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Natembeya: You won’t silence my voice through political threats, I am a Kenyan

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By Anderson Ojwang

The Tawe Movement is gearing up for a battle royale and has declared that no amount of threat will silence his voice.

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, a self-declared leader of a political outfit, Tawe Movement, in a hard-hitting statement said that his mission will not be derailed by politics of fear.

“My voice will not be silenced by threats, nor will my mission be derailed by the politics of fear,” he wrote in his X handle.

Natembeya, a critic of President William Ruto’s administration and Luhya leaders including the Speaker Moses Wetang’ula and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, is emerging as one of the top national and Luhya politicians.

Natembeya has often criticized Wetang’ula and Mudavadi for failing to articulate the Luhya community agenda in the government and also failing to unite the community to national leadership.

Natembeya has maintained that he is a Kenyan and dedicated to serving the country diligently.

He wrote “I have taken note of the reckless and deeply troubling remarks by a certain politician who not only questioned my nationality but even suggested I be expelled from Kenya. Such incendiary statements are false, inflammatory, and strike at the very heart of our shared identity as Kenyans.

My Roots and Service
Let me be unequivocal: I was born in Kenya, raised in Kenya, educated in Kenya, and have devoted my entire career to public service in this country—from my early days as a Regional Commissioner in high-pressure zones to my current role as Governor of Trans-Nzoia County.
My track record demonstrates a steadfast commitment to the welfare, security, and development of all Kenyans, irrespective of ethnicity or region. No individual—political opponent or otherwise—possesses the moral or legal authority to question my Kenyan identity or strip any citizen of their birthright,”

National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed, when he spoke at the parliament, attacked Natembeya for opposing issuance of identity cards without vetting.
Junet called for Natembeya’s deportation, claiming his remarks showed he was not a Kenyan.

“Mr. Speaker, I was shocked when I saw a governor of Trans Nzoia shouting at the top of his voice in Mt Elgon, saying that some Kenyans should not be given identity cards. Some of the people who have served in provincial administration and having a colonial mentality, he deserves not to lead anyone in Kenya. He is running a county bordering Uganda, why is he discriminating against Kenyans?” he said.

But Natembeya has maintained that his call arose from concern over national security saying Junet distorted the facts to suit his political interest.

“My recent call for the reinstatement of robust vetting procedures for national identity issuance in North Eastern Kenya arose solely from concerns over national security. Border regions have unique challenges, ranging from cross-border movement to the threat of illicit networks, that demand prudent safeguards.

To brand this duty-driven appeal as “discrimination” is a distortion of both fact and intent.

Rejection of Hate-Filled Rhetoric
Worse still was the invocation of genocidal tropes—the so-called “Rwanda way” and “DRC way”—in an attempt to justify punitive measures against me. Such references are abhorrent.
They conjure memories of mass violence and stand in direct opposition to Kenya’s hard-won peace and stability. I condemn this language in the strongest possible terms. Our political discourse must never stoop to threats or dehumanization.

A Call for Unity and Truth
As Governor, I remain unwavering in my pledge to put Kenya—and all her people—ahead of partisan politics. I will continue to; Speak boldly on matters of security and governance, guided by facts and the public interest.

Secondly, Lead justly, ensuring every community in Trans-Nzoia feels heard, protected, and empowered and lastly, Serve diligently, with transparency and respect for the rule of law.
I invite all Kenyans—across ethnic, regional, and political divides—to reject hate, embrace truth, and work together for the prosperity and security of our nation.

Kisumu City institutes measures to curb harassment of investors by the inspectorate

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By Reporter

Kisumu City Board has apologized to developers over alleged harassment and extortion by officers from the City Planning and Inspectorate Department.

In a press statement signed by City Manager Mr. Abala Wanga, he apologized to the residents and stakeholders on behalf of Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o over the alleged vice.

Wanga wrote, “On behalf of the County Governor of Kisumu, Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o, and the entire County Government, I wish to sincerely apologize for the recent incidents involving staff of the City of Kisumu and other departments in the county, particularly from the Development Control and Compliance sections of the City Planning and Enforcement Directorate.

The City of Kisumu operates under strict legal and regulatory frameworks, and any official enforcement or inspection activities are conducted in full compliance with the existing laws and regulations.

It has come to our attention that certain employees under the Inspectorate Section have been harassing developers, investors, and business owners at construction sites, extorting money, confiscating tools of work, and even purporting to make arrests of workers at various construction sites.

We are also informed that the said staff have been operating without proper identification, including during weekends and public holidays, which is irregular.”

Abala said the City Board had taken drastic measures to curb the harassment by instituting various measures which include that all staff of the Inspectorate under the City of Kisumu shall have proper identification and proper uniform while undertaking such operations.

