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Acting KSB CEO Jude Chesire elected as vice Chairman of the International Sugar Organisation. (ISO), in London.

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The Acting CEO of the Kenya Sugar Board, Jude Chesire
The Acting CEO of the Kenya Sugar Board, Jude Chesire

By Reporter 

The Acting CEO of the Kenya Sugar Board, Mr Jude Chesire, has made history by being elected Vice Chairman of the Council of the International Sugar Organization (ISO) in London.

Mr Chesire was selected during the Council meeting held on 29 November 2024 at Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London. The meeting was attended by leading global experts in the sugar industry.

This marks the first time that Kenya and Africa have held such a prestigious position since the establishment of the ISO in 1968.

The ISO also elected Mr Edgar Herrera from Costa Rica as Chairman of the organisation, succeeding Mr Sanjiv Chopra from India, who previously held the position.

With this election, Mr Chesire is also poised to become Chairman of the ISO Council in 2026, further solidifying Kenya’s and Africa’s influence in the global sugar sector.

The ISO Council, which serves as the highest decision-making body in the world sugar sector, consists of 114 member countries, including major sugar producers such as Brazil, India, the EU, Thailand, the UK, South Africa, and Australia.

Collectively, these countries produce 165 million tonnes of sugar and hundreds of millions of tonnes of ethanol annually.

This new leadership role provides Kenya and Africa with a unique opportunity to shape the future of the global sugar industry, particularly in making critical decisions on sugar pricing, trade policies, and sustainable practices in sugar and ethanol production.

Mr Chesire’s appointment places Kenya in a strategic position to influence key decisions in the global sugar industry.

His leadership will enable him to contribute to essential deliberations on global sugar prices, helping to prevent market distortions and ensuring better control over the import and export of sugar.

This development significantly enhances Kenya’s influence on the international stage.

“I am elated and deeply grateful to the ISO Council. I never expected this, and I thank God for the honour bestowed upon me and my country,” said Mr Chesire.

The Vice Chairman of the ISO Council plays a critical role in the governance of the International Sugar Organization (ISO).

The government closes down 348 boarding sections of primary schools that have failed safety standards

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Dr. Belio Kipsang, CBS
Principal Secretary, State Department for Basic Education Dr. Belio Kipsang, CBS

By Anderson Ojwang

The government has directed the closure of all 348 boarding sections of primary schools that have failed to comply with safety measures.

In a circular issued by the Permanent Secretary, State Department of Basic Education, Dr Bellio Kipsang instructed regional, county, and sub-county directors of education to close institutions found to have contravened the safety measures.

“An assessment exercise to determine the level of compliance with safety standards in all boarding primary schools in the country was conducted in September and October 2024.

The assessment established that some institutions had grossly contravened the Safety Standards Manual for Schools in Kenya (2008).

Furthermore, these institutions failed to adhere to the standards prescribed in the Registration Guidelines for Basic Education Institutions (2021).

A total of 348 institutions assessed were consequently not approved to host boarding learners.

The purpose of this circular is, therefore, to direct you to close the boarding sections of schools within your jurisdiction that have not been approved, as per the attached list.

Reopening of the boarding sections should be strictly subject to a pre-registration process.

You are required to ensure that affected parents are informed in good time to make alternative arrangements for their children,” read the circular from the PS, dated 27 November 2024.

In the Central region, Kiambu County recorded the highest number of affected schools, with 13, followed by Murang’a with five, Nyandarua with three, and Kirinyaga with two.

In the Eastern region, Kitui led with 24 affected schools, followed by Tharaka Nithi with 19, Machakos with 16, Meru with 11, Makueni with 10, and Embu with seven.

In the Coast region, Kwale had seven affected schools, Tana River had five, while Mombasa and Taita Taveta each had two, and Kilifi recorded one.

In the Nairobi region, 48 schools were closed.

In the North Eastern region, 11 schools were affected in Garissa.

In the Nyanza region, Kisii County had 18 schools closed, Kisumu had eight, and Migori had five.

