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  • Why The Met Gala Is The Real The Hunger Games

    By Joe Aura,

    (aurajoe6@gmail.com)

    Based on Suzanne Collins’ novel, “The Hunger Games,” a film directed by Gary Ross in 2012, enthralled viewers with its dystopian story of survival and spectacle. Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, and a fantastic cast of characters brought the violent ritual of the Hunger Games—in which young people from Panem’s districts compete to the death for televised entertainment—to the attention of audiences. Now, a fascinating essay compares this depressing story to the yearly Met Gala, an extravagant occasion that reflects the Capitol’s luxury while strikingly differing from everyday hardships. The article highlights the differences in society between affluence and adversity by examining how the Gala and the Capitol both engage in excess and escape through a comparative lens.

    Spectacle vs. Struggle

    At the heart of both the Met Gala and The Hunger Games lies a stark juxtaposition between spectacle and struggle. While the former epitomizes extravagance and luxury, the latter portrays a world rife with inequality and oppression. The parallels are evident in the stark contrast between the generosity of the Capitol and the deprivation endured by the districts, mirroring the disconnect between the opulence of the Met Gala and the harsh realities faced by many worldwide.

    Theme Interpretation

    Each year, the Met Gala adopts a theme that sets the stage for sartorial innovation and creative expression. However, amidst themes like “Camp: Notes on Fashion” and “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination,” one cannot help but draw parallels to the extravagant themes and escapism prevalent in The Hunger Games. The whimsical interpretations of these themes often appear tone-deaf in the face of global unrest, echoing the Capitol’s penchant for indulgence amidst societal turmoil.

    Proximity to Protest

    Reports of protests near the Met Gala venue serve as a poignant reminder of the stark divide between the privileged attendees and those advocating for social justice. This proximity to protest echoes the class disparity depicted in The Hunger Games, where the affluent Capitol residents remain oblivious to the struggles of the oppressed districts. The parallels underscore the societal divide and the disconnect between the elite and the marginalized.

    Responsibilities of the Influential

    In times of crisis, the influential wield significant power to effect change and raise awareness on pressing global issues. The comparison to The Hunger Games serves as a metaphorical critique, prompting reflection on the responsibilities of the elite in addressing societal injustices. As such, the Met Gala serves as a microcosm of broader societal disparities, highlighting the imperative for empathy, awareness, and collective action.

  • Daystar Decides.

    BY Esther Nalotwesha

    In a surprising turn of events, Felix Ochieng’ has emerged victorious in the highly anticipated Daystar University presidential elections. Ochieng’, alongside his deputy Valarie Nyamancha, defied the odds and secured a resounding win, leaving the presumed front-runners, Stephen Rob Halkano, alias “Bokore,” Henry Wanjiru and Andrew Sakawa Ombengi, in their wake.

    The political season at Daystar University has been nothing short of hectic, with emotions running high and alliances shifting at every turn. Initially, Ochieng’s candidacy was thrown into doubt when he was disqualified from the race, a decision that sent shockwaves through the student body.

    However, in a dramatic turn of events, Ochieng’ successfully appealed the decision, paving the way for his unlikely triumph. His reinstatement in the race was met with mixed reactions, with some hailing it as a victory for due process, while others questioned the integrity of the electoral process.

    “This is a testament to the resilience of our democratic principles,” Ochieng’ declared in his acceptance speech. “We have proven that no obstacle is insurmountable when we stand united in our pursuit of progress.”

    The real competition was widely expected to be between the charismatic Stephen Rob Halkano, known as “Bokore,” and the enigmatic Andrew Sakawa Ombengi. Both candidates had amassed sizable followings and garnered significant support from various students across both campuses.

     

    Halkano, in particular, had positioned himself as the voice of the disenchanted, promising sweeping reforms and a radical departure from the status quo. Leading the Radiance Alliance Party, he was termed as ‘’Baba Lao’’

    On the other hand, Ombengi presented himself as a pragmatic and experienced leader, touting his record of accomplishment of successfully navigating his loss during the previous year’s election. His slogan, “Sakawa cares” appealed to those seeking stability and continuity.

