COUNTY NEWS

TOURISM

Tourists to land in Tobiko: Masaai Mara Why Lenku directly will see dust

Slow start for Ruto in Kajiado »» Page 4

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RELAYING FRESH NEWS FROM

ISSUE NO. 111

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KAJIADO & NAROK COUNTIES

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER, 2021

KSHS. 60.00 / TSH.1080

2022: Maa leaders endorse Raila

...Local wrangles, however, play out ahead of next August General Election

M

aa leaders and professionals have now endorsed ODM Party leader Raila Amolo Odinga

to succeed President Uhuru Muigai Kenyatta in 2022 in a major declaration in Ongata Rongai, Kajiado County recently.

The delegates drawn from six

counties Kajiado, Narok, Laikipia, Nakuru, Baringo and Samburu listed community issues that Raila will solve come 2022.

The leaders in a declaration

WOMEN EMPOWERMENT

AGRICULTURE

Narok farmers receive newly tested acaricides

»» Pages 18

Women Fund Bill gets nod »» Page 3

Hon. Yvonne Tonkei Chairperson Sectoral Committee on Gender, Tourism, Wildlife, Youth and Sports.

read by former Kajiado Central MP David Sankori said the Maasai have agreed to endorse the former PM.

»» PAGE 5

HEALTH

The elderly hesitant to take up Covid-19 vaccines

»» Page 14

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COUNTY PRESS

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER, 2021

POLITICS

I will oust Lenku, declares MP Tobiko T

By Abdi Hussein Hussein abdi527@gmail.com

he entry of the fiery Kajiado East MP Peris Peris Tobiko into the 2022 Kajiado county gubernatorial race signifies cut-throat campaigns with some aspirants retracting into their sectional cocoons for a political game plan change.

The second term legislator who manoeuvred the murky world of politics in 2013 against odds to become the first elected Maasai female MP opines that the county began on the wrong footing since the inception of devolved government but it went off road when the incumbent, Governor Joseph Lenku took power in 2017.

In an exclusive interview with County Press held at a Kitengela hotel recently, the 51 years old ‘darling’ of Kajiado East constituents, arrived on time for the interview, seraphic smile on her face with confident steps that come with power. It was, however, not the perfect venue to hold an interview with a leader of her calibre, but seemingly she didn’t mind. She exuded confidence, her vision painted by her soft, but firm words. She is perhaps holding the "Magic stick" to correct the political mistakes made by the past regimes.

The decorated legislator, recently feted as the best performing Kajiado county MP in county gala awards, prides herself in transforming the education sector in her constituency.

She says that in the two terms she has been able to improve the existing and also set up new primary and secondary schools, reducing the numbers of students who used to trek to Athi River in search of education.

"I have achieved a milestone in education sector. The new Magereza Secondary School is currently full to the brim with more than 1,000 students. Utumishi Primary School accommodates more than 600 pupils from poor families. We have also improved and extended Kitengela GK primary school and Norkopir primary schools," stated Ms Tobiko.

In interior of the cosmopolitan constituency, she says she has introduced boarding facilities and teachers housing programmes to accommodate teachers after the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) introduced teachers delocalisation leaving non-indigenous teachers in limbo.

The alumna of University of Nairobi with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and a Master’s degree in the same field has introduced an annual Sh1 million trophy of excellence in each division meant to encourage students to perform well.

The money is used to cater for the winning school’s priority needs.

"Kajiado East currently does not have mud structures in schools like in other constituencies. We have improved education standards with 100 percent primary to secondary transition. More students are joining universities and tertiary institutions," said the legislator whose name features prominently in "Women and power" forums.

Our interview is continuously disrupted by the buzzing of her two mobile phones. Short text messages were seemingly dropping in thick and fast. At one point she shared the content of one of the messages from a constituent written in the Maasai dialect seemingly to describe how messy and volatile the county is.

"Mum etua apa ena county iyie kianyita oooyiei siake kincho enkai pee ilotu aitopiu-Mom this county is dead we are waiting for you, may God grant you favour so that you come and redeem us," read the message.

Ms Tobiko boasts of newly tarmacked Kajiado-Imaroro-Isiara "saviour" road saying she continuously lobbied for the road until the national government came to the locals’ rescue. She says the road has transformed lives and has become a major artery that is driving the region’s economy.

Also she takes credit for the Street lighting programme in urban centres and several tarmac roads including Kitengela prison and deliverance roads, rehabilitation of a dozen rural roads among other projects under the national government.

"Am a member of National Assembly transport committee giving me a head start to lobby for my constituents. Kajiado East constituency is cosmopolitan and we have managed not only to initiate development projects but also unite people. Our diversity has become our strength," she noted, adding that bursary allocation in her constituency is done in the most transparent manner, ensuring all needy children are given priority.

Early in June 2021 more than 1,500 needy students from Kajiado East Subcounty benefited from Sh13 million emergency bursary fund meant to cushion poor parents hard hit by Covid-19 pandemic effects.

A decision was reached by Kajiado East Constituency Development Fund (CDF) committee after realising more needy students were not in school after the first regular disbursement of bursary at the beginning of the year, she said, adding that urban centres were the hardest hit.

The legislator takes issue with Kitengela water supply false start, claiming the county government bungled the project. She noted that after President Uhuru’s directive the county government was required to set up eight kiosks but only managed four kiosks. She said currently residents are suffering due to high water rationing and accused the county leadership of politicizing the exercise leaving locals grappling with acute water shortage.

"I lobbied intensely but the county leadership felt I was interfering. We are past kiosks, in 21st

‘

century people need piped water connected to their homes. We have mushrooming highrise buildings all over. Its our mothers who used to carry water jerricans on their backs," she observed bitterly.

In a moment during the interview she posed, breathed hard after staring ahead and bitterly blamed the incumbent governor, her political nemesis, for "messing up" the county.

"Sometimes I don’t understand the governor, I sometimes sympathise with him because I don't think he is playing politics. Sometimes I see he is clueless. He is not in touch with the needs of the people," she claimed.

A wife and mother of four, Ms Tobiko, a shrewd politician known for "straight talk" politics believes she is the best bet to turn around the county at the helm of governorship.

Riding on her constituency development record springboard, she

ferent leadership styles.

After the 2017 elections Ms Tobiko says she extended an olive branch to the newly elected governor to bury the hatchet and forge a unity of purpose beyond their political differences, but the governor allegedly fronted adverse conditions.

"It did not matter whether I supported him during the 2017 campaigns, but we had to work together for our people. He gave conditions; first was to "hand over " my entire campaign team to him and "surrender" in a public gathering. I could not, I cant, I won't," she said.

She poured cold water on county employment procedures, terming it skewed characterised by alleged nepotism and dozens of ghost workers who have no job description but allegedly continue to draw salary from public coffers.

"Jobs ought to be given on merit but not favouritism. It's so unfortuKajiado East legislator Peris Tobiko who is eyeing county gubernatorial seat emphasizes a point during the interview with County Press.

believes she is better placed to cascade her development agenda in the entire county. She believes in devolved functions touching positively the lives of people.

"The county currently needs a keen person, a performer and accountable person. A person who will be able to solve a puzzle of a county with huge resources that doesn't reflect into services," she pointed out.

The legislator tore down the current County administration, blaming it for crumbling systems unfinished abandoned projects, citing Kajiado town mega library, Ngong stadium among others.

She castigates the current administration faulting it over alleged financial unaccountability wondering how government agencies have not zeroed in to probe the county on resources alleged mismanagement.

"Kajiado county operates on a jungle law; trial and error. Nothing is working. Every one is frustrated. Its a one man show. We have unimaginable unpaid bills and unpaid workers. Out of 10 points I generously give my brother Lenku administration two points," said Ms Tobiko.

Despite the two leaders oftenly going for each other's jugular that they hardly share a podium, Ms Tobiko insists it is not personal but dif-

nate for people of Kajiado," she added.

In a time Kajiado politics are shaping up in readiness to next year's succession of National politics, MP Tobiko says she is not waiting for any political endorsement from any politician, adding that she will be ready to lose hands down in free and fair elections.

"I do not believe in freebies. My political journey is that of determination and resilience. My competitors are moneyed but I will give them a run for their money. In fact, its our money taken from public coffers," she said unapologetically.

She says she expects a lot of propaganda, abuses but says she has stamina to surmount whatever challenge will come by before the next August elections.

She terms politicians preparing to ride on sectional politics as short sighted leaders who are not in touch of the reality, urging the Maa community to wake up and smell the coffee. County Press can authoritatively report that some politicians are secretly pushing for Odomong’i Maasai section (red cow) and Orokiteng’ section (black cow) politics that has dominated Kajiado gubernatorial race in the last two general elections.

"Maasai sectional politics time is long time gone. Natives stand at 39

Kajiado county operates on a jungle law; trial and error. Nothing is working.

Everyone is frustrated. It's a one man show. We have unimaginable unpaid bills and unpaid workers. Out of 10 points I generously give my brother Lenku administration two points.- Ms Tobiko.

percent on voters population while migrants take the lion's share of 61 percent. Even if some selfish individuals advance sectional politics, I might even benefit more by virtue of birth and marriage," she noted, dismissing the sectional politics notion saying Kajiado electorates are ready for female governors like Kitui and Kirinyaga counties.

She observed that there will be a change of political tides in Kajiado county towards general election insisting the incumbent will not be favoured by any political euphoria. She claims Governor Lenku has failed miserably arguing that no political party can redeem him.

"If deep state want to fail let them bring the current governor to people, If deep state want to fail let him place their bet on the current governor," she added/ Ms Tobiko says the current administration has failed the satellite towns' electorates who propelled the governor to power under Jubilee party euphoria, adding that retail markets are a mess besides uncollected garbage, poor towns planning with no proper water provision.

Confident with high ambitions to clinch the governorship she is banking on the youth and women constituency in swing votes urban centres that form the populous metropolitan part of Kajiado county to rally behind her.

"The women and youths in our county need someone who understands their needs.They need financial backup and not handouts from the county government," she said.

Gifted with oratory skills, she says any gubernatorial post competitor apart from the incumbent is a "worthy" competitor.

She describes the former NTSA boss Francis Meja as a man who can be able to articulate issues maturely.

To her, former governor, her longtime political buddy, Dr David Nkedianye, she says, would only qualify for county secretary position in her administration for his undoubted keenness on systems and the rule of law. Dr Nkedianye will be seeking a second term riding on his scorecard after losing to Governor Lenku in 2017 elections.

To her, Kajiado South MP, the long serving Member of Parliament in the county currently eyeing governorship, is a "good friend" with whom she can sit for a cup of tea and talk politics.

"For Mheshimiwa Katoo, we can speak. He qualifies to deputise me as my deputy governor," adds Ms Tobiko without clarifying if the two are in any talks for political pact.

Political pundits note MP Tobiko is not a political pushover saying Kajiado 2022 gubernatorial hotly contested race is characterised by high voltage campaigns. On the other hand, Governor Lenku is on record saying he will defend his seat robustly. On who will succeed her as Kajiado East MP she is non-committal, laying a level playing ground for all hopefuls. Currently more than 12 candidates including nominated senator Mary Seneta have registered their interests.

The Jubilee party stalwart says she will be steadfast in Jubilee political party supporting President Kenyatta wing -Kieleweke-until the end of his term when she will make an informed decision on which political party to join after thorough consultation with her supporters.

"Whatever political vehicle Kajiado county political constituency chooses, will be my choice too.

Where they will go, I shall go.Their preferred presidential candidate will be mine.Their God will be my God," she concluded.

See related story Page 6

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER, 2021

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COUNTY PRESS

POLITICS

Maa leaders: Why we want to vote as bloc

Since independence, Central Kenya, Nyanza, North Rift, Coast have been voting as a bloc thus increasing their bargaining power in government. As leaders we should also follow suit and put our votes in one basket come next election -Lenku.

Top political leaders of the Maa community have kicked off talks that will see them work together ahead of the 2022 General Election.

According to the leaders who include governors, senators, MPs and ward representatives from five Maa speaking counties, the move is aimed at motivating the community to vote as a bloc and boost their political bargaining power.

The Maa leaders’ sentiments were voiced at the burial of Dorcas Ntimama, widow to the late William ole Ntimama, the fiery community spokesman who died in 2016.

The burial was attended by ODM leader Raila Odinga who left before the local leaders made their speeches, as he had other prior engagements elsewhere.

During the burial in Narok County, the leaders ignited the talks pointing out that the efforts to unite supporters Maa-speaking people from Narok, Kajiado, Sam-

Dorcas Ntimama

buru, Laikipia and Baringo will not only enhance their political stake, but to also decide who will carry the Maa leadership mantle, a position last occupied by the late Ntimama for decades.

Kajiado Governor Joseph ole Lenku who is the Chair of the

recently formed Narok-Kajiado Economic Bloc (NAKAEB), stirred the debate when he called on the Maa leaders to put their political differences aside and unite the community to vote as a bloc come August next year.

“Since independence, central Kenya, Nyanza, North Rift, Coast have been voting as a bloc thus increasing their bargaining power in government. As leaders we should also follow suit and put our votes in one basket come next election,” stated Mr Lenku.

With the 2022 leading Presidential candidates led by ODM leader Raila Odinga and UDAallied Deputy President William Ruto each having a section of the community leaders by their side, the community’s unity remains uncertain.

Narok Senator Ledama ole Kina said the community's political support should not be taken for granted.

“If anyone wants to get the

Raila Odinga eulogising Dorcas Ntimama during her burial in Narok.

Maasai vote he should be ready to show us what he or she has done or what they will do for us to warrant him or her our vote. We recently saw President Uhuru Kenyatta take goodies to Ukambani.

We also want him to bring us our

goodies too,” Mr Ledama added.

The Senator’s sentiments were echoed by Narok North legislator Moitalel ole Kenta who said the community will only work with a presidential candidate who has the interest of the community at heart.

“If you have shown that you detest my community then definitely you should not expect any vote from us. We shall ensure that we remain together for us to be heard,” Mr Kenta said.

Governor Tunai, who is the founder of the NAKAEB, said unity among Maa speaking people was paramount.

“We have tried with Governor Lenku to bring our two counties together. Last year we had a mega Maa prayers day in Narok and this year we are holding it in Kajiado.

It is possible for the Maa counties to work together,”said Governor Tunai.

See related story Page 5

Women Fund Bill gets Kajiado County Assembly nod Once enacted into law the registered women self-help groups will be supported to get a minimum amount of Sh 100,000 to a maximum of Sh300,000. Established institutions like women Saccos and other authorized businesses run by women have not less than fifty members.

By Abdi Hussein

The Kajiado County Assembly early in June 2021 passed a bill that will see womenfolk get funds for their economic empowerment.

Ms Yvonne Tonkei, Chairperson sectoral committee on Gender, Tourism, Wildlife, Youth and Sports said that women for years have faced challenges economically and at that time modern governance looked into the welfare and situations of the women in the society.

The Committee chair said that supporting women economically is in the spirit of devolution that must be embraced.

“It’s true we recently supported and passed the Kajiado County Women Empowerment Fund Bill, this will be a milestone to Kajiado County considering that our cultural practices have never been favourable to women. A woman only owns milk that is produced by the cow, but not the animal. We want to see women investing in animals. We want to see women owning land and using the land as a resource for the purpose of leveraging their livelihoods,” stated Yvonne Tonkei Kajiado County Women Empowerment Fund Bill, 2021 now sets the pace for a County legislation

Hon. Yvonne Tonkei Chairperson Sectoral Committee on Gender, Tourism, Wildlife, Youth and Sports giving her views on the Bill recently.

Photo/Abdi Hussein

that will see women in the pastoral community benefit for economic purposes. The fund will establish a framework for involving women in economic activities, training and build capacity for women.

It will assist in the eradication of poverty through economic empowerment of women, she said.

Nominated Member of County

Assembly Patricia Mbaaria underscored the fact that women are not doing well economically as a result of lack of seed capital from the institutions that offer credit facilities.

“A woman in a rural setting or the slums of our major towns is faced with challenges associated with finance. Larger percentage of women lack collaterals that are enablers for starting viable businesses.

