Home Blog Page 160

Owen challenges Orengo over youths who supported him during his political struggles By Team

By
-
0

By Team

In a rare show of courage, Kisumu County Assembly Clerk, Mr Owen Ojuok, challenged Siaya Governor James Orengo to consider supporting and extending a helping hand to the youths who stood by him during his political struggles.

Owen, who is also an advocate, took the bull by the horns to confront Orengo over the matter, which is a common topic in most parts of the Nyanza region but is often discussed behind the Governor’s back.

Owen, who spoke at a funeral in Siaya in the presence of Orengo, told him that the majority of the youths who supported his political ideology and were incarcerated because of him have been left to wallow in poverty despite their struggle for change.

**“Governor Jim, you remember very well how Audi Ogada and others supported you in Thika during the Ford-K elections. You remember how these youths fought and risked their lives for you.

You can see Audi Ogada and others seated at the far-right end. Governor, they claim you forgot about them when you were a minister and now as the Governor of Siaya.

Kindly, find a place in your heart and reconnect with this team. They were very valuable in your struggle,”** he said.

Owen reminded Orengo how several youths were arrested and detained during the Mageuzi movement, which he spearheaded, and that the majority of them have never been employed despite the change in political fortunes.

Audi was one of the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga’s security team and chose to stand with Orengo against Raila Odinga during the fight over the leadership of Ford-K.

Audi has remained in Ford-K even after Raila and Orengo defected to other parties and eventually converged at the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).

Audi said he is a change and human rights crusader and is not bitter with Orengo for failing to recognise his contribution to his political struggle.

“I have not had an opportunity to speak with Orengo about the past. I gave myself to the struggle, and I remain committed to championing human rights. It is incumbent upon him to choose what is best for him. We did our part, and the rest we leave to God,” he said.

Orengo acknowledged the contributions of his team and shared the experiences they endured during the struggle.

“The youths played an important role in the struggle. Whenever they were arrested, I would offer free legal services. It was a selfless battle, and they played a significant role in the fight,” he said.

KWS launches the National Single Species Action Plan for the Grey Crowned Crane

By
-
0

By Sandra Blessing

The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has launched the National Single Species Action Plan for the Grey Crowned Crane (2024–2035).

The strategic roadmap aims to protect the endangered bird, alongside the recognition of students who excelled in the #WorldWildlifeDay2025 essay competition, showcasing youth engagement in conservation advocacy.

The strategic plan was launched at Kiborgoch Wildlife Wetlands and Community Conservancy in Marigat, Baringo County, where leaders, conservationists, and local communities gathered to commemorate the 2025 World Wildlife Day under the theme “Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet.”

The celebrations coincided with the 50th anniversary of the United Nations Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), a critical global agreement to regulate wildlife trade and prevent species extinction.

Present were the Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Rebecca Miano, the Principal Secretary for the State Department for Wildlife, Silvia Museiya, Baringo Governor Benjamin Chesire Cheboi, KWS Director General Prof. Erustus Kanga, among others.

The event highlighted Kenya’s dedication to safeguarding its wildlife heritage while advancing sustainable development.

Miano reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to treating wildlife as a “national treasure,” emphasising its vital role in driving economic growth through tourism, agriculture, and ecosystem services.

She said conservation aligns with Kenya’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) and Vision 2030, ensuring that natural resources benefit present and future generations.

Cheboi said there was a need for community-led conservation efforts, advocating for stronger financing mechanisms, climate resilience strategies, and sustainable tourism models to uplift local livelihoods.

Prof. Kanga acknowledged the importance of grassroots initiatives such as the Ilchamus Community Conservation Group for their work in restoring degraded ecosystems, creating eco-tourism opportunities, and demonstrating how wildlife conservation can fuel economic progress.

He highlighted ongoing #WorldWildlifeDay2025 activities across Kenya’s conservancies, calling for national unity in protecting biodiversity.

Local leaders called for urgent action to address challenges such as delayed compensation for human-wildlife conflicts, inadequate tourism infrastructure, and climate change impacts threatening both communities and ecosystems.

Kenya’s wildlife remains a cornerstone of her cultural identity, ecological balance, and economic prosperity. By integrating conservation into national development frameworks such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Kenya continues to champion a future where people and wildlife thrive together.

As stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment, the celebrations underscored a collective resolve to invest in innovative financing, climate action, and community empowerment—ensuring a legacy of thriving biodiversity for generations to come.

Mudavadi Key reforms underway to strengthen the TVETs

By
-
0

By OPCS Press Service.

