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From Children Homes to Children Programs in Alternative Family Care, Government of Kenya Transitions.

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Narration By Billy Mijungu

There is an important and transformative effort underway in our country that many people may not yet be aware of. It is taking place quietly within the government, and it involves something deeply personal and profound the lives and futures of our children.

I speak of the transition from institutional care of children to alternative family care, a process being led by a dedicated and passionate team in the Alternative Family Care Department.

For many years, the common solution for children who had lost or been separated from their families was to place them in institutions, commonly known as children’s homes or orphanages.

While these facilities were often set up with good intentions, we have learned over time that no institution, no matter how well run, can replace the love, stability, and nurturing that comes from growing up in a family.

That is why Kenya made a bold and compassionate commitment in the Children Act of 2022. This law recognizes that the family is the natural and best environment for the growth and development of every child.

It sets out a clear path for the country to transition all children’s institutions into family and community based care systems over a ten year period, from the year two thousand and twenty two to the year two thousand and thirty two.

The department at the center of this effort is the Alternative Family Care Department within the State Department for Social Protection. Its mandate is to safeguard and protect the rights and welfare of all children in alternative care.

The department is led by experienced professionals who work to design and oversee the implementation of alternative care programs. These include kinship care, guardianship, foster care, adoption, supported independent living, and temporary shelters.

The goal is to ensure that children who cannot live with their biological parents are still able to grow up in a safe and loving family environment. The department also maintains a National Foster Care Register, conducts situation analyses, raises awareness, builds capacity among care practitioners, and supports case management and reintegration processes.

There has already been significant progress. Over one thousand two hundred children have been placed in foster care, and more than eight hundred have been successfully reintegrated into their families.

These are not just statistics. Each number represents a child who now has a better chance at life a chance to grow up in a family rather than in an institution.

However, there are challenges. Funding remains inadequate. Many institutions are resistant to change. Awareness about alternative care remains low in many parts of the country. There are also many children with disabilities who still lack proper care. Despite these difficulties, the department and its partners continue to move forward with courage and determination.

The good news is that the foundation for success is already in place. Kenya has strong legal and policy frameworks. We are seeing growing support from both the government and the community.

Some institutions have already transitioned children back to families and are now champions of this reform. Our cultural values still honor the family as the cornerstone of society. And perhaps most importantly, we have a resilient and adaptive people who understand the value of giving every child a fair chance.

As a nation, we must come together to support this journey. Let us advocate for more funding, encourage our communities to welcome children in need, and ensure that no child is left behind simply because they lack parental care.

Let us remind ourselves that every child deserves not just shelter, but a home. Not just care, but love. Not just survival, but a future.

Utalli CEO challenges students to avoid Gambling and focus on Career Development

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By Sandra Blessings
Kenya Utalli College Principal and Chief Executive Officer has challenged the students to avoid the urge to gamble but instead focus on their career development.

The Principal, Mr. Mark Ogendi, while addressing the first year at the institution, warned them that gambling was a deterrent to the development of their careers and results in dropouts.

“Gambling is not only affecting the youths but all sectors of the country population, I ask you to be very responsible with your finances.

“I advise you not to list betting as one of the sources of income.

Betting is a losing game.

An enticement that promises to make you rich overnight, only to drain you,” he said.

Ogendi said some students have spent school fees, rent and upkeep on gambling and subsequently become beggars and even dropped out of college.

He said Kenya Utalli College was a renowned hospitality and tourism training institution globally and was the best institution for them to develop and nurture their preferred careers.

”You are privileged to study in this prestigious institution, and I encourage you to jealously guard its integrity and reputation,” he said.

Ogendi challenged the students to settle down and embark on serious academic studies and avoid time-wasting activities that do not add value.

“Uncertainties are detrimental to career development as one loses focus and concentration.

I urge you to appreciate the training opportunity that God has granted you and understand that grass is not greener on the other side; but rather, where you water it,” he said.

The CEO urged the students to ensure discipline formed part of their menu, and incidents of indiscipline will not be tolerated.

“You are the pillar of our institution.

You are also the heart of hospitality.

You are the adventures of tourism.

You are the pride of Kenya Utalli College.

As we start and continue this journey together, I am passionate about ensuring you succeed in your chosen course of study.

Kenya Utalli College is blessed with highly qualified Lecturers, learning materials and a supportive administration.

For fifty years, this institution has been providing competency-based training not only for Kenya but also, the continent and the world at large.

Our graduates are found in all corners of the globe.