This bill will give women and the community based organisations donations and grants which will act as eye openers to women to rely on their creativity and business ventures,“ noted Mbaaria.

Ms Mbaaria, the special elect member added that the fund will boost women already in existing businesses with additional capital to expand their entrepreneurial ventures.

Joshua Oluwuasa of Kaputiei North Ward said that supporting women will go a long way in improving the economic standards of the families.

“This is an important bill that envisages women being role models for the young girls who are growing up. It will encourage thousands of school aged girls to value education and work hard to be future leaders and managers in established busi-

nesses,” said Oluwuasa.

Once enacted into law the registered women self help groups will be supported to get a minimum amount of Sh 100,000 to a maximum of Sh300,000. Established institutions like women Saccos and other authorized businesses run by women have not less than fifty members.

For sustainability purposes, the law will outline the viability of the business idea or concept, financial risks involved and the capitalization and asset capability of the business.

Kajiado County Assembly will also be tasked with annual appropriation

of the fund which will be disbursed as the revolving fund.

Ms Joyce Wahome, a business lady based at Kitengela said that the law should ensure that the fund isn’t prone to corruption or misuse, but serves the right institutions.

“If this fund is properly expended, the fact is we shall see thousands of women grow economically. It is only unfortunate if it is misused as a result of corruption and possibly discrimination. We call on the County Government to live to the spirit of devolution and mean well to the great women of this county,” observed Wahome

Members of the public attending the Public Participation forum on Kajiado County Women empowerment Bill, 2021 at Ongata Rongai Social Hall recently. Photo/Abdi Hussein

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COUNTY PRESS

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER, 2021

POLITICS

United Democratic Alliance (UDA) adherents stuck as DP strategists query choice of campaign leading lights

Slow start for Ruto in Kajiado as Uhuru, Raila allies close ranks

By Abdi Hussein

train, their political activities ground to a halt,” said Waichanguru.

The Nkaimurunya MCA cited several cases where the MCAs were forced to announce promises of contribution by the DP in church harambees until it started backfiring on them.

“You see, their opportunism led them to short term gains. Now they are unable to return to Governor Lenku’s fold because they were replaced in this fold by Opposition MCAs and their Ward competitors,” said Waichanguru.

On the other hand, Governor Lenku’s team enjoys public platforms through facilitated County functions with Mr Kenyatta also supporting, through the Governor, initiatives such as morans ceremonies and fundraisers.

Political allies of President Uhuru Kenyatta, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka have closed ranks in readiness for the 2022 elections in Kajiado county seemingly stalling the initial momentum started by Deputy President William Ruto’s lieutenants.

The Jubilee, ODM and Wiper axis both in Parliament and the County Assembly and the emerging need to crack the numbers to win county seats seem to have converged after high level engagements to craft a winning formula in the cosmopolitan county.

Kajiado has in the past one year become a theatre of national political strategy meetings with almost all leading Presidential hopefuls having a chance to have a feel of the ground, effectively sucking in local political players.

The Kenyatta, Odinga, Kalonzo forces are firmly supporting Governor Joseph ole Lenku’s re-election bid while Mr Ruto’s foot soldiers are rooting for veteran Kajiado South MP Katoo ole Metito to oust Lenku.

The Ruto team seems to have run out of steam since January this year, with eight Jubilee MCAs allied to him failing to conduct a single political meeting.

The MCAs, largely former allies of Mr Kenyatta, have been locked out of County functions attended by Lenku, effectively denying them platforms to talk politics.

Access to Mr Ruto’s Karen home has also been limited to County delegations once every four months apparently denying them the required resources for ground work.

Similarly, Mr Metito and Mr Ruto’s preferred senatorial candidate Daniel Tenaai, and Kajiado West MP George Sunkuyia have also been unable to kick off Deputy President William Ruto. registration of United Democratic Alliance (UDA), creating a doubt about the camThe latest support in this form was repaigners’ ability to penetrate the Kajiado urban ground, often perceived to hold the cent weekend fundraiser in aid of former county magic matchstick for a gubernato- Kajiado West MP Moses ole Sakuda’s medical bills where Mr Lenku delivered the rial win.

Initially, Mr Ruto, buoyed by growing President’s personal contribution of Sh1.5 support in urban areas, seemed to have set million. During the fundraiser Governor his eyes on marketing his State House bid Lenku crossed path with the former goverto the diaspora of Mt Kenya, but the lack of nor David Nkedianye who is rooting to oust resources of his pointmen has come under Lenku in forthcoming elections.

“I handed you a bus as a driver but you sharp focus.

Although Mr Metito has served as have not been able to get our people to the MP for eighteen years, he has been con- destination. The bus is full of pick pockets. spicuously absent on the ground, with the Am waiting to go back behind the wheels occasional political funfare only being through 2022 elections,” said Nkedianye witnessed when the DP has a function in during the fundsdrive rubbing Governor Kajiado. Covid-19 protocols has negatively Lenku the wrong way who in turn harsly slowed the “hustler mantra” crusaders clip- dismissed Mr Nkedianye amid applause from his supporters. pling their wings.

In a bid to counter the Ruto-allied County Assembly Majority whip James Waichanguru acknowledges the Ruto wing MCAs opposition, Mr Lenku moved fast in Kajiado is experiencing a dry spell as to craft a working relationship with Mr “support from Karen” has not been forth- Odinga, winning ODM party’s MCAs. The charm offensive further led him to Wiper, coming.

“Just like their leader (Mr Metito), they with Mr Musyoka said to have instructed were expecting a windfall from the DP. his three elected MCAs to cast their lot with When brakes were slammed on this gravy the Governor. The new political dalliance

between Mr Lenku and Mr Kalonzo targets to consolidate large numbers of the Kamba community in urban centres in support of Mr Lenku re-election.

Lenku and Musyoka have been holding joint functions in the county which has a substantial presence of the Kamba community.

ODM’s Kajiado Central MP Memusi Kanchory and Nominated Senator Judith Pareno lead Mr Odinga’s allies in Lenku’s camp while two term Kajiado North MP Joseph Manje leads Mr Kenyatta’s allies.

In his arithmetic, Mr Ruto may have been led to back Mr Metito to attract the influential Odomong’i section (red cow) which had backed former Governor David Nkedianye to a man in 2013 and 2017. ExNTSA boss and gubernatorial hopeful Francis Meja and Kajiado East MP Peris Tobiko also hail from this section which has for many years dominated Kajiado politics.

Lenku comes from the populous Orokiteng’ section (black cow) and Mr Kenyatta and Mr Odinga may have felt the section’s huge numbers would be instrumental in case of a joint Handshake presidential bid.

Governor Lenku does not mince his words on the unfolding Handshake versus Tanga Tanga competition. “We shall continue working with the President and Mr Odinga in both “development” and political engagements. All I can say is that we shall still be in the next government, whatever it takes.” says Lenku.

Former Kajiado Senator Peter Mositet said some selfish leaders are instigating political animosity and intolerance at the expense of pushing for a development agenda for the electorates.

“I think Tanga Tanga has slowed down in Kajiado after DP Ruto realised his foot soldiers were double edged and self centred.

The political intolerance witnessed during the late Nairobi Speaker Alex Magelo and former Kajiado West Moses Sakuda medical fund drive recently sets a bad precedent towards general election,” said Mositet While Lenku is eyeing the Handshake ticket, Ruto strategists seem torn between Mr Metito and Dr Nkedianye, who pundits aver may find it difficult to find space in the Handshake competition with Lenku.

Ms Tobiko says she is the best bet to replace Governor Lenku insisting a time is ripe to try a female leadership to steer development.

“We have supported my two brothers (Lenku and Nkedianye) consecutively. We know where they have failed. Lets now try women leadership in Kajiado. Am in the ring in full throttle,” said Ms Tobiko Mr Meja is yet to find a footing in any of the national political formations with his close allies hinting at running as an Independent candidate or joining one of the smaller political outfits such as the People’s Progressive Party (PPK) whose leadership is from Kajiado West, his home area. Attempts to reach him for a comment were futile.

Two Narok MPs lock horns over 2022 presidential contest

By Ben Leshau

Two Narok MPs have differed over the ruling of the Court of Appeal on the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) Constitutional (Amendment) Bill 2020.

Narok North MP Moitalel ole Kenta who is ODM leader Raila Odinga ally and area Woman Rep Soipan Tuya, a close confidant of Deputy President William Ruto, separately offered different views on the ruling.

While Kenta downplayed Ms Tuya’s assertion that the judgement favoured Ruto’s presidential bid in 2022, he raised some reservations on the BBI document.

“The ‘Tanga Tanga’ adherents should not celebrate yet because the Handshake is still alive. Raila Odinga’s race to the State House is even stronger now that we have President Uhuru Kenyatta on our side,” said Mr Kenta.

The ODM elected lawmaker has however pledged that his party will give DP Ruto

Moitalel ole Kenta Photo/Ben Leshau

Soipan Tuya brigade a run for their money in next year’s general election reiterating that the Maa community will stick with Mr Odinga and President Kenyatta to the end.

Mr Kenta also questioned the IEBC quorum and the fate of the by-elections that the commission had conducted in the recent past.

“We have got 10 months to go and I can assure you as a leader from Narok that we are ready for 2022.The court decision was not Tanga Tanga’s and I wonder why they are celebrating and mentioning God like they have a monopoly,”added Kenta.

Ms Tuya on the other side reiterated that the BBI defeat was a huge boost to DP Ruto’s bid since the basis of the judgement vindicated DP’s concerns on the document.

The County MP exuded confidence in the women leadership in the country saying the BBI was a blow to the gender rule and was seeking to reduce women to ‘flower girls’ through massive nominations to Parliament.

The woman leader who has declared interest in the Narok gubernatorial race revealed that the recent BBI judgement will not hamper her bid.

“My ambition to be Narok Governor is not changed by BBI decision.I am still going for it. For the 10 years I served as Woman Rep, I have built muscle and I’m out to demonstrate that women can vie for competitive position,” said Ms Tuya.

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COUNTY PRESS

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POLITICS

2022: Maa leaders endorse Raila for the presidency There is currently marginalization of some parts of Kenya and the Maasai. We came with up with counties in the 2010 Constitution but others opposed it. We will continue to push for more funds and resources to the counties.

Delegates drawn from six counties listed community issues that Raila will solve.

By Obegi Malack obegimalack@gmail.com

M

aa leaders and professionals have now endorsed ODM Party leader Raila Amolo Odinga to succeed President Uhuru Muigai Kenyatta in 2022 in a major declaration in Ongata Rongai, Kajiado County recently.

The delegates drawn from six counties Kajiado, Narok, Laikipia, Nakuru, Baringo and Samburu listed community issues that Raila will solve come 2022.

The leaders in a declaration read by former Kajiado Central MP David Sankori said the Maasais have agreed to endorse the former PM. The leaders said Raila’s policies will solve issues affecting the Maa community in the country. They said they will consolidate their numbers for Raila. They noted that they support the government policies, the Big Four agenda by President Uhuru Kenyatta.

“BBI was a positive effort to unite our country, we renew our commitment for peace and cohesion, unite our people and be part of the nation conversation,” he said.

They acknowledged support they have been receiving from the National government and acknowledging Raila for solving challenges facing Maa counties among them restoring the Mau Forest.

Raila said he will build a country where every community benefits from the government and he urged the leaders to unite for the benefit of the community which, he said, has been receiving a raw deal from colonial times to after independence.

“There is currently marginalization of some parts of Kenya and the Maasai. We came with up with counties in the 2010 Constitution but others opposed it. We will continue to push for more funds and resources to the

counties,” Raila reiterated.

Raila said BBI would have seen additional billions added to pastoralists counties to enable them receive more services, adding that financial allocation to Kajiado county would have increased by Sh6.3 billion from the current Sh6.4 billion to Sh12.8 billion while Narok County would have received Sh5 billion more from up from Sh8 billion to Sh13 billion and Samburu would have benefited from an additional Sh2 billion from Sh 4.6 billion to Sh 6.5 billion.

Raila received support from Environment Cabinet Secretary Keriako Tobiko, Kajiado County Governor Joseph ole Lenku former National Assembly Speaker Francis ole Kaparo who have never supported him in two elections.

CS Tobiko said the leaders who included public servants attended the political meeting since politics affect every leader.

“We did not come for handouts, these people sold their livestock to come here to endorse the partnership between the Maa nation and Raila,” he said. The CS noted that Raila has earned the community trust because of sacrificing his political career by restoring the Maa forest.

Leaders who spoke during the meeting challenged the national government to solve land historical issues facing the community.

Narok Senator Ledama ole Kina said there should be revisiting of lease agreements on Laikipia land. “We want a legal process to compensate our people from what was taken from them in Laikipia,” he said.

Kajiado Central MP Memusi Kanchori said Raila’s leadership in 2022 should focus on education and roads mostly in Maasai land. He said the community has been neglected for long.

The MP’s sentiments were echoed by Kajiado East MP Peris Tobiko who said the community has not received their share in the

Raila Odinga. current regime. She said the community should have been awarded positions by the current government.

“The President has been having meetings to unite the Kikuyu community let him call his people from the Jubilee Party and give us direction” she said.

Former National Assembly Speaker Francis ole Kaparo said the Maa community should stay harmoniously with other communities who have purchased land from them.

The former chairman of the National Cohesion and Integration Commission said Laikipia which is experiencing skirmishes is inhabited by many communities and leaders should be careful on their utterances.

Narok North MP Moitalel Ole Kenta said the leaders should ensure everyone is a registered voter to increase their numbers and vote as a bloc.

Kajiado County local politics, however, took centre stage with gubernatorial

aspirant Tarayia ole Kores challenging Governor Lenku to declare his stand. He claimed the leader had been linked to OKA alliance.

“We should have a stand, Lenku endorsed Kalonzo he should endorse Raila and should be final decision,” he said, adding that there are local conflicts that need to be resolved.

Governor Lenku on his part said is still a Jubilee Party member, adding that he supports the handshake coalition. He noted that he appointed ODM politicians in his government for the sake of unity in the county.

“We should unite and vote as a bloc and should not have swing votes, our votes are more than a million and can be beneficial to the us,” he said. He said the unity will continue through council of elders to ensure the community puts their votes in one basket.

“I call on our friends from ODM who are against the Azimio la Umoja to stop the wrangles, we are in one

house of handshake,” he added.

Former Kajiado governor David Nkedianye said things are not good when it comes to local leadership, adding that there should be meetings for every county to solve the local conflicts.

Former senator Peter Mositet said Raila is the only leader who has been committed in championing Maa community rights. He noted that he (Raila) had awarded them land title for Kibiko and demanded the sheep and goat land title and veterinary land to be given to the community.

Mositet said local leaders should put aside local political differences, adding that the party will have nominations to ensure electorates have their democratic rights to vote for their leaders.

Woman activist Perfume Lemaletian who is vying for woman representative in Samburu County protested killing of Maa livestock.

She said Raila should have a meeting with the President to find a lasting solution for Laikipia conflict.

Other leaders present were former MP Junet Mohammed, former PS Richard Lesiyampe, former Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero, Lydia Ntimama ( daughter of Ole Ntimama) and former Laikipia North MP Matthew Lempurkel several Kajiado MCAs among others.

On the same day of the declaration DP William Ruto was also in Enkasiti, Kitengela Kajiado County where he promised to solve challenges facing pastoralists. His meeting was attended by Kajiado SenatorPhillip Mpaayei, George Sunkuyia (MP Kajiado West), Nixon Korir (MP Lang’ata), George Theuri (MP Embakasi West), Katoo ole Metito (MP Kajiado South), and Mary Seneta (Nominated senator). He also received Amos Ntimama (son of former minister William ole Ntimama) and Anthony Keen (son of former minister John Keen) in his residence in Karen.

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SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER, 2021

Why MP Tobiko may pick deputy governor from Kajiado North

By Obegi Malack obegimalack@gmail.com Kajiado East MP Peris Tobiko has taken her campaign for gubernatorial position to Kajiado North sub county urging voters from the two regions to vote as a bloc.