That all legitimate staff of the City of Kisumu from the Development Control and Compliance Section and the Inspectorate will operate within official working hours.

That any demands for payments, confiscation of items or working tools, or threats during enforcement by unverified persons should be reported immediately to the City Manager’s office or law enforcement agencies.

President Ruto’s Endorsement of “One China” The Policy That Shaped Modern Geopolitics is Bound to Rattle the West

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President ruto

By Billy Mijungu

In the winding alleys of Beijing’s old hutongs, where red lanterns sway above tiled rooftops and elders play mahjong beneath mulberry trees, one truth remains sacred: there is only one China. To the average Chinese citizen, this idea is not just state policy it is a cultural conviction and a historical inheritance passed down through generations. Yet, at the high tables of global diplomacy, that same idea has ignited tensions, delicate negotiations, and at times, the threat of war.

The One China policy dates back to the Chinese Civil War of the mid-20th century. When Mao Zedong’s Communist forces triumphed in 1949, the defeated Kuomintang KMT fled to the island of Taiwan. There, under Chiang Kai-shek, they continued to rule as the “Republic of China,” insisting they remained the legitimate government of all of China even as the Communist Party established the People’s Republic of China PRC on the mainland.

For decades, both entities claimed to be the true China. The global tide shifted in 1971 when the United Nations recognized the PRC as the official representative of China, replacing Taiwan’s seat. In 1979, the United States formalized relations with Beijing, acknowledging that there was only one China and that Taiwan was a part of it. Thus began the diplomatic doctrine known as the One China policy, indivisible and absolute from Beijing’s perspective.

While many countries, including the US, formally acknowledge the One China policy, they stop short of endorsing Beijing’s claim over Taiwan. The US maintains a position of strategic ambiguity. It does not recognize Taiwan as an independent nation, yet it supplies arms, engages in trade, and maintains unofficial relations through the American Institute in Taiwan.

This duality recognizing but not endorsing, acknowledging but not validating has defined Western policy for decades. Opposition to the policy has often been muted, but in recent years it has grown more vocal, especially as China becomes more assertive under President Xi Jinping.
Both Republican and Democratic administrations in the US have strengthened unofficial ties with Taiwan. Naval patrols through the Taiwan Strait, billions in arms sales, and high-profile visits by lawmakers signal one thing clearly: Taiwan is not alone.

For many in the West, Taiwan represents a democratic outpost resisting authoritarianism. It boasts open elections, press freedom, and civil liberties in stark contrast to China’s centralized one-party rule. Supporting Taiwan has thus become synonymous with supporting democratic values.

Western nations, especially the US, Japan, and segments of the EU, have deepened economic ties with Taiwan, particularly in semiconductors. Taiwan’s TSMC Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company is a global leader in chip manufacturing. This economic interdependence is seen as both strategic and symbolic.

China considers any challenge to the One China principle a direct threat to its sovereignty. It has warned repeatedly that formal Taiwanese independence would cross a red line, potentially triggering military conflict. From large-scale military drills and cyber-attacks to diplomatic isolation campaigns, Beijing employs a full suite of tools to pressure Taiwan and deter foreign interference. Ironically, the more aggressive Beijing becomes, the more international sympathy Taiwan seems to garner.

Today, the world lives with a contradiction: there is One China, and yet Taiwan functions independently. The One China policy has long held global diplomacy in balance. But with China’s rise and escalating US-China tensions, that balance is under strain.

On April 23, 2025, President William Ruto officially endorsed the One China policy, a move likely to rattle Western capitals. Ruto has embraced a version of strategic ambiguity previously seen only in Western diplomacy. But this time, he may have taken it a step too far for Washington’s comfort.

The immediate fallout was swift. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio abruptly canceled a scheduled visit to Kenya, a clear signal of displeasure. It is a diplomatic snub with potential ramifications. Kenya is a critical partner for the US in East Africa militarily, economically, and geopolitically. Whether this rift deepens or dissipates will depend on subsequent actions from both Nairobi and Washington.

It remains to be seen if the endorsement is firm in spirit or ambiguous to the extent of just being a meaty pronouncement, as many nations have done. Ruto’s endorsement is not just a foreign policy shift, it is a declaration of Kenya’s independent global stance. But it also exposes the fragility of small and middle powers navigating the complex, often contradictory currents of great-power rivalry.

Whether this gambit pays off or isolates Kenya on the international stage remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that President Ruto has placed Kenya squarely in the middle of one of the defining geopolitical fault lines of our time.
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Hope for Cancer Patients as Homa Bay Signs an MOU with Aga Khan Hospital

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Reprieve for Cancer Patients as Homa Bay Signs an MOU with Aga Khan Hospital
By Habil Onyango

The County Government of Homa Bay on Wednesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Aga Khan Hospital Kisumu for the East Africa Comprehensive Cancer Project (EA-CCP).

