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Kisumu Residents Support Raila’s Political Move to Unite the Country

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By John Ochieng

Residents of Kisumu County have urged Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Raila Odinga to engage more people in his consultations on the next political move.

At a press conference in Kisumu on Sunday, the leaders assured Raila of their support in his political move with President William Ruto to unite the country.

A spokesperson, Mr Job Mandela, said they back Raila in his political pursuit but urged him to consider engaging religious groups, civil society, and the youth.

Mandela stated that the consultations should not be confined to the ODM party alone, as the majority of Kenyans support the initiative.

“Raila is consulting on our behalf, and we already support the same course. We want him to reach out to more people,” he said.

He emphasised that Raila should not succumb to intimidation or coercion but should instead focus on strengthening the relationship with the Kenya Kwanza government.

“Let no politician, especially those in the ODM party, derail this process. We want this process to be concluded as quickly as possible so that we can be part of the government,” said Mandela.

He warned former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka against interfering with Raila, urging them to allow him to lead ODM party supporters into government.

Joe Obuya cautioned Raila not to fall for the carrot being dangled before him by some politicians ahead of the 2027 General Election.

“That carrot is laced with poison—don’t go for it. It is still fresh in our minds how you were duped in the 2002 General Election,” he said.

“We want to affirm to Raila that he has our mandate—the 6 million-plus who voted for him in 2022—to negotiate on our behalf,” he added.

Businesswoman Lilian Onyango said they were waiting to see the signing of documents cementing the relationship.

“I support the ongoing consultations. I want Baba (Raila) to work closely with President Ruto for the sake of unity and peace in this country,” she said.

In recent weeks, Raila has been travelling across Nyanza counties, consulting different stakeholders over his planned move to work with President Ruto.

Empowering the Girl Child: A Path to Reducing Prostitution from the Streets of Kisumu

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Dr. Edris N. Omondi (Advocate)

attorneyedris@ywcg.org

Anyango not her real name, is part of my program at the Centre for Prisons Reforms and Crime Prevention International. At 16, her formal education was disrupted having been a victim of sexual abuse. Growing up as an orphan, she was totally dependent on her foster parents. As fate has it, she is now a teenage ‘child’ mother-flew from her home because of stigma associated with early pregnancy. We found her on the streets of Kondele drunk, enslaved into hawking her body for as little as 20 shillings a night-oblivious of insecurity that comes with darkness and a dark world, STDs and worse of all-HIV/AIDs.

This is the sad reality, a scenario not far from the comforts of our back yards and environs. Most victims are from the slums- and the underlying issues is associated with desperate times.

Statistics of Single Mothers Below 30 and Their Connection to Prostitution

According to data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), more than 60% of single mothers in Kenya are under the age of 30. These young mothers are often vulnerable to economic hardship and lack of social support. With limited education and job opportunities, many turn to prostitution as a means of survival.

In Kisumu, areas like Kondele, Obunga, Manyatta, and Nyalenda have higher rates of teenage pregnancies and young single mothers. These mothers often face stigmatization, poverty, and a lack of adequate social services. Without viable alternatives, some resort to prostitution to provide for their children. Studies have shown that education and skills training are key factors in reducing the likelihood of young women entering prostitution.

Perspective of Empowerment other than condemnation.

Prostitution is a serious social issue that continues to affect many communities around our country. In Kisumu, one of Kenya’s fastest-growing urban centers, prostitution has become a visible challenge, particularly in red-light area of Kondele, around Kisumu bus park area and the adjacent areas around Taifa Park among other areas.

Poverty, lack of education, and limited job opportunities drive many young women into the trade. However, we must look at this issue from a perspective of empowerment rather than punishment. Through a concerted effort in girl child empowerment, we can break the cycle of poverty, crime, and exploitation.

