whatever sacrifices necessary to make sure William Ruto is a one-term president.

“The government he leads is a one-man show; he wants his way and all those ministers you see there are flower girls. I was the only one who could stand up to him and say, hey boss, this can’t work. It is a praise-and-worship choir and I could not fit in it.”

But Ruto has said he will not be deterred by “incompetent, clueless and corrupt” people attempting to divide Kenyans along ethnic lines.

Raila also joined the fray saying “ You are saying wantam (one term). So what? It is the Kenyans who will decide the terms and we will see where we want to go. I am confident when that time comes  we will face Kenyans squarely and tell Kenyans  why we did what we had to do and where we want to go”.

The affirmative action plan

President Ruto has devised a strategy that target Raila’s strong holds in the country that were previously ignored through in terms of development through affirmative action.

For instance, last week while in Nyanza, he announced that for Nyanza to be at par with other regions that have benefitted from the government support, he declared an affirmative action for the region on development and economic growth.

While in Homa Bay today, leaders here have asked that we focus on the development  of the nation and we focus on the development of this county.

Let me commit that we have provided in this year’s budget enhanced  resources for the development of thus county. I am aware that this county and this region  requires affirmative action.

Because for a very long time  this  region has not benefited from the resources  and development of our country as other regions have.

Previously while in tour of the coast region he had also declared affirmative action for the region.

Establishment of a framework to compensate victims of demos

President Ruto last week  announced  the formation of a new government framework to compensate civilians and security personnel who suffered injuries or lost their lives during demonstrations and public protests in Kenya since 2017.

In a presidential proclamation issued on Friday, Ruto said the initiative aims to balance constitutional freedoms with civic responsibility, while addressing the human and economic costs of political unrest.

Raila in response welcomed the formation of the framework saying “We have sat together and reviewed the memorandum of understanding  (MOU) we signed this year and now we have put together a framework to ensure the MOU is implemented to the letter.

This is going to happen, those who have been maimed, injured and died will be compensated from 2017 to date.”

This is another fertile platform by Ruto and Raila that is likely to endear them to the electorates.

Formation of Youth empowerment program to contain Genz surge

Stung by the power, creativity, resolve and commitment by the Genz, Ruto went back to the drawing board on how best to onboard the new determiners in the country’s politics. The new voice of the opposition and reasoning in the country.

The strategy was the formation of youth empowerment to address  exploding unemployment  in the country.

That is why thousands of enthusiastic young men and women from Nairobi County braved the early morning chilly weather to attend an empowerment program hosted by President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi, on Saturday. 

Drawn from 1,115 groups from Nairobi County’s 17 constituencies, they received various types of equipment from the President to start or boost their income-generating activities. 

Each group received equipment according to the request they had made. For example, 380 groups benefitted from 380 tents and 38,000 chairs, with each getting a tent and 100 chairs.

The football mantra

President using the ongoing CHAN tournament to reach out to the hearts of the football fanatics by rehabilitating the two international stadiums, Kasarani and Nyayo.

The support to the national team, Harambee stars and the price awards by the president is resonating well with the players and the supporters. His presence in the stadium, to stand with the national team, that is making history is a plus to Ruto in his re-election strategy.

The opposition have also come out to support the national team verbally with no significant material contribution to the players.

Opposition slumber and reliance on Gachagua

The opposition is yet to wake up and may be caught napping as time is running out to roll out their campaign agenda.

The absence of Gachagua, who ha been in the tour of USA for the last one month has created a lull and no activities in the opposition.

The rallies have come to a screeching halt, Kalonzo and Matangi have been missing from the action. This has left room to Ruto to roam and galvanize his vote block. The precedent setting is making to the opposition to be a one man guitar agenda, without Gachagua, the opposition seems dead.

The question will the opposition seize the opportunity to make Ruto wantam president or will Ruto have the final last over his impeached deputy?

President Ruto declares affirmative action to stir development in Nyanza after decades of marginalization

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Raila

After five decades of economic marginalization of Nyanza by subsequent regimes that resulted in the collapse of the region’s economy and dilapidated infrastructure, a new lease of life has been birthed.

President William Ruto, on Friday at the burial of Mama Phoebe Asiyo in Karachuonyo, acknowledged that Nyanza for decades has been marginalised in terms of development and economic growth.

President Ruto announced that, for Nyanza to be at par with other regions that have benefited from government support, he declared affirmative action for the region in development and economic growth.

