Na Florence Omollo

Mvulana mmoja mwenye umri wa miaka kumi na miwili, amelazwa hospitalini akiuguza majeraha mabaya ya moto.

Hii ni baada ya nyumba nane za kukodisha kuteketea kutokana na moto uliosababishwa na mlipuko wa betri katika nyumba moja ya kukodisha, kwenye kituo cha kibiashara cha God Jope, eneo la Lambwe Magharibi, kaunti ya Homabay.

Mvulana huyo alipelekwa katika kituo cha afya cha Ogong, baada ya kupata majeraha mabaya kwenye mkono wake wa kushoto, alipojaribu kukata nyaya za umeme kwenye betri hiyo, mnamo Jumatatu.

Kaimu Chifu wa Lambwe Magharibi Fredrick Onyango Odera, ameeleza kuwa betri hiyo ilikuwa inatumia nguvu za umeme kutoka kwenye sola iliyolipuka, wakati kijana huyo alipojaribu kukata nyaya bila mafanikio.

Chifu huyo amesema kuwa mvulana huyo aliokolewa na majirani, huku nyumba hizo zilizokuwa zimejengwa kutumia mabati zikiteketea pamoja na mali yenye thamani isiyojulikana.

Familia kumi zilizoathirika na mkasa huo, zililazimika kukesha kwenye kijibaridi usiku kucha.

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By Diana Alivitsa Jumba

Sharon Awuor Odhiambo is a sickle cell advocate, warrior and champion.

The development strategist, a native of Homabay but currently a resident of Kisumu, has lived with the disease for her entire 30 years; with health, financial and emotional challenges sometimes taking a toll on her.

However, Sharon remains resilient and determined, emphasising the importance of managing the disease through medication, nutrition and hydration.

She underscores the necessity of bone marrow transplants for potential cure, while expressing concerns about the lack of access to basic medications for chronic diseases in Kenya, especially for those with limited financial resources.  

“The healthcare system in Kenya for chronic diseases especially sickle cell is not very good, because even the basic medication that these people are supposed to be given in hospital, they are not able to get considering the people who live below the dollar level are not able to access these medications and treatment,” she said.

Sharon called on both the national and county government to improve the healthcare system, so as to ensure access to medication regardless of one’s financial status.

She advocated for genetic testing to prevent the spread of sickle cell. Similarly, she urged individuals to prioritise compatibility before marriage to avoid cases of the disease in future generations.

Encouraging those living with sickle cell, she emphasised that it is not a death sentence, urging them to embrace self-acceptance and self-love.

Sharon added, “People need more knowledge, awareness and support because many warriors get stigmatised every day.”

Her sentiments are echoed by Michelle Nabalayo, another warrior. Nabalaya is a student at the University of Eastern Africa Baraton.

She says she manages the disease through hydration – taking more water than normal.

“I want people to understand that sickle cell is a serious disease so that more awareness can be created,” she added, calling for the reduction in prices of folic and hydroxyurea, which are used in managing the disease.

Exit the two warriors and the question begs, “What really do you know about sickle cell disease?”

Dr. Damacline Abuya during the interview. Photo/AJ

According to Dr. Damacline Abuya, resident medical officer at the Jeremic Baraton hospital, it is a condition that affects the shape of red blood cells.

“In medical terms, we call it hemoglobinopathy because it is a condition that affects red blood cells. People are said to have sickle cell disease when they have a gene mutation in their haemoglobin which is a protein that carries oxygen in the blood,” stated the expert.

“Haemoglobin is an oxygen carrier in the red blood cells. It aids in the distribution of oxygen to the tissues,” adds Amy Ogot, a lecturer at the University of Eastern Africa Baraton.

When someone inherits a pair of genes of haemoglobin from both parents, they get sickle cell disease.

In other instances, a person can inherit one sickle cell gene from one parent and a normal haemoglobin gene that is haemoglobin A, from the other parent. When that happens, it is referred to as a cell trait.

This individual will experience only severe symptoms when one is exposed to certain conditions like oxygen tension, reduction in atmospheric pressure and low acidity.

“It is called sickle cell disease because there is a change in the shape. Blood cells are disc shaped but in patients with sickle cell disease, their blood cells are sickle shaped, so it makes it difficult for them to traverse the blood vessels,” said Dr. Abuya.

As one of the disease management measures, an individual with sickle cell should always avoid dehydration, carbonated drinks and cold temperatures.

