Category: Features

By Susan Majimbo

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My heart breaks for Sarah, she was attacked by three men, beaten blue, and stabbed. Her sight is blurry because unfortunately there is bleeding in one of her eyes (According to a report by Usikimye, a Kenyan based revolutionary organization that works towards ending Gender Based Violence). Why you may I ask? She was dressed like a man. The story of Sarah is not new. The masculine rubric in our country is threatened by women like Sarah, who confidently choose to express themselves differently from what defies the expectations that have been kept on women.

As Oyerunke Oyewumi writes in The Invention of Women, “If gender is socially constructed then gender cannot behave in the same way across time and space.” She argues that it is only logical to assume that gender construction need not have existed at all in some societies, as we must acknowledge the diverse factors such as culture that must have been part of the construction. This is to say that gender transcends societal expectations that are forcefully placed on women particularly.

Gender is not a rigid concept.

It is disheartening to acknowledge that modes of dressing among women are reasons that could endanger the lives of women. How women dress does not justify any forms of violence and harm inflicted on them. This has been a notion that has been challenged through slogans such as “my dress my choice” which are reminders that women have the liberty to control their bodies and preferences. Of course, this has been met by counter-narratives such as “how you dress is how you’ll be addressed”, which in my opinion promotes rape culture and violence against women.

The bottom line is, that there is no justification for any form of violence by choice of dress!

By Jessica Akinyi

They say time waits for no man, well, it’s high time to discover the root cause of the rising issue that is affecting women worldwide. When people hear femicide, they most often assume it is tied to feminism therefore looking at it in terms of battle of equality of the sexes. This should not be the case because femicide is any killing of women or girls. It occurs because violence against women continues to be accepted, tolerated and justified.

The term was first established by Diana E. H. Russell in 1976 during the First International Tribunal of Crimes Against Women held in Brussels. The realization was that femicide is deeply rooted in gender-based discrimination which takes different shapes and forms. Its classification is manifested in three forms; the behavior of the perpetrator, the relationship with victims and context of occurrence of the crime.

Let’s look at the three major types of femicide.

• Femicide by an intimate partner – an intimate partner kills the wife or girlfriend due to prior abusive relationship.
• Femicide by family – this is committed by a family member. One example is “honour” killings whereby if a woman or girl goes against the norms of the family they are killed and also dowry death which is caused by the bride’s family failing to give the grooms family money or other valuables leading to domestic violence.
• Femicide in war and conflict setting – women are targeted during war and are raped as a form of weakening the opponents.

From the past to present, it’s time for each and every voice to be heard. The society should be fed up of the deafening news on femicide cases across the country. We must plant the seeds of fraternity.

By Joe Aura,

aurajoe6@gmail.com

15/04/1912 , 112 years ago, one of the most infamous maritime disasters in
history shook the world: the sinking of the RMS Titanic. With sombre reflection, we
commemorate the lives lost and the lessons learned from this tragic event.
The Titanic, a marvel of its time, was constructed at the Harland and Wolff shipyard in Belfast,
Ireland. Its grand hull, launched into the River Lagan on May 31, 1911, symbolized human
ingenuity and ambition. Over 100,000 spectators bore witness to its majestic unveiling, unaware
of the fate that awaited the ship.

The cost of building the Titanic was staggering, amounting to $7,500,000 in 1912. Adjusted for
inflation, this figure would be equivalent to approximately $166,000,000 today. Ironically, this
sum pales in comparison to the budget of the iconic 1997 film adaptation by James Cameron, a
testament to the enduring fascination with the Titanic’s story.

Tragedy struck on April 15, 1912, as the Titanic, during its maiden voyage from Southampton to
New York City, collided with an iceberg in the frigid waters of the North Atlantic. Within hours,
the unsinkable ship succumbed to the relentless embrace of the ocean, claiming the lives of over
1,500 souls and leaving a haunting legacy of loss.

The Titanic carried a diverse array of individuals, totalling 2,224 passengers on its ill-fated
journey. From wealthy elites in first class to hopeful immigrants in steerage, the ship was a
microcosm of society, united in both luxury and peril. Among the notable passengers were
American socialite Margaret Brown and real estate investor Colonel Archibald Gracie IV, their
stories forever intertwined with the ship’s tragic fate.

