Convo Magazine - Issue 6

CONVO ISSUE 06 2022

HEALTH | LIFESTYLE | BUSINESS | FAMILY | SPIRITUALITY | SOCIETY

MAGAZINE

E N C O U A G I N G

C O N V E R S A T I O N S

being a mum The intricacies and the joy of being a mother

2

T H A T

M A T T E R

59 Art in 21stBusiness Strategies you Century should never ignore

Identity Tussle

HURDLES THAT MAKE GIRLS EMPOWERMENT ROAD BUMPY

MISCARRIAGE Every Woman's Nightmare

THE BOY CHILD How disfranchised is he? What you can do!

IN THE FARM

WHERE UNEMPLOYMENT CURE LAY

Every Young Adult Tussle to Maturity

ADHD All you need to know

Theme Parks Places to take your child in Doha

CLMC

In pursuit of Nurturing Generations for Christ

Francis MUCHIRI ENSURING SAFE SPACES FOR NURTURING CHILDREN

CONVO Encouraging conversations that matter

A PLATFORM GEARED TOWARD A THRIVING SOCIETY

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CONVOMAGAZINE Issue No. 06

EDITORIALNOTE

EDITORIAL

James Wetu Fridah Wachira VISUALS

Keith Nyamai SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR

FaithLucy Mwangi

James Wetu Creative Head

Fridah Wachira Deputy Editor

CONSULTING

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Manuel Consultants & Trainers Nairobi +254 728 393664 redrick Douglass said ‘’ it is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men’’ The mess we see in our current generation can be attributed to adults who were not raised right. Our upbringing affects the quality of our life, health and informs our perception of issues. Am I saying that everyone who turns out to be a robber, drug addict, corrupt leader etc. had bad parents? Not necessarily. You can be a good parent practicing bad parenting. With the times changing quite fast, there is need to restructure and redefine parenting.

On this quarterly issue, we explore how to be better parents to children in this day and age. We look at where things went wrong and try to get solutions to fix some of these problems. If we are going to make things better for our boys and girls we have to pause and ask some difficult questions. Are we going to raise our children the same way we were raised? This is a conversation we must not be afraid to have.

DESIGN & PUBLISHING BECOME VENTURES Nairobi

CONTACT US +254 724 936949 mwanetu@gmail.com

Our feature story covers the thoughts and convictions of Francis Muchiri, the principal, Ahadi Presbyterian school. He is passionate about creating safe places for children. Everything he shares is informed by vast experience and wisdom. We need more people like him in our society.

As you flip through each page of this issue, I encourage you to reflect on how parenting has affected you as a person and what you wished you got as a child but never did. Then let that inform the way you deal with children, not just your own children but every child that you interact with.

I hope you enjoy reading each page of this issue as I have.

Sincerely,

Wachira Fridah Deputy Editor

COVER PHOTO FRANCIS MUCHIRI AHADI PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL - KROAD

CONVOMAGAZINE

CONTENTS

23

13

06

EDITOR'S NOTE

09 13

SAFE SPACES FOR CHILDREN

17 19

IDENTITY TUSSLE

40

NUTRITION

GIRL CHILD; THE HURDLES

CBC - ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW

39

19

37

62

65

52

THE PROMISES OF GOD

FASHION PASSION

47

44

52

BEAUTY

65

THEME PARKS IN DOHAR, QATAR

CONTENTS | ISSUE 06

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THE LEADERSHIP TEST

FE AT U R E STOR Y

Future is Today!

Every child has the right to live free from violence, exploitation and abuse. The places children should be most protected are their homes, schools and online. Protecting children is everyone's responsibility. Of all the things children need to grow up at their potential, one of the most urgent is safety from harm. So the question that beg for answers is, Are our institutions and facilities safe for our children?

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FE AT U R E STOR Y

Our schools must be a place of hope and opportunity, where pupils are safe to learn and develop the skills and experiences they need to thrive in life. Teachers and school directors as duty bearers are fully responsible for ensuring a voice and protection from all forms of violence for every child in the classroom.

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n opening the Child Welfare Society of Kenya (CWSK) website, what you see is photos of missing children, (under missing children database) and a text, Are you my family? These children ask!

CWSK offers an effective rapid response for children in need of urgent rescue, shelter, health and other services. They rescue children immediately following cases of abuse or exposure to detrimental risk once they are reported. CWSK’s vision is to see all the children and young person’s leading a happy, fulfilling and fruitful life.

One of the major issue affecting families is loss of their children under unexplained circumstances.

Some are found alive, others dead and some never and are still missing. Another key issue is abuse to children either at their homes or at facilities meant to care and protect the them.

This brings us to the question whether our homes, schools, public amenities and churches are indeed safe for our children. Safe spaces are places where children can learn, share, recharge and grow so they are ready to learn.

Safe spaces are an effective way to help children to be in a relaxed state that is optimal for learning.

These spaces also support social-emotional learning because they provide children with tools to manage and regulate their emotions.

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This background prompted me to ask Mr. Francis, Principal Ahadi Presbyterian School Kenyatta Road why school need to be a safe space and how he has ensured that his school is safe for all the children at the school. He told me his key focus is ensuring that he has programs that ensure safety of over 850 pupils at the school that addresses the following three key areas alongside their education; Protection from risk; Promotion of psychosocial well-being; and Strengthening of community child protection capacities.

Safe and free from violence & bullying Safe space for disciplining Internet is a major concern for parents as it exposes children to myriad of vices. “Internet is necessary evil,” Mr. Francis told me, “So many people are earning from it and digital literacy is a core competency in the new competency based curriculum”. “What parents need to do is ensure there is control when children access internet, he insisted.

Most parents have left their children to house helps and the internet. “The house helps job is to cook, organize the house ensuring it is neat as well as feed the children, they do not have an obligation to teach your children morals”, Mr. Francis told me. It is thus the parent duty to secure their children from bad exposure by controlling what they are viewing or reading online. “Parents need to be very intentional when it comes to raising their children”, he added.

If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck If Jesus was to come back, he would be very unhappy about the way we treat the children to a huge extent. When his disciples were chasing the children away from him, the same attitude they had about children is very evident even today.

Mr. Francis says, we still feel children do not deserve a space on the table and they are looked at as a disturbance”.

“Jesus would not be pleased, we have house helps abusing children, pedophiles sodomizing children and parents who are unwilling to control their children and misleading them”. He quotes a scripture in Matthew 18:6 that shows how children were pivotal in Jesus ministry which says; “If anyone causes one of these little ones— those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.”

We then are all obliged to ensure safety of our children because they are a reflection of who we are as a society. If we neglect them, we too shall be neglected by them when we are old enough and unable to take care of ourselves.

>>>>

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FEATURE STORY

Mr. Francis Muchiri, is a principal of Ahadi Presbyterian School located in Kenyatta Road, Juja. In this section, he shared with me deep concerns for the boy child and what we can do. He affirmed to me the boy child have been disfranchised but it is not too late, the situation can be salvaged.

WHAT ABOUT THE BOY CHILD? Girls do not want to get married. Boys do not want to marry.

Reinventing how we raise our boys and girls is very important.

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n Kenya, there is growing feelings that, after many years of focusing on girls, the boys have been forgotten and left behind. That has been evidenced by widespread alcoholism and increased school dropouts, leading to a re-think on whether the advancement by girls was at the expense of boys. Although we appreciate, the efforts made at the girl-child empowerment after years of gender imbalance and inequity, in the past decades, there has been much discussion of the boychild, many people even alleging that he has been neglected.

The National Gender and Equality Commission conducted a Report of emerging perception on the exclusion of the boy child in the gender equality agenda and brought into light some fascinating findings.

The perceptions and public debate in Kenya suggest that the boy child is left behind in the gender equality agenda.

The general perception is that the boy child faces challenges that tend to hinder his enjoyment of opportunities for progress especially in education. The truth is, if there are no interventions, the boy child will lag behind and become unable to fulfil his obligations as he grows up especially in education.

I sought to seek answers on what is hindering the wellbeing of a boy child and what we can do to avert it from Mr. Francis Muchiri, who is a principal of Ahadi Presbyterian School located in Kenyatta Road, Juja.

Working with over 850 pupils, he becomes an authority to speak on matters touching boys and girls.

Today, the boy child is likely to drop out of school or choose not to continue with school which leads him to substance use due to lack of mentorship and role models who can guide them in life. Many a times the phrase, “he’s a man, he can take care of himself” is used to denote the boy need to be independent. This is so especially when thing go wrong on the side of the boy child.

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Reports of boys engaging in substance abuse, joining terror groups, involvement in sexual behaviors that leads to impregnation of girls among other vices are reported. More often than not, parents wonder how their innocent boys came to engage in such dangerous behaviors but what do we expect of them if all we do is concentrate on the girl and forget the boys.

Mr. Francis reiterates that both genders are equally important for the success of the society, country, and world at large.

Boys need counseling and guidance through their passage to manhood just like girls. Conversations of how we can support the boy child should start at the family level. If we allow the boy-child to continue struggling with poverty, unemployment, and dependency, it will expose our families and the nation to suffer economically and lose the contribution of a major part of the society.

It is therefore important for all of us to join hands and support future wives and husbands.

We should empower the boy child to strengthen the future fathers. It is sad that the boy child has to choose his own future and chart his course without much guidance.

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“Father figures are vital in the boy’s growth and development. They need role models.

Children are 70% visual and 30% audio. Our behavior around them is important and we need to be role models. The father has to be deliberate, present and walk with the boy child. Fathers need to be intentional and be willing to engage the young men and expose them to their areas of interest. We should not just show up when our children are grown and are successful”, Mr. Francis tells me.

Who dropped the ball? “the society,” Mr. Francis tells me. “Girls do not want to get married. Boys do not want to marry.

Reinventing how we raise our boys and girls is very important. Emerging issues calls for new strategies to cope with the challenges. This social failure need to be fixed progressively, the new curriculum, CBC for example has allowed parental involvement in the children’s learning. Key areas of study like ethics have been included in the new curriculum”, he explains.

Fathers need to be intentional and be willing to engage the young men and expose them to their areas of interest.

We should not just show up when our children are grown and are successful A society wellbeing is dependent on all of its members functioning properly. If any group of the society is malfunctioning, the result will be that the development of the society will be impaired. This is as a result of large number of dependents, low skill development and little business initiatives.

There will be increase in failed marriages, dysfunctional families will be on the rise as well and high incidences of gender based violence will be witnessed. So, programs and interventions that seek to empower the women and girls must engage men and boys as well.

A Bumpy Road to Girl Child Empowerment Each girl faces complex challenges in her journey to learn, grow, and lead. Girls should always be skilled, educated and confident enough to be able to meet their survival needs. However, she still faces obstacles that continue to limit her.

Faith Shares with us two complex issues that continue to hinder girl child empowerment making the road bumpy.

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n every County in Kenya, I am almost 100% sure that there is a project geared towards empowering the girl child. Have we hit the nail on the head or do we have a long way to go? Are our girls ready to face the world, have we given them all it takes to stand up for themselves?

I appreciate every effort that has been made especially by the government to help the girls.

However, I believe there is much more that can be done to reduce the challenges affecting our girls. In this article, we will look at two major issues affecting the girl child despite endless efforts towards enabling them to conquer in our society; 1.Sexual Abuse/ Harassment 2.Teenage Pregnancies.

152,000 Number of teenage pregnancies recorded in 2021 during the pandemic

Teen Pregnancies The rate at which cases of teenage pregnancies are increasing is alarming and remains to be a key concern. Research by the Ministry has shown that in 2021 when Corona Virus was at its peak, there recorded 152,000 teenage pregnancies. What then has led to an increase of the teenage pregnancies and what then we do to bridge it?

Inadequate Sexual and reproductive education has increased the number of teenage pregnancies. Most of the affected areas were areas that do not have access to information or even schools. An interesting fact is that most girls get pregnant without their knowledge and this is simply because they were not warned at an early age about the consequences.

To counter this, Parents need to have open talks with their children. How often do parents sit down with their children and have in depth conversations about life and the repercussions they will encounter when they engage with the opposite sex.

It is the duty of the parent to instill in their child strong moral values that will allow them to say No to anything that will compromise their education.

Sexual abuse has been identified as one of the causes of teenage pregnancies. Increase safety at home and finding ways to enforce sexual harassment laws will help curb the pregnancies. Most of these cases are actually happening at homes when the parents or guardians are absent, or a child was sent to the shop alone. Leaving children alone at home with gardeners or house boys is not advisable at all. The fact that they have food to eat and everything they need doesn’t mean they are safe. Parents need to control who can access their homes and their children.

Having said all this, the ball rolls back to the society i.e. (The parents, teachers, government) to create a safe environment not only for the girl child but also the boy child so that we can bring up a holistic child.

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One out of three women between the ages of 18 and 34 experiences sexual harassment at work. Sexual harassment and abuse is an experience most girls withstand from a very young age. It does not have to like this.

Sexual Harassment Sexual Harassment is more than physical abuse. It is evident that the government has done enough in regards to bringing up laws that are against sexual harassment.

The challenge however, comes in the enforcement. Are this laws being followed?

What are the consequences for a person who has been found abusing a young girl? Are girls given attention when they report such a case to their parents, teacher or an adult they trust?

It is sad that someone can report a sexual harassment case to the police and it takes three years for the court to decide if the offender was guilty or not.

Every time I hear a case about sexual abuse, I always wonder whose fault it is. Is there any excuse that should be given to abuse a lady no matter the circumstances surrounding the events? What warrants a man to sexually abuse a young girl that he has met on her way back home from school or that Father forcing his way to his own daughter. Sexual abuse has been noted as one of the major causes of teenage pregnancies in Kenya.

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The fact is sexual abuse leaves the girl with trauma that she has to live with for the rest of her life even if she does not get pregnant from that.

The danger lies when she doesn’t talk to anyone and does not go to counselling sessions. This nightmare follows into her adulthood life when she discovers she has phobia being around men or she detests men or she cannot even hold her marriage together because of what she went through.

It takes a lot of energy and time for her to completely heal from this.

Parents are encouraged to constantly talk with their children concerning this issues, sit down with them after school and have in depth conversations and this way, they eventually learn to trust their parents and open up to them.

The danger lies when she doesn’t talk to anyone and does not go to counselling sessions.