They should also, at all costs, prevent malaria, viral and bacterial infections. Some of the lifestyle changes recommended for people with the condition are a balanced diet, getting hydrated, keeping warm, use of mosquito nets and prevention of infections.

During a painful and hemolytic crisis, a lot of  red blood cells get destroyed. In order to replace them, one will need blood transfusion, which in turn increases the chances of survival and reduces sickle cells in the body.

The treatment used over time is hydroxyurea. And since it is a genetic disease, there is no known cure. 

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By Jabali Media

The government has received Mpox testing kits and medicines for neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).

The donation was made by USAID and other health partners, and delivered through the World Health Organization (WHO).  

Speaking during the handover on Monday, Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Health, Dr. Deborah Barasa, said the supplies will strengthen the country’s efforts to combat these diseases.

“This timely support comes as our nation grapples with an ongoing Mpox outbreak. The introduction of these testing kits will enhance our capacity to detect and respond to Mpox cases more swiftly and effectively, ultimately saving lives and curbing the spread of this outbreak,” said the CS.

She highlighted the importance of Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaigns in controlling NTDs, which include lymphatic filariasis, soil-transmitted helminths, and schistosomiasis, particularly in high-burden regions.

WHO Representative to Kenya, Dr. Abdourahmane Diallo, confirmed the donation of 15,215,000 NTD tablets valued at USD 1.6 million, intended for this month’s MDA.

He reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to supporting Kenya’s goal of eliminating NTDs, including schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiases, by 2030.

Kenya has confirmed over 10 Mpox cases across the country. Five cases are currently in management while seven have fully recovered.

The cases have been confirmed in Nakuru (2), Kajiado (2), Taita Taveta, Busia, Mombasa, Bungoma, Kericho, Kilifi and Nairobi.

Mpox, according to WHO, is an illness caused by the monkeypox virus.

The virus can spread to humans from an animal host, such as rodents or nonhuman primates such as monkeys.

The virus also can spread between people.

In humans, Mpox can cause flu-like symptoms and an itchy, painful rash. Treatment for most people with Mpox is to relieve symptoms.

There is an Mpox vaccine. People at high risk of the illness or who were recently exposed to the virus may be able to get the vaccine.

Most people recover without complications. But some people can get seriously ill from Mpox. Rarely, Mpox can be deadly.

Mpox symptoms tend to start within 21 days after you come in contact with the virus. You may have symptoms that are like the flu, including a sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and a cough.

Other symptoms may include swollen lymph nodes, fever and chills, headache, backache, fatigue, muscle aches and backaches.

Treatment for most people with Mpox is aimed at easing symptoms. Care may include preventing skin damage from the Mpox rash or using pain medication you can get without a prescription. 

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By MCK

The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has urged the media to enhance efforts to promote public trust in the banking sector.

MCK CEO David Omwoyo says the media remains a critical player in creating awareness around efforts aimed at protecting depositors and enhancing public confidence in the country’s financial system.

“The media is a vital bridge in breaking down complex financial information to depositors about their investments besides playing a key role in disseminating information on matters around the safety of our financial systems,” he said.

Omwoyo spoke on Friday, when he graced a business editors’ forum organised by the Council and the Kenya Deposit Insurance Corporation (KDIC) in Machakos.

“When the public has the right information, they make crucial decisions concerning their savings and investment institutions. However, the lack of sufficient information has contributed to uncertainties, including the collapse of financial institutions. There is a need to assure depositors based on legal frameworks to build their trust”, he said.

Omwoyo argued that lack of sufficient information creates room for hearsay, causing a ripple effect to the affected institutions and the economy.

“Lack of sufficient information on the status of some financial institutions has resulted in their downfall. When the public is sufficiently informed, rumours are dispelled, and the public trust and confidence is raised”, he noted.

He affirmed the Council’s commitment to collaborate with the KDIC in engaging the media in efforts to create awareness around deposit protection and enhanced financial reporting while noting the critical role editors play in the news production cycle.

KDIC CEO Hellen Chepkwony acknowledged the role of the media in undertaking public awareness.

“KDIC recognises the centrality of the media in the dissemination of the correct public messaging to build the public’s confidence in the country’s financial systems which remains paramount,” she said in a speech read on her behalf by KDIC Legal Director, Eunice Kitche-Oduor.

 “This forum is designed to deepen our engagement and enhance our capacity, aimed at promoting and safeguarding financial stability in the country.”

