By James Okoth

When Michel Nkuka Mbolandinga rose from his seat in Morocco, draped in the Congolese flag and dressed in a suit matching its blue, red and gold, time seemed to pause. His dignified look, strikingly resembling Patrice Émery Lumumba, carried the weight of memory. He wasn’t just a fan at AFCON 2025. He was history walking, a living echo of Africa’s unending struggle for dignity.

The Return of a Spirit

Patrice Lumumba never saw Africa truly free. Killed in 1961, months after Congo’s independence, he left behind a voice that demanded unity, justice and respect. His words, once shouted in protest halls, seemed to echo again through the stadiums of 2025.

Congo’s run to the semi-finals felt like resistance reborn. It wasn’t only about football. It was about standing tall, playing for pride, and reminding the world that African identity still beats strong.

Reflections of Struggle

The round of 16 between Algeria and Congo carried meaning far beyond the pitch. It was a contest of histories, North versus Sub-Saharan, power versus persistence.

When Mohamed Amaora, at the peak of Algeria’s 1 – 0 victory agains Congo, he turned toward the Congolese fans and mocked them. He stood stiff for a moment, then collapsed, pretending to faint before falling asleep. Many saw it as a cruel gesture, a reminder of how African pride is still too often fractured from within.

Then came Adam Okor of Nigeria. At the end of the game, he walked toward the same section, stood firm and saluted. His calm, deliberate gesture honoured Michel Nkuka Mbolandinga and symbolically, every African who has ever stood proud in the face of insult.

In that moment, Lumumba’s spirit seemed to rise again, whispering, “Africa will write its own history and it will be glorious.”

The Dress Code of Memory

The terraces glowed with meaning. Congolese fans wore wax prints of Congolese flag. Women danced in bright colours drawn from many African flags. The drums beat with old freedom rhythms, once for battle, now for football.

AFCON 2025 became more than a tournament. It was a living museum of African consciousness. Every chant, every tear, every wave of a flag carried echoes of the continent’s long road to self-respect.

When Congo Went Home

Congo’s dream ended at the semi-finals. Algeria advanced, only to be eliminated by Nigeria in the next round. For the Congolese, the journey was over, but the story was not.

After the match, AFCON organizers approached Michel Nkuka Mbolandinga with an offer to become the tournament’s ambassador. It was lucrative and symbolic, an invitation to embody the very spirit that had captured hearts across the continent.

Nkuka declined.

With quiet conviction, he turned down the offer and left with his team, his flag still on his shoulders, his dignity intact. Just like Lumumba, he chose principle over privilege, conviction over comfort.

As he walked out of the stadium, a hush followed him. Cameras turned, fans watched and somewhere in that moment, the spirit of Congo’s fallen leader seemed to walk beside him.

The Line of Fire: Heroes Who Dreamed Africa

The story of Michel Nkuka Mbolandinga, like that of Lumumba, is part of a larger African legacy, an unbroken chain of men and women who dreamed beyond borders and bloodlines.

Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s founding father, envisioned a continent bound not by colonial lines but by shared destiny. His dream of a “United States of Africa” became the heartbeat of the Pan-African movement.

Julius Nyerere of Tanzania, philosopher and teacher, built a nation on the principles of ujamaa, African socialism rooted in equality and cooperation. He taught that independence without unity was an illusion.

Jomo Kenyatta, Kenya’s elder of independence, stood for political self-rule and cultural pride, reminding Africans that freedom meant reclaiming both land and identity.

Haile Selassie, the Lion of Judah, carried Africa’s crown to the world stage, urging the formation of the Organization of African Unity. His speeches became gospel for black consciousness movements across continents.

Amílcar Cabral of Guinea-Bissau, poet and revolutionary, fought for freedom through education and awareness, believing that “the weapon of theory” was as powerful as the gun.

Thomas Sankara, the youthful firebrand of Burkina Faso, redefined leadership with integrity, women’s empowerment and self-reliance. His brief rule remains a blueprint for honest governance in Africa.

Steve Biko of South Africa ignited the Black Consciousness Movement, teaching that liberation began in the mind, that self-worth was the foundation of revolution.