The project is set to significantly enhance and expand the quality, accessibility, and capacity of our cancer treatment services at the Homa Bay County Teaching and Referral Hospital.

It will focus on screening, vaccination, and treatment, including chemotherapy for breast and cervical cancer.

According to County Governor Gladys Wanga, the initiative will benefit not just Homa Bay but the entire region, marking a transformative milestone in our healthcare system.

“We extend our sincere appreciation to the Aga Khan Foundation, the French Development Agency (AFD), and the Gates Foundation for their crucial partnership in this vital project,” said Wanga.

Wanga revealed that at the moment, the County Department of Health is unable to provide chemotherapy services, but according to the program, they will be able to offer such services in the next three weeks.

“In the next three or so months, our Health Department will start offering chemo services for our people and others from other parts of the country,” she said.

“This is a very big step moving forward through the partnership with the Aga Khan Hospital, AFD, and the Gates Foundation,” said the Governor.

She, however, advised the locals to go for early screening of cancer for early detection, saying prevention is better than cure.

“As a County, we are implementing Universal Health Care where we are putting a lot of emphasis on Primary Health Care and Community Health, and we are happy with the program which will be supporting community engagement and sensitization and screening so that both cervical and breast cancer, which are common in the region, can be detected early to avoid unnecessary deaths,” said Wanga.

According to the Aga Khan Hospital Chief Executive Officer Jane Wanyama, the project is estimated to reach 1.8 million people.

She said that as partners, they will be participating in research programs which will give informed information to help in coming up with strategies that will improve the situation of cancer in Homa Bay and other parts of the country.

“We are excited that Her Excellency Governor Wanga, together with other County leadership, have assured us of their support in a journey towards tackling the cancer situation in this region,” said Ms. Wanyama.

“We have signed an MOU which shows our readiness to get started and be part of the County for the next four years, and we trust that at the end of the stipulated timelines, we will be able to look back and say indeed, we have been able to achieve what we really started by reaching out to over 1.8 million people in this region,” she said.

“We will work closely with the community, religious leaders, and the general public to raise awareness on cancer and the importance of early screening and early detection, which will lead to effective treatments for better outcomes,” she added.

Overview

Homa Bay faces challenges related to cancer, particularly Kaposi Sarcoma, an HIV-related cancer.

The county has a high HIV prevalence, which contributes to this burden.

While statistics on overall cancer incidence in Homa Bay are not readily available, a study indicated low breast cancer screening uptake among women, with 9.7 percent and 9.6 percent having undergone screening in an intervention and control group, respectively.

PRESIDENT RUTO’S GOVERNMENT AND KENYA’S PROSPECTS BEFORE THE NEXT ELECTIONS

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Raila

By Remmy Butia

President William Ruto’s administration, which took office in September 2022, has faced significant challenges and opportunities that will shape Kenya’s trajectory leading up to the next elections.

My analysis tends to examine the performance of Ruto’s government across key areas including economic management, political stability, social cohesion, and governance reforms, while assessing whether there’s genuine hope for Kenya’s future.

Political Landscape and Coalition Stability, President Ruto’s path to re-election in 2027 appears increasingly precarious due to mounting political challenges.

The ruling Kenya Kwanza Alliance has experienced significant fractures, with key partners like Ford Kenya refusing to dissolve into Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula’s Ford Kenya recently resolved to maintain its independence, rebrand as a youth-friendly party, and field candidates in upcoming by-elections – a direct challenge to UDA’s dominance.

The political landscape has been further complicated by:

The impeachment and subsequent fallout with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, which has strained relations with the critical Mt. Kenya voting bloc –

The emergence of the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) party by former Musalia Mudavadi allies threatened UDA’s influence in Western Kenya.

Opposition efforts to unite behind a single candidate, with figures like Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, and Eugene Wamalwa vowing to front a joint challenger.

Political analyst Prof. Gitile Naituli notes that while incumbency provides structural advantages, Ruto faces “several significant stumbling blocks that could undermine his bid if not addressed deftly and strategically”.

The ‘Ruto Must Go’ movement and calls for a one-term presidency have gained traction, particularly among youth and opposition leaders.

Economic Management and Fiscal Challenges, The Ruto administration’s economic policies have been a source of promise and profound public discontent.

While macroeconomic indicators show some positive trends -with GDP growing at 5.6% in 2023 and inflation falling to 2.8% by November 2024 – the government’s fiscal approach has sparked widespread protests.

Key economic developments include:

Controversial Taxation Policies: The proposed Finance Bill 2024, which included numerous new taxes, triggered nationwide youth-led protests that resulted in at least 39 deaths and forced Ruto to withdraw the legislation.