    As the results trickled in, it became evident that Ochieng’ had managed to capture the hearts and minds of the student body, securing a decisive victory that left many pundits and political analysts scratching their heads.

    In his victory speech, Ochieng’ extended an olive branch to his opponents, calling for unity and cooperation in addressing the pressing issues facing the university. “Today, we put aside our differences and come together as one Daystar community,” he declared, drawing thunderous applause from his supporters.

    The coming days and weeks will be crucial for the newly elected administration as they navigate the complex landscape of student governance. However, one thing is certain: the students of Daystar University have spoken, and a new chapter in the university’s history has begun.

    As the dust settles and the campaign banners are taken down, the entire Daystar community eagerly awaits the unfolding of Ochieng’s presidency, hoping that his unexpected triumph will usher in an era of positive change and progress for the esteemed institution.

  • Easy and Delicious Rabbit Recipes

    By DEPHINE MUTINDA

     

    Ever tried rabbit meat? Thought so, many of the people I know have never had rabbit meat and have no interest in even trying it for different reasons. Rabbit meat is known to be white, fine grained and with mild flavor. It is very nutritious because it is known for the high protein levels. It also tastes very good. Since it’s a small animal, it’s pretty easy to butcher at the comfort of your home hence increasing family’s ability to consume fresh meat within their reach. I would personally recommend rabbit meat to each and every one of you for the countless benefits that come with it.

    Study shows that rabbit meat has the following benefits:
     A very high protein content, more than beef and poultry. 33g protein.
     It is very low in fat, the leanest actually. 100 g/3.5 oz. contains 3.5% fat.
     A rabbit is very low in calories, making it a very good choice for people who are trying to lose weight, 173calories per 100g.
     Highly concentrated in iron.
     Very low cholesterol levels.
     Rich in minerals.
     Contains less sodium than beef and the rest.

    There are different methods of preparing rabbit meat. I am going to sample out a few methods that were going to be discussing today.
    They include;
    1. Rabbit stew.
    2. Pot roasted rabbit.
    3. Stuffed rabbit.
    4. Delicious BBQ grilled and marinated rabbit.
    5. Crispy Deep fried rabbit.
    6. Rabbit curry

    1. RABBIT STEW WITH RED WINE.
    If you are a fan of meat in a wine sauce, then you’ll probably want to give this recipe a chance. It has a lot of different ingredients, but they are all natural so they should be pretty easy to locate. However, if you aren’t a fan of red wine, you could possibly substitute regular grape juice and see if you like the taste any better.

    Ingredients:
     1 rabbit.
     2 tablespoons vegetable oil.
     2 large onions.
     11/3 cups of water.
     Two medium carrots.
     1 large red bell pepper.
     11/4 cup beer(pills)
     125grams cup pureed tomatoes.
     3-4bay leaves.
     Fine sea salt and pepper.

    Instructions
    1. Cut the rabbit into 5 or 6 smaller pieces
    2. Heat 2 table spoons of oil in the oven or on a heavy bottomed pot and fry the rabbit on both sides until golden brown. Then remove from the pan.
    3. Cut the onions into halves and slice the halves thinly. Pour the remaining oil in the pot and fry the onions on low-medium heat, stirring often for about 20minutes. Add some water from time to time to prevent it from drying out or burning.
    4. As that boils, dice the carrots and the red bell pepper. Add the vegetables to the onions and continue cooking, and stirring in between for about 5minutes. Add the sweet and smoked paprika powder and stir well for one minute.
    5. Press the rabbit pieces back in the pot, add the beer, pureed tomatoes, and enough water to barely cover the rabbit. And add the bay leaves, the juniper berries, some salt, and pepper.
    6. Cover the pot, bring it to boil and gently simmer for about 11/2 hour or until the meat is really tender, it should basically fall of the bone for you to know it fully ready.
    7. Add salt and pepper for a great taste and serve while hot with mashed potatoes and pickles or anything of your choice.