Raila Odinga, Kenya’s longtime reformist and Pan-African advocate, championed democracy, constitutionalism and accountability. Beyond politics, he worked tirelessly to strengthen African unity, peace initiatives and regional cooperation, carrying the torch of civic and continental leadership into the 21st century.

And in their footsteps, thousands marched, women and men, known and unnamed, who carried Africa’s burdens with courage and clarity.

Their ideals live on in today’s struggles for equity, democracy and self-definition. In the spontaneous dignity of Michel Nkuka Mbolandinga, Africa was reminded that its heroes never truly die, they simply reincarnate through new generations.

The Ball as a Baton

Football is more than a game. It is a mirror of struggle, a language of pride, a bridge across wounds. Lumumba’s dream was never only political, it was about the soul of Africa.

In 2025, as the ball rolled across African soil, it carried a challenge, to believe again, to stand again, to stay true to the spirit of unity.

Perhaps that is how Africa’s great story continues, not in the corridors of power, but on the fields of passion, not in silence, but in song.

Patrice Lumumba may have fallen in 1961. But in Morocco, in Lagos, in Algiers, in Kinshasa and in the heart of Michel Nkuka Mbolandinga, he rose again.

By James Okoth

The Kisumu branch of the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) witnessed a historic and highly competitive election, marking a new era of leadership for the 2026–2031 term. The polls, conducted under tight supervision, saw a remarkable surge of women leaders securing top seats, signaling a shift towards inclusivity and gender balance within the union’s county leadership.

In a stunning upset, long-serving Executive Secretary Zablon Awange, who has been at the helm for years, was convincingly dethroned by George Osura, who garnered 1,965 votes against Awange’s 557, with Chris Masai trailing at 86. Osura’s victory, described by many as a “vote for change and fresh energy,” reflects growing calls for reform and greater engagement with teachers across the county.

In the Chairman’s race, Onyando Ogaja narrowly triumphed with 1,281 votes, edging out Peter Oyombe, who secured 1,137, while Carol Awili managed 254. Ogaja’s leadership is expected to focus on unity and revitalizing teacher welfare initiatives.

The Treasurer’s position was another tight contest, ultimately won by Dorice Adhiambo with 1,255 votes, defeating Sheryl Achieng who got 1,044, and William Onywera with 323. Dorice’s victory further cemented the growing influence of women in the union’s financial management roles.

In the Assistant Executive Secretary category, James Odiwuor emerged victorious with 1,600 votes against James Ali’s 997, while John Mark took the Vice Chair seat with 1,100 votes, beating Felix Oloo (849) and Jenice Audi (516).

The Vice Treasurer’s contest went to Simon Atito with a commanding 1,657 votes against Collins Odemba’s 921, consolidating his reputation as a trusted financial administrator among the teaching fraternity.

For Secretary, Secondary Education, Cavin Obuoyo triumphed with 1,007 votes, narrowly edging Joseph Athiende (837) and Pancras Gundo (756). The position will be key in addressing secondary school teachers’ emerging concerns under the competency-based curriculum.

In the Gender Secretary category, Elizabeth Akoo won emphatically with 1,656 votes against Jacky Agoch’s 524, reinforcing the women’s strong performance across the elections. The Assistant Secretary, Gender, seat was clinched by Nancy Obao, who secured 1,969 votes, while her competitor Kerina Olang did not submit a final tally by press time.

The Organization Secretary slot saw a landslide win for Chrispin Ogalo, who polled 1,876 votes, leaving Wycliff Okumu far behind with 637. Ogalo’s coordination and mobilization skills are expected to play a crucial role in rebuilding the union’s grassroots structures.

For the Secretary in charge of Persons Living with Disabilities (PLWD), Irine Hawi narrowly beat Lawrence Roberts by just 11 votes, 1,104 against 1,093, while Beatrice Orwa came third with 403 votes. The slim margin reflected one of the closest contests of the day.

The Secretary for Tertiary Institutions position went to Jacqueline India, who secured 1,549 votes, outpacing Margaretta Aluoch with 1,044. Similarly, Winnie Awuor won the Secretary, Youth and Gender post with 1,511 votes, beating Prisca Achieng (1,064).

