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Fish for a Day or Food for a Lifetime? Rethinking Irrigation, Agriculture, and Data for Kenya’s Future

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By Edris Omondi.

The Author is a Strategic Thinker, an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya, a former Kisumu County Attorney, and a Civic Educator passionate about Youth Empowerment, National and International Development, and Generational justice.

edrisadvocates@gmail.com

Introduction: A Nation at a Crossroads

The timeless wisdom: “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach him to fish and you feed him for a lifetime“—still rings true, yet remains aspirational for Kenya’s agricultural sector. Despite being the backbone of our economy, agriculture in Kenya is largely stuck in a rain-fed, low-productivity cycle, leaving millions food insecure and farmers economically vulnerable.

What we need is more than food relief. We need sustainable agricultural transformation, led by irrigation, powered by data, and supported by regional trade infrastructure. Our goal must not be to survive one season at a time, but to feed ourselves and others—profitably and permanently.

A Call from the Past: Cuba’s Timeless Lesson

In 2005, during a visit to Chemelil Sugar Company, I accompanied His Excellency Ambassador Pedro Luis Pedroso Cuesta of Cuba. His counsel was sharp: “If Kenya is to transform its agriculture, it must invest in irrigated farming—not just depend on the sky.” That message, though nearly two decades old, remains urgent today and is deeply rooted in my memory.

Rain is unreliable. Climate change has made it worse. But with proper irrigation—whether large-scale or smallholder—Kenya can unlock continuous, predictable agricultural output, diversify its exports, and ensure food security.

Lake Region: Kenya’s Untapped Breadbasket

The Lake Region Economic Bloc (LREB) has the potential to become Kenya’s breadbasket. From the sugar plains of Nyando to the aquaculture hubs of Homabay and the fertile valleys of Vihiga, this region could be transformed into a year-round agribusiness powerhouse.

But without irrigation, the region’s full potential remains dormant. With it, the LREB can feed the nation and even export surplus produce. Irrigated high-value crops—fruits, vegetables, legumes, and grains—can power food factories, create jobs, and position the region as a key supplier to domestic and foreign markets.

Data Is the New Fertilizer: The Role of Firms Like Afridata Logistics

Modern agriculture is no longer just about rain, soil, and labour. It’s about data. To implement intelligent irrigation, maximize yields, forecast demand, and manage logistics, policymakers must now integrate data analytics and agri-intelligence platforms into their planning.

This is where companies like Afridata Logistics come in. Firms with robust data systems can provide:

  • Real-time market trends for crop planning and price optimization
  • Supply chain analytics for faster, cheaper transportation of goods
  • Geo-mapping for efficient irrigation zoning
  • Weather and soil data to inform planting and harvesting schedules

It is time policymakers stop treating agriculture as disconnected from technology. Smart agriculture policy must mandate collaboration with data companies like Afridata to inform every decision, from subsidies and insurance to extension services and logistics planning.

Kisumu International Airport: Cargo, Not Just Passengers

Kisumu International Airport can and should be repositioned as an agricultural cargo hub. With the imminent arrival of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) in Kisumu, passenger air travel will likely decline, as was the case in Mombasa. But this doesn’t signal doom. It signals opportunity.

With investment in cold storage, customs clearance, and air freight logistics, Kisumu can export fresh produce, fish, flowers, and nuts to regional and global markets. This turns agriculture into a forex earner and expands the region’s economic footprint far beyond subsistence.

From Policy to Practice: Closing the Implementation Gap

Kenya has a shelf full of agricultural strategies—from Vision 2030 to the Agricultural Sector Transformation and Growth Strategy. But these remain largely under-implemented. Budgets are slashed. Irrigation plans stall. Extension officers are few. And data is barely used.

To shift from day-to-day food relief to long-term food resilience, we must:

  • Invest aggressively in irrigation infrastructure
  • Create frameworks for data-driven agriculture
  • Forge public-private partnerships with data companies and logistics firms
  • Link agriculture to transport and export policy

Conclusion: Feeding Ourselves and Feeding the World

Kenya has the land. We have the labour. We even have the policy frameworks. What we need now is bold execution, data integration, and infrastructure development. Let’s irrigate, digitize, and export.

If we commit to this course, we will not only feed our people for a lifetime, but also feed the world. Let the Lake Region rise. Let Kisumu become a cargo giant. Let data become the new engine of farming. And let our policies move from promises to production.

Edited by Sandra Blessing

The Inappropriateness of Fuliza from Safaricom

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Billy Mijungu

By Billy Mijungu

In the name of convenience, Safaricom’s Fuliza has become a silent predator, a digital debt snare wrapped in the alluring fabric of financial flexibility. What began as a short term solution to enable seamless mobile transactions has morphed into a normalized dependency for millions of Kenyans, with ramifications far beyond the everyday lipanampesa moment.

At face value, Fuliza appears as a friendly overdraft facility. You want to complete a transaction but your M-PESA balance is short. No worries, Fuliza steps in, fronts you the cash, and you’re sorted. Repay it when you top up. Simple, right?