Poverty is often cited as the driving force behind many girls turning to prostitution. For many young women under the age of 30, especially single mothers, prostitution seems like a way to survive and care for their families. It’s not an easy life, but it becomes a coping mechanism in the face of limited options. The solution lies in empowering these girls, providing them with education, vocational skills, and alternative means of livelihood, while also establishing a supportive environment for their emotional and mental well-being.

Global Examples of Girl Child Empowerment -Tackling Prostitution

Across the world, numerous initiatives have proven that empowering girls through education and vocational skills is the key to lifting them out of vulnerable circumstances, including prostitution.

In Thailand the Mirror Foundation has been working for decades to rehabilitate young women and children involved in prostitution. Their approach focuses on providing shelter, education, counseling, and vocational training, all while aiming to change the social and cultural environments that perpetuate the trade. By addressing the root causes, they offer girls a chance to build a future without resorting to sex work.

In India where I spent half of my college life, the Sampurna Project, run by NGOs like Apne Aap Women Worldwide, provides a comprehensive approach to eliminating prostitution in communities. The project includes providing education, skill-building workshops, healthcare, and legal aid. The focus is on empowering women to make choices about their own futures while simultaneously working to reduce stigma.

These examples show that with the right resources and support systems, girls in vulnerable situations can be empowered to build brighter futures without resorting to prostitution.

Addressing the Issue in Kisumu: Legislation and Local Initiatives

Whereas, we have local organizations like Bethzatha HIV/AIDS Resource Centre, at Korowe that are initiating programs dealing with young people to reduce the spread of HIV/AIDS and address issues of sexual exploitation, the County Government can play a pivotal role in addressing the issue of prostitution by creating and enforcing legislation aimed at protecting young girls and women. The following actions can help:

1. Enforcement of Laws Against Human Trafficking and Exploitation: Kisumu can introduce bi-laws that focus on combating human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and prostitution. This could complement the penal code that prohibits living on the earning of prostitution and soliciting or importuning for immoral purposes. Stringent penalties can be put in place for those who exploit women, as well as measures to support victims of sexual abuse and exploitation, such as providing shelters and rehabilitation services for them.

2. Regulation of Red-Light Areas: Instead of turning a blind eye to the existence of red-light areas, the city of Kisumu can regulate these zones with the aim of dismantling them through systematic social and economic interventions. This could include providing alternative housing and employment for those currently working in these areas, helping them transition to a safer and more dignified life.

3. Local Constituency Development Funds (CDF) Utilization: The Constituency Development Funds (CDF), which are aimed at improving local infrastructure and social welfare, can be effectively used to support girl child empowerment programs in Kisumu. For instance, CDF can fund the following:

  1. Education and Vocational Training Centers: Establishing or supporting existing institutions that offer educational and vocational training programs for young girls who have dropped out of school or are at risk of exploitation.
  1. Scholarships for Girls: Offering scholarships for secondary and tertiary education to girls in marginalized communities. This helps girls access education, which in turn reduces their likelihood of falling into prostitution.
  1. Public Health Initiatives: Investing in health programs aimed at educating girls on sexual and reproductive health, HIV/AIDS prevention, and their rights.

4. Public Awareness Campaigns: A well-coordinated awareness campaign that addresses the dangers of prostitution and the importance of education and self-reliance could be funded through the CDF and in partnership with other community-based players. These campaigns could target young girls, their families, and the wider community, focusing on breaking the stigma associated with those involved in prostitution and promoting alternatives.

Adult Learning Programs for Drop-Out Girls

Many girls drop out of school for various reasons—teenage pregnancy, financial constraints, or early marriages. Organizations such as Capacity Training Insititute (CTI) and Gates Africa Training Centre (GATC) which are TVET certified adult learning programs would be an essential step in providing these girls with a second chance at education and vocational training. These programs offer both part-time or full-time flexibility, accommodate young mothers or those who are financially burdened.