The government is upgrading and modernizing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions to enhance their capability and relevance in responding to manpower needs in the country.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has said TVETS must build skilled, adaptable and innovative workforce ready to meet the demands of the industries and job market.

He said the government is in the process of undertaking progressive reforms to realize the productivity of TVETS.

“As part of the reforms, the Cabinet approved the dual training policy, which formalizes integration of theoretical learning and hands-on training in industries,” he said.

“This historic decision is a game changer since it will ensure that trainees, who have been constrained by skills mismatch with the needs of our industries, can now graduate with cutting edge skills for entrepreneurship or local and international labour markets,” he added.

He said policies and programs are being rolled out to grow and develop the TVET sector, to produce skills that will support Kenya’s priority sectors and enhance its global competitiveness.

Mudavadi was speaking when he presided over the 1st graduation ceremony for Kaiboi National Polytechnic in Nandi.

He said the reforms focus on enhancing the quality of education and training, improving access to TVET programs, and ensuring that what is taught in these institutions directly addresses the needs of the labour market.

Mudavadi said the government has also set up a policy framework that will enable the TVET institutions to fully implement the robust Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) curriculum that was rolled out in September 2023.

The training focuses on practical skills and outcomes that ensure TVET trainees are knowledgeable and highly skilled in the areas most needed by industries.

“The Government has further made substantial investments in upgrading of TVET institutions’ infrastructure, including providing modern equipment and learning tools. It has also enhanced investments in the training and development of TVET instructors, particularly in new technologies and methodologies.” said Mudavadi.

“We have recently recruited 2,000 trainers to bridge the trainer deficit in the TVET sector, while enhancement of the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) framework has formalized the competencies of artisans who have gained skills through work experience or informal learning.” he added.

Mudavadi appreciated the significant strides made in reforming the TVET sector to ensure it is aligned with global trends, industry standards and the needs of the global growing workforce.

Mudavadi, also the cabinet secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, further reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to enhance the contribution of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector to economic and social development.

The first graduation ceremony of Kaiboi National Polytechnic since it was upgraded from a technical training institute last year saw the first 1,614 graduands celebrate with various accomplishments in artisan, craft and diploma categories.

“We recognize you for your hard work, dedication and achievements. Your graduation marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of new, exciting opportunities ahead that will shape your future.” landed Mudavadi.

Mudavadi also challenged the management of the institution led by Principal Tony Abdi, to remain focused as they have a great opportunity to position the institution in Kenya’s socioeconomic transformation journey by developing mutually beneficial linkages with local communities and industries

ENDS

Auditor General-How Counties splash millions on legal services as privet law firms reap big.

By
-
0

By Habil Onyango
 
It has now emerged that a number of private law firms have been minting millions of Shillings from the county governments for various legal services.

This happens despite the Counties having in place properly constituted County Attorney’s Offices which have the capability of handling some of the cases.

Some of the court cases which have led to legal battles between the County Executive and various entities include unprocedural termination of employment contracts, disputes of unpaid claims of goods, works or services completed by contractors, irregular procurement processes and poor contract management among others.

According to the Auditor General’s 2023/24 Financial Year report, a number of counties spend millions of Shillings in contracting external advocates to represent them in the court of law in some cases.

According to Nancy Gathungu Counties could not account for millions of Shillings used in the legal battles which some might have been avoided by honouring court rulings.

Some were caused by irregular legal service payments, unsupported provision of legal services unsupported legal fees, irregular engagement of consultants for legal services unsupported payments of legal expenses among others.

For instance in the year under review, analysis of legal fees for Nairobi County reveals that four advocates, out of the pending legal cases are owed a total of Sh.6,269,546,657.00 which is 29 per cent of the total pending legal fees of Sh.21,371,004,293.00 (11 per cent of the County executives’ pending bills).

In Nandi County, the Management allocated Sh.36,820,030.00 for the outsourcing of legal services.

“It was not clear why the service which could have been discharged by the Office of the County Attorney was outsourced,” reads the AG’s report.

Homa Bay paid Sh.11,001,075.00 as legal fees to various firms for representing the County Executive in various legal disputes or court cases during the year under review.

However, records obtained from the Homa Bay Law offices indicate that there were 350 Court cases against the County Executive where some were still ongoing and others still pending before the courts dating back to the year 2020.