Not quite. Here is what Safaricom doesn’t tell you or tells you in the smallest of fine print that vanishes in the speed of a hakikisha confirmation. First, any money sent to a number with Fuliza debt becomes unrecoverable. Reversals are practically impossible regardless of circumstance. Safaricom offers no clarity, just a cold unapologetic “transaction cannot be reversed,” a form of institutionalized thuggery hiding behind corporate terms and conditions.

Then there’s the cost. Fuliza is, by all metrics, more expensive than most formal credit facilities in the country. The facility charges fees and daily interest, which, compounded annually, exceed the original borrowed amount multiple times. This is a blatant violation of basic financial ethics and arguably regulatory guidelines that state profits from credit must not exceed the principal. Yet, here we are, normalizing digital debt that silently bleeds users dry.
Even more concerning is the long term damage to your financial profile.

Fuliza debts are recorded. Each time you borrow, your credit behavior is flagged. Use it frequently and your credit score starts to deteriorate. Slowly, you are boxed into the category of small time borrower, a status that locks you out from accessing larger, growth oriented loans from banks and financial institutions. Fuliza doesn’t just give you debt, it cheapens your financial reputation.

And then there is the psychological entrapment. Once you are hooked to Fuliza, it becomes reflexive. Even when you receive money from a loan, a side hustle, or a friend, it first goes to clear the Fuliza balance. You start sending money with the knowledge that it will be swallowed whole by this invisible hole. It alters your financial discipline. You begin to delay repayment, let the fees stack, ignore the messages, and soon, it becomes just another part of life. But this isn’t life. This is debt dependence.

Fuliza was designed as a bridge but it’s become a cage. Its ubiquity has turned it from a lifeline into a leash. For a nation striving to build a generation of financially empowered citizens, Fuliza undermines that dream by keeping people in constant micro debt.

It is time to break free. Sign off Fuliza. It is not helping you grow, it is making you dependent. This is not financial inclusion, this is financial entrapment. And for many Kenyans, Fuliza has become a debt trap of monumental proportion with no end in sight.

The only way to win is to step out. Opt out. Reclaim your financial future.

Follow the unfolding narrative on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn @BillyMijungu

Forward #TusongeMbele

Edited by Sandra Blessing

Kakamega steps up for street children: 5km charity walk fuels “feed a child” mission

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kakamega steps up for street children: 5km charity walk fuels “feed a child” mission

By Remmy Butia

Kakameha, Kenya- The streets of Kakamega town echoed with footsteps of compassion on Saturday as the Street Children and Orphans Society of Kenya (SCOSK) successfully hosted its 5km “Feed a Child” Charity Walk. The event, aimed at tackling hunger and supporting vulnerable children, commenced and concluded at the symbolic grounds of the Kakamega Approved School.

Under the leadership of Project Coordinator Richard Nyangweso, who officially represented SCOSK, hundreds of participants gathered at the Kakamega Approved School early in the morning. The choice of venue underscored the organization’s mission, highlighting the critical need for intervention and support for children facing adversity.

Walking with Purpose:

Participants, adorned in branded T-shirts, embarked on the 5-kilometer route winding through the bustling streets of Kakamega town. The vibrant procession, filled with community members, local leaders, and volunteers, turned into a moving spectacle of solidarity. Banners promoting the “Feed a Child” initiative and messages of hope drew attention and cheers from onlookers.

Nyangweso’s Rallying Cry:

Addressing the crowd before and after the walk, Project Coordinator Richard Nyangweso emphasized the urgent need for action. “Every step taken today translates directly into a meal for a hungry child and a ray of hope for those living on our streets or without parental care,” Nyangweso stated. “The Kakamega Approved School, as our start and end point, reminds us of the vulnerable youth we strive to support and reintegrate positively into society. This walk is about mobilising our community to ensure no child is left behind.”

Fueling the Mission:

The primary goal of the charity walk was to raise crucial funds for SCOSK’s “Feed a Child” program. Proceeds will directly support:

  1. Immediate Nutritional Aid: Providing daily meals for street-connected children and orphans in SCOSK’s care programs.
  2. Sustained Support: Funding educational materials, school fees, and essential supplies to facilitate access to education.
  3. Holistic Care: Supporting SCOSK’s efforts in providing shelter, counseling, skills training, and family reunification services where possible.

Community Spirit in Action:

The event concluded back at the Kakamega Approved School with a celebratory atmosphere. Participants enjoyed refreshments, shared experiences, and learned more about SCOSK’s ongoing work. The strong turnout demonstrated significant community engagement and a shared commitment to improving the lives of Kakamega’s most vulnerable children.

Looking Ahead:

The success of the inaugural 5km “Feed a Child” Charity Walk marks a significant step for SCOSK in Kakamega. Project Coordinator Nyangweso expressed profound gratitude to all participants, sponsors, and volunteers, reaffirming SCOSK’s dedication to creating lasting change. The funds raised promise tangible support, bringing the society closer to its vision of a Kenya where every street child and orphan is safe, nourished, educated, and empowered.

It’s Not How You Found Yourself Kenyan—It’s What You Do with It That Matters

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By Edris Omondi.

