By Habil Onyango.

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has said that there is a need to strengthen devolution to benefit Kenyans.

Raila said that devolution which was brought against all odds where many people were opposed to it and many died for the course has not helped Kenyans.

“Devolution was brought against all odds, there are many people who were opposed to it, many people died as we fought to bring devolution to our country yet it has not worked or helped the people of Kenya,” said Raila.

“There is nothing wrong with the constitutional structure but only a few adjustments to make the devolution work,” said Raila.

“We want to see more resources being devolved to the Counties so that we can be able to deal with issues such as healthcare, infrastructural development which should be devolved,” he said.

“By doing this we will be able to see the resources going to the Counties rise to over 30 per cent to help our people,” he added.

Raila was speaking at the Governor’s Office after a consultative meeting with the ODM County delegates where he was hosted by Governor Glafys Wanga.

Raila at the same time revealed that the Country has been in a situation of conflict and there is an urgent need to find a solution to issues that are facing the country.

Raila said there is an urgent need to tackle the scourge of corruption and the emerging attitude of intolerance where people are being denied rights to engage, assemble and demonstrate.

Raila said that many have been abducted, confined for many days and some have even been murdered issues which are very worrying and must come to an end.

Raila also said that there is a need for equity in resource allocations to all counties within the nation.

“There is a need to deal with the scourge of ethnic discrimination and tribalism in the Country,” he said.

“We want to see men and women being given equal opportunities in every sector within the Country,” said Raila.

Raila said that there is a need to empower and give requisite knowledge and skills to the youths so that they can be productive.

“We must be in a position to enable our youths to access the Internet so that they can use it to create wealth through use of the Artificial Intelligence,” he said.

Raila called on Kenyans to remain united and speak in one voice as they tackle the challenges facing them.

“We have seen a lot of complaints in terms of service provision in health care, many patients are suffering beaches of the introduction of SHA, this is something that needs to be resolved so that our people can get proper medical attention,” said Raila.

“We have seen our Doctors, nurses, lecturers and students crying for various reasons, all these problems are solvable and we need to find a lasting solution to them,” said Raila.

The Homa Bay delegates however gave Raila a go-ahead with his mission to find a better formation for the party.

By Reporter

Kenya: President William Ruto conducted an inspection tour of the KETRACO 400kV/220kV Mariakani Substation in Kilifi County, which is a key component of the 400 kV Mombasa-Nairobi Transmission Line.

Mariakani Substation is financed through a partnership between the Government of Kenya and the African Development Bank, with a total cost of Shs. 3.9 billion. Out of this amount, the AfDB contributed USD 29,030,400.94, while the Government of Kenya provided Shs. 143,534,873.02. 

The 400 kV Mariakani-Isinya link will be completed in June 2025, marking a significant milestone in Kenya’s energy infrastructure development. 

The Transmission line begins at Mariakani in Kilifi County and extends to the 400 kV Isinya Substation in Kajiado County near Nairobi. 

The project aims to enhance transmission capacity between Mombasa and Nairobi, strengthening power supply, improving system reliability, and supporting industrial growth while expanding electricity access in the coastal region. 

 The initiative includes a 400/220kV substation equipped with four 200 MVA transformers at Isinya Substation and a 220/66kV 90MVA transformer at the existing Nairobi North Substation, financed by the World Bank (WB). 

The System Reinforcement Project is linked to the broader 220kV Nairobi Metropolitan Ring, further bolstering grid stability. 

The project also facilitates the activation of the 400 kV Mombasa-Nairobi Transmission Line, alongside the proposed 220/400 kV Mariakani Substation. 

“This substation is financed through a supplementary loan under the Ethiopia-Kenya Electricity Highway Project by the African Development Bank (AfDB), aimed at enhancing system reliability in the coastal region. Expected Benefits,” said the Managing Director Dr. Eng. John Mativo.