“While in Homa Bay today, leaders here have asked that we focus on the development of the nation and we focus on the development of this county.
Let me commit that we have provided in this year’s budget enhanced resources for the development of this county. I am aware that this county and this region requires affirmative action.
Because for a very long time this region has not benefited from the resources and development of our country as other regions have.

It is the reason why we have enhanced the budget— for example, for roads, from about Sh 500 million last year to Sh 3.2 billion this year, and another Sh 2 billion will be allocated in the short term so that we can bring back all the contractors for all the roads that had stalled in Homa Bay County.
I want to commit to you that all the contractors are back, and those who are not back will be back.
We now have the resources to complete the roads that we made our commitment about in this region. Not only those that are ongoing but we have also committed to build five new roads in Homa Bay County as part of the process of affirmative action.

As part of making sure that we build the necessary infrastructure to underpin and form a foundation for the development of this county and our country, Kenya.
The contractor is already on site for the road from Namba to Karabok and Adiedo, and also the ring road from Kanyadhiang‑Pala to Kadel—the contractor is also on site and work has resumed.
Road construction projects in the Nyanza region were delayed, and I know several families in this county and region have not been connected to electricity. We have provided Sh 2 billion for electricity connectivity to 20,000 households. This is being rolled out from August to December in Homa Bay as part of bringing every part of the country together so that we can move together as a nation.” he said.

After the fallout between the late President Mzee Jomo Kenyatta and his deputy, the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, the Luo community walked into a political desert; the community remained a pariah to subsequent regimes.

Despite several attempts to reintegrate into government, the community has often been viewed with suspicion, scepticism and frequently vanquished and tagged as opposition.

From independence heroes and heroines, the community became a socio‑economic and political villain, and became marginalised.

After the fallout, the community suffered a cocktail of socio‑economic and political tribulations and misfortunes.

Such misfortunes include the deaths and assassinations of leading figures—namely Tom Joseph Mboya, Argwings Kodhek, Odhiambo Mbai, Dr Robert Ouko, among others.

The economic tribulations included the collapse of the cotton industry, which subsequently saw the death of Kisumu Cotton Mills (KICOMI), the struggle of the sugar industry, and the negative business environment towards the community.

Jaramogi, before his death, tried to bring the community back into government by offering an olive branch to the then late President Daniel Moi.

Back in 1993, Jaramogi had decided to end hostilities between himself and Moi in order to foster national cohesion and development. His first gesture of goodwill was to attend the Madaraka Day celebrations presided over by Moi, having boycotted all other previous national festivals.

Jaramogi extended his olive branch even further by inviting Moi to his home in Bondo, where he was given a warm welcome, despite some of Jaramogi’s followers claiming that he had sold them out.

Jaramogi believed that the role of the opposition was not simply to engage in endless confrontation with the government but rather to work with the State to implement sound policies when the time was right.

In Jaramogi’s footsteps, his son Raila Amolo Odinga engaged Moi and dissolved his party, the National Development Party (NDP), to become Kanu Secretary General.

“Moi and I reconciled after the political differences of the 1980s and early 90s, and we were able to work together to bring more reforms to the country,” he said.

“Our cooperation gave way to a merger with his party Kanu, which put the country firmly on the path to a new constitution by enabling the formation of the Constitution of Kenya Review Commission (CKRC),” Raila said, recalling his NDP’s merger with Kanu.

But Raila would later lead a walkout from Kanu after President Moi chose Uhuru Kenyatta as his preferred successor. The rebel faction, identified as the Rainbow Alliance, later joined NAK of Mwai Kibaki, Kijana Wamalwa and Charity Ngilu to form Narc, the opposition coalition that ended the independent party’s reign.

During Kibaki’s presidency, Raila said he declared “Kibaki Tosha” at a critical time when the country was yearning for regime change, but the negotiations among the opposition leaders were taking too long.

“I decided to take the debate to Wananchi and asked them, ‘Si Kibaki Tosha?’ and they started singing ‘Yote Yawezekana bila Moi.’”

But Raila did not last long in Kibaki’s government as he walked out once again, taking the community back to the opposition after the Memorandum of Understanding was not honoured. He blamed some opportunists around Kibaki for ensuring the MoU was not implemented. Again, the community returned to the cold.

In the 2013 presidential election, Raila lost to President Uhuru Kenyatta, and the community remained in the shadows of government, having supported Raila’s candidature mainly.

