KBC Channel 1

Author: Beth Nyaga

  • Owalo inaugurates Nyagoko ICT Hub to empower youth in digital economy

    Owalo inaugurates Nyagoko ICT Hub to empower youth in digital economy

    A new ICT Hub has officially opened in Nyagoko, Siaya County, marking a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to enhance digital empowerment across the country.

    The ICT Hub, opened by Deputy Chief of Staff for Performance and Delivery Management, Eliud Owalo, is part of a nationwide initiative championed by President Dr. William Samoei Ruto’s Government.

    Each ICT Hub, costing Ksh 26 million, will provide vital resources including computers, internet connectivity, ICT training, digital skilling and job linkages to support young people in accessing opportunities in the digital economy.

    The Nyagoko ICT Hub is specifically designed to empower youth by offering them the tools and resources needed to succeed in the rapidly evolving digital world.

    The ICT Hub is part of the government’s initial rollout of 100 ICT Centres of Excellence across the country, all funded by the National Government through the State Department of ICT and the Digital Economy.

    These hubs will not only provide access to digital tools but also foster skill development and job opportunities.

    The Nyagoko Hub will feature a range of services, including public Wi-Fi, a learning centre, shared working spaces, a boardroom, and modern washroom facilities.

    These amenities are intended to create an environment that supports both learning and collaboration, ensuring that young people in the region have access to the resources they need to grow and thrive in the digital age.

    In addition to these 100 fully-funded ICT Hubs, the National Government is collaborating with Members of Parliament through the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NGCDF) to establish an additional 1,450 ICT Hubs across the country, one in every ward.

    The opening ceremony was attended by Rarieda DCC Kennedy Lunalo, officers from the Ministry of ICT, the State Department of Public Works, the Communication Authority, Konza Technopolis, as well as local leaders and members of the public. Representatives from Elephant Construction Company Ltd, the project contractor, were also present.

    This initiative is another important step towards building a robust digital infrastructure that will provide youth across Kenya with the opportunities they need to excel in the modern economy.

  • Malava MP Moses Malulu Injendi passes on

    Malava MP Moses Malulu Injendi passes on

    Malava Member of Parliament, Moses Malulu Injendi, has passed on.

    In a statement, Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetangula announced the legislator’s passing, saying, “Hon. Members, it is with profound sadness that I inform you of the demise of our esteemed colleague, the Hon. Moses Malulu Injendi, who left us this evening, 17th February 2025, at 5:15 pm at Aga Khan Hospital in Nairobi.”

    Hon. Injendi was serving his third term in the National Assembly, having represented Malava Constituency since 2013.

    Throughout his tenure, he was known for his unwavering commitment to public service and legislative excellence.

    As the Vice Chairman of the Departmental Committee on Education & Research, he played a key role in shaping policies to strengthen Kenya’s education system.

    Speaker Wetangula highlighted Injendi’s passion and dedication, noting, “He was a dedicated and passionate representative who served his constituents with unwavering commitment and integrity. His tireless efforts and contribution to our legislative processes, particularly in the education sector and sugar industry, aimed at improving the lives of the Kenyan people will be deeply missed.”

    Hon. Injendi was a strong advocate for reforms in the sugar industry, a sector vital to the economy of his constituency and the country at large. His leadership and advocacy efforts made a lasting impact, earning him respect both within and outside Parliament.

    Wetangula urged Kenyans to honour Injendi’s memory by reflecting on his contributions to the nation, stating, “As we come to terms with this great loss, let us remember Hon. Injendi for his remarkable service and the positive impact he had on our nation.”

    His passing is a devastating loss to Parliament, his constituents, and the country at large.

    As Kenya mourns, Speaker Wetangula conveyed his deepest sympathies, saying, “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, constituents, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.”

    May his soul rest in eternal peace.