The government on the other hand has to come up with ways to enforce the law, because the more lenient they are on sexual offenders, the more the cases of sexual harassments.

The girl child needs to have a safe space in the society where they can freely talk about sexual abuse and get the relevant help. A safe school, a safe church, a safe country will contribute to the safety of our girls.

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Life’s most important things are found in families and the Christian community.

CLMC are committed to support the church in Africa through provision of relevant resources for nurturing generations for Christ.

Nurturing generations For Christ He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.....Kids matter to Jesus! The Bible says God loves the little children, kids are a gift from God. That's why kids ministry matters so much. CLMC Director, Shared with us how to nurture our children for Christ.

DIRECTOR - CLMC

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he kingdom of God is for those who have converted and become like children. God is very generational and a generation starts with children.

When I look at the children I see the future, they are the messengers that we will send to that future I have an immense love for the children, an inborn compassion for them. When I look at a child, I see a nation, a family and a church.

The main foundational elements you need to pay attention as your child grow s up, are their soul, spirit and body. As a parent you need to be the environment for that child. Children do what their parents do, that is what they become. A child is born on empty brain, we fill up this brain by ensuring we are the right environment.

You cannot be a right environment if you are not cultured by the word for God. The bible says that; " All your children shall be taught by the LORD, and great shall be the peace of your children".

What governs your talk as a parent is what your child will pick, if you do not say sorry or thank you, your child will not say, thank you or sorry as well.

The most important qualities you need to nurture in your children is ability to pick the right values.

What will make a child remain in the cutting edge is the things we model in them, the values. Values are not necessarily taught, they are modeled. We pass to our children values. For example, I need to be honest, I need to be diligent in my work place.

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These value allows them to function successfully.

Such values spice up that which they know. If we instill the right values and are incorporated in all that they learn, the children will be able to compete in the global arena successfully. Train up the child in the way they should go, this helps them narrow their path and focus them on the right things.

Children's spirit is not a child. With this in mind, there are some practical things that we can do to nurture our children, The word of God is an anchor and it forms our values. We need to find ways of teaching our children the word of God. But how do you teach the little one the word of God? First, we need to realize the cognitive development in children. Little children love coloring , singing and playing. While teaching the word of God to children you need to incorporate these activities , for example, in the bible stories.

As a parent, do not feel frustrated when you teach your children and they fail to understand.

Break the lessons and go down to their level and they will understand. Teach the truths in a very simple way.

At CLMC, we offer materials for teaching children from Zero years.. We have books suitable for children with autism. Parents need to know the importance of discipling children as young as they are. CLMC have materials for parents and churches. More importantly, we train children workers helping them become more effective in discipling and handling children.

AUTHOR & COACH

Identity: A Tussle Toward Maturity The identity you choose for yourself dictates your thoughts, decisions, and behavior. understanding your identity can help you let go of negative beliefs about yourself and to make positive changes in your life. Ruth Mueni, an Author and a Coach helps us understand identity's role in becoming resourceful members of the society.

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here are things that the youth tussle with even as they find their way to maturity. The issues cut across and they are diverse. I shall list a few even as we look forward to the solutions around the same Identity Crises - Esteem Issues Confused Sexuality Vs Winning relationships Family dynamics Mental Health and Stigma among the youth Vision Board and Career Road Map What is Identity?

The meaning of identity is the fact of who or what a person or thing is. Our unique self and values.

It is usually shaped by our experiences and interactions with others, and it is this identity that helps guide our actions, beliefs, and behaviors as we grow.

When we know our identity you become aware of your purpose. Its like when one identifies where they are going it becomes easy to journey on unlike when one is not clear who they are or what is expected of them.

To a youth then if you know what is expected of you then you can work towards your best.

Identity therefore revolves around what’s my name, where do I come from, who is my family, what values and beliefs have I been exposed to since my childhood. What’s important to me,

where are my interests and hobbies, what do I want to be. What’s my spiritual views about who I am?

Identity crisis is a temporary instability as you mature into adulthood and a stage of growing up and it allows a young person to discover their role in society and their authentic self. It’s important to know that you are not the only one who is going through this period of identity crisis. It’s a journey of life of self-discovery and it’s important to be in tune with your true self, your foundation values as these are the building blocks of getting into other roles and friendships in life. To the youth we advocate that one makes good friendships and learn from your mistakes, be willing to be guided and corrected by those who wish you well.

Not every teen will go through identity crisis and most teens are able to go through the adolescent period and form their own individual identity.

Other factors that contribute to the crisis include, age, gender, sexuality, race, disability.

They range from: Peer pressure –competition – This can be positive or negative depending on how one is stable to influence or be influenced. A strong willed child will always influence others to do things their way Low self-Esteem- Due to violence and others or even the environment one comes from. An exposed teen seems to have courage unlike one who has not faced exposure. Our family backgrounds do contribute a lot to esteem whether high or low. Esteemed is worked on to be attained. Past experiences can affect one’s esteem negatively or positively.

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1

Key Lessons to the youth

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We are the master Key to our future, We should Love God and what He loves.

Life is about seasons utilize each opportunity at its ideal time

The sub keys to the major are: Focus Commitment Consistency Consistency

Identity crisis is a temporary instability as you mature into adulthood and a stage of growing up and it allows a young person to discover their role in society and their authentic self. It’s important to know that you are not the only one who is going through this period of identity crisis.

Emotional instability. This is key and can be contributed to our feelings as well as our experiences as well. If someone messes us up, then our emotions also are affected as youth. Youth ought to find somewhere to vent as well as confide.

This will help them remain stable emotionally. Parents ought not to push their own to confide in them if they don’t feel comfortable. Good thing so long as they have a place to vent as well as get guided then that is the best approach.

Social Media-How express, I have found majority of youth communicate so loud using social media than human intervention. Expressing their feelings through status, it has changed from out of the urban dance of the heart the mouth speaks to the status in the gadget. I advocate for youth to use gadgets in a great way that only adds value to them selves Relationships, Sexual orientation - The relations we keep can make or break us.

Therefore, it’s essential to make the right choices when it comes to associations.

Inclining to those who will challenge us as well as encourage us to exploit our potential in a big way Environment. I have seen that environment do contribute a lot to the issues youth do tussle with. If the environment is conducive to thrive as we grow. One thing I have identified is that a vision at times may not be affected by environment because Irrespective of one’s background; 1.There are those who do well 2.Those who do poorly in life 3.Those who don’t care at all

EFFECTS of THE TUSSLES Stagnation on Career-Depending on the friends if they do not value education they can discourage us from perusing our career. This is same with our families that if they don’t value education we may not get the support we need to excel and identify career path. Mostly I have seen many youth work with selfdrive to achieve their dream in career irrespective of their backgrounds Drugs and Alcohol-This looks like a quick fix to issues or even wanting to fit in a certain class. This being a temporal solution that may not necessarily be the solution has seen many youths go astray. I always say give your body the food that will love your body love you right back. So as you consume the alcohol, do you do that because you saw it being the in thing or what value does it add? With these questions lingering in our minds then we can have a better way of addressing some of these choices we make.

Early pregnancy and Marriage-These are some of the situations majority of youth find themselves and start blaming others. It is a consequences of a choice that we ought to take full responsibility around it. However, the circumstances leading to this are diverse and my suggestion s when you find yourself in such just dusty self and continue with the journey, Solution for early pregnancies is not marriage.

Lack of purpose-Where there is no vision people perish. Therefore, identifying who we are and why we exist is a great breakthrough to have focus and commit to perusing our dreams.

It’s all about the choices we make and the direction we wish to peruse that determines our future as the youth.

Our biggest role then as parents will be playing our best role , parenting irrespective of how our children turn out for there is a great reward/harvest at last.

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To our parents, we play a great role in shaping the destiny of our children to become whom God intended of them.

Modelling them to become all what they can be and not pushing them to what we want rather support their dreams.

In addition, we may need to understand that we need not put pressure on children to disclose information to us. We may think we are so free with them until we get to realization that they also have boundaries, matters that they need to confide. We may think we have an open door policy to think our children will always be free to us only to realize, to some extent. this is not possible.

Our biggest role then as parents will be playing our best role , parenting irrespective of how our children turn out for there is a great reward/harvest at last.

Bottom line as parents we need to connect to our teens so as to have the moral authority to correct them. Understanding their love languages and acting as it is will be a great plus for us in shaping the destiny of these dear ones.

There are key principles I wish us to check on as below; 1.Our don’ts to the teens 2.We ought not to compare them to others they feel betrayed.

3.When we shame them publicly or privately in the presence of my friends they feel humiliated.

4.When we don't believe them they feel insecure and inadequate.

5.When we dismiss their feelings and their ideas they feel rejected.

In conclusion to out teens irrespective of all said and done let’s remember we shall take total responsibility of our life. The choices we make we should be ready to live the consequences.

So then even for us we have the responsibility to play our best roles as sons and daughters to our parents irrespective of how our parents are for there is a reward in that. Ephesians 6:2, "Honor your father and mother"—which is the first commandment with a promise".

Understand The Competency Based Curriculum

What You Ought to Know About Competency Based Curriculum (CBC)

By Mercy Cherono

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NESCO IBE recommends curriculum review every five years and that is why our government had to slowly shift from 8-4-4 curriculum to CBC. Moreover, there was a need for 21st century learning because the 21st century learners possess characteristics that should be attended to namely: computer literate, inquisitive, critical thinkers, communicators, self-directed and global among other features of the 21st century learners.

CBC focuses more on a learner’s ability which is clearly depicted in the curriculum structure and subjects.

CORE COMPETENCIES Communication and collaboration CBC advocates for using indicators to communicate and learners can be able to write, answer questions and also have discussions.

Critical thinking and problem solving CBC ensures that learners can reason and argue.

Citizenship Learners should exhibit love for the country and should be able to accommodate others.

Imagination and creativity.

Learners should be able to think and be creative enough to even discover new things.

Digital literacy Learners are able to use internet, play digital games and operate digital gadgets.

Learning to learn Learners should be able to apply information given to them.

Self-efficacy Learners should be able to belief in themselves about their capabilities to perform tasks or assignments that can change and transform their lives for instance they should be able undertake difficult tasks. Also, learners should set themselves challenges, goals and maintain a strong commitment to them.

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The above competencies are learnt through the various learning areas.

They are geared towards helping learning become engaged, empowered and ethical citizens and to thrive in a fast paced 21st century world, solving real life issues.

The acquisition and development of competencies calls for the adoption of different teaching methods, such as: projects, study visits, case studies, problem solving and role play among others.

Learners can also develop and apply the competencies through opportunities presented in Pertinent and Contemporary Issues (PCIs) and Community Service learning (CSL).

CBC life values At the end of the learning period the learner should have been molded to have the following values: Love Responsibility Respect Unity Peace Patriotism Integrity

Structure of CBC The CBC education systems is sectioned into three different structures namely:

Early Years Education CBC system describes early Education to learners in pre-primary Education and lower primary Education. Pre-primary Education takes up to 2years of PP1 and PP2 followed by a graduation to the next level.

The lower primary Education includes grade 1, grade 2 and grade 3 a total of 3. Graduation follows the completion of the level ushering the learners into the next middle school.

Middle School Education CBC has sectioned the upper primary education and lower secondary education as middle school. The lower primary Education has grade 4, 5 and grade 6 covering three years and graduates them into next level.

Simultaneously, the lower secondary education consists of grade 7, grade 8 and grade 9, 3years. They then graduate to senior school.

Senior School Education Most learners are in between the age of 15-17 years old. The class takes up to 3 years for Grade 10, Grade 11 and Grade 12. At senior school, learner already specializes in studies in line with their areas of interest or talent.

The learners then graduate into higher Education such as university education, further their education and welcome them into work. The higher Education can last depending on the course selected. The least number of years can be at least 3.

CBC curriculum in Kenya has adopted the education system of 26-6-3 format that replaced the 8-4-4.

Assessment Assessment is a process of ascertaining whether the learners have achieved the desired knowledge, skills or attitudes. In CBC there are several assessment tools like: observation schedules, questionnaires’, projects, rubrics, journal, learners’ profile and portfolio among others. Although the major tool of assessment in CBC is observation.

CBC carries out assessment although in the 8-4-4 curriculum it was exam centered.

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Unique Features about CBC ·Class are now called Grade. ·Subject areas are now reoffered to as learning areas. ·ECD has two levels only (pre-primary 1 and 2) that is PP1 and PP2. ·Topics/ sub-topics are now known as strands/ sub-strands. ·Learning outcomes is the new term that replaces learning objectives. ·Learning resources are used instead of teaching aids.

In conclusion, Competency Based Curriculum’s mission is nurturing of every learners potential by identifying the potential, by nurturing the potential of every learner and ensure all learners are successful.

CBC aims to be a more studentbased system, with more focus on the ability of the student to self-learn and develop relevant skills.

Parenting is raising children to be the best they can be. Being a mother is completely different: it means providing that indescribable feeling of comfort, no matter the age of the child. Being a mother also means being relied upon to know how to do things you may not know how to do and know how to make things you may never have heard of. Despite all these, Liz shares with us the joy of being a mother.

Liz is a mother of 3, she tell us that being a mother is rewarding to say the least. She confesses that it’s a tough journey and it is also the most fulfilling when you watch a child grow.

being a mum

B

eing a mother, either for a mom or a dad is a whole life changing experience. I can say it is a lifetime commitment between a child and the parent. It is the most wonderful feeling and there can never be enough words to express the feeling when one finally becomes a mother, let’s say for many. You get to witness a lot of firsts. You have the privilege of getting to introduce a lot of stuff to the little humans.

Motherhood teaches one to be responsible for keeping another human alive, by taking care of them, being there for them, and providing for their needs. It’s a tough journey and it is also the most fulfilling when you watch a child grow from those dependent days on you to when they are fully independent.

Being a mother for the past 11 years has not been a walk in the park but I am a happy mom of my three children. Being a mother is rewarding to say the least; the children reward me each and every day with all the love, care and warmth; being their only possession. To them, they see a service provider mostly.

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Being an Aunt

The Joy of parenting As a mother, my services are always demanded by them and much they expect from me. It requires me to be on my toes as I balance my motherhood role and taking care of myself. And as much there are challenges and sacrifices, there is unlimited joy and satisfaction that comes from being a mother.