Similarly, Raila lost to Uhuru again in the contentious election that was nullified by the Supreme Court but boycotted the repeat election.

But as fate would have it, Raila entered into a political handshake with President Uhuru—in the arrangement, the Luo were never appointed to the cabinet, but pockets of development projects were initiated in Nyanza.

With President Uhuru in his final term, it was anticipated that the handshake would finally handover the presidency to Raila and the Luo community; once again, Raila lost to Ruto.

After the 2022 election loss, Raila once again entered into a broad‑based political alliance with Ruto, which has seen the community secure plum cabinet slots in the government.

Africa’s Climate Conundrum: Navigating the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism

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C6E6JC Rambouillet Forest

By Clifford Derrick – Cape Town, South Africa

The European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) has sparked intense debate globally, particularly in Africa. As the continent grapples with the implications of this policy, it seems necessary to consider the potential impacts on African trade, sustainable construction, and climate policies.

The CBAM could have far-reaching consequences for African economies, particularly those heavily reliant on exports to the EU. For instance, South Africa’s steel industry, which is a significant contributor to the country’s GDP, might face increased costs due to the CBAM, making it less competitive in the EU market. This could lead to a decline in exports, economic growth, and job losses, exacerbating existing development challenges.

However, innovative solutions like biochar could revolutionise sustainable construction in Africa. Biochar can improve the durability of roads, reduce maintenance costs, and mitigate climate change. Adopting such sustainable construction practices can enable Africa to reduce its environmental impact while supporting local economies and communities. For example, using biochar in road construction could create new economic opportunities for local communities and reduce the carbon footprint of infrastructure development.

It’s crucial to prioritise African perspectives on climate policies, recognising the continent’s unique circumstances. According to Dr Cecilia Wandiga, of the Centre for Science and Technology Innovations (CSTI), “African countries must define their own taxonomies and develop contextualised climate policies that balance development needs with climate goals.” This includes considering the diverse economies, societies, and environments across the continent and ensuring that climate policies are inclusive and equitable.

Partnerships between governments, private sector, civil society, and international organisations are essential for achieving sustainable development in Africa. Collaborations can drive innovation, mobilise resources, and promote inclusive growth, helping Africa achieve its development goals while protecting the environment.

Ultimately, “Africa’s climate future depends on our collective ability to work together, prioritise local perspectives, and drive innovation.” Thus, adopting sustainable practices, developing contextualised climate policies, and fostering collaborations can enable Africa “navigate the challenges of climate change while promoting inclusive growth and development.”

The CBAM debate highlights the need for African countries to develop their own climate policies and strategies. Working together and prioritising sustainable development can ensure a climate-resilient future that supports the well-being of its people and the planet.

Indiza Storms to Day One Lead at SunDev East Africa Swing Johnnie Walker Classic

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By PHILLIP ORWA

Kakamega Sports Club Pro Dismas Indiza surged to the top of the leaderboard after an impressive opening round at the SunDev East Africa Swing Johnnie Walker Classic.

Indiza carded a 3-under par 69 despite a shaky start. On the first nine, he dropped shots on the 3rd, 5th, and 9th holes, but managed to keep himself in contention with birdies on the 2nd and 6th.

On the second nine, Indiza was flawless apart from a double-bogey on the 11th, but stayed on fire with birdies on the 10th, 13th, 15th and 18th, and played level par on the rest of the holes, during the event held today at the Diamonds Leisure Golf Resort.

“I am happy with my performance today, I loved the course, I have been practising at this course the past two days, and I had a good feel of it ahead of the tournament.

The weather here is also better than at Nyali, and that contributed to my performance. I had a challenging first half, but when turning, I tried to play safe, which led to the birdies I hit.” said Indiza.

He added: “Tomorrow I want to try and maintain the momentum and make the cut. I missed the cut at Nyali, and that sort of motivated me coming into this leg, knowing I had to play better to make the cut.”

In second place is Rwanda’s Celestine Nsazuwera of Kigali Golf Resort, who returned a 1-under par score. He enjoyed a flawless front nine, making pars on the first three holes, then carding back-to-back birdies on the 4th and 5th before playing level-par on the rest. On the back nine, he bogeyed the 10th and played level par on the remaining holes to close with a total of 37.