In the annals of cinematic history, James Cameron’s 1997 film “Titanic” stands out as a moving
tribute to the Titanic’s lasting influence. The film, starring Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio,
expertly conveyed the grandeur of the ship, the chaos of its sinking, and the emotional love story
that emerged amidst the tragedy. The film won 11 Academy Awards, including Best Picture and
Best Director, ensuring that the Titanic’s memories would live on for future generations.

Na shamim Talla

Mwezi wa Ramadhani ni mwezi uliojaa juhudi na fadhila tele na nyingi ambazo lau zitatiliwa maanani, Ummah huu utanyanyuka kutoka daraja moja hadi nyengine. Huu ni mwezi wa Qur-aan, kwa kuwa iliteremshwa kwayo. Hivyo ni juu yetu kuisoma kwa kuzingatia na kufanyia kazi amri zilizotolewa ndani yake. Allah (Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala) Anasema: “Ramadhaan ni mwezi ambao Qur-aan imeteremshwa ili iwe uongozi kwa watu, na hoja zilizo wazi wa uongozi na upambanuzi (wa baina ya haki na batili)” (2: 185).

Uwiano baina ya masomo na mfungo

Mwezi mtukufu wa Ramadhani unatoa fursa ya pekee kwa wanafunzi kuimarisha uhusiano wao na masomo yao pamoja na imani yao. Kwa kuzingatia mikakati iliyopendekezwa, wanafunzi wanaweza kukabiliana na changamoto za masomo wakati wa Ramadhani kwa neema na uthabiti, huku wakitafuta maarifa si tu kwa mafanikio ya kitaaluma bali pia kwa maendeleo yao ya kibinafsi

Hapa kuna vidokezo vichache vya jinsi ya kufanya hivyo:

1. Panga Ratiba Yako. Anza kwa kuandaa ratiba inayojumuisha masomo, ibada, na mapumziko. Hakikisha unapata muda wa kutosha kwa kila jambo.

2.Fanya Masomo Mapema. Jitahidi kumaliza masomo yako kabla ya kuanza kufunga. Hii itakupa nafasi ya kujitolea kikamilifu katika ibada.

3. Tumia Vizuri Muda wa Iftar na Suhoor. Wakati wa kufungua na kufunga, tumia muda huu kusoma Qur’an na kufanya dua. Pia, hakikisha unakula chakula cha afya ili kuwa na nguvu wakati wa masomo.

4.Tafuta Nafasi za Kufanya Ibada.Shule au chuo chako kinaweza kuwa na sehemu za kufanyia ibada. Tumia nafasi hizi kusoma Qur’an, kufanya sala, na kufanya dhikr.

5. Usisahau Kujipumzisha. Kufunga kunaweza kuwa ngumu, haswa wakati wa masomo. Hakikisha unapata muda wa kupumzika ili kuepuka uchovu.

6. Jitahidi Kuwa na Nia Njema. Kumbuka kuwa kufunga ni ibada, na lengo lako ni kumpendeza Mwenyezi Mungu. Jitahidi kuwa na nia njema katika kila jambo unalofanya.

Kwa kufuata vidokezo hivi, utaweza kuwa na uwiano mzuri kati ya masomo na ibada wakati wa Mwezi wa

Ramadhani.

By Dennis Mungai

Gone are the days where a child would be punished by the neighbor when discovered doing something wrong. The neighbor would punish the child then go and report the matter to the child’s parent, who would then rain more punishment on the child. Statements such as mtoto analelewa na jamii would be heard almost on every occasion. One would not have to be directly related to the child to instill some discipline on them, whether by words of advice or taking drastic action such as the example given above.

Fast forward to 2024. Dare touch someone’s child in the name of “teaching them a lesson.” You would probably find yourself in the court of law charged with physical assault of a child. The child’s parents would probably cut ties with you, in the name of jealousy or envy, otherwise why would you just find their child on the street and start advising or punishing them?  “ulimguza kama nani? ” they might ask.

The situation has been made worse by the increasing rate of single mothers in the country. Many of the women with children today have opted to raise them on their own, or in other situations, the fathers have neglected their duties, leaving the women all on their own. Speaking of which, where are the men? Like generally men are nowhere to be seen in any forums; gatherings, harambees, churches, schools, in their families. They seem to be missing in almost every sector. Topic for another day.