Details of the court cases such as the subject matter, case files, periods taken to complete the cases, fee notes and financial complications that such cases may have on the Executive were not provided for audit.
Furthermore, all the 350 Court cases were being handled by external law firms even though the County executive has a County legal unit with relevant human resources.

“No satisfactory explanation was given for outsourcing of legal sources,” reads the report.
In Siaya County out of the Sh.34,662,766.00 allocation for legal fees, Sh. 26 million was paid to a firm of advocates for an out of court settlements.

However, the details of the case and how the amount was arrived at was not provided for an audit.
Further an amount of Sh. 4,060,000.00 was paid to an advocate in a civil case between the County Public Service Board and former employees.

In addition, the County Executive had pending bills relating to decretal fees totalling to Sh.33,177,621.

“In circumstances, the completeness, occurrences and accuracy of legal fees amounting to Sh.34,662,766.00 could not be confirmed,” concluded the AG.

Kisumu County Executive paid Sh.46,078,251.00 to legal firms representing the executives in various legal cases and providing legal consultancy under the year of review.

However, a number of Anomalies which included expenditure amounting to Sh.22,496,355.00 not supported with documents such as a list of pending legal cases, outstanding legal fees and fees paid up to date per cases, contract agreement, procurement records, stage of proceedings or each case, breakdown of legal fees in feed notes and evidence of court attendance were noted.

Rate per advocate remuneration toll, statement or ledgers of advocates’ accounts and case files showing the value of each case was not provided.

According to the report, the Management paid Sh. 3 million to a legal firm as part of decretal fees, however certified decree and the current status of the legal cases were not provided for audit despite lack of approval by the Executive to engage legal consultants.

The same legal firm was paid Sh.5,570,979.00 for a court decree in a matter of citing the Executive Member and Chief Officer for Finance in contempt in disobeying a court order.

“No justification or explanation was provided for failure to abide by the court orders which resulted to the wasteful expenditure,” reads the report.

The report further reveals that Kisumu County Management made a payment of Sh14.2million to a legal firm for an outstanding decretal debt however, details and current status of the debt and acknowledgement for payment were not provided for the audit.

The management further made a payment of Sh3 million to a law firm for representing the Executive in claim of contempt of court order for payment of Sh.377,873,193.00.

“The interim fee note dated December 12,2022 amounted to Sh6,793,496.00 however details for payment of Sh.377,873,193 were not provided for audit.”

“Furthermore the amount of Sh345millionpaid was wasteful expenditure as it was avoidable,” reads the report

In Migori County, a total of Sh.50,326,213.00 was utilized for payment of legal services.

However, the fee notes provided for audit did not indicate the nature of work done for the amount claimed.

“In the circumstances, the accuracy and completeness of legal services amounting to Sh.50,326,213.00 could not be confirmed.

The Kilifi County Government paid Sh.71,571,803.00 to six legal practitioners who represented the Executive in various legal cases by providing legal consultancy services and also as a payment to a firm that sued the County for a breach of contract.

The County Government of Tana River paid Sh.30,703,120.00 to four legal firms which represented the Executive in various legal cases.

The expenditure, however, was not supported by the approvals of the Executive Committee and recommendations from the County Attorney.

Mombasa County Government used Sh.67,525,793.00 for payment of legal fees for various cases against the Executive where it was revealed the County’s liability continued to increase due to failure to honour the court rulings.

The Nakuru County Executive made payments of Sh.22,643,700.00in respect of legal fees for six law firms
However, the documents such as how the law firms were identified, signed services level agreements, certificates of appointments, evidence of court attendance, fee notes and monthly payment reports from each law firm in respect to each case were not provided for audit.

“Despite the County Executive recruiting its own County Attorney the privet law firms were engaged to represent the Executive in court cases without the approval of the County Executive Committee contrary to section 16 (1) of the office of the County Attorney 2020,” revealed Gathungu.

Busia County Offices of the County Attorney was found to have engaged services of privet law firms during the year under review at a cost of Sh.8,546,000.00, while the office of the Attorney of Busia also engaged law firms through direct tendering to handle 24 cases.

Narok County could not account for unsupported fees of Sh.27,614,165.00 it paid Sh364,996,746.00 I’m resected to legal fees.

According to the report the expenditure exceeded the budgeted amount of Sh.337,382,165.00 resulting to the difference.

Interestingly, in Kisii, it was noted that the County Attorney irregularly earned Sh.3,384,632.00 between January 2024 to August 2024 after the Employment and Labour Relations Court in Kisumu quashed his appointment.

