invo.nyarango.me

Blog

  • 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.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Faith Kipyegon’s Marathon Masterclass

    By Joe Aura, aurajoe6@gmail.com

    As the bell rang for the final lap, the crowd erupted. Poised and still unfazed, she shifted gears. Her legs moved with effortless speed, and her rivals began to fade one by one. With 200 meters to go, she displayed a signature burst of acceleration, leaving the rest of her competitors trailing behind. The race wasn’t just a contest anymore—it was a performance. Faith Kipyegon, as she had done all season, was running against herself, against history.

    Her arms shot up in victory when she crossed the finish line, the clock showing yet another staggering time. Few athletes have displayed the sheer dominance and grace that Faith Kipyegon has shown this remarkable season. The world had just witnessed a masterclass from an athlete who seemed destined to make the impossible look routine. Faith Kipyegon had done it again, and her final race of the season was the perfect exclamation point to a year of sheer dominance.

    The Kenyan middle-distance runner, known for her incredible prowess on the track, has gracefully transcended expectations this year, establishing herself as one of the finest athletes of her generation. Her accomplishments have cemented her legacy and captivated the world of sports, with many claiming this might just be one of the best seasons in marathon history.

    Smiling Destroyer

    Faith, nicknamed the “Smiling Destroyer,” has been dominating long-distance running since her junior days. She won gold medals at the 2011 and 2013 World Cross Country Championships. Faith also secured gold in the 1500m at the 2011 World Youth Championships and the 2012 World Junior Championships. She is one of only eleven athletes to win world championships at the youth, junior, and senior levels of an athletic event. Faith’s influence was recognized when she was named one of the Top 100 Most Influential Africans by New African magazine in 2017.

    In her most decorated season yet, Kipyegon’s accolades stretch beyond breaking records. She maintained an unbeaten streak across the World Athletics Diamond League circuit, winning every race she entered. Her dual focus on both the 1500m and 5000m distances shows her extraordinary versatility as a runner. Transitioning between these two events is no easy feat, but Kipyegon has made it look effortless, further cementing her status as a once-in-a-generation talent.

    Moreover, her victories in these events haven’t just been about crossing the line first—they have redefined what is possible in women’s distance running. Faith has rewritten the standard for competitors in both events, sending a clear message that she is the athlete to beat, no matter the distance.

    Breaking Records, Setting Standards

    In June 2023, Faith Kipyegon set new world records in three events. She broke the 1500m world record with a time of 3:49.11 in Florence, surpassing Genzebe Dibaba’s previous record of 3:50.07. In the 5000m event in Paris, Kipyegon set a new world record of 14:05.20, breaking Letesenbet Gidey’s previous record of 14:06.62. Additionally, in July 2023 in Monaco, Kipyegon improved on Sifan Hassan’s mile record, setting a new record of 4:07.64, which was nearly five seconds faster than the previous record of 4:12.33.

    To further cement this, Kipyegon remained undefeated in the 1500m and 5000m throughout the 2023 Diamond League season. She shattered not one, not two, but three world records within just 50 days in 2023, creating an aura of invincibility around her name.

    She had an incredible 2024. At the Paris Olympics, she made history by winning her third consecutive gold medal in the women’s 1500 meters, setting a new Olympic record with a time of 3:51.291. This achievement makes her the first athlete, male or female, to win gold in the 1500 meters at three different Olympic Games.

    Additionally, Kipyegon faced some drama in the 5000-meter event, where she initially won a silver medal but was disqualified for obstruction. She was later reinstated. Despite the challenges, she has shown remarkable resilience and determination. These performances have been hailed not only for their speed but also for the tactical brilliance that Kipyegon brings to every race. Her ability to pace herself, conserve energy, and then unleash her famous finishing kick has become a nightmare for her competitors and a wonder for spectators.

    Beloved by rivals

    After completing a lap of honor at the Florence Diamond League, she was pleasantly surprised to see her competitors waiting at the finish line to celebrate with her. Despite representing different nations, the group of athletes came together to show their support and sportsmanship for Kipyegon’s remarkable achievement. Kipyegon expressed her gratitude for this gesture, saying, “This is the way to go for real sportsmanship in our sports. To see them waiting for me, that melts my heart.” Additionally, Kipyegon, widely regarded as the greatest female middle-distance runner in history, expressed her support for Noah Lyles’ stance on athletes embracing self-expression to elevate the profile of track and field.