In the Western region, Bungoma County had eight cases, Busia had five, and Kakamega had three schools affected.

In the Rift Valley region, Kericho County led with 27 affected schools, followed by Uasin Gishu with 20, and Nandi and Narok, each with 11. Nakuru recorded six cases. Other affected counties in the region included Bomet (8), Elgeyo-Marakwet (7), Trans Nzoia (7), Narok (3), Kajiado (3), Laikipia (3), and Baringo (1).

Last September, 18 boys tragically lost their lives, and 27 others were injured after a fire razed a dormitory at Hillside Endarasha in Nyeri County, Central region.

ACK Maseno East Diocese gets new bishop

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Reverend CPA Benard Enos Otieno Owuor
Reverend CPA Benard Enos Otieno Owuor

By Reporter

In a historic and momentous decision, Reverend CPA Benard Enos Otieno Owuor has been elected as the new Bishop-elect of the Maseno East Diocese.

In a recent election, which witnessed a spirited contest between three esteemed candidates, Owuor emerged as the victor.

The election process, conducted under the guidance of the Anglican Church of Kenya Provincial Constitution, saw The Ven. Hannington Oluoch Ondiek and The Ven. Benard Okullo also seeking God’s will to serve in this higher calling.

The keenly awaited results were met with joy and celebration as Rev. Owuor received the majority vote, securing his appointment as the new spiritual leader of the See of Maseno East.

The bishop polls were presided over by the Most Rev. Dr Jackson Ole Sapit, ACK Archbishop, assisted by Tom Onyango, Provincial Chancellor, and Charles Dulo, Diocesan Chancellor assisting the Provincial Chancellor.

“The elections are over, and now we are called upon to forget the polls and concentrate on building the Lord’s sanctuary,” said Archbishop Ole Sapit.

He wished the new Bishop-elect success in his higher calling.

“Now go and serve all with humility, without bias. Be the epitome of unity in the church. Bring everyone together to rise above the elections and support the Lord,” said Archbishop Ole Sapit.

Rev. Owuor, who brings a wealth of experience in both ministry and accounting, has served in various capacities within the Church and the community.

His vision for the diocese focuses on spiritual growth, community development, and unity within the church.

Owuor’s election marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Maseno East Diocese. He will succeed the outgoing bishop, the Rt. Rev. Dr Joshua Owiti, during a time of exciting opportunities and challenges for the Church and the country at large.

The election process was characterised by prayer, unity, and a commitment to God’s will, with all the candidates demonstrating remarkable leadership, humility, and dedication to the Church’s mission under the guidance of Archbishop Ole Sapit.

As the Diocese looks forward to a fresh season of leadership under Bishop-elect Owuor, prayers and support from the faithful will be crucial in helping the new bishop lead with wisdom, integrity, and compassion.

The Ven. Hannington Oluoch Ondiek and the Ven. Benard Okullo, despite their defeat, were praised for their grace and commitment to the mission of the Church.

Their ongoing roles and contributions will continue to be valued within the diocese.

The consecration and enthronement of the new bishop are eagerly anticipated by the members of the Maseno East Diocese, who are excited to welcome Reverend Owuor into his new role.

ODM and UDA infights a catch for President Ruto’s 2027 political matrix

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By Anderson Ojwang

The political bromance between President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga is facing an acid test in Nyanza as wrangles and infighting between the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) intensify and turn bare-knuckle.

While President Ruto and Raila might be reading from the same script, their representatives have embarked on a fierce battle of supremacy that could affect the 2027 political agenda. The suspicion and fear surrounding the 2027 general elections are so entrenched that ODM has yet to integrate members of Parliament who shifted to support President Ruto before the formation of the Broad-Based Government.

In a recent viral clip, Kisumu Senator Prof. Tom Ojienda was allegedly removed from an ODM roundtable discussion attended by Raila over claims that he was no longer a party member after opting to work with President Ruto.

ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga recently stated that the rebels were welcome back but must be vetted and cleansed before reintegration into the fold. “The ODM party leadership has relaxed its firm stance against the perceived rebel Members of Parliament, who were sanctioned after a meeting with President William Ruto in February 2023. The rebel MPs are now welcome back to the party, but must be effectively vetted and subjected to proper political cleansing,” Governor Wanga said during a recent reunion party in Bondo hosted by Raila.

Raila had in 2020 called for the punishment of renegade MPs who worked with President Ruto, leading to disciplinary actions against legislators including Prof. Ojienda, Caroli Omondi (Suba South), Elisha Odhiambo (Gem), Mark Nyamita (Uriri), Paul Abuor (Rongo), Felix Jalang’o Odiwuor (Lang’ata), and Gideon Ochanda (Bondo).

ODM’s National Executive Committee expelled five of these MPs after the party determined their actions went against the official party position. Interestingly, Ojienda and Nyamita have expressed interest in the gubernatorial seats for Kisumu and Migori, respectively, and have launched campaigns that have unsettled the regime.

Siaya Governor James Orengo said at the same function that the rebel MPs were welcome but must take a back seat when returning to the party. Migori Governor Ochilo Ayacko emphasised the need to strengthen the ODM party, reiterating that it must remain strong despite its working relationship with the Kenya Kwanza administration.

Chairman of the Lake Victoria South Water Works and Development Board, Mr Odoyo Owidi, remarked that after successful UDA elections in Nyanza—a first for an opposition party in the region—the ODM brigade became alarmed and embarked on a supremacy battle with UDA lieutenants on the ground. “The fear of the 2027 general elections, where the battlefield may be open and electorates allowed to elect leaders of their choice, is what is creating the infighting. Those who have relied on the party ticket are in panic mode and are creating baseless fights,” he said.

Odoyo wondered why Wanga and other ODM leaders were fighting UDA while the immediate former top party leadership had been appointed to the government and were supporting President Ruto’s 2027 bid. “The supremacy battle is not healthy for President Ruto’s 2027 agenda. ODM must accept the changing political dynamics in the country and be ready to accommodate opponents in its backyard. Nothing is static, and change can never be stopped. Our agenda is to give President Ruto the much-needed vote in 2027,” he added.

Governor Orengo recently called on ODM to move out of the Broad-Based Government, warning that it was making the party unpopular and could have severe consequences in the 2027 general elections. Orengo had earlier criticised the idea of ODM joining President William Ruto’s administration, terming it “an abomination, a disaster, and something that cannot work.”

Speaking at the burial of the late Oloo Aringo, Orengo said, “I want to believe that members in parliament and those in government will learn from Aringo, and when something is wrong, you must say it is wrong. We are being made dirty by swine because we have sacrificed.”

MP Ongondo Were has maintained that ODM cannot merge with and work under UDA, emphasising that Nyanza remains ODM’s stronghold.

Meanwhile, Odoyo Owidi dismissed ODM leaders as individuals pursuing personal interests rather than the community’s welfare. “The fear of losing elections in a fair competition is causing ODM MPs sleepless nights. They know that without the party and Raila, they are crippled politically. That is why they have started petty wars to hoodwink voters,” he said.

ODM Gears Up for 2027 Presidential Race with Renewed Strategies and Grassroots Reforms

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ODM to election officials verifies details of the party national chairperson Gladys Wanga before participating in the grassroots polls at Alara Korayo primary school in Kochia,Rangwe constituency on November 27,2024
ODM to election officials verifies details of the party national chairperson Gladys Wanga before participating in the grassroots polls at Alara Korayo primary school in Kochia,Rangwe constituency on November 27,2024

By Reporter

The ODM party is preparing to fight in the 2027 presidential election following the successful completion of its grassroots elections.

National Chairperson Gladys Wanga stated that the party is repositioning itself for the future and strengthening its structures.

“The turnout by party members to participate in the exercise signifies that ODM is still popular compared to other political parties across the country,” said Wanga.

According to Wanga, the grassroots polls were part of the party’s strategy to build its foundation and enhance readiness for the 2027 general election, with the ultimate goal of clinching the presidency.