This is after a private citizen proceeded to the court to contest his employment where he filed a petition

Kisumu Residents Support Raila’s Political Move to Unite the Country

By
-
0

By John Ochieng

Residents of Kisumu County have urged Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Raila Odinga to engage more people in his consultations on the next political move.

At a press conference in Kisumu on Sunday, the leaders assured Raila of their support in his political move with President William Ruto to unite the country.

A spokesperson, Mr Job Mandela, said they back Raila in his political pursuit but urged him to consider engaging religious groups, civil society, and the youth.

Mandela stated that the consultations should not be confined to the ODM party alone, as the majority of Kenyans support the initiative.

“Raila is consulting on our behalf, and we already support the same course. We want him to reach out to more people,” he said.

He emphasised that Raila should not succumb to intimidation or coercion but should instead focus on strengthening the relationship with the Kenya Kwanza government.

“Let no politician, especially those in the ODM party, derail this process. We want this process to be concluded as quickly as possible so that we can be part of the government,” said Mandela.

He warned former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka against interfering with Raila, urging them to allow him to lead ODM party supporters into government.

Joe Obuya cautioned Raila not to fall for the carrot being dangled before him by some politicians ahead of the 2027 General Election.

“That carrot is laced with poison—don’t go for it. It is still fresh in our minds how you were duped in the 2002 General Election,” he said.

“We want to affirm to Raila that he has our mandate—the 6 million-plus who voted for him in 2022—to negotiate on our behalf,” he added.

Businesswoman Lilian Onyango said they were waiting to see the signing of documents cementing the relationship.

“I support the ongoing consultations. I want Baba (Raila) to work closely with President Ruto for the sake of unity and peace in this country,” she said.

In recent weeks, Raila has been travelling across Nyanza counties, consulting different stakeholders over his planned move to work with President Ruto.

Empowering the Girl Child: A Path to Reducing Prostitution from the Streets of Kisumu

By
-
0

Dr. Edris N. Omondi (Advocate)

attorneyedris@ywcg.org

Anyango not her real name, is part of my program at the Centre for Prisons Reforms and Crime Prevention International. At 16, her formal education was disrupted having been a victim of sexual abuse. Growing up as an orphan, she was totally dependent on her foster parents. As fate has it, she is now a teenage ‘child’ mother-flew from her home because of stigma associated with early pregnancy. We found her on the streets of Kondele drunk, enslaved into hawking her body for as little as 20 shillings a night-oblivious of insecurity that comes with darkness and a dark world, STDs and worse of all-HIV/AIDs.

This is the sad reality, a scenario not far from the comforts of our back yards and environs. Most victims are from the slums- and the underlying issues is associated with desperate times.

Statistics of Single Mothers Below 30 and Their Connection to Prostitution

According to data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), more than 60% of single mothers in Kenya are under the age of 30. These young mothers are often vulnerable to economic hardship and lack of social support. With limited education and job opportunities, many turn to prostitution as a means of survival.

In Kisumu, areas like Kondele, Obunga, Manyatta, and Nyalenda have higher rates of teenage pregnancies and young single mothers. These mothers often face stigmatization, poverty, and a lack of adequate social services. Without viable alternatives, some resort to prostitution to provide for their children. Studies have shown that education and skills training are key factors in reducing the likelihood of young women entering prostitution.

Perspective of Empowerment other than condemnation.

Prostitution is a serious social issue that continues to affect many communities around our country. In Kisumu, one of Kenya’s fastest-growing urban centers, prostitution has become a visible challenge, particularly in red-light area of Kondele, around Kisumu bus park area and the adjacent areas around Taifa Park among other areas.

Poverty, lack of education, and limited job opportunities drive many young women into the trade. However, we must look at this issue from a perspective of empowerment rather than punishment. Through a concerted effort in girl child empowerment, we can break the cycle of poverty, crime, and exploitation.

Poverty is often cited as the driving force behind many girls turning to prostitution. For many young women under the age of 30, especially single mothers, prostitution seems like a way to survive and care for their families. It’s not an easy life, but it becomes a coping mechanism in the face of limited options. The solution lies in empowering these girls, providing them with education, vocational skills, and alternative means of livelihood, while also establishing a supportive environment for their emotional and mental well-being.

Global Examples of Girl Child Empowerment -Tackling Prostitution

Across the world, numerous initiatives have proven that empowering girls through education and vocational skills is the key to lifting them out of vulnerable circumstances, including prostitution.