The Role of Religious Bodies

Religious institutions in Kisumu, as elsewhere, can play a significant role in addressing the issue of prostitution. Churches, mosques, and other faith-based organizations can support efforts by:

  1. Providing safe spaces for women and girls to receive counseling and rehabilitation.
  1. Offering vocational training and microfinance support for those who want to start small businesses.
  1. Working alongside local government bodies and NGOs to create a supportive environment that empowers young girls to make positive life choices.

Religious bodies can also provide moral guidance and help reduce the stigma around prostitution, creating a more inclusive and supportive community for those who wish to leave the trade.

Conclusion

Reducing prostitution in Kisumu requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses the root causes: poverty, lack of education, and gender inequality. Empowering the girl child through education, vocational training, and social support programs will go a long way in breaking the cycle of exploitation and empowering these young women to create better futures for themselves. Collaboration between the County Government, NGOs, religious organizations, and the private sector is key to creating sustainable change. By investing in the next generation of girls, we can ensure that they are not driven to prostitution, but instead are equipped to thrive in a world full of opportunities.

Tourism Fund Calls for 2% Levy Compliance to Boost Sector Growth

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By Western Insight Reporter

The management of the hospitality industry in the country has been urged to comply with the 2 per cent tourism levy to foster sector growth amid reports of a tourism rebound, with more pilgrims visiting Kenya.

Tourism Fund (TF), Board of Trustees, led by Chairman Mr Samson Some, emphasised this call during the 12th Tourism Fund Upskilling Graduation Ceremony in the coastal region at the weekend.

He disclosed that compliance is vital for financing sector activities and significantly boosting the national economy.

“We want you to comply and pay the levy, which is also ploughed back into capacity-building for your untrained staff and certifying them to boost efficient service delivery and attract more clients,” advised Some.

He was happy that many hospitality industry investors were already paying the compulsory levy, while others were in arrears running into millions of shillings and were yet to comply. He urged all to pay the levy promptly, as the law stipulates.

“Our President has assured us that the coast is rich in unique features, cultural heritage, and diverse experiences, promising that tourists will find plenty to explore here. Let’s comply and pay the 2 per cent levy to boost the sector’s services and growth,” said Some.

Recent tourism arrival statistics showcase the positive impact of this promise, with over 3,000 visitors recorded in recent weeks from overseas in Mombasa.

“This surge presents an exciting opportunity for the hospitality industry,” said the Board of Trustees Chair.

In response, the Tourism Fund is committed to training more hospitality workers and enhancing service delivery to attract both domestic and international visitors.

“This influx of tourists is not just a boon for our region; it creates a ripple effect that benefits local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and various service providers,” Some explained.

He asserted, “The growing demand for services and accommodations is driving job creation and fuelling economic growth.”

However, Some acknowledged the challenges that accompany this growth.

“With the rise in visitors comes an urgent need for a highly skilled workforce to meet their evolving expectations,” he stated, underscoring the crucial role of the Tourism Fund in capacity-building initiatives.

The Fund focuses specifically on training individuals in the sector who lack formal certifications.

Through comprehensive training and certification programmes, the Fund is empowering workers to deliver world-class services.

Orengo Fails to Read Raila’s Script and Patterns as Cooperation with President Ruto Nears

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By Anderson Ojwang

Despite Siaya Governor James Orengo being in the kitchen cabinet and a close confidant of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, he is yet to understand, comprehend, and actualise the scripts and patterns of his party leader’s politics.

While Orengo still believes in the old brand of politics—activism, attack, criticism, confrontation, and playing hardball—his boss moved away from that style of politics in 1997 when he entered into cooperation with the then President, the late Daniel Arap Moi.

Raila changed his approach from confrontation, activism, and hardball tactics to negotiation, dialogue, compromise, and cooperation, which have characterised his politics in recent years.

That is why Orengo is currently becoming a lone voice in the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), opposing the emerging cooperation between Ruto and Raila.

Upon his return from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where he failed to win the African Union Commission Chairman seat, Raila met President Ruto in Mombasa. He later flew to Kisumu, where he held a consultative meeting with the region’s leadership.