This created a $2.7 billion budget hole that the government plans to address through spending cuts (177 billion shillings) and increased borrowing (169 billion shillings).

Austerity Measures: Ruto announced drastic cuts, including dissolving 47 state corporations, reducing government advisers by 50%, suspending non-essential travel, and eliminating budget lines for presidential spouses.

While framed as necessary reforms, these measures risk further slowing economic activity. Debt Concerns: Kenya’s debt stands at over 70% of GDP, with Ruto ordering a forensic audit. The budget deficit is projected to rise to 4.6% of GDP in 2024/25 from an earlier 3.3% estimate, raising concerns about debt sustainability.

Despite these challenges, Ruto has projected optimism about economic reforms bearing fruit in 2025, promising stronger performance, more youth jobs, and higher farmer incomes.

The Kenyan shilling has strengthened significantly from 165 to 129 against the dollar between February and December 2024, and foreign exchange reserves have increased to $9.5 billion (five months of import cover).

Governance and Public TrustPublic trust in the Ruto administration has been severely tested by several governance crises:

1. Police Brutality: The violent response to anti-tax protests, including alleged abductions of activists, has drawn international condemnation. One activist, Osama Otero, described being taken by plainclothes officers at 3 a.m., blindfolded, and questioned. Ruto later apologised for such incidents but maintains that the protests were “hijacked by criminals”.

2. Corruption Allegations: Critics accuse the government of systemic corruption, with former officials like Rigathi Gachagua and Justin Muturi claiming public funds left by the Kenyatta administration have been misappropriated. The perception of corruption undermines public willingness to accept tax increases

3. Cabinet Reshuffles: Ruto’s dismissal and subsequent partial reinstatement of his cabinet (with 6 of 11 proposed ministers from the old team) has been viewed as insufficient reform by many Kenyans who expected a complete overhaul

Political analyst Dismas Mokua argues that Ruto needs to “abandon strategic visibility and embrace strategic communications” to better highlight his administration’s achievements and rebuild trust

Social Unrest and Youth Discontent

The Gen Z-led protests of 2024 represent perhaps the most significant challenge to Ruto’s leadership.

What began as opposition to tax policies evolved into a broader movement demanding governance reforms and even Ruto’s resignation.

This youth uprising—unaffiliated with traditional opposition structures – has created a volatile political dynamic that could reshape Kenya’s political landscape before the next elections.

Key factors driving youth discontent include:

High unemployment rates and limited economic opportunities

Perception of government insensitivity to public suffering- Frustration with political elites and demand for accountability

Digital mobilisation capabilities that bypass traditional political structures

Ruto has attempted to engage with youth through platforms like his X (Twitter) Space forum, but scepticism remains high.

The protests have demonstrated the potential power of this demographic to influence national politics outside conventional party frameworks.

Reform Agenda and Development Promises.

Despite these challenges, the Ruto administration has advanced several policy initiatives that could deliver tangible benefits if effectively implemented:

1. Universal Healthcare: The Taifa Care program aims to reduce medical costs through an inclusive public healthcare system.

2. Agricultural Reforms: Subsidised fertiliser distribution and productivity enhancements seek to boost food security and farmer incomes.

3. Education Reforms: Changes in basic and higher education are expected to “bear fruit, providing new momentum” for the sector.

4. Infrastructure Development: Projects like the Talanta Sports City have shown progress, with Ruto expressing satisfaction at construction advances.

However, critics like Alexander Chagema argue that Ruto may be deliberately creating despondency now to later “present himself as the messiah we have all been waiting for” as elections approach.

This theory suggests current hardships could be part of a calculated strategy to lower expectations before dramatic pre-election improvements.

Prospects for Kenya Before the Next ElectionsKenya stands at a crossroads with both significant challenges and opportunities in the period leading up to the next elections (potentially as early as 2026 if opposition figures like Jimi Wanjigi succeed in pushing for early polls ).

The country’s prospects hinge on several key factors: Reasons for Hope:

Strong macroeconomic fundamentals, including GDP growth, inflation control, and shilling stability

Potential for agricultural and manufacturing sector expansion

Youth engagement in governance issues creates pressure for reform

Continued democratic resilience despite tensions

Significant Challenges:

Political fragmentation within Kenya Kwanza and growing opposition unity

High debt levels and constrained fiscal space

Deep public distrust exacerbated by protest violence and alleged rights abuses

Unmet expectations in critical areas like employment and services

The coming months will be crucial in determining whether Ruto can stabilise his administration, deliver visible improvements in living standards, and rebuild fractured political alliances.

As Prof. Naituli notes, Ruto still has opportunities to “rebuild his Mt Kenya support, choose to stabilise his Kenya Kwanza coalition… deliver economic wins, and shape the narrative to control the ground.”