In Thailand the Mirror Foundation has been working for decades to rehabilitate young women and children involved in prostitution. Their approach focuses on providing shelter, education, counseling, and vocational training, all while aiming to change the social and cultural environments that perpetuate the trade. By addressing the root causes, they offer girls a chance to build a future without resorting to sex work.

In India where I spent half of my college life, the Sampurna Project, run by NGOs like Apne Aap Women Worldwide, provides a comprehensive approach to eliminating prostitution in communities. The project includes providing education, skill-building workshops, healthcare, and legal aid. The focus is on empowering women to make choices about their own futures while simultaneously working to reduce stigma.

These examples show that with the right resources and support systems, girls in vulnerable situations can be empowered to build brighter futures without resorting to prostitution.

Addressing the Issue in Kisumu: Legislation and Local Initiatives

Whereas, we have local organizations like Bethzatha HIV/AIDS Resource Centre, at Korowe that are initiating programs dealing with young people to reduce the spread of HIV/AIDS and address issues of sexual exploitation, the County Government can play a pivotal role in addressing the issue of prostitution by creating and enforcing legislation aimed at protecting young girls and women. The following actions can help:

1. Enforcement of Laws Against Human Trafficking and Exploitation: Kisumu can introduce bi-laws that focus on combating human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and prostitution. This could complement the penal code that prohibits living on the earning of prostitution and soliciting or importuning for immoral purposes. Stringent penalties can be put in place for those who exploit women, as well as measures to support victims of sexual abuse and exploitation, such as providing shelters and rehabilitation services for them.

2. Regulation of Red-Light Areas: Instead of turning a blind eye to the existence of red-light areas, the city of Kisumu can regulate these zones with the aim of dismantling them through systematic social and economic interventions. This could include providing alternative housing and employment for those currently working in these areas, helping them transition to a safer and more dignified life.

3. Local Constituency Development Funds (CDF) Utilization: The Constituency Development Funds (CDF), which are aimed at improving local infrastructure and social welfare, can be effectively used to support girl child empowerment programs in Kisumu. For instance, CDF can fund the following:

  1. Education and Vocational Training Centers: Establishing or supporting existing institutions that offer educational and vocational training programs for young girls who have dropped out of school or are at risk of exploitation.
  1. Scholarships for Girls: Offering scholarships for secondary and tertiary education to girls in marginalized communities. This helps girls access education, which in turn reduces their likelihood of falling into prostitution.
  1. Public Health Initiatives: Investing in health programs aimed at educating girls on sexual and reproductive health, HIV/AIDS prevention, and their rights.

4. Public Awareness Campaigns: A well-coordinated awareness campaign that addresses the dangers of prostitution and the importance of education and self-reliance could be funded through the CDF and in partnership with other community-based players. These campaigns could target young girls, their families, and the wider community, focusing on breaking the stigma associated with those involved in prostitution and promoting alternatives.

Adult Learning Programs for Drop-Out Girls

Many girls drop out of school for various reasons—teenage pregnancy, financial constraints, or early marriages. Organizations such as Capacity Training Insititute (CTI) and Gates Africa Training Centre (GATC) which are TVET certified adult learning programs would be an essential step in providing these girls with a second chance at education and vocational training. These programs offer both part-time or full-time flexibility, accommodate young mothers or those who are financially burdened.

The Role of Religious Bodies

Religious institutions in Kisumu, as elsewhere, can play a significant role in addressing the issue of prostitution. Churches, mosques, and other faith-based organizations can support efforts by:

  1. Providing safe spaces for women and girls to receive counseling and rehabilitation.
  1. Offering vocational training and microfinance support for those who want to start small businesses.
  1. Working alongside local government bodies and NGOs to create a supportive environment that empowers young girls to make positive life choices.

Religious bodies can also provide moral guidance and help reduce the stigma around prostitution, creating a more inclusive and supportive community for those who wish to leave the trade.

Conclusion

Reducing prostitution in Kisumu requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses the root causes: poverty, lack of education, and gender inequality. Empowering the girl child through education, vocational training, and social support programs will go a long way in breaking the cycle of exploitation and empowering these young women to create better futures for themselves. Collaboration between the County Government, NGOs, religious organizations, and the private sector is key to creating sustainable change. By investing in the next generation of girls, we can ensure that they are not driven to prostitution, but instead are equipped to thrive in a world full of opportunities.

Tourism Fund Calls for 2% Levy Compliance to Boost Sector Growth

By
-
0

By Western Insight Reporter

The management of the hospitality industry in the country has been urged to comply with the 2 per cent tourism levy to foster sector growth amid reports of a tourism rebound, with more pilgrims visiting Kenya.