In the Junior Secondary (JS) Secretary race, George Okeyo emerged the winner with 1,256 votes, while Sara Opere and Fred Musina followed with 678 and 660 respectively.

The outcome of the Kisumu KUPPET elections reflected both change and continuity, a generational transition led by a fresh crop of leaders committed to rejuvenating the teachers’ movement.

Observers noted that women’s impressive performance, capturing several top-tier offices including Treasurer, Gender Secretary and Assistant Gender Secretary, marks a turning point for the union’s internal democracy.

With the elections now concluded, attention shifts to how the new team will address long-standing challenges such as teachers’ welfare, workload balance under CBC and industrial harmony between the union and the Teachers Service Commission (TSC).

As the new officials prepare to assume office, Kisumu teachers are hopeful for a more responsive, inclusive and action-oriented leadership that will amplify their voices at both county and national levels.

By Anderson Ojwang’

Crowd trouble forced the Homa Bay KUPPET branch elections to abort after a rowdy crowd gained entry into the hall, subsequently compromising the exercise.

Earlier, some agents and candidates blocked the Secretary General, Akelo Misori, from accessing the venue to oversee the elections.

Similarly, sibling rivalry between the incumbent secretary, Stephen Odhiambo Yogo, and his maternal nephew, Thomas Odhiambo Okoth, who is also the Nyanza Sports Secretary, was to blame for the chaos witnessed during the elections.

County Labour Officer David Kirui said the voting exercise was peaceful but was compromised at the tail end when a surging crowd of over 1,000 gained entry into the hall, making the exercise untenable.

“The turnout was huge and crowd management was poor as teachers struggled to vote. So when a huge crowd gained entrance to the hall, we could not continue with the exercise because it became compromised,” he said.

Kirui said the agents were able to secure the ballots and voting materials, but they were later destroyed when his team left the venue after the exercise was aborted.

Kirui denied any presence of goons at the elections and blamed the aborted exercise on crowd trouble, which they failed to manage to ensure a smooth election.

“The exercise was so peaceful, but we had not anticipated the huge turnout. We cannot blame any of the candidates for the trouble. I will give my report,” he said.

After the returning officer left the venue, enraged voters burnt the ballot papers and voting materials.

Thomas, who was leading Team Change against Yogo’s team, has been engaged in bitter competition for the various branch seats, and the rivalry could have led to the Sunday crowd trouble at the hall.

Misori condemned the violence that was witnessed at the election, terming it retrogressive and archaic.

“It is unfortunate that goons stopped me from accessing the venue and even threatened to torch my vehicle. On Saturday, I was in Migori and the elections were peaceful. The national office is mandated to oversee the elections,” he said.

Akelo said the elections have been peaceful countrywide and wondered why Homa Bay resorted to violence and hiring goons instead of allowing the democratic process to take its course.

He said the union was waiting for the report from the labour office, which was the returning officer and the regulator, to advise them on the next course of action.

“It is upon Homa Bay to determine whether they want to attend the National Delegates Conference or not. We will have the quorum, and it is up to them to make the choice,” he said.

Misori criticised those who hired goons to disrupt the elections, saying it demeans the image of teachers and the union and must be condemned at all costs.

On Sunday, goons denied voters and officials access to the voting hall and took over the management of voter records and materials.

Yogo said there were incidences of double voting and blamed his opponents for allegedly trying to manipulate the elections in their favour.

“Thomas, who was leading Team Change, is my maternal nephew. The campaigns have been peaceful, and we wondered why my opponents resorted to using goons,” he said.

Yogo absolved Team Sanity, led by Bernard Obop, who was vying for the chairman seat, from the violence, saying they watched helplessly as goons burnt the voting materials.

“Team Sanity of Obop behaved themselves. We sat together and watched as goons destroyed voting materials and disrupted the elections. This was unfortunate,” he said.

Obop wrote, “Too unfortunate. Thanks, colleagues, for heeding the call. Aluta continua.”

Attempts to contact Thomas were unsuccessful as his phone was switched off.

By Marton Ogindo

The Luo community stands at a pivotal juncture in late 2025, following the profound loss of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, which has prompted a strategic reorganisation within the community.

