By Claris Charo

All roads in Kisumu will lead to the Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium on December 14, for the 2024 edition of Mzuqa Fest.

Legendary Congolese music icon Antoine Koffi Olomidé is among musicians expected ‘to bring the house down.’   

With over 150 tracks to his name, Olominde is hugely followed in Kenya. His hit songs include, Achii and Waah, both featuring Tanzania star Diamond Platnumz.

Olomide is known for his electrifying performances, unique dancing styles and hyper energy, some of the attributes expected to be on stage for a thrilling encounter with his Kisumu fans.

He will be joined by the Zaiko Langalanga band, known for hits such as System ya Bende, Mukaji and Zekir among others.

Also on stage will be the sensational Prince Indah, Apesi and Madanji Perimeter amongst others.  

Tickets are on sale at M-Tickets.

By Zuleikha Salim

The 2024 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) entered week two with the arrest of a suspect linked to exam malpractice.  

Stephen Nyang’au Mbeche was apprehended by detectives, after being suspected of operating a Telegram group to distribute leaked KCSE examination materials to parents and candidates.

Mbeche is said to have created the group named “KCSE 2024 Leakage,” where he allegedly distributed examination papers while extorting candidates and parents.

Photos by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) indicate that the group had 802 members, with the suspect demanding upfront payment to ‘share the exam papers.’

“All KCSE papers are with me right now. Big schools are already in touch with my papers. Join the VIP channel earlier to compete with big schools in my VIP private channel. B+ and above is assured and guaranteed after payments,” reads one of the messages by the suspect to members of the group.

The DCI said that a search at Mbeche’s home led to the seizure of a mobile phone and a laptop, which were believed to be the tools he used for his activities. The suspect is being processed for prosecution.

His arrest came after the Ministry of Education assured Kenyans that no cases of cheating will go on unnoticed.

Cabinet Secretary (CS) Julius Migos confirmed that any cheating cases found during the ongoing KCSE exams, will not impact the schools where they are discovered.

Migos said that the ministry of education will deal with all the cases individually, targeting the culprits.

Last week, 10 teachers from Pala Masogo Secondary School in Homa Bay County were arrested and charged over exam malpractice.

They were freed on a Sh2 million each, after they were caught in the act of photocopying the 2024 KCSE Chemistry paper.

 

 

By Zuleikha Salim

As you drive or walk towards Moi stadium in Kisumu, from the Patel roundabout or vice versa, it is not difficult to recognize a beehive of activity going on adjacent to the Lumumba Sub-County Hospital.  

Sounds of construction machinery rent the air, with boots on ground and every hand on deck making the once quiet place a dislike for people with ‘lazy bones.’ Here, the Lumumba Affordable Housing Project is well on course.     

The project commenced in July, 2024, and is expected to be completed by January, 2026.

Envisioned as a solution to bridge the housing gap and uplift communities in Kisumu, this ambitious initiative seeks to transform urban living and offer dignity through affordable homes.

According to Samuel Onyango, the overall Site Manager, the initiative comprises 15 blocks, categorised into three types: Type A, Type B, and Type C.

“In both Type A and Type B, there are 7 blocks each, while Type C consists of just one block. The project will comprise a total of 2,400 units, each designed as two or three-bedroom apartments,” he said.

Currently, the project is at 9% completion, falling short of the anticipated 21% target.

Daniel Maganya Odhiambo, the foreman and secretary said the primary challenge lies in accurately determining the dimensions of building materials.

Another challenge, as highlighted by Benta Chelagat, a storekeeper at the project, is the concerns about issuing building materials, noting that sometimes workers request more than their quotas.

With acres of experience in the construction industry, Chelagat says women are coming out strongly to give men ‘a run for their money.’  

“What men can do; women can do better. This is evidenced by the excellent performance of the ladies here compared to their male counterparts,” she remarked.

800 people – 480 men and 320 women have landed various job opportunities at the site, since construction started mid this year.