Raila subsequently held a series of meetings in Migori, Homa Bay, and Migori counties. Last Friday, he convened a consultative meeting with all ODM members from Western Kenya in Busia.

Before Raila embarked on his campaign for the AU seat, he had entered into a broad-based government in which senior ODM leaders—John Mbadi, Hassan Ali Joho, Opiyo Wandayi, and Wycliffe Oparanya—were all appointed as cabinet secretaries.

At a funeral in Siaya over the weekend, Alego MP Sam Atandi, who spoke before Orengo arrived, said the ongoing consultations would eventually lead to President Ruto working with Raila.

“We have known our friends and enemies. We support Raila in his consultative meetings, and we are convinced we are going to work with President Ruto to ensure peace prevails in the country.

Those who oppose this proposed move are doing so for their own interests. We support Raila’s decision to consult before making his next move.

Raila has promised me something significant in this new arrangement, and I know my people of Alego support it,” he said.

However, Orengo, who also spoke at the funeral, cautioned the ODM and the Luo community against rushing into political arrangements without considering other dynamics at play.

“I am a veteran politician. I was there during the late Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, Moi, the late Mwai Kibaki, Uhuru Kenyatta, and now the current administration. I have a wealth of experience, and you should listen to me.

We must not rush into any political arrangements. We must hold consultations and consider various emerging dynamics.

When you see some people in a hurry to actualise this, be very worried. I want to warn you, my people—let us not be in a hurry. Hurry-hurry has no blessings.

I am also a senior member of the party, and at some point, they will listen to me. I am concerned about the speed and the interests some people have in these negotiations,” he said.

However, the Chairman of the Luo Council of Elders, Mzee Odungi Randa, welcomed the weekend’s declaration by the Duond Luo Nairobi chapter, which expressed support for Raila and Ruto’s cooperation.

“Next week, after various branches of my outfit have declared their stand, my executive will issue a statement on the matter. I am still waiting for branches like Busia, Kitale, Bungoma, and Nakuru, among others, to make their positions clear.

We support the engagement Raila and Ruto have undertaken, and we support their political arrangements.

I will issue a substantive statement this coming week. We support the ongoing consultations,” he said in a telephone interview.

Recently, the MCAs, led by the Leader of the Majority in the Siaya Assembly, Mr Edwin Martin Otieno, criticised a section of Nyanza leaders who oppose President Ruto.

“Ruto supported Raila to become Prime Minister. Currently, he has appointed some of our leaders into the government. It is unfortunate that some leaders want to bring village politics to undermine the development we are witnessing. We must call them out,” he said.

Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has consistently stated in recent functions that the party was right to work with the government and that they would not engage in street demonstrations or demonise the government.

“This time, as a community, we are not going to the streets. We are supporting the government of the day to deliver on its mandate.

We will support the leader who wants to unite Kenya and distribute the national cake equitably.

It is time we focused on development and took advantage of the opportunities the government is bringing our way. We have been marginalised for a long time,” she said.

Mbadi and Wandayi have also maintained that the party and the community support the government of the day in delivering on its mandate to the people.

“As it stands, we now know our friends and enemies. If you walk with our enemies, we will treat you in the same manner.

We now know who our genuine friends are and those who do not mean well for us.

I want you to know that we are in ODM. I am a senior member of ODM. So wherever ODM issues are being discussed, I am also in attendance,” Wandayi recently said.

Why Kenya Needs a State Department for Efficiency

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Billy Mijungu

By Billy Mijungu

The recently released report by the Controller of Budget has laid bare a disturbing reality. Between July 2024 and February 2025, national and county governments withdrew 1.3 trillion shillings manually instead of using the automated system.

These are imprests, often prone to abuse, mismanagement, and outright theft. This revelation only scratches the surface of Kenya’s deeper financial problem, an expenditure crisis.

For years, we have been told that Kenya has a revenue problem. That narrative has been used to justify aggressive tax measures that have burdened businesses and households. However, the truth is now evident. We do not have a revenue problem.