Speaking after his round, Nsazuwera said, “The round today was great. I started well with pars, made birdies on the 4th and 5th, but had a bogey on 9 when I dropped my ball in the bush. I’m generally happy with my performance, but I feel I should have putted better. My approach tomorrow will be the same, which will be to aim to be on top, make the cut, and go for the win of the final round.”

Tied for third on level par were Samuel Njoroge of Kenya Railway Golf Club and Uganda’s Ronald Rugumayo.

Njoroge endured a challenging front nine with bogeys on the 2nd and 6th. On the turn, he picked up another bogey on the 10th, but closed strongly with birdies on the 16th, 17th, and 18th.

“Today’s round was good. I stayed focused throughout and was hitting some good balls. The first nine was a bit hard because I wasn’t putting well and dropped some bogeys, but I stayed patient and finished strong,” said Njoroge.

Rugumayo began brightly with a birdie on the par-5 second hole but dropped shots on the 6th and 9th to make the turn in 37. On the back nine, he bogeyed the 11th but recovered with birdies on the 16th and 18th, playing level par on the remaining holes.

A four-way tie for fifth on 2-over par included David Wakhu of Golf Park, Jastas Madoya of Great Rift Valley Golf Resort, Jacob Okello of Golf Park, and Robinson Owiti of VetLab Sports Club.

There was no winner for the hole-in-one prize on offer at the par-3 12th hole, which was sponsored by travel company Pure Travels. The prize, an all-expenses-paid trip for two to the Maasai Mara, remains up for grabs, and players will be aiming to claim it when the second round tees off tomorrow.

The SunDev East Africa Swing Johnnie Walker Classic is the fourth leg of the Sunshine Development Tour – East Africa Swing, a series designed to provide professional golfers and elite amateurs with regular, high-calibre tournaments aligned with Sunshine Tour standards.

The events offer Sunshine Development Tour points, Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) and World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) points, and opportunities to play in major regional and international tournaments, providing a clear pathway for players to rise through the global golf ranks.

President Ruto, DP Kindiki and former PM Raila to attend a three day Devolution Conference in Homa Bay.

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President ruto

By Habil Onyango

President William Ruto, DP Kithure Kindiki and the Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga will grace the Devolution Conference 2025 set to be held in Homa Bay starting August 12 up to 15th, 2025 hosted by Governor Gladys Wanga.

According to the program, the President will officially open the event on Wednesday 12, thereafter Raila will be the chief guest on the second day before Kindiki officially closes it on Friday the 15th.

The ninth Conference, which is expected to attract close to 40,000 delegates, will be held at Homa Bay School playgrounds.

According to Nyeri Governor Dr. Mutahi Kahiga, who spoke on behalf of the steering committee, this year the conference experience will be different but exceptional.

“We will have exciting side events, allowing the delegates to engage in a pyramid of discussions around the conference theme and sub theme,” noted Kahiga.

“I am delighted to inform all participants that side events are being hosted by a mix of stakeholders, Government Ministries and agencies, Civil Society Organizations, private sector, development partners and professional organizations,” he added.

He said that each day of the conference has been designated a thematic area to focus the discussions so that a refined joint communique can be generated at the end of the event.

According to the program, there will be pre-conference activities which will begin from 10 August up to 12 before the President officially opens the conference.

On August 10, there will be a pre-marathon concert at Ruma National Park and this will be followed by the Roan Antelope Half Marathon which will be held at the same park, cycling, skating and performances on August 11.

The delegates will then participate in football matches at Tom Mboya University, boat racing in Lake Victoria and Ajua at the County modern pier.

The President will then open on 13th August morning while in the afternoon, there will be side events on good governance focusing on public participation, citizen and community engagement, social accountability, citizen oversight, civic education, transparency and the rule of law.

Human rights and social justice which will focus on the mainstreaming of socio-economic, political, civil and cultural rights: and social justice principles of access to resources, inclusion, equality and diversity in subnational governance.

Raila is expected to close the day two session where he will address the participants.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki will officially close the event on Friday 15th August after the discussion on Financing equity and inclusion by the participants.

A number of keynote speakers who include Henriette Geiger, European Union Ambassador to Kenya, Hon. Judith Pareno, the PS for the State Department of Justice, Human Rights and Constitutional Affairs and Dr. Abraham Rugo who is the Executive Director Bajeti Hub will give a keynote speech during the event.