Among them is Kapis Ojuki who said he is able to fend for his family from the earnings at the site. Workers at the site earn between Sh500 to Sh700 daily, which translates to between Sh3,500 and Sh4,900 weekly.  

“I have worked in the construction sector for 34 years, gaining extensive experience and using my skills to support my family.”

Jemima Atieno Odhiambo, an alumnus of Bondo Technical Institute in Siaya County who began as an intern, now supervises work at the site.

She expressed hope for better terms as work progresses. “Initially, I was offered lunch, which later expanded to transport facilitation. I look forward to further improvements.”

Majority of the construction materials are sourced from within Kisumu County, uplifting suppliers in one way or another.

The project is valued at Sh5.2 billion. 

By Leonard Murunga

Absa Bank Kenya on Friday hosted 200 business leaders in Kisumu for a Business Club Forum, as part of the Bank’s Western Kenya Caravan.

The forum concluded the week’s activities across the region, with other engagements held to empower Small and Media Enterprises (SMEs) in Bungoma, Busia, Kericho, Kisii, Migori, and Homabay.

The sessions focused on networking and engaging SMEs with industry leaders to enable them to thrive and grow.

Speaking during the forum in Kisumu, Absa Bank Kenya Head of Small and Medium Enterprise, Erastus Muthura, highlighted the Bank’s commitment to supporting SMEs, including women, youth and persons with disabilities (PWDs)-led SMEs.

“At Absa, we believe that every story is unique and therefore support our clients with financial and non-financial skills to scale their businesses. As a Bank, we provide access to sustainable finance, information, markets and coaching and mentorship,” said Muthura.  

“We ensure that we provide platforms through which we can interact like this one convened by the Business Club. As a Bank, we are present in 12 countries across Africa and are encouraging our customers to take advantage of the opportunity provided by the different markets in the continent,” he added.

Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) Kisumu Chapter Chairman, Israel Agina on his part, lauded the Bank for its initiative to reach SMEs and highlighted the key role they play in the economy.

“SMEs play an important role in our communities and are important for the sustenance of our supply chains. We are grateful to Absa for their support today as we discuss issues of resilience and for supporting SMEs during the tough economic times.”

The bank has hosted similar forums in Nakuru County, Mombasa County, Nyeri County. It is set to hold similar business forums in the Rift Valley region in the coming week.

 

 

Na Jabali Media

Katibu mpya wa kaunti ya Kisumu ameapishwa.

Hesbon Hongo aliapishwa hii leo kwenye hafla fupi iliyohudhuriwa na gavana wa Kisumu Profesa Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o, pamoja na naibu wake Mathew Owili miongoni mwa wengine.

Akizungumza baada ya kuapishwa kwa Hongo, gavana Nyong’o ametoa changamoto kwake kufanya kazi kwa bidii ili kuhakikisha huduma bora kwa wananchi wa Kisumu.

"Umepewa nafasi hii ili kuwahudumia wananchi, sio kujihudumia wewe mwenyewe,” akasema Nyong’o.

Nyong’o amesema kuwa ikiwa ni miaka mitatu tu kabla ya uchaguzi mkuu wa mwaka 2027, wafanyakazi wote wa umma wana jukumu la kuwatumikia wananchi ipasavyo.

"Ikiwa utaanza mbio kwa lengo la kutomaliza, basi hakuna haja ya kukimbia.”

Kauli yake iliungwa mkono na naibu wake Owili, aliyemtaka Hongo kufuata nyayo za Nyong’o, aliyemtaja kama mchapakazi hodari.

Ameongeza kuwa Katibu huyo wa kaunti ni kama mchezaji wa mpira, anayeingia uwanjani kama nguvu mpya ili kuisaidia timu yake kipindi cha lala salama.

“Tumesalia na miaka mitatu kumaliza muhula huu. Unakuja na nguvu mpya, wacha uwezo wako kazini ukaonekane,” akaongeza Owili.