As a mother there are those moments you question your parenting skills and worried if you are doing it right and worried even about silly stuff. But at the end of day, you are the best parent to that child. Being a mother makes you realize you are a safe haven for someone. Your words and arms are there to calm and comfort, may it be a hurt knee or a broken heart. The little hearts love and trust you unconditionally, whether you are perfect or not. The little eyes see the best version of human being in their lives.

I am happy and proud mother to my three angels. Arnel, Adriel and Adelyn, mommy loves you! You are my everything and my life, I thank God for you every day.

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Being an auntie is so beautiful. I have quite a number of nieces and nephews, loving them all the same way is hard. The challenge is finding a way to love them equally. Sometime disciplining is hard as well. They are so lovely and innocent that punishing them seems so bad. It’s not an easy task until they do something wrong and you want punish and still be friends. I also discovered that these children will always come to your rescue when punished by their parents for comfort. You should therefore learn how to handle them since you will not be there always.

Let them know what they did was wrong while still giving them comforts. They should own their mistake.

I always get them gifts. Most of the people will think that getting them gifts is enough to win them. There is more to it than just gifts. Always try and find where their interests are even when getting them gifts. This makes them want to have you around because you understand them.

In order for you to win their trust spend time with them teach them something new, for example, a game or a song and they never forget it. It makes them love you more and trust you more. When you have not seen them for a month or two they want to talk to you via a phone call or mostly a video call to see how you fairing.

This will melt your heart.

Something else you should normalize not doing is making promises because they will always remember. I once told my nephew I will see him on one weekend and was held up at work he told his mom I lied and was so disappointed. It’s that simple, keep all the promises you make.

LIFE You might feel numb at first, or find it hard to believe it's true. You might go through anger, sadness, confusion and depression. Getting through a miscarriage can be very difficult as Sarah tells us in this short personal experience.

God of Chances

How I found hope after several Miscarriages

By Sarah Ombati

I

had just received an exciting job opportunity with a multinational company a few months ago and here came the good news that we were expecting our second born. How timely! it was just an extant moment specifically to me after being out of the job market close to 2 years. I felt 2020 was my year of restoration. so one evening while attending my normal duties at work on night duty, I felt a sharp abdominal pain. I decided to sit and lie on my desk and in a little while I was deep asleep only to wake up with my lab coat soaked red. immediately I sensed something was amiss and called my husband. He picked me and took me to the hospital. on doing the scan here came the radiographer's report "Sorry Sarah, you have an blighted ovum" whatever that was, it made no sense as long as I didn't have my baby. Fortunately, I met a gynecologist who counseled me on the matter and said it's common. I never took it lightly until I met several friends who experienced the same.

I picked up my pieces and offered myself another chance. In 5 months, I was expecting again. As usual every woman knows once you are expectant getting a baby in the end is guaranteed but that was not the case. At 8weeks I lost the pregnancy again and then after one year of rest I lost the third pregnancy at 5weeks.

Ask me all the questions, ‘Do I pray/Do I pray right? Am I being punished for my sins or my parents’ sins? Is it a spiritual battle? can you give yourself a break? Is there something you are not doing right? can you try miti shamba(herbs)? Have you tried this gynae? .... etc. Do you still want to keep trying ? I only have an answer for the last question. Yes, I will keep trying.

when I had the third miscarriage I went to one of the best renown hospitals and the gynae said I had to be cleaned. "kuoshwa for the third time?" I felt like vanishing into the thin air. I went to the reception to digest the information and all the negative thoughts were flying in my mind. A certain lady in her mid-forties startled me from my deep thoughts. She was also waiting to see the gynae. She asked me what my problem was and I was there explaining while tearing. The lady told me to wipe my tears and listen to her. This was the conversation: “How old are you? Do you have another baby? You had a miscarriage? It's hurting right? let me say this, I have been married for close to 20years, I have never been pregnant even once. I don't need to carry pregnancy to full time I just want to feel even if it's a day and it miscarries.

I have tried and am still trying. So shed off that sorrowful mood and instead give yourself another chance. There's hope, if I am hopeful what makes you feel you have reached your dead end? Forget your past and thank God that you can even afford good healthcare. ," Those words dug deep into my spirit. Yes, no one prepares any lady for miscarriage, very few HRs understand what you are going through. your immediate family may not understand why that is happening or why you don't have another baby. why the delay.

I want to summarize my story by saying this as long as you are alive, there’s hope for that dream, the future is promising and as we continue to try every day is a win. Keeping that hope is a win. Shedding off negative energy is a win, Being successful in other areas apart from being a parent is a win. let's keep winning. God is still doing a new thing in our lives even moments we can't feel.

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....as long as you are alive, there’s hope for that dream, the future is promising and as we continue to try, every day is a win. Keeping that hope is a win. Shedding off negative energy is a win, Being successful in other areas apart from being a parent is a win.

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SHE MAT T E R S

WOMAN? Learn to Rest When I do believe, I have complete rest in Him. Living by faith is not a struggle—it’s rest. And you can enter into God’s rest in every area of your life.

R

By: Lydia Arunga

est is one of the greatest gifts God gave to mankind. Rest is synonymous to peace.

Naturally, we associate rest with sleep. When we are so tired, we think of sleeping and resting. After that, we are refreshed and energized to move out again. We feel good and happy. This is not God's rest I want to talk about here. You ask what is God's rest? God 's rest is deep and profound. It supersedes the rest derived when we are physically tired or sleepy or worn out from each day's labor; when we have worked so hard.

The Hebrew word for rest is nuach - to rest, to be quiet. Sometimes, it is synonymous to shabat- to cease or to rest.

The Greek word for rest is anapausis meaning cessation, refreshment. Christ's rest is not a rest from work, but in work, not the rest of activity, but of the harmonious working of all the faculties and affections, of will, heart, imagination, conscience- because each has found in God the ideal sphere of its satisfaction and development When we try to do everything in our own strength and leave God out of the equation, we just get worn-out and frustrated by our mistakes and failures. But when we lean on God, we actually enter into His rest and can enjoy our lives, no matter what our circumstances may be. Hebrews 4:9-11 says, So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, for whoever has entered God’s rest has also rested from his works as God did from his. Let us therefore strive to enter that rest…

Now the rest of God is not a rest from work— it’s a rest in work. It’s partnering with God to do what He is calling you to do by His grace, and leaving the part you can’t do in His hands, trusting Him to do it. Hebrews 4:3 says it this way: For we who have believed enter that rest… So we start by believing.

Trying vs. Trusting When I’m trying to believe, I haven’t entered God’s rest. But when I do believe, I have complete rest in Him. Living by faith is not a struggle—it’s rest. And you can enter into God’s rest in every area of your life.

I’ve discovered that the stress in my life is caused by the way I approach my circumstances and the attitude I have toward them. It was a turning point for me when I realized that the world will probably never change, but I could learn how to change the way I go about handling situations that are challenging.

One key to this is knowing that as believers in Christ, we are partners with God—we have a part, and He has a part in everything He calls us to do. When we don’t do the part we can do and we try to do His part instead, that’s when we live stressed-out with worry, fear, anxiety, frustration, no peace and no joy.

The reason this happens sometimes is because we think God needs our help. We meditate on the problem—rolling it over and over in our mind, worrying, trying to figure out how things should work out. It’s like we’re telling God, “I kind of think You need my help, and I’m not sure You can take care of this situation, Lord.”

We need to realize that worrying is useless! It’s like sitting in a rocking chair, rocking all day, wearing yourself out and getting nowhere.

Trusting God means we give up worrying, reasoning, and anxiety and we enter into His rest with simple childlike faith—we live by grace through faith!

When We Possess God's Rest: It eases the pain we bear daily because we enter into God's rest It refreshes and relaxes our minds and bodies We are able to lay down in peace, instead of torn by inner struggles We are able to operate our lives in peace and achieve our vision and goals Our minds are calm and restful, not rattled by anything because We have God's rest We have God's peace It’s so amazing to know that God is always with us, giving us His grace for everything we need to do in life. Trust God’s unconditional love for you today. Do what you can do and give Him everything else.

And when you find yourself getting frustrated or feeling overwhelmed, like you just can’t do it anymore, remember to stop, get your focus back on Him and enter into His rest once again.

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The family, church, society and even the government ought to work collaboratively to raise a child. In the present busy society, we need to understand that children need healthy spaces for them to exercise their abilities.

This will help them discover their innate distinctive abilities early.

We need to listen to our children, understand them and protect them from abuse and misuse arising from the social platforms. We should not let our children grow like trees by simply providing food shelter and clothing.

Nurturing them is very essential.

A parent’s job is to allow the child to dream; inspire them that they can become what they focus on. Keep exposing them to various life and career pathways such as being administrators, investigators, carers, artists or even adventurers among others that will help them understand what suits them well.

A Role to Play Adults not only need to show children that there are expectations for behavior in the home and in society, and that our choices affect how other people feel about us but also they need to contribute to children's emerging social competence by teaching them skills and nurture them to achieve their purposes in life. Maxwell shares with us the role to play.

M

eet Bettina and Pendo, two little darlings with great aspiration.

Bettina and Pendo are grade 4 children.

Despite being born to different families, the two have become dear to each other and their friendship is worth emulating. This is a true definition of childhood friends. They are talented and gifted in many areas: singing, sewing, memorizing scriptures and even acrobatic skills. They even have a YouTube channel that is meant to inspire the world.

The saddening situation is such gifts for many children like them has been suppressed through overemphasizing on exam based education while neglecting inbuilt capabilities; the talents.

As adults, we all have a role to play in raising a generation that would positively impact the world.

Such gifts for many children like them has been suppressed through overemphasizing on exam based education while neglecting inbuilt capabilities; the talents.

At a young age, children will mention various things they would want to become such as doctors, lawyers, musicians, teachers, journalists among others. It is good to know that this are desires and it is way too early to tell exactly what they will become; because desires can change along the way. For example, Bettina and Pendo would love to be Musicians, Physicians, or lawyers.

Creating an environment where they will continually discover themselves will help them narrow down to single skills they would love to develop.

The onus is on us, those who are ahead of them; who are we sending in the coming generation? How equipped are they?

The Kenyan Child Is Truly a Treasure

BY BETTY KARIUKI LAWYER

M

ost people are fond of their childhood when they could run around without a care in the world. A time when all that mattered was being around loving parents, relatives and an accommodating society. But what most people often fail to recognize is that these are the moments in their lives that continue to shape their perceptions about life, including their careers and relationships with friends and colleagues.

As the Supreme law of the land, the Constitution under Article 53 expressly provides for the rights of a Kenyan child to include: The Right to basic nutrition, shelter and health care The Right to free and compulsory basic education The Right to Protection from abuse, neglect, violence and exploitative labour.

The right to parental care and protection from both parents.

Right to a name and nationality from birth.

As the saying goes, we are what we eat. Similarly, adulthood is a reflection of the quality of a person’s childhood, the love they received or lacked, the quality of the environment they grew up in and the values inculcated to them.

In Kenya, and many African countries, creating safe spaces for children to grow and learn is a role impliedly taken up by the society. A child belongs to the society whose norms and ideas emanate from laws and rules set. We cannot distance the role of these laws in shaping the conversations, approaches and views about the Kenyan child.

Kenyan law recognizes a child as a person below 18 years and thus they can benefit from their parental support in that capacity. The newly enacted Act, the Children Act 2021 which repeals the Children Act 2001, evidences the progressive steps Kenya is making to address problems facing the Kenyan child. The Kenyan Constitution, 2010, the Early Childhood Education Act of 2021 and the Basic Education Act of 2013 further address the needs of children.

Article 53 of the Constitution, 2010 provides for children rights.

The Children Act, 2021 espouses key highlights such as kinship adoption, which is vital in protecting children from child trafficking.

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Why the future is bold for our children ......But we must be wake to a society that is turning so cruel to our children and robbing them of their childhood.

Some of the improvements espoused under the Children Act 2021 include: The introduction of the children welfare fund.

Free legal aid for children in conflict with the law.

The introduction of kinship adoption.

This is an essential provision that will contribute to protection of children from domestic and international child trafficking.

Establishment of child protection units (CPU’s).

Community based support systems for children who commit minor offenses instead of the criminal justice system.

Children living with disability will now be provided with medical treatment, special care, education and training.

“Let us not fail Kenya. Let us not drain our future. Let us not fail our children, our treasures.”

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Needless to say, the Kenyan child is truly a treasure, recognized as a growing mind in need of nurturing. In an ideal world, the Kenyan child is with an abundance of incentives for growth and far-reaching opportunities worth every second. A child receiving help from the society as a matter of practice, and even further, from those mandated under the supporting legal provisions.

As Kenya celebrates the Children Act, 2021 it is also essential to remember that children are the future and that everyone has a role to play in creating safe environments for our children. As we enjoy the glory and admirable intention of our laws to create such spaces and resources, we must never tire in contributing to causes that enrich our legacies.

That said, we must remain awake to the changing nature of our society. A society turning so cruel to our children and robbing them of their childhood. Child exploitation, child pregnancies, violence, neglect and defilement are a few examples of the dark cloud that continues to hover over the lives of the Kenyan Child. However, as a people there is no big mountain we cannot level, we only need to be intentional. Let us not fail Kenya. Let us not drain our future. Let us not fail our children, our treasures.

It is a Wrap!

Above NJIIRI SCHOOL, 4K, CLASS OF 2022.

4k Class of 2022 are not your usual boys; they understand the value of discipline and more importantly the value of those whom their tutorship is entrusted. They shared with Convo, the lessons learnt from their teachers and told us that, apart from their teachers teaching them to become productive members of the society, they have taught them discipline.

A

wise man once said, the mediocre teacher tells, good teacher explains, the superior teacher demonstrates and the great teacher inspires.

The experiences we have had with our teachers in high school have been life changing and their impact on our lives will be forever felt.

Our interactions with teachers has had many ups and down, in between were several lessons. Some of these lessons were imparted either with words or actions which were not always pleasant; other than the syllabus coverage, the teachers have also imparted several life lessons on us. One of the greatest wisdom imparted to us was by our mathematics teacher, Mr. Ezekiel Karia, our class teacher as well, who once told us that failure will never lack an excuse or a reason TO JUSTIFY it, it is up to us to accept our mistakes, take responsibility for it and decide on what to do so as to avoid repeating the same mistakes.

Apart from teaching us to become productive members of the society, they have taught us discipline. We all hated the punishments; the caning!

