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Category: News

  • PROF. LABAN AYIRO LAUNCHES NEW BOOK ON EDUCATIONAL RESEARCH.

    By Tracy kavai, nyaberakavai@gmail.com

    The Vice-Chancellor of Daystar University Prof. Laban Ayiro has unveiled yet another book titled – Educational Research Methods: A Functional Approach.

    The book was launched at a colorful ceremony at Sarova Panafric Hotel graced by Chairman of Bidco Africa, Vimal Shah, who lauded Prof. Laban Ayiro’s contribution to Kenya’s academia and urged universities to work together for betterment of education and students.

    Other guests who attended event include former Makueni Governor Prof. Kibutha Kibwana who is now a professor of law at Daystar University, Daystar University founder Doctor Donald Smith, Chairman of Chiromo Hospital Group Professor Frank Njenga and Literary Communications Professor Egara Kabaji, among others.

    The launch marks a significant milestone in the advancement of educational research in Kenya. According to professor Ayiro, the book is not merely a collection of research methodologies; it serves as a clarion call for educational reform, urging collaboration among educators and institutions.

    As articulated by Prof. Ayiro, the intended impact of this work transcends individual readers, emphasizing the importance of uplifting the education system for future generations. “I believe that the intended impact of this book extends beyond individual readers. It is a clarion call for educational reformation, encouraging collaboration, fostering networks of support among educators and ultimately enabling us to uplift our education systems for future generations.”

    Vimal Shah, the chairman of Bidco Africa, underscored the importance of adapting to changing circumstance. “If we do not reinvent ourselves every single day, we will be left behind and so research methods are changing and even the way we do business is changing. There is need for collaboration amongst universities because if we come together, we can solve a lot of our problems.” This sentiment echoes the call for modernizing curricula and developing strategies that align with global educational standards.

    Prof. Kivutha Kibwana emphasized the necessity of convincing stakeholders of the benefits of research, even within the public sector, stating that it can ‘ameliorate some of the issues which undermine our ability to do better.”We need to be persuaded that research is not harmful even when it comes or meets with the public sector and it can only help to ameliorate some of the issues which undermine our ability to do better.”

    Prof. Frank Njenga’s remarks that investments in youth yield higher returns than those in infrastructure reveal a paradigm shift towards recognizing human capital as a priority, “if Kenya had only 100 shillings to invest, and the choices we had was between roads, electricity, dams, infrastructure and so on, the returns you would get by investing in young people, far outstrip investment in anything else.”

    By promoting collaboration among universities, Prof. Ayiro’s book advocates for a redefined approach to educational research, one that is both impactful and responsive to societal needs

    On his part Professor Kabaji who was the chairman of the Book Launch Committee noted, “It is important as we launch this book to reflect on our education system, to rethink our education system and to reposition research in our universities and carry out research this going to be impactful to the society.” This call to action resonates with the current landscape, where research often lacks direct applicability to real-world challenges. Prof. Ayiro’s book addresses this gap by presenting a functional approach to educational methodologies that can effectively inform practice.

    As universities strive to remain relevant, incorporating research that addresses pressing societal issues will not only enhance academic credibility but also improve the overall educational experience for students.

    The launch of ‘Educational Research Methods: A Functional Approach’ by Prof. Laban Ayiro represents more than just a new publication; it signifies a pivotal moment for educational reform in Kenya.

    By advocating for collaboration among educational institutions and focusing on research’s societal impact, the book sets the stage for transformative practices in academia. As stakeholders in education continue to embrace these ideals, the future of Kenya’s educational landscape promises to be more adaptive and responsive to both local and global challenges.

     

     

     

  • TRAVEL BAN IMPOSED ON SENATORS AHEAD OF GACHAGUA IMPEACHMENT VERDICT.

    BY TRACY KAVAI

    All Kenyan Senators and Senate staff have been temporarily barred from traveling abroad until October 19, 2024, as the Senate prepares to decide on Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment.