ODM has participated in four general elections, with its leader Raila Odinga on the presidential ballot in each instance. Despite not securing the presidency in the past, Wanga expressed confidence in the party’s renewed approach.

“The grassroots polls were done with the sole objective of ODM capturing power in 2027. Maturity has been demonstrated after members participated in a peaceful exercise,” she said.

Speaking at Alara Korayo Primary School in Kochia, Rangwe Constituency, after participating in the elections, Wanga declared that ODM is destined to form the next government.

She revealed that the party is going back to the drawing board to devise feasible strategies aimed at securing victory in 2027.

“We are coming up with new strategies to capture power in the forthcoming general election,” Wanga announced.

She urged party officials to revitalise the party and make it more vibrant and appealing to voters to ensure success in the next polls.

Wanga emphasised that ODM is addressing the irregularities that have previously marred internal elections.

The Homa Bay governor hinted at the possibility of ODM forming a coalition with other political parties but noted that such discussions would take place at a later stage.

Ends…

Kuria Residents Applaud Creation of New Administrative Units to Boost Local Governance and Development

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MAISORI MARWA KEMERO KITAYAMA

By Reporter

Residents of Kuria East and West in Migori County have expressed their deep gratitude to the government for the creation of 22 new administrative units in the region.

Led by their MP, Marwa Kitayama, they specifically thanked President William Ruto, Deputy President and former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr Kithure Kindiki, and PS Interior Dr Omollo, who had made the promise to expand administrative units. They also acknowledged Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi for gazetting 578 new administrative units across Kenya, including 27 sub-counties, 59 divisions, 170 locations, and 322 sub-locations.

Kuria East gained 16 new units and West received 6, making them the largest beneficiaries in the county. Other constituencies in the county were allocated between 3 to 5 new units.

Kitayama highlighted that the establishment of these new units would enhance local economic opportunities and decentralise the distribution of services, benefiting both residents and the wider community.

The people of Kuria East, along with other regions benefiting from the initiative, expressed their heartfelt appreciation, recognising the government’s commitment to improving service delivery and creating wealth through better resource allocation.

Other counties, including Kisumu, Siaya, and Homa Bay, also celebrated the creation of additional administrative units. Nyando MP Jared Okello welcomed the establishment of the Kadibo division.

“These administrative units will enhance service delivery to our people, and we thank the state for delineating new boundaries,” said Okello.

Kennedy Ongati, a resident of Homa Bay, noted that the new devolved units would spur economic growth in rural communities.

Kuria residents acknowledged President Ruto’s leadership in this transformative initiative, expressing their gratitude.

Kitayama emphasised that the creation of the new administrative units would significantly accelerate economic growth at the village level. He encouraged residents to fully embrace the benefits of these developments by actively participating in local economic activities.

Kitayama further urged the community to reciprocate their appreciation for the government’s efforts during the 2027 general elections by supporting leaders who have worked to improve livelihoods and foster regional progress.

Kuria West MP Mathias Robi underscored the importance of creating new administrative units, noting their role in governance, resource allocation, and regional development.

“As Kenya approaches the next boundaries review by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), the focus on creating new administrative units becomes even more critical,” said Kitayama.

Okello echoed Kitayama’s sentiments, highlighting how new administrative units in regions with large populations or vast geographic areas bring services closer to the people.

“Local governments can better cater to the unique needs of their communities, whether in education, healthcare, infrastructure, or security,” said Okello.

Kitayama also explained the broader benefits of redrawing boundaries, such as promoting balanced development across the country and addressing historical marginalisation.

“New administrative units will ensure that resources are allocated more fairly, especially to historically marginalised or less developed areas,” said Kitayama.

He observed that smaller administrative units allow for targeted development projects, improving infrastructure, public services, and overall living conditions.

Kitayama noted that these units would promote social cohesion and political stability, ensuring adequate representation for minority groups and addressing ethnic tensions.

“By balancing population sizes and ensuring fair representation, new boundaries can reduce dominance by a single ethnic group in certain areas, which has been a source of political conflict,” he explained.

Kitayama also pointed out that well-defined constituencies foster stronger voter engagement and fairer elections.