Truth is, if we were not disciplined, we’ll probably never learn lessons that allow us to live our lives successfully. During the four year course; the teachers have taught us to be confident in everything we do; being confident in everything we do.

They have insisted that whatever we do in life, we should do it to the best of our ability. This kind of wisdom has enabled us and boosted our confidence. Right now, we know better, we know that we are not supposed to live under the shadow of someone else, and eventually end up losing golden opportunities.

Under the tutorship of our teachers, we have honed our talents. Some of us are dancers, singers, comedians while others are now public speakers. Our principal, Chege G. Mwangi often told us that in whatever we do, we should do it once and do it the right way. As we finish with high school, we all know that this is a one-time shot and that we are not planning to miss, our plan is to hit the bull’s eye.

During the four year course; the teachers have taught us to be confident in everything we do; being confident in everything we do.

As we wrap this up, we have learnt that one should be open to learn from anyone even those you dislike, because each person has their own experience and we can learn from each other.

We are grateful to our teachers and we wish them the best in live.

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D OC TOR ' S B E N CH

How to help children overcome Bed Wetting Studies show that by the age of 6 years 1 out of 7 children, 20% of 5 year olds, 5% of 10 year olds and 1% of 15 year olds will still have bed wetting habits.

By Wachira Fridah

I

found out that we (especially in my country) have some interesting unconventional methods of dealing with bed wetting. Unfortunately, most of them are based on superstition and the belief that bedwetting cannot be a medical condition. Some people believe that it is due to demon possession and associate it with religion.

Others believe it is just a habit one develops as a child and finds it hard to stop as they grow up. Bed wetting is not a new topic to any of us- in fact if you grew up like me, you probably don’t think it is that big of a deal. You are right! However in some cases bed wetting may affect the child’s emotional well being and even the parents. For most children bed wetting is more of an inconvenience than a medical illness. Developmentally speaking, at 7 years is when you should begin to get concerned if your child can’t stay dry at night.

When to seek medical attention 1. After the age of 7 years 2. If your child starts wetting their bed again after 6 months of staying dry at night 3. When the bed wetting affects your child’s emotional, social or academic well being

How to manage bed wetting at home Motivational therapy. Encourage and do not punish your child for something that is natural. Do not spank or shame them. Do not make a big deal about it. This might affect your child’s self-esteem. Assure your child that they will outgrow it. It is certainly not the child’s fault and punishing the child makes the situation worse. You can use rewards or positive reinforcements to offer encouragement.

Acknowledge and encourage them every time they wake up dry.

Cut off caffeinated drinks, alcoholic drinks, sweeteners, citrus juices or artificially flavored drinks e.g. sodas. These can act as diuretics or bladder irritants.

Ensure your child gets a rich fiber diet to prevent constipation since it is one of the causes of nighttime enuresis.

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Limit fluid intake before bedtime but remember it is important to keep your child hydrated during the day to prevent excessive thirst and dehydration.

Do not use diapers, training pant or pull-up pants at home especially if your child is older than 8 years. This will encourage them to stay in bed.

You can still use them for special occasions like sleep- overs.

You can also try some bladder exercises to strengthen the muscles and stretch them. Ask the child to hold and squeeze a small ball- the size of a fist-between the thighs, just above the knees. You can also ask them to hold the urine a few minutes longer when they have the urge to pee; this might help expand the bladder and improve control as long as they do not do it to postpone peeing. These exercises are effective when done at least twice a day consistently so do not give up after the first day.

Identify some of the triggers of bed wetting for your child. This will help you rule out any emotional disturbance that may be the cause.

Do not neglect your child’s emotional wellbeing.

Try using bed wetting alarms. This takes a while to work-about 12 weeks. Therefore, they are only effective if there is enthusiasm for participation from both the child and the parents and if the child is not blamed for bed wetting. Some commercial bed wetting alarms are available but if you do not want to buy, you can set alarms for your child and wake them up to pee at the same time every night. It is also important to create a night time routine for your child and this should include emptying the bladder before going to sleep.

Do not use anti-cholinergic, antibiotics or antidepressants on your child without a doctor’s prescription.

If you are worried that it is a medical issue or if your child is a teenager or young adult, please visits the doctor for further investigations and management.

The Importance of Mental Health

Did you Know?

01

KENYA

I out of 4 persons who seek health care in Kenya have a mental health condition (WHO,2021)

02

WORLDWIDE

03

Worldwide mental, neurological, and substance use disorders are the leading cause of burden of disease as measured using DALYs and account for 7.4 percent of DALYs worldwide.

(Meyer & Ndetei, 2015) 04

UNIPOLAR

Among mental disorders, unipolar depression accounts for the highest-burden of diseases (Meyer & Ndetei, 2015)

TREATMENT

According to a study on the global prevalence of mental disorders commissioned by WHO, slightly more than threequarters of severe cases in the low- and the middle-income world went untreated.

05

RISK

According to WHO, more than one-third of the world's population has at one time or another suffered from mental disorders varying in severity.

By Jacqueline Njagi

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HOW MENTAL HEALTH AFFECT YOU MENTAL HEALTH AFFECTS PHYSICAL HEALTH Sometimes mental health issues can present themselves in physical symptoms. People with acute anxiety sometimes have digestive issues like indigestion, diarrhea, and vomiting. Some people get skin rashes when they are stressed or depressed. The mind and the body are different but closely related. For example; sometimes when I really struggling mentally, I have really bad headaches. This is one of the reasons why mental health matters.

PRODUCTIVITY AND MENTAL HEALTH ARE CORRELATED Most people struggling with their mental health have a hard time getting anything done. Some people just want to sleep all day. Others cannot bring themselves to start any project. People with mental health disorders like Bipolar and Schizophrenia, often have to take breaks from normal functioning society to deal with their disorders.

QUALITY OF LIFE DEPENDS ON MENTAL HEALTH Most mental health patients are always fighting each day just to live. Sometimes the most that you can do is breathe. With poor mental health, you find that sometimes you can't even pinpoint a day that you were really happy. Sad life to live, right? That is the case for some people.

Sometimes mental health issues also prevent you from doing basic things like showering, brushing teeth, combing hair, etc.

MENTAL HEALTH IS ESSENTIAL TO RELATIONSHIPS One of my favorite sayings is ' Always fill your cup.'

It is a bad mental health habit to not take care of your mental health before showing up for others.

You can only meet others as deeply as you have met yourself. For people with mental health disorders, sometimes it takes a lot of energy to show up for people. Sometimes they take breaks away from people so having people who understand this is important in maintaining relationships.

RELAXATION AND SLEEP NEED GOOD MENTAL HEALTH Mental health issues can cause insomnia for people. This would then cause a loop of terrible mental health and no sleep. Sleeping a few hours will cause you to have bad mental health and bad mental health will cause insomnia in you. This would then go forth to affect your relationships, productivity, and quality of life.

You can only meet others as deeply as you have met yourself.

Despite mental health affecting so much of our lives, we choose to ignore it and not show up for ourselves. All the ways that it shows up in our lives are why mental health matters. I challenge you today to do one thing daily that will improve your mental health.

What other ways does mental health affect our lives?

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ADHD Among Children

A

For people with this condition, mundane tasks such as following routines and doing chores are difficult to accomplish. Doug shares more.

By Doug Kanja

DHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by continued inattention, impulsiveness and hyperactivity. In layman’s terms it’s a condition that prevents people from paying attention or sitting still even if their lives depend on it.

It is not clear what causes ADHD. A combination of genes and environmental factors likely plays a role in the development of the condition. Imaging studies suggest that the brains of children with ADHD are different from those of children without ADHD. So when symptoms present themselves it is important not to pass them off as mere tantrums.

For people with this condition, mundane tasks such as following routines and doing chores are difficult to accomplish. Not because of any physical challenges but they can’t focus on a single task long enough to actually do it.

ADHD presents itself from an early age. In some instances, it can be identified in toddlers. It’s one of the most common psychological disorders that are diagnosed in children, the symptoms become less serious as they grow older but in some cases they can last into adulthood.

Children are ordinarily not good at paying attention and are impulsive and can be expected to grow out of it, but in children with ADHD, they simply don’t just grow out of it. The symptoms become clearer as they grow and cause problems in school and in their social life.

Inattention (Not being able to focus) Not being able to focus. Getting most kids to do their homework or chores proves to be a daunting task, but for kids with ADHD, we'll try not to scream because it’s not going to be a walk in the park.

Their brains are hard wired not to pay attention, or have a rather short attention span. The upside is that a lot can be accomplished during these short lived moments of hyper focus. It is important to be able to identify these moments as the kid can perform tasks that they would have otherwise been unable to do.

Hyperactivity (Being extremely active) Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat Leaves seat when remaining seated is expected Runs about or climbs in inappropriate situations Has problems playing or working quietly Is often "on the go," acts as if "driven by a motor" Talks excessively

Impulsivity symptoms Blurts out answers before questions have been completed Has difficulty awaiting turn Interrupts or intrudes on others (butts into conversations or games)

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Healing is still possible. Do not lose sight of the promise of healing however impossible the situation may seem. For our transgressions he was wounded and by his stripes we are healed.

Supporting Children with ADHD For kids with ADHD or any other mental health disorders, it is important to have a structured support system. Parents and teachers play a critical role in the physical and mental wellbeing of these children.

ADHD kids will notice that they are not the same as other kids. They may not understand why they behave the way they do and will be powerless at times to control their impulses. This maybe a load on their mental wellness and if unchecked they may fall into depression or pick up risky behaviors in an attempt to cope.

This will be stressful for you both so being equipped for the task at hand is important. So let's have a look at some of the things that a parent or teacher can do to support a child with ADHD. Have some patience. Losing your nerve at the kids won’t do little to make them better. If anything it will only add to the load that they are already dealing with. Yelling at them and constantly pointing out their flaws or asking them to be like other children while they are clearly not will lead to low self-worth. As tempting as it may be you’ll have to control your temper.

Educate yourself. Having as much information about the special needs of your children is important. For a diagnosis consult a doctor, it’s important to know what it is you are facing, this will enable you to have a proper strategy on how to deal with the issue. There are loads of resources online that will be of great help.

Having a proper meal plan is also advised. Foods rich in sugars should be avoided as they would stimulate hyperactivity. Foods with high proteins and iron are a good fit for managing symptoms.

Create a supportive system. Your child will have a lot to deal with so having a good support system in place is going to be crucial. Make your child understand that they are not wholly responsible for their actions. Having the talk about ADHD with them. Their teacher will need to be notified about it as they play a major role in the child's development. Kids with ADHD have a lot of energy so identifying areas of interest such as sports or music plays helps manage symptoms.

Last but not least don't ignore your own metal health. Stress can take its toll on you and your child. Reach out to your friends, family, or a support group when you feel drained. And remember that it’s OK to get professional help when you need it.

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Teens Pressure to Conform to the World Social anxiety and stress can influence strong conformity among teenagers. The pressure to conform (to do what others are doing) can be powerful and hard to resist. Every teen will face a form of peer pressure growing up, whether it's negative or positive. Whichever the case, what are we supposed to do? Joshua is concerned about the trends but believes all hope is not lost.

By Joshua Mwaniki

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aul urges the believers in Rome in the book Romans 12:2 not to conform to the worldly standards but instead be transformed by the renewal of their mind.

Have you ever wondered why Paul did so? It is because the greatest weapon the enemy is using in these days to make the believers to compromise their faith and succumb to the pressure of this world. The teens are the majority that have fallen prey to this trap of the enemy. Rev 12:12 Therefore, rejoice ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them.

Woe to the inhibiters of the earth and of the sea! For the devil is come down unto, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.

The devil is filled fury and wants to hijack the young generation. One of the contributors to the pressure of conforming to patterns is this MEDIA. The much exposure to teens to the media has led most of them to consume explicit content that is not biblical.

During the COVID lockdown schools were closed down and most of the learning took place over the internet.

However good the media is, some hackers hacked some of the learning systems and would play dirty videos in the learning sites. This was so much unfortunate as most of the teachers and parents thought that the students were learning.

The teachers and parents have to check on what the teens are watching on the media and suggest to them godly sites and content that they will watch.

One of the greatest needs for teens is to find a place to belong. They have a longing for people who care for them, understand them and show them the love they need. Unfortunately, when they lack a mature believer either an adult or even their peer who can reciprocate the same they end up in peer groups that are immoral. Pauls clearly states in 1 Corinthians 15:33 Don’t be misled bad company ruins good morals that is so true.

These teens end up doing what they see their peers do since they want to be part of the the peer group. This is makes them do what they do say what they say and think in the same way they do and finally end up into so many addictions. The teens need to be listened, their struggles understood and shown the much love and care they need. The parents, teachers and guardians also need to check on their associations. The teens should be encouraged to attend the Sunday schools and teens bible classes where they will not be taught the word of God but they will also interact with other godly teens.

Celebrities are also contributing a big part to the teen’s behavior.

What the celebrities, who include the musicians, politicians, actors and actress portray to the teens is the love for the world. It is so unfortunate that the people that most teens consider as role models are the same so immoral people.

Just recently a young man gets influenced by the movie he watched.

After this young man saw how his favorite movie star murdered the entire family he decided to do same.

He went mercilessly and ended the lives of his entire family. The language the teens speak and the kind of rebellion some of portray is as a result of what they seen the celebrities.

However, not all hope is lost. God is raising a new breed of celebrities that full of GOD and full of integrity that the teens can emulate and look up to. Timothy had people like Paul, his grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice whose faith they could emulate.

One of the marks of the end times that Jesus gave in Matthew 24:12 is that wickedness will increase the more and the love of many will wax cold. Paul also speaks by the spirit of God to Timothy in the book of 2 Timothy 3: 4 that in the last days people will the pleasures of this world more than God. The good news is this: that the greater the pressure among the teens to conform to the patterns of this world is, greater the measure of grace God releases to be able to cope with the pressure. Paul says something encouraging about this in Romans 5;20( The law was brought in so that the trespass might increase. But where the sin increased, grace increased all the more ). Every young person should encouraged that there is no temptation that will ever come their that is not common but the Lord will provide a way of escape and grace to overcome.

Every time we preach to the teens let’s encourage them, but also tell them how narrow the path is that leads to eternal life. Everything that does not please the Lord should be avoided and let us tell the Lord to help us live a holy life in this perverse generation.