Ultimately, Kenya’s hope before the next elections depends on the government’s ability to transition from crisis management to delivering inclusive growth, while opposition actors must demonstrate they can offer a credible alternative.

The resilience of Kenya’s institutions and civil society, combined with an engaged citizenry, provide grounds for cautious optimism – but the path forward remains fraught with both political and economic uncertainties.

President Ruto repays Oburu with son’s appointment as Special Advisor

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By Reporter

President William Ruto has appointed a son of Siaya Senator Dr Oburu Oginga as one of his advisors.

Jaoko Oburu, a former county executive committee member in Siaya county government, was appointed as special advisor for economic empowerment and sustainable livelihood.

The appointment comes after a falling out between ODM leader Raila Odinga and Siaya Governor James Orengo, who was once a close ally but has become an ardent critic of the political pact between the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

Orengo has come under a barrage of criticism from ODM leadership led by Oburu, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi and Alego MP Sam Atandi, among others, for his opposition to the political pact between Ruto and Raila.

A section of the  ODM leadership and  Siaya Members of the County Assembly have been toying with a plot to impeach Orengo over his opposition to the political pact.

Jaoko wrote, captioned “My appointment as Special Advisor at the office of the president.

I take this opportunity to give special thanks to the president, William Ruto, for granting me the opportunity to serve Kenyans by appointing me to serve in the capacity of Special  Advisor, Economic Empowerment, and Sustainable Livelihoods.

My thanks goes also to the former prime minister, Raila Odinga, for showing his faith in me and for creating a conducive environment for Kenyans from all walks of life to work together  for our beloved  country.”

Currently, Oburu  leads the support broad based government and  President Ruto,  he recently told off members of Azimio Coalition over their opposition to ODM working with President Ruto.

Recently, during the burial of Raila’s aide, Oburu declared they were rightfully in the broad-based government and had no reason to pull out.

“We joined the broad-based government to help you stabilise 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 of our friends who think otherwise should also continue to think otherwise, and we will remain friends with them, but they should know that 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 gets its share of development,” he said.

Oburu also told the Mt Kenya residents at a funeral in Meru County that they were supporting President Ruto after they betrayed Raila in the last general election.

When he spoke, in front of Raila, Oburu talked about the betrayal by Mountain in the last presidential election and why he doesn’t regret being in the broad based government with President William Ruto.

Oburu said Raila made huge sacrifices to then President Uhuru Kenyatta in a hope that Mt Kenya would reciprocate  by supporting his presidential ambition but that went nought.

“ As things stand, we are in this government called  broad based  government. 

I am a member of a broad based government. 

Martha Karua has told me she is very far from broad based government. 

It is ok. 

Because we are friends, that doesn’t spoil  the friendship. 

Because we might be there and there, but tomorrow we are together.

So politics is like that, but I want to say that our country must remain united.

Raila is very big-hearted. 

You know, for five years, Raila supported Uhuru Kenyatta without asking Uhuru to give him ministers, to give him anything, because he wanted to bring the Mountain closer to us.

The government you supported, Raila, gave you unconditional support. 

And we were expecting that when Raila now stands for presidential candidate, the Mountain was going to come and give Raila a reciprocal treatment.

But as things stood out and as fate had it, that did not happen.

And, Uhuru Kenyatta warned you people and told you that you will cry.

Now, when you are crying, you want Raila to come and rescue you. How does he do it?  So we are a broad-based government, and we don’t regret it.

What we want to do is to have our country united and peaceful.

Let us continue. 

Elections will come and go. 

When those elections come, people will decide who to lead but for now we must be stable and we must stabilize the government of the day.

Kenya Joins World Superpowers in Critical Focus on Children’s Welfare Services

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By Billy Mijungu

Something happened and it won’t go unnoticed.

A fully fledged State Department for Children Welfare Services is under the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection.

The most important budget after security is children, be it school, household or state.

It brands the future, setting a firm foundation in health, social protection and education.

For an administration accused of so much, it deserves accolades for making this bold move.

A state department of focus, futuristic and results-based.

In this narration, I’m attempting to unpack in summary what it holds.

It is the hallmark of foundational social protection.

At the heart of it is CPA Carren Ageng’o Achieng, daughter of the larger Kadongo clan in Kisumu, with an illustrious career in accounting.

She must quickly reorient herself to give Kenyans her numbers of KPIS on how transformational her work will be.

Her day one didn’t disappoint.
She has a stellar, soft and relatable way of communicating.

Anyone in the social protection boardroom is said to have noticed her firm, instructional, child-friendly demeanour in text and speech, a suave blend of reading, speaking and gesturing laced with humour.

She was at ease, they say. Her boardroom demeanour was that of a mother clearly in her home.

This would be the State Agency to watch.

It carries a constitutional, legal and executive mandate that resonates deeply with the needs of our time.