The co-option of nine eminent figures into the Luo Council of Elders represents a deliberate effort to infuse professional expertise into a traditionally cultural institution, with the aim of addressing socio-economic challenges, promoting unity, and shielding the community from political interference.

However, while the Luo Council of Elders—led by Ker Nyandiko Ongadi and Odungi Randa—has excelled in preserving culture, traditions, cohesion, and harmony, the community’s pressing needs such as economic empowerment, infrastructure development, access to education, agricultural innovation, and international partnerships demand a more specialised entity.

The formation of the Luo Council for Social-Economic Development (LCSED) would channel the collective prowess of these co-opted leaders into targeted initiatives, transforming past efforts on economic mainstreaming into a permanent, action-oriented body.

LCSED is essential because the Luo region, despite its rich human capital, current national political goodwill, and strategic location at the confluence of East African nations, continues to grapple with persistent challenges such as poverty, unemployment, and underutilised resources.

A dedicated council would prioritise commerce, entrepreneurship, ICT, artisanship, sports, and asset leveraging—such as properties like Ofafa Memorial Hall—moving beyond seminars to implement practical steps that promote financial security and dignity.

By constituting these nine individuals as LCSED members, the community would harness their diverse, high-calibre expertise to drive measurable progress, ensuring that the Luo people thrive in a post-Raila era without over-reliance on politics. This professionalised structure would attract investment, foster self-reliance, and position the community as a model for ethnic-based development in Kenya.

What makes these individuals uniquely suited to this role is the breadth of their backgrounds, which span academia, diplomacy, engineering, business, politics, law, and activism—offering a multifaceted toolkit for socio-economic advancement. Below is an outline of their distinctive attributes and how they align with LCSED’s potential mandate.

Prof. George Outa is a multidisciplinary scholar and policy expert with unparalleled insights into environmental sustainability, governance, and climate adaptation—critical for addressing Luo Nyanza’s vulnerability to flooding and resource mismanagement. His accolades, including the St Andrews Prize for the Environment (2001) and the Governance in East Africa Research Award, underscore his ability to craft evidence-based strategies for economic resilience. As Chairman of the Nyanza Professionals and Business Caucus, he is well placed to mobilise networks that bridge academia and enterprise, making him ideal for leading LCSED’s policy and innovation pillars.

Ambassador Lazarus Amayo, a seasoned career diplomat, has served as Kenya’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Ambassador to the United States, and Permanent Representative to the United Nations and the International Maritime Organization. His experience in Zambia, Malawi, and as Special Envoy on African Union reforms demonstrates exceptional skill in trade negotiations and diaspora engagement, earning him the Diaspora Lifetime Achievement Award. Within LCSED, his diplomatic acumen could secure foreign investment, open export markets for Luo agricultural products, and enhance diaspora remittances.

Eng. Phillip Okundi, who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering and a Master’s degree in Telecommunication Systems, combines technical expertise with public leadership. A former Managing Director of Kenya Posts and Telecommunications and Chairman of Worldspace International, he has also served as a Commissioner at the National Cohesion and Integration Commission and as MP for Rangwe. His advocacy for cohesion, peace, and institutional trust positions him well to spearhead LCSED’s infrastructure and digital economy agenda.

Prof. Edward Oyugi Akong’o is a veteran scholar and human rights crusader whose detention during the Moi regime for advocating multi-party democracy reflects his unwavering commitment to justice and governance reform. As a former commissioner at the Commission on Revenue Allocation, he brings valuable experience in fiscal policy and equitable resource distribution. His expertise makes him ideal for leading LCSED’s social equity initiatives aimed at empowering marginalised groups.

Hon. John Pesa, a former MP for Migori, has a strong record in development, having spearheaded initiatives such as the Nyatike–Oyani water project and supported education through the Constituency Development Fund. Holding a diploma in education from the University of Nairobi, he blends political experience with business acumen, making him well suited to drive LCSED’s grassroots programmes in health, water, and skills development.

Hon. Sam Wakiaga, an astute businessman, has built wealth through ventures in media, intelligence, and other enterprises in Homa Bay. His political ambitions, including gubernatorial bids, reflect a broader vision for regional development. Within LCSED, his financial expertise could catalyse investment in SMEs, tourism, and real estate, turning community assets into engines of wealth creation.

