Blog

By Malia Anam

Have you heard that the KICD wants to make changes in schools? Not just any changes, but changes that involve removing set books in high schools. I don’t think this is a correct move because removing set books from the curriculum affects a lot of people, including students. Have you thought about students’ ability to analyze situations or even learn new vocabulary? Many set books also address critical issues in our country, like politics, FGM, and so many other topics.

Removing these books can limit students’ opportunities to develop critical thinking skills. Set books are essential for exposing students to complex themes, challenging narratives, and diverse perspectives. Eliminating them would reduce students’ exposure to cultural and historical contexts, leaving them less equipped to understand and relate to past events. It would also diminish their readiness for college and careers. Many colleges value a strong foundation in literature, and these books introduce students to various literary forms and writing styles.

Without set books, students will miss out on important discussions and opportunities to reflect on human nature and societal values. Studying set books helps students learn advanced language structures and literary devices, which may be less emphasized in alternative materials. Removing them could negatively impact students’ language development and their ability to express complex ideas.

The effects of removing set books go beyond just students. Have you thought about what will happen to literature teachers? Some may lose their jobs, especially if literature is their main subject. It would also increase teachers’ workload, as they would have to find new materials and develop new lesson plans, which could vary widely in quality.

There’s also the impact on the writers of these books. Removing set books from the educational list would reduce demand, affecting writers’ income. Writers’ contributions to literature and culture may fade, diminishing their legacy over time. There would be fewer opportunities for readers to study and discuss an author’s work deeply. By discouraging the study of these texts, we may also discourage writers from tackling important social issues.

Removing set books impacts not only writers’ financial stability but also their cultural significance and the role they play in shaping thought and literature. Removing them would strip students of valuable perspectives and diminish our literary heritage. For all these reasons, I strongly believe the KICD should preserve set books in our schools.

By Joe Aura, Aurajoe6@gmail.com

Recent investigations by BBC Africa Eye have unveiled the disturbing and ongoing abuse of elderly individuals in Kenya, highlighting systemic issues affecting this vulnerable demographic. While Africa is often associated with its youthful population, the elderly remain among the most marginalized and mistreated in society. The investigative reports offer an eye-opening glimpse into the harrowing reality that older adults face in Kenya. These reflections are not only important but urgent in the fight for their rights and protection.

One report, centred on the rising tide of witchcraft accusations, particularly in Kenya’s coastal regions, highlighted how vulnerable the elderly are in rural areas. In Kilifi, accusations of witchcraft often become a tool for personal gain, including disputes over land ownership. The tragic story of seventy-four-year-old Tambala Jefwa, who was attacked twice by his relatives under the guise of witchcraft accusations, stands as a powerful testament to the abuse. These accusations are not typically grounded in traditional beliefs but are driven by greed and power struggles within families. For Jefwa, his torment was rooted in an inheritance conflict, a reality that many elderly people across the country face. This case is not an isolated one, many elderly individuals live in constant fear of being ostracized, assaulted, or even killed under the guise of witchcraft.

The second report, which uncovered abuse and neglect in Nairobi’s care homes, brings another dimension to the issue of elder abuse. Undercover footage from the Presbyterian Church of East Africa Thogoto Care Home showed staff members abusing residents, neglecting their medical needs, and maintaining unsanitary conditions. These shocking findings revealed a deep failure in Kenya’s elder care system. It is appalling that the very institutions meant to care for our elderly are instead perpetrating harm against them. The lack of proper regulations and oversight in care homes allows this mistreatment to persist, as there is often no one to advocate for the residents, many of whom lack family support.

Both reports reflect a broader, systemic failure to protect the elderly in Kenya, and indeed, across much of the continent. The absence of strong legal frameworks, community protections, and societal respect for the elderly means that many older adults are left to suffer in silence. In rural areas, the elderly are vulnerable to abuse under the guise of cultural or traditional beliefs, and in urban settings, they face neglect in care homes meant to provide refuge in their twilight years.