1 JOHN 2: 15; Do not love the world or anything in this world.

If anyone loves the world the love of the father is not in them.

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BUSINESS If you do not believe in yourself, it is certain no one else ever will. You then need to have faith even in your start up.

Successful entrepreneurs have all experienced pitfalls and difficult times. What sets them apart is that they were persistent. Linet talked to the CEO, Azani Africa and she shared with us their success secrets.

Growing your Business During Turbulent Times.

By Linet Mwangi MSC Strategic Management

S

tarting a business and running it are two different things.

Running the business until it gets on its feet and can withstand those explosive times can be an uphill task.

In the recent years especially during Covid-19 many businesses have faced giant distractions until some that could not withstand the heat closed.

Running a business during this period proved to be a rollercoaster ride especially for small business owners everywhere.

Experience showed that with the right strategy and a bit of good faith, it’s possible to grow your business, expand your customer base, and boost your bottom line, even during the most turbulent of times.

It is not lost until it actually is. When faced by a change/challenge it takes boldness to use it to your advantage and re-invent on how it will work for and not against you.

I had a sit down with the CEO and founder of Azani Africa; a rapidly growing fashion and design business dealing majorly with African attires and this is what she had to say.

WHEN DID AZANI_AFRICA START OPERATING? Azani Africa was birthed in early 2020 just before covid hit and took a toll on the economy - no one expected that things would take that turn. It started off with just one employee who was on contract terms but as time passed, I now have two employees on permanent basis.

WAS THE BUSINESS AFFECTED BY COVID? Most definitely. Covid-19 meant no gatherings, no events and minimal outdoor activities.

People stayed indoors. Who will buy clothes and they are going nowhere/there are no occasions to attend?

HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THIS?

Receive feedback with a positive mind and use it to reinvent your the times we were in, I business Despite kept marketing my products HOW WAS THE GROWTH AND RECEPTION BY THE MARKET? Like any other business, it hasn’t been a walk in the park especially given the time the business began operation. The growth process was quite slow since Covid started one month after I opened the business.

Customers loved my products.

The products did the selling but the purchasing power was very low given the times.

online since that is where most if not everyone had turned to and when the country opened up, I had created a potential customer base who reached out.

WHAT WOULD YOU TELL AN UPCOMING ENTREPRENEUR? Listen to what customers say about the products. This means receiving feedback with a positive mind and use it to reinvent your business and products. Keep going and do not stop.

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HERE’S WHAT I WOULD CHALLENGE BUSINESSES TO DO WHEN THINGS GO SOUTH.

Reframe and focus on the positive- in the case of azani for instance, it leveraged on marketing online and focused on what it would achieve through that. Sometimes when you go through this process, a new business or business division emerges from the opportunities that are presented.

Understand the game- With COVID-19, the rules have changed; and without notice.

In business, the goal is not to win or beat a competitor as in a board game. It’s to outlast your competition and continue playing.

Focus on the customer-What do they have to say about the products, the change and use it to reinvent or improve.

Invest in your business-this does not necessarily mean in monetary terms. It could be as simple as expanding your social media presence, putting more content on your website.

Social Media Is a Great Way to Forge a Relationship with Your Customers-take advantage of it.

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Rising Food prices: When it affects a staple Prices for most of the raw materials have increased month on month.

Cost of food in Kenya increased 15.30 percent in July of 2022 over the same month in the previous year. The increases are a result of supply constraints driven by difficult-to-predict variables— high energy prices, geopolitics and weather. What do we do? Read John's sentiments, a graduate in economics & statistics.

By John Ndungu

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Kenyans should respond and begin to plan and strategize and find ways of investing in this food situation

aize! For the typical Kenyans, not a week passes by without families enjoying a meal made with or from maize. Research shows that 78% of the 48million Kenyans use maize flour to make ugali and porridge. As a staple food, Kikuyus are known for their love of maize in preparing githeri (mixed maize and bean) while most Luhyas and Luo can not last a week without making their favorite ugali, complimented with fish, beef or vegetable. Mama Mboga on the other hand, wakes up early to soak cereals, githeri included, that she'll cook in a huge aluminum pot besides her grocery kiosk and sell during the day within the estate. Obviously, maize is a major part of her income as well as, the Kenyan economy at large.

Yet, this widely demanded commodity, has become a scarce and costly product in Kenya currently.

In the past few months, the highest price ever recorded of a 2kg packet of maize flour hit 200, the most expensive brand going for Kshs 220. Not long ago we bought the same packet at half that price, yet it still seemed unaffordable for some Kenyan household. Like we know how to do best, Kenyans have expressed their plight both on social media and on the streets! The current rise has become a major nightmares the “local mwanachi” who survives on a dollar per day. And despite the government's effort to subsidize the cost of the packet of maize flour to Ksh100, still the subsidized product is unavailable in the market.

From a key study in the past 5 years the price of flour is recorded to rise with a biggest margin ever in the Kenyan History. Take for instance in the past one month, the price of 2kg maize flour packet has risen from ksh.148 to ksh 200 .This is about 40% price increase. On the other hand, the market retail price for a kilogram of maize in September 2020 was at 41.4 ksh. In 2022 the price rose to ksh 70 a kilo, making it a margin of 28.6 ksh. This is about 69.08% increase in price which in return has far reaching effects that affect both business people and consumers across the nation.

Drought, unemployment, urbanization and devolution in Kenya are the major driving force as most people continue neglect their farms and move to the city where they have to purchase this current precious commodity.

In light with the increasing population, millers are warning that the increase of maize consumption will continue to rise within the next 10 years. Majory because thelocal maize stock and regional imports still remains low. Infact, some millers claimed to have shut down becausethey run out of maize to process.

The Kenya National Bureau of Statistic claimed that inflation in Kenya has risen from 6.5 to 7.1 percent in the last two years. But Like Joseph in Egypt who prepared to deal with years of famine after receiving a warning from a dream, Kenyans should respond and begin to plan and strategize and find ways of investing in this food situation since it's not expected to change any time soon. On the other hand the government should begin to set up structure and policies that will encourage and support farmers to plant and make the staple dish available and affordable for all.

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NUTRITION

Healthy

CHILD

Nutrition is important at every age. Your children need proper nutrients stay healthy and strong, and grow up healthy and strong. Good nutrition positions a child for success by promoting cognitive development. Sylvia shares with us how to establish healthy nutrition habits.

By Sylvia Musinzi Msc in Nutrition.

T

he foundation of a child's survival and development is good nutrition. Well-fed children have superior capacities for growth, learning, play, and community involvement.

They are moreover more crisis-resistant. However, many children today do not receive the nourishment they require for survival and growth. The most vulnerable and underprivileged children are particularly affected by poor nutrition. According to UNICEF, stunting, wasting, and being overweight are the three most obvious signs of malnutrition in children under five, affecting at least one in three.

Poor diets significantly contribute to malnutrition in all manifestations, from pregnancy through childhood and adolescence. Multiple factors, including globalization, urbanization, inequality, environmental crises, diseases, and humanitarian catastrophes, impact children's diets and make it more difficult for families to get healthy, cheap foods. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the already severe problem of child malnutrition by endangering families' livelihoods, impairing access to and affordability of safe and nutritious diets, and

By Sylvia Musinzi complicating the provision of essential nutrition services —with disastrous results for the most vulnerable children.

Even as young as infancy, children's eating patterns begin to form. Therefore, parents must promote healthy eating from infancy to adolescence. Your infant will need breast milk for the majority of infancy. They offer almost all the nutrients your baby requires in the first year of life. Nearly all infants should be breastfed or given just human milk for about six months, according to the WHO. Toddlers grow in phases. Their appetites also fluctuate in intensity. They might consume a lot of food one day and a little the next. That is typical. Simply keep providing them with a daily healthy meal variety, and they should be able to acquire the nutrients they require. You can have less influence over what your child eats during the day after they start school. But you can still assist them in eating a nutritious diet.

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Critical tips for forming healthy habits Early nutrition involves more than just making healthy meal choices. It also consists in guiding your child toward developing wholesome eating habits.

Here are some other ways you can encourage children to eat healthily.

1.Do not make your little child eat by force. Children need to learn how to listen to their bodies to stop eating when they're full. A child made to eat by force typically consumes less food overall.

2.Don't use food as a reward. Your child may begin using food to deal with their emotions if you use it as a reward or a sign of affection. Give them hugs, compliments, time with you, or attention instead.

3.All screens should be turned off during meal times. Do not allow your child to watch television while eating. It promotes mindless eating, and your child might not notice typical bodily cues that indicate fullness.

4. Make mealtimes more than just eating. Take advantage of the chance to forge lasting family bonds. Don't let your child eat alone, and converse with him or her while you eat.

TASTYFood A

K I T CH E N

BY DENNIS NJIRU

study by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation shows that parents have significantly huge influence on their children's behavior. This includes eating habits and physical activity. In fact, the person I had become now that I have grown most of the food choices and grocery shopping is influenced by most of the choices my parent would do. This impact is the same as to the recipes your children will pick and the kind of a lifestyle they'll lead nutritional wise. So, teach your kids about how to live a healthy life. Help your children learn to make healthier food choices and engage in regular physical activity by being a good food role model.

You might want to consider a few points as elaborated below; Embrace the Concept of Family

Family dynamics can have a positive (or negative) effect on a child's health. Family patterns that seem most related to health include family closeness, flexible parenting, supportive home environment and mind-stimulating activities. On the flip side, if parents are over protective and possessive, children tend to be less likely to engage in healthful behaviors and food choices if let free or alone in the house.

Promote Positive Habits

Aim for balance and openness around food and mealtimes. Include your children in meal planning, shopping and preparation to encourage participation. Provide fair attitudes toward feeding and create a warm and open family environment at mealtimes. The same goes for exercise. Make sure your kids know they are part of the team and that health and fitness are a family affair. Take turns letting your child pick a family activity, a recipe, cooking ideas and also taking part in the cooking itself. This allows them to feel their impact on the served food on the table during mealtime.

Keep Foods Neutral

Stay away from using food as a reward and don't totally forbid specific foods. Using food as a reward, such as giving a child a cookie for completing his or her homework, can lead to an unhealthy relationship with food. Labeling foods as "bad" or forbidding foods only increases a child's desire for the food. Parents who tightly control their own eating — "restrained" eaters — may not notice they exert such excessive control over their children's food habits, which can lead to the risk of overweight in children. Risk right?

Don’t Force Feed

As they grow, children’s appetites and tastes fluctuate. So, when they’re full, don't push them to clean their plate. Also, don’t force children to stay at the dinner table until they’ve finished those veggies. Though this might appear to help your kids get the nutrition they need, these behaviors can actually lead to kids disliking those foods and having negative associations with mealtime.

Research suggests that parents can positively affect children's development and behaviors, especially in the early years. So, engage with your children and be the person you hope they will become both in the kitchen and in choosing those recipes.

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APPLE BLUEBERRY CRUMBLE

This easy-to-make dessert is made with Red Delicious apples and blueberries and topped with vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt.

Ingredients 3 large Red or Golden Delicious apples (about 2 pounds), unpeeled and cut into ½-inch pieces (about 4 cups) 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons whole-wheat flour 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

Topping ½ cup walnuts, very finely chopped ½ cup old-fashioned or quick-cooking oats 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons whole-wheat flour 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed or wheat germ ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon ⅛ teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons canola oil 42 | CONVO ISSUE 06

Directions Before you begin: Wash your hands.

Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Place the apples, brown sugar, flour, vanilla and cinnamon in a large bowl and toss to coat.

Gently stir in the blueberries.

Place the apple mixture in an 8 x 8-inch baking pan or dish and set aside.

To make the topping, place the walnuts, oats, brown sugar, flour, flaxseed, cinnamon and salt in a medium bowl and stir to combine.

Add the oil and stir until the oat mixture is well coated. Spread the topping evenly over the fruit mixture.

Bake 40 to 45 minutes, or until the fruit is tender and the topping is golden brown (cover with foil about halfway through if the topping browns too quickly). Tip: Top each serving with low-fat vanilla frozen yogurt or a dollop of light whipped cream.

NOMADIC

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24

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PASTA WITH TOMATO SAUCE Ingredients 1 tbsp. olive oil 1 brown onion, chopped 2 garlic cloves, crushed 1 x 800g can Italian diced tomatoes 1 tbsp. tomato paste 1/3 cup chopped fresh continental parsley 1/2 tsp caster sugar Salt & freshly ground black pepper

Method Step 1 Heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, uncovered, stirring often, for 3 minutes or until it softens slightly. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, for 1 minute or until aromatic.

Step 2 Stir in the tomatoes and tomato paste. Increase heat to high and bring to the boil. Reduce heat to medium and simmer, uncovered, stirring often, for 6-7 minutes or until the sauce reduces and thickens slightly.

Step 3 Stir in the parsley and sugar. Taste and season with salt and pepper.

Step 4 Meanwhile, cook the pasta in a large saucepan of salted boiling water following packet directions or until al dente.

Drain and return to the pan.

Step 5 Add the sauce to the pasta and toss to combine. Serve immediately.

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SkinCare ROUTINE

"How to Build One"

Naturally glowing skin is typically skin that is healthy and hydrated. You can work towards this by gradually implementing a skin care routine. Anne from Annyl's Beauty shares how to go about it.

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t Annly’s Beauty we consider ourselves experts when it comes to skincare. Great skin has everything to do with our daily habits. The main goal in our skin care routine comes down to a few simple things. Keeping our skin looking and feeling its best, preventing further damage to our skin and minimizing irritation to the skin. We created a guide to help ease your skincare routine.

KNOW YOUR SKIN TYPE. The right skin care routine starts with knowing your skin type.

Your skin needs solutions and products based on your skin type. We help determine your skin type i.e. dry, oily, combination or sensitive by doing a skin analysis.

PRODUCTS TO ELEVATE YOUR SKIN CARE Once you know your skin type, you can choose products that tackle your specific skin concerns and needs. Your skin-care regime can be as simple or involved as you desire, but the best skin-care routines includes the following essentials:

Cleanser Cleanser is the foundation of any skin-care routine. It’s important to gently wash your face twice a day to remove dirt and other pollutants that can cause clogged pores or irritation, and starting with a clean slate will allow your other skin-care products to work better.

