Author: Eric Biegon

Lessons from 1998 Nairobi bombing on international counter-terrorism collaboration

August 7th, 1998 etched an indelible and sombre chapter in our history, a day that thrust us into the heart of darkness as the American Embassy in Nairobi, fell prey to the calculated assault of the Al Qaeda terrorist organization.

The cataclysmic events that unfurled on that fateful day reverberated across the globe, illuminating the relentless march of international terrorism to menacing heights. Within the confines of Nairobi, chaos erupted as a seismic explosion shattered the tranquility of the US Embassy, leaving a wake of devastation that seared into our collective memory.

The loud sounds of destruction were quickly replaced by loud cries of fear and urgent calls for help. The dark smoke rising from the ruins created a gloomy and eerie atmosphere, showing the terrible things that had happened.

In an endeavour to illuminate the shadow cast by the August 7th, 1998, bombing, we turn to the insights of a stalwart defender of peace. Mr. Charles Ikenye, a Counter Terrorism Expert, and the esteemed Executive Director of Epuka Ugaidi Organization, who unearths the intricate implications of this pivotal event on the landscape of counterterrorism efforts.

Can you provide an overview of the August 7th, 1998, bombing in Nairobi and its significance in the context of global terrorism?

The August 7th, 1998, bombing in Nairobi emerged as a tragic occurrence, showcasing a new and alarming facet of terrorism. This event, often referred to as the precursor of modern terrorism, was orchestrated by Al Qaeda under the leadership of Osama bin Laden. Its impact extended beyond Kenya, shaping a global awareness of the escalating menace of terrorism. This event marked a pivotal moment that catalysed a broadened perspective within counter-terrorism efforts, urging a unified global stance against the rise of global jihadism.

Do you think we were prepared for the event?

Regarding our preparedness for the event, it’s a mixed assessment. While our country is consistently vigilant in addressing security concerns, the nature of this attack posed unique challenges. It deviated from conventional security issues, catching us off guard due to its novelty. Uncertainty prevailed regarding the responsible entity—military, police, private security, or international authorities. The attack, though unexpected, prompted us to seize the opportunity for study and learning to enhance our preparedness.

Since the 1998 bombing, Kenya’s counter-terrorism capacity has undergone significant evolution. The attack served as a pivotal learning point, prompting us to delve into the complexities of global jihadism. Our approach shifted towards a comprehensive understanding of terrorist tactics and modus operandi, leading to the establishment of specialized units within both the military and the police force to counter terrorism.

We’ve recognized that countering terrorism goes beyond addressing the act itself—it involves countering the underlying ideology. This realization has propelled us to adopt a holistic strategy. Our response now encompasses not only security agencies but also embraces the soft power approach, leading to the creation of the National Counter Terrorism Centre. This centre focuses on mitigating terrorism through psychological, ideological, and societal means, fostering a multidimensional approach to combating this threat.

How did the Nairobi bombing influence the evolution of counter-terrorism tactics and approaches globally?

The 1998 Nairobi bombing significantly impacted the evolution of global counter-terrorism tactics. The attack underscored the shift towards globalized terrorism, as terrorists sought targets beyond their immediate regions. This realization prompted the necessity for counter-terrorism measures that transcend geographical borders. Consequently, a globalized approach emerged, fostering collaboration and coordination among counter-terrorism stakeholders worldwide. The Nairobi bombing acted as a catalyst, prompting a unified effort to combat terrorism on a global front.

How has the bombing affected your life in the long term, both physically and emotionally?

The long-term impact of the bombing is profound, affecting individuals physically and emotionally. Many, bear permanent scars from the attack, with lives lost and families shattered. Lifelong psychological trauma persists, underscoring the need for comprehensive care post-terror attack. Victims continue to grapple with enduring physical and psychological effects.

Sadly, lack of immediate support due to the novelty of the situation left deep scars that persist today. Lives were forever altered by the 1998 attack, highlighting the urgency of addressing the lasting consequences of terrorism.

What message would you like to convey to those who might not fully understand the consequences of such attacks on individuals and communities?

Safeguarding against another 1998 bombing is a shared duty for every member of our community. If you observe suspicious activities, ideologies promoted by rogue clerics, or unusual behaviour within a group or individual, it is your responsibility to report it, even at a minimum to the police. Recognizing signs of potential future terrorists is crucial. A hotline, like the National Counterterrorism Centre (0800721600), is available for such concerns. The fight against terrorism is no longer solely the realm of security agencies; it’s a collective obligation spanning all ages, backgrounds, and statuses.