    2. POT ROASTED RABBIT.
    This recipe contains mushrooms, bacon, and rabbit. Is your mouth watering yet? Because mine was from the get go.
    So if you’d like to fry your rabbit meat and combine it with some other delicious ingredients, then you should certainly give this recipe a go.

    Ingredients
    5 slice of bacon
    1 1/2pound rabbit,
    Red pepper
    ground black pepper
    1 cup flour
    4cups of fresh mushrooms,
    Slice 1 small onion,
    Chopped 2 clove garlic,
    Chicken broth
    1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
    1/2 tsp. dry mustard

    Instructions
    1. In a pot, cook the bacon until crisp, drain it on serviette or a towel, and leave the draining in the pot. Later, crumble the bacon and put it aside.
    2. Marinate the rabbit with black pepper, then coat it in flour. Brown the rabbit in the drippings in the pot over medium heat, later remove the rabbit from the pot.
    3. Remain some of the drippings in the pot, about 4table spoons, add mushroom, onions, green pepper and garlic. All into the pot. Cook until tender, stirring from time to time.
    4. Stir the chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, and dry mustard into the vegetables in the pot. Now add the rabbit to the pot. Cover and simmer about an hour until the meat is tender.
    5. Later serve the meat on a plate, spoon a mixture of everything over the meat and sprinkle the rabbit with the scrambled bacon.

    3. STUFFED RABBIT RECIPES
    These is just like any other stuff that all stuffing lovers do, be it your baked chicken stuff or turkey.
    Join me and you will love these simple recipe.
    Use your favorite homemade turkey stuffing to fill the cavities of one or two rabbits. (We had enough stuffing for one rabbit.) You can, of course, fill as many rabbits as you have stuffing for. Bake the rabbits in the oven. This also makes a great crock pot rabbit recipe.

    Ingredients:
    — 1 or 2 cleaned rabbits
    — Your favorite turkey stuffing recipe
    — 1 cup water or chicken broth
    — Vegetables: potatoes, onions, carrots, garlic cloves
    — Optional: 1-2 tablespoons butter

    Instructions
    i. Preheat oven to 350deg.
    ii. Rinse one or two fresh rabbit fryers.
    iii. Prepare your favorite turkey stuffing recipe.
    iv. Stuff the lung and the abdominal cavity with the turkey stuffing.
    v. With cooking twine, tie the cavities closed.
    vi. Rub rabbit with olive oil or melted butter.
    vii. Optional: dot the rabbits and veggies with butter
    viii. Place in covered casserole.
    ix. Add 1 cup of water or chicken broth to casserole.
    x. Add your choice of chunked onions, red potatoes, carrots, garlic cloves
    xi. Cover casserole, and bake for 1 1/2 – 2 hours or until done.

    4. DELICIOUS BBQ GRILLED & MARINATED RABBIT RECIPE
    Smashed herbs on any grill adds a certain flavor on the meat, especially the rabbit meat we’re about to look into. I’ve written this recipe to be cooked on the barbecue, because the flavor will be amazing.

    Ingredients
    1 cup of BBQ sauce
    Assorted veggies for grilling
    1rabbit, preferably wild, jointed
    1 handful fresh thyme and rosemary, leaves picked
    4 cloves garlic, peeled.
    Olive oil
    1 lemon, zest and juice of
    1 teaspoon honey
    4 thick slices higher-welfare pancetta
    Salt
    Fresh ground black pepper