Be proud to be at Kenya Utalli College,” he said.

He said that for one to be successful, discipline is the main ingredient at all levels; it includes being responsible, working hard, etiquette honest, sticking to routine rules, focusing on goals and controlling oneself.

“This is an important element that helps you to attain your good grades, personal growth, freedom, good habits and future success for the rest of your lives,” he said.

He warned them against engaging in alcoholism, drug abuse and irresponsible sexual behaviour.

“There are students who consume drugs for fun or other various reasons.

Those who sell drugs target students so that they can become part of their business network, and when you get addicted to it, it starts biting back financially and mentally.

I, therefore, humbly ask all of you to refrain from all kinds of drug abuse before it destroys your future, health and lives,” he said.

He said the institution has psychologists/counsellors to help students address instances of drug abuse and other vices that may hinder their academic progression.

“The College has put measures in place to ensure your security by reinforcing our team with armed Kenya Police personnel from Muthaiga Police station, using patrol dogs, and installing CCTV cameras,” he said.

Will the Legends of Noo return the ‘sold glory’ back to the people in 2027 Gubernatorial Election?

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By Anderson Ojwang                       

The Noo clan in Kisumu County is the second largest Luo clan after Rachuonyo, and they occupy Nyando, Muhoroni and Kisumu East sub counties and part of Kisumu Central. They account for over 50 percent of Kisumu County population.

The clan draws respect for being the home of the legends such as Lwanda Magere, who won several battles between the Luo and the Nandi. He possessed unearthly powers, and his flesh was made of stone. He deflected arrows, spears and clubs, making him invincible during war. He was famously known for his capability to tear an entire army apart on his own.

A site in Sidho, near Awasi in Nyando, has a stone revered as the spot where Luanda Magere died. Legend has it that Luo warriors sharpened their blades on the shrine before battles. People come from far and wide to conduct rituals and prayers at the site

Equally, Kano is the birthplace of the Legio Maria sect leader and messiah, Baba  Melkio Ondetto. Legio Mariah sect has a big following in the region and some senior politicians from the region ascribe to its doctrines. He was excommunicated by the Catholic Church in the 1960s and became a prominent figure in his own movement, with followers viewing him as a messiah and prophet. 

At independence, Kano dominated the politics of Kisumu county council and held the seat for the chairman for the longest time ever.

For Kano, the leadership of Kisumu was in their hands and they safeguarded it against the outsiders whom they called Oluwo Reru ( came by the train).

That is why when the first governor for Kisumu, Jack Nyanungo Ranguma, was elected with overwhelming votes.

A joke is told of how two sons of Kano then area MP Fred Outa and Patrick Ouya, conspired to disinherit the Kano of their grade cow and instead brought home a donkey.

Ouya and Outa were the brains behind the infamous non-existent Thurdibuoro tallying centre that declared then senator Prof Anyang Nyong’o the winner of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) nomination and subsequently became the second governor.

As fate would have it, Ouya and Outa soon fell out after what they had perceived to hold a nusu mkate (half loaf) stake in Nyongo’s government was a mirage and they returned home empty-handed.

They in 2017, they supported Ranguma against Nyong’o but lost in the election. Outa joined President William Ruto after the loss and was subsequently appointed Kenya’s ambassador to Egypt while Ouya remained aloof.

Now the Noo clan have a date with destiny with Nyong’o’s term coming to an end in 2027. Will Noo undo the curse that removed leadership from his hands to regain control of Kisumu County?

Kano is the home of powerful and respected leaders such as former Minister Onyango Midika, Peter Anyumba, who served as the country’s longest director of surveys, J B Nyamwaya, who was Kisumu county council chairman, Boaz Magero Lusi, Johana Nyasuna, Okal Ogawa Festus Nyando and Alfred  Aguko, all of who were became council chairman.

Others are former Nyando MP Eng Erick Nyamunga, Eng Otiende Odongo, former provincial commissioner Peter Raburu, among others.

In a bid to maintain their political supremacy, the Noo coiled a political alliance with Kisumo and Kajulu and invented a Triple K alliance, which ensured they dominated the politics of Kisumu until ODM leader Raila Odinga dismantled it.

Raila was able to dismantle the hold in Triple K power matrix after he forced then little-known Shakeel Ahmed Shabbir to become the mayor of Kisumu and subsequently scattered the union to the periphery of Kisumu politics.

