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Author: KBC Digital

  • Nakuru County launches repairs on feeder roads damaged by recent rains

    Nakuru County launches repairs on feeder roads damaged by recent rains

    Nakuru County has initiated repairs on feeder roads severely damaged by the recent heavy rains that caused widespread destruction across the country.

    The county has allocated Ksh 100 million to address critical repairs across all 55 wards, while also preparing a budget for extensive rehabilitation of major roads and bridges affected by the downpours.

    The heavy rains, which struck three months ago, resulted in numerous fatalities, extensive property damage, and significant infrastructure disruption.

    Naivasha, in particular, was severely impacted following a dam burst in Kijabe, which led to over 60 deaths in Mai Mahiu and the destruction of numerous roads in the area.

    Michael Kamau, CEC for Roads and Infrastructure, reported that the rains had adversely affected all wards in the county.

    Initially, Ksh 100 million was earmarked for road works, a portion of which is now being used for immediate repair efforts.

    Kamau explained, “Most of the repair works have been undertaken using county machinery and staff. We are focusing on roads damaged by the recent rains.”

    He made these comments following a tour of the Naivasha-Mirera road, where a connecting bridge was swept away, significantly disrupting transport in the area.

    The county is also working on a larger budget to address major road repairs, with plans to engage contractors for these more extensive projects.

    Lakeview MCA Virginia Wamaitha highlighted the extensive damage caused by the rains in her ward, which is home to many flower farm workers.

    She assured that repair work on the ‘Musaka-bridge’ would commence in the coming months once funding is secured for the contractor.

    “Motorists using this road connecting Naivasha to Mirera estate have endured significant hardship, but we are committed to resolving this issue soon,” Wamaitha promised.

    Stephen Kamau, Chairman of the local boda boda association, expressed concerns about daily losses due to damaged roads, emphasizing the urgent need for repairs.

    Similarly, Francis Gachengo from the matatu sector called for road expansion and the construction of a permanent bridge to alleviate ongoing transportation issues.

    The county’s repair efforts are aimed at restoring essential transport links and mitigating the impact of future weather-related disruptions.

  • Health ministry staff trained on evidence, gender inclusion in policy-making processes

    Health ministry staff trained on evidence, gender inclusion in policy-making processes

    Despite the critical role of evidence-informed decision-making in improving policy, programme, and practice decisions, challenges persist at individual, system, and institutional levels.

    According to Dr Violet Murunga, a Research and Policy Analyst at the African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP), key barriers include insufficient relationships between policymakers and evidence producers, untimely and irrelevant evidence, lack of gender and social inclusion data, and limited capacity for evidence synthesis and application.

    To address these challenges, the AFIDEP-led Alliance for Evidence and Equity in Policymaking in Africa (AEEPA) project in partnership with the Division of Reproductive Maternal Neonatal Child and Adolescent Health (RMNCAH), the Directorate of Policy, Digital Health (DPDH) and Innovations, and the Division of Policy, Health Research and Research (PHRR) are conducting a comprehensive 5-day Evidence-Informed Policy-Making (EIPM) training programme, followed by a 6-month mentorship for Ministry of Health (MoH) staff.

    Speaking in Machakos County on Monday, Dr Murunga said the EIPM training aims to equip policymakers with skills to systematically identify, appraise, synthesize, and adapt relevant evidence, including gender and social inclusion data, into the policy-making process.

    She said the training will also enhance capacity for rapid evidence reviews, enabling timely and relevant policy decisions and foster collaboration and knowledge exchange at national, sub-national, and regional levels.

    The training is designed to bridge the gap between evidence production and policy implementation, ensuring that decisions are based on robust, relevant, and timely datadata.

    Dr Murunga said AFIDEP aims to contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through improved health outcomes and equitable development and thus views the critical role the ministry of health plays in this.

    Other counties that have had this type of trainings include Nigeria, Malawi and Uganda.

    The AFIDEP-led Alliance for Evidence and Equity in Policymaking in Africa project is funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and Hewlett Foundation.

  • Nikita Kering’ honours the dead during Blankets & Wine performance

    Nikita Kering’ honours the dead during Blankets & Wine performance

    In a show of solidarity for her fans and the youth, Nikita Kering’ paid tribute to the young people the country had lost over the past two months during her performance at Blankets and Wine.

    Ms Kering’ sang a cover of “Stand Up” by Cynthia Erivo as the names scrolled on the screen in the background.

    This song, originally from the soundtrack of the film “Harriet,” about the life of Harriet Tubman, is a powerful anthem of struggle, perseverance, and hope. Its lyrics, speak to the courage required to stand against oppression.