“People feel a stronger connection to their local representatives, increasing voter turnout and the legitimacy of elections,” he said.

Redrawing boundaries reflects current population sizes and demographics, reducing voter irregularities and gerrymandering while ensuring a more democratic electoral process.

“By addressing areas with low voter registration or participation, new administrative units can ensure that all eligible citizens are included in the voting process,” added Kitayama.

Ends…

Ruth Odinga Calls for Active Oversight Role by MCAs

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Ruth-Odinga

By Reporter

Kisumu County Member of Parliament, Ruth Odinga, has urged Members of County Assemblies (MCAs) to actively fulfil their oversight responsibilities.

She criticised some MCAs for aligning too closely with the Executive, thereby neglecting their crucial role in holding governors accountable.

Ruth also pointed out that some MCAs are preoccupied with campaigning for higher political positions, such as MPs or Senate seats, which further detracts from their primary oversight duties.

Ruth emphasised the importance of MCAs in ensuring that governors are accountable for the projects they undertake with the Sh8 to Sh9 billion allocated to counties each financial year.

She stressed that effective oversight is essential for transparency and good governance and that MCAs must prioritise their responsibilities to the public over personal political ambitions.

Her call to action highlights the need for MCAs to remain vigilant and dedicated to their roles in order to ensure that county governments operate efficiently and in the best interests of the citizens.

She spoke at Kibuye Catholic Church in Kisumu.

Ruth emphasised the importance of MCAs fulfilling their oversight responsibilities.

She questioned how they could effectively oversee the state and hold it to account if elected to Parliament or improve governance in counties if elected to the Senate, given their current performance.

Ruth stressed that MCAs must hold governors accountable for the projects they undertake with the billions allocated to counties each financial year.

This accountability is crucial for ensuring transparency and good governance, and MCAs must prioritise their oversight role to serve the public effectively.

Ruth also criticised some MCAs for forgetting their primary oversight roles and instead turning into “sangwenya,” a term used to describe party youth who chase after wealthy politicians for personal gain.

She emphasised that this behaviour undermines their moral tenets and responsibility to hold governors accountable and ensure that the allocated funds are used effectively for the benefit of the public.

Ruth’s call to action highlights the need for MCAs to prioritise their duties and maintain integrity in their roles.

Ends…

Diaspora Investment Conference will focus on skills transfer and labour migration.

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By Reporter

An investment conference slated for next month will focus on skills transfer and labour migration of Kenyans.

The conference seeks to host Kenyans living abroad and investors from various sectors of the economy.

The annual investment meeting organised by the Kenya Diaspora Alliance will this year explore the opportunities that lie abroad for Kenyans seeking greener pastures outside the country.

The Kenya Diaspora Alliance Chairman, Dr Shem Ochuodho, on Monday, said this year’s meeting comes at an opportune time when the government was grappling with the idea of exporting labour abroad; hence, knowing the set skills needed outside the country is valuable.

“There is a pressing need for countries, especially developing nations like Kenya, to adapt and evolve to ensure resilience, sustainability, and economic prosperity. The Kenyan diaspora, with its diverse wealth of knowledge, skills, and networks, plays a pivotal role in this transformation,” said Ochuodho.

To harness the skills and knowledge of the Kenyan diaspora for technology exchange, technical assistance, career upgrades, and economic resilience, Dr Ochuodho said the hybrid meeting will also aim at promoting climate resilience and sustainability in the development of Kenya by leveraging technology and innovation.

“To explore avenues for economic transformation and growth for prosperity through diaspora engagement and investment, we are aiming to foster collaboration and exchange between and among the diaspora, academia, research, professionals, government, private sector, and civil society,” added Dr Ochuodho.

The 11th Annual Kenya Diaspora Homecoming Convention is scheduled for December 9 to 11 at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Nairobi.

The diaspora lobby noted that Kenyans in the diaspora have been at the forefront of Foreign Direct Investments in Kenya, with them remitting a whopping USD 4.19 billion (KES 670 billion) in 2023. This sum is expected to increase in the coming years as they learn of more ways to invest in the country.