  • China’s contribution to peace and development in the DRC

    China’s contribution to peace and development in the DRC

    The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) stands as a nation of immense potential, blessed with abundant natural resources such as cobalt, copper, and diamonds. Yet, for decades, it has faced significant challenges, including conflict, political instability, and underdevelopment. The roots of the crisis trace back to the colonial era, but the modern iteration of the DRC’s troubles began with the aftermath of the Rwandan genocide in 1994, which spilt over into the Congo and ignited a series of wars involving regional and international actors. Although the Second Congo War formally ended in 2003, violence has persisted in the eastern provinces, driven by armed groups, ethnic tensions, and competition over resources. The humanitarian toll has been devastating, with millions displaced and countless lives lost

    In recent years, the international community has renewed its focus on the DRC, recognizing that sustainable peace is essential not only for the Congolese people but also for regional stability in Central Africa. The United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) remains one of the largest and most comprehensive peacekeeping operations in the world. Regional initiatives, led by the African Union (AU) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), have also sought to broker peace and foster dialogue among conflicting parties. These efforts include addressing the root causes of conflict, such as governance reforms, economic development, and the demobilization of armed groups. While progress has been gradual, the DRC remains at a critical juncture, with the potential for transformative change.

    Amid these challenges, China has emerged as a significant and constructive partner for the DRC, contributing both economically and diplomatically to the nation’s development and stability. China’s involvement in the DRC is anchored in its commitment to mutual benefit and partnership, as exemplified by the Sicomines agreement signed in 2008. This landmark deal, part of China’s “resources-for-infrastructure” model, has facilitated critical investments in roads, hospitals, and schools, laying the foundation for long-term development. These projects have not only improved infrastructure but also created jobs and stimulated economic growth, addressing some of the underlying drivers of conflict.

    China’s role in the DRC extends beyond economic engagement. As a responsible global power, China has actively supported peace and stability in the region. Chinese peacekeepers have been an integral part of MONUSCO, providing essential engineering, medical, and logistical support. This contribution underscores China’s commitment to international peacekeeping and its willingness to play a constructive role in resolving complex conflicts. Moreover, China has consistently supported multilateral efforts to address the DRC crisis, working within the frameworks of the UN, AU, and SADC. Its emphasis on non-interference and respect for sovereignty has fostered trust and cooperation with successive Congolese governments, enabling it to engage effectively in diplomatic efforts.

    China’s diplomatic approach offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a sustainable solution in the DRC. By prioritizing mutual benefit and partnership, China has built strong relationships with Congolese leaders and communities, positioning itself as a trusted mediator in peace negotiations. Its economic investments, if continued and expanded, could play a pivotal role in addressing the root causes of conflict. By creating jobs, improving infrastructure, and fostering economic growth, China can help reduce the poverty and inequality that fuel violence in the DRC. Furthermore, China’s support for governance reforms and capacity-building initiatives can strengthen institutions and promote long-term stability.

    China’s role in conflict resolution is not limited to the DRC. In other global hotspots, China has demonstrated its ability to contribute to peace and stability. For instance, in South Sudan, China has played a key role in supporting peace negotiations and providing humanitarian aid. Chinese peacekeepers have been deployed as part of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), where they have protected civilians, built infrastructure, and facilitated dialogue between conflicting parties. Similarly, in the Middle East, China has engaged in diplomatic efforts to promote peace in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, advocating for a two-state solution and offering economic assistance to foster development in the region.

    In Africa, China’s involvement in conflict resolution extends beyond peacekeeping. During the Darfur crisis in Sudan, China used its diplomatic influence to encourage the Sudanese government to accept UN peacekeepers and engage in peace talks. China’s efforts were instrumental in paving the way for the deployment of the UN-African Union Mission in Darfur, which helped stabilize the region. Additionally, China has supported post-conflict reconstruction in countries like Liberia and Sierra Leone, where its investments in infrastructure and development have contributed to long-term stability.

    The DRC’s crisis is complex and multifaceted, requiring a coordinated and sustained effort from all stakeholders. China’s diplomatic efforts, aligned with the broader international community’s goals, can significantly contribute to the search for a sustainable solution. By leveraging its economic resources and diplomatic influence, China has the potential to help transform the DRC from a nation plagued by conflict into one of prosperity and stability. The road ahead is long and challenging, but with a commitment to partnership and development, China can play a pivotal role in shaping a brighter future for the Congolese people. Through collaboration and shared vision, the DRC can realize its immense potential, and China’s contributions will be a vital part of that journey.