At Epuka Ugaidi, we believe that the aftermath of the tragic August 7th, 1998, bombing in Nairobi revealed a significant shift in counter-terrorism strategies. This seminal event spurred a global awakening to the cross-border nature of modern terrorism. While reflecting on its lasting impact on individuals and communities, the imperative for collective vigilance and responsibility emerges prominently. By understanding the consequences of such attacks and actively engaging in counter-terrorism efforts, we can forge a safer and more resilient future for all. As we commemorate this solemn anniversary, we honour the resilience of the Kenyan people and the memories of the lives lost.

Winstone Wasonga is the Head of Programs Epuka Ugaidi Organization

August 8, 2023
First 350-km/h high-speed rail launched in mountainous Guizhou

A Fuxing bullet train departed on Tuesday morning from Guiyang, capital city of southwest China’s Guizhou Province, marking the full operation of the Guiyang-Libo section of the Guiyang-Nanning High-speed Railway.

The Guiyang-Nanning High-speed Railway is the first high-speed rail with a designed speed of 350 km/h for both Guizhou Province and south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, of which Nanning is the capital city.

Due to complicated landforms along the rail section, including high mountains and steep valleys, the Guiyang-Libo section consists of 86 bridges and 62 tunnels. The mileage of bridges and tunnels accounts for 90 percent of the total mileage of the section.

August 8, 2023
20 Lecturers, tutors from East African technical and vocational institutes selected for postgraduate studies in China

The Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA) in partnership with the People’s Republic of China and the World Bank, have awarded twenty (20) scholarships to lecturers and tutors from Technical and Vocational Education and Training Institutes (TVET) across East Africa for post-graduate studies at top Universities in China.

The scholarships were awarded to lecturers and tutors from Ethiopia, Kenya and Tanzania as part of capacity building on the academic and technical capacity of faculty members from Regional TVET Centres of Excellence.

The scholarship is part of the East African Skills for Transformation and Regional Integration Project (EASPRIP), funded by the World Bank, to improve the quality and relevance of TVET programmes in the region.

Out of the 20 scholarships awarded, 8 are from Ethiopia, 6 are from Kenya, and 6 are from Tanzania, with 30 per cent of the total scholarships being awarded to females.

In a press statement, the Executive Secretary of IUCEA, Prof. Gaspard Banyankimbona expressed gratitude to the People’s Republic of China and the World Bank for the financial support that has made the scholarship possible.

“I would like to thank the People’s Republic of China, through the Ministry of Education, and the World Bank for their financial support towards the EASTRIP China TVET Scholarship programme,” he said.

Banyankimbona stated that the scholarship supports the institution’s commitment to transforming the TVET systems in East Africa by building capacity of TVET faculty to enhance their skills and knowledge and improve the quality and relevance of TVET programmes.

“This will have a profound impact on reducing youth unemployment through practical hands-on skills development,” he added.

The selected candidates went through a rigorous multilevel selection process involving the college management, IUCEA, the China Scholarship Council, and Chinese universities.

To qualify for the EASTRIP-China TVET Scholarships, applicants needed to be employed and nominated by an institution that hosts EASTRIP Regional Flagship Technical Institute (RFTIs) demonstrated by a working bond agreement between the institution and the candidate.

They also had to apply for further studies in a field of study that is relevant to EASTRIP priority areas and further possess demonstrable academic excellence.

Among the six Kenyans who qualified for the scholarship programme include Mbuya, Felix Omondi from Kenya Coast National Polytechnic College to pursue MSc. Food Science and Engineering at Shanghai Ocean University, Karani Moses Mwenda from Meru National Polytechnic to pursue MSc. Building Environment and Equipment Engineering at Liaoning Technical University and Kennedy Victoria Banchiri from Meru National Polytechnic to pursue MSc. Urban and Rural Planning at Beijing Jiaotong University.

Others include; Cassim Mariam Namukabo from Kisumu National Polytechnic College to pursue Masters in Arts and Design at Kenya Shihezi University, Ndwiga Beatrice Makena from Meru National Polytechnic to pursue MSc. Electrical Engineering at Nanjing Normal University and Omayio Erick Mbeka from Kisumu National Polytechnic College to pursue MSc. Mechanical Engineering at Chang’an University.

August 8, 2023
President Ruto says Kenya’s economic rebuild on course

President William Ruto has said ongoing efforts by his administration to rebuild the country’s economy are progressing well.

The head of state announced Sunday that courtesy of various interventions by his government, Kenya’s economy is now stable and on track to grow.