The Author is a Strategic Thinker, an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya, former Kisumu County Attorney, and a Civic Educator passionate about Youth Empowerment, National and International Development, and Generational justice.

edrisadvocates@gmail.com

Introduction: The Unchosen Identity

None of us chose to be Kenyan. We were born into this soil—into its beauty and its burden, its promise and its pain. For some, it meant growing up in hardship; for others, in comfort. For many, it meant inheriting inequality, corruption, or conflict. But whether by accident or by ancestry, we are here. And the real question is not how we got here, but what we’re doing to make Kenya a better place for ourselves and generations to come.

Our Past: Generations That Carried the Weight

Kenya’s history is filled with generations who rose to the occasion, regardless of how they found the nation.

The freedom fighters of the 1950s didn’t choose to be born under colonialism, but they gave their lives to end it. They believed a free Kenya was worth fighting for.

The post-independence builders of the ’60s and ’70s: teachers, farmers, civil servants, and entrepreneurs-carved something out of very little. They planted trees, built homes, and started schools where none existed.

The reformers of the ’90s and early 2000s, who fought for multi-party democracy, constitutional change, and human rights, didn’t inherit perfect systems—but they demanded better.

Each generation had its own struggles, but they left behind something: freedom, institutions, ideas, and a roadmap. Now the baton is firmly in our hands—particularly in the hands of Gen Z.

Gen Z: Kenya’s Most Connected, Most Conscious Generation

Kenya’s Gen Z is a generation like no other. Born between 1997 and 2012, they’ve never known a Kenya without internet, mobile phones, or hashtags. They are digitally native, socially aware, and fearless in expression. They challenge norms. They call out injustice. They create content, communities, and culture.

But the question must be asked: Will this generation turn its outrage into outcome? Its energy into enterprise? Its passion into purpose?

Too often, Gen Z is dismissed as loud, distracted, or entitled. But history shows us that every generation that was once misunderstood went on to reshape the world. If Gen Z applies its unmatched energy to innovation, civic action, entrepreneurship, and climate consciousness, Kenya will not only survive—it will thrive.

From Discontent to Disruption

Kenya faces staggering youth unemployment, rampant inequality, and political fatigue. But here lies the opportunity. Gen Z can:

  • Build enterprises, not just chase employment.
  • Design apps, not just scroll through them.
  • Organize communities, not just critique systems.
  • Vote smart, not just tweet hard.

The same tools used to create viral trends can build global businesses. The same voices used in TikTok activism can organize policy shifts. The same frustration with government inefficiency can spark civic-tech innovations.

Rewriting the Narrative: Kenya Is Still Becoming

We must stop asking young people to “wait their turn.” Kenya’s problems are now, so the solutions must begin now-with the boldness that Gen Z naturally carries.

Kenya is not a finished product. It is a becoming a continuous, evolving journey. And like every great journey, it requires new travellers with new ideas. That’s where the youth come in-not as future leaders, but as current shapers of a different Kenya.

A Legacy Mindset: Planting Trees You May Never Sit Under

To those born into systems they didn’t choose, and burdens they didn’t create, your mission is clear: make this nation better than you found it. That’s legacy. That’s patriotism. And that’s the highest form of citizenship.

A better Kenya will not fall from the sky. It will be built from the ground-in code, on farms, through art, in courtrooms, on ballots, and on stages. Your surname doesn’t need to be famous. Your background doesn’t have to be elite. All you need is intentionality and the understanding that how you make Kenya better is your true national identity.

Conclusion: The Choice Is Yours

Being Kenyan isn’t a choice. But what you do with it is.

Will you be a passenger in your own country—or a driver of its destiny? Will you inherit the problems or solve them? Will you complain about the nation—or contribute to its healing?

Every generation is given a moment. For Gen Z, this is yours.

Edited by Sandra Blessing

Safeguarding Democracy Through Tech

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Billy Mijungu

By Billy Mijungu

In Kenya’s fast-evolving democratic space, a new force is emerging: Generation Z. These digital natives are rewriting the rules of civic engagement. Frustrated by opaque electoral processes and driven by the need for transparency, young Kenyans are stepping up to build tools that protect and strengthen democracy through technology.
At the center of this shift is the development of digital systems that independently capture, verify, and analyze election results in real time.

These innovations focus on data from Form 34A—the official document filled at each polling station that records presidential votes. Once an image or scan of the form is uploaded, advanced tools such as artificial intelligence and optical character recognition (OCR) extract the vote counts. The system then automatically compiles this data into Forms 34B and 34C, which are used to tally constituency and national results. Simultaneously, the system cross-checks its findings against the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) portal to highlight any discrepancies instantly.

What makes this movement particularly powerful is its scalability and inclusivity. The same systems being used to monitor presidential elections are being adapted to track results across all elective seats Governors, senators, women representatives, members of the national assembly, and members of county assemblies. The vision is clear: a grassroots-led, tech-enabled, transparent electoral process in which every vote is counted accurately and in full view of the public.

