By Sandra Blessing

In a bid to unlock the economic potential of Kisumu City, the Governor, Prof Peter Anyang Nyong’o, will hold a round table discussion with stakeholders in the region.

In the roundtable discussion scheduled for 14^th May 2025, target land owners in the city mainly Manyatta B, Milimani, South West Kisumu, Nyalenda A, Nyalenda B, Migosi,  Railways, Shauri Moyo/ Kaloleni, Kajulu, Kondele, Central Kisumu, Kolwa Central, Kolwa East,  Kisumu  North and all the stakeholders.

The deliberations will be on the  land use optimization and the event will be held at Tom Mboya Labor College.

The Roundtable discussion seeks to  engage  land owners , investors , government agencies and  built environment  stakeholders  on the  strategic  use of land  to unlock  economic potential  of  rapidly growing Kisumu city.

The forum will focus  on  strategies  to develop  idle and underutilized  land  in line  with  the approved  Kisumu  city local physical and land use development plan.

Strengthening  compliance with building laws and zoning  regulations to enhance  orderly development

Addressing outstanding land rate arrears through flexible and innovative payment arrangements.

Exploring public-private partnerships to drive sustainable investments in infrastructure and real estate.

The City is owed billions of shillings in rate arrears by various government agencies, private investors and the public.

By Sandra Blessing

The government has declared an upsurge of influenza in the country and asked the public to practise caution to prevent the spread.

In March this year, the government recorded a notable rise in cases of the disease.

Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni Muriuki, in a memo to all county directors of public health, said an upsurge of seasonal influenza A/H3N2 and pdm09H1 was recorded during the month of March.

“The Ministry of Health conducts sentinel site surveillance for influenza viruses and other respiratory pathogens in the country. This is primarily to understand and monitor the influenza subtypes that are circulating in the population, as well as to detect unusual activity and new subtypes that may pose a public health threat.

Influenza viruses usually circulate throughout the year, with two peaks of infections—from late February to April and between July and November.

From the ongoing surveillance, the main influenza subtypes that have been circulating in the Kenyan population are the seasonal influenza A/H3N2 and pdm09H1, with a notable upsurge in the number of cases in the month of March 2025,” she wrote.

Muthoni said influenza was a highly contagious viral infection affecting the respiratory system—primarily the upper respiratory tract, though it can also cause severe lower respiratory diseases.

She added that the disease is caused by the influenza virus, which has four types—A, B, C, and D—with humans most commonly affected by influenza A and B viruses.

“Influenza B is currently circulating in Kenya’s Victorian lineage. Most patients with influenza usually present with symptoms of fever, cough, sneezing, malaise, and a sore throat.
Typically, seasonal influenza infections are self-limiting, but they may also lead to severe disease presentation,” she said.

She added that the disease has adverse effects on the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and those with underlying health conditions, who are at higher risk of severe illness.

She issued a public health advisory warning that the disease could culminate in hospitalisation and even death for high-risk groups.

“It is advised that these groups seek medical attention promptly upon experiencing influenza-like symptoms.

To avoid and reduce the spread of influenza and other respiratory illnesses, the public is urged to avoid close contact with individuals who are sick.

Employ cough and sneeze etiquette, practise hand hygiene, avoid touching your face, wear masks, clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, and get vaccinated,” she said.

She concluded that the Government of Kenya remains vigilant in combating infectious diseases and ensuring the health and safety of its citizens.

Efforts are ongoing to provide quality healthcare services and protect the public from influenza outbreaks.

By Sandra Blessing

Lake Basin Development Authority (LBDA) has adopted innovative technologies to strengthen its aquaculture value chain in the 21 fish ponds and a modern fingerlings hatchery plant (Recirculating Aquaculture System—RAS).

LBDA Managing Director Wycliff Ochiaga said that with the adoption of the innovation, they expect to boost fingerlings production to between 2 million and 4 million fingerlings per month.

He said they have adopted advanced aerator systems in the fish ponds to ensure optimal dissolved oxygen levels, which are crucial for healthy fish growth, improved feed efficiency, and reduced mortality.

“This technology not only boosts fish productivity but also aligns with our commitment to sustainable aquaculture, food security, and economic empowerment to communities along the Lake Basin region,” he said.

He explained that the technology of aeration in fish ponds involves mechanical or natural systems that increase the amount of dissolved oxygen (DO) in the water—essential for fish health, feed efficiency, and waste breakdown.