It is not far-fetched to say we need to go back to the days of old, where a child was raised by the community. Even before that however, the basic nuclear family needs to be complete before going into the society. Single motherhood has is becoming normalized in today’s society. Glorified, even. Ladies on social media, especially the socialities or celebrities are posting on a regular basis their milestones in terms of raising their kids by themselves.

They are making it look like a fancy or cool idea, to bear the responsibility of parenthood all alone. It calls for accountability, not only on the absent or “deadbeat” dads but also the mothers as well. This social media presentation is making the younger generations even decide to avoid marriage in its entirety. One may have heard statements such as ” I’m only interested in having a kid but not getting married.” Such ideas stem from what is posted online, the debates and discussions people have on a regular basis.

These same “big names” need to be at the forefront and leading by example in their life choices. Choosing the right partner is the first step. Proper background check needs to be done. Get to actually know this person. Meeting them in a bar and getting pregnant by them after only a month isn’t “knowing” them enough. Promoting healthy relationships and responsible parenting with both parties involved is just the start to our way back to a safe, secure and prosperous nation. As they say, if you want to know the success of a society, look at how it treats its children.

By Joe Aura,

[aurajoe6@gmail.com]

A striking image has surfaced, capturing former President Donald Trump in an unexpected embrace with people of color. The photograph, generated by advanced artificial intelligence (AI), has ignited heated discussions among tech enthusiasts, political analysts, and the public at large.

The image, depicting former President Donald Trump surrounded by a diverse group of supporters, was created by Midjourney, a prominent research organization specializing in artificial intelligence. The lifelike portrayal of Trump embracing people of color has raised concerns about the potential impact of AI-generated content on political narratives and journalistic integrity. The image recently emerged and gained traction on social media platforms, prompting widespread debate and scrutiny.

Discussions surrounding the image have taken place across various online platforms, as well as among journalists, political analysts, and the general public. Critics argue that AI-generated content blurs the lines between fact and fiction, potentially influencing public opinion and political discourse. Some fear that such content could be weaponized to further specific political agendas. The incident underscores the need for robust fact-checking mechanisms and transparency in reporting to verify the authenticity of AI-generated visuals. It also highlights the challenge of distinguishing between real and manufactured images as AI technology continues to evolve.

No evidence has been found to tie fake images, including one created by a Florida radio host, to the Trump campaign, according to a BBC Panorama investigation. The latest AI-generated media showing Trump posing with Black men on a porch has sparked controversy, with captions falsely claiming that Trump stopped his motorcade for the photo-op. While some online commenters recognized the photos as fake, many others were convinced of their authenticity.

Trump supporters have embraced the image as a symbol of unity and inclusivity, citing its potential to foster positive discourse and bridge gaps between communities. However, skeptics question the authenticity of the depicted interaction, raising concerns about the manipulation of digital content for political purposes. As journalists and media outlets grapple with the implications of AI-generated visuals, it is imperative to uphold the truth and employ rigorous fact-checking measures. The incident involving Trump serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining transparency and accountability in reporting, even in the face of increasingly sophisticated AI technology.

[Photo Courtesy]

Printed materials like books, magazines, newspapers have been around for quite some time. The European Age of printing began in 1439 marking the beginning of an age of printing. The person credited for the invention that drove the printing era was German craftsman and inventor, Johannes Gutenberg. It was shortly after That women also began to emerge in the print industry.

The first female printer was Anna Rügerin. She was a typographer from the city of Augsburg in Germany. In 1484, she printed two books in the in-folio format in her own press

Albeit, Charlotte Guillard is hailed the first woman printer with a widely recognized career. She worked at the famous Soleil d’Or printing house in Paris from 1502 until her death in 1557. From 1537 onwards, after the passing of her second husband, Guillard ran her printing business on her own.

This was unusual at the time, as women were not allowed to own a business. They were, however, allowed to take over the business of their husband after their death. She grew the business significantly over the years. She had five or six printing presses and employed 25 to 30 people. Her companies account for books in more than 400 libraries throughout the world.

It’s also important to mention The women’s printing society – a British publishing house founded in either 1874 or 1876. The company played an important role in supporting the British suffragettes, both through its publication of feminist tracts and by providing employment opportunities for women in a field previously restricted to men.