This innovation is not happening in boardrooms or foreign-funded programs. It is emerging from local tech hubs, university labs, and youth-led initiatives. These young developers and civic technologists are not driven by profit but by purpose. Many are crowd-sourcing resources and collaborating in open-source communities to ensure the systems remain free, transparent, and trustworthy.

Their efforts address a long-standing challenge in Kenya’s democratic journey. Past elections have been marred by allegations of fraud, delayed results, and legal disputes. These issues have eroded public trust in electoral institutions and, in some cases, led to unrest. By giving citizens tools to verify results independently, this new wave of civic technology restores confidence and shifts the power dynamics placing oversight into the hands of the people.

In keeping up with people-centric elections, Kenyans are likely to go further building open, accessible databases that safeguard the integrity of public service and the individuals entrusted with it. These databases could track public officeholders’ performance, ethical records, promises made versus delivered, and even financial disclosures. This kind of transparency ensures that elected leaders remain accountable beyond election day and throughout their time in office.

More than just safeguarding the vote, these efforts have broader implications. A democracy protected at the ballot box translates into a more accountable public service. When leaders know their legitimacy is rooted in an indisputable mandate, they are more likely to focus on service delivery, development, and policy grounded in public interest.

Kenya is witnessing a digital awakening. Generation Z is no longer content to be passive observers of democracy. They are actively shaping it, using technology as both shield and spotlight. With each line of code and every verified result, they are strengthening the democratic foundation of the nation.

In this new era, safeguarding democracy means empowering citizens. It means ensuring that every vote counts and is counted truthfully. And most importantly, it means building a future where public service is guided by integrity, enabled by technology, and driven by the will of the people.

Magwanga:  I am not interested in Kasipul parliamentary seat, I support all the aspirants

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By Team

Homa Bay Deputy Governor Oyugi Magwanga has said he is not interested in the vacant Kasipul parliamentary seat terming those associating him with the seat as “day dreamers and political cowards”.

Magwanga said it was a culturally wrong for some quarters to associate him with the seat and that as an elder he supports all the aspirants who have shown interest to replace the slain MP Charles Ongondo Were.

He said suggestions by some quarters that he would resign from his deputy governor seat were baseless, uncalled for and a pipe dream.

Magwanga said suggestion by some quarters that he should resign to allow Kemsa director Hesborn Omollo to replace him is childish and backward thinking.

“I was nominated by my party ODM, and we ran on a joint party ticket with Governor Gladys Wanga.

If anyone, intends to bring a stranger into the mix.

Let us all resign and go back to the electorates to get a fresh mandate.

I left a record as the MP for Kasipul through my performance and was even declared the best performing MP. Not even my successor was able to beat my record.

I want to state it here; I will not run for parliamentary seat.

I had graduated from that to the next level. 

So, anyone dreaming of Magwanga going parliamentary seat must be out of their mind,” he said in an interview.

A section of the social media was awash with claims that Magwanga would resign to contest for the vacant Kasipul parliamentary seat, after Omollo declared that he was not interested in the gubernatorial seat for Homa Bay.

Mr. Hesborn Omollo in a statement in his Facebook page said his community service engagement should not be misconstrued as an attempt to rally support for gubernatorial contest.

Omollo’s community engagement had brought disquiet in the ODM wing with the Governor Gladys Wanga and her supporters taking issue with his community engagement.

Within the last two years, Omollo had crisscrossed the county engaging in funds drive and other activities that created panic among other political players in the county.

“I wish to categorically state that I am not pursuing the gubernatorial seat for Homabay County and neither have I stated as such before.

This is a time for service delivery, not political competition. 

My dedication to community development and empowerment remains steadfast, and I urge my people to focus on initiatives that foster growth and progress. 

Let us move forward with clarity and purpose.”  he spoke. 

Magwanga said the residents of  Kasipul constituency should be allowed to choose a candidate of their choice and outside interference will not be tolerated.

“Let me say, the people of Kasipul should be allowed to make a choice of their preferred MP who will serve them. 

Unnecessary interference and peddling of cheap propaganda by some quarters will be rebuffed accordingly.

As elders, we must allow the aspirants to sell their policies to the electorates to enable them to make informed decision. 

Let the outsiders stay away and allow the aspirants conduct peaceful campaigns,” he said.

Already 17 aspirants have shown interest in the vacant seat, and they include Samwel Owida, Philip Aroko, Victor Mbaka, Boyd Were, Rateng Otiende, Tom Sipul, Ajoh Mbuta, Ken Okoth Jam. Joash Aloo, Swaleh Omondi, Okindo Majiwa,  Colins Otieno, Mary Askon, Newton Ogada, Edward Oloo Otula, Allan Odera, and Robert Money Mabior.

A recent night meeting between Wanga and  Magwanga over a possible candidate to succeed Were ended in a stalemate.

Wanga arrived at Nagwanga home’s shortly after 8.30 pm in accompany of three, top officers at the County Government and the county Assembly and left shortly after 4.30 am.

It was the first time, Wanga visited Magwanga’s home after she was elected the governor of Homa Bay county and source revealed on the candidate to succeed Ongondo.

Wanga and her team tried to prevail over Magwanga to support Ongondo’s son, Boyd Were, but the latter was reluctant and did not commit to the proposal.