He said the energization of the 400 kV Mariakani-Isinya Transmission Line will significantly reduce dependence on costly diesel-powered generation in the coastal region. 

“The double-circuit line will efficiently transfer power between the Mombasa and Nairobi load centers, minimizing power losses and improving efficiency.

 Moreover, the project will enhance the quality and reliability of power supply in the Coast region and provide stable electricity to the Special Economic Zone in Dongo Kundu.

 Additionally, the importation of power from Ethiopia, combined with electricity from the Olkaria geothermal complex, is expected to lower the reliance on local generation in the Coast region, impacting bus voltages at key locations,” he said.

He said the 400 kV link’s charging capacity will address the challenge while ensuring the safe operation of the HVDC link. 

The MD said the 400 kV transmission line from Rabai to Nairobi via Mariakani was completed in 2017 and currently operates at a 220kV voltage level.

By Habil Onyango

Homa Bay County will now host this year’s 62nd Madaraka day celebrations at Raila Odinga Stadium in  Homa Bay Town Constituency and will be presided over by President William Ruto.

Initially, the County was set to host Mashujaa day after President  Ruto heeded to the County Governor Gladys Wanga’s plea to host the event during the County International Investment Conference which was held on February 27,2024.

This will be the first National celebration to be held in the County since the independence.

According to the Interior and  National Administration Permanent Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo, the decision was reached after a wider consultation between the National and County Governments.

“We had initially planned to host Mashujaa day in Homa Bay this year, but now it has become necessary that we host Madaraka day  in the town.

It has been a tradition under the administration of President Ruto  National celebrations be rotational across the Country,” said the PS.

“You all remember that under President William Ruto’s tenure, the first Madaraka day was held in Embu,  then Kericho, Bungoma, Kwale and finally this year’s it will be held in Homa Bay and next it supposed to take place in Kitui County,” added Omollo.

According to the PS, the  norm is to make sure that every part of the Country feels appreciated and also involved in the National celebrations.

He said this year’s celebration is themed around Blue economy and maritime.

According to Omollo, Homa Bay is best suited to host the celebration since it has 80 per cent Kenyan side of Lake Victoria.

The Ps was accompanied by Governor Wanga, Homa Bay Town MP Opondo Kaluma, Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura and County Commissioner Moses Lilan

Omollo however appealed to the Homa Bay residents particularly business community to take advantage of the opportunity to enhance their businesses and also to look at the potentials that the celebration will bring.

“There will be visitors from all parts of the Country and others from overseas and our people must take advantage of this to enhance their livelihoods,” he said.

During the inspection tour, the team visited the Kabunde Airstrip which is currently under renovation, the proposed Homa Bay County Headquarters at Kabunde which is expected to be officially commissioned by the President during the celebrations.

Wanga said it was a joy for the county to host the national event and urged the residents to explore and exploit the emerging business opportunities brought about by such events.

Wanga revealed that a number of big ships are expected to dock at the Homa Bay Pier which was under renovation at a cost of Sh600million to mark the day.

“We will have ships docking at the main pier which will showcase the vast potential and opportunities in the region,” she said.

The Kenya Ports Authority Managing Director William Ruto had announced the authority’s plans to launch a ferry service in the County.

The pier is currently under construction nearing completion and will feature a jetty access road, a ferry ramp, drainage systems and walkways.

Dr. Edris N. Omondi (Advocate)

attorneyedris@ywcg.org

In recent times, the state of our collective mental health has become of serious concern. A once close-knit society that cherished values as enshrined in our constitution and delved around the societal three magic words- I am Sorry-Forgive me and I love you, seems to be a distant mirage and lost before our very eyes. We have transitioned from giving our public transport seats to the elderly persons and physically challenged to ignoring or arguing expectant mothers out of a queue. The rise in online bullying and insults, political hatred, both physical and emotional mob justice has further amplified our deepening social malfunction. Even the recent death of the former IEBC chair has sparked more anger and jubilation than sympathy, reflecting a complex blend of emotions that highlight the mental health challenges we are currently facing as a nation.