The theme for this year’s conference will be: For the people, for prosperity: Devolution as a catalyst for Equity, inclusion and social Justice with a Sub theme re-energizing County Governments to accelerate Development and close the Socio economic divide.

According to Wanga, for the period of the conference, delegates have an array of options to explore Homa Bay County.

She said that there are cultural villages at Tourists Hotel which show the County’s artefacts, folklore, legends and celebrated heroes and heroines, traditional foods among many others.

Wanga added that there are also Island hopping with a guided boat tour across various islands and also a tour visit to local tourism sites which include Ondago Bird Sanctuary, Tom Mboya Mausoleum, fishing expeditions.

She also urged the delegates to ensure they enjoy game drives at Ruma National Park which hosts the endangered roan antelope in the Country and also enjoy sunset at the County’s modern pier.

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission has formally announced that by elections for various seats will be held on Thursday 27 November.

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By Phillip Orwa
Speaking earlier today, Chief Executive Officer Marjan Hussein Marjan confirmed that the official polling dates will be announcing in a Gazette Notice the date for the by elections and even hinted that November 27th is the likely date.

A few hours after the press announcement, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) publicized a gazette notice detailing the affected seats, in accordance with the Elections Act and the Constitution of Kenya.

According to the Gazette Notice by IEBC, the by-elections will be conducted in two phases to capture all vacancies reported from both the county assemblies and Parliament.

The first phase lists sixteen ward seats that fell vacant in different parts of the country that include Samburu County: Angata Nanyokie Ward, Nandi County: Chemundu, Kapng’etuny Ward Tana River County: Chewani Ward, Garissa County: Fafi Ward, Nairobi City County: Kariobangi North Ward, Kakamega County: Kisa East Ward, Elgeyo Marakwet County: Metkei Ward, Machakos County: Mumbuni North Ward, Narok County: Narok Town Ward, Kajiado County: Purko Ward, Uasin Gishu County: Tembelio Ward, Nyamira County: Nyansiongo, Nyamaiya and Ekerenyo Wards
Turkana County: Lake Zone and Nanaam Wards

These vacancies arose due to a combination of factors, including resignations, nullification of results by the courts, and deaths of elected leaders.

The second gazette notice captured additional electoral areas, including:
Member of Senate – Baringo County (1 seat), Members of the National Assembly – Banissa Constituency in Mandera County, Kasipul Constituency (Homa Bay), Magarini Constituency (Kilifi), Malava Constituency (Kakamega), Mbeere North Constituency (Embu), and Ugunja Constituency (Siaya), Member of County Assembly – Kabuchai, Chwele Ward in Bungoma County.

The Banissa Constituency seat in Mandera County felt vacant following the nullification of the 2022 election results by the Supreme Court earlier this year, while the Baringo Senate seat became vacant after the demise of the sitting senator.

The Kasipul Seat felt vacant after the former area MP was shot dead near City Mortuary, Nairobi Hospital and Mbagathi Hospital Round about, while the Ugunja seat felt vacant after Opiyo Wandayi was nominated a Cabinet Secretary in Charge of Energy, the Mbeere North seat felt vacant after Geoffrey Ruku was appointed CS for Public Service.

In its notice, the IEBC called upon all eligible voters in the affected areas to ensure that they are listed in the register of voters for their respective polling stations.

The commission also reminded political parties and independent candidates to adhere strictly to the electoral code of conduct during campaigns.

“All by-elections will be conducted in strict compliance with the law, ensuring transparency, fairness, and integrity in the electoral process,” said Marjan.

NOC-K Ushers in a New Era of Leadership with Official Handover from Dr. Paul Tergat to President Shadrack Maluki

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BY PHILLIP ORWA

Newly elected National Olympic Committee of Kenya President Shadrack Maluki took over from the outgoing President Dr. Paul Telgat, as Telgat handed instruments of Authority to the incoming President in a colorful handover event at the Olympic Kenya offices.

As part of the symbolic and operational transition, several critical institutional items were officially handed over, including the NOC-K Seal, Constitution, Olympic Charter, NOC-K and IOC flags, office keys, bank statements, cheque books, among others.

These items represent the legal, administrative and symbolic authority of NOC-K — from governance documents that anchor Olympic values, to fiscal and institutional tools that ensure operational continuity.

Mr. Maluki defined who he is as the Kenya Judo Federation President, by achieving a lot continentally and worldwide, further by bringing a Gold Medal, the first in the country, just but to mention.