Tourism Fund (TF), Board of Trustees, led by Chairman Mr Samson Some, emphasised this call during the 12th Tourism Fund Upskilling Graduation Ceremony in the coastal region at the weekend.

He disclosed that compliance is vital for financing sector activities and significantly boosting the national economy.

“We want you to comply and pay the levy, which is also ploughed back into capacity-building for your untrained staff and certifying them to boost efficient service delivery and attract more clients,” advised Some.

He was happy that many hospitality industry investors were already paying the compulsory levy, while others were in arrears running into millions of shillings and were yet to comply. He urged all to pay the levy promptly, as the law stipulates.

“Our President has assured us that the coast is rich in unique features, cultural heritage, and diverse experiences, promising that tourists will find plenty to explore here. Let’s comply and pay the 2 per cent levy to boost the sector’s services and growth,” said Some.

Recent tourism arrival statistics showcase the positive impact of this promise, with over 3,000 visitors recorded in recent weeks from overseas in Mombasa.

“This surge presents an exciting opportunity for the hospitality industry,” said the Board of Trustees Chair.

In response, the Tourism Fund is committed to training more hospitality workers and enhancing service delivery to attract both domestic and international visitors.

“This influx of tourists is not just a boon for our region; it creates a ripple effect that benefits local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and various service providers,” Some explained.

He asserted, “The growing demand for services and accommodations is driving job creation and fuelling economic growth.”

However, Some acknowledged the challenges that accompany this growth.

“With the rise in visitors comes an urgent need for a highly skilled workforce to meet their evolving expectations,” he stated, underscoring the crucial role of the Tourism Fund in capacity-building initiatives.

The Fund focuses specifically on training individuals in the sector who lack formal certifications.

Through comprehensive training and certification programmes, the Fund is empowering workers to deliver world-class services.

Orengo Fails to Read Raila’s Script and Patterns as Cooperation with President Ruto Nears

By
-
0

By Anderson Ojwang

Despite Siaya Governor James Orengo being in the kitchen cabinet and a close confidant of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, he is yet to understand, comprehend, and actualise the scripts and patterns of his party leader’s politics.

While Orengo still believes in the old brand of politics—activism, attack, criticism, confrontation, and playing hardball—his boss moved away from that style of politics in 1997 when he entered into cooperation with the then President, the late Daniel Arap Moi.

Raila changed his approach from confrontation, activism, and hardball tactics to negotiation, dialogue, compromise, and cooperation, which have characterised his politics in recent years.

That is why Orengo is currently becoming a lone voice in the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), opposing the emerging cooperation between Ruto and Raila.

Upon his return from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where he failed to win the African Union Commission Chairman seat, Raila met President Ruto in Mombasa. He later flew to Kisumu, where he held a consultative meeting with the region’s leadership.

Raila subsequently held a series of meetings in Migori, Homa Bay, and Migori counties. Last Friday, he convened a consultative meeting with all ODM members from Western Kenya in Busia.

Before Raila embarked on his campaign for the AU seat, he had entered into a broad-based government in which senior ODM leaders—John Mbadi, Hassan Ali Joho, Opiyo Wandayi, and Wycliffe Oparanya—were all appointed as cabinet secretaries.

At a funeral in Siaya over the weekend, Alego MP Sam Atandi, who spoke before Orengo arrived, said the ongoing consultations would eventually lead to President Ruto working with Raila.

“We have known our friends and enemies. We support Raila in his consultative meetings, and we are convinced we are going to work with President Ruto to ensure peace prevails in the country.

Those who oppose this proposed move are doing so for their own interests. We support Raila’s decision to consult before making his next move.

Raila has promised me something significant in this new arrangement, and I know my people of Alego support it,” he said.

However, Orengo, who also spoke at the funeral, cautioned the ODM and the Luo community against rushing into political arrangements without considering other dynamics at play.

“I am a veteran politician. I was there during the late Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, Moi, the late Mwai Kibaki, Uhuru Kenyatta, and now the current administration. I have a wealth of experience, and you should listen to me.

We must not rush into any political arrangements. We must hold consultations and consider various emerging dynamics.

When you see some people in a hurry to actualise this, be very worried. I want to warn you, my people—let us not be in a hurry. Hurry-hurry has no blessings.

I am also a senior member of the party, and at some point, they will listen to me. I am concerned about the speed and the interests some people have in these negotiations,” he said.