Two years ago, after various aspirants began early campaigns for the gubernatorial seat, an infuriated Raila read the riot act to the aspirants who included Kisumu central MP Dr Joshua Oron, from Kano, Aduma Owuor, Senator Tom Ojienda and Deputy Governor Mathews Owili, all from Nyakach.

Kisumu County has a registered voters as per the 2022 Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) that 606,754, which is distributed among the constituencies as Nyakach  68,884, Muhoroni 69091, Nyando 71680, Seme  58555, Kisumu Central 120,023, Kisumu West 74,439, and  Kisumu East 81,558

“I do not want to see people campaigning now. Let people deliver on their mandate to the people. It is not time for politics. The party will give direction at the opportune time,’ he said at a funeral in Nyakach.

But the campaigns did not stop as the aspirants have continued to spread their tentacles across the county with various projects and campaign programs.

Sources revealed to  The Western Insight that a team of Kano professionals, business persons, headed by Eng Nyamunga, are working around the clock to restore the lost dignity and glory of the land of legends.

“Currently, the Kano people only have one candidate, and they have resolved that they will not be divided and have learnt the harsh lesson from betraying the clan by passing over the leadership to Seme,” said our sources.

Ouya said they have since repented to the people for betraying their cause and that is why they supported Ranguma in the last general election.

“It is painful that we took away the leadership from our people but we indeed repented. Now I want to take a low profile and allow the clan to make the best political decision for the people,” he said.

The unity among Kano people is causing discomfort in the ODM party leadership, who feel that with the changing political dynamics, it could easily enable them to regain the seat.

Aduma, Ojienda and Owili will first have to square it for Nyakach votes before seeking from other regions, which could make them start from a disadvantaged point.

Oron could start from a vantage point should no other candidate emerge from the clan and may give him the leverage he needs in the 2027 campaigns and elections.

Gem’s special: The “Graces” who shaped the path for women in leadership in Kenya

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By Anderson Ojwang
They defied odds, stigma, and cultural barriers that negated women’s place in the pre- and post-colonial eras.

They were indeed a special breed of women who, in their own ways, rewrote the story of women in pre- and post-colonial Kenya.

By their names, they broke all the barriers and became the beacon of hope, and chartered a path in the male-dominated fields to hand over the keys to womenfolk in all spectrums.

In them, just like their matrimonial homes, Gem, which in the English language refers to precious stones or jewels, or something of great value and beauty, indeed, they lived up to the definition.

In Nyanza, Gem is viewed as a special area in the region, and it is often joked that it is the land of plenty and intellectuals.

In Siaya County, Gem has dominated in nearly all spheres.

It is the brain and economic basket of Saiya County.

That is why the history of Nyanza and the Country is not complete without the two great women from Gem, who have left indelible marks in the socio-economic, cultural, educational and political landscape of the country.

The two great women were all named Grace, and they stormed and shaped the country’s future of women in leadership and have remained a beacon of hope and icons.

The late Mama Grace Monica Akech Onyango was the country’s first elected woman member of parliament, first woman deputy speaker, and first Kisumu mayor and was revered not only in the region but nationally.

She came from Bondo.

Grace became the mayor of Kisumu between 1965-1969 and was elected to the parliament in 1969 to represent Kisumu Town Constituency.

Onyango was the first woman to sit in the speaker’s chair as temporary deputy speaker, and served as deputy speaker from 1979 to 1984.

Onyango also served as the first Secretary General of the Luo Union, and her political career ended after she lost the seat in 1984.

The late Mama Grace Emily Akinyi Ogot was the first Anglophone female Kenyan writer to be published; she was one of the first Kenyan members of parliament and became an assistant minister.

Ogot was a nurse, author, journalist, politician and diplomat who ran a bookstore in the heart of Kisumu City.

She has several publications to her name, such as Land With Thunder, The Island of Tears, Aloo Kod Apul, and The Graduate.

Miaha, The Other Woman, The Promised Land, The Strange Bride, Simbi Nyaima, The Royal Bead and Princess Nyilaak.

In 1983, she became a member of parliament and was appointed an assistant Minister.

From Bondo and Asembo came two powerful women, who got married in Gem and shared a similar name, which the dictionary aptly captures their true traits and identities.

“Grace” has multiple meanings, encompassing both physical elegance and spiritual concept.

In Christian theology, grace is often understood as freely given, unmerited favour of God, providing assistance and enabling individuals to live a holy life.

The two Graces’ espoused physical elegance, which many agreed was that they behaved with a smooth, pleasing and refined quality, which is currently rare.