Toner

REGULAR CONSISTENT FACIAL TREATMENT. Maintaining good looking skin takes more than just the right products. Which is why we recommend our monthly professional facial treatments. Facials help maintain your natural glow and helps your skin absorb your skincare products more effectively.

PATIENCE When it comes to skin care, Patience is key! Give your skin a chance to get used to a product for at least two to three months before switching. The exception here of course would be if a skincare product provokes any sort of irritation or allergic reaction in which case discontinue use right away.

Toner is a thin liquid applied after cleansing to help other products absorb into your skin better.

Moisturizer The function of moisturizer is to hydrate your skin, preventing water loss that occurs throughout the day.

Serum Serums are concentrated formulas of active skin-care ingredients. Most serums are water-based and should be applied before moisturizer, but some are oil-based and should go on top of moisturizer.

Sunscreen One of the most important things you can do to protect your skin is to use sunscreen every day. Make your life easier by choosing a moisturizer with broad-spectrum SPF 30+.

Annlys Beauty & Beyond is a one stop spa for beauty services located at Rehema place Block B suite 10 on ngong road opposite prestige plaza. they can be reached on +2547 93572473 from Monday to Saturday 8am-7pm.

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Keeping fit all year around Fitness is not just about the body; it’s also about the mind. When your mindset is geared toward good health, you will build strategies to ensure you are fit all year around. Rachael is a Gym Instructor and she shares with us how to ride on all seasons to keep fit.

By Rachael Mutuku

I

n our previous issues, we have talked about staying physically and mentally fit. We have discussed regular exercises we can do on a daily basis and we also looked at the relationship between exercises and mental wellness. Well, how about we take it further and talk about keeping fit all year round.

We all know that a year has four quarters or better still two halves. We also know that there are different season in a year; in this issue we look at two seasons, the dry and the rainy season. What then should we do to ensure that we remain fit regardless of the season of the year? Let’s talk about each season independently.

Hot & Dry Season This season runs from December to March. It is also referred to as summertime. It is characterized by high temperatures’ mostly between 61F – 80F. This is time when we all want to be fit especially because of some unhealthy eating habits during the festivities. Some of us like to work out in the morning while others like it in the evening.

For the early risers, if you are not doing any gym programs, it therefore is advisable for you to plan what you want to achieve from the workouts. Please note that people have different targets so it is important we have our targets put down. For this issue we look at general fitness as our target. Take for example, you want to take a morning run before your daily programs, it is important to make sure that you are on a right outfit for the run. For this kind of a run we can use our normal track suits - the pants, a t-shirt and the jacket.

However, you may opt not to use the jacket depending on how chilly the morning is.

Cool & Dry Season

Mostly, this runs from June to August. Usually, these months are cold, with July being the coldest.

Working out in this season is relatively easier compared to during the hot season. Working out will need you to ensure that you are well dressed so that you don’t expose yourself to the cold. During this time, it is advisable not to wear cotton outfits, this is because when cotton absorbs sweat it easily allows cold into the body, it causes friction and becomes heavy since it is wet. Therefore, using silk would be the best option. Some of the reasons why I advise you use silk is because it does not retain sweat due to its light nature, it dries faster and it is light for the body.

When the mornings are chilly and maybe foggy, adding a nylon jacket to the silk t-shirt is a very good idea.

This kind of jackets ensures that your body retains as much warmth as possible. Doing so allows your body to have enough heat to take you through your outdoor workout.

For the indoor workouts, the jacket will not be very necessary.

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The Rainy Season The rainy seasons are not much different from the cold. They only have the additional fact that outdoor activities are a little limited. However the dress code is just as for the cold season with an additional of water proof glasses. They are meant to assist in clear vision. However, I would encourage us to invest more on indoor activities during the rainy season. If it is not possible to work out at home, then you can enroll to a nearby gym.

It is important to note that the things we have talked about are also equally applicable to those of us that work out in the evening. Adjustments are done depending on the weather of the day.

Before you start your run please ensure that you do some light dynamic stretches at home or better still, start your distance with a walk and slowly accelerate: start with some short steps, increase your pace, and break into jogging then finally the actual run.

These warm-ups are meant to prepare your body for more intense workouts, they also ensure that your body adjusts its blood flow and the heart rate. If it’s your first time doing the morning run then start with a short distance that you are able to cover without strain. As you keep doing it, you will realize that you can comfortably cover the distance within lesser time than when you started. This is therefore a good place to increase the distance.

Stretching It is also important to note that you should not increase the distance by more than half for the first time. During either of the seasons, when you are done with the workout of the day, it is very important that you stretch. This is because stretching helps; 1. To reduce the risk of muscle tension.

2. Limit muscle and joint strain.

3. Enhance muscle flexibility and tone.

4. Reduce the risk of injury.

5. Improves posture.

6. Relieve post-exercise aches and pains.

As I always say, Self-drive is the greatest motivator to personal training, training is paining but gaining. I encourage all of us to run, sweat, smile and repeat. Being fit begins with thinking fit.

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Kitenge The African print Fashion is a form of self-expression and autonomy. Fashion is a style. Marie, a fashion enthusiast shares with us stunning outfits made from the African print, Kitenge. As shared with us, her goal is much more bigger than her.

By Marie Laurah

B

eing a fashionpreneur and serving my community has always been my dream from childhood. I wanted my fashion line to have something unique and that's why I settled on Kitenge. I believe it helps us carry our message to the world through it's beautiful prints and amazing designs.

ANNAH is a brand that also helps me in raising funds for my donations to promote education through the sales we make.

Since the African print is already being recognised internationally, we are hoping to put more effort and be able to sell our products internationally. This will also create more jobs for our locals and keep more kids in schools.

01

AMANI SET : Looking to add splash of colours to your corporate look, Amani is the perfect choice for you because it's comfy,unique and stylish. Can also be worn separately.

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02

03

SHUKA COVER-UP: Radiates a cheery and pleasant vibe.The shuka pattern and accessories bringing to mind the maasai culture and thus can be worn to cultural ceremonies such as traditional weddings.

ANNA FLARED PANTS : Stay looking fabulous in our fashionable flared pants which can be worn all year round and paired with a nice solid-coloured top and sneakers for casual look.

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BLISS ANKARA TOP : Great choice for anyone with a taste for colour. Very comfy and soft ankara material. Can be worn with nice jeans ,biker-short and a pencil-skirt.

De Rosa media

Y O U R

O F F I C I A L W E D D I N G & P H O T O G R A P H Y G U Y S

E V E N T

call & book 254 700 693544

The promise of God

Oh all Your promises. Are yes and amen Jesus. Your promises are true.

Beloved, every promise of God is to do you good but has a price tag on it – obedience to the Lord.

A

Every promise of God has a condition attached to it. Why? God doesn’t waste His resources. God in His sovereign will called you to Himself and gives you His promise.

Remember God has enemies who He cannot treat like His children.

Do you know anyone can become a friend or an enemy of God? It is a choice.

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Pastor Jeff Gichuki Uzima Centre, Kenya cts 2:37 Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, "Men and brethren, what shall we do?" _ 38 Then Peter said to them, "Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit._ _ 39 "For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call."_ Have you heard that every promise of God has a condition attached to it? When I was growing up in faith I would wonder why was that important. Why would God make a promise and add a condition to it?

Here is the answer, God created man in His own image which meant man has a will just like God. Man has capacity to selfactualize, choose what to do or not.

God does not interfere with the “image of God” in man thus only transacts with man as man wills. You can choose to cooperate with God or oppose Him. To that effect He attaches conditions to His promises. It means therefore that you can only enjoy the promises after keeping to the conditions.

Looking at the passage we have today; "Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Peter and the elven disciples had just preached a powerful sermon to the mesmerized congregation who heard the disciples speaking in tongues. Peter makes it clear that the promise of the Holy Spirit was not limited to the few brethren in the upper room but available to all who would repent!

"Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

The Promise of the Holy Spirit is for all who would repent. God already made the Spirit available for all; "And it shall come to pass afterward That I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;” (Joel 2:28). So therefore, what is to repent? It is to turn.

Repentance means to turn from ones ways and look to God or rather take on the ways of the Lord. Those who repent abandon their wicked ways and follow Jesus.

The Promise of the Spirit is available to you today. Will you repent?

PRAYER: From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. (Matthew 4:17)

Your identity

MATTER

One of the most fundamental needs we have is for a sense of identity. Who we are matters terribly to all of us. To deny our selves is to deny existence. Kevin shares with us on identity and the best place to find our identity and purpose.

By Pst Kevin Ongori

When we get our identity right we do not struggle with purpose, our true identity is found in Christ. When men leave the path which is to guide them to life and eternal purpose, darkness, loss and wastage are just at the door he question that a lot of people ask when they waiting to strike. The scripture says, “Therefore, find themselves in a quagmire of issues, my people will go into exile for their lack of hopeless and in dire need of direction is; why understanding; their dignitaries are starving and am I here? What was I created for? and so on. their masses are parched with thirst”, Isaiah 5:13.

If weare are not to get it right when itwhat comesone to can do Seasons permanent, Knowledge and understanding play a major role purpose, we need to go into the Word of God in bringing us to a place of defining revelation in onetoseason hedefine might not beand able toisdo be able to it properly, there no it in assignment given to us by God over our life, better verse that brings it out clearly as it is the next season and when a season passes and self has no place in this. written in Acts 13:36, “for when David had God’s purpose his generation, he fell then itserved means that youinwill have to wait for the Most men and women in scripture had no idea asleep. His body was buried with his fathers next one. of what they carried or what they were to and saw decay”. The key thing to note right become until they had an encounter with the here is that, David never had a personal divine, just to mention but a few, Jeremiah never purpose but rather served a bigger and greater knew that he was a mighty prophet until he was purpose; which is the purpose of God. called, Gideon never knew he was a mighty man of valor until the angel appeared to him, Joshua want to Ongori bring to your attention here that the Pst. IKevin never knew what he could do until he got only purpose a man can ever have that is encouragement from above; the list goes on and fulfilling and eternal, is to fulfil the purpose of on.

God. Now the question that need to be answered is the relationship between purpose And for us believers, we never knew what we and identity. The first thing that God did when could do or become until Christ was manifested, He created man was to address the identity issue, the Bible says in Gen 1:26, “God said let us Acts 17:28 “For in him we live and move and have our being. As some of your poets have said, ‘We make man in our image and likeness”. It is in are his offspring”. Time fails me but as I said the likeness that purpose and identity was before our true identity and purpose can only be given. found in God.

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Gideon never knew he was a mighty man of valor until the angel appeared to him, Joshua never knew what he could do until he got encouragement from above CONVO ISSUE 06 | 51

Crisis generally arises on a short notice and causes major disturbances at the organization. Leaders play an extremely important role during crisis. Peter delves into this matter and share with us insightful thoughts.

THE VITALITY OF LEADERSHIP IN MANAGING CRISIS

By Peter Mutuku

E

verything rises and falls on leadership. When the leaders fail the whole organization fails .But what is leadership? Why should it rise and fall on leadership? Why are leaders accursed for the failure of organization and why are leaders celebrated for the success of the organization? How do crisis affect them and how important are leaders in line with solving them? Welcome on board as we maneuver together on this critical topic.

I would like to use the Biblical story of Jonah on the boat and the other sailors, I paraphrase, they asked each other why was the sea very wild and they had thrown away some of the weighty bulks that they had carried.

They then cast a lot and it fell on Jonah. In this scenario Jonah was the cause of the restlessness in the sea because he was running from his divine calling. Until Jonah was out of the boat everyone in the boat was going to die. This is what happens when the leadership fails to identify the cause, they throw away resources and human resource that would have been of benefit to the organization. Identify the Jonah in the organization and throw him in the sea.

Identify the Jonah in the organization and throw him in the sea.

Identify the Crisis Crisis is a sudden happening within the organization. These changes can be as a result of overlooked leakages in the organization or overdue challenges that have grown to become crisis. At times they can be global happenings that can find expressions within organizations due to the inability to withstand them and they turn out to be perils. For leadership to solve any crisis, it’s important to be able to trace the cause. Finding out the cause give the leadership the confidence to plan on how to handle it. You cannot solve a problem if you cannot trace its cause. In the long run if the cause is not well identified, it will keep on reoccurring again and again and the organization will spend a lot of money trying to curb a problem whose cause has not been identified.

Identify the possible causes The next thing after identifying the crisis is identifying the possible cause of the crisis.

It’s important to identify the possible solution to handle the crisis .The leadership should be able to source both internal and external solutions to handle the crisis .The cause determines the best suitable solution that can be offered. This is the most vital stage of managing crisis. Many leaders prefer going for a cheaper solution that a permanent solution to handle the crisis. I have always believed that it is better to spend on quality that quantity and a long term solution is better than a short term solution with a lot of expenses.

Evaluate the damage or effect of the crisis The next crucial thing for every leadership is to evaluate the effect of the crisis. What impact it will it have in the organization.

This helps the leadership to plan and budget on how to manage the crisis. Come up with possible ways of curbing the crisis.

Implement the strategies Take time to evaluate the outcome and the effectiveness of the strategies. Focus on the solution. At this stage, the leadership should review other likely perils that would contribute to the occurrence of the same crisis.

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Your Money Matters

By Justus Njoroge

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our Money Matters is a book that is meant to equip the reader with financial literacy from a Biblical perspective. God in His Word probably talked about finance and wealth more than anything else. The will of God is that we handle our finances in HIS WAY- a way that our finances will benefit our generations and merit us as faithful stewards.

We live in a space filled with many unprecedented turns of events that have adverse economic effects. The covid-19 pandemic has exposed our lack of preparedness for unexpected and uncertainties. Many African countries' economies are easily destabilized by political, social, and environmental factors.

This calls for constant equipping on how to manage our finances. Efficiency and effectiveness in preparing for the future financial crisis mean seeking God's words about managing your money.

'Your Money Matters' informs us what God is saying about managing our cash and equips us with other real-time competencies to enlighten our financial competence.

The book implores the reader to admire working for individuals they admire, by all means ensuring they are maximizing their gifts, talents, and competence in work, jobs, and business. The author has emphasized proper planning, budgeting, and shrewdness in places of work and life.

Power to invest is another privilege and blessing God has given us- people fail to invest because of a lack of knowledge; hence they fail to reap abundantly. The book has outlined some aspects that would shape our investment decisions. The book also gives some directions on debt and debt management.