From the Children Act 2022, the Constitution, to the Executive Order No. 2 of 2023, the Directorate is grounded and ready to act.

Its coverage of mandate is vast, from rescuing and reintegrating abandoned children, regulating rehabilitation centres and child institutions, inspecting living conditions, to operationalising legal procedures that touch on every child’s well-being.

The numbers and scale of the work are humbling.

Nearly half a million child protection cases have been managed in three years across the 47 counties through the Child Protection Information Management System, CPIMS.

The system not only helps track cases but also feeds into the Kenya Annual Economic Survey.

The national helpline 116 answered over 959,000 calls in 2024, resolving close to 100,000 child-related emergencies.

The department oversees 902 charitable children’s institutions serving over 45,000 children, manages rehabilitation schools, remand homes, rescue centres and even shelters for trafficking victims.

It handles programs such as the NICHE nutrition initiative, child protection volunteers, presidential bursaries for vulnerable children, alternative family care strategies, and child online safety.

The statistics and coverage demonstrate a far-reaching footprint.

In child rehabilitation alone, 2,300 children were served in statutory institutions last year, with 154 completing vocational programs.

The National Industrial Training Authority certifies these programs.

Meanwhile, over 120,000 cases of violence against children were addressed in 2024 through campaigns like Spot It Stop It.

The Directorate runs on a shoestring budget.

Sub-county offices operate on as little as Ksh 8,000 per quarter.

Despite this, officers carry out high-stakes interventions with courage and resilience, using public transport and sometimes their own resources.

They work in cramped offices, without proper ICT tools, and lack basic equipment to serve children with dignity.

Yet they do not stop.

Partners like UNICEF, USAID, UNODC, Save the Children, and many others play a crucial role.

But the ask is simple. Kenya must ring-fence the Directorate’s budget.

Let us match commitment with capacity.

The call to action includes funding legal guideline development, care reform rollout, bursary expansion, ICT upgrades, staffing and institutional refurbishment.

For once, Kenya has elevated the child to the status of national asset.

It is a story of commitment, structure and foresight.

It is also a story of how systems, when backed by political will, can protect the future one child at a time.

And that is a power move.

A letter to my next Governor of Kisumu County: Prioritize the Development of a Physical Health Bill

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Dr Edris Omondi (Advocate)

attorneyedris@ywcg.org

(Strategic Thinker, Author, Motivational Speaker, Preacher and a Lawyer)

I come to you not just as a concerned citizen, but as someone who has battled obesity firsthand, with limited success. Whether out of genes or life style injection of it, it is real within my community. The Luo Community.

For years, I have tried various diets, workouts, and wellness trends. I’ve joined gyms, walked through the parks of Kisumu, and even tried home-based routines. But like many in our county, the battle is bigger than me. It is a structural problem. One rooted in our current lifestyles, poor nutrition, limited access to professional physical training, and poverty.

We Are Sitting on a Health Time Bomb

Recent statistics from the Kenya STEP wise Survey (2021) revealed that over 27% of Kenyan adults are overweight, and 8% are obese. In urban counties like Kisumu, this figure is likely higher. Among the 30 to 50-year-olds—the most economically active group—the numbers are staggering, with up to 35% showing unhealthy weight levels.

Obesity is no longer a cosmetic issue—it’s a health crisis.

Mortality rates from obesity-related conditions are rising, including:

  • Hypertension
  • Type 2 Diabetes
  • Heart disease
  • Certain cancers
  • Stroke

All of these diseases are now showing up earlier than ever before—crippling families and stretching our already burdened health system.

Why Are We Becoming an Obese County?

Diet: Due to persistent poverty, many families subsist on affordable, carb-heavy meals like ugali, mandazi, white rice, and chapati. Proteins, fruits, and vegetables remain a luxury.

Physical inactivity: A lack of affordable and accessible physical activity infrastructure discourages movement.

Urbanization: More time is spent commuting, sitting, and working, with little to no time dedicated to movement.

What Can Be Done: A Physical Health Bill for Kisumu County

Governor, your leadership could be transformative. If you prioritize a Physical Health Bill, you would not only address a growing health threat—you would create a healthier, stronger, and more economically productive population. Be the first of the Governors to lead by examples, this alone if well implemented will create jobs for our young one, enhance inter-generational relations and equity between the old and the young and off course secure you a second term.