Despite their national stature, the two Graces remained polite and kind in behaviour as they were considerate, thoughtful, polite, patient and kind to others.

The two ladies found favour not only in God’s eyes but with the people.

They had special privileges and were looked upon as mentors to date.

According to Prof James Obondi Otieno, who served with Onyango at the Board of Jaramogi Oginga Teaching and Referral Hospital, then New Nyanza Provincial Hospital, the former mayor stood for truth, justice and abhorred corruption.

“Mama Onyango was so motherly but detested corruption.

She liked transparency and accountability.

She did not want to see injustice done to people.

She was a mediator and cherished peace and love,” he says.

Prof Otieno says that after Onyango retired from politics, she remained neutral and never took sides.

She was into charity and philanthropy work, which made the residents revere her most.

The clerk to Kisumu County Assembly, Mr. Owen Ojuok, says Ogot opened the creativity and literary world not only to women but budding authors.

“We studied Ogot’s book as a set book, and they were so rich and apart from her literary works, she had immense influence in development in Gem and other parts of Nyanza,” he says.

Ojuok says the two women were unique and influential in their ways and had such a great impact on society.

Ojuok says the dressing style of Onyango and Ogot was so unique, rich and valuable.

They represented a true African woman and showcased what motherhood and parenthood stood for..

“Ogot was so humble and motherly.

She supported orphans and was more committed to education.

That was her passion,” he says.

Ojuok says Kisumu’s social hall has been renamed Mama Grace Onyango Social Hall in honour of her contributions to the development and growth of the region.

The facility is today a hub for arts, research, sports and an educational centre and is one of the oldest social halls in Kisumu and first opening its doors during the pre-colonial era.

Mama Ogot and her family also left a mark in Gem and Siaya counties, where they donated land where Odera Akango University sits.

Kisumu businessman Mr. Edward Onyango alias Bob says the contribution of the two great women is an inspiration to the current generation, and their mentorship roles still influence the region’s residents.

“Onyango participated in the delineation of Kisumu from Siaya, and they did it seamlessly.

She supported several orphans and needy persons, which is currently being replicated by her grandchildren.

The story of Kisumu and Kenya is incomplete without Onyango, and the same is true of Ogot.

These were special women of substance.

We celebrate their contributions,” he says.

Edward, who is a grandson of Onyango, says the grandmother instilled in them a sense of responsibility, justice and service to the community.

“Our grandma taught us to always give a helping hand.

She was so loving but strict.

She respected the law, and that is some of the traits we have inherited from her,” he says.

My Mum’s First Dress, the Defining Act of Kindness That Transcends All Boundaries

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By Raphael Tuju

“Recently, at about 4 pm, I went to visit this lady whom my mother fondly referred to as Aunt Elizabeth. She touched my mother’s life some 85 years ago, and my mother truly loved her very much. Aunt Elizabeth is today over 100 years old. She is now blind, but her mind is sharp and very clear.

Some 85 years ago, my mother may have been five or six years old. Mama was then an orphan who had lost both her parents.

Mama’s uncle, Alphonse Ndege, came back to the village and found the then very young girl, later to become our mother, walking stark naked like an animal. Her cousins of the same age had some rudimentary clothes. Because Mama was a total orphan, she had no clothes on her back.

Alphonse Ndege felt pity for her. He removed his vest and covered her nakedness with it. Mama never forgot that act of kindness from Uncle Alphonse. Having known no father, she affectionately always referred to Uncle Alphonse as Baba. At one time, in the circle of life, Mama told me this story, and that is why she insisted that I had to pay the school fees for Nyadimo Agunga.

In that same circle of life, Nyadimo Agunga lent me his Land Cruiser V8 for six months two years ago, and he has now given me that car to use again for as long as I need it, because my 20-year-old Land Cruiser recently stalled on the road and now needs major repairs. Nyadimo is a successful businessman on the coast, owning the biggest mall in Malindi, a hotel in Mombasa and several petrol stations, besides other real estate.

When I paid the small school fees for him some decades ago, I never imagined that he would become so successful that he could also bless me with a car for use when I have difficulty.

Now back to Aunt Elizabeth. She was a teacher, having been one of the first girls of her generation to receive an education from the Catholic missionaries in the 1920s. Her only brother, Father Agunga, was one of the first Kenyans to be ordained as a priest. Unfortunately, he died young in a road accident.