    The Faith Factor: Mental and Physical Dominance

    What makes Faith Kipyegon’s season even more exceptional is how she has combined physical supremacy with mental fortitude. Her calm, composed demeanor on the track is a testament to her confidence and preparation. Even in the face of fierce competition, Kipyegon exudes an aura of tranquility, making her race look like a masterclass in how to dominate under pressure.

    Her journey to success has not been without challenges. Kipyegon, who took time off after becoming a mother in 2018, has shown the world that returning to peak form after childbirth is not only possible but can be a springboard to even greater achievements. This narrative of resilience, focus, and mental toughness has inspired a generation of athletes, particularly women, to pursue their sporting dreams without hesitation.

    Her support goes beyond the track. Olympic gold medalist Faith Kipyegon, along with several governors, recently flagged off the first-ever run aimed at addressing maternal mortality in Nairobi. The event, called the End PPH (Postpartum Haemorrhage) Run, was organized to raise awareness about maternal mortality, particularly focusing on postpartum hemorrhage, which is a leading cause of maternal deaths in Kenya and globally.

    Faith Kipyegon, who is also a mother, emphasized the importance of this cause, stating that no woman should lose her life while giving birth. The run saw participation from notable figures including Governors Susan Kihika, Cecily Mbarire, and Gladys Wanga, as well as former Chief Justice David Maraga.

    This initiative highlights the urgent need for better healthcare and resources to ensure the safety of mothers during childbirth.

    A Season for the Ages

    In a sport where margins of victory are often minuscule, Faith Kipyegon has made winning look effortless. For those fortunate enough to witness her in action this season, it has become clear that we are watching an athlete who is truly at the peak of her powers. As Kipyegon continues to push the boundaries of what is possible, one thing is certain—her season will be remembered as one of the greatest in marathon history.

    Kipyegon’s season has been nothing short of historic. As the world continues to marvel at her unprecedented streak, there’s little doubt that Faith Kipyegon has etched her name alongside the all-time greats of marathon and middle-distance running. Her blend of athleticism, strategy, and tenacity has raised the bar in women’s athletics, and her legacy is still being written.

     

     

     

     

  • 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.

     

     

     

  • Celebrating Innovation and Community at The Nairobi Show

    By Jemima Mukasa

    The Nairobi International Trade Fair is a perfect snapshot of Kenya’s dynamic culture and entrepreneurial spirit. A vibrant blend of agriculture, innovation, and entertainment, it draws everyone from seasoned farmers to curious schoolchildren. This year’s theme, “Promoting Climate Smart Agriculture & Trade Initiatives for Sustainable Economic Growth,” highlights the importance of sustainable practices in today’s world. As I navigated the crowded stands, watched children’s faces light up with excitement, and encountered a plethora of creativity, I was reminded of what makes the Nairobi show a unique event that both educates and entertains.

    At 10 a.m., the sun was already scorching, and a cloud of dust hung in the air as eager schoolchildren, overwhelmed by the thrill of being at the show, rushed around. The air was filled with their excited chatter, an energy so palpable you could almost taste it. I was making my way through the crowded stalls when a vendor caught my attention, proclaiming, “That’s why our Deputy President told the West we don’t need them! We have everything we want and need right here. Usiguze Murima!” He was selling herbal remedies, claiming to cure everything from fibroids to epilepsy. With shelves packed with pills, powders, and teas, his confidence was infectious. But, as a cautious Nairobian, I wasn’t entirely sure whether to believe his grand promises.

    As I ventured further, I was met with an overwhelming display of agriculture. Farmers from across the country showcased produce that made my own modest harvest pale in comparison. Maize as tall as my house and cabbages the size of watermelons were on display, humbling even the most seasoned growers. One farmer, after seeing a picture of my crops, told me I should burn them, they were not even fit for cows. Talk about a blow to my ego!