The legislator attended church service and fundraising in True Sons Manifestation International Kajiado North with North MP aspirant Andrew Nyangwansa and other politicians from the region.

Tobiko faulted Governor Joseph ole Lenku whom he accused of allegedlyfailing to provide services in North and East constituencies. “The current regime has failed to provide services in the two regions,” she claimed.

Tobiko who is the first woman MP in Maasai land said the governor has failed to provide services in cosmopolitan regions and the locals should unite to send him home in 2022.

She alleged the governor does not provide services in the area since it is occupied by non-

The MP who is serving her second term said the region commands more than half of votes in the county, but has been neglected even after voting for the current regime. She said job positions in the county are awarded to people from one region.

Maasais.

“The governor declared to be spokesperson of one community but for me I will be the spokesperson of all communities living in the county,” she claimed.

The MP who is serving her second term said the region commands more than half of votes in the county, but has been neglected even after voting for the current regime. She said job positions in the county are awarded to people from one region.

Lenku has, however, said

MP Peris Tobiko.

Photo/Obegi Malack

he has employed many people from other communities besides providing required services in the region. He accused the MP of engaging in propaganda and failing as an MP to improve livelihoods of Kajiado East residents.

“We carry more than 50 percent of Kajiado county votes, but in the county the governor, senator, women representative, speaker, majority leader position were taken to other regions,” Tobiko said. She urged the locals

to vote for any presidential candidate, but choose their own for governor position for equal representation.

The MP’s statements were a clear indication that she needs votes from the region. She is the only gubernatorial aspirant who has publicly claimed the regions lacks representation in the county.

According to political analysts, MP Tobiko has gained a lot from other communities who have settled in Kajiado and in her constituency most votes are from non-Maasais. At one time elders held a ceremony where they cursed her but she held prayers in the same venue to reverse the curse.

Sources indicate Tobiko may be wooing politicians from the region to deputize her and she is targeting two communities Kisiis and Kikuyu community for the positions. Kajiado North MP Joseph Manje who is yet to declare his presidential candidate may be among politicians she is wooing, sources said.

“We want her to choose from the two communities, if she chooses a Kikuyu, a Kisii should

be supported for MP seat in North and vice versa,” a source indicated.

Tobiko said she has been classified as a person from outside Kajiado by her opponents who have directed her community the Maa to reject her.

Former governor David ole Nkedianye in his latest meeting in North was also challenged by electorates to appoint his deputy from North. The governor’s close aides had advised him to appoint deputy from the other Maasai sections in order to receive majority Maasai votes.

The selection of deputy governor has been a challenge to the gubernatorial aspirants and at one time Oloolua Ward MCA Njogu Kimemia was photoshopped as deputy governor to MP Katoo ole Metito.

In an interview with this reporter Njogu said he has no plans to deputize any governor, adding that the electorates needs services not positions. He noted that his conversation with Katoo has been to push for electorates to receive equal representation in the coming government.

FASHION & BEAUTY

Tips to ensure you’re always stylish

By Rosemil Oduor Photo/Courtesy

Taking care of our dressing is just as important as taking care of the skin.

T

aking care of our dressing is just as important as taking care of the skin. Dressing in a stylish way is a skill that seems almost impossible to master yet it’s a simple thing. These tips can help: Many have always mistaken fashion for clothes only.

Wear clothes that fit.

This is the biggest secret to looking smart. When buying clothes, fit them on to ensure the cloth is your size. You can also opt to hire a tailor who will take your measurements and ensure the tailored cloth fits you well.

Know the dress code of where you’re going and dress accordingly.

Wash, dry and iron your cloth.

Iron your clothes to remove the wrinkles. Ironing clothes makes them look smarter so you’ll definite-

ly look good in them.

If you’re a lady, bear in mind the type of undergarments you wear.

Having a loosely fitting brassiere or one that makes strips ruins the appearance of even the most stylish dresses.

Wear neutrals. This is mostly for professional office dress code.

Keep minimal accessories that match your dressing. Do not overdo!

Shop exactly for what you want.

Do not just pick any cloth to fill your wardrobe when you know you might not put on the piece of clothing again.

Consider the quality of your materials. Good materials make one feel good and look rich compared to cheap fabric.

Find a personal style. Experiment with different types of clothing until you find what suits you well and stick with it. Remember what looks good on another might not look good on you.

Be confident in your style.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER, 2021

Shoot to kill order targets livestock thieves

By Abdi Hussein Kajiado County Commissioners Joshua Nkanatha has issued shoot-to-kill order targeting armed livestock thieves who have been terrorizing county livestock farmers in the past six months.

In the last six months more than 2,000 goats and sheep are said to have been stolen by unknown assailants in what is perceived to be a well orchestrated scheme by certain well connected individuals working in cahoot with unscrupulous local livestock brokers.

The suspects reportedly round up livestock at night before they are ferried using get away trucks to various Nairobi county livestock markets. Sources said that severally stolen herds have allegedly been traced to Dagoreti and Kamaiko livestock markets. Kajiado East and West sub counties bear the major brunt of the livestock theft, the source said.

Recently, thieves broke into Mr Kesam Ole Makui Enkasiti’s homestead in Isinya Subcounty, in the dead of night and stole his entire herd of sheep and goats numbering 78 animals.

According to him, he never heard any movement only to find his entire herd valued at 600,000 gone. He said his dogs never barked to alert him as usual, noting that the theft remains mysterious.

A new livestock theft trend has emerged in Isinya

Joshua Nkanata, Kajiado County Commissioner. sub county where dogs are poisoned, and one goat or sheep is slaughtered and raw blood is sprinkled at the entrance of the homestead by suspects.

In between May and June 2021, more than 300 goats were reportedly stolen in a similar fashon that saw irate members arrest three suspects and trail some of the stolen goats to Githunguri in Kiambu County.

To curb the escalating livestock theft, Kajiado County Commissioner Joshua Nkanatha issued a shoot-to-kill order against suspected armed livestock thieves.

Mr Nkanatha directed the security apparatus not to hesitate to use maximum force to subdue the armed suspects who refuse to surrender when cornered.

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“We know the suspects are armed and dangerous. We will not allow these selfish individuals continue stealing from the innocent Kenyans.

We have put up stringent measures to curb livestock. Security apparatus will not hesitate to shoot the suspects,” said Nkanatha, adding that security personnel have already nabbed three suspects currently in police custody.

Mr Nkanatha assured members of the public of beefed up security and intensified police patrols within the 10pm-5am curfew time. Suspects have been striking within the curfew time with members of public accusing security officers of abetting livestock theft.

“So far we have no evidence against any police officer suspected to be abetting livestock theft, but we are investigating. Lets members of public volunteer information in confidence agaisnt security apparatus in an to stop this menace,” appealed Mr Nkanatha The County commissioner took issue with security apparatus laxity on curbing livestock theft, surrendering herders to the cunning livestock theft. He said the county security team is organising a crisis meeting with all senior officers and administrators in Isinya sub county to brainstorm on the way forward.

Power is temporary, Speaker Osoi says, amid Assembly, executive wrangles Kajiado Assembly Speaker Johnson Osoi (right) chats with KAACR Executive Director Timothy Ekesa and legal officer Joy Katunge during launch of She Leads Programme to empower women and girls. Photo/Obegi Malack

By Obegi Malack Kajiado County speaker Johnson Osoi has called on politicians in power to be cautious in every deed they undertake when in office.

The speaker said power is temporary and belongs to people and can be taken away by voters at any time. He said the essence of devolution is to ensure wananchi get services at all times.

The speaker’s statement comes amid executive and assembly disagreement. The MCAs had issued threats not to pass county budget after they said they had been denied funds by executive.

The assembly staff including MCAs had witnessed delay in salary payment and allowances, a situation that caused services delay in the county.

Osoi was speaking in a Kajiado North hotel during launch of The She Leads Programne aimed to empower girls and women. The executive led by County Executive Committee Member (CECM) in charge of Finance Alais Kisota claim National Government has to be blamed for problems facing locals, but some MCAs point accusing fingers at the executive.

In 2019 the speaker was nearly impeached by MCAs who sources had indicated were allegedly sponsored by the executive.

Elders were involved in solving the matter that had seen bitter exchanges that even delayed service delivery. An MCA who sought anonymity said the executive is interfering with the work of the assembly.

During a recent visit in Kajiado County Referral Hospital Kajiado assembly Health Committee warned the executive of failing to implement what is passed in the assembly. The hospital had been faced with delay in salaries and lack of essential services such as ICU. The County Executive Committee Member (CECM) in charge of health Esther Somoire attributed the salary delays to a cash flow challenge from the national government treasury. The casual workers were later paid.

The hospital situation caused a public outcry after the workers were arrested for protesting and later released. A team of the Commission on Administrative Justice (office of the Ombudsman) led by Chairperson Florence Kajuju made a visit in the Referral Hospital to investigate the matter.

CONSERVATION

Rise in cooking gas prices fuels illegal logging in County

By Abdi Hussein Cooking gas high prices currently have been blamed for sharp rise in demand for charcoal in Kitengela and other Kajiado satellite towns that, in turn, has fuelled illegal logging in in Kajiado county.

Almost two weeks after Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) imposed 16 percent tax on liquefied petroleum gas leading to cooking gas prices shooting through the roof, most households have now turned to charcoal as an alternative source of energy for cooking.

In the region cooking gas is retailing at between Sh1,000 and Sh 1,250 for 6kg cylinder with 13kg cylinder selling for between Sh 2,300 and Sh 2,600 depending on the brand. Two weeks ago the same cylinders used to retail at Sh800 to Sh1,800 on average respectively.

With rising energy prices, char-

coal remains the most sought-after source of energy in this region, despite the ongoing government ban on logging and charcoal burning countrywide. The national government imposed a moratorium on logging in public and community forests in 2018.

Most residents, however, argue that they cannot afford cooking gas Logging destroying forests. in the current economic hardship informed by charcoal as a source of energy, collapsing business and massive laying offs of workers in which is not cheap either, but I can the private sector prompted by Co- afford at least a two kilogramme vid-19 pandemic economic effects. container of charcoal daily,” ex“I can no longer afford to buy plained Jane Muthoni.

A spot check by the County cooking gas. I used to buy the 13 kilogramme cylinder twice per Shopper in Kitengela town indicatmonth. My only option is to use ed a bag of charcoal is retailing at

Sh 2,500 with a two kilogramme container selling at Sh 100. Bags of charcoal are ferried from Kajiado Central and Oloilelai Subcounties using motorcycles where illegal logging and charcoal burning is said to have resumed lately.

Removal of police roadblock along Namanga highway has escalated the problem. Motorcycle riders operate early in the morning with each motorcycle ferrying in between 4 to 6 bags per trip.

A rider who spoke to County Shopper on condition of anonymity said about 50 motorcycle riders are hooked into the lucrative business with each rider making two trips in a day.

“Some of us supply to hotels and households, but some are paid to ferry the charcoal to waiting vehicles along the Namanga highway.

The charcoal is transported to as far off destinations as Nairobi,” he confided.

Charcoal retailers in Kitengela town and other satellite towns are enjoying a booming business.

Oloilelai Sub county Deputy County Commissioner Justin Maina said the security team in collaboration with local administration and Kenya Forest Service officers has intensfied village to village patrols to curb the illegal logging.

“We are aware of the new trend but we have intensified patrols.

Lately we have taken dozen suspects to court and we will not relent in fighting illegal logging in private and communal lands,” vowed Mr Maina.

Since the Covid-19 pandemic outbreak in March last year the security agencies seem to have relaxed on the fight against illegal logging that is currently being fuelled by high prices of cooking gas pushing the demand of charcoal higher.

Residents interviewed by County Shopper have appealed to the national government to review cooking gas prices downwards to save the country’s forests.

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SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER, 2021

KAJIADO CENTRAL

Lenku, Memusi differ over Kajiado town roads upgrade

By Abdi Hussein Kajiado governor Joseph Ole Lenku is embroiled in a war of words with Kajiado Central Member of Parliament Elijah Memusi over infrastructure uplift in Kajiado town.

The bone of contention between the two leaders is Shs 600 million several seven kilometres roads within the town constructed by Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) and several projects under Kajiado municipality.

The roads are part of the town upgrade funded by the World Bank in a bid to jumpstart the sleepy county headquarters town economically.

The tendering process is said to have placed Governor Lenku at loggerheads with the Kajiado Central MP Elijah Memusi with Governor Joseph Lenku during special reunion legislator with the county gov- prayers on August 8th, 2020 at the Governor's residence. Photo/Abdi Hussein ernment accusing the MP of arm twisting the county to get tively. over.

He also accused the MP of some tenders.

Last year, the two leaders Governor Lenku is said to mobilizing casual workers to It has however been estab- buried the hatchet and commit- have accused Memusi of alleg- stage protests at Kajiado referlished that all the tenders un- ted to work together in a much edly demanding seven projects ral hospital. der Kajiado municipality and hyped event held at the Gover- as a condition to “keep quiet” The fiery MP reiterated that KURA were openly advertised nor’s Kajiado residence. The ahead of 2022 polls, a condi- the accusations are meant to and tenders awarded competi- political dalliance is seemingly tion the county boss resisted. malign his name after he re-

cently raised the alarm over the story state of Kajiado referral hospital.

“Our working agreement with Governor Lenku was about services to our people.

I was not to become his turn coat,"said Memusi.

He further said the roads in question are under the National government and the county government had no role in their construction.

He also accused the governor of riding on National government projects for political gains.

“We are nearing electioneering period but we expect leaders to use their development records to seek re-elections instead of inciting electorates and maligning their counterparts’ names for selfish political gains,"added Memusi.

Some new tarmac roads including Total- KCB road, Co-operative Bank – Majengo settlement road and the KCBNyambene Road are currently complete and usable. Others are at different stages of completion.

ENVIRONMENT

Ministry to embrace technology in safeguarding forest cover

By Our Reporter The Ministry of Environment and Forestry Cabinet Secretary Keriako Tobiko has reiterated the ministry’s commitment to making use of modern technology in efforts towards protection of the forest cover in the country.

Speaking during a mass tree planting exercise at the East Africa University in Kitengela recently, CS Tobiko urged Kenyans to embrace biogas and briquette technology as alternative sources of energy.

The CS sent a stern warning to charcoal dealers saying the rise in the prices of cooking gas now threatens forest cover despite the ongoing moratorium effected in 2018. He said the ministry is aware of the dire need for wood, adding that they are working on an alternative as they continue to enforce the law and put mea-

Environment CS Keriako Tobiko (centre) during a tree planting exercise at Kitengela East Africa University on July 18th 2021. Photos/Abdi Hussein sures in place to protect the forest cover that is under threat.

“The ministry will not relent in the push to increase the forest cover to 30 percent by 2030.

The officers are keeping vigil to curb illegal logging and charcoal burning in the forests and community lands. Kenyans must re-

Environment CS Keriako Tobiko (left) flanked by students during a tree planting exercise at Kitengela East Africa University on July 18th, 2021.

member it is their responsibility to safeguard forests and should focus on planting indigenous trees,” said Keriako.

Mr. Tobiko said the ministry is seeking to establish commercial forestry to cater for need for wood, adding that the policies and strategies to roll out the pro-

gramme are at an advanced stage.

He also said that the ministry is finalizing on sustainable charcoal production regulations where Kenya Forestry Service (KFS) will use modern means to ensure only branches are harvested but not cutting down of whole trees.

“We are seeking to use modern technology in identified commercial forests where tree branches with high biomass will be harvested for either wood or sustainable charcoal production,” he added.

Mr Keriako said the ongoing tree planting initiative has now focused on community sensitization to facilitate holistic nurturing of trees since planting alone is not sustainable.

CS Tobiko said the exercise has also engaged environmental experts to advice on the indigenous trees that can do well in certain regions and consider fruit trees to boost food security at the same time.