On the table, sources told Western Insight, that Wanga asked Magwanga to support Boyd and in return she would support his candidature for Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Homa Bay County chairman seat.

Magwanga confirmed the visit saying they discussed various issues and neither denied or confirmed whether he was approached to support the son of his political nemesis and would return get the county ODM chair seat.

“The Governor visited me last night and we discussed several issues. 

You are free to speculate whatever we discussed.

I have been having several visitors to my home and everyone is welcome,” he said.

Recently, Western Insight report that attempts by a section of MPs from Nyanza led by Wanga, who is ODM national Chairperson to have Boyd get direct nomination was hitting a snag and had split the party.

Wanga and other leaders recently presented Mr. Boyd Were at a local church and asked the residents to support his candidature to inherit his father’s seat.

Wanga, Homa Bay Town MP Opondo Kaluma, Senator Moses Kajwang, minority whip Millie Odhiambo and Roza Buyu (Kisumu West) said late Were’s son was the best suited family member to replace his father as Kasipul member of parliament.

The team promised to support Boyd who swore to stand strong with the people of Kasipul during his late father’s burial on his quest to become the next Constituency MP.

But the party top leadership hierarchy was uncomfortable with the move and want free and fair nomination conducted to avoid any fallout in the party.

Edited by Hope Barbra

Raphael Tuju: A man with no footprint and a possible heir apparent to the throne

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By Anderson Ojwang              

He is smooth, and sleek with no foot prints to trace but indeed the main player behind the curtains.

The bulldozer and mover but non-controversial. 

His innocent looks are often misconstrued as a weakness but in actual sense, it is where his strength lies and is hidden.

He is a man with nine lives, a story within a story.

He is invincible in the political limelight where politicians love to be recognized and to identify with the public, but his amiable presence tells of his importance to the masters.

He talks less and only when it is important and necessary but he has remained the propeller of events.

The mover and pusher.

The master schemer per excellence.

A fighter with no fear.

A champion least recognized but adored and appreciated by those within his ranks.

The tall and ever smiling with a deep voice that once vibrated in most of Kenyans homes.

Meet former Rarieda MP, former cabinet minister and former Jubilee Secretary General and a respected Journalist, Mr. Raphael Tuju.

The stone, that was once rejected but has become a pillar in the community dispensation pulling the ropes from behind the scenes and indeed the rock of the moment.

“In my younger years, I worked as a Television Producer with several documentary films to my credit and earning the distinction of being the first TV Producer in Africa to win an International Emmy award for a TV production.

I mainly addressed health and human development issues in my communication career with HIV/AIDS and Gender Empowerment being the main subject matter and in which I am credited with some of the major groundbreaking marks in Kenya,” he once said about his achievement as a journalist.

In 2002, Tuju was elected as a member of parliament (MP) for Rarieda constituency in the December 2002 parliamentary elections.

He served until 2007 and managed to promote the education sector in the region by building new classrooms. 

He also implemented a major water project for the Rarieda people and introduced an innovative mobile hospital to reduce infant mortality as a result of malaria and HIV/AIDS.

Tuju witnessed the construction of tarmac road and the distribution of electricity to several institutions and homes in the area, leaving an inedible mark.

He is particularly remembered for his bravery when he sensibly warned the European governments during the 29th Asillah cultural festivals held in Morocco in 2007 for establishing policies which deprive African Development through trade partnership.

Tuju was awarded the second highest civilian title in Kenya, E.G.H. (Elder of the Golden Heart) by President Mwai Kibaki for his many years of service to the people of Kenya in the area of health, human development and public service.

Currently, Tuju is least understood and under estimated by majority but he is the cog in Raila’s political dispensation.

In most of Raila’s high profile meetings, he will appear among the crowd but remains the force behind the scenes.

While Siaya leaders have been skinning themselves in funerals and other public fora over broad based government, Tuju has taken to his silence and only appeared at the stage in Statehouse.

During the meeting between President William Ruto and leaders from Siaya and where those who had chance to speak before the president took several minutes to speak, Tuju took the least minute and delivered a powerful speech.

“I want to request the people of Siaya that there is something we should not take for granted, in this country.

That is peace and stability that enables us to even talk about the development agenda that we have here today.

And I like to congratulate his Excellency, the President and of course congratulate Prime Minister Raila Odinga for the very possible positive step that the two of them have taken to make us be where we are today.

I don’t take it for granted because, because I know out of the 10 failed states in the whole world, six are in our region.

So, it is very easy for us to make a lot of noise and to say a lot of things in funerals. Please this is a window of opportunity.

Let focus,” he said.

Tuju in his usual mien has kept everyone guessing about his next political move with other proposing that he becomes the next Siaya Governor in the 2027 general elections while others want him to be the heir apparent to Raila and be rewarded with a senior position in the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party.

Sources have revealed that Raila is comfortable with Tuju and in him he believes the community is in safe hands and that the Luo stand to gain in all fronts.

“So much is happening behind the scenes and Tuju is the man to watch.

He may just end up as the heir apparent.

He is very unpredictable and that is what makes him the best candidate to lead the community forward.