In his final address as NOC-K President, Dr. Tergat, an IOC Member, reflected on the organization’s transformation during his eight-year tenure.

“These ladies and gentlemen distinguished themselves for exemplary dedication, passion, and teamwork… a selflessness trait.

This is the delivery secret for our transformation of NOC-K to a respectable and enviable institution.” Tergat said

He acknowledged key partners such as Nike, the IOC, ANOCA, and local sponsors including Safaricom and Kenya Breweries, for believing in the NOC-K vision and standing firmly with the #TeamKenya family.

Dr. Tergat paid special tribute to the athletes, describing them as “our biggest and most successful international brand.”

And extended his best wishes to the new leadership, stating, “I am persuaded that in them, we have a Team driven by a desire, a dream, and a vision to translate the aspirations of our athletes, Kenyan people, and the entire Olympic Movement to greater heights… I have tremendous confidence in your great leadership.”

The incoming President, Maluki, in his inaugural remarks, emphasized the Board’s readiness to build on the existing legacy.

“There is no reinventing the wheel but simply oiling and reinvigorating the parts and linkages that propel the momentum to greater success of the Movement and our athletes,” he said.

Recognizing the path carved by his predecessor, President Maluki added, “We stand on the foundation of a very reputable National Olympic Committee with great admiration across borders… I salute you, Mr. President and IOC Member, Paul.”

President Maluki reaffirmed that continuity and progress would remain the core tenets of his administration.

“We remain one family, one Movement, one NOC… and we are ready to deliver our expertise, experiences, and services to the sports community at whatever capacity and space we occupy.”

Under the leadership of President Maluki, the new Board affirmed its resolve to strengthen the institution’s governance framework, deepen engagement across the sports ecosystem, and uphold athletes as the core of every NOC-K priority moving forward.

Why Procurement at the County Must Be Unbundled to the Ward and Involve Public Representatives

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By Billy Mijungu

Enough is enough.

Procurement in our counties has been captured by a small, powerful elite sitting in offices far from the projects they claim to deliver.

They sign papers, award tenders, and move money in boardrooms, while the people who are meant to benefit from these projects are left in the dark.

This must end.

Procurement must be unbundled to the ward level and opened to the people.

Here is the truth: all development happens in a ward.

Even State House is in a ward.

Every road, every clinic, every water borehole, every school is rooted in a local community.

If the work is done in a ward, it should be procured in that ward.

Not in the County Treasury building.

Not in the Governor’s office.

Centralized procurement is the breeding ground of corruption.

It is where contracts are inflated beyond reason, where ghost projects are born, and where a handful of connected individuals eat while the rest of the community is left with half-finished structures and promises that never materialize.

This is why it is a fortress of secrecy.

Decisions are made away from public scrutiny, and once the money is gone, it is gone forever.

We must turn the tables.

Imagine a system where no contractor is paid until the people themselves confirm that the work is complete and meets the agreed standard.

Imagine residents, local leaders, and community representatives inspecting every project before the cheque is signed.

That is how you keep thieves out of public funds.

That is how you ensure value for every shilling.

This is not just about transparency.

It is about ownership.

When people know a project is theirs, they protect it, they push for its completion, and they hold those responsible to account.

When procurement is left in the hands of distant offices, the only people with a stake in it are the ones signing the contracts and cashing the cheques.

The Senate must act.

It must pass a law dismantling the central control of County spending entities and returning power to the people.

This law should make it mandatory for procurement to be handled where the project will be implemented.

It should give the public a binding role in approving payments.

Without this legal backbone, the cartels will not let go of their grip.

Opponents of this idea will claim decentralisation will slow things down.

That is a lie.

Centralization has not sped anything up.

What it has done is speed up theft.

It has created layers of bureaucracy that hide corruption and delay real progress.

Public procurement is the single largest pipeline of government money.

When it is controlled by a few, it becomes a feeding trough for the corrupt.

When it is watched over by the community, it becomes a tool for real change.

This is a fight for accountability.

A fight for fairness.

A fight to make sure that development is not a speech in the County Assembly but a road you can walk on, a clinic you can visit, a school where your children actually learn.

The fortress of secrecy must be brought down.

Procurement must return to the people.

Ward-level procurement, anchored in law and guarded by public representatives, is not a radical dream.

It is the only way to ensure that every coin meant for development does what it is meant to do transform lives.

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