The countrywide tree planting exercise is now focusing on learning institutions in efforts towards increasing and protecting the forest cover.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER, 2021

COUNTY PRESS

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21 Corona deaths recorded in one month in Loitokitok border Covid-19 infections. Members of public are ignoring wearing face masks and washing of hands as basic guidelines to curb the spread of deadly virus, Mr Koech said and urged residents to come out in large numbers for Covid-19 jab.

He further cautioned chiefs and their assistants from allowing any form of meetings in their area of jurisdiction, warning local politicians said to be holding secret political meetings.

“Let members of the public and leaders be reminded all meetings have been suspended by our President. We are aware of few individuals holding secret political meetings in their homesteads. We are coming for them,” he warned.

A spot check at Tarakea border point between Kenya and Tanzania indicates most people use clandestine routes to cross the border thus becoming Covid-19 superspreaders. Face masks are ignored,too.

The trend remains the same at Namanga, one border post where Kenyans cross over to Tanzania especially at the weekend for booze

By Abdi Hussein Kajiado South Subcounty administration has raised a red flag on Covid-19 deaths and new infection upsurge informed by members of public ignorance on Ministry of Health protocols adherence.

According to the county department of health records 21 people have succumbed to Covid-19 related complications in the last one month and more than 400 people contracted the deadly virus within the same period.

The number of deaths is feared to be more as most Covid-19 patients in the region are said to be preferring home care services rather than hospital care.

In a crisis meeting held recently in Loitokitok between security agencies and department of health officers, Kajiado South district Deputy County Commissioner Wesley Koech pegged the Covid-19 upsurge on members of public ignorance to adhere to set guidelines.

“We are experiencing cross

Loitokitok Sub county Hospital.

Company appeals revocation of its license by NEMA

By Abdi Hussein Amboseli avocado farm located in Kajiado County, has appealed the decision by National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) to revoke the farm’s licence.

KiliAvo Fresh Ltd had gone to the National Environment Tribunal last year seeking to block NEMA from revoking its licence but the case was dismissed on April 26th prompting NEMA to revoke the licence immediately.

Kenya National Environment Tribunal (KNET) Chairman Mohammed Balala ruled that KiliAvo had failed to provide reports and ready witnesses to help make its case.

Amboseli Land Owners Conservancy Association (ALOCA) and other key stakeholders had raised questions on skewed environmental impact accessibility arguing that it would interfere with the ecosystem in totality.

ALOCA Chairman Samuel Kaaki said they will not relent to ensure that the wildlife corridors within Amboseli wildlife circuit are protected to safeguard the National heritage-wildlife.

A section of locals claimed that growing commercial crops in the region would use more water and deny water to small holder farmers and also block traditional grazing areas for

their cattle. It was also alleged that since the farm is within the wildlife migratory corridor, it would block migration paths for wildlife.

After months of shove and push between conservators and the farm management, the farm has appealed the revocation of their licence by NEMA at the National Environmental Tribunal (NET).

The first mention of the case seeking to overturn the April ruling was heard on 30th August before it was adjourned for hearing on 28th September.

KiliAvo Fresh Ltd’s 180acre farm boasting of 780 stems of grafted avocados is located between Amboseli National Park, in the shadow of Mt Kilimanjaro on Kenya’s border with Tanzania, and a series of other protected areas including the Kimana Sanctuary, Tsavo West National Park, and Chyulu Hills National Park. It is surrounded by community conservancies.

A spot check indicated that farming activities are at a high gear despite the withdrawal f their licence.

The farm’s manager Jeremiah Swaka said that the land is an agricultural land away from Wildlife migratory corridors and that the revocation of their licence hasn’t stopped them from farming.

and attend night parties. Contrary to Kenya 10 pm to dawn curfew, Tanzania authorities have no such restrictions.

To avoid stringent measures put up at the busy border point most revellers use clandestine routes for their escapades.

The Namanga mobile laboratory is up and running targeting hundreds of truck drivers. The laboratory has a capacity to handle between 500 to 600 samples daily and giving results within five hours, thus minimising earlier reported delays.

Kajiado County director of health, Dr Ezekiel Kapkoni said Loitokitok have been hit hard by the Delta variant. He also took issue with low vaccination uptake in the last two weeks in the region.

“Delta variant has hit hard at the populous Loitokitok and its environs compared to other variants. Members of public have been skeptical on accepting the vaccination but we have noticed a sharp increase of members of public seeking the jab in the last one week,’’ said Dr Kapkoni.

The Ministry of Health has classified Kajiado county among the Covid-19 hotspot counties due to proximity to capital city and the porous Kenya-Tanzania border.

The first case of Corona virus was reported in Ongata Rongai town, Kajiado county,on March 12, 2020.

AGRICULTURE

Poultry project launched in Ewuaso, Kajiado West

By Obegi Malack obegimalack@gmail.com The Maasai community is slowly abandoning their long standing culture of not consuming chicken meat.

Kajiado West assistant county commissioner Edith Njambi said Kajiado County now has more people eating chicken meat compared to the neighbouring Narok county.

She added that chicken meat is now a delicious meal for many Maasais who have for long categorized chicken as wild birds.

Kajiado County Livestock and Veterinary Services chief officer Leonard Leakey Ritei said there is shortage of chicken in the country forcing them to import poultry products.

Speaking in Maroroi Ewuaso ward, Kajiado West constituency during launch of a poultry project, the chief officer said the demand for poultry products is so high yet there was inadequate supply from locals.

He challenged the Maasai community to embrace poultry farming since climate change was affecting livestock farming and land sizes were reducing daily.

Leakey said the new project is

Kajiado County Veterinary Chief Officer Leonard Leakey (centre), Kajiado West ACC Edith Njambi (second left), Preventing and Countering Extremism Chair Dr Henry Omae ( in red suit ) and Glerian Ltd Director Ruth Moraa (right) during launch of poultry project. an eye opener to the community and should be embraced by all.

The project, whose construction will be done in two phases starting September this year ,will create new job opportunities and promote activities of the Ministry of Livestock in the county.

Glerian Limited director Ruth Moraa said her journey to poultry farming started in 2015 when she realized there was a big gap in rearing Kienyeji chicken in the country and chain value addition of the byproducts.

Moraa chose to rear Kienyeji

chicken since it is toxins free and has no health risks as opposed to broiler chickens.

“We are looking forward to our company growing into a multinational company for quality products made in Maroroi, Kajiado County,” Moraa said.

Kajiado County Committee on Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism Chairperson Dr Henry Omae commended the county government for providing a good environment to put up projects that uplifts the community.

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COUNTY PRESS

EDITORIAL

Declaration of drought as national disaster timely In northern parts of the country that are prone to perennial drought conditions, home to mostly pastoralist communities, diminishing pasture and water scarcity has compelled locals to endure a life of untold hardship. A severe drought currently ravaging the region that falls under the Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs), has killed livestock, the main source of livelihood for local communities. Herders in hard hit regions like Garissa, Kilifi and others have descended into poverty and food insecurity, having lost cattle, sheep and goats to drought.

President Uhuru Kenyatta, reacting to the dire situation prevailing in the drought-stricken counties, and after concerted appeals and lobbying by local leaders, declared the current drought a national disaster so as to facilitate flow of assistance to the victims from various donors including the national government, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and other humanitarian organisations from outside the country.

Uhuru instructed the National Treasury and the Ministry of Interior to spearhead government efforts to assist affected households including water and relief food distribution as well as livestock condition update.

We take this opportunity to applaud the President for this timely intervention. Narok and Kajiado counties which also are grouped under ASALs should take advantage of the national government goodwill to put in place contingency plans to mitigate drought and climate change effects, especially by numbers. ensuring that herders receive enough water supply and hay to feed livestock to stem animal deaths. Herders should also sell some of the animals to reduce their herds to manageable numbers.

The onset of severe drought couldn’t have come in a worse period as currently, nationally, according Kenya Red Cross Society 2.1 million Kenyans are facing high acute food insecurity, up from 1.4 million persons previously.

This is due to loss of livelihoods triggered by job losses occasioned by Covid-19 pandemic.

The tourism and hotel industry which is the mainstay of the economy of Narok and Kajiado counties–that host Maasai Mara Game Reserve and Amboseli National Park respectively, and other wildlife sanctuaries–bore the brunt of air travel ban, curfews and lockdowns.

The counties and national governments should going forward prioritise coming up with long-term strategies to address the cyclic drought related food insecurity by improving crop production through irrigation and storage especially of hay to feed livestock during the drought to avert animal deaths.

RELAYING FRESH NEWS FROM

KAJIADO & NAROK COUNTIES

www.countypress.co.ke Chief Executive Officer: Peter Silsil Revise Editor: John Nyaosi Editor: Rosemil Oduor Business Development Manager: Stephen Makabila Layout & Design: Gabriel Sankale, Sydney Kimiywi Distribution Team: Daniel Maganya & Gerald Labatt

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OPINION & COMMENTARY

Effects of global climate change on agriculture Climate change has inculcated fear in most of us. The negative effects of climate change are being felt, slapping us on our faces in the form of increasing temperatures, weather variability, shifting agro-ecosystem boundaries, invasive crops and pests and extreme weather events.

Kenya’s economy is bowing on its knees. Agriculture is the backbone of Kenya’s economy. It accounts for 33% of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) with about 75% of Kenyans earning all or part of their income from this sector.

The sector is therefore critical to the government’s Big 4 development agenda amongst them being attaining 100% food and nutritional security for all Kenyans. Food security here implies a 34% increase in the average daily income of farmers, 27% reduction in malnutrition among children less than 5 years of age, creation of 1,000 Agroprocessing SMEs and 600,000 new jobs and a 48% increase in agricultural sector’s contribution to the country’s GDP. It’s sad to note that climate change has adversely affected agriculture. The income of fishers has been limited due to threatened marine ecosystems.

Small holder farmers who predominantly rely on rain-fed agricultural systems are increasingly battling with floods, drought and heat waves causing loss of livestock and crops severely.

A report by Christian Aid revealed that some tea growers in Kenya are shifting to produce other crops. But why dwell so much on the agricultural sector?

The economic impact of climate change can largely be attributed to the performance of the agricultural sector.

If this sector is left unattended to, climate mitigation and action initiatives will bear minimal returns. It is one of

the sectors that is highly embraced by many Kenyans and therefore needs keen attention.

The challenge is intensified by agriculture’s extreme vulnerability to climate change.

As many countries prioritize climate proofing and mitigation development activities in critical sectors to ensure tracked low carbon footprints in our country, we need to build and focus

Olivia Auma Otieno on resilient and sustainable agriculture.

Kenya’s heavy reliance on agriculture should make it prioritize sustainability in their decision making. Sustainable agriculture is about increasing profitable farm income, promoting environmental stewardship, enhancing quality of life for farm families and communities and increasing production for human food and fiber needs.

Sustainable agriculture in Kenya can improve crop yields, stimulate the economy and help mitigate climate change.

The World Bank’s Sustainable Agriculture Land Management Project that has been working to increase

sustainable agriculture in Kenya saw tremendous gains in environmental conservation by training farmers in sustainable farming techniques.

According to the World Bank, Kenya’s objective of the Climate Smart Agriculture Project is to build climate resilience in small holder farming and pastoral communities which depend on rain-fed agricultural systems. This is done by scaling up climate-smart agricultural practices, strengthening climate-smart agricultural research and seed systems and supporting agrometeorological, market, climate, and advisory services. Addressing food loss and waste is critical to helping meet climate goals and reduce stress on the environment.

A 2020 World Bank report found out that nearly 8.9 percent of the global population is hungry. It also predicts that the food security challenge will be more difficult in the future as the world will need to produce about 70 percent more food by 2050 to feed an estimated 9 billion people.

Unfortunately, the problem also works in reverse. Agriculture is a major part of the climate problem.

It currently generates 19–29% of total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

Without action, the report states that the percentage could rise substantially as other sectors reduce their emissions.

Kenya is a microcosm of the globe and being a country benchmarked in terms of economic development in the Sub-Saharan region of Africa, we can make it to be a linchpin nation in the region and consequently in the continent by ensuring agricultural sustainability and climate change resilience.

The writer is the Programmes, Advocacy and Fundraising officer Kenya Motor Repairers Association (KEMRA).

COUNTY PRESS

OPINION

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER, 2021

T

11

The message social evils in the society signify

he other day I saw a photo on the social media of women in Nyandarua county digging a grave.

Beside them, there was a written message that they were doing so because the men had been reduced to alcoholics who weren’t available for the job.

Across many media channels, women have been heard complaining of their alcoholic husbands. Most of the women complaining are from central Kenya.

At one time, President Uhuru Kenyatta ordered a heavy crackdown on alcohol producers and distributers who were selling the illicit variety.

Former Kiambu governor Ferdinand Waititu put a lot of restrictions in the sale of alcohol in the county and a controversial programme on rehabilitating alcoholics was put in place.

As a social scientist and researcher, I have been doing a lot of stuff with youths and adults in various settings in Kenya. I have visited all manner of places includ-

ing notorious alcohol joints selling all manner of drinks. I have met people imbibing in all manner of liquids and hard stuff in their many settings. When asked why they take the drugs, they complain of having no jobs to do and that they have to cope.

The education systems that we have used for so long has in a way ensured that the illiterate have no jobs. With revamped tertiary Harrison Mwirigi Ikunda training especially at technical colleges, this lar development models, we have still seen large has changed a bit.

Previously, univer- population per square sity education was the kilometers countries like key focus of training at South Korea use that as a tertiary levels. Even if huge dividend.

One can still argue we manage to balance that the large population the trainings at tertiary levels and other per square kilometer in key outcomes of Compe- USA than Canada is part tency Based Curriculum of making it a powerful economically, (CBC), we will still have country problems of surplus la- militarily and diplomatibour against the market cally. Germany and UK needs if we don’t fix the offer some insights in Europe that a relatively economy.

This is quite a pre- high population density carious situation. I must per square kilometer state that even though is not a problem if the controlling population country is well managed growth is a key plank in and is pushing very hard some of the more popu- economically. If you look

at a country like Singapore, the huge density has not deterred her match to prosperity.

If population growth is tapped well, it should be an opportunity and not a problem.

If we managed our African population well, it would be a key attraction for investors. The problem we have now is a lot of poverty and our usual weaknesses of bad politics, corruption, divisiveness along ethnic lines and a lot of political tensions and mismanaged economies.

Kenya has serious societal problems.an example is prostitution, which despite being a social ill, has huge numbers of people participating in it. The reality however is that prostitution is part of a response to earn a living by all means.

Harsh economic times have pushed part of the society into engaging in dangerous or health threatening trades.

Part of them obviously could be guys who have been lured to it by other factors family breakdowns and bad habits.

In a nutshell, we have a gargantuan of a problem of addressing serious flaws in the society but we have to do it in a sober way. It is easier to condemn the guys involved in the vice. Addressing the vice means dealing with the key route cause.

The cause starts with fixing the economy. Punishing without finding solution is just scratching a bit of the problem with the end game being a failure. The challenge is addressing idleness brought about by having nothing or very little to do for so many people.

Yet still frustrations will always find solace in imbibing in substances or such bad habits if we don’t offer much hope to the people.

The Writer is a Political, Economic and Social Analyst and Commentator and also represents several other organisations in various capacities including being the Chief Executive Officer of one of the leading Auto Industry Associations in Kenya.

Email: hm.ikunda@ gmail.com

COUNTY ASSEMBLY

MCAs pass bill to woo investors

By Obegi Malack obegimalack@gmail.com The County Assembly of Kajiado has passed a bill that will create a friendly environment for investors in the county.

The Kajiado County Investment Authority Bill, 2021 will see creation of Investment Authority that will enhance financial and economic prudence in the county investments, enhance competitiveness of CG investments, promote local investment and economic development.

It will also enhance county revenue base, contribute to mobilization of finances for investments, facilitate investment by residents and enable the county to enter into public private partnerships among purposes.

The bill was tabled by Oloolua Ward representative, Martin Kimemia, Chairman Trade, Co-operative and Enterprise

Oloolua Ward representative, Hon Martin Kimemia, Chairman Trade, Co-operative and Enterprise Development Committee addressing the County Assemly when he tabled the Bill.