    Instructions
    1. Heat the BBQ to medium heat. While heating, cut the rabbit’s rib cage then press down flat.
    2. Put your rabbit on a surface, Using a pestle and mortar, or a liquidizer, bash or whiz up the thyme and rosemary leaves to a pulp, then add the garlic cloves and bash or whiz again. Stir in 8 tablespoons of olive oil, the lemon zest and juice and the honey, and pour this over the rabbit.
    Now I’m going to talk about flavor. Get a couple of sprigs of fresh thyme and tie them together like a little brush. Each time you turn the meat, dab it with a little of the marinade to give you a lovely encrusted layer of flavor. This rabbit is going to be really tasty!
    3. Keeping the marinade to one side, preferably the inside part. Remove the pieces of meat and season with salt and pepper.
    4. Lay your rabbit on the grill, marinade side down. Turn the heat down and cover. Set your timer for 15-20 minutes. Make sure you turn the meat over every so often. Look after it by controlling the temperature and basting it continuously with the marinade.
    5. After 15-20 minutes, coat the other side of the rabbit with half the remaining sauce. Then add tender grilling veggies like zucchini and pepper.
    6. Cover the grill and cook for other 20 minutes until the juices run clear and thigh reads 160 degrees.
    7. Let the ribs rest out of hit for 10minutes.
    8. Chop, and serve.

    You can serve the rabbit with any white beans, or roast potatoes, or grilled vegetables, or different salads – it really depends on how you feel and what the weather’s like. Just put a big bowl of your chosen accompaniment in the middle of the table and serve all the meat on a board. Lovely with a glass of white wine. Simple, honest and bloody good recipe.

    5. Crispy Fried Wild Rabbit Recipes
    These is usually the way to go for most meat lovers, just deep fried. So, were going to make that recipe of yours a little bit spicy.

    Ingredients
    8 wild rabbit legs
    2 pint vegetables or chicken stock
    1 glass medium sweet white wine
    1 lemon peeling
    4 bay leaves
    500grams olive oil.
    For coatings
    1 handful flour
    1 egg
    Breadcrumbs

    Instructions
    1. Boil the rabbit legs in the stock, wine, lemon peel and bay leaves for 45 minutes
    2. Leave the meat to cool, preferably 12-24hours.
    3. Remove the meat from the stock and pat till dry. Deep it in the flour, then in the whisked egg, then coat with the bread crumbs.9repeat these for all legs)
    4. Deep fry in the olive oil at 160c for 6mins.
    5. Serve on your most favorite plate with a dip in source of garlic mayonnaise and lemon wedges.

     

    6. RABBIT CURRY
    If you are a fun of any type of curry, you will definitely love these recipe.

    Ingredients
    1/4 cup of vegetable oil
    Two pounds of rabbit meat, cut off the bones and into chunks
    Salt
    10
    Two cups of white onion
    2 table spoons of minced ginger
    Two table spoons of minced garlic
    A 500g can of tomato paste
    One cup of plain yogurt
    2 bay leaves
    1 teaspoon of turmeric
    1/4cup of madras curry paste
    One table spoon of garam masala

    Instructions
    1. Heat the vegetable oil in a pot with a lid under medium heat. Pat the rabbit pieces dry with a towel or serviette then brown them well. Salt the meat as it cooks. Remove to a bowl once it browns.
    2. Add the onions to the pot and allow them to brown. Add the ginger and garlic simultaneously and keep stirring for a minute.
    3. Return the meat to the pot and add the tomato paste, water, bay leaves, turmeric and madras paste. Stir in the yogurt to a gentle simmer. Add salt to taste and simmer for 30minutes.
    4. Serve while hot.
    So for those of you all that are considering raising meat rabbits but weren’t really sure what you’d do with them, I hope that these 6 rabbit recipes have now inspired you in your culinary efforts.