Hafla hiyo pia ilihudhuriwa na spika wa bunge la kaunti ya Kisumu Elisha Jack Oraro. Kwa upande wake, Hongo amesema kuwa yuko tayari kuchapa kazi kwa bidii.

Anaziba pengo la John Auma aliyeachishwa kazi mwezi Machi mwaka huu, chini ya mwaka mmoja baada ya kuapishwa.

 

By Florence Omolloh

A group of gold miners from Vihiga and Kakamega counties have received the much-needed training on safety and curbing accidents at work.

The three-day training supported by Taita Taveta University was held in Kakamega town, bringing together various stakeholders within the mining sector with a view of sharing information on best practices, as far as mining is concerned.  

Professor Maurice Juma Ogada, a lecturer under the agricultural and economics department at Taita Taveta University most miners are not aware of human rights associated with mining.

“It is important to note that there are human rights associated with mining, and many artisanal miners have abused human rights without knowing it. We have trained people from different counties mostly in the coastal region and we decided to venture into the western region,” said Ogada.

“Lives have been lost because of the way we conduct our mining. We dig in total disregard of the safety measures that have been put in place. Blasting is done in a careless way,” he added.

Professor Christine Onyango, the institution’s deputy Vice Chancellor on her part stated that the majority of the miners in the country lack knowledge on value addition, financial management, technical skills and market segments.

“One of the things that we do as artisanal outreach is to work with artisanal miners to help them build their lives around the passion they have for mining. We want to help them, whether it's value addition or getting the right skills, and especially in financial management,” she added.

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Professor Christine Onyango. Photo/LM

Niva Mahiva, chairman of the Union of Cooperatives in Western Kenya and Kakamega County in his address urged the government to initiate a school of mining at Taita Taveta University, to offer training opportunities to budding miners.

“The national government and county governments should provide equipment, whether through grants or as a loan so that mining can change the economic fortunes of miners in this region.”

By Jabali Media

Ezekiel Marley Ayiego is dead.

Until his demise on Tuesday night at his residence, Ayiego was the Vihiga County Secretary and Head of Public Service.  

The former Chasamis Boys High School Principal was a change advocate, according to Vihiga governor Wilber Ottichilo.

“Mr. Ayiego, who unexpectedly passed away last night at his residence, was a committed administrator, educator, change advocate, and a dear friend to me and many others. He served as a highly efficient County Secretary in my administration, where we diligently collaborated to reform the Vihiga County Public Service,” Ottichilo said in his condolence message.

“On behalf of my family, the county staff and the people of Vihiga County, I wish to send my deep condolences to the family and friends of Ezekiel Marley Ayiego,” he added.  

Oyiego was sworn in as County Secretary on June 04, 2020.

He landed the post after emerging top among the 8 candidates shortlisted for the job.

22 applicants had expressed interest, before the list was narrowed to 8 that faced the interviewing panel.

Ayiego’s demise serves the governor a huge blow, since he had entrusted him with streamlining the county workforce, specifically addressing issues to do with staff audit, promotions and fairness to all employees.

Burial arrangements are ongoing.

 

By Daniel Dembede

The Public Benefit Organizations (PBO) Regulatory Authority, alongside PBO leaders and various stakeholders, convened a collaborative forum to initiate the comprehensive implementation of the Public Benefit Organizations Act of 2013.

The Act was operationalized on May 14, 2024.

The forum aimed to discuss effective strategies for implementing the PBO Act, allowing stakeholders to share insights and feedback on fostering a supportive regulatory environment that empowers PBOs to enhance their impact on Kenya's social and economic development goals.

Lindon Nicholas, acting Director and CEO of the PBO Regulatory Authority, stated that the implementation of the PBO Act is a crucial step towards strengthening the regulatory framework for the non-profit sector in Kenya.

“This Act aims to create a conducive environment for public benefit organisations, allowing them to effectively contribute to the nation's development agenda,” he explained.

The PBO Regulatory Authority has prioritised stakeholder engagement to ensure that the regulatory framework aligns with best practices and addresses the needs of the organisations it serves.