Development Committee. He said the bill will see enterprises maximize the existing factors of production and provide gain-

ful employments and promote community social responsibility across the county.

The MCA said Kajiado

County has a huge potential in providing an enabling environment for the enterprises and provide investment hubs and opportunities to the locals and multinational firms considering the availability of infrastructures due to County’s proximity to Kenya’s Capital Nairobi and the county.

The Committee chair noted that the County should now position itself as an investment hub and take advantage of the available resources.

“Our county has opportunities to maximize considering its proximity to Nairobi City with the available infrastructures. Our role as legislature is to ensure that legislation on existing factors of production and regulations that shall be formulated by this House attracts foreign investors as well as nurture and protect domestic investors,” stated Kimemia.

Leader of Majority Party

Julius Moipai said the Bill shall spur development in the County as it will enable formulation of agreements that will protect both locals and investors, hence facilitate creation of employment for youths.

The Imbirrikani MCA said passing of the bill was timely and it will provide a friendly investment environment and create jobs for the locals in numbers.

His colleague from Kaputiei North Ward MCA Joshua Olowasa said that the bill shall boost investors’ confidence especially the ones that are already operating in the county.

Olowasa said the there will be more benefits from investors such as corporate social responsibility, creation of more jobs, transfer of skills. The bill will put in place a clear framework for the county to usher in more investors.

COUNTY PRESS

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SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER, 2021

Special FEATURES

One man’s bid in putting up Maasai Museum bears fruit Charles Leshore in his library. Photo/Obegi Malack

By Obegi Malack obegimalack@gmail.com

M

aasai heritage has become the face of Africa in global cultural tourism. The pastoral community’s rich culture attracts thousands of tourists to Kenya every year giving the country billions in revenue.

Despite their heritage being a tourist attraction, the community is losing its material culture whereby it has been forgotten over time and the upcoming generations have no information about their past. There exist limited sites to learn about the culture; therefore protecting it for future generation would be an uphill task.

Lack of access to information through establishments like libraries or museums is the reason Charles Leshore has come up with a plan of putting up a museum in Kajiado County to empower the community and protect their culture.

Leshore, a former employee of AMREF Kenya says he has been collecting important materials to start the museum. He wants the Maasais to know their heritage and at the same time, benefit from it.

His house in Ongata Rongai shows a clear indication that he has spent time and resources in the field to collect valuable materials from as far as Tanzania. He has been collecting these materials for the last 22 years for his Maasai Museum and Centre for Indigenous Culture.

Leshore who is among individuals appointed by Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife Najib Balala on May 2021 as Hon-

orary Warden for the next three years, says he registered the museum in 2020, and has joined a number cultural of associations already existing including the Community and Private Museum Association.

The museum contains traditional artifacts such as: tools, weaponry and cooking items that

Charles Leshore displaying traditional regalia in his homestead.

Photo/Obegi Malack.

were used by Maasai in the past.

It also has items that were used for communication like horns. Besides, he has in store the first vehicle to be bought by Maasais with registration number KKE 001.

He says that the Moran’s rite of passage has been forgotten as the community has embraced education and modern religion.

Therefore, the center will lead in spearheading the bringing back the Moran rites of passage.

The center also has sculptures of Mau Mau fighters who fought for the country’s independence, in its library; the biographies of respected leaders such as Ole Ntimama, Oloitiptip, John Keen, Mary Mpayeei, Justus ole Tipis, Ole Masaa, Ole Ntipilit, Ole Lemein and Lois Mpayeei among others are

Charles Leshore shows the first car in Maasailand. Photo/Obegi Malack

well presented.

The centre has books about Maasais from around the world while others were bought from Amazon. Leshore has also written a number of books about the Maasai people.

Leshore says some of the community’s respected leaders who passed on have to be honored by documenting their stories for the future generation.

The centre will also educate the Maasais on importance of protection their land, to enable them solving land conflicts besides giving them lessons on local tourism. Beads, ornaments and other items will be sold at the center.

“Nairobi National Park was Maasai Park but they were pushed out of the area, we do not want such to happen in other areas as we want Maasai to be stewards because they understand the animals and live with them,” he said.

The centre will also be used in identifying historical sites that needs to be protected for future generations. Some of the sites will be named ‘heritage sites’. Some of the sites already marked include: Oloiboni Olonana, the Ngong Colonial Court and proposed shrine in Kisamis. There will also be a monument of Olonana ole Mbatian at the center.

Ngong Hills will also be a heritage site as it was voted in 2014 as the World’s Most Romantic Film Location but little has been done to market it.

Although Leshore has the knowledge and artifacts for the center, he is seeking funds to put up the museum and he believes well-wishers will be interested in supporting him achieve the dream.

Leshore, a former employee of AMREF Kenya says he has been collecting important materials to start the museum. He wants the Maasais to know their heritage and at the same time, benefit from it.

COUNTY PRESS

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER, 2021

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ROADS & INFRASTRUCTURE

Sh600m Kajiado town roads upgrade big boost to commerce

Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) engineer Ms Vivian Nyamwalo (right) shows Kajiado Governor Joseph ole Lenku a map of the newly tarmacked feeder roads within Kajiado town.

By Abdi Hussein Kajiado town residents are set to reap big economically from a Sh 600 million feeder roads facelift following elevation of the sleepy county headquarters to a municipality.

The much anticipated business growth will now become a reality with the tarmacking of several 10 kilometre feeder roads within the town and to the nearby estates done by Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) with funding by the World Bank.

Kajiado and Ngong towns were recently elevated to municipality status.

The populous Kitengela town is on the waiting list.

Several roads in Kajiado town have been upgraded with others nearing completion thus giving hope to the start of a 24-hour economy antici-

Governor Joseph ole Lenku with Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) engineer, Ms Vivian Nyamwalo and other officials during inspection of feeder roads in Kajiado town. Photos/Abdi Hussein

pated by the business fraternity and motorists. Over the years the town went to sleep by dusk and over the weekends. Locals want the roads to be extended to estates in the periphery of the town.

Some new tarmac roads including Total-KCB road-Co-operative Bank, Majengo settlement road, Juakali-Stadium road and the KCBNyambene Road are currently complete and usable.

“The facelift has been long overdue. This will transform the town from a ghost town that closes shop by 7pm to a vibrant economy. With improved infrastructure our businesses will now thrive,” said James Mpoke, a trader.

Only recently the first Supermarket pitched tent in the town characterised with rental houses, with few

hotels boasting of accommodation.

Most buildings facing Namanga highway are antique. The Number of petrol stations has increased with at least few operating for 24 hours.

Locals say the town has over the years suffered from baby walk steps in growth.

Another project under the World Bank funding is a Sh46 million Information and Communications Technology (ICT) enabled public square.

The new park occupying a 3-acre piece of land previously used by traders as an open air market is designed to have two kiosks, ablution block and Maasai community cultural square where the natives will be showcasing and selling their traditional artifacts online. It is set to be complete in two months’ time. The ongoing Governor Lenku champion league is set to be

Kajiado County Governor Joseph ole Lenku (second right) flanked by KURA engineers inspect one of the feeder roads under construction in Kajiado town.

played here.

The county government of Kajiado plans to provide street furniture with solar power enabled sockets.

Also the county government has allocated funds for the stone throw away Kajiado stadium to complete the full picture of the rebranded Kajiado town. The work is under way with a contractor expected to finish the work in three months.

When inspecting the various projects recently, Kajiado Governor Joseph ole Lenku slammed several local leaders who initially opposed elevation of the town to a municipality saying it has come with a tide of benefits for the locals.

He urged residents to seize the opportunity to expand their businesses and also encouraged investors to consider Kajiado as an ideal des-

tination.

“Let investors come and invest in Kajiado County. Most employees from both National and county government who reside in Kitengela have no excuse not to let a house in Kajiado. Those who were opposed to the elevation of the town to a municipality did not mean well to our people,” said Mr Lenku.

He reiterated his commitment to work with development partners and the national government to improve the lives of people living in Kajiado satellite towns.

Riding on the availability of land with improved infrastructure including a sewer line, the poximity of the town to Namanga one stop border point (OSBP) and capital city of Nairobi, Kajiado can arguably be transformed into a business hub.

TOURISM

Tourists to jet in directly to Maasai Mara as airport mooted

By Ben Leshau International tourists visiting the world-famous Maasai Mara Game reserve will soon be jetting directly to the park from their native countries once a planned international airport in the Mara is completed.

The multi-million project that is expected to be complete in the next two years kicked off with the rehabilitation of Angama airstrip which is set to be expanded to international standards giving rise to the “Maasai Mara International Airport”.

Speaking during the launch of the project at Angama near the highend Angama Mara Camp, Transport Principal Secretary Solomon Kitungu termed the project as a milestone partnership between aviation and tourism industries.

“As government, we remain

committed to promote the growth of the aviation industry and its related activities, and thus facilitate the development of our national economy, particularly in the areas of tourism, trade and business,” noted Mr Kitungu.

He added, “Maasai Mara is a world famous safari destination in Africa. The Great Wildebeest Migration at the Mara is the world’s largest migration of wildlife and is recognized as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa.”

While acknowledging the importance of air connectivity, the PS noted that over 80 percent of tourists in Kenya travel via air through JKIA, Moi International Airport and Wilson Airport and connect to other domestic airports Other air transport connectivity projects being undertaken by the government include the recently con-

cluded Sh7 billion upgrade of Moi International Airport Mombasa.

According to the PS, other rehabilitated airstrips include Migori, Manda-Lamu, Nanyuki, Kitale, Diani (Ukunda) and Malindi airports. Narok Governor Samuel Tunai who is also the Tourism Committee Chair at the Council of Governors (CoG) termed the move by Kenya Airports Authority as long overdue and that matches the global recognition of the Maasai Mara as an enviable premium holiday destination.

The multi-million project that is expected to be complete in the next two years kicked off with expansion of Angama airstrip to international standards.

“Due to the pride of the Mara, it is important to make it more accessible for local and international tourists and this airport is a paradigm shift from the current situation where tourists have to connect through other international airports,” noted Tunai.

He added that the tourism sector in the Mara contributes close to 80 percent of the county’s own source revenue and close to 40 percent of employment opportunities directly and indirectly.

With the facility, he said, Kenya will no doubt be well poised to be a leading air logistics hub in the East Afrca region.

“This new international facility will increase the number of visitors to the Mara, revenue for the hotels, lodges and camps thus boosts the tourism sector’s significant contribution to Kenya’s GDP,” noted Tunai.

On her part, Tourism PS Ms Safina Kwewe echoed the Governor’s sentiments describing the Maasai Mara reserve as one of the anchor parks in the country and home to the 8th wonder of the world due to the annual Wildebeest migration.

“Airstrips like Angama will ensure connectivity of visitors to their getaway destinations, thus contribute to unforgettable experiences more efficiently in terms of time and cost.

This airstrip will further boost accessibility to the Maasai Mara Game Reserve and cement Kenya as the home to authentic safari,” she added.

Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) Managing Director Alex Gitari said the government is spending Sh10 billion to upgrade infrastructure in major airstrips in the country to ease air transport.

“Kenya Airports Authority recognizes the importance of the tourism sector and are investing to deliver new infrastructure that will attract new services, new routes and new airlines to the different tourism destinations in the country,” said Mr Gitari.

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COUNTY PRESS

Special FEATURES

Moi Isinya Girls retired cook feted

Mzee Kerenke Ole Nakikoni blesses former Moi Girls Isinya students who visited him on June 26th, 2021.

Photo/Abdi Hussein

By Abdi Hussein

O

n sunny Saturday afternoon June 26th 2021 ,a convoy of vehicles zoomed into Mzee Kerenke Kajiado Central sub county, Enkinye village homestead and in a moment song and loud cheer rent the air as the occupants of the high end vehicles were ushered in by their former high school cook-Mzee Kerenke Ole Nakikoni.

It was a moment of mixed reac-

tions in a reunion of a retired cook and former students of Moi girls Isinya high school, with a few of the students unable to hold back their tears as memories hit them hard as tidal waves.

With youthful days gone, Mzee Kerenke stood tall, his frame towering over his visitors like a soldier admiring his troops in a battlefield.

Tears of joy welled up in his eyes but he could not allow them to flow”Maasai men do not shed tears before women.”

Have you ever visited your for-

mer school cook or watchman or even remembered them? It is not likely but these women, some living in the fast lane of life, pulled an unexpected gesture to a cook who was a “darling” of Maasai community female students then.

The more than 100 women serving in different capacities in the country led by Nominated senator and former Kajiado County woman MP Mary Seneta, visited 70-yearold Kerenke Ole Nakikoni in his sunset years in his rural home more than 20 years after retiring.

The retired polygamous father of nine used to be a cook in Moi Girls Isinya in 1980s and 90s and he was a darling of the Maasai community students.

Though semi-illiterate, Mzee Kerenke is said to have played a father figure role to the girls and encouraged them when it was not fashionable for a Maasai girl to join formal education.

The former students mentally walked down memory lane with their former cook, remembering how he knew each and every student by her name; his fatherly advice and his delicious meal he used to serve. Through subordinate staff, Mzee Kerenke was remembered as

the best arbitrator in the school then.

They said Mzee Kerenke left an indelible mark in their lives, urging the Maasai community to embrace girl-child education.

“Mr Kerenke used to make Moi Girls a second home to Maasai students. He ably played a father figure role and encouraged us. We are indebted to him and we are glad we have shared another meal with him in our Mzee Kerenke Ole Nakikoni. adult life,” reminisced Mary Photo/Abdi Hussein Seneta.

A champion of formal education in those early days, Mr Kerenke who is a farmer in his parents to embrace both girls and rural home ensured all his children boys,” stated Ms Jeniffer Moinket. attained formal education. His son Though age is catching up with Josua Kerenke said the entire family Mzee Kerenke, now a Maasai comwere proud of the family patriarch’s munity elder, it did not deter him dedicated job as a cook. from blessing his unique visitors.

“We did not know the magni- He did not talk much during the tude of how our father positively visit but few words he spoke in influenced students at Moi Girls but Maasai dialect seemingly touched to us he has been a beacon of hope the former students that some shed and resilience,” said the son tears of joy. Mzee Kereke Ole Na“Were it not for formal kikoni’s family members lauded the education,we could not have af- positive gesture saying at least the forded to fete our former cook.We family patriarch’s work as a school are championing formal education cook was not in vain. in Maasai community and we urge

The elderly hesitant to take up Covid-19 vaccines in Kajiado

By Abdi Hussein

Most elderly people from Loitokitok Sub-County in Kajiado have remained hesitant to receive the Covid-19 jab as they cite fears characterizes by misconceptions about the vaccines despite the spread of the latest Delta variant hitting hard the region.

Senior citizens are still reluctant to get the shots despite reports from the Department of Health showing that 21 people succumbed to Covid-19 related complications in the last one month where majority of the victims were individuals beyond 60 years of age, men being the most affected.

Majority of these people claim that they always depend on traditional herbs to cure diseases and are still hopeful to use the same in case they are infected with the deadly disease. Senior citizens from rural areas are much inclined to traditional herbs compared to their counterparts in urban centres. Renowned

traditional herbalists are said to be reaping big from individuals seeking their services.

A fraction of the elderly individuals who have heard about the side effects of the vaccines fear that they might affect their health and would rather not be vaccinated.

“I usually do not visit health facilities when ill as I depend on traditional herbs to cure my ailments for the last 65 years. I am reluctant to get vaccinated for the fear of rumours about the side effects it comes along with,” said Mzee Jonathan Taama.

However, local volunteers from various Non-Governmental organisations (NGOs) are actively sensitizing the community to accept the shots. Many people who were initially hesitant are seemingly changing their mind.

The volunteers are moving from village to village ferrying for free the elderlies to vaccination centres to receive the jab while those who remain adamant are not being forced.

An elderly Maasai man wearing a mask. File Photo

“We have bestowed ourselves the responsibility to encourage our elders to be vaccinated. Most elders who contracted the virus and refused to be treated in hospital have unfortunately lost their lives. Let us not play games with the virus,” stated Jacob Nteyan, a community volunteer.