By Jabali Media

Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Public Service and Human Capital Development Justin Muturi has assured Kenyans of improved service delivery, especially at Huduma Centres across the country.  

Speaking on Friday when he visited the Kisumu Huduma Centre located at the Prosperity Building, the former Attorney General said he witnessed a high sense of dedication of the staff in meeting the needs of the public.

While they are making great strides, the former National Assembly Speaker said, he recognizes the fact that there are still a few challenges along the way.

“Rest assured, we are already working to resolve these issues, ensuring that Kenyans continue to experience seamless, efficient, and improved service delivery,” added Muturi.  

“Our goal is to elevate the standard across all Huduma Centres as we strive for a more efficient and accountable public service.”

The CS encouraged Huduma Kenya officers countrywide to offer their service with a smile, passion, and courtesy.

“It's important that as we deliver services to Mwananchi, we do so with the utmost efficiency and a human touch, ensuring every Kenyan is treated with dignity and respect.”

From Kisumu, the CS proceeded to Homabay County for another visit to the Huduma Centre and the National Youth Service (NYS).

He started his tour by paying a courtesy call on Homabay governor Gladys Wanga at her office, with their meeting centering on enhancing public service delivery and exploring collaborative initiatives to better serve Kenyans.

The Huduma Kenya Service Delivery Program (HKSDP), is a Kenya Vision 2030 flagship project established via the Kenya Gazette Notice No. 2177 of 4th April, 2014.

The program has the mandate of among others, to transform public service delivery in order to ensure access to efficient, effective and citizen-centric services through One-Stop-Shop platforms, otherwise known as Huduma Centres.

Huduma Kenya has operationalized and manages over 57 Huduma Centers across the 47 Counties.

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By Jabali Media

As dust settles on the election of the new Pentecostal Assemblies of God (PAG) Church General Superintendent (GS) Kenneth Adiara, Church members are preparing to elect new district overseers across the country.

Overseer elections are expected to be held in the course of this month, with aspirants stepping up campaigns ahead of the D-day.

Reverend Gerishom Andani, Presiding Pastor, PAG Kenya Muthiga Assembly is in the race to become the next overseer, Kabete Original District.  

Service to God and humanity, he says, will be at the core of his leadership, if elected.

“Additionally, youth and women empowerment, holistic development of the district, accountability and honest leadership make up a huge chunk of my manifesto,” he told this writer.  

In one of his online posts, he quoted 1st Timothy 3:1, which speaks on one seeking to become a leader in the Church, to desire good work.

“If a man desires the office of a bishop, he desires good work. It’s my humble prayer. With God all things are possible,” he wrote.

In reaction, his followers wished him all the best. Here is a sample:

Collins Cheywe: Matthew 7:7. God is faithful, you will get Rev.

Claire Zedekia: By God’s grace, you deserve it.

James Israel: Good luck.

Calvin Kiprono Singwa: You already have it... Mbingu imekubali.

Ayub Lubwa: You are able. In fact, we want to see you in the council.

Meanwhile, Adiara assumed office after a dedication service was held at the Nyang’ori Mission headquarters on Wednesday.

He was elected new PAG GS on Tuesday, October 01, to succeed Reverend Patrick Lihanda.

Adiara urged church elders to forever pray for him, so that he successfully leads the Church as a one unified body of Christ Jesus.

“Keep praying for me, hold my hands. Elders, I really need your advice. Never shy away from coming here. This is your home,” he said.

He said his inauguration will come up at a later date.

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Na Jabali Media

Wanafunzi wa shule ya upili ya wavulana ya kutwa na bweni ya Kisumu, wana kila sababu ya kutabasamu baada ya kupokea msaada wa vitabu.

Vitabu hivyo vilivyotolewa na Wakfu wa Benki ya ABSA Kenya (AKF), vilinunuliwa kwa thamani ya kima cha shilingi laki sita.   

Akizungumza wakati wa hafla hiyo shuleni humo Jumatatu jioni, Charles Wokabi, Mkuu wa kitengo cha Maendeleo Endelevu na Mauzo katika Benki ya ABSA, alisema kuwa wanashirikiana na shule mbali mbali nchini, chini ya mwavuli wa elimu na ujuzi kuwa-anda wanafunzi kuingia kwenye soko la ajira.

Wokabi anasema kuwa Benki ya ABSA imeshirikiana na Kisumu Day kwa mda mrefu, wakijivunia kujenga mahabara ya tarakilishi kwenye taasisi hiyo ya elimu.  