We have an expenditure problem. Our public funds are being wasted through unnecessary domestic subsistence allowances, excessive per diems, inflated salaries, and inefficient revenue collection by county governments. Money is being stolen at an alarming rate, while development projects are left underfunded.
It is not that we lack money for development.

In fact, our development budget absorption level is remarkably low. The government has more money than it can spend efficiently. Instead of directing funds towards critical infrastructure, social services, and economic growth projects, billions are being lost through poor financial management.

Worse still, the country is under the heavy strain of debt. Yet, if we streamlined our expenditure, Kenya could easily service its debts and clear them within five years.
The National Treasury must take decisive action.

The Controller of Budget’s report should serve as a wake up call. We need urgent measures to tighten controls on government spending. One of the most effective solutions would be to revive and strengthen the Efficiency Monitoring Unit. However, this time, it should not be a passive entity issuing reports that gather dust in government offices. It should be a fully fledged State Department for Efficiency.

This department, referred to as SDE, should have a Principal Secretary who reports directly to the President. It should be empowered to oversee and audit government spending across all ministries and county governments. Every accounting officer should be required to report their expenditure to this office, ensuring that every shilling is used efficiently.

The role of SDE would be clear—to curb wasteful expenditure and redirect resources towards productive use. It should have the authority to halt unnecessary spending, question dubious transactions, and demand accountability from government institutions. Every shilling saved from wasteful expenditure is a shilling that can be used to build roads, equip hospitals, educate children, and develop the economy.

SDE should also ensure that county governments maximize the collection of their own source revenues. Counties must account for every coin generated and collected. More importantly, county governments should adopt a financial discipline model where their own revenues are the first charge for recurrent expenditures.

This would reduce overreliance on the national government and promote financial sustainability at the county level.
If Kenya is to break free from the cycle of debt and underdevelopment, we must take a firm stand against financial inefficiency. The government must prioritize fiscal discipline, and a State Department for Efficiency would be the perfect tool to achieve this.

The time for action is now. The President and the National Treasury must move swiftly to implement measures that ensure taxpayers’ money is used for the benefit of the nation, not for the enrichment of a few. Kenyans deserve a government that spends wisely and delivers results.

How a Forced Marriage of a 14-Year-Old Visually Impaired Pupil Motivated a Teacher to Start an Organisation for PLWDs

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By Anderson Ojwang

Ndhiwa Sub County in Homa Bay County, Kenya, has high rates of early marriage and teenage pregnancy. Reports of forced marriages and defilement of minors are common vices in the region.

For teacher Caroline Kisuge, once a teacher in the area, it was painful to see the future of a bright girl, who suffered from visual impairment, cut short when she was married off at the age of 14.

“I went back for training at the Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) for special needs training. I had developed a strong bond with my pupil and facilitated her learning.

I had a visually impaired girl in my class. I wasn’t able to read Braille or transcribe her work. She was very bright but depended on one officer covering a wide area, who would only come after a fortnight for a few hours.

The girl ended up dropping out of school, and when I followed up, I found out she had been married.

I felt she was wasted, considering how bright she was. If it were today, I would have placed her in a school for the visually impaired so she could fully benefit. It’s sad that I can’t trace Millicent, but her case haunts me to this day,” she says.

However, Millicent’s predicament ignited Kisuge’s desire to help persons living with disabilities. After completing her training as a special needs teacher in Autism Spectrum Disorders, she founded the Jonathan Rays of Hope organisation, focusing on advocacy and empowerment of PLWDs (Persons Living with Disabilities) through Neurodiversity Mashinani.

Kisuge is also a consultant on Autism matters and an award-winning champion of disability rights. She has been recognised by the Diar Awards for her work in promoting inclusion for PLWDs.

“Autism Spectrum Disorders are lifelong neurological developmental conditions that affect communication, social skills, and the way a child interacts with the environment and objects. The severity varies from mild to profound, and symptoms become evident by the age of three.