Local leaders have also joined in urging the community not to only depend on traditional herbs but to also embrace the scientifically approved vaccines in the fight against the killer disease.

“We encourage our people to observe the Ministry of Health set guidelines to curb the spread of the virus. We are also persuading infected people to visit medical facilities instead of home based care,” said Governor Joseph ole Lenku.

Kajiado East Member of Parliament Peris Tobiko challenged the County government to ensure there is enough bed capacity for Covid-19 patients in selected public

hospitals.

Kajiado County Director of Health, Dr. Ezekiel Kapkoni revealed that Loitokitok has been hit hard by Delta variant. He also took up the issue of low vaccination uptake in the last two weeks in the region.

“The Delta variant has hit hard the populous Loitoktok and its environs compared to the previous variants. Members of public have been skeptical on accepting the vaccination but we have noticed a sharp increase of those seeking the jab in the last one week,’’ said Dr. Kapkoni.

The Ministry of Health has classified Kajiado County among the Covid-19 hotspots areas due to proximity to the country’s capital city and the porous Kenya -Tanzania border.

The first case of Corona Virus was reported in Ongata Rongai town, Kajiado County on 12th March 2020.

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SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER, 2021

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Special FEATURES Today, woe unto you if you a motorist hits or get hit by one of these riders. They will gang up on you, extort you, rob you and even burn your vehicle, not to mention the many motorists who have been physically assaulted.

By James Muthui Kogi

L

which employs close to a million Kenyans. The sector is also responsible for a lot of the courier services and, together with the Toyota Probox cars they have largely replaced the half ton pickup trucks in the Kenyan roads. Boda boda came about either by fluke or by design during the era of the NARC government under President Mwai Kibaki and his then Trade Minister Dr. Mukhi-

the road and by generally feeling more entitled.

This led to these Boda boda riders ganging up to help their victimized colleague, a culture that stuck and ran has gone berserk.

Today, woe unto you if you a motorist hits or get hit by one of these riders.

They will gang up on you, extort you, rob you and even burn your vehicle, not to mention the many

aw and order are the bedrock of society. The recent happenings in South Africa following the arrest and jailing of their former President Jacob Zuma can attest to that.

Vast areas and investments in Gauteng Province and KwaZulu Natal among others have been reduced to rubble. Jobs, cash, medicine and food will start to be in short supply leading to further unrests.

First, they said it was the apartheid regime that was oppressing them so they got rid of it. Then they said it is the rest of Africa that was taking their opportunities so they started xenophobic attacks as the blame games continues in the world’s most unequal country as per the GINI Index. Meanwhile, law and order has had to be sa Kituyi. Boda boda today motorists who have been restored by the armed is an immense employer physically assaulted by of our youth and with the these marauding gangs. forces.

In the year 1941, when impending general elec- Recently, a retired Kethe world was in the mid- tion in one year’s time, nyan Armed Forces Gendle of World War II, had a many a politician will be eral encountered these Briton met a German, bul- dangling carrots to them. gangs. Basically this is In the meantime, Boda nothing but robbery with lets would fly and someone would lie dead. Today, boda is an untamed ti- violence, a criminal ofthe same arch rivals make ger where law and order fence that carries capital repercusbest of friends. What real- needs to be restored. At punishment ly changed? It must be a the initial stages nearly sions.

15 years ago, it was the But the Boda-boda seccase of new mindsets.

As recently as 2017, car motorists that would tor continues to persist Kenya witnessed a highly harass the Boda boda rid- in disorder mainly due to contested Presidential ers by pushing them off the difficulty in identificaelection which led to a repeat poll and a purported swearing in of a ‘People’s President’. Today, those same protagonists are best of friends. Had law and order been allowed to run amok, we would now have no country to call home.

A mindset shift is now required when it comes to our very important Boda boda sector. This sector represents the motorcycle industry that is operated for PSV purposes Boda boda riders’ motorcycles. across the country and

tion of both the motorcycle and the rider. They all look alike and the small size of their number plate does not help either. They will ride without a valid driving license and this after never having seen the inside of a driving school, without insurance and without due regard to the traffic rules.

This behavior over the years has led to huge numbers of Kenyans ending

Taming the Boda boda menace up either dead, maimed or bereaved of their loved ones whether as riders, as their pillion passengers or as other road users. It is a well-known fact that over 1,000 motorcyclists and their pillion passengers lose their lives every year on Kenyan roads.

Indeed whole wards in major hospitals have over the years infamously been set up for Boda-boda road accident victims and untold suffering has been afflicted to many an innocent citizen.

To address ease of identification and therefore ease of punishment, it is now necessary to employ the great advances of information technology (IT) in this country at a time when innovation is picking up among our young people and when the Konza Techno City idea is being revived as a business model hub for the future.

Using artificial intelligence capabilities, it should be possible to af-

fix onto every motorcycle chassis an irremovable transponder that is readable from remote sensors both by mobile policemen and by street-located sensors.

In this way it will be possible within minutes to locate every Boda-boda involved in a crime scene or involved in a traffic offence in a similar manner as happens with mobile phone locators. This transponder will give details of ownership and address of the culprit and in this way tame the rogue nature of their trade.

It should also be made practically impossible for these Boda-bodas to operate without first becoming members of an organized group or Sacco. This group takes responsibility of ensuring that all their riders are licensed and in possession of the annual Police Clearance Certificate, motorcycles are insured and passenger complaints are properly addressed.

Talking of police, it is high time the National Police Service puts in place a special unit dealing with this Boda-boda sector especially since it involves a population of over a million Kenyans. Why have an anti-stock theft unit that addresses a few cattle rustlers and not have a unit checking on Bodaboda?

This unit can oversee their activities and embrace IT in taming the sector, one that is responsible for putting food on the table for many a household and which brings in annual revenues of over Sh350 billion.

The idea of Boda-boda is a noble one that has helped our youth to get a start in life. Many who have taken full advantage of it have gone on to own fleets of motorcycles, fleets of sand harvesting trucks and on to bigger things.

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County Business

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER, 2021 COUNTY PRESS

Somaliland investors target Kajiado in new bilateral trade deal

By Abdi Hussein

Investors from the State of Somaliland are keen to explore the Kenyan solar energy ecosystem, livestock value addition and large scale dry land irrigation schemes.

The new economic plan could rake in billions of shillings in investments in the country as Somaliland moves fast to create networks with neighbouring countries in a race to beat its chaotic neighbour-Somalia.

Kajiado is one of the counties on their radar due to similarities in geography, weather and natural resources as well as the willingness of local leadership to venture into these high impact ventures.

Areas such as Magadi in Kajiado West and parts of Kajiado East and South have been identified as hubs for solar

Somaliland President H.E. Musa Bihi Abdi meets Kajiado Governor Joseph ole Lenku recently at the port City of Berbera. Photo/Courstesy

energy and large scale livestock farming and mineral exploration and are likely to be the first stop of potential investors.

Details of these engagements seem to have gone a notch higher after Governor Joseph ole Lenku led a Kenyan delegation that met investors from the Gulf region in mid June 2021. The Governor led the delegation that included Rosemary Odinga, daughter of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and Mandera senator Mohamed Mohamud in a four-day visit to Somaliland, culminating in bilateral talks that will soon culminate into high impact projects.

The Kenyan team first graced the commissioning of Berbera Port Complex built at cost of Sh45 billion by United Arab Emirates investor, Dubai Ports World. The port will be a gateway between Africa and

the Gulf region countries and is expected to be a key trade link on livestock and minerals import and export businesses.

The team met Somaliland President Musa Bihi Abdi at the Presidential Palace in Hargeisa together with local investors who have expressed their desire to partner in a number of projects.

Although so far no deal has been hammered, Somaliland envoy to Kenya Bashe Omar confirmed the high level talks on economic partnership first between Kenya as a country and counties as smaller units of devolution.

Governor Lenku said Kajiado County offers a conducive environment for local and international investors due to availability of large tracts of land, available labour and proximity to markets in the Capital city, Nairobi.

Bar, restaurant licence fees slashed

By Obegi Malack obegimalack@gmail.com

Kajiado County Governor Joseph ole Lenku has slashed bar and restaurant licence fees by half after a petition by Kajiado North sub county bar and restaurant owners.

He directed that a 50 per cent waiver be effected for all the licences payable to the Kajiado County Alcoholic Drinks Control Board in respect of bars and

All the application fees payable to the County Alcoholic Drinks Control Board will be suspended for the 2021/22 Financial Year.

Licences falling under the same department will be harmonized and merged for ease of payment and administration.

Kajiado County Governor Joseph ole Lenku chats with bar and restaurant owners after he slashed licence fees by half. Photo/Courtesy restaurants for 2021/22 Financial Year.

All the application fees payable to the County Alcoholic Drinks Control Board will be suspended for the 2021/22 Financial Year.

Licences falling under the same department will be harmonized and merged for ease of payment and administration.

Lenku also direct that Kajiado County Alcoholic Drinks Control Act (2014) be amended to provide for board membership to

include representatives of bar and restaurant owners from each of the sub counties.

He also directed bars and restaurants to operate for two hours earlier within their respective working hours.

The Governor said the move is meant to assist the business community in the food and entertainment industry in their recovery process from effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Vet Ngong Bar Owners

CBO had petitioned the county government to consider 100% waiver on the liquor licence fee for the year 221/2022.

In the petition dated 2nd July 2021 they also requested the county to consider reduction of the licence fee by 50% or such other favourable percentage in the year 2022-2023.

They also appealed to have at least five persons to represent them in the Liquor Licensing Board in the sub county who will be

articulating their issues.

The business owners had also petitioned the county to scrap all hidden charges while applying for the liquor licences such as copyright and tourism licence. The health and single permit licences should be merged for ease of operations, they had appealed.

The operators also appealed to the county government to give clear direction on working hours to avoid confrontation with law enforcers.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER, 2021

COUNTY PRESS

17

KAJIADO WEST

Tata Chemicals Ltd lays off 140 employees

By Abdi Hussein The multinational Tata Chemicals ltd based in Kajiado County has laid off 140 employees in a much anticipated turn around strategic plan to give the cash trapped soda ash manufacturer a new lease of life.

The move is aimed to cut administrative costs as outlined in the turnaround strategy recently adopted by the board.

Among the affected employees are a dozen senior employees and lower cadre employees who comprise the natives.

According to a letter written to affected employees by Human Resource manager Mr Nicholas Tata Chemicals Magadi Ltd Company plant.

Mwanyalo, the fired employees are entitled to their terminal and a certificate of service among ly now that the country is grapdues including one month salary other benefits upon clearing with pling with Covid 19 economic ex gratia payments, Sh 75,000 ex the company. hardship. gratia as contribution towards the Some of the employees who ‘’The layoff has come at purchase of a medical scheme spoke with County Press said the the most unfortunate time. Tata of own choice, pension benefits layoff has hit them hard especial- Chemicals has been my home for

the past eight years. I did not see it coming,’’ said a former worker.

The company revenue is said to have plummeted significantly since the 2017 /2018 financial year to 2020/2021 financial year due to rising energy costs significantly reducing sales volumes.

The lake Magadi continuous silting is said to have affected the quality of trona.

A bloated work force spread across all departments in Magadi major plant, Kajiado and Mombasa depots is said to be pushing the company on her knees.

On August 26th, 22 youths protesting over the sacking of employees by a soda ash miner in Kajiado County were charged in court.

The protesters were arrested on Wednesday August 25th at the depot of Tata Chemicals Magadi Ltd where they were picketing over the sacking of 140 employees by the company.

The accused were arraigned

before Kajiado resident magistrate Edwin Mulochi who released them on Sh 5,000 cash bail each. The case will be mentioned on 2nd November 2021.

A day before the protests, Tata Chemicals Magadi Ltd sought to neutralize pressure from the community by releasing a communiqué detailing the circumstances that had made the job cuts inevitable.

The company said it was facing a lot of financial challenges, a situation brought about by a combination of both internal and external factors such as accumulated losses and outstanding loans arising from the pure ash plant that was mothballed in 2014.

TATA chemicals Ltd which was formerly Magadi soda is the biggest foreign owned company in the entire Kajiado County in terms of capacity and financial muscles. It harvests soda ash from Lake Magadi.

KAJIADO NORTH

Uhuru promises illegal gunmakers jobs, sets on fire 5,144 illicit arms

By Obegi Malack Obegimalack@gmail.com President Uhuru Kenyatta has said the government will offer jobs to illegal gunmakers in Kenya.

The Head of State said the individuals will be allowed to use their skills the right way at the small weapons facility in Ruiru in Kiambu County.

The President was speaking in Ngong after setting ablaze 5,144 illicit small arms and light weapons at the Regional Police Traffic Training Centre (RPTTC).

A security officer pours petrol onto illegal firearms in Ngong before the guns were set ablaze. Photo/Obegi Malack

A majority of the illegal firearms were voluntarily surrendered by the members of the public who heeded Government amnesty offer.

Security agencies also played a key role in ensuring the weapons were surrendered.

The President said the government is committed in ending illegal arms menace. He commended security agencies and religious leaders for ensuring such arms are surrendered.

“I call upon all our citizens who may be in possession of illegal firearms to submit them to our authorities un-

der cover of amnesty for illegal possession of firearms.

Those engaged in making these guns for criminals, come let us use the skills to make legal weapons,” he said.

Uhuru noted that the illegal weapons have to be collected to rebuild peace in communities.

He encouraged the Ministry of Education to work with parents to ensure there is 100% transition from primary to secondary as that would lead to people to abandon negative cultural traditions and be provided with necessary skills to be productive .

Mositet: Kajiado Senate slot reserved for me

By Obegi Malack @obegimalack Former Kajiado County Senator Peter ole Mositet has maintained that the Kajiado County senatorial position in 2022 has been reserved for him by electorates.

Mositet claimed the incumbent senator Philip ole Mpayeei is not a product of the will of the electorates.

Mositet alleged that the incumbent was a project of an individual, adding: “Now that the individual

is also vying, he will focus more in fighting for his position and electorates will have a chance to make their choice.”

The former senator who is now chair board of Nairobi Metropolitan Area Transport Authority said that during his tenure he played a brilliant oversight role on most projects in the county.

“All these projects in the county including the tarmacked roads in the cosmopolitan region such as Kajiado North were

Peter Mositet former Kajiado Senator.

through me. It is only that implementation is done now, documentation was done when I was in office,” Mositet said.

He challenged electorates to give every politician a chance to campaign and politicians to maintain peace in their campaigns.

The former senator was speaking in his father’s home in Kiserian during an event to celebrate his father Mositet Osingiti by Faraja Group, a group comprising of leaders from Kajiado North sub county who

hold parties to celebrate their parents.

“We have to celebrate our parents when they are alive, my father contributed a lot in Kenya’s independence, he is 105 years old and he has been a mirror of society,” he added.

The chairman of the group Wilson ole Naimasia said the group which was launched three years ago comprises 50 leaders from the region and they have already visited around 10 homes awarding the elders.

Narok County 18

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER, 2021

News

2022: Tunai to go Narok County to for Senatorial post benefit from newly

By Ben Leshau

Narok gubernatorial succession race is slowly taking shape with the incumbent Governor Samuel Tunai having declared his interest in vying for the senatorial seat.

A crowded field of his potential successor is slowly gathering steam.

Governor Tunai who has lately been seen increasing

Soipan Tuya

Gabriel Tongoyo.

Charles Sunkuli

Patrick Ntutu

Korei ole Lemein

Narok Governor Samuel Tunai. Photo/ Ben Leshau. his across the country campaigns is serving his second and last term.

According to his close allies, Tunai is still ‘too young to retire from politics and that the Senate seat was fit for him.

“Our Governor is going nowhere. He is ‘too young’ to exit our political scene that is why we want him to go for the senate seat,”said Benard Torome,Narok Town Ward MCA and the Narok Assembly leader of Majority.

Mr Torome while drumming up support for Tunai to vie for the senatorial post argues that by virtue of having served for two terms as a governor, he was more conversant on devolution and will effectively oversight the incoming governor.