We were a nation that was united through our football, celebrated our heroes and athletes, shared love in small gatherings like birthday parties, participated in ‘harambees’ to take our children to university, celebrated baby showers and new-borns’, and mourned in equal measure whether the departed soul was a friend or a villain.

The question we must ask ourselves is: how did we lose our sense of empathy, and how can we begin to restore the dignity, empathy, and respect that once defined us?

The Growing Crisis: What Are We Facing?

In the past, our communities thrived on respect, kindness, and unity. The loss of these core values is evident in the troubling rise of hate speech, political tribalism, and acts of violence, both on the streets and in the digital sphere. From the tragic instances of physical and emotional mob justice to the violent political disputes that have plagued our past, these challenges suggest that our societal fabric is fraying.

Social media, once hailed as a platform for connecting people, now often serves as a breeding ground for insults and destructive rhetoric, unfortunately we quietly celebrate this! The tendency to politicize even moments of national grief, such as the death of a prominent leader, shows how polarized our emotions have become. Instead of unity in mourning, we see an outpouring of anger and bitterness, in-dignifying our vey social fabric.

Best practices

While the current situation may seem bleak, there are tested best practices we can follow as a nation to restore our social fabric as we knew it, unity, and mental well-being in our society. Countries around the world have implemented strategies that have proven successful in fostering healthier, more empathetic communities. Here are some key practices we can adopt to improve our collective mental health:

1. Promote Mental Health Awareness

Countries like Canada and the UK have integrated mental health into their national health policies, recognizing the importance of emotional well-being. A similar approach here would help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage people to seek help when needed. Mental health education in schools, workplaces, and through media campaigns would go a long way in fostering a culture of well-being.

2. Strengthen Community Ties

A lack of strong community support structures has left many individuals feeling isolated and disconnected. Drawing inspiration from places like Japan and Scandinavia, where community-based programs thrive, we can start rebuilding local networks. Initiatives such as volunteer work, youth mentorship, and community activities can help foster connection and a sense of belonging, especially among the younger generation.

3. Tackle Hate Speech and Tribalism

The destructive impact of hate speech and tribalism is undeniable. We must look to nations like Germany, where laws regulating hate speech and promoting tolerance have been successful. In our context, implementing policies that promote media literacy and digital citizenship can help reduce harmful narratives in the public sphere. Furthermore, engaging political leaders to reduce political toxicity and promote unity over division can help reduce political violence and encourage cross-cultural understanding.

4. Empathy in Political Discourse

One of the key drivers of division in our society is the lack of empathy in political discourse. By following the example of countries like New Zealand, where political leaders consistently advocate for unity and respect, adhere to constitutionalism and the rule of law, can foster to a more empathetic political environment. Political leaders must model respectful dialogue and discourage hatred and divisiveness, especially during times of national crisis.

5. Adopt Alternative Justice Models and Empower Faith-Based Organizations.

Both physical and emotional mob justice is a stark indication of the breakdown of trust in law enforcement. Rather than focusing on punitive measures, models like restorative justice, used in countries like South Africa, could be explored within the context. Restorative justice emphasizes healing and reconciliation, focusing on repairing harm and restoring relationships between offenders and victims. Faith-based organizations can be roped in through this process and by empowering communities to engage in restorative practices, we can reduce violence and build stronger, more resilient communities.

6. Empowerment Through Education

Education is a powerful tool for societal transformation. Countries like Finland have integrated emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and non-violence training into their educational systems with great success. By teaching these values from an early age, we can instil a sense of empathy and respect in the next generation, paving the way for a more compassionate society.

7. Collaborative National Efforts

A national conversation about our shared values and the future we want to build is essential. Countries like South Africa have used truth and reconciliation processes to heal national wounds. A similar initiative could be introduced here, bringing together citizens from diverse communities to discuss issues of trust, unity, and healing.