For a long time, my mother dedicated me to God because I was so ill at one time when I was only five years old. I was admitted to Maseno Hospital, and I remember that incident to this day. Since Mama had concluded that I was going to die, she invited Catholic priests to come and perform the final rites and prayers meant for those on their deathbed. My situation was hopeless. Miraculously, I recovered. It was then that Mama dedicated me to God and made the undertaking that she would bring me up to become a Catholic priest like her Uncle Agunga. What a big disappointment that I became a politician. At every misfortune I faced, like the plane crash that I survived, Mama always reminisced that it was because I deviated from the path of priesthood.

This would only be mitigated by the fact that she had grandchildren through me whom she loved so much. Imagine, Father Tuju guys… I would have been a disaster in that role, I think.

Now back again to Aunt Elizabeth. I went to thank her again because she had a sewing machine that she used to make Mama her very first dress. Mama never forgot, and she told me several times that I must go and see this lady with her. Unfortunately, Mama died before we could make that joint visit.

Today, I made my way there and found Aunt Elizabeth well and sitting on her veranda. I went there in tribute to what she did for my mother some 85 years ago. I went to thank her for her kindness to my mother. She prayed so much for me as she remembered the little six-year-old she made a dress for those many years ago. It may have been a small thing, but it is the story of that first dress for Mama that made me go to visit her today. Because of that dress, I traced my way there. Whatever little you can do for an orphan or a needy child, it may be the one thing that endures.”

The writer is a former Foreign Affairs Minister, accomplished journalist and philanthropist.

Guardians of Innocence: The Silent Heroes in Kenya’s Fight Against Child Trafficking

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Junior Secondary Schools

By Billy Mijungu

In a world where the light of childhood is too often dimmed by the cruel hand of human trafficking, Kenya has risen, bold and unyielding, to defend its children. At the forefront of this noble mission stands the State Department for Children’s Welfare Services, true custodians of our nation’s future.

Through the visionary guidance of the Counter Trafficking in Persons Secretariat, anchored by the Directorate of Children Services, a symphony of protection, rehabilitation, and hope resounds across Kenya. Established under the strong legal foundation of the Counter Trafficking in Persons Act 2010, this Department has become a beacon in the storm, coordinating interagency efforts with grace and unrelenting purpose.

The Advisory Committee, a coalition of the nation’s finest, from Immigration, Foreign Affairs, Labour, to the National Police, civil society warriors like CHTEA and TRACE Kenya, and international partners like UNODC and IOM, embodies the spirit of Harambee, working together in seamless unity.

Their charge is clear: to advise, to prevent, to protect, and to rebuild shattered lives.

Through the establishment of the National Assistance Trust Fund, they have extended a lifeline to the broken, providing shelter to the weary, medical aid to the wounded, psychosocial support to the traumatized, and legal guidance to the voiceless. No child is left behind; no survivor is abandoned. Every rescued soul is wrapped in care, dignity, and the unbreakable promise of a new beginning.

With partners such as Lawyers Without Borders, Haart Kenya, and Kenya Airways, the Department’s reach spans from the courtroom to the airways, from the dark alleys of urban despair to the rural heartlands where traffickers prey.

Every life saved, every child protected, is a testament to the unwavering heartbeat of the State Department for Children Welfare Services.

Today we celebrate these silent heroes, these Guardians of Innocence, who day after day write a new narrative for Kenya’s children: one not of fear, but of flourishing; not of bondage, but of boundless dreams.
Let us honour them, support them, and walk beside them. For in defending the child, we defend the very soul of our nation.

The Push and Pull of Broad-Based Government

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By Billy Mijungu

Raila Odinga recently stepped forward to defend those who had come under fire for criticizing President William Ruto, notably Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o, James Orengo, and Edwin Sifuna. This intervention was not simply about shielding political allies; it was a veiled but pointed message to President Ruto.

Raila seemed to be signaling that the role of ODM in the broad-based arrangement is to help stabilize the government, not to act as an extension of Ruto’s re-election strategy. It is a delicate balance, one that has defined the uncertain path of the ongoing cooperation between ODM and UDA.

Looking ahead, the future of this MoU appears set for a tactical collaboration that could endure until around July 2027. Yet, the road to that date will not be a smooth one. Deep tensions have already started surfacing, threatening the very foundation of the alliance.

With Ruto’s previously strong foothold in the Mount Kenya region now appearing shaky, the president increasingly finds himself needing to align with the demands of Raila and his team to sustain the stability of his administration. However, this necessary cooperation has not sat well with many within UDA. The resistance has been fierce, sometimes so intense that it seems poised to tear the fragile broad-based fabric apart.