“Lengo letu kwenye shule kama hii ya Kisumu Day ni ushirikiano wa mda mrefu unaowasaidia wanafunzi kujiandaa kwa mstakabali wao maishani, kuwasaidia kujenga taaluma na kuekeza kwao katika kiwango hiki cha maisha yao,” akasema Wokabi.

Kwa mujibu wa Wokabi, wanashirikana na shule mbali mbali nchini, katika mchakato ambao umefanikisha ujenzi wa mahabara kwenye shule 72 za upili kote nchini kufikia sasa.

Kwenye taarifa, Meneja Mkurugenzi na Afisa Mkuu Mtendaji wa Benki ya ABSA Kenya  Abdi Mohamed alisema, “Kama taasisi ya kifedha, kila tunachofanya kinahusiana na maksudi yetu: Kuwezesha Afrika ya kesho pamoja, hadithi moja baada ya nyingine.”

“Tunaamini kwamba elimu ndio injini ya kuelekeza jamii katika mabadiliko, na silaha ya kudhihirisha uwezo wa kila mmoja,” akaongeza.

Usimamizi wa Kisumu Day ulipongeza Wakfu huo kwa msaada huo. Kisumu Day ni miongoni mwa shule kubwa jijini Kisumu, ikiwa na wanafunzi zaidi ya 1,400 na walimu zaidi ya 60.

Juma lililopita, Benki ya ABSA Kenya ilizindua Wakfu ambao utashughulikia masuala manne makuu: Biashara, elimu na ujuzi, utunzi wa raslimali na mazingira, afya na misaada ya kibanadamu.

Wakfu huo unatarajiwa kuwafikia vijana milioni 1 kupitia mpango wa ABSA ‘Tayari Kufanya Kazi’ miongoni mwa miradi mingine.

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By Jabali Media

Police officers attached to the Kondele Police Station in Kisumu, have nabbed a murder suspect after months of relentless pursuit.

According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Oliver Ochieng Jaoko alias Olivert was involved in the brutal hacking to death of Evans Opiyo and Mohammed Saleh in July, at the Kibuye Market.

“Ochieng’s arrest comes in the wake of his involvement in the brutal hacking to death of Evans Opiyo and Mohammed Saleh on July 1, 2024, at Kibuye Market over a dispute that erupted concerning the control of proceeds from five washrooms at the bustling market,” said the DCI.

He then vanished before a manhunt was launched.

“Acting on a tip-off, he was smoked out of his hideout in the Manyatta area and apprehended,” added the DCI.

In July, two people were hacked to death at the Kibuye market over leadership wrangles and dispute in the management of toilets.

An armed group carrying the body of a man hacked to death at the market in the morning, started attacking traders in the evening in retaliation.

Traders fought back, overpowering the group before allegedly killing one of them, while several others were injured.  

Security officers from Kondele police station responded swiftly, using  teargas canisters to disperse the warring factions as traders and boda boda operators fled for safety.

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By Jabali Media

Doctors under the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) have issued a 14-day strike notice.

KMPDU Secretary General Dr. Davji Bhimji Atellah said doctors will have no choice but to go on strike, if concerns they have raised over implementation of the Social Health Authority (SHA) are not addressed within 14 days.   

“We stand united to express our grave concerns following the roll-out of the Social Health Authority (SHA) on October 1st. Despite repeated warnings and feedback from Kenyans, the transition from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to SHA has led to significant challenges for civil servants, public sector workers, and the wider public,” Atellah said in an address to the press.  

He said public servants have lost access to the healthcare coverage they once enjoyed under NHIF, with no clear communication on what SHA will offer.

SHA, Atellah added, is deducting more from workers' salaries, but providing less.

“This is unacceptable, as workers are paying more for substandard services, threatening their well-being.”

Of particular concern, the Secretary General said, the SHA transition threatens the jobs of those employed by NHIF, creating additional uncertainty for workers and their families.

He called for 100% transition of previously employed NHIF employees with full benefits, besides immediate assurance of continuity of comprehensive healthcare coverage for public servants.

Atellah asked for full engagement with unions to review SHA's shortcomings, in a bid to find fair solutions for Kenyans.

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By Lameck Baraza

The County Government of Busia, in collaboration with the British High Commission, launched the Community Action Plan and Agriculture Digital Platform, valued at Kshs. 390 million, benefiting both Busia and Mandera counties.