Here’s what this bill could include:

1. Public Social Sports Halls in Every Sub-County

  1. Government-run, free to the public and professionally managed by certified fitness instructors and health educators
  1. Equipped with basic fitness gear and open space for aerobics, dance, and calisthenics
  1. Youth-targeted weekend programs and after-work adult sessions

2. Upgrade and Green Public Parks

  1. Secure, clean, and well-lit pathways for morning and evening walks.
  1. Regular community sports events like 5K runs, soccer leagues, and Zumba sessions
  1. Outdoor gym installations in existing parks

3. Nutrition and Wellness Education

  1. County-run mobile clinics or community health units to educate on balanced diets using locally available foods
  1. Incorporate healthy eating into the curriculum of primary and secondary schools
  1. Partner with local markets to subsidize fruits and vegetables for low-income families

4. Incentives for Participation

  1. Health tracking apps or cards that reward regular participation
  1. Partner with NHIF to offer insurance discounts for active citizens

Examples of Success

Rwanda: The “Car-Free Day” movement in Kigali—combined with mass aerobic sessions—has seen a rise in community physical activity and early health screenings.

Bogotá, Colombia: The “Ciclovía” program closes streets to cars every Sunday, allowing free movement for cyclists and joggers. This reduced obesity and improved community cohesion.

Cape Town, South Africa: Community gyms in Khayelitsha and other low-income areas are helping residents stay active at no cost.

Why This Matters for Kisumu

The question isn’t whether we can afford to invest in physical health—the real question is, can we afford not to? Obesity-related diseases are more expensive to treat than to prevent. Healthy citizens are productive citizens. And a fit Kisumu is a future-ready Kisumu.

My future Governor, your leadership on this matter will not only win votes—it will win hearts, and ultimately, lives- You will have my vote if this will be your priority clarion call.

From Sellotape to Seamless Service: A Digital Surprise at the Cyber Café

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By Dr. Edris Omondi (Advocate)

attorneyedris@ywcg.org

(Strategic Thinker, Author, Motivational Speaker, Preacher and a Lawyer)

I am in the Coastal town of Mombasa for Easter. I get a friend to get me a vehicle for the ease of my movement. I realised I needed to renew my license, noticing a contingent of traffic police officer in Mombasa had been stopping literally all vehicles inspecting their compliance. I strolled into a small cybercafé tucked away in one of Bamburi dusty lanes. I had one mission: patch up my old, red-covered driving license that was slowly giving up on life. It was torn, weathered, and held together more by memory than material. I asked for some black sellotape—yes, the kind used to seal envelopes—to do some roadside first aid.

But then it hit me. When was the last time I actually renewed my driving license? I have been driving in my town actually oblivious of the last renewal!

I asked the cyber attendant if he could help me renew the same as he patched my license from the eCitizen portal. He smiled, the kind of smile that tells you something unexpected is coming. “When did you last renew this?” he asked.

My heart skipped. A few clicks later, we discovered the truth: my license had done two year of non-renewal!  I was stunned. I had been driving all over the place for two years—with an expired document! It was a miracle; I did not get on the wrong side of the law as much as I failed to remit Caesar’s due. I thanked God for my ‘chi’ I escaped fines and interest which is a norm now, for such delays.

But what happened next was even more remarkable.

The cyber guy went ahead, retrieved my information, processed the renewal digitally, printed the new version, and laminated it. All in under 10 minutes!

I stood there, shocked—not because it happened, but because it happened that fast. In Kenya!

A Quiet Digital Revolution

In a country where many citizens have grown accustomed to bureaucracy, inefficiency, and the infamous phrase “hii file yako bado haijapatikana,” this was a refreshing surprise.

The eCitizen portal, an initiative of Kenya’s digital transformation agenda, has slowly begun to prove its worth. From driving licenses to business registrations and passport applications, Kenyans can now access several key government services from anywhere in the country—without middlemen, long queues, or shady “kitu kidogo” demands.

Why Digitization Matters

This experience got me thinking: what if every service in Kenya worked this well?

Here’s what widespread digital access can do:

Cut down corruption: When transactions are traceable, the space for bribery shrinks. No more gatekeepers hoarding your documents.

Increase efficiency: Time wasted in queues or chasing signatures could be redirected toward productive economic activity.

Enhance access for all: Whether you’re in Nairobi or Seme Sub County where I come from, internet connectivity becomes your passport to government services.

Success Stories to Learn From

Rwanda has digitized over 95% of its government services through the Irembo platform. Citizens there can register births, apply for permits, and renew licenses online—no need to travel or pay extra fees to the capital Kigali.

In Estonia, citizens can vote, pay taxes, and access healthcare entirely online. Their digital identity system is a global benchmark in e-governance.

India’s Aadhaar system links every citizen to a unique ID, streamlining access to welfare programs, banking, and subsidies—drastically reducing fraud.

Kenya’s Path Forward

If Kenya can replicate the simplicity and speed I experienced with my license renewal, we could radically transform how people interact with government. Imagine:

  • An election in Kenya that is completely digitalized using Internet of Things.
  • A digitized land registry to finally clean up title deed fraud
  • Online health records that move with the patient
  • Digital school admissions to eliminate corruption and confusion
  • Police e-reporting systems to enhance security response and trust

From Miracles to Normalcy

My experience at that cyber should not feel miraculous—it should be routine. We are on the cusp of something great if we stay the course.