    Senate Speaker Amason Kingi issued the directive on October 8, suspending all Senate committee activities outside Nairobi to ensure full participation in the impeachment proceedings.

    Kingi emphasized the importance of maintaining focus during this critical time, stating, “All travel outside the country by Senators and Senate staff is hereby on hold to ensure participation without distractions.”

    The Senate will deliberate on the case on October 16 and 17 after receiving communication from the National Assembly recommending Gachagua’s removal. The Deputy President and the motion’s mover must file their responses by October 14.

     

     

     

     

  • GOVERNMENT EXTENDS MEDICAL COVER FOR CIVIL SERVANTS AFTER STRIKE THREAT.

    BY TRACY KAVAI, nyaberakavai@gmail.com

    The government, through the Ministry of Public Service and Human Capital Development, has extended the medical insurance cover for civil servants until November 21, 2024.

    Public Service Principal Secretary (PS) Amos Gathecha confirmed that the extension of the Comprehensive Medical Insurance Scheme (CMIS) will ensure “seamless transition and effective service delivery” for beneficiaries. The medical cover, which initially expired in June 2024 and was later extended to September, is now under the Social Health Authority (SHA), replacing the defunct National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).

    In a notice issued on Tuesday, PS Gathecha revealed that “the contract was executed for a period of one year with effect from 1st July 2023 to 30th June 2024 and was extended for three months up to 30th September 2024.” With the recent extension, civil servants, including employees of both national and county governments as well as staff of the National Youth Service (NYS), will continue to access medical services. Gathecha clarified that “the State Department for Public Service, in consultation with the Social Health Authority (SHA), has agreed to extend the contract up to 21st November 2024.”

    However, this temporary measure follows significant unrest among civil servant unions, which issued a 14-day strike notice over concerns about healthcare coverage. The unions criticized the SHA rollout, claiming that it left out key benefits, resulted in higher deductions, and led to job losses. In a joint statement, they declared: “We call upon the National and County governments to urgently address these issues and ensure that civil servants are not left without proper healthcare coverage.”

    While the extension provides temporary relief, the unions maintain that their demands are yet to be fully addressed. “Our members cannot continue to face increased deductions for diminished healthcare services,” they stated. With the strike threat still looming, the unions insist that the government’s response does not resolve the underlying issues.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • KENYAN GOVERNMENT ALLOCATES KSH.100 MILLION FOR EVACUATION OF CITIZENS IN MIDDLE EAST

    BY TRACY KAVAI, nyaberakavai@gmail.com

    The Kenyan government has set aside Ksh.100 million to assist in the evacuation of citizens currently residing in the Middle East, where escalating tensions are posing a growing risk.

    Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi addressed the Senate on Wednesday, confirming that the government is committed to ensuring that no Kenyan is left stranded amid the ongoing insecurity between Israel and Lebanon. He emphasized the urgency of the matter, stating that “the government is keen to act” to help those in need.

    With approximately 26,000 Kenyans living in the region, the Kenyan embassy in Kuwait has already registered around 1,500 citizens who require evacuation assistance.

    Mudavadi reassured Senators that the government is closely monitoring the situation and stands ready to respond to any further developments. “After the government reached out to the Kenyans in Lebanon, a number of them said they were comfortable there and would reach out to the government when the situation was unbearable,” Mudavadi informed the Senate.

    The government’s strategy to assist citizens during humanitarian crises is at an advanced stage, but Mudavadi acknowledged that financial constraints are hindering smooth operations. Nevertheless, he stressed that the government’s priority remains the welfare of its citizens. “We are working every day to ensure that we handle individual cases in the best humanitarian way we can,” Mudavadi added, while also noting that some Kenyans prefer to remain in the region in the hope that the situation will stabilize.