Busia County Governor, Paul Otuoma, emphasized the transformative potential of the digital program, which aims to empower farmers, particularly youth, women, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities. 

This initiative provides real-time updates on markets, farm inputs, and outputs, thereby monetizing the rural economy and improving livelihoods.

“We celebrate the collaboration with the UK Government to revolutionize our agricultural ecosystem and resource management,” Otuoma said.

The governor added that the initiative will unlock opportunities for young people and marginalized groups, enhancing their livelihoods through increased agricultural production.

Deputy British High Commissioner, Ed Barnett, while addressing Busia residents during the launch, reaffirmed the UK Government’s commitment to this partnership. 

He emphasized the provision of digital skills and training opportunities as a key component of the initiative.

Busia governor Paul Otuoma and agriculture Chief Officer Timothy Odende. Photo/LB

“I urge our young people and marginalized groups to embrace this digital program. It will revolutionize agriculture and provide a pathway to supply raw materials to the Export Processing Zone (EPZ) and the County Aggregation and Industrial Park (CAIP) in Nasewa, Matayos Constituency,” Barnett said.

Barnett highlighted that the projects are expected to create over 5,000 job opportunities in the county.

The innovative platform will not only connect farmers to markets but also provide access to essential agricultural services across the county.

Otuoma reminded farmers that the initiative will offer real-time weather updates, market information, and growth management advice, positioning them to make informed decisions and thrive in a competitive agricultural landscape.

The governor mentioned that the platform’s emphasis on inclusivity and digital literacy aims to bridge the gap for marginalized communities, driving sustainable economic growth and fostering resilience.

By Jabali Media

Pwani Oil Products Limited through its revamped Ushindi multipurpose bar soap brand has announced a capacity-building partnership with Mama Fua – Kenya.

Mama Fua – Kenya, is a leading mobile platform that connects trained home cleaners with households across the country.

In a press release, Pwani Oil said the campaign, which runs until the end of 2024 is set to benefit over 4,500 daytime domestic workers, popularly known as ‘Mama Fua’ through training and equipping them with the cleaning tools needed to enhance their professional credibility.

Additionally, Mama Fua app users will benefit from basic training sessions that will cover the efficient use of the multipurpose soap for various household cleaning needs.

Pwani Oil’s Commercial Director, Rajul Malde said the partnership is a step in the right direction.

“Partnering with Mama Fua allows us to play an even greater role in keeping Kenyan homes clean. We believe that cleanliness is not just about the products used, but about the people who make it happen. ‘Mama Fuas’ are the unsung heroes of Kenyan households and we are proud to embrace and offer them the support they deserve.”

On her part, Stephine Ngutah, the founder and CEO of Mama Fua said:

“We are excited about this partnership because it aligns with our mission to enhance the skills, credibility and opportunities available to domestic workers across Kenya. This collaboration will ensure that our domestic workers not only have affordable cleaning tools but also the support to thrive in their profession.”

To meet the demand for high quality cleaning products, Ushindi recently increased its production by 25%.

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By Kisumu County

The County government of Kisumu is poised to launch a comprehensive referral strategy, aimed at strengthening its healthcare system and improving patient outcomes.

The draft strategy, currently in the final stages of validation, was a key focus of a recent meeting held at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH).

Stakeholders in the county's healthcare sector gathered at the validation meeting, emphasising the importance of patient-centred care.

Dr. Ojwang' Lusi, Kisumu County Chief Officer for Health, lauded the efforts of the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), which plays a crucial role in coordinating referrals.

He highlighted the need for prioritising patients during the dispensing process, regardless of whether they come from public or private facilities.

"Every patient must be served with utmost care and dedication at all times," Dr. Lusi said.

The new referral strategy, according to Zachary Oketch, the County Referral Coordinator, promises to enhance access to services across all six levels of healthcare within the county.

"We'll be able to strengthen our referral systems and, in the process, reverse any declining health indicators," he said.

Dr. Richard Leisyampe, the Chief Executive Officer of JOOTRH, welcomed the referral strategy as a solution to the facility's overwhelming patient load.

He addressed the importance of the validation exercise in ensuring the strategy's successful implementation in the near future.

Drafted in 2022, the County Referral Strategy seeks to establish a well-coordinated system for ambulatory services.

Key highlights include the implementation of an Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system for referrals, fostering research and innovation, and establishing clear referral protocols to ensure continuity of care during patient transfers.