    YOU SHOULD TRY

  • Remembering the Journalists: World Press Day

    By Joe Aura

    (aurajoe6@gmail.com)

    World Press Freedom Day is observed on May 3rd each year. It was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in December 1993, following the recommendation of UNESCO’s General Conference. This day serves to raise awareness of the importance of freedom of the press and reminds governments of their duty to respect and uphold the right to freedom of expression, as enshrined under Article 19 of the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

    In 2024, World Press Freedom Day is dedicated to the importance of journalism and freedom of expression in the context of the current global environmental crisis. Journalists play a crucial role in disseminating information about contemporary issues related to the environment, such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and air pollution. Their work ensures the visibility of these critical issues, promotes peace, and supports democratic values worldwide. To achieve sustainable development, journalists must report accurately, timely, and comprehensively on environmental matters and their consequences, as well as possible solutions.

    The Israel-Gaza conflict, ongoing since April 26, 2024, has tragically claimed the lives of numerous journalists who valiantly reported from the frontlines. These brave individuals, dedicated to delivering accurate information amidst the chaos of war, have paid the ultimate price for their commitment.
    Ninety-seven journalists and media workers have lost their lives since the conflict began. Among them, 92 were Palestinian journalists deeply embedded in their communities, passionately sharing the stories of their people. Two Israeli journalists also fell victim to the violence, endeavoring to provide balanced coverage despite the dangers.

    Additionally, three Lebanese journalists lost their lives while reporting on the conflict.

    In addition to the lives lost, sixteen journalists have been reported injured, while the families of four journalists anxiously await news of their missing loved ones.

    Furthermore, twenty-five journalists have been unjustly arrested, their dedication to truth and transparency leading them into captivity.

    Journalists reporting from Gaza faced unprecedented challenges, including relentless Israeli airstrikes that turned their reporting zones into danger zones. Disrupted communication networks hindered their ability to relay critical information, while shortages of food, water, and medical supplies affected both civilians and journalists alike. Extensive power outages further complicated their work, plunging Gaza into darkness.
    The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) tirelessly investigates reports of journalists being killed, missing, detained, injured, or threatened. Their efforts ensure that the sacrifices of these brave journalists are not forgotten and that justice is pursued for those responsible.

    As we observe World Press Day, we must reflect on the importance of the work undertaken by journalists worldwide. They are the guardians of truth, risking their lives to shed light on the darkest corners of the world. Their dedication to upholding the principles of a free press serves as a beacon of hope for future generations. On this day, let us honor the memory of fallen journalists and renew our commitment to defending press freedom everywhere.

  • Ang Flies, Mixed up Storylines, and Head-Scratching CGI: A Review of Netflix’s New Avatar Animated Series

    By Joe Aura,

    Look, it wasn’t as bad as you think, but Avatar fans have never really recovered from the Avatar movie made back in 2012. Here is what we had to say about the new Avatar animated series on Netflix.
    When it was announced that Netflix would be bringing the Avatar universe back to life with a new animated series, fans of the original series were understandably excited. After all, the world of bending, intricate characters, and compelling storylines had left an indelible mark on viewers when it first aired. However, as the series premiered and episodes began to roll out, it became evident that this new iteration had its fair share of flaws.
    One of the most glaring issues with the new Avatar animated series is the inconsistent storytelling. While the original series was known for its tightly woven plotlines and character development, this new series seems to suffer from a lack of direction. Plot points are introduced and then seemingly forgotten, leaving viewers scratching their heads and wondering where the story is headed.
    Another aspect that has left fans disappointed is the subpar CGI animation. In a world where animated series like “The Legend of Korra” have set the bar high for animation quality, the CGI in this new Avatar series falls short. Characters move stiffly, and the overall aesthetic feels flat compared to the lush, vibrant world of the original series.
    But perhaps the most divisive aspect of the new Avatar series is the character of Ang. While Ang was a beloved protagonist in the original series, this new iteration of the character feels like a pale imitation. His motivations are unclear, and his actions often feel out of character, leaving fans wondering what happened to the Ang they knew and loved.
    Despite these flaws, it’s not all doom and gloom for the new Avatar animated series. There are still moments of brilliance scattered throughout, from breathtaking bending sequences to moments of genuine emotion between characters. And while it may not live up to the lofty expectations set by its predecessor, there’s still enough here to keep die-hard fans of the Avatar universe engaged.