Ochiaga said the purpose of aeration is to maintain optimal oxygen levels:

“Fish require oxygen to survive, grow, and reproduce. Prevents fish kills, especially in warm weather or high-density ponds where oxygen can drop rapidly. Improves water quality: Oxygen supports beneficial bacteria that break down waste (ammonia, nitrites). Enhances productivity: Higher DO means better feed conversion and faster growth,” he said.

The MD said the core components of aeration technology include an air supply system through solar-powered blowers/pumps, a distribution system using pipes and tubing to carry air, and diffusers or mechanical devices to introduce air into the water.

Others include fine bubble diffusers to release micro-bubbles for better oxygen transfer, paddle wheel aerators to agitate the water surface to absorb oxygen, venturi injectors to mix air and water using pressure, and fountains and propeller aerators to create turbulence that draws in oxygen.

The MD said that for power sources, they use solar power, which is eco-friendly and ideal for off-grid areas.

“We have integration in the aquaculture value chain to support high-yield fish farming, reduce mortality and losses, improve product quality for the market, and increase the efficiency of other systems like feeding and water reuse,” he said.

By Reporter

Top legal minds have lauded four books released by flamboyant lawyer Julie Atieno Ogolla. Her love for research and writing, especially in the area of Alternative Dispute Resolution, spurred her passion to pen books worth studying within legal circles.

During the launch of the four books in a colourful ceremony attended by the country’s top legal professionals on April 30, 2025, Atieno’s books were recommended for the legal fraternity and law enthusiasts.

Legal practitioner, academic and consultant Muthomi Thiankolu said Atieno’s book on time management in legal practice titled, “Lawyer in Progress: 365 Days to Success – Planner for Undergraduate and Bar Exam Students,” was timely.

He also vouched for, “Beyond the Books: The Law Student’s Guide to Passing the Bar Exam,” for all lawyers who want to save time in their trade.

“The reason I recommended these two books was because they teach how to efficiently manage our time,” said Muthomi.

He advised upcoming lawyers that if they maximised the use of their professional time, they would likely have happier clients—and more fame, glory, and success.

“Something I taught Atieno in her class was about time management. One of the hypotheses I have sold to the Judicial Service Commission is about time management. A country’s fortunes, in terms of socio-economic advancement, is inversely proportional to the number of lawyers in a country,” argued Muthomi.

Muthomi attributed delays in court cases to lawyers’ lack of time management.

Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo was categorical in her recommendation of Atieno’s book on Alternative Dispute Resolution, “From Tradition to Modernity: The Role of ADR in African Justice Systems.” She referred to it as timely, and one that should ignite the legal fraternity to deeply explore other ways of solving disputes beyond court processes.

“This book is humbling as it gives practical solutions that we can inculcate in our justice system. ADR is an area that is fast catching up locally, regionally, and internationally. Our aim is to position Nairobi as the cradle or centre of mediation or arbitration in the region,” said Odhiambo.

Law lecturer and former Makueni Governor Prof. Kivutha Kibwana, who was the Guest of Honour, noted that Atieno’s books were dearly needed now that the study of law has expanded to higher institutions beyond the Kenya School of Law.

“Atieno’s books really need to go to law schools, and to the lawyers who are already in practice to help them improve or further build their practice,” said Kibwana.

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is the mechanism of resolving disputes through means other than the court process. These include mediation, conciliation, negotiation, arbitration, and traditional dispute resolution mechanisms.

Her books aim to reshape legal education, practice, and spiritual growth for aspiring and practising lawyers. Each of her books provides a unique perspective on legal success, professional development, and the role of faith in the legal profession.

Atieno provides a thought-provoking analysis of ADR’s role in enhancing access to justice, particularly in regions where formal legal systems often face challenges related to accessibility and efficiency. The idea of ADR first excited her when she realised how effectively it helped resolve cases that might otherwise drag on in court for years.

“My book on ADR implores the importance of using it as an alternative way of solving disputes in our societies. If wholly embraced, ADR can be used to ensure that there is no backlog of cases in our courts across the country,” says Atieno.

Judge Asenath Ongeri, widely known for her memoir “The Making of a Judge,” was also present.

Speaking during the launch, Atieno Ogolla shared, “These books are the culmination of my passion for law, education, and mentorship. Each of them addresses a critical gap in legal education and practice, offering students and practitioners the tools they need to succeed academically, professionally and spiritually.”

Photo credits to Nuwira Studios and Lensically Creative Media

By Reporter

Coca-Cola has announced a 17 percent price reduction on its popular 500ml glass bottle in Nyanza and Western as part of a new regional campaign dubbed ‘Shika Mzito’.