    By drawing on its experience in other conflict zones, China can bring valuable insights and resources to the DRC, helping to build a lasting peace that benefits all Congolese citizens. Its proven track record in conflict resolution and development underscores its capacity to make a meaningful difference in the DRC and beyond.

  • KUSCCO Fraud Case: Former MD summoned as four face charges

    KUSCCO Fraud Case: Former MD summoned as four face charges

    Four officials linked to the financial mismanagement scandal at the Kenya Union of Savings and Credit Cooperatives (KUSCCO) will remain in custody as they await a ruling on their bail terms on Tuesday, February 18, 2025.

    The suspects were arrested by detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) as part of an ongoing probe into the alleged misappropriation of billions of shillings.

    The accused, George Magutu Mwangi, Mercy Muthoni Njeru, George Ochola Owino and Jackline Pauline Atieno Omolo, have already been arraigned at the Milimani Law Courts.

    They face multiple charges, including Conspiracy to Defraud (contrary to Section 317 of the Penal Code), Stealing by Directors or Officers of Companies (contrary to Section 282 of the Penal Code) and Making a False Document (contrary to Section 347(a), as read with Section 349 of the Penal Code).

    Meanwhile, the court has issued summons for former KUSCCO Managing Director George Otieno Ototo­, requiring him to appear for plea taking on the same day his co-accused await the bond ruling.

    DCI detectives have vowed to leave no stone unturned as they pursue all individuals involved in the financial mismanagement at KUSCCO.

    Investigations remain ongoing to ensure accountability and justice for the affected cooperative members.­

  • Trump announces three-way talks on Ukraine war

    Trump announces three-way talks on Ukraine war

    President Donald Trump has announced that­ US, Russian and Ukrainian officials will meet at a security conference in Munich on Friday for talks on how to end the war in Ukraine.

    “Russia is going to be there with our people,” the US president said. “Ukraine is also invited, by the way, not sure exactly who’s going to be there from any country – but high-level people from Russia, from Ukraine and from the United States.”

    However, Russia – which is not officially attending the annual forum in Germany – did not comment and a senior Ukrainian official said “talks with Russians in Munich” were “not expected”.

    America’s Nato allies are still reacting to Trump’s surprise announcement this week that he and Russian President Vladimir Putin had agreed in a phone call to begin talks to end the war.

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is due to meet Trump’s Vice-President, JD Vance, in Munich.

    Zelensky is also expected to meet US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

    Rubio’s plane had to turn back to a US airbase in Maryland late on Thursday, after it experienced a “mechanical issue” on its way to the German city. He was then due to take a different plane.

    The US president announced the three-way meeting in Munich during a press conference on Thursday, without giving any further details.

    However, Zelensky adviser Dmytro Lytvyn told reporters the Ukrainian delegation had no plans to attend such a meeting.

    Russia did not immediately respond to a BBC request for comment on the issue.

    Trump’s announcement came a day after he held separate phone calls first with Putin, then with Zelensky.

    Describing the talks as “great”, Trump said there was a “good possibility of ending that horrible, very bloody war”.

    But he said it was not “practical” for Kyiv to join the Nato military alliance and also “unlikely” that Ukraine could return to its pre-invasion borders in 2014.

    Zelensky – who admitted it was “not very pleasing” that Trump had spoken to Putin before him – warned that Ukraine would not agree to any peace deal proposed by the US and Russia without Kyiv’s involvement.

    “We cannot accept it, as an independent country,” he said, stressing that his priority was “security guarantees”, something he did not see without US support.

    Zelensky said European allies “needed to be at the negotiating table too”, amid growing fears across the continent that Trump’s overture to Putin could lead to a separate US-Russia deal on Ukraine’s and Europe’s future.

    French President Emmanuel Macron told the Financial Times that only Zelensky could negotiate on behalf of his country with Russia, warning a “peace that is a capitulation” would be “bad news for everyone”.

    EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said: “Any quick fix is a dirty deal.”

    In Munich, Zelensky’s goals in his meeting with Vance seem clear: to encourage the US to continue to stand by Ukraine and keep the beleaguered nation’s best interests in mind as it tries to negotiate an end to the war.

    What the Americans want from this meeting is more uncertain. Vance may try to assure Zelensky that the Ukrainians will be involved in the forthcoming peace negotiations, even if lately it seems as though they will be a junior partner.

    Vance, in fact, may be delivering a blunt message – one that Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said publicly on Monday, even if he later walked it back somewhat. The US does not envision a Nato that includes Ukraine. And in order to end the war, Ukraine will have to give up territory that is currently under Russian control

    It may be a bitter pill for Zelensky to swallow, but the kind of additional US military aid to Ukraine that it eventually would need to keep up the fight seems unlikely at this point.

    Neither Trump nor Trump’s Republican Party in Congress have much interest in keeping the support going.

    Following the overthrow of Ukraine’s pro-Russian president in 2014, Moscow annexed the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea and backed pro-Russian separatists in bloody fighting in eastern Ukraine.

    The conflict burst into all-out war when Russia invaded Ukraine nearly three years ago.

    Moscow’s attempts to take conutrol of the capital Kyiv were thwarted, but Russian forces have taken around one-fifth of Ukraine’s territory in the east and south, and have carried out air strikes across the country.

    Ukraine has retaliated with artillery and drone strikes, as well as a ground offensive against Russia’s western Kursk region.

    Accurate casualty counts are hard to come by due to secrecy by both the Russian and Ukrainian governments, but it is estimated that hundreds of thousands of people, most of them soldiers, have been killed or injured, and millions of Ukrainian civilians have fled as refugees.

     

     

  • Power shift at the AU as diplomatic chess game begins

    Power shift at the AU as diplomatic chess game begins

    The African Union Commission (AUC) is preparing for a major leadership transition as elections for its top positions take place on 15-16th February 2025.

    This structured process follows strict regional, gender and merit-based principles to ensure balanced representation across Africa.

    The AUC comprises a Chairperson, a Deputy Chairperson and six Commissioners who oversee various portfolios.

    While the Assembly of Heads of State and Government elects the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson, the Executive Council, made up of ministers from AU member states, elects the six Commissioners.

    Each position carries a four-year term, renewable once.

    This year’s election follows the AU’s established rotation system, which ensures equitable regional representation.

    Consequently, the Eastern region nominated candidates for the Chairperson’s position, while the Northern region put forward nominees for the Deputy Chairperson role.

    Meanwhile, the Central, Southern and Western regions will compete for the six Commissioner positions.

    To maintain transparency and fairness, the AUC elections follow a structured, multi-round voting process.

    A candidate must secure a two-thirds majority to win.

    If no candidate reaches this threshold in the first round, additional rounds take place.

    However, after three unsuccessful rounds, the candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated.

    If only two candidates remain and neither attains the required majority, the lowest-scoring candidate is dropped, leaving one finalist.

    If the final candidate still fails to secure the necessary votes, the election is suspended.

    Since 2021, the AU has introduced reforms to enhance transparency and merit-based selection.

    As a result, the process now mandates regional balance, gender parity and accountability.

    Furthermore, countries are required to nominate both male and female candidates to ensure fair representation.

    Kenya’s Raila Odinga in the Race for AUC Chairperson

    As part of this structured process, Kenya has fielded a candidate for the AUC Chairperson position.

    Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga will face off against Mahmoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti and Madagascar’s Richard Randriamandrato.

    In preparation for the elections, the three candidates participated in a highly anticipated televised debate on December 13, 2024.

    During the debate, they outlined their vision for Africa’s transformation, emphasizing their plans to implement the AU Mandate and Africa’s Agenda 2063.

    While each candidate highlighted their strategies to strengthen continental unity, they also addressed critical issues such as economic growth, security and governance.

    However, securing the AUC Chairperson seat is no easy task.