He reiterated once again that under his stewardship, the Government will build a solid and sustainable economy through locally-generated resources.

He noted that the Government has significantly weaned itself of external debts and is now more reliant on domestic revenues.

“I am a student of Kenya’s third President Mwai Kibaki whose clarion call was that a country is built with taxes, not debts,” he explained.

President Ruto said the country is doing so well that it is repaying its foreign debts ahead of time.
He cited the $2 billion Eurobond loan that is due June 2024.

“Surprisingly, rating agencies are now complaining that Kenya will pay the debt before time.”

August 6, 2023
Raila denies his side is pushing for share of Ruto’s government

Azimio leader Raila Odinga has scoffed at claims that his coalition was clamoring to join President William Ruto-led Kenya Kwanza government.

While maintaining that the opposition had no such intentions, Raila said his side had agreed to a dialogue with the ruling coalition in order to address the most pressing issues affecting the country, such as the high cost of living.

Speaking at St. Tiberius Ekerubo Catholic Church in Nyamira County during a church service on Sunday, the ODM leader and leaders accompanying took issue with a section of leaders from Kenya Kwanza who have maintained a hard-line position on the impending talks.

“We have not said we want to be in (President William) Ruto’s government. Even those who claim I was in President Uhuru Kenyatta’s government are wrong. I didn’t hold any cabinet position. We neither had a Cabinet Secretary nor a Principal Secretary,” he said

The opposition leader maintained they were ready to engage but vowed to pull out of the talks and prefer the next cause of action if President Ruto’s camp maintain its position. Mr Odinga insists the opposition cannot be dismissed by the ruling party and that issues affecting ordinary citizens including cost of basic commodities must be given priority by the current government.

’’Kenya belongs to all of us that is why we want to dialogue. When Uhuru was president there were food subsidies. We also had kazi kwa vijana. Even the price of fuel was not as high as now. But these prices have been raised” said the former Prime Minister

Both the Azimio and Kenya Kwanza coalitions have already established a five-member team each to lead the talks. The bipartisan team is scheduled to convene this week to determine the modalities that will govern the terms of engagement. The opposition leader recently paused the nationwide protests as he decided to give dialogue with the government another chance.

August 6, 2023
Kitui Governor to grace 2nd edition of Nairobi festival fete

The Counties of Nairobi and Kitui have held discussions to explore possible areas of partnerships and collaboration between both governments with the view of broadening the scope of inter-county tourism.

This was disclosed Sunday when Nairobi City County Executive for Inclusivity, Public Participation and Customer Service Dr. Anastasia Nyalita, accompanied by Chief Officer, City Culture, Arts and Tourism, Clement Sijenye, paid a courtesy call to Kitui Governor Dr. Julius Malombe and his Deputy Governor, Augustine Wambua Kanani.

“Nairobi, as Kenya’s capital, boasts a vibrant urban landscape, cultural diversity, and historical landmarks such as the Nairobi National Park. On the other hand, Kitui County offers breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and the splendid Tsavo East National Park,” said Dr Nyalita,

“By partnering, she added that “Kitui and Nairobi Counties can create curated travel packages that allow tourists to experience the best of both worlds. Tourists can start in Nairobi, enjoying its modern amenities and exploring wildlife at Nairobi National Park. Then, they could venture to Kitui to immerse themselves in the authentic local culture, visit the Tsavo East National Park for a unique safari experience, and admire the stunning landscapes that Kitui offers.”

The discussions also touched on tourism products mapping and packaging in the two counties as well as modalities of symbiotic collaborations with the private sector with the help of the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB). The KTB is working closely with counties to spearhead the development of tourism facilities and experiences to ultimately broaden the scope of tourism across the country.

Speaking during the visit, Nairobi County Chief Officer, City Culture, Arts and Tourism, Clement Sijenyi, said “I am excited at the prospects of Nairobi opening its doors of partnerships and collaborations with other counties, this will be a big boost for counties and sharpen various destinations’ Experiential marketing capabilities. This collaborative marketing efforts will provide a platform for Nairobi to showcase the seamless transition between the city’s urban allure and the county’s natural beauty. Nairobi is also a commercial hub for Eastern and Central Africa. Major airlines with global networks operate in and out of JKIA, which is the gateway to the entire region.”

Dr Nyalita also represented Nairobi county during the 3 day “Destination marketing series phase two sessions alongside tourism representatives from Machakos, Makueni, Kitui, Kajiado, Kiambu, Muranga and Kirinyaga counties.