Consumers in the region can now enjoy their favourite Coke, Fanta or Sprite for just KES 50—down from KES 60—in celebration of the community’s hard work, resilience, and vibrant spirit.

The three-month campaign will roll out across ten counties: Kisumu, Homa Bay, Migori, Siaya, Kisii, Nyamira, Kakamega, Bungoma, Vihiga, and Busia. It honours the region’s deep sense of community connections by making their favourite pack affordable and available to be enjoyed by all during this campaign.

“Nyanza and Western are known for their strong community bonds, Coca-Cola’s iconic 500ml pack has always been a part of these connections,” said Weslene Orwoba, Senior Marketing Manager, Coca-Cola Kenya.

“Whether it’s after a long day in farms, during a break, or while cheering on a favourite football team, these are moments that bring people together—and nothing complements them better than an ice-cold Coke. ‘Shika Mzito’ is our way of celebrating those moments and making them even more enjoyable with an affordable refreshment.”

Popularly known as ‘madiaba’, the 500ml bottle is being positioned as a symbol of pride and recognition—an everyday reward for the region’s unsung heroes: farmers, fishermen, football fans, boda boda riders, teachers, artisans, and many others who uplift their communities in meaningful ways.

Coca-Cola has long been part of the region’s vibrant football culture and community celebrations, in a place proud to be home to legendary teams like Gor Mahia, AFC Leopards, Kakamega Homeboyz, Shabana FC, and many more.

“Community is everything in Nyanza and Western regions, and celebrations big or small, are part of the culture. ‘Shika Mzito’ is our way of joining in those moments and creating even more reasons to come together,” added Ms Orwoba.

With this price reduction, Coca-Cola is not just offering value—it’s reaffirming its commitment to the traditions, passions, and values that define Nyanza and Western Kenya.

By Billy Mijungu

As Kenya intensified its commitment to child welfare, a new pillar was quietly but firmly established within the Directorate of Children Services.

Known as the Strategic Intervention Department, this unit was created to address emerging and urgent challenges facing children across the country.

It was not born out of convenience, but out of necessity, with a clear mandate to protect the most vulnerable in moments of crisis.

At the heart of the department’s mission is the protection of children during emergencies.

Whether responding to floods, droughts, disease outbreaks, or situations where children are at risk, the department plays a central coordinating role.

It is a member of the Kenya National Food Security Working Group and conducts regular assessments in arid and semi-arid regions.

Officers stationed in twenty-three counties provide critical services, supported by guidelines that have already been rolled out to several counties.

The National Child Helpline, accessed through the toll-free number 116, is another vital arm of the department.

It operates around the clock from Kabete and Eldoret, handling nearly one hundred thousand cases annually.

Since its beginnings in 2006, and with ChildLine Kenya joining the effort in 2008, the helpline has grown into a lifeline for countless children.

It now includes mental health chatbot services, and despite challenges like staffing and operational costs, it remains a vital refuge for those in need.

Another key area of focus is the management of child protection cases.

This section ensures that both government and civil society actors are aligned in how they respond to children in need.

Guidelines launched in 2021 have guided over twelve hundred stakeholders from twenty-two counties.

Still, limited resources have slowed full nationwide implementation.

The department also champions access to justice for children.

It works closely with the judiciary and the National Council on the Administration of Justice to build capacity for children’s officers across the country.

Hundreds of officers have been trained on key legal procedures such as bail, diversion, and plea bargaining, ensuring that children caught in legal systems are treated fairly and with dignity.

An ambitious model for Child Protection Centers has also taken shape, inspired by the one-stop approach seen in Huduma Centres.

These hubs bring together legal, social, and medical services under one roof.

Although six centers have been launched in Nairobi, Nakuru, Garissa, Kilifi, Siaya, and Kakamega, sustainability remains a challenge.

A model for integrating these services into existing county infrastructure is currently under review.

The work of the Strategic Intervention Department is ongoing and dynamic.

It is developing assessment tools linked to food security and child protection, training officers for emergency response, and preparing a roadmap for deeper collaboration with partners like ChildLine Kenya.

The department envisions a future where child protection services are seamlessly integrated, supported by robust data, efficient communication systems, and well-equipped emergency command centers.

Despite financial and logistical hurdles, the Strategic Intervention Department is a living testament to Kenya’s evolving response to the needs of its children.

It stands as both a guardian and a guide, offering hope in times of crisis and structure in times of reform.

For every child who faces danger, neglect, or injustice, this department exists quietly working to ensure that no child is left behind.

By Anderson Ojwang

The arguably Kenya’s giant in terms of his height, size and performance as administrators in education, sports, and leadership, Mr. Paul Agali Otula is dead.