At the heart of the friction is Raila Odinga’s persistent and bold push to devolve critical national infrastructure agencies like the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) and the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) to county governments. Raila is not stopping there.

He has also called for the abolition of the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF), an institution many MPs jealously guard. His agenda is clear: to empower Governors and strengthen the devolution framework in ways that will fundamentally shift the balance of political and development power from Members of Parliament to County leaderships.

This aggressive push, understandably, has strained relationships within the coalition. Governors have embraced it enthusiastically, sensing an opportunity to wield greater authority over resources and infrastructure, while MPs view it as a direct threat to their traditional influence at the grassroots.

Yet, in my view, Raila is right. For too long, Members of the National Assembly have treated devolution as a side concern, something to be managed rather than fully supported. True devolution requires that counties be entrusted with real power and real resources. Without that, the entire promise of the 2010 Constitution remains hollow.

Against this backdrop, it will be interesting to watch President Ruto’s upcoming tour of Nyanza. His words and tone will reveal much about the future of the broad-based agenda. Will he affirm a genuine commitment to a shared governance platform, or will he retreat into a more defensive posture aimed at shoring up his electoral base? Right now, collective championing of the broad-based government agenda appears to be in tatters.

The trust and clarity that once gave it momentum are slipping away. It is increasingly clear that an urgent summit of leaders is needed to realign priorities, reaffirm commitments, and reshape the agenda if this partnership is to survive the next critical months.

Vandals and gangs to blame for the destruction of facilities at upgraded Kibuye market

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By Anderson Ojwang                       

Vandals and gangs are to blame for the destruction of facilities at the Sh 315M upgraded Kibuye Market.

City Manager Mr. Abala Wanga said after successful upgrade of the market, gangs and vandals took over the market and this resulted into the wanton destruction of properties.

“We have experienced incidences of insecurity at the Kibuye market where even some of our revenue officers have been chased away by panga welding gangs.

The situation has undermined our effort to provide services at the facility.

Some of these gangs are to blame for vandalism of structures at the facility.

This is a delicate situation, but we are handling it to restore order at the biggest open-air facility in the region.

We ask for calm from traders,” he said.

Abala said the directive by the public health on the immediate closure of the facility was timely and will help the City management to fix the emerging issues at the facility.

Yesterday, the public health department noted with great concerns the existence of nuisances at Kibuye market, which threatens the health of the general public and can escalate the spread of cholera disease, which is currently an occurrence within the city and beyond.

The report revealed lack of clean and safe water supply which is as per the public health act cap 242 sec 118, improper solid waste management which is as per the public health act.

“Insanitary toilets ablution blocks as per the public health act, open cooking, and blockages of drainage systems line and access lanes.” it reported.

In a signed report on behalf of the Head of Public Health, Kisumu City Joshua Odongo ordered for immediate stoppage of all operations at Kibuye market until the concerns are addressed.

The City Manager was directed to provide adequate clean and safe water to Kibuye market, design and put up an appropriate solid waste management system for collection and disposal areas.

“Make sure all the ablution blocks and sanitary facilities are well maintained and clean, ensure that all the eateries’ structures are well designed and provided with necessary requirements and all food handlers are medically fit and structures and stalls on the drainage lines and access lanes are removed,” the report directed.

The city reacted by closing the market and wrote “We assure the public and stakeholders that the city of Kisumu is committed to resolving the identified public health concerns with urgency. 

Every effort will be made to ensure that Kibuye market resumes normal operations within the shortest time possible.

The city remains committed to ensuring a clean, safe, and healthy environment for trade.”

Abala said the report by the health department was timely and would help restore dignity of the market and enable the city to repair the damages by the vandals and gangs.

In 2020 when traders were relocated to Moi Stadium grounds to allow for the upgrade of the largest open-air market in the Lake region, that has been in existence for over 70 years, there were promises that the facility would be the best in the region.

During the relocation the City Board and Kisumu Governor Prof Peter Anyang Nyong’o promised a modern facility, which would be the best in East and Central Africa, now only two years, after traders returned to the facility, they are now faced with health concern. 

The market was expected to have modern features like paved roads, modern ablution facilities, a mini fire station, a mini health center and parking areas for customers and loading and offloading sites.

The market was expected to operate 24 hours to spur the lake region’s economy.

Nyong’o who spoke during the groundbreaking ceremony in 2020 said” We are here to not only confirm our promise but to deliver a statement of hope that Kibuye, once completed in a few months, will be one of the most beautiful markets in East and Central Africa”.