The respective sessions were used to discuss ways of marketing respective counties ahead of the devolution conference and after; locally, regionally, and internationally.

Said Dr Nyalita, “Soon we will launch a campaign in Nairobi county that will be used to raise the cities iconic sites and to also drive Nairobians to embrace domestic travel, explore new experiences, and contribute to the growth of the local tourism industry. Governor Sakaja Johnsons is very keen on making Nairobi city the destination of choice and a leader in sustainable development of tourism. Nairobi has a rich culture, being a leading historic city, which makes it desirable as a tourist destination. in addition, it is the melting pot for many Kenyan cultures and is the home of many architectural landmarks. We will fully utilise the KTB destination series to market Nairobi, especially since we are gearing up to host the 2nd Edition of the Annual Nairobi Festival. I am also happy to report that the first guest to have registered is H.E, the Governor of Kitui, Dr. Julius Malombe (EGH) and his Deputy Governor, Augustine Wambua Kanani,”

The team was accompanied by Deputy Director, City Culture, Arts and Tourism, Ms. Susan Mukuhi.

August 6, 2023
Nyakera promises to restore KEMSA’s lost glory

The Chairperson of Kenya Medical Supplies Agency (KEMSA) Irungu Nyakera has assured Kenyans that strategies are in place to rebuild the country’s medical logistics provider.

He said the runaway impunity that had become synonymous with the agency is steadily being eradicated and that the institution will soon return to and even surpass its former glory days.

“I know there has been a lot of noise about KEMSA’s past. It’s true KEMSA has had a difficult past but that’s what we are working on; to clean up the image and ensure that we are delivering as per our mandate to the people of Kenya,” said Nyakera on Sunday

Speaking in Laikipia, Nyakera noted that the new leadership at the institution is working round the clock to ensure previous troubles associated with it become a thing of the past.

“We have been engaging national treasury and the Council of Governors to see how counties can fully support KEMSA through payment of outstanding debts to KEMSA currently standing to the tune of Ksh. 3 Billion and to order all their medicine from KEMSA,” he said

In his appeal for partnership with counties, Nyakera made a commitment to ensure that over 90% of orders made by the devolved units are fulfilled.

He also undertook to ensure the delivery of high-quality of drugs from KEMSA. He said this is possible because the agency boasts of modern laboratories besides the introduction of strict procurement procedures.

Over and above these, he says the prices of drugs from KEMSA will be way lower than anywhere else and thus counties and other state institutions ought to make KEMSA their primary supplier of medicine.

August 6, 2023
Scars, horrors that were August 6th 1945 in Hiroshima City

August 6th has stubbornly refused to leave the minds of the Japanese, more so residents of Hiroshima. It is the day that in 1945 hell broke loose visiting a major catastrophe upon Hiroshima, when the United States and its allies detonated the first-ever atomic bomb on human population, and the only one so far.

The Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for Atomic Bomb Victims stands out resolute in Hiroshima City some 4-hour journey from Tokyo by bullet train. The Museum is a living reminder of what happened 78 years ago that ended one of the most vicious wars in global history.

Meeting 90-year-old Sadae Kasaoke at the lecture room at the Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for Atomic Bomb Victims, was nostalgic. This was the person I had only been reading about, but now she was right in front of me.

With the language barrier as she can only speak Japanese, we had to use the universal language, simply smile. Then our guide and translator stepped in to help with the translations.

It is here that she tells the tales of the pain and anguish that the Japanese went through at 8:15am, on August 6th 1945. As a young 12-year-old, Kasaoka, like many other children, had been conscripted to offer services in the war.

“Even when I didn’t go to school, it was time to practice the fighting just in case the enemy attacked,’ she offers.

She was set to join high school, but the call to duty for the country came first. On this day, she had completed an assignment together with others, of demolishing buildings to create spaces between houses that would act as fire buffers in case of a fire outbreak.

On material day, Kasaoka had been assigned to report to the factory that was used in smelting metals to make bullets to be used at the frontline. These metals included any metallic objects that would be collected from homes and everywhere else and delivered to the factory for smelting. “As I made her way to the factory, I was reminded that there was a blackout due to power rationing so we would not be working,” she said and adds, “so I rushed home to do my domestic chores.”

KBC Journalist Judith Akolo and Hiroshima atomic bomb survivor Sadae Kasaoke after an interview at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum in Hiroshima, Japan.

Her parents had left earlier in the morning to help another family that was moving house to make way for the demolition of their house. While hanging her laundry, there was a deafening sound, then immense heat, she run to her grandmother’s house as they had been instructed and together they hid in the bunker, on coming out, everywhere was dark, it was raining black rain.