Otula, the country’s towering giant, bowed out, after what family suspects to be as a result of cardiac arrest. 

Otula was one of the country’s finest education and sports administrators, former Kenya International basketball player, and a respected author.

Otula was a man with a golden hand and whatever he touched glowed and turned into gold. 

Success followed Otula everywhere he went, from classroom, to the office and into the gym, where he transformed his subjects into the country’s finest products.

Otula was a man of the first, honors, accolades and awards became part of his world.

Otula, the educationist, administrator and author, was a believer in performance with his driving philosophy of nurturing an all-round individual.

He was a strong believer in excellent performance, ability  and honesty, the driving principles that shaped his administration and leadership.

From a classroom as an English and Literature teacher, in Mbita High School, he was transferred to Mangu High school, where he rose to become the Chief Principal, and was later transferred to Maseno school. 

From Maseno school, Otula briefly became the Chief Principal of Sunshine Secondary School.

In his career as a teacher and administrator, Otula transformed Mangu High school, Maseno School and Sunshine Secondary School to be top schools in the country.

From school management, Otula was one of the best sports administrators and the longest serving chairman of Kenya Basketball Federation(KBF).

He was a member of the National Olympic Committee (NOC) and led Kenya’s Olympic team to France in 2024.

He had a declared interest for the seat of Deputy Treasurer in the coming NOC election.

Otula transformed the game and took the country to the continental limelight where Kenya’s National Basketball teams are ranked highly.

From a once empty basketball gym, Otula made basketball to be a loved sport and currently, the gym is filled to the brim.

Otula also oversaw the actualization of a new KBF constitution that is in tandem with the Sports Act as required by the constitution.

The news of Otula’s death shook the country from all quarters, within the teaching fraternity, sports, former students, colleagues, politicians, friends and relatives.

Former chairman of Maseno School alumni and board, member during his tenure Mr. Charles Gitau described Otula as an honest and sincere person who meant well for the students and the country.

“Otula was such a resource to be close to. 

He had unique management and leadership skills. 

He turned Maseno school around to be an academic giant once again,” he said.

Gitau said the country had lost a person who had no boundary, a nationalist and was a principled person.

Former Maseno school Parents and Teachers Association (PTA) chairman during Otula’s tenure, Prof James Obondi Otieno described him as an icon who sacrificed all for the success of his students.

Otieno said Otula stirred a positive competition in Schools in Western Kenya and his presence in the region had a positive impact on the general performance in the region.

“I spoke to Mwalimu Otula in the evening before he died the next day. 

We shared on very important engagements that we had envisaged for Nyanza. 

He was so passionate about education and sports that in all his talks, rotated around that,” he said

Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Performance Contracting Mr. Eliud Owalo wrote “It’s with deep sorrow that I have learnt of the sudden death of long-serving Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) Chairman Paul Otula.

Otula had a chequered career as a teacher of no mean repute;Principal of both Mangu High School and Maseno School; and an icon in basketball circles.

I have over the past decade worked closely with the late Otula in supporting various Basketball initiatives through the Eliud Owalo Foundation.

At this moment of grief, I convey my condolences to his family, relatives, and friends plus both the teaching and basketball fraternity in Kenya.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.”

An alumni Toni Simba wrote on Maseno alumni X handle “Ask  Maseno School. Mangu, or Sunshine, Paul A Otula was a legend.

You don’t get them like him anymore.

He once made me run five laps around Maseno rugby pitch for being late to basketball practice, a fond memory from 2015, form 1”.

Another alumnus wrote “A good man has rested.

Mr. Paul Otula, former principal of Maseno school, has left behind a legacy of excellence in education.

Even those who never interacted with him were inspired by his dedication to academic excellence.

Mwalimu positively impacted many lives.”

Former colleague, Duncan Owiye said Otula taught them the virtue of honesty, discipline, hard work and service to community.

“Otula frowned against short-cuts, he would never accept that.

He changed the Maseno school staff room, and we are what we are because of Otula,” he said.

Another colleague Mr.Mangla Okanda described Otula as father to teachers, students and the subordinates.

“Otula gave his all.

He was an incorruptible person.

He was simple but very firm and decisive.

He was liked by students and the staff.

He has left a legacy that will tell his story for years,” he said.

A friend and strategist Mr. Robert Ogindo said Otula supported education activities in all schools in Karachuonyo and his influence impacted positively in the region.

“Otula supported our education activities and schools benefited immensely.

He mentored several teachers in sports. 

He is the MP Karachuonyo people never had,” he said.