During training, we visited several special schools as part of our orientation. Some trainees packed their bags and abandoned the course, saying they couldn’t handle the nursing aspect of it—the foul smells from children with drooling and bowel incontinence problems.

For me, I promised to do my best and started viewing life differently. I appreciated the children God gave me and stopped complaining.

It also helped me understand the stages of growth and development in my own children.

I learnt about individual differences and how to accommodate people with diverse needs.

I became more patient with life. I gained so much knowledge, and when I looked at my village, I promised to make disability matters visible in rural areas,” she says.

Kisuge believes that special needs training is essential not only for teachers but also for parents and anyone handling children at different levels in the community.

“My organisation started when I began visiting children from my classroom at home.

I realised they were going through so much. I rescued several children who needed medical attention and better nutrition, as well as those living in poor shelter conditions and suffering from neglect due to stigma associated with PLWDs.

I needed to rehabilitate them. I tried several orphanages, but they could only admit those who were independent.

This took a toll on me when I had to return them to the same conditions I had found them in,” she says.

For her work, Kisuge has received recognition, but she believes the greatest reward is changing and improving the lives of needy children.

“Yes, I received an award from the Diar Awards 6th edition as an Inclusion Champion for PLWDs. The process involved rigorous nominations and online voting, followed by a background check on my public performance.

We were awarded at a ceremony held in Nairobi. This year, my organisation has again been recognised by the same awards for championing PLWD inclusion as a community-based organisation (CBO),” she says.

Despite the harsh economic situation in the country, Kisuge is so selfless that she spares part of her salary and earnings to support the children under her organisation.

“I have a few well-wishers who support us, but mostly, I use my salary and earnings from consultancy work to run the rehabilitation and habilitation centre for abandoned and neglected PLWDs in rural areas.

I have spearheaded donation drives for assistive devices. I started by buying crutches and walking frames with my own money and donating them to those in need.

I also launched a wheelchair appeal and received support from well-wishers. The first case I encountered was from Gwassi, where a child with cerebral palsy had been placed in a sufuria (cooking pot) for 11 years because they lacked a wheelchair. The child couldn’t sit on a chair, so the pot was used to carry them around.

A friend supported the process, and we facilitated a solution for the mother.

I later partnered with Litein AIC Hospital and missionaries, who donated 31 wheelchairs in Mfangano Island last August. This year, we have donated 72 wheelchairs in Rusinga Island.

The First Lady of Migori County, Dr Agnes Ayacko, has also donated 200 wheelchairs from the Walkabout Foundation to support needy cases in the county.”

A poisoned chalice, the carrot, which Rigathi dangles to Raila

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By Anderson Ojwang                  

The self-declared truthful man and Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua could be out on a mission. Rigathi wants to turn the mission impossible into a mission possible.

And already he is dangling a “presidential carrot” to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Rigathi is extending overtures to Raila with a view to forestall and rock any would be political alliance with his former boss, President William Ruto.

Just after the African Union Commission Chairman election in which Raila lost, Rigathi asked the former Langata MP to join them and help remove Ruto from power.

But as he attempts to woo the former PM to their wing, Rigathi has been giving contradicting and double speak on the person of Raila, accusing him of betraying wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and at the same time, that he is ready to support him for presidency.

Once declared an ardent and fierce critic of Raila during the 2022 presidential election and after assumption of office, Rigathi is changing the tune and is sending a mixed signal.

Ahead of last year’s election and during the campaign, Rigathi said “ We want to tell Raila and those supporting him that they should respect the Kikuyu community.

You people like Francis Atwoli, Cotu Secretary General,  and David Murathe, former MP, stop cheating Raila Odinga. Raila Odinga is unacceptable to the people of Mt Kenya. Come rain and sunshine. We support President Uhuru Kenyatta on his development projects for Mt Kenya but in Raila Odinga, we say No. We have been defeated. We have tried to support Raila and it’s difficult,”

Ahead of the last general election, Raila’s running mate, Martha Karua revealed an oath that was meant to stop the first vice President the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and the Luo community from acceding to the presidency.