“The Convention aims to bring together a host of government leaders and representatives, private sector leaders, civil society specialists, business entrepreneurs, academics, and students all focused on contributing to the Kenyan economy.”

The Convention aims to culminate in a comprehensive action plan that outlines clear strategies and initiatives for harnessing the potential of the Kenyan diaspora in driving resilience and growth in the 5th Industrial Era.

According to its organisers, a commitment to ongoing and deepened collaboration and engagement among all stakeholders will be emphasised.

Sessions will explore how diasporans can leverage their knowledge, skills, prowess, and experience to accelerate technology transfer, upgrade their careers, and contribute to building a resilient Kenyan workforce ready to tackle the challenges and harness opportunities of the 5th Industrial Era.

“The session will also focus on manufacturing of key elements, especially in the agro-processing, extractive, and semiconductor industries for the success of the 5th Industrial Era,” Ochuodho added.

According to the organisers, with the notably escalating impacts of climate change, discussions will delve into sustainable practices, renewable energy, and green technologies that diasporans can introduce to Kenya. This segment aims to highlight innovative solutions for water conservation, agriculture, and urban planning. It shall also explore climate finance, carbon trading, climate mitigation, as well as adaptation. Participants will interact with new laws and regulations, both at national and county levels.

Tech-novation sessions will showcase the latest technological advancements and innovative solutions that can drive and accelerate Kenya’s development and transformation.

Topics will include artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), coding, the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, cloud computing, e-commerce, fintech, and cybersecurity, with a focus on how these can be utilised for social and economic transformation.

The conference comes at a time when the government is set to roll out a major labour recruitment drive starting 18 November through to 6 December, aimed at connecting Kenyans with job opportunities abroad.

The announcement was made following a Cabinet meeting chaired by President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi, which unveiled a list of countries where Kenyans will be seeking employment.

These include Germany, Austria, Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Northern Ireland, in addition to Gulf nations such as Saudi Arabia, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait.

According to a Cabinet dispatch, the Ministry of Labour will be holding recruitment drives in every county during the designated period.

The jobs on offer will cover a broad spectrum of professional, skilled, and unskilled positions, including nurses, aged-care workers, and teachers in critical subjects like science, mathematics, English, and physical education.

“At the meeting, the Cabinet was informed that the Ministry of Labour has organised job recruitment drives in every county over the coming weeks,” the dispatch stated in part.

“These recruitment efforts are part of a broader strategy to connect Kenyans with employment opportunities both within the region and globally.”

The briefing also highlighted the success of Kenya’s ongoing labour export programme.

Since July 2023, a total of 105,367 Kenyans have secured jobs abroad, with 16,943 people cleared for employment since January 2024 alone, according to the government.

President William Ruto has been vocal about increasing Kenyan labour exports as part of the government’s broader economic strategy.

In June, he revealed that the country has been sending 1,000 skilled and semi-skilled workers overseas every week.

Mudavadi Graces Diplomatic Golf Tournament Celebrating Kenya’s 60 Years of Diplomacy

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Mudavadi Kenya foreign policy

By OPCS Press Service in Nairobi.
27 November 2024

Mudavadi Leads Golf Tournament Marking Kenya’s 60 Years of Diplomacy

Despite the demanding responsibilities of his role as Prime Cabinet Secretary and his leadership of three significant ministries, H.E. Dr Musalia Mudavadi actively participated in an 18-hole diplomatic golf tournament at the Royal Nairobi Golf Club. The event, involving a 12-kilometre walk, was organised to commemorate Kenya’s 60 years of diplomacy, celebrating the nation’s achievements on the global stage.

As the Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Mudavadi underscored the unique role of sports, particularly golf, in uniting people and enhancing international connections. “Golf is not just a game; it serves as a powerful platform to bring people together, strengthen bonds, and build lasting partnerships,” he stated.