Tunai who hails from the minority Siria Maasai section was elected on the platform of uniting communities in the cosmopolitan county and he will be squaring it out with the incumbent Senator Ledama ole Kina (ODM) and land rights activist Meitamei Ololdapash.

Julius Kuiyoni a local iournalist who worked with Maa radio station Mediamax’s Maiyan FM is also the latest entrant in the senate race.

Those seeking to replace Tunai include Labour Chief Administrative Secretary

(CAS) Patrick Ntutu, Youth Affairs PS Charles Sunkuli and MPs Soipan Tuya (Woman Rep), Korei Lemein (Narok South),Gabriel Tongoyo ( Narok West) and Korei ole Lemein (Narok South).

Mr Ntutu is banking on his experience as MP, state officer and his previous performance where he came second to the incumbent Governor Samuel Tunai.

“After number one, number two will follow. I came second last time and that is why in 2022 I should take over,” said Ntutu.

Ntutu’s assertion was, however, dismissed by Lemein who told him off over the number two advantage likening him with ODM leader Raila Odinga who has been coming second in various presidential contests and has never won.

“Coming second is not an automatic indicator that you will be the next governor. Politics are dynamic that is why Raila has never won despite coming second in almost all general elections,” said Mr Lemein.

On her part, Ms Tuya warned her male colleagues of a bruising battle come next year.

“I have traversed Narok county and I have heard from the electorate that they want a new menu this time round. They want a woman governor and I am in,” stated the legislator.

PS Sunkuli also banked on his previous job as Devolution PS saying he had experience on devolution matters. “ I am now youth affairs PS and before I was in devolution docket handling all t 47 counties. I know what devolution is and I am ready to put it in practice,” noted PS Sunkuli.

tested acaricides

Dr. Mwangangi with Vincent Wesonga, Dr. Wilson Kuria, Dr. Mercy Murigo supervising the spraying of livestock with a new acaricide.

By Nancy Masit Nancymasit80@gmail.com Narok County is set to benefit from new acaricides being tested in Shankoi ward Ololua village in Transmara West Sub County.

Dr. David Mwangangi who is the director of labs in Kenya said misuse of acaricides in terms of dipping frequency and low concentration of the acaricide to livestock has resulted in tick resistance, hence the need to identify new acaricides which are effective against ticks.

Mwangangi noted that the director of vetinary services is working in collaboration with the veterinary medicine directorate in testing a new acaricide for registration and the process involves use of cattle infested with ticks in a natural environment.

“Once the process is completed in a period of one month, the field results are analyzed and once a specific acaricide passes the threshold of killing the ticks upon spraying of animals, the acaricide is recommended by the DVS for registration by medicine directorate,” he explained.

He further lamented that there is a lot of tick resistance to acaricides due to acaricide misuse among livestock farmers in Kenya especially the small

holder farmers and urged farmers to follow strictly manufacturers’ guidelines in order to reduce or eliminate occurrence of tick resistance to acaricides.

Dr. Josphat Kiama who is the Head of Vector control unit in Kabete noted that Narok West, was designated a place of acaricide testing because it has all major disease causing vectors like ticks.

“We will collaborate with Narok County government to collect the ticks from the livestock in different parts of the county and test them with various acaricides so that we can identify the best acaricide to use in control of ticks,” he stated.

Kiama said there is need to do tick survey across the county so as to determine which is the best suited acaricide to be used, adding that this can be achieved when ticks are collected from animals and followed by laboratory testing upon subjection to different acaricides.

Narok County county Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture, Hon Everlyn Koiyan welcomed the whole initiative saying that the right acaricides used in livestock will prevent ticks and ensure the livestock will remain healthy.

Narok County News

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER, 2021

COUNTY PRESS

19

Tourism boom in Mara as wildebeest migration attracts visitors

By Ben Leshau Local Maasai women selling bead artifacts at the worldfamous Maasai Mara Game Reserve finally have something to smile about after almost two years of bearing the brunt due to lack of tourists.

With the ongoing wildebeest migration, thousands of tourists have flocked to the park to witness the natural phenomenon.

Just like the hotel industry in the game reserve, the groups of women who used to eke their living by selling their artwork to tourists were hard hit by the Covid-19 pandemic but for the last few weeks, things seem to look up for them.

According to Rose Sairowua, the Bead-work Production Manager at Maa Trust, a local non-profit organisation, about 1,000 women are contracted by the organisation to make beadwork artifacts which the organisation buys from them Former PS Fatma Mohammed admiring some of the beadwork artifacts at Sekenani Gate. and sells to curio shops in the lodges. here in Mara due to bead artfact maker could not Business is good,” said Ms “We have about 17 women wildebeest migration but last hide her joy when she saw a fleet Naserian. groups in conservancies near Traditionally, Maasai culture Maasai Mara who depend solely year was the worst as there were of Land Cruisers full of tourists making its way to Sekenani Gate prohibits women to own liveon beadwork. We are glad that no visitors,” she added.

Sairowua said they would where she sells her wares. stock which is a purely man’s tourism is back and our members “I was excited and I almost property forcing women to enhave something to take home make up to Sh30 million from to their families,” said Ms Sai- the sale of the artifacts annually, shed tears. I could not believe gage in beadwork to support however, with Covid-19, they my eyes. Since March last year, I their families in buying basic rowua.

“The pandemic sent most of will struggle to make at least 30 have not made a coin due to Co- needs.

A spot-check by County these women into depression as percent of that in the remaining vid-19. In the past two weeks, I have been making an average of Press on the business especially they had no income. July all the four months.

Flora Naserian,33, a young Sh2,000 per day. small enterprises in the main way to October is peak season

gates to the Maasai Mara Game Reserve such as Sekenani,Talek, Musiara and Oloololo gates found several groups of women selling their artfacts to tourists.

Local administration has put in measures such as temperature checks, sanitizing booths in all the gates to the park as well as conservancies to ensure the safety of tourists.

Area Governor Samuel Tunai while speaking recently during the launch of the expansion of Angama airstrip which will see tourists jet directly to and from the park revealed that hotels or camps in the park were now fully booked.

“Tourism is back at the Maasai Mara. Our facilities are full of local and international tourists who have come to experience the magical ‘Eighth world wonderWildebeests’ Migration” which is now on,” reiterated Tunai.

The county government, Tunai , lost Sh2 billion in tourism revenue last year due to the closure of the tourism facilities occasioned by the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Recently, the German government dispatched Sh660 million to support wildlife conservancies in paying community rangers as well as offsetting the lease payments to landowners after the 16 conservancies failed to raise the funds due to the collapse of tourism.

HEALTH ISSUES

Kenya loses Sh 373.9 bn annually due to under nutrition

By Obegi Malack obegimalack@gmail.com Kenya is estimated to have lost an equivalent of about Sh373.9 billion (6.9%) of GDP due to under nutrition.

This was revealed by Kenya Aids NGOs Consortium (KANCO) during media training on Early Child Development Advocacy in Kajiado recently.

Rahab Mwaniki KANCO Campaign manager indicated health related costs were estimated to be Sh18.6 billion (0.3%) of GDP with education related losses estimated to be Sh3.2 bilion (0.06%) of GDP and productivity related losses contributing the largest cost at Sh352.1 bilion (6.5%) of GDP. She said children who are

Causes of malnutrition occur due to poor diet diversification, poor maternal infant and young child practices, poor hygiene and sanitation practices, infections, long distance to health facilities, recurrent drought and food insecurity. stunted before the age of five are more likely to under-perform in school; it has a negative impact on their productivity at later stages in life.

County nutrition Co-ordinator Ruth Nasinkoi said one in four children in the county is stunting. She said,

however, the situation can be corrected in two years, that is when the mother gets pregnant to when the child is two years old.

In a survey done in 2018 in Kajiado County, it was established that one in every four children is stunt-

ing that is 25%, wasting has 10%, underweight 10% , exclusive breastfeeding is 73.8% ( NI-ISG 2020), complementary feeding 34.8% ( NI-ISG 2020),Vitamin A supplementation is at 82% ( KHIS,2020), Iron and Folic Acid Consumption at 52.9% (NI-ISG 2020).

Causes of malnutrition occur due to poor diet diversification, poor maternal infant and young child practices, poor hygiene and sanitation practices, infections, long distance to health facilities, recurrent drought and food insecurity. Other causes are low nutrition knowledge among communities, high workload for women and poor infrastructure.

Strategies that have been put in place to correct malnutrition include growth

monitoring and nutrition education and counseling, integrated management of acute malnutrition, food by prescription and Anzilisha programme.

Others are care groups model, baby friendly community initiative, integration of day care at work place, integrated outreaches and health campaigns, high impact nutrition interventions and Malezi Bora initiative.

Early Child Development Advocacy (ECD) programme manager Stephen Ikonya said the training was to build capacity of journalists on importance of ECD, strengthen journalists’ understanding of children rights and understand the importance of nutrition and immunization.

Director Public Health and Sanitation Samson Saigilu said the county government of Kajiado has allocated Sh5 million to support nutrition activities while other organizations have also set aside funds to support the cause.

20

AGRICULTURE AND LIVESTOCK COUNTY PRESS

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER, 2021

Clash over pasture looming in Kajiado Central

By Abdi Hussein A clash on diminishing pasture and water is brewing in Kajiado Central sub county between groups of herders and camel owners as drought hits the region.

The region has not experienced rainfall for the last one year and most pasture is gone while seasonal rivers have dried up.

Herders are currently grappling with harsh erratic climate conditions that has left them vulnerable to food shortage.

Parts of Kajiado Central and Kajiado West sub counties bear New Olelilai DCC Justin Maina being introduced by Inthe major brunt of the looming terior CS, Fred Matiang’i at a public function in Kajiado drought.

Central recently. Photo/Abdi Hussein Recently dozens of agitated herders from Luuwaje location, ing in our lands. The owners ferry camels collectively, County Press Kajiado Central sub county held them at night. We are aware these learnt.The locals have issued an a peaceful protest decrying the animals are spreading diseases af- ultimatum for the camel owners to high number of camels alleged fecting our livestock. We have lit- relocate them elsewhere creating to be spreading diseases to their tle pasture remaining for our cattle panic and fear among the camel animals. and we cannot continue keeping owners.

Also they claimed the camel silent,” said Mr Moses Kiteti, a “We are not against the camel urine is affecting the diminish- herder. farmers as such, we simply do not ing fodder leaving very little for They have vowed to kick out want camels in our region either their emaciated animals which all camels in the region, saying owned by natives or an imminow fetch low prices in the local there has been a high increase of grant. Let them rear cows or sheep market. the animals in the region running in their respective lands but not “Every morning we wake up into hundreds. The region is esti- camels,” said Dickson Ngaloyo, to find hundreds of camels roam- mated to have more than 500,000 Matapato North MCA.

In 2016 a similar disputes arose threatening peace and inter community co-existence of many years.

The big herds of camels are owned by non-natives..Some of the animals roam freely in communal lands while some are confined in private pieces of land, However some camel farmers claim the locals are being incited by certain politicians for selfish gains, “There are a well orchestrated scheme by some leaders to arm twist camel owners to toe the line.

This is malicious First it happened in 2016,an year before general elections and now towards 2022 general elections .Some of us are investors owning private lands,” said a camel farmer on condition of anonymity. They are now calling on security agencies to intervene and find a long lasting truce.

Oloilelai sub county deputy county commissioner Justin Maina has cautioned local leaders against inciting members of the public, saying a meeting between the rival parties will be held to find a lasting solution.

“The security team is on high alert to ensure no destruction of

Maize farmers decry rampant theft of the crop

By Ben Leshau A section of maize farmers in Narok South Sub-county are countinglosses after a syndicate of maize thieves invade their fields stealing their crop.

The farmers in Oloong’ila, Ilkiriaine and Ololung’a areas have decried a daring gang that sneaks into their farms and harvesting where they never sow making farmers to incur huge losses.

The farmers led by Jeff Karanja and Benson Kiiru who are large-scale maize farmers in the area are now calling on the county security team to intervene and step up police patrols.

“We are pained to witness crops being stolen day and night just as we are preparing to harvest. We are losing close to 100 bags of maize every week and

should the government fail to intervene we might not harvest anything,” said Mr Karanja.

Karanja,33, who is a budding maize farmer reiterated that the runaway thefts of their crops were a discouragement to young farmers who are venturing into agribusiness to beat joblessness.

“Agriculture is the backbone of our country’s economy and it has been a business of our fathers. Some of us have chosen to take over from them but challenges such as climate change have now been worsened by the maize thieves,” he added.

Due to the rampant insecurity, he said that he has been forced to hire 60 community security guards to man the vast maize fields which he said, is proving to be costly to the struggling farmers.

“I spend almost Sh300,000

Narok South farmer Jeff Kiiru in his maize plantation. Photo/Ben Leshau

every month on security guards.

I even wonder whether I will be able to recover that through maize sales,” he narrated.

Another veteran farmer Mr Kiiru who has been a commercial maize and wheat farmer also echoes Mr Karanja’s sentiments on rising cases of maize thefts in the recent past.

Mr Kiiru wants the government to deploy police to man the commercial maize farms in Narok South saying the thefts were threatening the country’s food security.

“It is sad that whenever our guards arrest the thieves and after taking them to the police station they are detained briefly then released under unclear circumstances. It is the duty of the government to protect lives as well as property,” lamented Mr Kiiru.

private property happens. We have reached out to the warring parties for an amicable solution.

Those who will be found culpable of incitement will be prosecuted,” Mr Maina warned.

Justin Maina, Olelilai Deputy County Commissioner.

The security team is on high alert to ensure no destruction of private property happens. We have reached out to the warring parties for an amicable solution.

Those who will be found culpable of incitement will be prosecuted

George Tulele a security guard at one of the maize farms expresses his despair in combating maize thieves terming them as ‘tactful’ and ‘dodgy’.

“These thieves work in groups of two to five and are always armed with crude weapons ready to retaliate should we get hold of them. They sneak into the farm and hide in the plantation,” said Mr Tulele.

He, however, revealed that they managed to corner four suspects recently with 10 bags of maize and handed the suspects to Ololung’a police station where they were being detained and expected to appear in court.

Area Deputy County Commissioner Mr Felix Kisalu told the maize farmers that the subcounty committee was addressing the matter but called on the affected farmers to report to authorities for action.

“As a security team, we are on high alert. Should any farmer report theft of maize incident we shall act. We have arrested many and have appeared in court. The days of such thieves are numbered,” said Mr Kisalu.

SEPTEMBER, 2019

THE CLASSROOM COUNTY PRESS

5

COUNTY PRESS 21

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER, 2021

Mop up drive launched to ensure 100% transition in Kajiado

By Abdi Hussein The department of Education of the Kajiado county government has raised concern over the high number of students who sat for Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) but failed to join secondary schools.

In a crisis meeting held at the County Commissioner’s office in Kajiado , it was reported that out of 21,000 students who sat for 2020 KCPE exams only 17,000 students had joined secondary schools.

County director of education Luka Kangogo said that poverty, ignorance and early pregnancies have greatly contributed to the

high number of students out of school.

Dr Silvester Mulambe, the Director Policy, Partnerships and East African Community Affairs at the Ministry of Education echoed on the need to ensure 100 percent secondary transition. He reminded parents that children are entitled to education as per the Basic Education Act. Kajiado County Commissioner Joshua Nkanatha warned parents against failing to enroll their children for secondary education.

“We have all the names of students who haven’t joined form one yet. We will forcefully take them to school and have their par-

‘‘

Joshua Nkanata, Kajiado County Commissioner

We have all the names of students who haven’t joined form one yet. We will forcefully take them to school and have their parents prosecuted. We will not entertain any excuses - Nkanatha

ents prosecuted. We will not entertain any excuses,” Nkanatha said.

He also promised to take disciplinary action against chiefs and assistant chiefs who had not reported about the children from their jurisdiction who were not in school.

A spot check revealed that most students who haven’t reported to school are from remote areas in the county.

“I could only afford to enroll two out of my five children to form one. The others will wait till next year,” said a parent from Ilbisil town, Kajiado Central sub county.