However, the Chairman of the Luo Council of Elders, Mzee Odungi Randa, welcomed the weekend’s declaration by the Duond Luo Nairobi chapter, which expressed support for Raila and Ruto’s cooperation.

“Next week, after various branches of my outfit have declared their stand, my executive will issue a statement on the matter. I am still waiting for branches like Busia, Kitale, Bungoma, and Nakuru, among others, to make their positions clear.

We support the engagement Raila and Ruto have undertaken, and we support their political arrangements.

I will issue a substantive statement this coming week. We support the ongoing consultations,” he said in a telephone interview.

Recently, the MCAs, led by the Leader of the Majority in the Siaya Assembly, Mr Edwin Martin Otieno, criticised a section of Nyanza leaders who oppose President Ruto.

“Ruto supported Raila to become Prime Minister. Currently, he has appointed some of our leaders into the government. It is unfortunate that some leaders want to bring village politics to undermine the development we are witnessing. We must call them out,” he said.

Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has consistently stated in recent functions that the party was right to work with the government and that they would not engage in street demonstrations or demonise the government.

“This time, as a community, we are not going to the streets. We are supporting the government of the day to deliver on its mandate.

We will support the leader who wants to unite Kenya and distribute the national cake equitably.

It is time we focused on development and took advantage of the opportunities the government is bringing our way. We have been marginalised for a long time,” she said.

Mbadi and Wandayi have also maintained that the party and the community support the government of the day in delivering on its mandate to the people.

“As it stands, we now know our friends and enemies. If you walk with our enemies, we will treat you in the same manner.

We now know who our genuine friends are and those who do not mean well for us.

I want you to know that we are in ODM. I am a senior member of ODM. So wherever ODM issues are being discussed, I am also in attendance,” Wandayi recently said.

Why Kenya Needs a State Department for Efficiency

By
-
0
Billy Mijungu

By Billy Mijungu

The recently released report by the Controller of Budget has laid bare a disturbing reality. Between July 2024 and February 2025, national and county governments withdrew 1.3 trillion shillings manually instead of using the automated system.

These are imprests, often prone to abuse, mismanagement, and outright theft. This revelation only scratches the surface of Kenya’s deeper financial problem, an expenditure crisis.

For years, we have been told that Kenya has a revenue problem. That narrative has been used to justify aggressive tax measures that have burdened businesses and households. However, the truth is now evident. We do not have a revenue problem.

We have an expenditure problem. Our public funds are being wasted through unnecessary domestic subsistence allowances, excessive per diems, inflated salaries, and inefficient revenue collection by county governments. Money is being stolen at an alarming rate, while development projects are left underfunded.
It is not that we lack money for development.

In fact, our development budget absorption level is remarkably low. The government has more money than it can spend efficiently. Instead of directing funds towards critical infrastructure, social services, and economic growth projects, billions are being lost through poor financial management.

Worse still, the country is under the heavy strain of debt. Yet, if we streamlined our expenditure, Kenya could easily service its debts and clear them within five years.
The National Treasury must take decisive action.

The Controller of Budget’s report should serve as a wake up call. We need urgent measures to tighten controls on government spending. One of the most effective solutions would be to revive and strengthen the Efficiency Monitoring Unit. However, this time, it should not be a passive entity issuing reports that gather dust in government offices. It should be a fully fledged State Department for Efficiency.

This department, referred to as SDE, should have a Principal Secretary who reports directly to the President. It should be empowered to oversee and audit government spending across all ministries and county governments. Every accounting officer should be required to report their expenditure to this office, ensuring that every shilling is used efficiently.

The role of SDE would be clear—to curb wasteful expenditure and redirect resources towards productive use. It should have the authority to halt unnecessary spending, question dubious transactions, and demand accountability from government institutions. Every shilling saved from wasteful expenditure is a shilling that can be used to build roads, equip hospitals, educate children, and develop the economy.

SDE should also ensure that county governments maximize the collection of their own source revenues. Counties must account for every coin generated and collected. More importantly, county governments should adopt a financial discipline model where their own revenues are the first charge for recurrent expenditures.

This would reduce overreliance on the national government and promote financial sustainability at the county level.
If Kenya is to break free from the cycle of debt and underdevelopment, we must take a firm stand against financial inefficiency. The government must prioritize fiscal discipline, and a State Department for Efficiency would be the perfect tool to achieve this.