  • The Deadly Price Tag

    By Rose Maina

     

    In Kenya, as in many other parts of the world, financial disparity between genders persists. Men, leveraging their economic advantage, often entice vulnerable women with promises of financial security, employment opportunities, or material possessions. These seemingly enticing offers serve as a smokescreen for their ulterior motives, leading unsuspecting women into dangerous situations.

     

    Picture this: I once landed a gig as a freelance videographer for this company, and let me tell you, it was a rollercoaster ride. The guy in charge, the big boss of production, seemed charming at first glance, but boy, was he sly and downright creepy. He’d dangle job offers like juicy bait, but here’s the catch: you had to play by his twisted rules, meaning, you-know-what. Refuse to dance to his tune, and suddenly, those job calls stopped coming your way. It was like dangling a carrot in front of my nose, only to snatch it away when I wouldn’t play his game. And get this, one time he even had the nerve to threaten to stiff me on payment unless I gave in to his demands. Talk about a nightmare gig!

     

    For many women, what starts off as a straightforward transaction or invitation rapidly turns into a nightmare. After becoming entangled in the web of deceit, women are left at the mercy of the people who are abusing them, and they are eventually threatened with violence or even death. These criminals use their financial clout to maintain control over their victims, providing them with few options for escape.

     

    The prevalence of femicide, driven by financial manipulation, highlights the urgent need for comprehensive societal action. This necessitates increased awareness campaigns, education on gender equality, and legal reforms as crucial steps in combating this pervasive issue. Empowering women economically, providing access to resources, and fostering a culture of support and solidarity are essential for dismantling the structures enabling such atrocities to occur.

     

    Addressing femicide rooted in financial manipulation fundamentally requires challenging deeply entrenched patriarchal norms that perpetuate gender inequality and violence against women. This demands a collective effort involving government agencies, civil society organizations, community leaders, and individuals alike. By challenging societal attitudes and norms prioritizing male dominance and control, we can strive towards a future where women are valued, respected, and safe from harm.

    In Kenya, as in many other parts of the world, financial disparity between genders persists. Men, leveraging their economic advantage, often entice vulnerable women with promises of financial security, employment opportunities, or material possessions. These seemingly enticing offers serve as a smokescreen for their ulterior motives, leading unsuspecting women into dangerous situations.

     

    Picture this: I once landed a gig as a freelance videographer for this company, and let me tell you, it was a rollercoaster ride. The guy in charge, the big boss of production, seemed charming at first glance, but boy, was he sly and downright creepy. He’d dangle job offers like juicy bait, but here’s the catch: you had to play by his twisted rules, meaning, you-know-what. Refuse to dance to his tune, and suddenly, those job calls stopped coming your way. It was like dangling a carrot in front of my nose, only to snatch it away when I wouldn’t play his game. And get this, one time he even had the nerve to threaten to stiff me on payment unless I gave in to his demands. Talk about a nightmare gig!

     

    For many women, what starts off as a straightforward transaction or invitation rapidly turns into a nightmare. After becoming entangled in the web of deceit, women are left at the mercy of the people who are abusing them, and they are eventually threatened with violence or even death. These criminals use their financial clout to maintain control over their victims, providing them with few options for escape.

     

    The prevalence of femicide, driven by financial manipulation, highlights the urgent need for comprehensive societal action. This necessitates increased awareness campaigns, education on gender equality, and legal reforms as crucial steps in combating this pervasive issue. Empowering women economically, providing access to resources, and fostering a culture of support and solidarity are essential for dismantling the structures enabling such atrocities to occur.

     

    Addressing femicide rooted in financial manipulation fundamentally requires challenging deeply entrenched patriarchal norms that perpetuate gender inequality and violence against women. This demands a collective effort involving government agencies, civil society organizations, community leaders, and individuals alike. By challenging societal attitudes and norms prioritizing male dominance and control, we can strive towards a future where women are valued, respected, and safe from harm.