Oltarakwai Secondary School lauds Nguzo Africa for support

By Nancy Masit Nancymasit80@gmail.com Oltarakwai Secondary School Principal, Mr Kipkemoi Maritim has commended Nguzo Africa for giving support to the school to enable it comply with Covid-19 Ministry of Health regulations.

Maritim said Nguzo Africa gave handwashing equipment and 1000 seedlings which they planted to conserve the environment.

Maritim said the school whose student population is 50 percent boys and 50 percent girls has been pushing on well as the institution now has enough resources.

He urged the community to bring their children to school since it has been registered and expanded to three streams though they have a shortage of teachers.

“I requested the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to post more teachers to our school since the student population has increased,” he said.

He said that they had a target of 5.1 mean grade, adding that 10 of its students will join university this year and thanked Narok County government for putting up three new classrooms. He also thanked the

School Principal, Kipkemoi Maritim. area Member of Parliament, Hon Korei Ole Lemein for giving them National Government-Constituency Fund (NG-CDF) support in putting up classrooms.

He requested the government to build a library, laboratory and a dormitory for girls since there are some students who trek for 20 kilometres in order to reach school.

“The girl-child faces a lot of challenges like getting pregnant since there are vendors along the way,” he added.

He has also urged the government to construct bridges in the nearby rivers since there is a lot of

rain and it becomes difficult for them to reach school.

Mr Elizaphan Ogechi, who is the Executive director of Nguzo Africa said that Nguzo Africa is a non-governmental organisation whose work is to empower farmers.

“We instruct them how take care of their livestock well by showing them how to do pasture production and how they harvest and store it for their livestock to use when there is drought,” he explained.

He said Narok County used to School Principal, Mr Kipkemoi Maritim poses for photo beside a water tank donated Narok Woman lose a lot of cattle due to drought and Representative Hon. Soipan Tuya. lack of enough feeds, adding that when Nguzo Africa arrived in 2011, the feedlots were established and they did capacity building among the Maa community.

“The herders adopted the initiative and were able to produce enough feeds to feed their livestock,” he noted.

He concluded by saying that Nguzo Africa has done environmental conservation by planting trees in Masantare, Ololulunga and Olentutu primary schools and they have a target of planting 100,000 Mr Maritim showing the handwashing facility trees across the county. donated to the school by Nguzo Africa.

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COUNTY PRESS

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER, 2021

ENVIRONMENT & SANITATION

NYS to rehabilitate Ngong dumpsite, says Uhuru

By Obegi Malack obegimalack@gmail.com President Uhuru Kenyatta has said his government will involve National Youth Service (NYS) in rehabilitating Ngong dumpsite.

The President was speaking in Ngong at the Regional Police Traffic Training Centre (RPTTC) where he set on fire 5,144 illicit small arms and small weapons.

He said he had held a discussion with Kajiado County Governor Joseph ole Lenku on how to solve the garbage menace.

The President, however, did not give details on when and how the rehabilitation will be done. The county government had closed the site after filling Ngong dumpsite. with waste in a ditch that they had dug.

The county had planned to The President said he would rehabilitate the dumpsite to be launch Ngong market once trad- used as a recreation centre by ers take their stalls. the local residents.

The Governor during his tour in Kajiado North said his opponents are behind the dirty state of the towns including

Ongata Rongai, Kiserian and Ngong.

Lenku said the opponents pay youths to dump waste on

road reserves. He warned of legal action against anyone caught dumping the waste on road reserves.

The Governor said the county is yet to identify a site to dump the waste, but they are in negotiation with different individuals to have a dumpsite site soon.

He said he closed the dumpsite since it was used by private refuse collectors from as far as Nairobi County, adding that the waste should be managed from the source.

A spot check in the area by County Shopper indicated that the county now uses private garbage collectors to take their garbage to Dandora in Nairobi County, since the Dandora management is against other counties apart from Nairobi County dumping waste in the area.

Waste recycling starts at Ngong new market

By Obegi Malack obegimalack@gmail.com Waste recycling has started at Ngong new market to curb waste menace that had for years plagued traders and customers alike.

County government of Kajiado had been faced with criticism on waste management in towns due to failure to manage waste in towns and markets which are among the main producers of large amount of waste.

The county has now found a solution to mountains of waste produced at the Ngong modern market.

Speaking exclusively to the County Shopper Ngong Municipality manager Mr David Kubaai he said: “ Waste in markets will be managed by recycling it.”

He said that they have entered into an agreement with a recycler, Biogas International (Flexi Biogas) to recycle waste from the new market.

The municipality had allocated them a site near the stadium to recycle the waste.

The CEO Dominic Wanjihia says he wants to address the organic waste problem by recycling it to prevent poisoning of rivers in the county.

The programme Green Ngong Project is set to manage all the waste generated from the modern market with the aim of 0 wastes going to dumpsites.

“Garbage dumping sites contain 80% of organic materi-

Biogas International (Flexi Obegi Malack als that is why recycling of the waste is very essential,” he explained.

He said people should stop burning organic materials from the farms.

The Ngong market produces up to three tons of waste every day, the waste is collected and separated into hard and soft organic matter which include vegetables and fruits.

The soft organic matter is recycled to produce gas and liquid fertilizer which can be used in farms and the hard organic waste is recycled to produce compost manure. They also collect plastic bottles which are used to in gardens to economize usage of soil.

The biogas is used in a communal kitchen which is mostly used

by market women.

Edwin Manjala one of the company’s senior officers told County Shopper that since the project started in January 2021 in the Ngong and they have been able to manage all waste produced by the market and no waste has been taken out of the market. They now transport waste from the modern market to the recycling site using a tuk tuk.

The recycling market facility has five people from the Ngong locality who operate the recycling machines and, at the same, educate local people on benefits of waste recycling.

The company plans to train Biogas) team collects waste from Ngong market. Photo/ more youths to recycle the other waste materials, such as electronic waste and art materials, which they will sell as artists.

They are looking forward to county government support to get access all markets in the county to instal the recycling facility.

CEO Wanjihia says: “Our company’s goal is to help alleviate poverty using affordable, efficient and reliable green energy technologies and promote sustainable livelihoods to families mostly in the developing nations.” They have also installed biogas system (flexi biogas) in many homes which use waste.

The company had installed biogas digester at Naikara Primary School in Maasai Mara in Ngong Municipality Manager David Kubaai is taken partnership with Action Africa through waste recycling in Ngong market by Dominic Help International.

Wanjihia of Flex Biogas. Photo/Obegi Malack

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COUNTY PRESS

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER, 2021

PROFILE

Bonny Njagua: From tout to property manager I was among the first touts in Rongai. We were few and we were good boys who respected passengers,” he said. There were only thirty matatus.

By Obegi Malack A bus stage is among the most annoying places to hang out for a Kenyan because of the touts who can mishandle you and hurl abuse at you if you refuse to board their matatu.

Joseph Muchoki, who has been in the matatu business, is now among the professional property managers and consultants in Kajiado County.

The businessman, who is popularly known as Bonny Njagua, says he started operating a matatu in 2000 after he completed secondary school in 1999.

Being fresh from school, he had to learn to survive for himself and the matatu business was the only option for him. He worked as a tout and rented a house in Kware in Nkaimurunya.After working, he received Sh 20 per matatu which ended up in food and rent which was then Sh 150.

“I was among the first touts in Rongai. We were few and we were good boys who respected passengers,” he said. There were only thirty matatus.

After a year in touting, he was upgraded to a matatu driver and started plying route 126 Rongai -Kiserian. Things were good for him before the introduction of Michuki rules that phased out most drivers. The stringent rules, which came into effect in February 2004, saw more than 90,000 drivers and conductors kicked out of the public service transport sector.

Njagua was 21 years when the Michuki rules took effect. The rules required that the minimum age of PSV drivers should be 24 years.

His exit from the mata-

Bonny Njagua

tu industry saw him seek employment in the beauty industry. He was employed as a barber, a job he did for 4 years.

The barber shop business connected him to many people such as property owners and tenants who live in the town.

He built a good relationship with them.

“When I was working as a barber, my clients used to inquire about vacant houses to rent and others asked me to market their vacant houses,” he said. This is where he saw a gap in the property market and jumped in.

He opened a property company in 2006 and his clients were people he used to shave for many years.

Njagua says that after a few years in the property market, landlords began trusting him. This is because his clients stayed in their rented homes for long. He started receiving many offers to manage houses in Olkeri, Rongai and Nkaimurunya wards.

Njagua says through his good relationship with tenants, he has been able to expand his business and even venture into building and construction works for ten years now.

He received a loan from Equity Bank to expand his business but like any other businessman, Covid-19 affected his business since tenants were not paying. He has been able to enter into agreements with tenants on how to clear rent arrears, advising

those who were living in high end lives to live a life that they can afford. He also has agreements with tenants who have financial challenges on when they can pay their rent arrears.

“You do not have to embarrass families locking their houses. We are human and we do not know what will happen tomorrow,” he said.

Njagua says Rongai is among the fastest growing towns and the demand for housing is very high.

The increase in the number of learning institutions has pushed up the demand for housing, he adds A one bedroom house goes for Sh10,000, 2 bedroom house goes for Sh9,000 to Sh12,000 while the charges for a three bedroom house ranges between Sh25,000 to Sh40,000.

Njagua says that although the business has good returns, there are a lot of challenges like security of tenants.

BONNY NJAGUA VENTURES

Why a property agent will give good returns

Many tenants and landlords suffer at the hands of property managers due to lack of information about the property agents.

This year you have to get a trusted property manager who will give you good returns to you as an investor and excellent services to the tenants.

The manager will ensure your resolutions of New Year are fulfilled, a manager who advises you giving you dos and don’ts that will make you a happy landlord or tenant.

Bonny Njagua Ventures is among trusted house letting and property management ventures in Kajiado County, you should try the agent this year if you want to be successful in property world or if you want to live in an affordable house.

As a customer you will enjoy services such as paying bills as well as rent through your mobile phones without struggle, this will create more time for you to adventure other services.

The venture also does excavation services, they have modest machines with well trained staff. The machines include back hoe, excavator and

wheel loader among others. Other services are land selling.

You can get Bedsitters at Sh6,000, Sh6,500 and Sh7,000, One Bedroom at Sh9,000, Sh10,000 and Sh13,000, Two Bedroom goes for Sh9,000, Sh12,000 and Sh13,000.

For a bigger space, those who need Three Bedroom Sh15,000, Sh18,000 and Sh20,000. For Own Compound, you can get a house at Sh20,000, Sh25,000 and Sh30,000

BONY NJAGUA

You can access Bonny Njagua Ventures on: 0723 869 653 or visit offices in Achievers Building located between Nairobi Women’s Hospital and Fatima Hospital.

County Press SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER, 2021

Maize farmers decry rampant theft of the crop »» Page 20

HEALTH ISSUES

Kajiado County's Sh1.8 billion plan to curb lifestyle diseases

By Abdi Hussein husseinabdi527@gmail.com

The Kajiado County Government has launched an ambitious five year programme to curb the rising cost of health care by promoting nutritional needs of local communities.

The Sh1.8 billion programme is catered for in the 2020-2021 financial year and is jointly funded by the County Government and several international donor agencies.

It is, however, expected to extend up to 2023 to help deal with health challenges caused mainly by lifestyle diseases that have become a big challenge.

The programmes are aimed Kajiado Governor Joseph ole Lenku launching the Sh1.8 County at preventive measures against Nutrition Action Plan (CNAP) at Kajiado Governor's office rediseases that are linked to diet cently. Photo/Abdi Hussein and transcend the health, water, agriculture and livestock and Training Institute, together with Women and children bear the education sectors.

The programme is contained several donors, announced that brunt of lifestyle diseases,” said in the Kajiado County Nutrition the county has already commit- Lenku.

He cautioned residents Action Plan (2019-2023) which ted Sh50.6 million towards nutritional efforts. against some distorting beliefs was launched recently.

“This is a collective respon- that make them rigid against othKajiado Governor Joseph ole Lenku who launched the ac- sibility and open to well-wishers er varieties of food.

“In some communities like tion plan at the Masai Technical and development partners. Our

ours, vegetables are regarded as livestock feed while fish is equated to snakes. We are determined to change this perception,” said the Governor.

He said many lifestyle diseases and various forms of physical disabilities emanate from poor nutrition and urged stakeholders to focus on preventive rather than curative measures.

“It has been demonstrated that we can cut our health care costs in a big way if we invest in nutrition. It is much cheaper and the impact is huge,” noted Lenku.

Kajiado CECM in charge of the health docket Esther Somoire said most patients visiting local health centres are suffering from nutrition related diseases.

"Urban centres are the most affected by lifestyle related diseases but the department is committed to enlightening residents on good nutrition," said Somoire.

Nutrition International Country Director Martha Nyagaya said the country loses Sh38.3 billion in malnutrition related

cases and, therefore, a robust programme could increase economic productivity of residents.

“About 192,397 people die every year from mal-nutrition related illnesses. We are working with 23 counties to address this challenge,” said Ms Nyagaya.

She added that good nutrition will prevent 54 per cent of diarrhoea cases and 32 per cent of all respiratory diseases among others.

About 25 percent of the total children population countrywide, suffer from malnutrition and stunted growth.

Poverty, ignorance and lack of clean water are said to be the biggest contributors of malnutrition.

In a presentation to the consortium of donors, UNICEF Nutritional Support Officer Harriet Namale said it costs Sh5,500 to treat one child affected by malnutrition through supplements in Kajiado County.

“It would take Sh 132 million to treat 2,000 children. These are resources that could be utilized better,” said Namale.

Mara conservancies get Sh660m Covid-19 relief grant

By Ben Leshau Wildlife conservancies around the world-famous Maasai Mara Game Reserve have received a huge boost after they got Sh660 million Covid-19 mitigation funds to support their operations.

Speaking during the event held at Olare Mororogi Conservancy, German Ambassador to Kenya Annett Gunther announced that the funds will go towards supporting the landowners, rangers and general conservation in the Mara ecosystem.

“The German government recognises the conservation in the Maasai Mara, which is one of the Tourism Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala (bespectacled) world’s best tourist destinations. during the giraffe collaring at Amboseli National Park Due to diminishing tourism be- on 11 November, 2020. Photo/Abdi Hussein cause of the Covid-19 pandemic, Tourism Cabinet Secretary Na- rying out in the 160 conservancies we do not want to see the community selling their land to survive,” jib Balala, who graced the event, in the country. applauded the German governThe CS said the support prosaid Ms Gunther.

She asked the beneficiaries to ment’s gesture, saying it would go gramme will continue for the next ensure they utilise the funds for a long way insupplementing the two years when the Covid-19 panthe sustainable conservation of the ongoing economic stimulus pro- demic is expected to have gone gramme the government was car- down and tourism picked up. tourist jewel.

COUNTY PRESS

“If the government had not taken the initiative to continue paying the community rangers since last year we risked losing all our wildlife as well as conservation areas. That is why we are appealing to the Treasury to continue disbursing the funds,” said Balala.

The CS lauded the Maasai community for their efforts in conservation despite the rising humanwildlife conflicts, adding the government has spent Sh147 million to compensate victims of humanwildlife conflict in Narok alone for the last five years.

Balala, who was accompanied by his Principal Secretary Fred Segor, cited climate change, change in land use, and the Covid-19 as some of he challenges facing tourism in the country.

Maasai Mara Wildlife Conservancies Association chief executive Daniel Sopia said key conservancies - Olkinyei, Olare Motorogi, Naboisho, and Mara North - will benefit from the German grant

Najib Balala, Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary.

“If the government had not taken the initiative to continue paying the community rangers since last year we risked losing all our wildlife as well as conservation areas.”

County Press is published monthly by Inset Ventures Ltd, Head Office: Ongata Rongai, Osiligi Building 2nd Flr, Opposite KCB TEL: 020 6001006 / 0737 965259 / 0722 - 883 143 / 0734 515 902. E-mail: news@countypress.co.ke, kajiadocountypress@gmail.com P. O. Box 1234 -00511, Ongata Rongai Website: www.countypress.co.ke