    Mudavadi highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen Kenya’s diplomatic missions worldwide. “Our Kenyan embassies and missions remain steadfast in promoting, projecting, and protecting Kenya’s image and national interests,” he said, adding that the government is committed to ensuring that all Kenyans abroad are supported.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • RUTO APPOINTS MUNYORI BUKU AS NEW HEAD OF PRESIDENTIAL COMMUNICATION SERVICE.

    BY LEEROY WUONE

    President William Ruto has appointed veteran journalist Munyori Buku as the new Head of the Presidential Communication Service.

    This announcement was made by State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed on Wednesday. Buku, who has been serving as Secretary for Public Communication at State House, will take over his new role immediately, following the exit of David Mugonyi, who was appointed Director General of the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) last year.

    Buku is no stranger to the world of public communication. He has over 26 years of experience working in senior roles within both the public and private sectors. Before his promotion, he had served as Senior Director of Public Communication at State House and as Director of Communication in the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and Ministry of Finance.

    Additionally, he worked as an Editorial Manager at the Kenya Yearbook Editorial Board. His extensive experience includes media roles at major outlets such as the Standard Group, where he served as Managing Editor, and at Nation Media Group, where he was a Sub-Editor.

    Buku holds a Bachelor of Education (Arts) degree from Kenyatta University and a postgraduate diploma in Mass Communication from the University of Nairobi. His journey in communication began in journalism after initially starting as a teacher in various high schools across the country. Over time, Buku rose through the ranks to become a respected figure in both the media and government communication sectors.

    State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed lauded Buku’s appointment, stating: “Munyori Buku brings a wealth of experience and strategic insight into public communication. His leadership will enhance the delivery of the President’s communication agenda.” The appointment underscores President Ruto’s commitment to strengthening communication within the Presidency as part of his broader governance strategy.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • KUCO DEMANDS PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN SOCIAL HEALTH AUTHORITY ROLLOUT.

    BY TRACY KAVAI, nyaberakavai@gmail.com

    The Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) is calling on the Ministry of Health to conduct proper public participation in the rollout of the Social Health Authority (SHA) scheme.

    Speaking in Nairobi during a peaceful demonstration, KUCO Chairman Peterson Wachira criticized the current state of the SHA scheme, stating that the health benefits package offered under the new system falls far short of expectations. “The package does not match expectations arising from the amount that Kenyans are expected to contribute monthly,” said Wachira, who expressed disappointment over the current structure.

    The SHA rollout has been met with growing criticism from health workers and the general public. KUCO’s primary concern is that Kenyans are contributing significant sums of money toward the scheme but are not guaranteed quality medical services in return. Wachira pointed out that “most hospitals don’t know how to identify patients seeking medication under the SHA,” which raises concerns about the effective implementation of the scheme.

    Adding to the frustration, KUCO members criticized SHA for excluding health facilities accredited by the Clinical Officers Council from participating in the new system. “The SHA has locked out facilities that are crucial in offering healthcare services,” Wachira noted, calling the exclusion unacceptable.

    The union is now urging the government to halt the implementation of the SHA until comprehensive public participation forums are held. “We demand that the government immediately hold public forums on the viability of the SHA before it proceeds,” stated Wachira. Furthermore, KUCO is also pushing for comprehensive medical insurance for all clinical officers and their interns, calling the current situation untenable for both healthcare providers and patients.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • HIGH COURT MERGES OVER 20 PETITIONS AIMING TO HALT GACHAGUA’S IMPEACHMENT.

    BY LEEROY WUONE.

    The High Court has consolidated more than 20 petitions filed across the country seeking to stop the impeachment process against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

    Justice Lawrence Mugambi, who is overseeing the case, announced that a ruling on whether to forward the matter to Chief Justice Martha Koome will be made on October 11, 2024. The petitioners are requesting the empanelment of a bench of three to seven judges to hear the case due to its constitutional importance.