  • Urgent Safety Measures Issued Amid Devastating Floods

    By Joe Aura,

    (aurajoe6@gmail.com)

    April 27, 2024

    In the wake of the recent devastating floods that have swept through various parts of Kenya, claiming lives and displacing thousands, urgent safety measures have been issued to ensure the well-being of citizens, including students and locals.
    According to the Mathare Social Justice Center, over 40 Kenyans tragically lost their lives due to the floods in Mathare alone, with many more left homeless and in desperate need of support. The heavy rains have wreaked havoc on communities, causing significant loss of livelihoods, damaging homes, farmland, and businesses.
    The Kenya Red Cross Society reports that over 100,000 people from nearly 21,000 households have been impacted by the floods, with over 40,000 individuals displaced from their homes. In Nairobi County, informal settlements such as Kibra, Viwandani, and Mukuru Kwa Njenga have borne the brunt of the flooding, highlighting the vulnerability of those living in marginalized areas.
    In response to the crisis, authorities have issued crucial safety tips to mitigate the risks posed by the ongoing floods:
    Safety Tips During Floods:
    1. Evacuate immediately to elevated areas: If flooding occurs, seek higher ground immediately to ensure your safety.
    2. Beware of moving water: Just 6 inches of moving water can be enough to knock you off your feet. Avoid walking or driving through flooded areas.
    3. Switch off electricity: If your house is flooded, switch off the electricity at the main switch to avoid the risk of electrocution.
    4. Avoid rivers and streams: Do not park, drive, or conduct activities along rivers or streams during floods, as 1 foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
    5. Watch out for downed power lines: Stay away from downed power lines and muddy waters where power lines may have fallen. Use a stick to test the depth of flooded areas.
    6. Do not drive over flooded bridges: It’s crucial to avoid driving over bridges that are flooded, as they may be structurally compromised.
    7. Stay informed: Keep yourself updated on the latest weather forecasts and flood warnings by listening to radio or TV stations.
    These safety measures are vital for protecting lives and minimizing the risk of further casualties during this challenging time. Let us all remain vigilant, support those affected, and prioritize safety above all else.

  • Clothing the revolution

    By Susan Majimbo

    &nbsp壯陽藥
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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!

  • Earth Day Every Day: Protecting Our Planet’s Unsung Heroes

    By Joe Aura,

    [aurajoe6@gmail.com]

     

    As we celebrate Earth Day (April 22nd), it is essential to remember that our commitment to environmental conservation extends far beyond a single day of the year. Earth Day is every day, and it serves as a reminder that all living beings, including animals, deserve our protection and care. Among these unsung heroes is the donkey, whose history in Kenya is deeply intertwined with the fabric of communities across the nation.

    For centuries, the donkey has been a reliable companion, aiding in transportation, agriculture, and daily tasks that sustain livelihoods in Kenya (source: Brooke East Africa). Its contributions to these communities are immeasurable, yet often overlooked. From the bustling streets of Nairobi to the remote villages of Turkana, the donkey is a symbol of resilience and cooperation, bridging gaps between people and facilitating essential activities of daily life.

    However, the very existence of these noble creatures is under threat due to illegal slaughtering driven by international demand for their skins. This illicit trade not only endangers the survival of donkey populations but also fuels other crimes and health issues within communities (source: KARLO Annual Report, 2019). The high demand for donkey skins in countries like China, where they are used in traditional medicine, exacerbates the problem, pushing these animals to the brink of extinction.

    Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the Kenyan government has taken decisive action to prevent the mistreatment and extinction of donkeys. Measures such as the immediate formation of multi-agency teams across counties, tasked with enforcing operations against illegal slaughterhouses, demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding these invaluable creatures (source: Government of Kenya, Ministry of Agriculture). Furthermore, public awareness campaigns, media outreach, and stringent regulations on meat slaughter, transport, and sale aim to curb illicit activities and promote the ethical treatment of animals.