As I reflect on these two investigations, it becomes clear that much needs to be done to address these pressing issues. On the legal front, Kenya needs to implement stronger elder protection laws and ensure they are rigorously enforced. This includes cracking down on witchcraft accusations and introducing harsher penalties for those who exploit the elderly for personal gain. In the realm of elder care facilities, it is imperative that comprehensive reforms are made. Care homes must be subjected to regular inspections, and those found to be in violation of the basic human rights of elderly residents should face serious consequences.

More importantly, these issues highlight a need for a cultural shift in the way society views aging. In many African cultures, aging is often associated with weakness, irrelevance, or even a burden to younger generations. This perspective needs to change, and a new narrative must be built around valuing the wisdom and contributions of the elderly. A society that neglects its elders is a society that has lost its moral compass.

In response to the abuse highlighted in these investigations, it is crucial that communities take collective responsibility. Families and caregivers must be educated on the importance of elder care, not just as a familial duty but as a fundamental part of human dignity. Beyond that, there needs to be greater public awareness of elder abuse and neglect. This means calling out and addressing these injustices wherever they occur.

As I consider the gravity of these reports and the stories they tell, I am reminded of the importance of fighting for the rights of the elderly. This issue cannot be swept under the rug any longer. The time for action is now. Through both legal reform and a cultural shift in how we view the elderly, Kenya and Africa at large can begin to address these systemic issues and offer the respect, care, and protection that the elderly deserve. This is not just a matter of social justice but a reflection of our shared humanity.

By Joe Aura, aurajoe6@gmail.com

Decolonization remains a powerful and unfinished story, woven with struggles for independence, identity, and self-determination. From the historic European colonization of Africa to the ongoing political and cultural battles that continue today, the road to freedom has been long and challenging. But the story of decolonization is not just one of political shifts, it is also a tale of cultural reclamation. Art has emerged as a vital tool in this process, helping communities around the world challenge colonial legacies, reclaim their identities, and create more inclusive futures.

Across the globe, art has proven to be an essential form of resistance. From the post-colonial artistic movements in Africa to Indigenous art in the Americas and Oceania, creative expression has been instrumental in the decolonization process. It serves not only as a reflection of cultural pride but also as a platform for marginalized voices to challenge historical injustices and imagine new futures. Art is not just about painting or sculpture, it is about reclaiming control over narratives, about resisting the imposed cultural dominance of colonial powers.

The Global Fight for Independence

European powers carved up Africa at the Berlin Conference of 1884-85, leading to the economic exploitation and political domination of African nations. The impact of colonization was felt deeply across the continent, where systems of governance, cultural practices, and education were all shaped to serve colonial interests. The struggle for independence was long and hard-fought, with key figures like Ghana’s Kwame Nkrumah leading the charge against imperial powers.

Nkrumah’s leadership, especially as Ghana became the first African nation to gain independence in 1957, was pivotal. His vision for an African renaissance tied independence not just to political autonomy but also to cultural restoration. Nkrumah’s Ghana was seen as a beacon of hope for African liberation, inspiring other nations to follow suit. The struggle for self-determination was not just political, it was also cultural, as African countries sought to reclaim their cultural heritage from centuries of colonial erasure.

In many ways, the decolonization of Africa was a direct response to these historical wrongs, fuelled by a desire for freedom and cultural autonomy. Yet, the remnants of colonialism still affect these nations today. Many territories remain in the form of non-self-governing territories (NSGTs), and Africa continues to fight for more equitable representation on the world stage, particularly within the United Nations Security Council.

Art as a Vehicle for Resistance and Identity

Art has always been an essential form of resistance. It has allowed societies to express dissatisfaction with colonial rule, preserve traditional practices, and even challenge the very foundations of colonialism. In Africa, the role of art in decolonization has been significant, from the visual arts to music, literature, and performance. These forms of expression became crucial in the reclamation of African identity.

For example, Nigerian writer Chinua Achebe’s novel Things Fall Apart (1958) critiqued colonial rule and its devastating impact on traditional Igbo society. Achebe’s work was more than just a story; it was a resistance to the colonial narrative that had often depicted Africans as “savages” in need of Western civilization. By writing from an African perspective, Achebe redefined how the world viewed Africa and its people.