    The winning candidate must gain the support of at least two-thirds of the 55 voting AU member states, equivalent to 33 votes.

    With diplomatic lobbying intensifying, the February elections in Addis Ababa are expected to be a defining moment for Africa’s future leadership.

    Ultimately, the decisions made during this transition will shape the AU’s ability to address political, economic and security challenges over the next four years.

    Therefore, the outcome will not only determine the next AUC Chairperson but also influence the direction of Africa’s continental agenda for years to come.

  • Ruto applauds AU leadership, as Raila seeks top job

    Ruto applauds AU leadership, as Raila seeks top job

    President William Ruto has reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to strengthening the African Union (AU) as the continental body prepares for a leadership transition.

    Speaking after a meeting with outgoing African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat in Addis Ababa, President Ruto praised his leadership over the past eight years, highlighting his efforts in fostering political stability, economic growth and security across Africa.

    “The African Union has increasingly become a strong voice for the continent and Member States. We will continue revamping our organisation to make it fit-for-purpose to effectively deal with political, economic, and security challenges,” Ruto stated on his official X (formerly Twitter) page.

    With the AU Commission elections scheduled for Saturday, the meeting comes at a crucial time, as Kenya’s Raila Odinga remains a leading contender for the chairmanship.

    The former Prime Minister has been actively lobbying for the position, securing endorsements from various African leaders who support his vision for a more integrated and prosperous continent.

    Odinga’s candidacy is seen as a strategic move for Kenya to enhance its influence within the AU, aligning with Ruto’s broader agenda of strengthening Africa’s institutional frameworks.

    As the election approaches, all eyes are on Addis Ababa, where African leaders will determine the future leadership of the AU Commission in a vote that could shape the continent’s trajectory in the coming years.

  • Counties clash with State over affordable housing in devolution dispute

    Counties clash with State over affordable housing in devolution dispute

    The Council of Governors (CoG) has escalated its dispute with the national government over the ongoing construction of affordable housing projects and market centers, demanding that these devolved functions be handed over to county governments.

    The CoG is now calling on the Controller of Budget (CoB) to block the national government from implementing the multi-billion-shilling projects, arguing that counties should have full control over these developments.

    This stance was reinforced during a two-day retreat of the Executive and Liaison, Management, and Business Committee held at Enashipai Spa in Naivasha.

    Speaking to the press, Committee Chair and Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga emphasized that affordable housing and market construction fall under county jurisdiction.

    “The Controller of Budget recently stopped counties from issuing bursaries, citing it as a function of the national government. The same principle should apply to housing and markets, which are devolved functions,” said Kahiga, flanked by fellow governors.

    The CoG also raised concerns over the lack of a pension and medical scheme for governors, stating that unlike other senior state officials, county chiefs lack financial security after leaving office.

    “It’s only governors and MCAs who do not have a pension scheme. We have initiated a process to establish one, along with a comprehensive medical cover for governors,” he added.

    On revenue allocation, the CoG rejected the Commission on Revenue Allocation’s (CRA) proposed new formula, warning that it would disadvantage 31 counties.

    “We are asking the national government to reinstate the Ksh 400.1 billion equitable share for counties, considering the increase in the national budget,” said Kahiga.

    Regarding the Cabinet’s recent decision to merge 42 state corporations and scrap six, governors insisted that the assets and funds of the affected entities should be transferred to counties.

    “The Cabinet must implement its decision in a manner that ensures all devolved functions, along with their resources, are transferred to counties,” he stated.

    Additionally, governors resolved to stop contributions to Tier II under the NSSF Act, asserting that counties would enact their own legislation to manage urban financing.

    To ensure proper oversight of devolved functions, the CoG emphasized that national ministries undertaking county functions must sign Intergovernmental Participation Agreements (IPA) as required by law.

    “Going forward, the Controller of Budget should immediately stop approving any national government spending on county functions unless there is a legally binding IPA,” Kahiga concluded.