In Kenya, we have our own women personalities to applaud. Pamella Makotsi – Sitton was the first woman appointed executive editor and managing editor of the Daily Nation at the Nation Media Group. Appointed in 2019, the Daily Nation is the highest circulation independent newspaper in Kenya.

The only way to challenge the gender disparity in media leadership is by creating a pipeline of women journalists with the right skills to take up senior positions. Pamella Makotsi-Sittoni

Women have always been involved in print. Here at Involvement, we bost our own team of brilliant women who are writers and newspaper editors. We hope to encourage more women to consider a career in print.

By Joe Aura

(aurajoe6@gmail.com)

February 13th marks World Radio Day, a day dedicated to celebrating radio as a powerful medium for promoting dialogue, tolerance, and peace. In many parts of the world, community radio stations have emerged as essential platforms for fostering social cohesion and conflict resolution. This article explores the significant role of community radio in building peace, with a focus on a Kenyan case study, as highlighted in a recent article by The Conversation.
Community radio serves as a localized broadcasting platform operated by and for a particular community. It typically caters to the specific interests and needs of its audience, often addressing topics that are overlooked by mainstream media. Examples include Radio Nam Lolwe in Kenya, which serves the Luo community, Mang’elete Radio in Makueni, Radio Maendeleo in Rarienda, Koch FM in Korogocho, Pamoja FM in Kibera, and Ghetto FM in Pumwani
In Kenya, community radio stations have played a crucial role in addressing social, political, and ethnic tensions, particularly in regions prone to conflict. For example, during the 2007/2008 post-election violence, stations like Koch FM in Kibera provided vital information and messages of peace to their listeners, helping to calm tensions and prevent further violence.
The Kenyan experience provides valuable insights into how grassroots media can contribute to peace building efforts within diverse and often divided societies. One of the key strengths of community radio lies in its ability to amplify marginalized voices and provide a platform for communities to articulate their grievances, aspirations, and perspectives. In Kenya, where deep-seated ethnic divisions have often fueled violence, community radio stations have helped bridge these divides by promoting inclusive dialogue and understanding.
Moreover, community radio stations in Kenya have actively engaged in conflict-sensitive reporting, promoting messages of peace, reconciliation, and mutual respect. By providing accurate and impartial information, these stations have countered the spread of rumors and misinformation that can exacerbate tensions during times of crisis.
Another significant contribution of community radio to peace building in Kenya is its role in promoting civic education and participation. Through programs focused on topics such as human rights, democracy, and conflict resolution, these stations empower citizens to become active agents of change within their communities. For example, Baraka FM in Mombasa runs programs educating listeners on their rights and responsibilities as citizens, fostering a culture of civic engagement and accountability.
Furthermore, community radio stations have been instrumental in facilitating intercommunity dialogue and reconciliation initiatives. By bringing together representatives from different ethnic groups, religious communities, and civil society organizations, these platforms provide opportunities for constructive engagement and the building of social networks based on trust and cooperation.
The success of community radio in promoting peace in Kenya highlights the importance of investing in grassroots media as part of broader peacebuilding efforts. However, despite their significant impact, community radio stations often face numerous challenges, including limited funding, regulatory constraints, and security threats. Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts from governments, donors, and civil society to support the sustainability and independence of community media initiatives.

By Joe Aura,

{aurajoe6@gmail.com}

Imagine a world where giving spreads like wildfire and a simple smile sets off a chain reaction of good deeds. This is more than a utopian fantasy; it is the essence of infectious generosity, a global movement.

At the centre of this transformation is TED, a platform that promotes “ideas worth spreading.” By making their work freely available online, TED democratized knowledge and created a worldwide wave of generosity. However, it did not end there. The TEDx project turned viewers into active participants, sharing stories of compassion across countries and cultures.

The beauty of infectious generosity lies in its simplicity. Every act of kindness, no matter how small, has the power to ripple outwards. A friendly hello to a stranger, a helping hand to a neighbor, a donation to a worthy cause – each one becomes a pebble dropped into a pond, sending out ever-widening circles of positive change.

Further steps in the journey toward infectious generosity include embracing creativity. Individuals can broaden their effect by thinking outside the box and demonstrating generosity in ways that are meaningful to them, such as making cookies for classmates or organizing neighborhood clean-up projects.