The time for action is now. The President and the National Treasury must move swiftly to implement measures that ensure taxpayers’ money is used for the benefit of the nation, not for the enrichment of a few. Kenyans deserve a government that spends wisely and delivers results.

How a Forced Marriage of a 14-Year-Old Visually Impaired Pupil Motivated a Teacher to Start an Organisation for PLWDs

By
-
0

By Anderson Ojwang

Ndhiwa Sub County in Homa Bay County, Kenya, has high rates of early marriage and teenage pregnancy. Reports of forced marriages and defilement of minors are common vices in the region.

For teacher Caroline Kisuge, once a teacher in the area, it was painful to see the future of a bright girl, who suffered from visual impairment, cut short when she was married off at the age of 14.

“I went back for training at the Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) for special needs training. I had developed a strong bond with my pupil and facilitated her learning.

I had a visually impaired girl in my class. I wasn’t able to read Braille or transcribe her work. She was very bright but depended on one officer covering a wide area, who would only come after a fortnight for a few hours.

The girl ended up dropping out of school, and when I followed up, I found out she had been married.

I felt she was wasted, considering how bright she was. If it were today, I would have placed her in a school for the visually impaired so she could fully benefit. It’s sad that I can’t trace Millicent, but her case haunts me to this day,” she says.

However, Millicent’s predicament ignited Kisuge’s desire to help persons living with disabilities. After completing her training as a special needs teacher in Autism Spectrum Disorders, she founded the Jonathan Rays of Hope organisation, focusing on advocacy and empowerment of PLWDs (Persons Living with Disabilities) through Neurodiversity Mashinani.

Kisuge is also a consultant on Autism matters and an award-winning champion of disability rights. She has been recognised by the Diar Awards for her work in promoting inclusion for PLWDs.

“Autism Spectrum Disorders are lifelong neurological developmental conditions that affect communication, social skills, and the way a child interacts with the environment and objects. The severity varies from mild to profound, and symptoms become evident by the age of three.

During training, we visited several special schools as part of our orientation. Some trainees packed their bags and abandoned the course, saying they couldn’t handle the nursing aspect of it—the foul smells from children with drooling and bowel incontinence problems.

For me, I promised to do my best and started viewing life differently. I appreciated the children God gave me and stopped complaining.

It also helped me understand the stages of growth and development in my own children.

I learnt about individual differences and how to accommodate people with diverse needs.

I became more patient with life. I gained so much knowledge, and when I looked at my village, I promised to make disability matters visible in rural areas,” she says.

Kisuge believes that special needs training is essential not only for teachers but also for parents and anyone handling children at different levels in the community.

“My organisation started when I began visiting children from my classroom at home.

I realised they were going through so much. I rescued several children who needed medical attention and better nutrition, as well as those living in poor shelter conditions and suffering from neglect due to stigma associated with PLWDs.

I needed to rehabilitate them. I tried several orphanages, but they could only admit those who were independent.

This took a toll on me when I had to return them to the same conditions I had found them in,” she says.

For her work, Kisuge has received recognition, but she believes the greatest reward is changing and improving the lives of needy children.

“Yes, I received an award from the Diar Awards 6th edition as an Inclusion Champion for PLWDs. The process involved rigorous nominations and online voting, followed by a background check on my public performance.

We were awarded at a ceremony held in Nairobi. This year, my organisation has again been recognised by the same awards for championing PLWD inclusion as a community-based organisation (CBO),” she says.

Despite the harsh economic situation in the country, Kisuge is so selfless that she spares part of her salary and earnings to support the children under her organisation.

“I have a few well-wishers who support us, but mostly, I use my salary and earnings from consultancy work to run the rehabilitation and habilitation centre for abandoned and neglected PLWDs in rural areas.

I have spearheaded donation drives for assistive devices. I started by buying crutches and walking frames with my own money and donating them to those in need.

I also launched a wheelchair appeal and received support from well-wishers. The first case I encountered was from Gwassi, where a child with cerebral palsy had been placed in a sufuria (cooking pot) for 11 years because they lacked a wheelchair. The child couldn’t sit on a chair, so the pot was used to carry them around.

A friend supported the process, and we facilitated a solution for the mother.

I later partnered with Litein AIC Hospital and missionaries, who donated 31 wheelchairs in Mfangano Island last August. This year, we have donated 72 wheelchairs in Rusinga Island.

The First Lady of Migori County, Dr Agnes Ayacko, has also donated 200 wheelchairs from the Walkabout Foundation to support needy cases in the county.”

1...159160161...192Page 160 of 192