    During the court proceedings, Gachagua’s defence team, led by Senior Counsel Paul Muite and Elisha Ongoya, argued that the matter warrants urgent attention. They urged Justice Mugambi to recognize the “self-evident urgency” of the case and to refer it to the Chief Justice for the constitution of a multi-judge bench. The defence emphasized the constitutional nature of the case, stating that it “falls under a presidential system of governance” and that “the sovereignty of the people in the process is key.”

    The defence also raised concerns about the public participation process, arguing that it was inadequate and that there is no substantive legislation governing the procedure. According to them, the parliament’s involvement in the impeachment should be closely scrutinized. “The narrative that the Deputy President is elected by the people lacks merit,” argued the respondents’ legal team, led by counsels Paul Nyamodi and Peter Wanyama, who further stated that a single judge could adequately handle the case.

    Despite the defences’ call for a larger bench, the respondents urged the court to reject the petitioners’ request for a multi-judge panel. Justice Mugambi will now decide whether the case should be referred to Chief Justice Martha Koome for further judicial intervention.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • DEPUTY PRESIDENT RIGATHI GACHAGUA IMPEACHED BY THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY.

    BY TRACY KAVAI, nyaberakavai@gmail.com

    Nairobi, October 8,2024- In a historic turn of events, Kenya’s Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was impeached by the National Assembly on October 8, 2024, marking the first such impeachment under the 2010 Constitution.

    The motion, which garnered overwhelming support, saw 281 members of Parliament vote in favor of his removal, a number far exceeding the required 233 threshold, while 44 MPs opposed the decision.

    Gachagua was charged with 11 offenses, including corruption, gross misconduct, and violation of the Constitution. The charges also extended to accusations of undermining the office of the President. These allegations were backed by a public participation exercise that had over 116,000 respondents supporting his impeachment, compared to just over 69,000 who opposed it.

    Kibwezi MP Mutuse Mwengi, who spearheaded the motion, delivered a damning breakdown of all 11 charges. His emotional closing remarks appealed to fellow legislators, urging them to act in the interest of justice. While Mutuse’s motion received substantial support, Gachagua was defended by notable allies, including Kirinyaga Woman Representative Jane Njeri Maina and Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba.

    Appearing before Parliament at 5:17 p.m., Gachagua defended himself against the charges. He refuted claims regarding the ownership of properties such as Olive Gardens Hotel and Vipingo Beach Resort, asserting that they belonged to his late brother, former Nyeri Governor Nderitu Gachagua. “Like any other Kenyan, the constitution gives me the presumption of innocence in relation to criminal offences until proven otherwise in a court of law,” Gachagua emphasized during his defense.

    On the day preceding the vote, Gachagua addressed the nation in a televised press conference, focusing on the KSh 5.2 billion he was accused of amassing. He explained that a significant portion of the assets were inherited from his late brother, for whom he served as the executor of the will. “Today, as I defend myself, I apologize to my late brother for having to share his private will. The properties he worked so tirelessly for… are now being labelled as proceeds of corruption,” he lamented.

    The National Assembly Speaker is set to notify the Senate within two days. The Senate will then have 10 days to either confirm or overturn the impeachment, determining Gachagua’s political fate.

     

     

     

  • THE GLITTERING DMUN’S 1ST MOCK DEBATE

    By Leeroy Wuone

    The Daystar Model United Nations Chapter performed exemplarily well scooping various categorical awards in the 1st mock debate of the 24th Kenya Model United Nations Session held at USIU Africa on Saturday 21 September 2024.

    DMUN chapter members have had their weekly online simulations since May in preparation for first mock debate through their local chapter President of the General Assembly (PGA) Ms Amanda Ingala. The International Court of Justice wing also never shied away from the limelight, headed by their decisive President Mr Caleb Mutie. Best memorial ICJ award was won by the ICJ Local Chapter president and their Chair Mr Godwin Ogutu, who took part and won two awards by the end of that same evening.