Similarly, South African musicians like Miriam Makeba and Hugh Masekela used their music as a tool for protest during the apartheid era. Their songs expressed resistance to colonial oppression and later to apartheid, using music as a means to tell stories of hardship, pride, and resilience. Art provided a platform to demand political freedom, but it also created a space for communities to assert their cultural autonomy.

One of the most notable examples of art as a vehicle for cultural restoration is the Sankofa movement, which advocates for the return to African roots. This concept, embodied in various forms of African art, literature, and performance, encourages a revisiting of African history and traditions to help build a better future. Artists in Ghana and beyond have embraced Sankofa as a way to preserve African heritage, restore cultural practices that were suppressed under colonial rule, and assert the importance of African identity in the global context.

Decolonization in the Modern World: Art and Education

Today, the fight for decolonization continues, not just in political arenas but also in cultural spaces. Education plays a key role in this ongoing struggle. Schools and universities in Africa and the Caribbean are beginning to incorporate decolonial curricula that explore colonial history and its modern repercussions. Students are not just learning about their history but are also engaging with how colonial legacies continue to shape their present lives.

In countries like Kenya, universities have started to promote art as a form of resistance, with cultural hubs such as the Nairobi National Museum and the Go Down Arts Centre offering spaces for young artists to explore themes of decolonization. These institutions are not only preserving cultural heritage but also engaging in public dialogues about identity, power, and resistance. For example, contemporary Kenyan artists use mixed media to critique both the historical and ongoing impact of colonialism, drawing attention to issues such as land ownership, social inequality, and identity.

In the Caribbean, art has similarly played a vital role in decolonization efforts. The work of Jamaican-born artist and writer Edward Kamau Brathwaite, for example, has emphasized the power of language and cultural expression in the post-colonial world. His concept of nation language, which refers to the use of African-influenced dialects, challenges the dominance of colonial languages and highlights the significance of local traditions in shaping modern identities.

The Global Push for Decolonization

While many African nations have gained independence, the decolonization movement is far from over. The fact that 17 territories remain non-self-governing and subject to the control of colonial powers highlights the continued struggle for true sovereignty. This issue is especially poignant in places like Western Sahara, which is still under dispute between Morocco and the indigenous Sahrawi people. The call for decolonization extends beyond Africa; in the Pacific, Indigenous groups are similarly calling for self-determination and cultural restoration.

Art continues to play a pivotal role in these struggles for independence. Indigenous art forms in regions like the Pacific Islands and Australia, for example, have become tools for reclaiming land, language, and cultural practices that were systematically erased by colonization. Artists from these communities are now using their work to tell their stories, preserve their heritage, and resist colonial control over their cultural expression.

Art as a Catalyst for Change

Decolonization is more than just a political movement, it is a cultural one. Art, in all its forms, plays a crucial role in reclaiming lost identities, challenging colonial narratives, and imagining a future built on equality and justice. Whether in Africa, the Caribbean, or the Pacific, artists are at the forefront of this movement, using their creativity to assert cultural pride, critique historical wrongs, and pave the way for a more inclusive world.

Through the lens of art, the decolonization process continues to unfold, offering new opportunities for intercultural dialogue, resistance, and healing. As this global movement progresses, it is clear that art is not merely a reflection of the past but a tool for shaping the future, one that values diversity, celebrates cultural heritage, and advocates for justice and self-determination on the global stage.

Transforming Lives Through Food for Education

By Joe Aura, JoeAura6@mail.com

In a world where millions of children still face hunger and malnutrition, one woman is making a significant impact in the fight against this silent crisis. Wawira Njiru, a Kenyan social entrepreneur, is at the forefront of efforts to combat child malnutrition in Kenya through her pioneering initiative, Food for Education. Her work is helping not only to address hunger but also to improve educational outcomes, creating a blueprint for a future where no child has to suffer from a lack of essential nutrients.

The Crisis of Child Malnutrition in Africa

Despite global efforts to combat hunger, millions of children, particularly in Africa, continue to miss out on the nutrients necessary for growth and development. According to a report by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, over 400 million children worldwide are affected by malnutrition, leading to stunted growth, impaired cognitive abilities, and long-term health challenges. In Kenya, the statistics are alarming: one in four children under the age of five suffers from stunting, especially in rural areas where access to nutritious food is scarce.