A central component of this implementation process is a robust public participation initiative, designed to involve a diverse range of stakeholders, including civil society organisations, government representatives, and development partners.

“This initiative marks a significant leap towards realising the vision of the PBO Act. By facilitating discussions among civil society, government, and development partners, we ensure that the regulatory framework reflects the realities faced by Kenya's non-profit sector, ultimately empowering PBOs to make a meaningful difference,” Lindon emphasised.

He reiterated the Authority's commitment to establishing a public participation framework that facilitates consultations across various regions in Kenya, ensuring that community voices are heard in shaping regulations governing the non-profit sector.

Suba Churchill, a PBO representative attending the forum, stated that the new regulatory framework sets high ethical standards for transparency and accountability within the sector.

“One key aspect of the new law is the establishment of self-regulating frameworks, including the National Federation of PBOs, which was previously known as the NGO Council.”

He further noted that there will also be county-based self-regulating forums, each required to adopt a code of conduct for their members.

Churchill emphasised that the PBO Act represents a paradigm shift in raising accountability standards, addressing past criticisms of the sector. He expressed his commitment to collaboration moving forward within this new framework.

“As actors—regulators, stakeholders, and PBOs—we are all committed to serving Kenyans. We look forward to creating an enabling environment where the regulator, government agencies, and the private sector can collaborate, as some foundations are established by private entities,” he said.

He expressed optimism that the law will encourage the private sector to establish foundations that can fund PBOs, reducing reliance on foreign agencies or governments.

 

 

By Leonard Murunga 

Fathers have been challenged to be part and parcel of their children’s growth.

According to Elaine Wacuka Hurt, Director of Policy and Partnerships at Kidogo Early Years, nurturing a child should not be left to women or mothers alone.

“Be part of your children’s lives. Make sure your child sees you on a daily basis because nurturing a child is not a job for the woman to do alone,” said the Director.

“Children also rely on their father figures as they grow into adults.”     

She spoke on Saturday, during Kidogo Early Years 10th anniversary at Ofafa memorial hall in Kisumu.

The organisation, Hurt said, has a network of 2,000 childcare providers caring for 57,000 children under five years across the country.

“We work collaboratively with other organisations as well as the government to address specific issues across the board that concern child care to make sure that the child grows up as a healthy and productive member of the society,” she noted.

During the event, it was revealed that the county government of Kisumu was planning to set up at least a daycare centre in every market centre, for the safety of children.

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Wilkister Awino Odera, Kisumu County Director of Education. Photo/LM

Wilkister Awino Odera, Kisumu County Director of Education urged parents to enrol their children in daycare settings, instead of leaving them unattended to when leaving for job or business related ventures.

“We don’t want children left around loitering with nobody to take care of them. We are also advocating against children being locked in houses, which can be dangerous in the event of a fire outbreak” she added.

Janet Habibu, a daycare attendant said through Kidogo, she has been empowered with key childcare techniques.

“Don’t struggle with kids, bring them to our facilities more so under Kidogo so that you can run your errands with less worry,” she appealed.

Similarly, Charles Omondi who also owns a daycare said that through Kidogo, the number of children he handles has increased tremendously, over the years.

“Kidogo has really made me be at par. I stand here with shoulders high because of Kidogo,” he insisted.

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By Leonard Murunga

The Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) has initiated plans geared towards the upgrade of Maseno Mission health facility, to a level five hospital.  

The ball started rolling over the weekend, during the launch of the ACK Maseno Mission Hospital and Anglican Medical Training College Strategic Plans, 2025-2029  

Speaking during the launch, Dr. Samwel Mwenda who represented Harry Kimtai, Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Health said that upon implementation of the two strategic plans, the hospital will become a centre for research and collaboration in medical tourism.

He said the move will, without a doubt, create a future where every Kenyan will access quality healthcare, adding that they will support the hospital in the implementation of the plans.