    Ms Amanda Ingala got an honorary mention for Best Local Chapter President of the General Assembly after guiding a successful team of delegates from various committees six of the General Assembly. Awards won under ICJ were;

     

    Finalists in the moot competition-Team AA12, Best Applicant Memorial-team AA20.The best female oralist was won by Ms Yvon Kendi while the best Upcoming mooter was clinched by Mr Nigel Agayi. International  Law Commission awards were all won by Mr Godwin Ogutu first, as the second best commissioner and second award as  Best Draft Article.

     

    Various committee awards of the General Assembly were also up for grabs. Ms Kimberly Etale won a Special mention In the Crisis Committee as the Delegate of Ghana. Ms Sandra Adhieu, the delegate of Peru also got a special mention from the World Health Organization (WHO) committee while Mr Leeroy Wuone, the Delegate of Croatia got Special mention from the (SOCHUM) committee.

    The Social, Humanitarian and Cultural committee (SOCHUM) deals with the promotion of Human rights and basic freedoms of people around the world.

    Ms Consolata Gichuru emerged as most diplomatic delegate when she represented Netherlands from the WHO committee. Ms Gichuru has been known before by colleagues from GA for her immense oratory skills in previous debates and her resilience to accurately express her points during debate sessions. Finally the best position paper award went to Ms Jeanelle Njoki of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) committee.

     

  • DAYSTAR UNIVERSITY TRIUMPHS IN 2024 UNWANTED WITNESS PRIVACY MOOT COURT COMPETITION.

    BY TRACY KAVAI.

    @nyaberakavai@gmail.com

    Nairobi, September 20, 2024 – In a fierce legal battle that showcased the sharpest minds from Kenya and Uganda, Daystar University’s law school clinched victory at the prestigious 2024 Unwanted Witness Privacy Moot Court Competition.

    With a dazzling performance, the team earned a custom-made trophy, a $1,000 cash prize, and an all-expenses-paid trip to the 6th Privacy Symposium Africa in Harare, Zimbabwe, this November.

    The competition, which this year focused on the critical theme “Safeguarding Electoral Integrity: Upholding Voter Privacy in Democratic Processes,” brought together top law students who debated the pressing challenges of privacy, data protection, and the rise of biometric technology in African elections. With digital electoral systems becoming more common across the continent, the need to protect voters’ personal data was a key issue at the heart of this year’s discussions.

    In a grand event, presided over by Lady Justice Lydia Achode, Lordship Weldon Korir, and Judge John Matibo, the participants’ professionalism and depth of knowledge were widely praised. The distinguished judges commended the competitors for their composure and compelling legal arguments, underscoring the importance of future legal experts engaging with global privacy issues.

    Several universities were honored for their remarkable contributions at the 2024 Unwanted Witness Privacy Moot Court Competition. King sleeve University (UG-02) won the award for Best Written Submission (Applicant), showcasing strong legal research and argumentation. Catholic University of Kenya (KEN-17) was recognized with the Best Written Submission (Respondent) award, reflecting their insightful defense. The title of Best Oralist went to Stacy Angel Ndaula (UG-16) from Uganda, a recognition of her eloquence and exceptional grasp of complex legal concepts, which impressed both the judges and the audience.

    Amid the accolades and celebrations, Professor Laban Ayiro, Vice Chancellor of Daystar University, delivered an impassioned speech. He reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to nurturing a new generation of lawyers who will be distinct in their mastery of the law and its societal implications. In a bold announcement, Professor Ayiro revealed plans for the construction of one of the largest law school facilities in Kenya. Citing Robert Frost’s poem “The Secret Sits”, he challenged law students to stop dancing on the periphery and dive into the heart of the law, urging them to engage fully with the intricacies of legal practice.

    The Dean of Daystar’s School of Law also highlighted the transformative power of mooting, encouraging students to see it as essential training for becoming better legal professionals and judges.

    As Daystar University (KEN-13) prepares for their trip to the Privacy Symposium Africa, the victory stands as a milestone, not just for the institution, but for the role of legal education in addressing the continent’s most pressing privacy concerns.