Eng. Erick Opon Nyamunga, a respected engineer and former MP for Nyando, utilised his role on the National CDF Committee to support education, infrastructure, and scholarships. As a community elder with strong grassroots connections, he would excel in LCSED’s engineering and community mobilisation efforts, particularly in flood control, road development, and youth employment through agro-processing.

Retired Justice Onyango Otieno, with 48 years of service in the judiciary culminating in his tenure as a Court of Appeal judge, brings unparalleled legal expertise. Author of From Village to Village: A Journey Through the Corridors of Justice, he offers critical insights into dispute resolution and policy enforcement. His role in LCSED would be to safeguard initiatives through ethical governance, transparent contracts, and sound land reforms.

Prof. Julius Omondi Nyabundi, Vice-Chancellor of Maseno University since 2016 and a Professor of Horticulture with a PhD in Ecology, is a leading plant scientist with 39 published research works on agronomy and varietal evaluation. Author of Conventional and Contemporary Practices of Plant Breeding, he is well positioned to revolutionise Luo agriculture through innovation, sustainability, and export-oriented farming.

Forming LCSED with these leaders would not only honour their co-option but also amplify their impact, creating a lasting legacy of prosperity for the Luo people. This is not merely an organisational adjustment—it is a strategic imperative for sustainable development in a changing Kenya.

The author is a former Rangwe MP.

By Anderson Ojwang

Last Friday at midday, Mukuru Kwa Njenga slums were brought to a standstill by a piercing scream that instantly paralysed business in the bustling settlement.

Residents are accustomed to Mama Lilian Atieno Akeyo—fondly known as Mama Omena—as an ever-smiling, calm, and warm-hearted woman who avoids trouble at all costs. So when frantic screams erupted from her mabati house, neighbours rushed in, fearing the worst.

Akeyo, a widow, was found overwhelmed with tears and sweat, screaming uncontrollably while calling on God and thanking the Almighty for a miracle. When she finally calmed down enough to speak, she could only utter one name repeatedly: “Femi, Femi, Femi…”

The crowd was momentarily confused—Femi was right there, seated in front of her.

“Femi… yes, it is A–,” Akeyo finally muttered.

That was all it took. The crowd erupted into spontaneous song and dance. Residents lifted Femi shoulder-high as the entire slum burst into celebration. Her success became the pride of Mukuru Kwa Njenga.

Femi Atieno Otung had scored an A– in the just-released Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations. She was a student at St Theresa Mbooni Girls Secondary School.

Orphaned in Class Three following the death of her father, Femi never looked back in her pursuit of education. She consistently excelled academically, scoring 411 marks out of 500 in the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE).

“I didn’t know whether I would join secondary school. My mother could not afford the fees, and I kept praying for God to intervene,” Femi recalled. “I was optimistic that a way would open. I dedicated myself to prayer and fasting because I had a dream I could not afford to let die.”

Her prayers were answered through Mr Eric Ambuche, founder of the Slums Outreach Programme, who linked her to former Cabinet Minister Raphael Tuju.

“Tuju was very fatherly. I had not felt a father’s love for a long time. He gave me reassurance and comfort I had longed for over the years,” Femi said. “I knew God had answered my prayers. There was no turning back.”

She describes Tuju as humble, simple, and deeply caring. “Despite his status, he treated me with dignity. I realised my future was in my hands, and I had to make the opportunity count,” she said.

Tuju agreed to sponsor her secondary education, and Femi did not disappoint. Instead, she became a role model to girls in the slums.

“We should not only help our relatives,” Tuju said. “God commands us to help anyone whenever we can. Often, the prayers and gratitude of those we help from the heart reach God more than those of relatives who feel entitled.”

On Sunday, Femi and her family caught a glimpse of the life ahead when Tuju hosted them for lunch at his Karen residence. From the slums to leafy Karen, Femi was introduced to a future she is steadily conquering.

“Some parents have flown their children to Dubai and bought them expensive gifts,” Tuju said. “Today, I am hosting Femi and her family to recognise her achievement and to remind her that anything is possible. Commitment and dedication determine one’s future.”