Pathways to Healing: A National Unity & Mental Health Initiative

The solution to healing our nation lies in a comprehensive national initiative that combines mental health awareness, unity-building programs, stronger regulatory frameworks, and the active involvement of all sectors of society. We need a National Unity and Mental Health Initiative (NUMHI), spearheaded by a coalition of government bodies, civil society organizations, and key institutions like the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), Ministry of Health, and Ministry of Education.

This initiative would focus on:

1. Mental health education and support at all levels, from schools to workplaces, ensuring that emotional well-being is prioritized.

2. Community-driven programs that revive traditional values of respect, empathy, and care.

3. Stronger legal frameworks for social media platforms to prevent the spread of hate speech while protecting free expression.

4. National dialogues and inter-community initiatives, fostering unity, understanding, and reconciliation among different groups.

With a united effort and focused collaboration, this initiative could provide the foundation for a healthier, more connected, and harmonious society. We are all called to do good, and by embracing these solutions, we can restore the moral and mental well-being of our nation.

Together, we can build a society where kindness, empathy, and peace are the norms, ensuring a prosperous future for all.

A Call to Action: We Must Choose the Path of Good It is time for us to heal as a society, to restore the values that once held us together, and to build a future where mental well-being, kindness, and unity are at the forefront of our national identity. The journey will be long, but if we work together, we can transform our country into a place where every individual feels valued, respected, and supported, not only transitioned generation like the Gen-Z, but, from Baby boomers to Gen-Alpha.

By Anderson Ojwang       

 Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua can aptly be said to be walking in the footsteps of Kenya’s first vice President the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.

Just like Jaramogi, who served under Kenyatta for two years before he resigned as Vice President, Kanu and a member of Parliament cited frustrations.

 Rigathi was also impeached two years in the office following allegations of propagating tribalism and alleged abuse of office.

Jaramogi founded Kenya’s People Union (KPU) that he had hoped to force a mini election  after he had anticipated majority of his supporters would resign from the parliament.

Jaramogi’s Nyanza became his solid political block and  locked the founding President Mzee Jomo Kenyatta from Nyanza, intense ethnic rivalry ,tension and mistrust became part and parcel of the Lake and the Murima.

Currently, the same template is being replayed in the country with two different characters, President William Ruto and Rigathi.

Rigathi has gone to fence off the Mountain from President Ruto and presently, he has managed to lock the president from Murima and his vast political fortunes in the region have continued to dwindle.

The old pattern, between Kenyatta and Odinga is replaying itself, with the Valley and the Murima developing rivalry and mistrust. Rigathi has also announced that in May this year, he will unveil a new party for Murima and that UDA party was a shell and dead in the region.

Just like Odinga built his dynasty in Nyanza, Rigathi is out to build his own power base in Murima and currently is seen as the king.

“ The entire Mountain left with me and followed me to Wamunyoro. I am their leader and Ruto cannot take that away, We will be king or king maker and there is nothing wrong about that,” he said.

The Murima has remained a constant in all the two major unfolding political scenario which continues to shape the country’s political landscape.

In a KTN television Interview, Rigathi said “ When I left the office, the people of my region felt that we needed to consult on the way forward because as a community we felt very bad.

The community felt totally misused by president Ruto, they felt deceived and we needed to consult extensively. As their leader they asked me to do that consultation,” he said.

Rigathi is mastering Raila’s scheme and now is preparing his supporters in the parliament, senate and county assembly to resign and seek re-election to elevate the party and himself ahead of the 2027 elections.

“Our political party is ready and for some strategic reasons, we did not want to unveil it until May. One of the reasons was, we wanted the Independent  Election and Boundary Commission (IEBC) to be constituted.

This was because quite a number of our senators and members of parliament want to resign from UDA and join our new party and go for by-elections.