This book is meant to transform and improve you; please ensure you get yourself a copy.

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Convo HeMatters

HIS MONEY HIS FAMILY HIS HEALTH HIS SPIRITUALITY

Because He Matters CONVO | ENCOURAGING CONVERSATIONS THAT MATTER 54 | CONVO ISSUE 06

AG RIBUSINE SS

Kevin Mwaura DAISY FARM Rumuruti

Claiming The Fortune in Farming I feel young people are the future of food security, yet around the world and especially Kenya, few young people see a future for themselves in agriculture

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lobal population is projected to reach 9 billion by 2050. The number of young people is also expected to increase to 1.3 billion by 2050, accounting for almost 14 percent of the projected global population. Most of the young people are expected to be born in Africa. (FAO) According to Statista, the unemployment rate in Kenya increased to 6.6 percent in the first quarter of 2021, against 5.4 percent in the previous quarter. It was also higher than in Q1 2020, when 5.2 percent of the population aged 15-64 years were unemployed. Many young people continue to face challenges related to unemployment, underemployment and poverty.

Despite the agricultural sector’s ample potential to provide incomegenerating opportunities for many young people, challenges related specifically to youth participation in this sector.

I feel young people are the future of food security, yet around the world and especially Kenya, few young people see a future for themselves in agriculture. There are a number of reasons why young people are not interested in agriculture. One, pressure on arable land in potential areas making it difficult to start a farm. Lack of access to credit and other resources necessary for agriculture like subsidies. But even if such hurdles are removed, isn’t urban life cooler? It is not if you continue to struggle in urban areas.

I sought to understand this phenomenal from a young man who has found a fortune in farming. He is currently working at Daisy Farm in Laikipia that has 10 permanent employees and 20 temporary workers.

The farm is 50 acres that is purely horticulture and other 250 acres on cereals. My aim was to understand motivation that led him to venture into agriculture, the successes and the challenges you may encounter if you choose to venture into farming.

Kevin’s passion for agriculture developed in his formative years basically because he grew up with farming parents. He told me how he loved rabbits and would enjoy rabbit meat. This saw him pursue Agriculture Resource Management degree course at Kenyatta university.

He is currently pursuing a Masters Program in Agronomy. He told me he cannot regret doing faming, despite he challenges, the field has enabled him do quite a lot and put him on the path to financial independence. He told me the reason many young people are not willing to do farming is majorly because it is associated with dirt and that it is not well paying.

Kevin says this is a lie that has been propagated over time. There’s so much change that has occurred in the last few decades that has made agriculture one of the most profitable venture anyone can engage in.

This however doesn’t come overnight and on a silver platter. One of the challenge, he tells me is access to capital.

Unemployment rate in Kenya increased to 6.6 percent in the first quarter of 2021, against 5.4 percent in the previous quarter. It was also higher than in Q1 2020, when 5.2 percent of the population aged 15-64 years were unemployed.

Farming is capital intensive and especially in the wake of inflation being experienced worldwide. Prices for essential resources like fertilizer and pesticides have almost double in price. If you do not have enough capital, it become hard to persevere and see results. Another major challenge is availability of land. I wanted to interject when Kevin told me this is a challenge, but quickly explained that so many young people do not own land. The parents have not and are unwilling to release land to young people who are energetic. The only available land is on lease.

A third challenge is lack of management skills. Kevin made me aware that agriculture is an art and a science. Key skills are essential to help you understand the soil type and pests’ cycles. Managing a farm professionally is critical for its success – you need to document all activities, this will help you resolve issues as they occur as well as do an evaluation of the entire process for optimal performance of the farm for the next planting cycle.

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AG RIBU SINE SS Kevin recommends involvement of county governments to inject capital in agriculture and extend incentives to young people. He told me young people can be involved in various activities in the farming industry. They can use their skills in technology to bring invention that will improve the value chain. The need for value addition cannot be overemphasized and the need for storage facilities – young people can be in the forefront in bringing the much needed innovation in the agricultural sector to improve in productivity. This is critical because, most of the farming in rural areas is being done by aged population who are less likely to adopt technology needed for sustainably increase agricultural productivity.

A growing population need to be fed. This can be done if more young energetic individuals are willing to venture in to this lucrative field.

Marketing Your Poultry Business Employ a Marketer

“People don’t buy goods and services, they buy relations, stories and magic”.

Bypass the Middlemen

BY SIMON THAIRU BSc degree in Agricultural Economics and has a 4 year experience in the Ngo sector

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oultry has moved from the traditional poultry rearing as a hobby to a profitable venture, which encompasses farming and trade in chicken eggs, chicks and meat, sold to the open market, aggregators, processor and retailers.

Growth in the poultry business by rural small holder farmers has largely been hindered by lack of market access and information. Many farmers have invested in this venture only to give up soon after when they are unable to make profitability…but where do they get it wrong?

Marketing strategy is a plan of action designed to promote and sell a product or service. This is a key component in any profitable enterprise and just as other business, poultry business is not an exception. Good marketing strategy will give the poultry farmer an opportunity to advertise, sell, and profitably deliver products to customers at their own convenient.

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Most poultry owners especially small scale farmers mainly depend on middlemen to help them sell their poultry products to the consumer.

This is mainly contributed by the fact that these middlemen have the market information which the farmers do not have access to or are ignorant to acquire. Farmers should by pass this and market their products to the consumers directly.

Explore online market To explore this market, invest in a good camera take good photos and share online consistently. Online market works well for customers who buy in bulk for example a number of egg trays and chicks. In this marketing channel a high level of integrity, honesty and trust is key. Improve your skills with time help your customers order and buy online.

Supply direct to hotels and restaurants Most of these hotels buy from brokers mainly because they are able to maintain a sustainable supply of the products for a long time, act urgent and offer quality. If you can manage to convince the hotel operators that you can offer the product at a competitive price the market is there go get it.

I guess you would not want to hear this but if you are not a marketer, you may never know what strategy to employ in marketing your products. It’s advisable to employ a marketer who is well conversant with online and offline marketing.

The motivation here is usually commission on successful sales made.

Offer a unique package Another way to put an upward scale on your sales and explore new customers is to understand your market and offer a unique package.

You can think of offering free delivery especially slaughtered birds to your customers. This will work well especially if your farm is located in a peri-urban setting where the population is somehow dense and the demographic setting might not allow everyone to do farming. You must also understand that people won’t buy your products until you convince them and win their trust.

“Don’t put all your eggs in one basket” As the marketing landscape continue to expand, your need to have with you good marketing strategies. Adopting a multimedium approach will ensure you don’t limit your efforts to explore various channels. After all market is about expanding your opportunities not limiting them. All the best in your marketing journey.

In Silence Please!

By: Jackson Kimani In this short story, Jackson shares an encounter at a barber shop that you probably have experienced too, a never ending monologue by the barber.

Some love it while some dread it. For those who dread it, they want to be shaved in silence!

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have a long hair that I need cut. It has been two weeks due as I have been extremely busy at work. On a cold Saturday morning,

I had to free my morning and visit the barber. I stay near a highway.

Classified by KENHA as B12. I wait for a Matatu in vain. Sporadic Bodabodas would vroom past some without a pillion and none would even bother to ask by horn or flash lights whether am boarding. It is the norm here, unlike in Nairobi and other aggressive towns where a single glare to a bike equals interest in the service. By 1000am I had waved at 3 bodabodas and several small cars thinking they would be taxis but none had stopped.

No sooner had I contemplated returning back home, then a Matatu stopped and thankfully had an empty seat. I boarded and alighted 13kms later in the town I have had my shave for 7 years in a row, and 3 years with this specific barber am visiting- a Burundian. Sad news he had closed. It’s his Sabbath. I have been so busy to notice he is an Adventist. I count the frustrations of waiting for means of transport two and a half man-hours, and I resolve to have my hair done nonetheless at any other joint.

I enter a Kinyozi to have a haircut. It should be a simple thing. The only guy I found there is sitting on a bench right outside the Kinyozi. I get in and find an empty room. I come out and ask him where the barber is.

He does not answer. Instead, he stands up and enters the tiny Kinyozi. He picks a shawl and gestures for me to sit down. He wraps the shawl around my neck tightly as if he wants to strangle me.

He moves around me and a stench from his armpit hits with so much momentum and intensity.

Jackson with his MotorBike

I pull my face away and pretend to look at the different hairstyles on the chart hanged on the wall. He then picks up the shaving machine, switches it on and starts to brush its teeth with a shoe brush. "Mbona sioni hiyo style nataka. " I say as I continue to look at the chart. He speaks for the first time. " Bwana chagua style. Saa mbaya." I demonstrate how I want it done. He commands with a heavy accented voice that he does not understand me. How rude? I wonder.

He speaks for the third time with finality. I either select one of the styles or move out .I oblige. I choose one style that is closer to what I want. He gets down to work. Then he says something.

"Kuna msichana ananipea stress. “Nkt!" he clicked. I do not speak. "Ni kasichana kadogo. Hajui town vizuri. Alitoka hapa ati anaenda kusalimia rafiki yake ; but ni kama amepotea na hana simu."I still do not speak. He is actually pulling my hair.

I feel some searing pain. The machine is faulty. He clicks many times and says tomorrow he will buy a new machine.

He douses the machine with methylated spirit, brushes the teeth again, twitches the nut with a screw and the machine comes back to life.

He continues shaving, and talking. I waited wearily while he delivered a monologue soliloquy on the alleged female. He clicks and pulls my hair and the machine breaks down again. He swears that I am the last person he is shaving with that machine. That tomorrow first thing he will do is to buy a new machine.

I silently wonder about such crude and unprofessional service am getting. He keeps on using his pointing finger to position my head; as he complains non-stop about the young female. At this point am so tired. I can only equate my feeling with that of the Athenian statesman, two thousand years ago when he waited as a customer was being shaved and the barber gave him a summary of Athenian political architecture.

Phocion said he want to be shaved in silence. I wish I had been asked by rather the tall dark barber. I would have answered as Phocion did, 2000 years ago – IN SILENCE!.

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P O ET R Y

Prayer I made a prayer, A prayer for hope, The hope of a better country, A country for the people, A country by the people.

I made a prayer, A prayer for the liberation, Liberation from the angry wolf, Liberation from the jaws of sadists, Sadists in the name of leaders.

I made a prayer, A prayer for repentance, To be forgiven our inquities, The iniquities of our crown, So they can go to heaven.

I made a prayer, A prayer for the nation's restoration, Our service dignity and happiness all gone, Restoration for hope of tommorow, A hope which is only a word.

I made a prayer today, A prayer for good leadership to come, Good leadership comes from God, Good leadership will restore the country, Good leadership will actualize the prayer, I made a prayer. A prayer for greatness.

Monipoet is a young girl by the name Monica Wanjiru, a HR student at Zetech University. Her current heart art is writing as a way of expressing herself. She also sing and dance.

She is on social media platforms as monipoet on WordPress, Monica wanjiru on wattpad, monica_wanjiru on tiktok, moniwanjiru on Instagram and Monica Wanjiru on YouTube

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ART OF CHURCH-STAINED GLASS WINDOW AT ALL SAINTS CATHEDRAL, NAIROBI Historically, the stained glass windows were inspired by the cathedral age of the medieval and gothic periods. Each stained glass window in All Saints Cathedral has its own themes and subject matter that reflect bible stories, the saints, the gospel of Jesus Christ, memorials, and religious leaders

By Wanyama Ogutu

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t sunset and sunrise, the stained glass windows at All Saints Cathedral, Nairobi sparkle with beautiful color and harmony as organ melodies echo through the walls of the cathedral. It is among a few early churches of the Anglican church in Kenya that exhibit stained glasses, engraved wall plates, baptismal font basin, tapestry, engraved lantern, and pulpit, among others. All Saints Cathedral is over 105 years old and has its roots in England's The Cathedral of Canterbury.

In Kenya, it was designated as a historical site under National Museum of Kenya cap 216. The members of the public who frequent the cathedral for worship, weddings, requiem masses, christenings, and commemorations, or simply listen to organ music, are probably astonished by the stained glass windows.

The stained glass windows were designed with geometrical shapes such as circles and arches. The artistic inspiration and design of the cathedral artworks are borrowed from ancient Egypt, Byzantine, medieval, early Renaissance, and later modern periods.

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It is critical to recognize that stained glass traditions with gospel and bible themes are not a new phenomenon in contemporary Roman Catholicism in Kenya, as well as in the Presbyterian and Methodist Churches. However, the current modern church in Kenya, especially evangelicals, employs minimal stained glass windows that incorporate few artistic designs and theological subjects. This might be due to controversial faith in Christian doctrine.

Historically, the stained glass windows were inspired by the cathedral age of the medieval and gothic periods. Each stained glass window in All Saints Cathedral has its own themes and subject matter that reflect bible stories, the saints, the gospel of Jesus Christ, memorials, and religious leaders. For instance, the first stained glass window on the South Aisle depicts the themes of Fides – faith, and Caritas – charity.

The theme of advocacy for a simple life is related to St. Francis of Assisi, the founder of the Franciscan Order of St. Joseph of Arimathea. In South Aisle there seen a stained glass window in memory of a Kenyan hero who died in two world wars, and next is Lord Baden Powell, founder of the Boy Scout movement.

Looking north, the first two stained glass windows depict the theme of justice: human figures caring for justice scales on which envy, hatred, and malice are weighed against faith, hope, and charity; the theme of courage, which means fortitude.

Another theme has been Saints such as St. Michael, who is depicted as a guardian of Christian armies in battle with the 'heathen,' and St. Alban, the first British martyr who lived in the third century. Two stained glass windows in the North Aisle's children's corner depict the Wise Men's adoration of the Christ child, with a spot of a small star of Bethlehem.

Original children corner at North Aisle was meant to welcome children to the Cathedral and currently is a place for special communion services.

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These subjects on stained glass windows are traced from Romanesque and medieval churches such as St Augustine Cathedral in Ireland, the Cathedral of Canterbury in Kent, and Birmingham Cathedral in the United Kingdom, among others.

It is critical to recognize that stained glass traditions with gospel and bible themes are not a new phenomenon in contemporary Roman Catholicism in Kenya, as well as in the Presbyterian and Methodist Churches.

However, the current modern church in Kenya, especially evangelicals, employs minimal stained glass windows that incorporate few artistic designs and theological subjects.

