By Kepher Otieno

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Traoré forward ever, backward never.

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

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

Kepherpeace@gmail.com

By Team

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

He said the infrastructure upgrade implementation has not commenced.

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

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

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

By Habil Onyango

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Anderson Ojwang

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Habil Onyango

A 71-year-old gentleman from Nakuru County is poised to make history by walking to Homa Bay County to participate in the Madaraka Day celebrations.

Steven Kariuki is determined to reach Homa Bay Town, the County headquarters, where the festivities are scheduled on Saturday, June 1, 2024.

In a video shared by Homa Bay County Commissioner Moses Lilan, who encountered the dedicated Kenyan in Kericho while en route to the Homa Bay on Sunday, Kariuki declined an offer for a lift to Homa Bay.

From Nakuru to Homa Bay is approximately 230 Kilometers and takes 4 hours 30 minutes via road.

According to Kariuki, he started his journey on May 21 and anticipates walking the entire distance to the “County of Endless Potential”.

President William Ruto, alongside other leaders, is expected to preside over the celebrations, which will take place at Raila Odinga Stadium.

The County Commissioner inquired, “Now that I have met you in Kericho and I am also headed to Homa Bay, can I offer you a lift so that we can travel together?”

Kariuki however, stated, “I have made a personal commitment to walk to Homa Bay; however, I appreciate the offer.”

Kariuki perceives this trek as a demonstration of patriotism that he hopes will inspire other Kenyans. He noted that the upcoming Madaraka Day celebrations will mark his thirteenth event attended through walking.

“I have participated in Madaraka Day celebrations in Kakamega, Kericho, Kisii, Kirinyaga, Embu, and Nairobi, where I have attended five times, among other locations,” he shared.

“My objective is to join fellow Kenyans during this significant occasion and celebrate together,” he emphasized.

Moreover, Kariuki urged his fellow citizens to foster peace, love, and harmony while rejecting tribal divisions.

“In Kenya, we constitute a singular entity, and our identity is that of Kenyans.

We must collectively express love for our country; we are all interconnected,” he stated.

The County Commissioner assured Kariuki that he would arrange accommodations in Homa Bay and offered to cover for his return journey to Nakuru County.

“You are welcome to Homa Bay.

Once you arrive, please call me.

I will provide you with a place to stay and ensure your fare back to Nakuru is covered,” Lilan promised.

Kariuki is a family man, and he is also a grandfather.

By Billy Mijungu

Nairobi, Kenya – The Planning and Development Department within the State Department for Children Welfare Services has emerged as a cornerstone in Kenya’s efforts to safeguard children’s rights and welfare, according to recent disclosures by senior officials in the ministry.

Operating under the Children Act 2022, the department is mandated to coordinate national child protection systems, build workforce capacity, and support data-driven policy and program decisions.

Its work is driven by a vision of a society where all children enjoy their rights and responsibilities and a mission to strengthen the legal and institutional framework supporting children’s welfare.

The department is responsible for overseeing budget planning, managing the national Child Protection Information Management System (CPIMS), and guiding performance management, research, and evaluation.

It also coordinates strategic workplans, manages public communication, and evaluates the effectiveness of child protection policies and programs.

Among its key achievements is the successful scale-up of the CPIMS, now managing records of over 2.7 million children.

Officials note that this has greatly enhanced national coordination and visibility of child protection cases.

The department has also led the development of a standardized curriculum for child protection officers, which is now being delivered through the Kenya School of Government, further strengthening the capacity of over 1,000 trained volunteers and frontline workers.

One of its flagship initiatives, the International Conference on Child Protection in Africa, has positioned Kenya as a regional leader in child welfare dialogue.

The conference has attracted stakeholders from more than 22 African countries and played a critical role in advancing care reform and national child protection policies.

Despite the progress, the department faces major challenges. Limited budget allocations have stalled several key activities including regular supervision of children, improvement of office infrastructure, and roll-out of services at the county level.

A shortage of technical personnel and inadequate ICT equipment continue to hinder operations.

Additionally, overreliance on donor support raises concerns about the sustainability of the department’s long-term goals.