  • Wetang’ula clarifies MPs’ self-funded trip for AUC election

    Wetang’ula clarifies MPs’ self-funded trip for AUC election

    National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has dismissed media reports claiming that Parliament funded the travel of at least 100 MPs to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, ahead of the African Union Commission (AUC) election, where former Prime Minister Raila Odinga is vying for the chairperson position.

    Addressing the House on Thursday, Wetang’ula clarified that he had received notifications from around 40 MPs intending to travel, in line with parliamentary standing orders.

    He emphasized that these members are attending the event in their private capacities to support Odinga’s bid and are not funded by taxpayers.

    “The official Parliamentary delegation comprises only four members. The additional 40 MPs are travelling as private citizens and leaders, financing their own expenses. We commend them for undertaking this patriotic duty,” Wetang’ula stated.

    He dismissed accusations that Parliament had allocated resources for the trip, defending MPs’ right to attend international events at their own cost.

    “There has been a barrage of claims suggesting that Parliament sent 100 MPs to Addis Ababa. The truth is, if all 100 members decided to travel and could afford to sponsor themselves, that is their right. However, Parliament does not have the resources to fund such a trip,” he said.

    Acknowledging the high cost of travel and accommodation in Addis Ababa, he praised the MPs who have chosen to finance their attendance.

    “Let’s appreciate those who have taken it upon themselves to fund their travel. Addis Ababa is among the most expensive cities in Africa, with hotel rates averaging between $400 and $500 per night. Their patriotism deserves recognition,” he added.

    Wetang’ula concluded by wishing Raila Odinga success in the upcoming AUC election, recalling their long-standing political journey since entering Parliament together in 1992.

  • Ex-Governor Waititu remanded, fined Ksh 53.5M or 12 years jail

    Ex-Governor Waititu remanded, fined Ksh 53.5M or 12 years jail

    Former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu, also known as Baba Yao, has been remanded at Industrial Area Prison alongside his co-convicts, Luke Wahinya and Charles Chege, following their conviction in a Ksh 588 million road tender graft case.

    The trio has requested the court to release exhibits in their case, stating their intention to appeal the ruling at the High Court.

    Meanwhile, Waititu’s wife, Susan Wangari, pleaded with the court to be held in the cells instead of being taken to prison immediately, as her daughter, who was present in court, processes her fine.

    Chief Magistrate Thomas Nzioki sentenced Waititu to a fine of Ksh 53.5 million or, in default, 12 years in prison after finding him guilty of conflict of interest.

    The court ruled that he benefited from Ksh 25.5 million in kickbacks and must pay double the amount or serve the sentence as per the law.

    Nzioki noted that the prosecution had proven Waititu’s failure to uphold governance values and safeguard public funds.

    The testimony of 32 witnesses and documentary evidence established that Ksh 25 million was funnelled to him through his company, Saika Two Developers and his business, Bienvenue Hotel, after awarding the tender to Testimony Enterprises Limited.

    “This is a classic case of conflict of interest, debunking the much-hyped theory of political witch-hunt as claimed by Waititu,” Magistrate Nzioki stated.

    His wife, Susan Wangari, was fined Ksh 1 million or, in default, will serve 12 months in prison.

    Testimony Enterprises Limited director Charles Chege received the heaviest fine of Ksh 294.5 million.

    The court warned him against engaging in procurement deals that violate legal procedures.

    The ruling also implicated Engineer Waihinya as the mastermind of the fraudulent scheme.

    The court found he had manipulated the tender evaluation process by unlawfully removing critical requirements, violating the Constitution and unfairly disadvantaging four other bidders to favour Testimony Enterprises Limited, a company that lacked the capacity to execute the project.

    “I have no doubt in my mind that the contract is a fraud… It is a mockery of the law,” Magistrate Nzioki ruled.

    While the court convicted Waititu, his wife and the directors of Testimony Enterprises Limited on graft-related charges, they were acquitted on three counts of money laundering.

    The court also upheld the charge of unlawful acquisition of public property against Testimony Enterprises Limited and its directors, further exposing their role in the fraudulent tender.

    Waititu, his wife and other county officials were first charged in the corruption case on July 29, 2019.