This might be due to controversial faith in Christian doctrine. The stained glass window at All Saints cathedral allows sun rays to penetrate through and animate the subject matter, giving glory and reverence to Almighty God. It also displays the historical conformation of Anglican doctrine and its principles. The inherent shapes of stained glass depict African designs that appeal to African religion. Two realist human figures of stain and hero are juxtaposed on the center level for the harmony of the composition. Some stained glass shows an human figure holding a quill pen and a book, while others show holding a staff and a holy bible. The juxtaposition of human figures on stained glass signifies the integration of European religion into African culture.

They are all submerged in the respective color harmonies, implicating the mission of Christ in Africa and beyond. The bold black lines have been created to divide the subject matter and background of the composition with the intention of cementing the patriotism of African citizens. The extensive use of line has been employed in southern African design, such as Ndebele art. As a result, it is critical to recognize that the art of stained glass in churches has its roots in the early medieval church.

The art of stained glass windows plays an important role in creating an atmosphere of worship in church and appealing to Christian doctrine.

Finally, All Saints Cathedral, Nairobi is gazetted as a historical site and it is among the mainstream churches such as Anglican, Roman Catholic in Kenya, Presbyterian, and Methodist.

All these main early-stream churches incorporate African artistic designs on their stained glass windows that give a sense of African religion.

A BENEFIT OF ART & CRAFT ACTIVITIES ON THE ONGOING CBC CURRICULUM

By Wanyama Ogutu (2022)

rt & craft were taught in lower primary and kindergarten schools until 2017 when it was restored into the Competence-Based Curriculum (CBC).

Previously, art and craft were among the things that fueled the development of the 8.4.4. Its objective, "Education for Citizen Self-Reliance," was conceived under the presidency of late President Daniel Arap Moi. Drawing, painting, modeling, clay work, paper craft, and weaving are examples of art and craft that use or manipulate elements/materials to portray feelings or perceptions of the world and are thus judged by sight. For the early learner's stage, the current education system, 26-3-3-3 dubbed "Competence-Based Curriculum" CBC, has added a few disciplines such as pattern making, fabric decoration, painting, and coloring; It's critical to recognize that different art scholars, art teachers, and art educationists have structured the art & craft to suit their education system.

A good example is the Cambridge IGCSE system where Art and craft is prerequisite for subjects for critical and creative thinking.

Therefore, the CBC curriculum has ascertained that Art and craft refine fine motor, perceptual and sensory skills in early learners. Art therapists and medical practitioners such as Cathy Malchiodi revealed that art and craft enable the brain muscle to tend to relax, improve food digestion, and adequate body rest among other benefits.

As a result, it can develop the well-being of the children in their lifetime, hence fulfilling the CBC vision of “an engaged, empowered, ethical citizen of Kenya”.

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Why you need to be responsible Accepting responsibility is crucial for success because it helps you work through your mistakes without being weighed down by regret, guilt, or shame. It also builds strength of character. A person becomes better at admitting they are not perfect. Betsy shares why being responsible is important.

By Betsy Munene

Importance of responsibilities

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esponsibility is the state of having a certain duty with something or having control over someone.

Examples of Responsibilities Organizing your bedroom When you are given work you finish Helping at home e.g. washing dishes, cooking, ironing clothes.

Taking care of your younger siblings Respecting and assisting others Doing work given even when there is no one supervising Not watching things that you are not supposed to watch Accepting to be corrected when we make mistakes

When you are responsible you will never get in trouble with teachers and parents also with friends When you are responsible you are an organized person and you also save time when you are organized.

Responsibility help us to be accountable.

When you are responsible you are able to socialize with people When we are responsible we will not depend on our parents when we grow up When we are responsible we are able to perform well in our studies.

Responsible people make good leaders When you are not responsible you will not be doing your work well and therefore get in trouble.

Your performances are going to be low. Your work is going to be disorganized.

When you are irresponsible you lack friends because people will not believe you.

When you are irresponsible your time is lost and time lost is never recovered.

If you are not responsible you cannot be accountable in the future.

When you are irresponsible you are not able to socialize.

If you are irresponsible you cannot be trusted by teachers, parents and even your classmates.

Greatness is the price for Responsibilities

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GALATIANS 6:4- 5 Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won’t need to compare yourself to anyone else. 5 For we are each responsible for our own conduct.

Good Grooming

By Joy Golan Joy Golan is in Grade 6 at precious school Maragua. In this issue she shares with us the need for taking care of your body.

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ood grooming is taking good care of yourself and your body. Good health habits and personal hygiene are essential life skills especially as an adolescent.

Some adolescents think that brushing their teeth is pointless, but they need to understand that brushing twice daily prevents cavities and other health problems. In this article, I will share with you three key areas to consider and that will ensure you are well groomed as an adolescent or young adult

Joy Golan Grade 6 PRECIOUS School

Maintaining good grooming as an adolescence 1. Taking a bath daily to avoid bad smell 2. Shaving the hair under your armpits because they have a lot of sweat 3. Wearing clean and descent clothes 4. Shaving regularly (for boys obviously).

5. Changing underwear daily and wearing clean clothes.

Healthy eating habits for an adolescent 1. Always ensure you take a balanced diet 2. Get enough sleep 3. Avoid fast foods as much as you can 4. Eat a lot of fruits 5. Avoid over eating

"if you allow things to get out of hand for too long, bad habits may replace the good ones".

Importance of good grooming 1. It helps you stay away from health problems 2. If you exercise regularly, it will reduce any heart related problems later in life 3. Good food will ensure you have good immunity keeping you off diseases 4. Clean and decent clothes will build your confidence and help you interact with others

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RESPONSIBILITIES

Being responsible means being in charge of someone or something. Teaching responsibility to children helps them to be successful in school and in life. Hadassah, A pupil at Ahadi Presbyterian shares with us why having responsibilities is important.

By Hadassah Wanjiku

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Importance of responsibilities

esponsibilities are the things you should do on your own. It also means being accountable to someone for something. In children, responsibility also means being dependable, making good choices and taking accountability for your actions. Being responsible cause us to be obedient to our parents, guardians, mentors and teachers.

One of the key responsibilities as a child is to obey parents. The bible says in Ephesians 6; children obey your parents in the Lord for this is the right thing to do.

Honor your father and mother for this is the first commandment with promise added. The bible clearly tells us to respect and honor our parents. Part of respecting our parents is making sure you have done what you are supposed to do.

Examples of responsibilities 1.Cleaning utensils 2.Taking care of your pets 3.Washing your clothes 4.Polishing your shoes 5.Making your bed

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Doing your responsibilities well makes you a role model to your younger siblings.

Helping in house chores make you feel good Chores teaches you key life skills.

Responsible children learn to take care of their belongings.

Taking up chores allows children to follow instructions.

Working together as a family creates unity and brings people together.

Finally, we should always practice our responsibilities. Let us all be responsible.

Part of respecting our parents is making sure you have done what you are supposed to do.

Amusing Theme Parks The go-to destinations for kids in Doha

By Mary Kinuthia

D

riving or walking along any street in

Fun, for the current digital Generation

Kenya, you will notice children playing or

Alpha here in Qatar is defined by

hanging around talking and telling tales

technology, virtual assistance, little or no

that would intrigue any silent listener. you

social life. Service providers on the other

will notice some young boys on

hand have stepped up their game by

playgrounds mostly joyful while the girls

providing entertainment cut out to meet

look neatly organized playing home

Gen Alpha's social demands.

makers within the estates. This is not so in Qatar. You will hardly catch the sight of

For this reason, the demand and

children outside while driving through the

competition for the creative yet fun indoor

estate.

theme parks around the world is on the

Apart from the costly cars parked outside

rise. Well known theme parks in Qatar

every household in the sunny and empty

include the man made Aqua park and

streets during the day, you'll hardly catch

Snow Dunes, Jungle Zone, KidZania, Angry

the sight of children wondering or playing

Birds World, Viruocity, Desert Falls Water

outside. For a person who grew up playing

and Adventure park among others.

katii (throw ball) in any open playground back home, these streets feel lonelier and empty. You begin to sought of miss the presence of the dusty boys playing chobo na ngoto or chobo au depending on the hood you grew up in.

Service providers on the other hand have stepped up their game by providing entertainment cut out to meet Gen Alpha's social demands.

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Kids Zania

Aqua Park

As the name suggests, KidZania is an

Aqua Park is a man-made Oasis in

interactive city meant for children

Doha, as big as about five football

from the ages of 1 to 14. This theme

fields. It can host about 3000 people

park seeks to educate children on the

who are looking to escape the

adult world. KidZania combines up to

unbearable Middle Eastern heat in

60 children learning activities that

Qatar. Aqua park has various

include realistic roleplaying as

Adrenaline pumping activities

doctors, firefighters, police,

favourable for children and adult alike

detectives, chefs among others.

such as tube slides, wave pool, string

Through these fun filled activities and

ray surfing, bumper boat driving,

roleplay, kids are bound to learn a

lagoon pool and speed lines among others.

number of skills that can guide them into their future career.

Gondolania Bungee-Trampoline

Gondolania The enormous Gondolania is found inside the well-known-touristattraction mall called Villagio.

Gondolania has a wide range of entertainment which includes roller coasters, flume rides and drop tower for teenagers, Ferris wheel and bumper cars for toddlers. There are an array of other family friendly activities within Gondolania for everyone such KidsZania Engineer Roleplay

Baladna Park

as ice skating, 10-pin bowling, laser tag and dining watching the 4D cinema.

Snow White Dunes

Baladna is one of the largest milk producers and livestock farms in the

Snow Dunes

entire Middle East located in North of Doha town. It has a capacity to hold 24,000 cows. The farm does not only

Like Aqua Park, Snow Dunes is a

provide children with the opportunity to

manmade snow Centre found in

see milk production process first hand at

Doha Festival City Mall. Since Qatar

the high-tech rotary milking parlour, but

does not receive snow all year round,

also offers a variety of children friendly

Snow Dunes found a way to bring the

rides, games and farmyard appeals.

snow in Qatar within their centre which is roughly the size of a football

Within the farm is a park where the

field. The room is cooled below

brave attempt the downhill mountain

freezing point and parked with family

bikes, bumper boats and zip-lines, while

and children friendly games such as

parents enjoy the views relaxing in the

downhill slides, toboggans, carousels

neatly mowed leafy gardens and Baladna

and snow guns. This Arabian

restaurant. The main stage in Baladna

wonderland is the first indoor snow

Park normally hosts a rotating roster of cultural and musical events.

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centre in Qatar.

Baladna Park

Mzuzu, Malawi

ice, ice baby Travel Tips

Traveling does not have to be expensive. If it is your priority, you will find this article shared by Hellen very helpful ; showing you how to get money for travel.

BY HELLEN GRAYSON

A

ll travel lovers agree that the more we travel, the more we want to travel and if you have caught the travel bug too, chances are that you’d love to know how to afford to travel more.

There are no secret recipes for success and affordable travel, all you need to do is to adjust the ways in which you’re currently spending your money, seasons and different opportunity comes your way. In this guide, am sharing few smart tips about it. You’ll be amazed at how much easier traveling will seem to you once you’re done reading.

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Tarangire National Park, Tanzania

Don’t wait until the time comes to actually travel to save money. It does not work this way. Saving money for travel means that you need to adjust your every-day life to a new reality. It takes a bit of sacrifice. But if travel is your number one priority, it’s totally worth it

Oftentimes, people ask us How can you afford to travel so frequently?

Sometimes, they go as far as to add that travel is expensive and that not everyone can afford to travel, probably implying that those who do have loads of money in their pockets and not a single other worry in their heads. Before elaborating on the best ways to save money for travel, we feel the need to break this omnipresent, everlasting and utterly obnoxious stereotype.

It seems that people who travel a lot are constantly judged for this choice of theirs. As if what they love doing is absolutely worthless, not to mention the most expensive thing in the world. Well, it’s not.

Travel is way more affordable than other every-day life habits, such as ordering take-away coffee every day or something. It all comes down to setting priorities. If your number one priority is to see as much of this world as possible, you should be willing to sacrifice some of life’s other pleasures.

Therefore, the very first step to save money for travel is to adopt the right mindset. Stop thinking that you cannot afford to travel and start working on ways to save money to travel in your every-day lives and during travelling.

How to Save Money for Travel in Your EveryDay Lives Do not wait until the time comes to actually travel to save money. It doesn’t work this way. Saving money for travel means that you need to adjust your every-day lives to a new reality. It takes a bit of sacrifice. But if travel is your number one priority, it’s totally worth it.

Several years ago, I completely revamped my approach to travel planning. The result? That year, I visited five best destinations in East Africa, Ng'orong'oro conservation area, Manyara and Tarangire National park in Tanzania, Nairobi national park, Thomson falls in Kenya and Mzuzu in Malawi. You can do it too!

Use Travel Guidebooks.

Make Google your friend.

I mean, people consult Google for all manner of queries.

Surprisingly though, a streak of laziness suddenly strikes when it’s time to google something as simple as “How can I afford to travel?”.

A simple Google search would ‘reveal’ to you that Asia and Europe is rife of dirt cheap budget air, train, and ferry travel options.

Travel is way more affordable than other every-day life habits, such as ordering take-away coffee every day or something.

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Breakdown expenses Divide the expected cost of your trip by the number of months you have before leaving to figure out how much money you’ll need to save.

Holiday Weekends Holiday weekends are often the most expensive time to fly and book hotels. If you have unused vacation time at work, travel during the week, which can reduce costs.

Extend a Business Trip.

It’s one of the best ways to travel. We always prioritize paid time off since traveling is important. Your company paid for your round trip flight, plus your hotel accommodations may extend the discounted business rate for your personal stay.

Take advantage of business trips to travel more.

If you want to catch a glimpse of my soul, start by taking a glance at my Google search history, you will be forgiven for thinking that I am always on vacation.

Almost all of my searches start the same way: “what are the visa requirements for Tanzanian passport holders? Which countries can Tanzania nationals travel to visa free? Travel contests, travel competitions, Visa on arrival countries etc.

Don’t get me wrong, I feel very blessed for the opportunity to travel far and wide.

Planning to travel?

Royal vacations is a travel agency with a touch of excellence and diversity. We aim to revolutionize travel by creating spaces for young people to impact the ecosystem as they express their voices about the environment. We pride in being able to organize both domestic and international travels to your satisfaction.

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