In response, the department is calling for increased government investment, enhanced staffing, acquisition of digital tools, and greater financial autonomy for the State Department for Children Welfare Services.

It also highlights the need for deeper collaboration with development partners and stakeholders to scale successful interventions and promote sustainable protection systems.

Officials have recognized the critical role of partners including UNICEF, USAID, and numerous civil society and faith-based organizations. Their continued support remains key to advancing the department’s child-focused mission.

As Kenya continues to reform its child welfare landscape, the Planning and Development Department stands at the forefront, championing innovation, accountability, and inclusivity for the country’s youngest and most vulnerable citizens.

By Kepher Otieno

As Kenya marks another Madaraka Day on June 1st, we not only celebrate our hard-won internal self-rule attained in 1963, but also the unfolding promise of equitable development under the leadership of President William Ruto.

This year, the spotlight shines on Homa Bay County—a region rich in history, potential, and now, renewed hope.

Madaraka Day has always stood as a symbol of self-determination, a reminder of our freedom fighters’ sacrifice, and a moment to reflect on the journey toward national unity and shared prosperity.

In recent years, it has evolved into more than just a day of commemoration—it has become an instrument of transformation.

The policy to rotate national celebrations among counties is not only inclusive but visionary.

And Homa Bay, this year’s host, is a shining example of what this model can achieve.

President Ruto’s Hand in Homa Bay’s Transformation

It would be remiss not to acknowledge the role of President William Ruto in Homa Bay’s current transformation.

In a county long overlooked despite its strategic location and abundant resources, the President has shown a genuine commitment to rewriting the narrative.

By championing infrastructure upgrades, affordable housing, trade facilitation, and improved public services, President Ruto has sent a clear message: development is a right for all 47 counties, not a privilege for a few.

The residents of Homa Bay have taken notice. Many I spoke to—business owners, boda boda riders, farmers, youth—shared a similar sentiment: they feel seen, heard, and empowered.

Come the 2027 general election, several said they will remember who made this difference possible.

“We owe the Ruto-led government a debt of gratitude,” one resident told me. “This time, we will say thank you with our votes.”

A United Front: National and County Governments in Sync

Also deserving of recognition is Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, who has worked hand in hand with the national government to ensure that this opportunity delivers long-lasting benefits.

Her openness to collaboration and shared development goals has created a seamless partnership, one that prioritises results over rhetoric.

Governor Wanga herself has lauded the rotating Madaraka Day model as a game-changer, calling it an inclusive approach to nation-building.

Her leadership, alongside that of local officials and Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo—a humble son of the region and an industrous technocrat and beaucrat—has accelerated the implementation of key projects across the county.

Already, the results are visible. Roads have been upgraded, streetlights switched on, housing projects launched, and the local stadium transformed into a modern facility.

These aren’t mere cosmetic changes; they are investments in the people of Homa Bay, catalysts for trade, tourism, and jobs.

Beyond infrastructure, Homa Bay is now positioning itself as a hub for agriculture, fisheries, real estate, and manufacturing. Investors are paying attention. Land values are rising, and the mood across towns and villages is hopeful.

Madaraka Day, it seems, has not only revived the spirit of freedom—it has reignited the engines of growth.

The success in Homa Bay is proof that when counties are given national attention, they rise to the occasion. Rotating national celebrations is more than symbolism; it’s a strategic tool for decentralizing opportunity. It spreads both visibility and value across the republic.

As we gather to mark Madaraka Day this year, let us honour our past while embracing a more equitable future—one where no county is forgotten, and no Kenyan is left behind. President Ruto’s leadership in this endeavor is commendable, and Homa Bay stands today as a living testimony to what visionary governance can achieve.

For the people of Homa Bay, this Madaraka Day is more than a national celebration.

It is a thank-you note to a government that remembered them, believed in them, and delivered for them.

They owe President Ruto more rewards in the 2027 General Elections at the ballot so that more such developments can continue for the common good of all.

The writer is a media consultant and regular commentator on governance, democracy and development.
Kepherpeace@gmail.com