The City Board chairman Mr.  Elijah Adul said the facility would have four ablution blocks, a boundary wall, roads, walkways and customer front parking.

On a normal day, the facility handles 3,000 traders while on Sundays, it handles 10,000 and with the upgrade, it was anticipated that the number would double to 20,000.

With the upgrade, the revenue income was expected to go up as City was envisaged to have a data base of all traders and where they will be conducting their daily business compared to what was happening before.

Which Way Raila Odinga?

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By Anderson Ojwang

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga looks to be a man trapped in his own political mirage, wondering on which way to go in his next political move and doesn’t want to alter the existing arrangements.

Raila is breathing hot and cold at the same time, creating confusion and indecision not only among his followers but across the political spectrum.

Raila’s speeches and actions are at variance further leading to questions, what does Raila really wants or is it another charade and wild goose chase?

On Friday at funeral in Karachuonyo,Raila came to the defense of Siaya Governor James Orengo who has been critical of his political pact with President William Ruto terming, who termed it as “a disaster and abomination”.

While Raila was speaking in Karachuonyo, his Orange Democratic movement (ODM) Executive Director Oduor Ongwen was meeting Secretary General of United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Hassan Omar in Nairobi.

Omar wrote on UDA Facebook page “The Secretary General of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), Sen. Hassan Omar Hassan, this morning held a consultative meeting with the Executive Director of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Odour Ongw’en at the ODM Headquarters, Chungwa House, Nairobi.

The consultations are aimed at building synergies which further cement the foundation of the Broad-based Government (BBG) by identifying areas of convergence between the UDA and ODM and design government programs and interventions which align with the recommendations of the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report and the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. 

Also present; Sabastian Mwangangi, Special Advisor to UDA Secretary General and Jarred Omachi, ODM Acting Director Membership.”

At the recent the burial of Raila’s long serving and trusted aide George Oduor, Orengo did not fail to state his disapproval of the union in the presence of Ruto and Raila.

Orengo said he would not fall to praise and worship songs as had been exhibited by previous speakers from the region.

The Governor said he cannot sing song of praises for the government and that it was a right for the people of Siaya to receive development from the government.

“What I am trying to say is that let us build a society, that is built on the constitution and the rule of law.

We can say many things but for me, I cannot be praise singing.

Because we fought for a democratic constitution, where people should talk.

I was in Parliament when people used to tell President Daniel Arap Moi that, there is no where you will go and that you will be in power until the day you want to go.

So, this country will go to the dogs again, if the kind of language I am hearing here today continues.

In a different viral clip Orengo said I want to say those in a rush to join Ruto, that Ruto is a passing cloud.

Ruto is taking us into a sinking ship.

I am urging everybody that is joining Ruto is a disaster and abomination.

It cannot work.

Ruto must go with all his people.”

In Karachuonyo, Raila said the freedom of speech is enshrined in the constitution and that Orengo committed no sin when he spoke out on the political pact.

“In ODM we resolved to have an alliance but that doesn’t mean all of us have joined the government.

You know in USA, the Republican government, they used to have a Democratic Government, former president Joe Bidden had some ministers who were members of republican party, despite the fact that was a democratic administration.

Likewise, President Donald Trump has got some democrats in his cabinet today.

There is no coalition between democratic party and republican party in the USA.

We are running a presidential system of government; we don’t have opposition benches and government benches.

We have what we call parliament as an institution.

Parliament oversights the government.

The executive implements the policies, parliament passes laws.

There is no coalition between ODM and UDA.

But it is an arrangement which is based on MOU that was signed between us, and it was done in an open day light.

We have very clear points on that MOU, which are very explicit indeed.

I don’t see the reason why people are bickering, when Orengo talks, he is talking on the basis of MOU between ODM and UDA.

Orengo has not committed any crime, he has the democratic right to say what he was saying.

When prof Anyang Nyong’o speaks about devolution, he is talking the language of ODM.”

President Ruto was recently accompanied by Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga to China and it came hot in the heels after Ruto appointed the latter son, Jaoko Oburu as a special advisor on Economics and Sustainable Livelihood.

Dr Oburu is currently an ardent support of broad-based government and has maintained that they were rightfully in the broad-based government and have no reason to pull out.

“We joined the broad-based government to help you stabilize the government and we were not worried by those objecting to the new political formation.