“At 8:15am on August 6th 1945 the world’s first atomic bomb was dropped on the city of Hiroshima, it was the worst day of our lives,” she says, “we knew it would happen, but this magnitude was too great.”

The closeness to the hypocentre just 3.5 kilometres from their house meant that they were in real danger. Her brothers were already conscripted into the military. Today any mention of war brings sad memories of the happenings of August 6th, 1945. Her lectures at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum have centred on the need to maintain peace around the world. The need to resolve conflict through persuasion and dialogue. They have remained a source of inspiration as well as of the need for disarmament and to maintain a just and peaceful world.

“There should never be another atomic bomb, there should never be another war,” she says, “war makes people suffer, it destroys happy families, more especially the elderly, children and those in a vulnerable situation are the ones who suffer the most.”

Her pain is underpinned by the loss of her parents at a very tender age, “I wish I would have lived with my parents, to get parental love, there should be never another war, let us preach peace around the world.

Inside the museum are various artifacts and plaques, one that stands out is that of 3-years old Shinichi Tetsutani who was riding his tricycle near their home some 1,500 meters from the Hypocentre of the attack, when the bomb exploded, he suffered serious injuries and severe burns, he died that night, but the bicycle and the helmet remain preserved at the Museum together with the plaque of Shinichi and his sister.

The second world war may have ended, but the scars linger on.

August 6, 2023
Kakamega Governor sets date for sugar conference to tackle industry challenges in Western-Nyanza regions

Kakamega Governor, Fernandes Barasa, has emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive sugar conference aimed at addressing the pervasive challenges plaguing the sugar sector in both the Western and Nyanza regions of Kenya.

Speaking in Lurambi, Governor Barasa highlighted that the concerns surrounding the sugar industry extend far beyond Mumias Sugar Company issue.

He emphasized that the challenges are deeply rooted and affect sugarcane farmers across the entire Western and Nyanza regions.

Governor Barasa declared that a multi-stakeholder conference would be crucial in providing a lasting solution to the myriad problems afflicting the sugar sector.

He underscored that the conference would involve the participation of the President, a step he deemed necessary for implementing effective reforms.

Leaders from Western Kenya have rallied behind Governor Barasa’s initiative, commending his efforts to initiate dialogue about the dire state of the sugar industry.

Among the prominent figures who have endorsed the governor’s stance are Lurambi Member of Parliament, Hon. Titus Khamala and Navakholo MP, Hon. Emmanuel Wangwe Both MPs expressed their unwavering support for Governor Barasa’s push for a comprehensive sugar conference.

The proposal for a sugar conference has garnered attention as it seeks to address the long-standing issues that have hindered the growth and stability of the sugar industry in the region.

Stakeholders hope that through collaborative efforts and meaningful discussions, a path toward sustainable solutions can be charted, providing much-needed relief to sugarcane farmers and bolstering the economic prospects of the affected regions.

August 6, 2023
KNUT rallies behind recommendations by Presidential Working Party on Education Reforms

The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) has welcomed recommendations by the Presidential Working Party on Education reforms.

KNUT Secretary General Collins Oyuu says the Working Party report on Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) is based on extensive research especially having taken into consideration the input of stakeholders in the sector, especially the teachers. The Union says it, among other things, supports the recommendation to have junior secondary domiciled in primary schools.

“CBC now has grades 7,8 and 9 domiciled in primary schools under one head,” said the Secretary-General

“KNUT conducted yet another research and we gave our research findings to Prof Raphael Manavu and we inducted all the branches based on the research and every branch knew what to say about CBC and the amendments that we expect. And what the branches said were internalized by the presidential working party,” he added

In Oyuu’s view, the latest recommendations “will succeed any time on the premises of research that we do to have a proper position.”

What’s more, the union said it is backing the report for the reason that the Presidential working party report has addressed issues about the categorization of schools which he says ought to be abolished.

“We must de-categorize schools because we cannot afford to categorize schools anymore. Every child in this country needs education. Categorization of schools brought in a lot of classism,” said Oyuu

He said having de-categorized schools, the Presidential working party has given a lot of room on how the Teachers Service Commission should post teachers while also making valid recommendations on the number of subjects to be taught in schools.

“The working load for teachers in this republic was too much. Based on the number of teachers and what teachers need to teach in the learning areas, the working party has reduced the number of subjects taught at different levels,” he said during a teachers’ Annual General Meeting in Eldama Ravine, Baringo County.

August 6, 2023