“As the Ministry, we stand ready to support and collaborate with you. Together we will create the future where every Kenyan has access to quality healthcare and opportunity to education,” he shared.

“As we embark on this journey, I urge everyone surrounding the facility to work together to bring this vision to life.” 

According to ACK Maseno North Diocese Bishop Charles Asilutwa, upgrading of the mission hospital and its offshoot medical college will go a long way in enhancing its capacity in the provision of quality healthcare services, in tandem with creating job opportunities for the surrounding communities.

“The launch of these strategic plans is an important landmark for the institutions involved. It marks a milestone in the growth and development of the hospital as well as the college. It is the foremost policy blueprint which will guide the organisation in implementation of its activities, projects and programs for the next five years.”

“This strategic plan will therefore provide a road map for addressing the challenges encountered by aligning the unique strengths and emerging opportunities that we have in the two institutions to be able to grow it to great heights,” said the clergy.

On his part, Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi called upon the national government to come up with policies that will aid the growth of mission hospitals, owing to the role they play in provision of healthcare services to locals.

“I urge the government to consider, empower and invest in mission hospitals to make them grow because they help communities.”

The senator also called upon the Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetang’ula, to expedite the passage of the County Boundaries Bill, 2024 into law, in order to solve border disputes in the country.

The mission hospital was started in 1906. 

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By Jabali Media

A record 134 graduates from the Kisumu Young Men Christian Association (YMCA) have joined the job market.

They graduated during a colourful event held at the institution on Thursday, having undergone extensive training in beauty therapy, catering and hospitality, hair dressing, motor vehicle mechanics, tailoring and dress making, plumbing and computer operations among other courses.

Speaking during the institution's 8th graduation ceremony, Engineer Tom Waka, YMCA Kenya national chairman who presided over the event as guest speaker said as a middle level economy, Kenya needs tertiary graduates in plenty.

“It is this level of training which is hands-on that can propel our country towards self-technical sustainability,” said Waka.

Plans are at an advanced stage, Engineer Waka said, to transform the Kenya YMCA College of Agriculture and Technology, into a fully-fledged university. 

“There is a shift from secular degree programs to middle level training. This is good for our country as we shall now have hands on graduates who can easily transit to university education.”

“You will be surprised that plumbers, fitters and fashion designers among others are rare in this country. This is an area where YMCA is filling this huge gap,” added the chief guest.  

Pamela Kaleka, Kisumu YMCA Manager reminded the graduates that they were getting out of school when the world is facing numerous challenges that need problem solvers to address.

“You are technology natives, born and educated in a technological world that was only found in science fiction stories when many of us here were in school. You are the generation that will take the technology of today to new dimensions,” said the Manager.

“You are the ones who will bring solutions to environmental concerns, global warming and conservation of natural resources among others.”

As they join the job market, she urges them to make the world a better place. 

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By Florence Omolloh 

Kenyans have been advised to venture into snail farming, which has been termed a profitable economic activity.  

According to Dr. Paul Kinoti, horticulture and food security faculty lecturer at the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), has proved that snail farming is profitable.

He said they are currently running a giant snail farm within the university, using slime to make skin care products such as soaps and shower gel.

“Basically, we are researching on how to generate products that are beneficial to our people and to the society at large,” said Dr. Kinoti.  

“We make cosmetics and body skin care products such as soaps, body cream and shower gels. Also, we are working together with our partners on developing a cough syrup,” he added.

He said the JKUAT horticultural and food security department has tested their products as the market dictates, and the response has been  positive.

He added that the main aim is to change the perception about snail slime products, among their target customers.

“One of our target customers are people with albinism because of the ultra-violet radiation effect on their skin. We had a taste and the response was very positive. We also distributed some of the products to the students, and also the response was positive,” he added.

JKUAT Vice Chancellor, Prof. Victoria Wambui Ngumi, on her part noted the impact of the snail breeding research aspect into the university’s core focus of innovation and technology.

“With this we’re looking at a considerable impact on food security, climate change mitigation and achieving universal health coverage.”

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