We want to encourage the country to be peaceful, we are going to work together and those our friends who think otherwise should, should also continue to think otherwise and we will remain friends with them, but they should know as ODM we have decided to work in this broad-based government.

We have lent you people to work with you and what I want to appeal for, let our region get it share of development,” he said.

Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has also declared that the community was in government to stay and that they have given Raila the mandate to work with the president.

“I want to thank Raila for agreeing to work with you closely to unite this country.

Your Excellency, where you sit be rest assured that Baba has got our collective mandate as the people of this region to assist you unite this country.

And from where we sit your Excellency, there is no turning back, we have made a decision, that we are working with you and we are doing this to the end.

Your Excellency do not be threatened by anything or anybody.

And those shouting Ruto must go, I want to tell you this, he is going nowhere. 

In this region, we are not known to be double speakers, we say what we believe in, and we do what we say.

We have said in one accord, we are in this government as a people and we want to continue in that manner,” he said.

Alego MP Sam Atandi once an ally of Orengo but now a bitter critic asked Orengo to concentrate in managing Siaya county government where he claimed he has failed to deliver.

“We are in government.

We are participating in creating policies for this government. 

And we are supporting this government inside and outside parliament.

I want to tell my governor Orengo, last weekend, we were at a funeral in Siaya, when the president came to condole with us.

My governor made certain remarks that were really distasteful. 

I want to tell Orengo that Luos were not created to stay in the opposition.

I know he has been in opposition since he was born and there is nothing he understands other than opposition.

Let him concentrate in managing Siaya county,” he said.

Queries over the Shs 315 million upgraded Kisumu’s Kibuye market following its closure over health risk concerns

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By Anderson Ojwang                      

Queries have emerged  over Sh 315M upgraded Kibuye market after public health  ordered for its immediate closure following health risk concerns it posed to the traders and residents of Kisumu City.

In 2020 when traders were relocated to Moi Stadium grounds to allow for the upgrade of the largest open air market in the Lake region, that has been in existence for over 70 years, there were promises that the facility would be the best in the region.

During the relocation the City Board and Kisumu Governor Prof Peter Anyang Nyong’o promised a modern facility, which would be the best in East and Central Africa, now only two years after traders returned to the facility, they are now faced with health concerns. 

Did the Board and the contractor meet the specifics in the upgrade and why are the health concerns emerging if Nyong’o’s promise was indeed actualized?

The market was expected to have modern features like paved roads, modern ablution facilities, a mini fire station, a mini health center and parking areas for customers and loading and offloading sites.

The market was expected to operate 24 hours to spur the lake region’s economy.

Nyong’o who spoke during the groundbreaking ceremony in 2020 said ” We are here to not only confirm our promise but to deliver a statement of hope that Kibuye, once completed in a few months, will be one of the most beautiful markets in East and Central Africa.”

The City Board chairman Mr.  Elijah Adul said the facility would have four ablution blocks, a boundary wall, roads, walkways and customer front parking.

Yesterday, the public health department noted with great concerns the existence of nuisances at Kibuye market, which threatens the health of the general public and can escalate the spread of cholera disease, which is currently an occurrence within the city and beyond.

The report revealed lack of clean and safe water supply which is as per the public health act cap 242 sec 118, improper solid waste management which is as per the public health act.

“Insanitary toilets ablution blocks as per the public health act, and blockages of drainage systems line and access lanes.” it reported.

In a signed report on behalf of the Head of Public Health, Kisumu City Joshua Odongo ordered for immediate stoppage of all operations at Kibuye market until the concerns are addressed.

The City Manager was directed to provide adequate clean and safe water to Kibuye market, design and put up an appropriate solid waste management system for collection and disposal areas.

“Make sure all the ablution blocks and sanitary facilities are well maintained and clean, ensure that all the eateries’ structures are well designed and provided necessary requirements and all food handlers are medically fit and structures and stalls on the drainage lines and access lanes are removed,” the report directed.

The city reacted by closing the market and wrote “we assure the public and stakeholders that the city of Kisumu is committed to resolving the identified public health concerns with urgency.  

Every effort will be made to ensure that Kibuye market normal operations within the shortest time possible. 

The city remains committed to ensuring a clean, safe, and healthy environment for trade.”

On a normal day, the facility handles 3,000 traders while on Sundays, it handles 10,000 and with the upgrade, it was anticipated that the number would double to 20,000.

With the upgrade, the revenue income was expected to go up as City was envisaged to have a database of all traders and where they will be conducting their daily business compared to what was happening before.

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