The tournament drew participants from various sectors, including Ministry of Foreign Affairs staff, members of the diplomatic corps, and corporate leaders, reflecting Kenya’s commitment to inclusive diplomacy. Mudavadi commended the diverse gathering for their role in marking Kenya’s diplomatic milestones.

“Your presence here today reflects our shared commitment to Kenya’s growth, unity, and success on the global stage,” he remarked.

Among the notable attendees were Thomas Bisonga, Executive Head of the Public Sector at Stanbic Bank; Evans Lagat, Honorary Secretary of the Royal Nairobi Golf Club; and Jeff Kubo, the Club Pro. Their participation emphasised the significance of collaboration between public, private, and diplomatic sectors in advancing Kenya’s international interests.

Mudavadi reaffirmed the government’s dedication to expanding Kenya’s global influence. “As we celebrate 60 years of diplomacy, we remain dedicated to leveraging platforms like these to foster partnerships and promote Kenya’s values worldwide,” he concluded.

The tournament formed part of the broader Diplomacy at 60 celebrations, which highlight Kenya’s accomplishments in diplomacy, sports, and international cooperation. The event also served to promote unity and friendship across borders, showcasing the nation’s commitment to building stronger global connections.

ENDS

Poverty leading cause of gender-based violence in Homa Bay County

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Homa-Bay-gender-activists-when-they-launched-the-16-days-of-gender-activism-at-Kisui-in-Suba-North-constituencyHoma-Bay-county
Homa-Bay-gender-activists-when-they-launched-the-16-days-of-gender-activism-at-Kisui-in-Suba-North-constituencyHoma-Bay-county

by Reporter

Poverty remains one of the leading causes of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Homa Bay, according to the county’s Chief Officer for Gender, Dolphin Ochere.

Ochere revealed that assessment reports from her department indicate that many family conflicts stem from a lack of economic empowerment. “Homa Bay gender department report lists poverty as one of the leading causes of conflicts among families. Family members, especially couples, disagree and fight even on a small scale due to lack of economic empowerment,” she explained.

Statistics from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) place Homa Bay among the counties in Western Kenya with a high poverty index. Currently, the county’s poverty index stands at 48.4 percent. Ochere pointed out that poverty often leads to frustrations, especially among men, who may become indignant over minor disagreements.

Some of the reported forms of GBV include physical assault, verbal abuse, sexual harassment, and other forms of violence.

Speaking during the launch of this year’s 16 Days of Gender Activism campaign at Kisui in Suba North constituency, Ochere highlighted initiatives by the county government to address GBV. These include male involvement programmes, sensitisation campaigns, sports tournaments, and the drafting of a GBV policy. “We’ve increased sensitisation activities for family members to know and understand the importance of peaceful coexistence. There is a need for everyone to get protected in their families,” she said.

Esther Soti, the executive director of Development Link Knowledge Africa (DEVLINK), called for collective efforts to combat GBV in Homa Bay. She expressed concern over the rising cases of sexual violence, including defilement and rape, as well as an increase in femicide.

Soti stressed the importance of stakeholders working together to eradicate practices that fuel GBV. “There is a need for collective responsibility if we truly want to win the fight against GBV in society. We must discard cultural practices that suppress one gender over the other,” she urged.

Physical violence prevalence in Homa Bay currently stands at 54.6 percent, while sexual violence is at 23 percent.

During the launch, Homa Bay Members of County Assembly (MCAs), Pauline Omogi (nominated) and Tom Raila (Mfang’ano), advocated for the establishment of safe spaces for GBV survivors.

Omogi encouraged individuals, particularly couples experiencing conflicts, to seek refuge in safe spaces such as churches, police stations, or rescue centres. “If someone feels threatened in the family, you’re allowed to run away to avoid being harmed. We should foster peace in every place we live,” she advised.

Raila reiterated the MCAs’ commitment to approving legislation that will ensure the eradication of GBV. “We are ready to support and approve bills aimed at tackling GBV and protecting vulnerable members of society,” he assured.

As awareness campaigns continue, the focus remains on fostering peaceful coexistence and tackling the root causes of GBV, with poverty and harmful cultural practices at the forefront of the fight.

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