Digitizing consumer services may just be the best gift Kenya can give its citizens.

So, to whoever is listening—policy makers, county heads, national leaders—scale up what is working. Keep building. Keep connecting. Keep believing.

Because if one small café in Bamburi, Mombasa County can turn sellotape panic into a digital win, imagine what Kenya could look like if the whole country came online.

Trump’s Tariffs: Wading Into the Unknown

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By Billy Mijungu

Interestingly, Donald Trump’s chief economic adviser, Peter Kent Navarro, believes that Trump can ride the trade war on tariffs to victory.

Yet this war on all fronts may not augur well for the United States.

Traditional markets like the European Union are getting fatigued.

As a result, Trump’s aggressive policies may give new impetus to the growth of BRIC nations at a rate not previously envisaged.

While Trump is busy erecting tariff walls, BRICS is building bridges through de-dollarisation campaigns. As the United States tightens its grip, others are exploring how to bypass it entirely.

The market suffers in the process, with Trump’s trade policies sending ripples across the globe, leading to mounting financial anxiety.

That anxiety, I believe, is no accident.

Trump and his cabal of ultrawealthy elites, seemingly coordinated by the likes of Elon Musk, appear to be engineering a financial disruption.

Their play seems targeted at Wall Street’s 150th floor, buying up stock at rock bottom prices during induced volatility, then cashing in as markets recover.

For them, a U.S. recession is not a crisis; it’s an opportunity.

Yet, if poorly handled, this tariff war could become Trump’s Waterloo.

It could be the self-inflicted wound that brings his administration down.

For investors with assets outside the U.S., however, this may present an opportunity.

With traditional power centres stumbling, it could be the right moment to explore business opportunities in emerging economies, diversify portfolios, and seek financial grounding in less volatile territories.

President Trump has long claimed that other countries have been ripping off the U.S., even as the nation enjoyed strong growth.

His administration has imposed tariffs of 25 per cent on steel and aluminium, another 25 per cent on noncompliant goods from Mexico and Canada, and a staggering 145 per cent duty on Chinese imports.

Cars, auto parts, and a range of consumer goods have also been affected by new tariffs. This unpredictability has destabilised the global business environment.

Tariffs are announced, then walked back, then doubled down on, leaving businesses and entire countries in policy limbo.

According to Moody’s Ratings, Trump’s tariffs are likely to slow global economic growth significantly.

The Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell himself called these very fundamental policy changes with no modern precedent, a remark that triggered a slump in U.S. stock markets.

Confidence is evaporating, and not just in the U.S.

The world is recalibrating. China has strategically shifted some of its focus away from the U.S. by strengthening ties with Europe and diversifying its trading partners.

The European Union, under the leadership of Ursula von der Leyen, has made it clear that the West as we knew it no longer exists. With nearly 19 trillion dollars in GDP, the EU remains a formidable bloc.

Canada, Mexico, and India are all increasing their trade with Europe, drawn by its predictability and rule-based trade systems.

South East Asia is also pivoting quickly. Countries like Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia are ramping up engagement with both the U.S. and China, trying to avoid being collateral damage.

But they remain wary of becoming pawns in this geopolitical chess game.

Their economies are intricately tied to both superpowers, yet increasingly assertive in protecting local industries from being swamped by redirected Chinese goods.

Vietnam has slapped temporary antidumping duties on Chinese steel.

Malaysia has emerged as the world’s leading producer of rubber gloves, poised to benefit from Trump’s punitive tariffs on China.

Now, the question arises: where does Africa stand in this grand reshuffling?

Africa sits at a precarious yet potentially pivotal crossroads. While it is not directly targeted in Trump’s tariff agenda, the ripple effects are felt across the continent.

African exports may face stiff competition as global goods, especially cheap Chinese products, flood non-US markets.

This could stifle local industries that are still in their infancy and intensify dependency on external value chains.

But in this turbulence lies opportunity.

With the African Continental Free Trade Area (Afcfta) gaining momentum, Africa could position itself as a neutral trade zone, capable of attracting investment from both the East and West.

To do this, the continent must accelerate infrastructure development, enhance intra-African trade, and reduce its reliance on raw exports.

Africa must act decisively, not as a passive bystander but as an emerging player seeking to define its own economic destiny.

As Southeast Asia reaps unintended gains from Trump’s tariffs, Africa must ask itself whether it will continue to watch from the sidelines or seize this global moment to chart a new course.

Trump may want his tariffs to reset the world, but in the process, he may also be redrawing the economic map in ways that no one, not even his closest advisers, can fully control.

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