    The song provided a fitting and emotional backdrop for the tribute.

    Kenya has been mired by protests since June 18 which began as a demand for the rejection of the Finance Bill 2024. The focus of the protests have since shifted from the bill to calls for transparency and accountability from those in public office.

    KBC Digital has reached out to Ms Kering’s team for comment.

    Ms Kering’, known for her soulful voice and compelling lyrics has been a favourite in the music scene since her debut in 2018. Since then she has won multiple AFRIMMA awards and a selection for Spotify’s Equal Africa programme.

    Kenyans on social media have expressed their delight at the tribute expressing their gratitude. Ms Kering has made no comment about the performance other than to share reactions from her fans on her Instagram pages.

    Blankets and Wine took place over the weekend with Sanaipei Tnade, Savara, Bensoul and Samthing Soweto headlining the event alongside Kering’.

    It is an apolitical event that hosts four festival editions every 1st Sunday of each quarter and the last Sunday before Christmas at the Laureate Garden, within (the Home of Heroes) Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/C9_6g0sMyDy/?hl=en&img_index=1

  • Saudia Concludes Hajj Season operations

    Saudia Concludes Hajj Season operations

    Saudia has successfully concluded Hajj Season operations marking the end of a 74-day journey.

    Saudi Arabia’s national flag carrier final flight departed from Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madina, carrying 320 pilgrims to Magelang, Indonesia.

    A farewell ceremony was held at the airport’s departure hall in the presence of Mohammed Baakdah, the Vice President of Ground Operations at Saudia.

    “The success of Hajj Season 1445H operations is a testament to the dedication and teamwork of our entire staff. We worked tirelessly throughout this busy period, including holidays and Eid, to ensure our guests had a safe and fulfilling experience,” said Mohammed Baakdah, the Vice President of Ground Operations at Saudia.

    The airline said it maintained a high level of operational efficiency, achieving exceptional on-time performance despite the challenges of coinciding the Hajj season with peak summer season 2024 operations.

    “We are grateful for the cooperation of all Hajj-related authorities and look forward to building on this success as we begin planning for Hajj Season 1446H,” added Baakdah.

    The airline offered a comprehensive array of quality services designed to enhance the pilgrims’ spiritual journey.

    These services included digital platforms to streamline the travel process, facilitation at airports to expedite procedures, exceptional in-flight services and catering, and informative programs on the in-flight entertainment screens in multiple languages

  • Mastercard Foundation successfully convened inaugural EdTech conference in Nigeria

    Mastercard Foundation successfully convened inaugural EdTech conference in Nigeria

    The Mastercard Foundation, through its Centre for Innovative Teaching and Learning, recently hosted its inaugural EdTech Conference in Abuja, Nigeria. The conference was a biennial convening. This year, the forum was being hosted in partnership with the Federal Government of Nigeria.

    In line with the African Union’s Year of Education, the 2024 Mastercard Foundation EdTech Conference was themed, ‘Education Technology for Resilient and Inclusive Learning in Africa.’

    Conversations centered on the current state of the EdTech ecosystem, emerging trends, the role of EdTech in solving Africa’s educational challenges, and policies that are needed to foster an enabling environment for technology-enabled innovation in education.

    Technology is a powerful enabler of possibility and progress,” said Reeta Roy, President and Chief Executive Officer at the Mastercard Foundation.

    “Across Africa, young innovators and entrepreneurs are bringing new energy and ideas to the education sector. Some are innovations that could shift ecosystems and the future for many. This inaugural conference brings together young people, EdTech innovators, policymakers, investors, philanthropists, data scientists, and others to accelerate progress toward digitally-enabled educational platforms and systems that deliver inclusive learning for all,” noted Reeta Roy

    EdTech ecosystem stakeholders from across the continent working at the nexus of education and ICT shared their expertise on practical solutions that can increase access to quality, relevant and inclusive education in Africa.

    “Africa could change the course of education delivery by investing in home-grown innovative solutions that bridge access and learning gaps. This conference is an opportunity to reflect on what is working and align on the actions needed to take African EdTech to the next level of impact,” added Joseph Nsengimana, the Director for the Mastercard Foundation Centre for Innovative Teaching and Learning.

    The inaugural Mastercard Foundation EdTech Conference underscored the role of technology in catalyzing transformation within Africa’s education ecosystem.

     

  • DP Gachagua appeals to Kenyans to support Ruto’s broad-based gov’t

    DP Gachagua appeals to Kenyans to support Ruto’s broad-based gov’t

    Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua says he fully supports President William Ruto’s decision on appointment of new Cabinet Secretaries and is ready to work with the nominees upon approval by Parliament.