His honesty, truthfulness, simplicity are some of the virtues that have made Jakom to develop soft spot for him.

Watch the space.

It is just a matter of when and not how,” said our sources.

EDITED BY: HOPE BARBRA

Race for the numbers as battle ground shifts to schools with Nyanza, Western, Rift Valley and lower Eastern the main beneficiaries

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By Anderson Ojwang           

With only two years to the next general elections, the race for numbers is shifting to secondary schools where the government has directed for school-based issuance of national identity card.

Nyanza, Western and Rift Valley enjoy the majority of students in secondary schools, while lower Eastern counties will also carry huge chunk of the new voters going by the high student population.

The vote rich Mt Kenya is witnessing a downward spiral in the number of students in the secondary schools while Northeastern and Coast have maintained the low percentage.

A circular from Principal Secretary, ministry of education, state department for basic education, Amb. Prof Julius K. Bitok, wrote and captioned “facilitation of school-based ID registration exercise second term, 2023.

The State department for immigration and citizen services, through the national registration bureau (NRB), intends to undertake a mobile national ID registration drive targeting eligible students in secondary schools during the current (second) school term (May-August 2025).

This initiative is designed to ensure that Kenyan students who have attained the age if 18 are registered for national identity cards while still in school, enabling them to access tertiary education placement, job opportunities and financial aid such as HELB loans without delay upon completion of secondary education.

You are therefore, requested to urgently notify all secondary school principals within your jurisdiction to collaborate with county and deputy county registration officers for the successful implementation of the exercise in their schools.

Please, also inform the principals that for the purposes of this exercise, they or their deputies will serve as identification agents for the students in place of National Government Administration officers (NGAO).

Your immediate action in this matter will be appreciated” wrote Bitok in a memo to all Regional Directors of Education and all County Directors of Education.

In 2023, Kenya had approximately 13.2 million students enrolled in pre-primary, primary, and secondary schools.

Specifically, there were 2.9 million in pre-primary, 10.2 million in primary and 4.1 million in secondary schools.

In 2023 Bungoma and Kakamega had the highest number if students enrolled at 203,195 and 199,124 respectively.

Nakuru had 195,393, Kiambu 147,033, Machakos 143,550, homa bay 143,550. Muranga, 135,093Meru 134,402, Siaya 130,784, Makueni 130,305 and Nairobi 125,566.

Others Kisumu 123,499, Kisii 123449, Kitui 120,489, Kericho 114,816 , Nandi 108,830  , Trans Nzoia  108,415, Bomet 107,935 , Kilifi 98,696 , Busia 88,549, Uasin Gishu 84,969 , Nyamira 84,749, Vihiga 83,256, Nyeri 80,536, Narok 79,809 , Nyandarua 66,872 , Baringo 65,665, Kirinyaga 63,145,  Embu 62,930 , Elgeyo Marakwet 59,219, Kajiado 59,102 , Tharaka Nthi 58,533,  Kwale 55,779, West Pokot 50,020,  Laikipia 45,397, Mombasa 43,902,  Taita Taveta 33,032, Wajir 28,734, Mandera 27,734 , Turkana 27,430, Garissa 23,970, Marsabit 13,531, Samburu 12,823, tana river12,009 , Isiolo 10,444 and Lamu 1,033.

There are 10,752 secondary schools in the country and according to data from the commission of Revenue Allocation list Kitui as the county with the highest  number of public school with 443  and  12 private schools followed by Kakamega with 425 and 28 private schools, Makueni with 390 and 17 private schools, Meru with 388, and 22 private schools, Machakos with 368, and 83 private schools, Bungoma 367, and 29 private schools, Nakuru with 360,and 149 private schools, Kisii, 359, and 20 private schools,, Homa Bay with 329, and 23 private schools, and Muranga  with 313, and 33 private schools.

Others are Migori with 283, and private schools, Nairobi with 101,and private schools, Bomet with   286,and private schools, Trans Nzoia with 240, and private schools, Kericho with 241, Kisumu with 230, and 20 private schools, Nandi with 239,and 9 private schools, Siaya with 242,and 11 private schools,  Nyeri with 221,and 17 private schools,  Uasin Gishu  194,and  40 private schools, Embu with 196,and 13 private schools, Nyandarua  with 173,and 31 private schools, Kilifi with 159, and 44 private schools, Nyamira with 190,and  4 private schools, Baringo with 176,and 7 private schools, Narok with 160, and 17 private schools, Busia with 162, and  7private schools, Kirinyaga with 153, and 15 private schools, Kajiado with 92,and  73 private schools, West Pokot  with 162, and 2 private schools, Vihiga with 159,and 3 private schools, Tharaka Nthi  with 151, and  9 private schools, Laikipia with 120, and  20 private schools, Elgeyo Marakwet  with 128, and  2 private schools.

Counties with least number of public secondary schools are Lamu at 27,and 4 private schools, Isiolo32, and 3 private schools, Tana River 33, and 2 private schools, Garisa with 35 and 33 private schools, Marsabit with 42, and 6 private schools, Samburu with 44,and 8 private schools, Mombasa with 50, and 79 private schools, Wajir with 53,and 3 private schools, Turkana, with 57,and 4 private schools, Mandera with 57, and 8 private schools, Taita Taveta with 87 and 7 private schools, and Kwale with  91.and 10 private schools.