    As stakeholders and earth lovers, we have a responsibility to treat animals with compassion and respect, not just on Earth Day, but every day. By advocating for animal welfare, supporting government initiatives, and making conscious choices in our daily lives, we can honor the spirit of Earth Day and ensure a sustainable future for all living beings on our planet. Let us pledge to protect and cherish the unsung heroes like the donkey, for they are integral to the delicate balance of life on Earth.

     

  • General Francis Ogolla’s Last Salute

    By Leeroy Wuone

    General Francis Omondi Ogolla MGH EBS HSC `ndc’ (K) `psc’ (FRA) perished in a fatal helicopter crash on the April 18,2024 that also claimed the lives of 9 others. It was not immediately clear what caused the crash.

    The military helicopter crashed in a remote forested area in Sindar area,Kaben location,Tot division Elgeyo Marakwet county. This is the first time a sitting Chief of Defence Forces(CDF) has passed away while in office since independence times of Kenya. The unsettling trend of chopper crashes now raises concerns for the need of a thorough review of the airworthiness of Kenya’s state-owned aircraft.

    The other 9 victims killed in the fatal chopper crash were Brig Swaleh Saidi,Col Duncan Keittany,Lt Col David Sawe, Maj George Magondu, Capt Sora Mohamed, Capt Hillary Litali, SSgt John Kinyua Mureithi, Sgt Cliphonce Omondi and Sgt Rose Nyawira.

    The late General Ogolla had hoped to accomplish much and was focused on a mission of defending Kenya’s sovereignity as a republic. The late general was also on a mission of modernizing the military, weaponry included,“militaries evolve and threats to national security change everyday. We must keep evolving and equipping ourselves, said the late general earlier on. He was also on a mission to ensure that those under his command were well housed, their families well taken care of and the education of their children taken care of too.

    The late Ogolla joined the KDF on April 24,1984 and was commissioned on May 6,1985 as 2nd Lieutenant having trained as a fighter pilot with the US Air Force and as an instructor at the Kenya Air Force (KAF). He received a first class Honors in Bachelor of Arts in political science, Armed Conflict and Peace studies. He also holds a master of Arts in International studies from the University of Nairobi. The late Ogolla held senior positions in the military, including commanding officer Laikipia Air base Tactical flight wing in 2007, Base commander Laikipia Air base 2008-2014. He was also the chief flying instructor at the Kenya Air Force flying training school, and operations desk officer at Kenya Air Force headquarters (KAF). He was promoted to Brigadier April 10,2012 and subsequently appointed as Deputy Air Force Commander on July,2018,he was promoted to major General and appointed commander of the Air Force.The late General Ogolla was then promoted to Lieutenant General in July 23,2021 and named as the Vice Chief of Defence forces(VCDF) deputizing Ex CDF Rtd General Robert Kariuki Kibochi (2020-2023).

    Upon the exit of General Kibochi, according to the Tonje rules,the CDF position was decided upon rotations among the 3 services the Kenya Army,Kenya Air Force and the Kenya Navy. According to the rules,the two Snr most officers after General Kibochi’s exit were Lt. General Ogolla and Lt. General Mohamed Badi. Former CDF Daudi Tonje was former CDF who served between 1996 and 2001 under the Moi regime. He remembered the late Ogolla as a pilot who trained Kenya Air Force Officers (KAF) where he mentored many young pilots.

    The late General Ogolla was married to Aileen, and blessed with two children and a grandson. Marking his first 100 days in office, he said, “I like to read, I used to love golf, but the day I was appointed CDF I kept my golf clubs aside. I said`let me focus on this job wholeheartedly.”

    Rest in Peace son of the soil, in the final words of General Douglas MacArthur’s an Ex USA chief of Defence,final address to a joint session of the United States Congress recorded in 1951),the old soldiers never die, they just fade away.In the eyes of Kenyans,we would put it as old General Francis Omondi Ogolla never dies, he just fades away.