    But that’s the magic of the Nairobi show. It’s humbling yet inspiring. You realize that Kenyans are some of the most hardworking, innovative people. Many of the brightest minds are showcased here, and the creativity on display is astonishing. For instance, the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), in partnership with USAID, is working on an initiative to maximize underutilized fruits like gooseberries, guavas, and soursop, turning them into products like juices and jams. I even tasted millet biscuits, which were surprisingly light and milder than simsim biscuits.

    University stands are where the real gems of creativity shine. At the Kabete National Polytechnic stand, I sampled mushroom jam, an unlikely but tasty innovation. At the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) booth, students displayed a Wi-Fi booth that resembled an old-school telephone booth, a clever mix of agriculture and technology.

    Innovation didn’t stop at food and tech. One youth group, Makele Youth Drive, developed a drip irrigation system made from recycled bottles and straws, regulating water to literal drops and keeping the soil moist without overwatering. It’s a small-scale, sustainable solution that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the Nairobi show, meeting challenges with ingenuity.

    The fun didn’t end with agricultural exhibits. As I walked toward the rides section, nostalgia hit me like a wave. The laughter of children on Ferris wheels and merry-go-rounds brought me back to simpler times. Despite the inevitable post-ride nausea, the kids were back on their feet, eager for another round of fun. The music blared, competing stands played the same songs in different orders, while students lined up to see so-called mermaids, Nairobi’s classic show scams. It reminded me of the reckless abandon of my own childhood, when my biggest concern was finding a clean pair of socks for tomorrow’s shower inspection by the dorm matron.

    As my day at the fair drew to a close, I found myself at the Ketepa Tea stand for the third time, realizing I had overdone my attempts to double-dip samples. With my windbreaker and hat becoming all too recognizable, I decided it was time to leave. Just as I was about to exit, I witnessed the familiar chaos of hawkers dodging city council officers, and a group of schoolchildren who had wandered too far from their groups getting caught up in the ruckus.

    As I chuckled at a matatu sticker that read, “Chunga mwenzako, ni mwizi kama wewe,” I reflected on the day. The Nairobi show isn’t just an event, it’s a reflection of who we are as a people. From our humor to our resilience, the fair showcases our ability to thrive amidst chaos, finding joy in the simple things, like a child’s laughter or a creative idea turned into reality.

    I left the fair not just with souvenirs but with a renewed sense of pride and inspiration. I’ve taken cards from vendors who offer site visits to their farms, eager to learn more and pursue my own agricultural goals. The sense of community, the collaboration between professionals, and the innovative spirit on display were nothing short of motivating.

    In moments like these, it’s clear that the Nairobi International Trade Fair is more than just a yearly event. It’s a testament to our culture, our struggles, and our shared joy. And as I eagerly look forward to next year’s fair, I know that Kenya’s creativity and resilience will only continue to flourish.

     

  • Sikitiko la moyo

    Na Mariita Joshua 

    Langu sikitiko ni haja ya moyo,

    Moyo wenye kuvunjika na kuvunda,

    Makovu yangalipo kama alama ya utambulisho.

    Nisijafa ili nililiwe ila vikao naviona jinamizini,

    Furaha imenikoma ili wimbi la kiza litawale,

    Nani wakunipa mapendo ili mtima udunde?

    Mbona raha inikauke wakati chemichemi inabubujika?

    Nguvu sinazo, ni lelemama jina langu,

    Hawahitaji kwenda vichekeshoni,

    Mwenyewe ningalipo kitimbwi,

    Pembeni nimevikwa kirauni, mashaka mie!

    Kama matambara nimeraruka,

    Afadhali nipige deki matapishi yalozagaa sakafuni,

    Nikanyagwe na wenyeji kwa wageni,

    Nitumbukizwe majini niloe nifinyangwe.

    Wakila vitamu nilambishwe munyu,

    Niwe na ndia ndefu ya kuibusu asubuhi ifatayo,

    Nikorome kochini matumbo yakikohoa,

    Shadidi inikumbate nikauke kama aiskrimu.

    Niwe Kinyago kokote,

    Wa kuonwa niwe ila kusikiwa aa!

    Ninyate ili guu lisiporomoshe mwendo

    Nijambe ila lisinuke, niwe kimyaaa!