Another important component is the desire to be brave, which pushes people not to allow fear keep them from conducting acts of kindness. Anderson thinks that stepping outside of one’s comfort zone frequently results in the most meaningful acts of compassion, which require a leap of faith. Finally, the need of connecting with others is underlined. Individuals are urged to know that they are not alone in their transformative path. Collective actions with like-minded individuals and groups devoted to promoting compassion can multiply impact, resulting in a ripple effect that reverberates internationally, fostering a more compassionate and connected society.

Think of movements like the Kindness Pandemic, where small acts of compassion became hope during a difficult time. Alternatively, consider Mr. Beast, a YouTuber who utilizes his platform to encourage millions to give back. Furthermore, who can forget giving Tuesday, a global day of giving that highlights the power of communal generosity?

The possibilities for positive transformation are endless. So what are you waiting for? Unleash your inner kindness warrior! Begin small, share your story, and help make the world a more caring and connected place. Remember that any act of generosity, no matter how tiny, has the potential to transform the world, one positive ripple at a time.

Sharing such knowledge was one of many ways to offer generously. How will you offer generously today? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments box below, and let us work together to make the world a better place, one act of generosity at a time!

By Joe Aura

Christmas season evokes memories of festive movies like ‘Home Alone’ and ‘The Grinch’, enchanting us with laughter, tears, and moments of sheer wonder. As snowflakes dance and fires crackle, these films beckon us into a world teeming with the enduring magic of Christmas.

An Animated Wonderland

Animation, the realm of boundless imagination, has long intertwined with the festive spirit, painting breathtaking winter landscapes in pristine white or adorning houses with spectacular, twinkling lights. This holiday, immerse yourself in a collection of the top ten animated Christmas films curated from visionary directors like Henry Selick, Satoshi Kon, and Sergio Pablos.

1. Tokyo Godfathers (Satoshi Kon, 2003)Satoshi Kon’s masterpiece, Tokyo Godfathers, unfolds as a captivating drama set on Tokyo’s streets on Christmas Eve. Three homeless souls discover an abandoned newborn and embark on a quest to reunite the infant with its parents. With a rich tapestry of characters, this film defies convention, becoming an instant holiday classic.
2. Klaus (Sergio Pablos, Carlos Martínez López, 2019)Klaus, a heartwarming gem from Sergio Pablos and Carlos Martínez López, weaves a charming narrative about a postman and a toymaker, rekindling the spirit of Christmas. Nominated for an Academy Award, it’s an enchanting journey through generosity and warmth.
3. The Nightmare Before Christmas (Henry Selick, 1994)Is it a Halloween or Christmas film? Delve into Tim Burton’s eerie yet captivating stop-motion classic, traversing the worlds of Halloween frights and Christmas delights. Its bewitching musical numbers make it a cultural phenomenon, appealing to the creative at heart.
4. Arthur Christmas (Sarah Smith, 2011)Aardman Animations’ hidden gem, Arthur Christmas, blends uproarious comedy with heartwarming drama, narrating the tale of Santa’s son and his aspirations to embrace the family legacy. With an exceptional voice cast, it’s a vibrant celebration of joy and wonder.
5. How The Grinch Stole Christmas (Chuck Jones, Ben Washam, 1966)Originating from Dr. Seuss’ vivid imagination, this adaptation encapsulates the essence of the Grinch’s whimsical quest to steal Christmas. Chuck Jones and Ben Washam craft a timeless rendition, etching the term ‘Grinch’ into our holiday lexicon.

Honorable Mentions: Unmissable Gems

• A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)– A timeless TV special capturing the true essence of the season, cherished for decades.
• The Polar Express (2004)– Taking viewers on a magical train ride to the North Pole, blending creativity with visual splendor.
• “The Grinch” (2018)– A modern retelling adding fresh charm and a contemporary soundtrack to this timeless tale.

These animations, each a vibrant mosaic of creativity, remind us of the essence of Christmas—sharing joy, warmth, and wonder with loved ones. As the curtains draw on this cinematic yuletide feast, let these animated masterpieces kindle your holiday spirit and make this season truly magical.

What’s your go-to Christmas animation? Share your favourites and spread the festive cheer!