In 2024, a total of 962,512 candidates  sat for Kenya  Certificate  of Secondary Examinations.

This represented a 7.19 percent increase compared to the 899,453 candidates who sat in 2023.

Political analyst Prof Obondi Otieno says the number of students exiting secondary schools will be a major determinant in the next general election with over 2 million expected to be issued with identity card and legible to register as voters.

“If you look at the student’s distribution per regions, Nyanza, Western, Rift Valley and Lower Eastern have the majority and this will have a catalyzing effect in the general elections.

The upward trajectory for the four regions is interesting and a possible alliance by the regions would be boosted by the new voters,” he argues.

Edited By Hope Barbra

Passing over the baton: Will Allan succeed Henry in Nandi politics?

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By Remmy Butia

Political Dynasty in the Making: Kosgey Family Enters New Era

In a significant political development that could reshape Nandi County’s leadership landscape, veteran Kenyan politician Henry Kiprono Kosgey has officially announced his support for his son, Wakili Allan Kosgey, to vie for the Nandi gubernatorial seat in the 2027 general elections.

This endorsement marks a potential transition of political power within one of Kenya’s most enduring political families and sets the stage for an intriguing electoral battle in the Rift Valley region.

Henry Kosgey, the former longest-serving Member of Parliament for Tinderet Constituency and a cabinet minister with an unparalleled record of service spanning over three decades, made the announcement during a family gathering in their Nandi homeland.

The elder Kosgey, now 77 years old, framed his decision as both a passing of the torch to the next generation and a strategic move to maintain the family’s influence in Nandi politics.

The Kosgey Political Legacy

Henry Kiprono Kosgey’s political career represents one of the most remarkable in Kenyan history.

First elected as Tinderet MP in 1979 under Daniel arap Moi’s Kenya African National Union (KANU) party, Kosgey went on to serve an unprecedented six terms in Parliament, making him the second longest-serving legislator after former President Mwai Kibaki.

His ministerial career was equally distinguished, having served in eight different cabinet positions including: Minister for Transport and Communications (1979-1985), Minister for Industrialization (2008-2013), Minister for Education (2001-2002) and Minister for Tourism (1998-1999).

Kosgey’s tenure saw him navigate Kenya’s complex political landscape, from the one-party state era through multi-party democracy, eventually becoming National Chairman of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).

His ability to maintain political relevance across decades and regimes speaks to his strategic acumen and deep connection with his constituents.

Wakili Allan Kosgey: The Next Generation

While details about Wakili Allan Kosgey’s background remain scarce, his father’s endorsement carries significant weight in Nandi politics.

The Kosgey name remains influential in the region, associated with both political longevity and economic success (the family owns substantial tea farms).

Henry Kosgey emphasized that his son represents “new energy with respect for our traditions and values,” suggesting a campaign that will likely blend youthful innovation with the political network and experience of the Kosgey dynasty.

The elder Kosgey’s extensive connections across Rift Valley politics and his standing as a Kalenjin political titan provide his son with immediate credibility and access to established political machinery.

Political Context and Challenges

The 2027 Nandi gubernatorial race is already shaping up to be highly competitive.

Current Governor Stephen Sang will be completing his second term, creating an open seat that has attracted several aspirants. Wakili Allan Kosgey will need to quickly establish his own political identity beyond his father’s shadow while leveraging the family’s deep roots in the county.

Henry Kosgey’s endorsement comes with both advantages and potential pitfalls.

While it provides instant name recognition and access to political networks, it also associates the younger Kosgey with his father’s controversial moments.

The Kalenjin Political Landscape

Nandi County politics operates within the broader context of Kalenjin and Rift Valley political dynamics. Henry Kosgey’s career demonstrated an ability to work across political divides – from his early days in KANU to his later leadership in ODM.

This cross-party experience could prove valuable as his son navigates the evolving political alliances in the region.

The endorsement also raises questions about the future of political dynasties in Kenya.

With several political families seeking to pass leadership to younger generations, the Kosgey case will be closely watched as a test of whether name recognition and established networks can overcome voter demands for fresh faces and ideas.

Road to 2027

As the campaign season begins, political observers will be watching: How Wakili Allan Kosgey establishes his own platform separate from his father’s legacy, which political party banner he will run under in the evolving Kenyan political landscape, how he addresses concerns about political dynasty-building, his ability to connect with younger voters while maintaining his father’s traditional support base and the development agenda he proposes for Nandi County

Henry Kosgey’s announcement marks both an ending and a beginning – the potential conclusion of one of Kenya’s most remarkable political careers and the opening chapter of what could become another. As the elder statesman reportedly said during the endorsement: “I have served my time with all my energy. Now it’s time for new blood with new ideas, but the same commitment to our people.”

EDITED BY: HOPE BARBRA

Madaraka Day: The Four seats left conspicuously unoccupied, what could be boiling in ODM?