My people thought for us to get the right momentum , it is better for us to launch the party when IEBC is in place. I have got quite a number of people who are through with UDA.

They do not want anything to do with UDA especially from the Mountain, because the whole Mountain has moved from UDA. By the way, UDA now is a shell. Without Riggy, there is no UDA in the mountain, There is no party there.

You realize even MPs who move around with the President, they do not even talk about UDA and even the president they don’t mention him on the ground.

We decided to wait for IEBC to be constituted and we will have several by-elections. As of today, we have 139 members of the county Assembly  (MCAS) who want to resign from UDA and go for by-elections.

 We are going to force a little mini-general election after IEBC is constituted. Because our people do not want to live a lie. The mountain, people are honest, and people of integrity. When they are through with something, they are through.

They will repeat what Raila Odinga did in 1994, and I admire Raila Odinga, he left Ford Kenya and went  NDP, resigned and was elected and since that time, his career has been rosy.

I am encouraging my MCAs, MPs and senators the ones who make that very brave decision, I want to assure them that the way I am listening to our people, any leader who makes that decision will be re-elected without a doubt, they will be heroes of our people and their politics will be rosy for the period to come. The party will be the home for the Murima. Politics is local.

I am the leader of the Mountain and President Ruto did not understand this.  The entire Mountain left with me and followed with me to Wamunyoro.

 That is why you find the place is a beehive of activities. The meetings you see on social media are the few ones we report.

There are several other meetings we don’t report. We are secretive. serious decisions have been made by the community on how we proceed going forward.

One of the reasons, is that we are through with President William Ruto for betraying and deceiving the Mountain.

Political analyst Mr. Odoyo Owidi said Rigathi is borrowing heavily from Jaramogi and Raila’s school of politics to deconstruct president Ruto.

“If you keen watch Rigathi brand of politics, you will realize and understand that is replaying Raila’s and Jaramogi scripts and soon he may be the main kingmaker in this country,” he said.

Odoyo said Rigathi is selling hope to the people of the mountain and turned President Ruto into a tool of hate to the Murima and this is gaining traction in the region.

By Erick Otieno

Muhuru Bay in Muhuru Ward, Nyatike Sub-County, is set for a major transformation as plans to restore its historical significance as a key maritime hub gain momentum. Once a bustling landing point for ships, the port’s revival is expected to boost trade, transport, and economic activities in the region.

A high-profile delegation recently conducted a public participation exercise to engage the local community on the project. The team included officials from the National Land Commission, the Ministry of Lands, and the Migori County Government. The delegation from the National Land Commission was led by Mr. Msongo Ndege, while the Migori County Government team was headed by County Executive Committee Members (CECMs) John Oring’o (Lands & Transport) and Mercy Okwanyo (Land & Housing), alongside Chief Officers Prof. Rose Ogwang Odhiambo (Gender & Inclusivity) and Andrew Mwera (Lands & Urban Development).

During the engagement, it was affirmed that the land designated for the Muhuru Port project originally belonged to the Kenya Railways Authority and is now under the Kenya Ports Authority. However, it was noted that some individuals had illegally acquired titles to sections of the land. The community, in a show of unity, expressed full support for the project and called for the immediate revocation of these illegal titles to pave the way for the port’s construction.

The plan to revamp the port comes just weeks after Migori Governor Dr. George Mbogo Ochilo met with Housing Principal Secretary Charles Hinga in Nairobi. Their discussions focused on the actualization of several development projects, including the establishment of Economic Stimulus Programme (ESP) markets within the county.

The revival of Muhuru Pier is expected to unlock economic opportunities for Nyatike, positioning it as a strategic trade hub and enhancing connectivity with neighbouring regions. The government has assured residents that the project will be implemented transparently, ensuring maximum benefits for the people of Nyatike.

With renewed commitment from national and county leadership, Muhuru Bay is on the path to reclaiming its status as a vital economic gateway, promising prosperity for local businesses, traders, and fishermen.