This widespread malnutrition undermines not only the health of children but also their potential. Malnutrition limits their ability to learn, participate in school activities, and break the cycle of poverty. The urgent need for effective, sustainable solutions to combat child hunger and malnutrition has never been clearer.

Wawira Njiru’s Vision: Food for Education

In the face of this crisis, Wawira Njiru founded Food for Education in 2016, a program aimed at providing nutritious, affordable meals to schoolchildren across Kenya. The initiative was born out of Wawira’s personal experiences and her desire to make a real difference in the lives of children affected by hunger. Since its launch, the program has provided over 50 million meals to schoolchildren, positively impacting their health, school attendance, and academic performance.

Njiru’s approach is both innovative and cost-effective, with each meal costing as little as 3–4 US cents. This affordability has made the program one of the most scalable meal initiatives in the world. By working with local suppliers and focusing on locally sourced ingredients, Food for Education provides meals that are both nutritious and sustainable. But the impact goes beyond food, the initiative also plays a key role in improving school attendance and performance.

“When children are well-fed, they perform better in school,” says Njiru. “They are more focused, healthier, and better equipped to learn.”

Dishi Na County: A Partnership for Greater Impact

Njiru’s latest initiative, Dishi Na County, launched in partnership with Nairobi County, is taking the Food for Education model to new heights. This ambitious program aims to feed 250,000 children daily, addressing hunger while also providing a platform for improving educational outcomes.

Dishi Na County takes a technological leap by incorporating the Tap2Eat platform, allowing children to pay for meals with smartwatches. This innovative system makes the meal distribution process more efficient, minimizing barriers, and making it easier for families to access healthy meals.

The program’s success lies in its ability to address several systemic issues at once: hunger, poor school attendance, and lack of resources. By providing consistent, nutritious meals, the program is helping to break the cycle of malnutrition and create a healthier, more productive future for children.

The Personal Touch: Voices of Those Impacted

To truly understand the importance of Food for Education and initiatives like Dishi Na County, it’s crucial to hear directly from those who benefit from it. Parents and children who have received regular meals through these programs share their stories of transformation.

Jemimah, a mother of two in Nairobi, shares how her children’s performance in school has improved since joining the program. “Before, my children were often sick and couldn’t concentrate in school. Now, they are healthier and more focused,” she says.

Similarly, Mwangi, a student at a local school, proudly recounts how receiving meals at school has allowed him to stay in class longer and perform better. “I feel strong when I eat at school, and I can study better,” he says with a smile.

These personal stories illustrate how access to food can dramatically change a child’s daily life, academic performance, and ultimately their future.

A Model for the Future

Food for Education’s innovative model serves as a blueprint for addressing child malnutrition and food insecurity across Africa and beyond. The program has shown that with the right partnerships, technology, and a commitment to sustainable solutions, it is possible to create a future where no child is left behind due to hunger.

Wawira Njiru’s dream is clear: to ensure that every child has access to nutritious food, a healthier future, and the opportunity to thrive. “The impact of providing a child with food goes beyond just filling their stomachs; it’s about empowering them to reach their full potential,” she says.

As global efforts to combat malnutrition continue, initiatives like Food for Education are leading the way in demonstrating how scalable, cost-effective solutions can change the trajectory of millions of children’s lives.

The Path Ahead

The fight against child malnutrition is far from over, but Wawira Njiru’s work has shown that transformative change is possible. With continued support, innovative programs like Food for Education can help ensure that every child, no matter where they are, has the opportunity to grow, thrive, and succeed.

 By Joe Aura, Aurajoe6@gmail.com

In a historic turn of events, the United States has recently voiced its support for granting Africa two permanent seats on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), a proposal that could shift the balance of global diplomacy. The Security Council, a vital institution in maintaining global peace and security, has been dominated by five permanent members, the U.S., the U.K., France, Russia, and China, since its formation in 1945. These nations not only hold permanent membership but also possess veto power, allowing them to block any substantive decisions. This structure, however, excludes a continent of more than 1.2 billion people, Africa, a region burdened with some of the world’s most pressing security challenges.