Femi, the third-born in her family, is however pained by her elder sister’s situation. Despite scoring a B– in the 2022 KCSE examinations, her sister, Sophy Adhiambo, has been unable to join Moi University after her former school detained her result slip over fees arrears.

Her elder brother, who scored a C, works as a casual labourer in town, but his meagre earnings cannot offset the accumulated fees.

Tuju reaffirmed his commitment to supporting Femi through her education, noting that education is the most powerful tool to uplift a family.

“I am deeply grateful to Mr Tuju,” Femi said. “He is the father I never had. Through him, my future has taken shape, and I am determined to give back to society. This is the greatest lesson he has taught me.”

By Nixon Bugo

Greetings and new year  compliments for 2026! I have been dedicating a lot of effort and professional investments to support youth development through youth mentorship and incubation support. 

First, allow me to take this opportunity to sincerely congratulate all the candidates who sat the just concluded KCSE examinations. Again, I deliberately say those who “sat” and not those who “passed”, because success at this stage is relative. 

Each candidate has taken an important step in their academic journey, and for that alone, they deserve recognition. I wish them all the very best in their next phase of education and eventual professional careers.

As the dust settles after the examinations, conversations in many homes will be quickly shifting from results to careers. 

Some students may have already identified their preferred career choices and, by extension, their career paths.

While this clarity is commendable, it is important to caution both students—and more importantly parents—that this stage is extremely delicate and must be handled with care, balance, and foresight.

The professional, employment and business market today is dynamic, competitive, and increasingly complex. It does not always reward what appears attractive or prestigious from a distance. Careers (whether employment or business) evolve, some become saturated, others are disrupted by technology, and entirely new fields emerge with time.

Decisions made hastily, driven by excitement, peer pressure, or societal expectations, may not always serve the long-term interests of the student.

At this point, some parents and students may already be celebrating prematurely—referring to their children, say, as “doctor,” “engineer,” “lawyer,” or other professional titles. 

While this can be motivating and well-intentioned, it can also create unnecessary pressure and unrealistic expectations. A professional title is not achieved by a name alone; it is earned through years of discipline, resilience, aptitude, and consistent performance. There is a significant journey between KCSE and professional qualification or business success, and not every student who starts the journey necessarily finishes it in the same path.

Parents must therefore be careful not to project their own unfulfilled dreams, social aspirations, or status considerations onto their children.

Career guidance should not be about prestige alone, but about alignment—alignment between the student’s abilities, interests, personality, values, and the realities of the job or business market. 

A student who excels academically may still struggle in a profession that does not match their temperament or passion. Many of us are not in the profession we studied.

One of the most important roles parents can play at this stage is that of informed guides rather than decision-makers. 

This involves listening to the student, encouraging honest self-assessment, and exposing them to accurate information about various careers.

Parents should encourage career research, engagement with mentors, professionals, career counselors, and even short-term exposure or internships where possible. These interactions often provide a more realistic picture than assumptions based on societal narratives.

Additionally, parents must recognize that career paths are no longer linear. The idea that one chooses a course, graduates, and practices the same profession for life is increasingly outdated. Many professionals today change careers multiple times, pursue further specialization, or blend skills across disciplines. Therefore, flexibility and transferable skills such as critical thinking, communication, adaptability, and digital literacy are just as important as the specific course chosen.

It is also critical to manage expectations around failure and change. A student may start a course and later realize it is not the right fit. This should not be viewed as a failure but as part of growth and self-discovery. Parents who create safe spaces for such conversations empower their children to make better long-term decisions rather than forcing persistence in unsuitable paths.

In conclusion, the period immediately after KCSE is not just a transition—it is a foundation-laying phase. Excitement is natural, optimism is healthy, but wisdom lies in restraint and informed decision-making. Parents should guide with patience, humility, and openness, remembering that the ultimate goal is not just a professional title, but a fulfilled, productive, and resilient individual. When career choices are guided thoughtfully and collaboratively, students are better positioned not just to succeed, but to thrive in an ever-changing world.

The author   supports “Enable Youth program” in Africa.