Karua revealed “ I am in Kerugoya, a standard six pupil and suddenly there is oathing. The 1969 Oath, where, all the people of Mt Kenya are trooping to Gatundu to Jomo Kenyatta’s home to take oath.

 And where even school-going children are being asked to take the oath I come home for holidays, I am being told that my younger brother, walked to go take an oath. The oath was being administered at Kabare, so people walked for eight kilometres to receive the oath.

The oath was, as I heard it then, that those from the Mt Kenya side were to retain the presidency and would allow it to go not beyond Mt Kenya and specifically, the Luo nation,”

During a recent KTN interview, Rigathi hinted at the possibility of supporting and working with Raila. He said “ I am open to working with anybody who means well for this country.

I want to take this opportunity to tell supporters of Raila Odinga from Nyanza, that they should not fight the Mountain people. Because we are not their enemies at all.

 We have a problem with President William Ruto, We have no problem with Raila Odinga and ODM. I saw after Raila lost the AUC election, some people from Rift Valley, the supporters of the president and some supporters of Raila trying to blame murima for the loss, just because some women celebrated the loss.

We have no problem with Raila and I have had several consultations. infect has done 400 meetings, people have asked me to look for friends.

For the record, for many years we have had a problem with Raila because he had been demonized as someone who is against the mountain people.

In 2020, Uhuru convinced us that Raila is a good man but Ruto, then deputy president convinced us that Raila is a bad man.

He is a witch doctor, lord of poverty and means bad for this country. Ruto was more persuasive than Kenyatta.

Raila has been cleaned by everybody. Uhuru said he is a good man, Ruto is today singing praises for Raila as the best leader not only for Kenya but Africa.

We refused to vote for Raila not because he was a very bad man but because Ruto convinced us, that Raila was a victim of our community’s deceit for betrayal.

Because we hate betrayal we decided to punish Uhuru and Raila at the same time.

Raila has never betrayed us. He has not done anything so grave that in our view makes it impossible for us to work together. If he wants to be president, he can talk to us and we don’t have a problem.

We are ready to work with Raila. If Raila decides, to join the rest of Kenyans to liberate our country, and gets on his right footings and calls on us for a discussion on the possibility of working together, we are open to that discussion. We are not selfish people, we are ready to support another person, be it Raila, or anybody,” he said.

I want to tell Raila and his supporters, I know, I am not qualified to advise him but from my working with Ruto, he should be very careful.

Political analyst Mwalimu Odoyo Owidi said Rigathi’s offer was meant to pacify Raila and his support base to be used to do the dirty and donkey work.

Odoyo said “In 2007 when Raila contested or the presidency, Mt Kenya said they would rather vote for anything than vote for a kihii.

In 2013 they promised to vote for anyone but not a Mungoroki and in  2017 they said Taila should retire and go to Opoda.

 In 2018, after convincing Raila to support Uhuru and bring peace as Uhuru pleaded with them to vote for Raila. They said Uhuru and Raila are dynasties which must end.

After losing in 2022 Raila went to the streets to oppose to demand justice. They called him Mtuu ya maandamano who loves blood.

When Ruto included Luos in government, they said Luo did not have shares in government and they plotted to remove Ruto.

Finally,  when Raila sided with Ruto, they called him a traitor and currently they are luring Raila to abandon Ruto to follow them. Let the clear the oath first before asking to support Raila,”.

Will Raila finally abandon the broad-based government to join his tormentor?

We must strengthen devolution to help our people-Raila.

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By Habil Onyango.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

President Ruto inspects Sh. 3.9 billion Ketraco’s Mariakani sub-station in Kilifi County

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By Reporter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Omollo : Homa Bay county to host this year’s Madaraka Celebration

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By Habil Onyango

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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