Currently, African nations occupy three rotating, non-permanent seats on the UNSC, a limited role with no veto power. The U.S.’s recent endorsement for two permanent seats for African nations, albeit without veto power, has sparked debate across the globe. Some view this move as a step toward inclusivity, while others see the exclusion of veto power as a form of continued marginalization.

The Case for Permanent African Representation

Africa’s case for permanent seats on the UNSC is compelling, particularly as the continent’s geopolitical and economic influence continues to grow. From peacekeeping missions to economic partnerships, African countries play an increasingly central role in global governance. The growing number of conflicts in the region, from terrorism in the Sahel to ongoing instability in the Horn of Africa, further underscores the need for stronger African representation in global decision-making.

Sierra Leone’s President, Julius Maada Bio, has voiced the importance of justice and equity in the UNSC’s decision-making processes. His position aligns with that of many African leaders who argue that Africa’s contributions to global security and economic growth justify its call for a stronger voice at the table. The challenge, however, lies in whether Africa’s inclusion in the Council will truly reflect a shift in global power or merely reinforce existing inequalities.

The Growing Debate: South Africa vs. Nigeria?

In the wake of the U.S. proposal, debates about which two African countries should receive permanent seats have taken center stage. Recent surveys reveal a preference for South Africa and Nigeria, with South Africa leading the charge. In the first round of voting, South Africa emerged as the top choice, securing 32.8% of votes, while Nigeria garnered 15.6%. Other notable contenders included Kenya, Egypt, and Ghana.

The second round, conducted in October 2023, solidified South Africa’s position as the top contender, with 32.8% of respondents pairing it with Nigeria. The backing of both nations stems from their economic power and political influence. Nigeria, with its vast population and growing economy, has already asserted its claim. Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar highlighted Nigeria’s democratic credentials and its role as a leading force in African diplomacy, stressing that the country should be considered for a permanent seat due to its size, economic prowess, and democratic standing.

South Africa, with its strong voice in African and global politics, also views itself as a natural choice for the seat. However, as Chrispin Phiri, spokesperson for South Africa’s Department of International Relations, suggested, while the survey results are interesting, it is too soon to make any conclusions about who should represent Africa on the Council.

Unity and Challenges within Africa

Despite the apparent unity in Africa’s call for a permanent seat, experts caution that there are complexities involved in choosing which countries should represent the continent. Priyal Singh, an analyst at the Institute for Security Studies in Pretoria, emphasizes that while South Africa and Nigeria are economic powerhouses, other nations such as Kenya, Egypt, and Ethiopia also have strong claims based on their regional and global influence.

The African Union (AU) has made it clear that it expects its representatives to have veto power, particularly if the five existing permanent members retain theirs. Uganda’s Ambassador to the UN, Adonia Ayebare, has underscored that Africa will not settle for second-class treatment. “If there is a veto, why not have it?” he asked, reinforcing the idea that Africa’s status on the global stage should reflect its growing influence and not simply be a token gesture.

What Does the Future Hold?

The road to securing permanent seats on the UNSC will not be straightforward. The choice of which countries will occupy those seats, if the proposal passes, will ultimately be decided at an African Union summit. This decision will likely be a complex one, influenced by various factors, including population size, contributions to peacekeeping, and economic influence.

Furthermore, it remains to be seen how the global community will react to Africa’s potential inclusion. While the U.S. has offered its support, other powers, particularly China and Russia, may have different priorities when it comes to expanding the Security Council. As U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield noted, the proposal is a significant step forward, but challenges remain, especially regarding the question of veto power.

In conclusion, the question of whether it is time for Africa to reshape global diplomacy is one that will have profound implications for the future of the UNSC and global governance. As the continent continues to grow in both power and influence, the call for stronger representation is becoming louder. But whether this will translate into permanent seats on the UNSC, and whether those seats will come with the veto power that Africa insists upon, remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that Africa’s role in global diplomacy is poised to expand, and the world may be on the verge of a diplomatic shift that redefines international relations for the 21st century.