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By Anderson Ojwang  

The much-hyped historic Madaraka day celebration in Homa Bay county did not disappoint in all fronts.

If anything, to go by, it opened a can of worm of a possible dissent and displeasure by a section of political divide.

The Kenya’s largest opposition party, Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) could be facing a test of the moment with emerging dissenting voices in the party.

The Madaraka celebration held in Homa Bay county was a pointer to the trying moments in the party after the deputy party leaders and secretary general gave the function a wide berth.

The seats were reserved for the three deputy party leaders namely, Kisii Governor Simba Arati, his Mombasa Counterpart Abdulswamad  Sherif Nassir, Vihiga senator Godfrey Atieno Osotsi, and Secretary General Edwin Sifuna were marked and designated to them but remained conspicuously unoccupied during the event.

Previously, the deputy party leaders and the Secretary general together with other party leaders would jostle to be in functions attended by the party leader Raila Odinga.

But the converse is now rooting its way deep into the party with ODM party leaders and members often skipping Raila’s functions, a pointer to emerging voices and allegiance to different political blocks.

Arati, opted to celebrate Madaraka Day at Gusii stadium some 70 Kms away from Homa Bay town, where the party national chairperson Gladys Wanga hosted Raila and President William Ruto.

Arati wrote on his X space “I am deeply grateful to the people of Kisii for coming out in such large numbers to celebrate the 62nd Madaraka at Gusii stadium. The event was a true reflection of our unity, joy and unwavering resilience.

Together, we continue to build a stronger, more prosperous Kisii for all. Thank you for your spirit and commitment to our shared progress.”

Abdulsamad also celebrated Madaraka day at the coast while Osostsi, also deputy party leader and gubernatorial aspirant for Vihiga county gave the celebration a wide berth.

Sifuna who witnessed the signing of memorandum of understanding (MOU) between UDA leader, President Ruto and his ODM leader Raila, has maintained opposition to the broad based government.

In one of his tweets in the X Space he wrote “Campaigns for 2027 elections have begun, and Ruto is facing resistance during his tours.

The ODM party hasn’t given up in its quest to lead the country.

We are committed to making Ruto a one term president I will not vote for Willaim Ruto in 2027 election.”

ODM Director of Communication Philip Etale down played the absence of the four top party leaders saying they were committed elsewhere.

“We should not read too much politics on the matter.

It is true the seats remained conspicuously unoccupied; this was so because the protocol team could have anticipated that the four leaders may attend the function.

Arati and Abdulsamad opted to celebrate the event in their counties to share with the electorates and also explain their development agenda.

For Osotsi, the party had sent him to Kilifi to go and resolve emerging dispute in the county.

The meeting was scheduled for Sunday evening.

So, it was important that he was at the place in advance.

For SG, he had function in Nairobi and distributed various items to various groups in Nairobi. That too was part of celebrating Madaraka.” He said.

He said ODM was a democratic party and was founded on the principle of democracy and that is why leaders on personal level express their view on various matter including broad-based government.

Some of the ODM members have been seen to leaning towards impeached Deputy president Rigathi Gachagua opposition team and have been critical of the political union between Ruto and Raila.

Raila at the weekend rejected an overture by Gachagua that they were prepared to make him president in the 2027 presidential elections.

Siaya Governor James Orengo, a critic of the arrangement seems to have toned down his stance and will tomorrow lead leaders from the county in a consultative and development meeting with president Ruti at the Statehouse Nairobi. 

Interestingly, Kisumu Governor Prof Anyang Nyong’o in a press statement supported the broad-based government saying, “the decision by President William Ruto and Raila Odinga to work together was in the interest of national unity and development.”

Nyong’o called on all Kenya’s to rally behind the broad-based vision for a stronger more inclusive Kenya.

“During the visit in Kisumu, President Ruto commissioned several transformative projects which promise to significantly uplift the lives of our people which includes Makasembo Phase One,LV Marina Affordable Housing Project at Kirembe and Groundbreaking for Makasembo Affordable Housing Project Phase 3” he said.

Nyong’o appreciated President Ruto for the broad portfolio of the development projects his administration has initiated in Kisumu County are progressing with notable ones being, tarmacking of Mamboleo-Miwani Road, Kabonyo Regional Fisheries and Aqua Culture Service and Training Centre of Excellence in Nyando Sub-County and the new Air Traffic Control (ATC) Tower at Kisumu International Airport.

“As a County, we stand firmly behind the vision outlined in the recently signed MOU that underpins the broad-based government, and he is always welcomed in Kisumu” he said.

Political Analyst Mr. Mike Agwanda said the decision by top leadership of ODM to skip the Madaraka day celebrations could be tactical and was meant to send a message that all was not well in the party.

“In Kisii land, former Minister Dr Fred Matangi is creating a political buzz and the ODM leadership are feeling challenged.

They are being forced to conform with new political dynamics” he argued.

Agwanda said some leaders also feel discomfort by the kind of development in Nyanza by the national government and may be on go slow.

“You cannot underestimate Raila. Raila knows his political game and those playing hard may find themselves irrelevant” he said.

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