    Gachagua said that his work is to assist the President, and he is okay with the formation of a broad-based Government, under which four members of the opposition party have been nominated to the new Cabinet.

    “I have no objection with the new nominees and formation of broad-based Government by the President. Let the new nominees come we work together for the people of Kenya. As the Deputy President and Principal Assistant to the President, my work is to support him, respect and be loyal to him. I support his decisions,” said Gachagua dispelling claims of discontentment.

    The DP said the four nominees -Wycliffe Oparanya, Hassan Joho, John Mbadi and Opiyo Wandayi- picked from Orange Democratic Movement are welcome to the Cabinet.

    Speaking after a church service in Nyandarua, Gachagua said the broad-based Government will help the President succeed in implementing his development plan.

    “We have no problem (with formation of broad-based Government by the President); we are contented with his decision. Let the new nominees come we work together for the people of Kenya. My work is to support the President, be loyal, advise and work with him,” said Gachagua.

    While asking Kenyans to rally behind the President, the DP said he will continue carrying out his mandate as the principal assistant to the President.

    After the Church service, the Deputy President addressed the people at Engineer Town where he reiterated his call for national unity and asked leaders embrace each other.

    He urged Kenyans to participate in governance, decision-making processes.

    “Voters and Kenyans in general should start questioning their leaders to enhance accountability in governance and make the leaders accountable on the decisions they make on public issues. The political leaders that are being used to pull others down and drive a wedge in the Mt Kenya community should be cautious because their mission will fail,” he said.

    Similarly, Gachagua called on political leaders to focus their energies on pushing for issues that will benefit the socio-economic growth of the people and shun propaganda and divisive politics of ‘pulling down top leaders’.

    On development, the Deputy President highlighted the Government’s development plan and stated that the Ruto Administration will increase access to  subsidised to reach more farmers to improve the country’s food productivity.

    “We will supply more fertilizer so that all farmers can benefit and concentrate on food production. Construction of Nyandarua Industrial Park, is ongoing to benefit farmers. Plans for construction of Engineer market are ongoing and other projects,” said Gachagua.

    He added that the Government has set aside Ksh1 billion to boost rural electricity program in Nyandarua County and connect more rural households to power.

    He further announced that the Government has allocated funds for establishment of a Museum in honour of former freedom fighters Dedan Kimathi and Mukami Kimathi.

    “Funds for construction of a Museum for our freedom hero Kimathi and his wife Mukami have been set aside,” he said.

    He was accompanied by Nyandarua Governor Dr Kiarie Badilisha, Deputy Governor Mathara Mwangi, Senators John Methu (Nyandarua) and Karungo Thang’wa (Kiambu), Naivasha MP Jayne Kihara and MCAs led by Nyandarua County Assembly Majority leader Mwangi Nyagah, among other leaders.

    Gachagua further castigated those criticsizing him over his decision to advocate for unity and being available to the people.

    “I have a weakness of loving my people from from Mt Kenya backyard. You may have to forgive me. It does not mean I have a problem with the other Kenyans. The rest of Kenya are also our friends and we talk same language and we understand each other. Let us love each other, support each other, stay close to each other and care for each other,” he stated.

  • Chinese VP wishes Paris Olympics success during his talks with Macron

    Chinese VP wishes Paris Olympics success during his talks with Macron

    Han Zheng, Chinese vice president and President Xi Jinping’s special representative to attend the opening ceremony of the 33rd Olympic Games wished the Paris Games success during his talks with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Elysee Palace in Paris on Friday afternoon.

    Conveying Xi and his wife Peng Liyuan’s greetings to Macron and his wife Brigitte, Han said he was glad to be invited to attend the opening ceremony.

    Han said President Xi’s state visit to France in May was a success, which not only showcased the high level of the China-France friendship but was also of great significance to the steady development of China-Europe relations and world peace and stability.

    Macron also said Xi’s visit to France in May was a great success. The French president asked Han to convey his sincere greetings to Xi and Peng, expressed appreciation, and welcomed Han to attend the opening ceremony.

    On Friday night, Han was among a host of international dignitaries in attendance at the opening ceremony.

    On the same day, Han also held talks with other state leaders including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Djiboutian President Ismail Omar Guelleh.

  • Multi-agency team thwarts planned Al Shabaab attack in Garissa

    Multi-agency team thwarts planned Al Shabaab attack in Garissa

    A multi-agency team, acting on intelligence, successfully foiled a planned Al Shabaab attack in Alango, along the Garissa-Dadaab Road on Saturday.

    The militants were at an advanced stage of the attack at a hideout in a forested area South of Alango waiting for an opportune moment to strike.

    However, security forces disrupted their plans, killing two Al Shabaab militants on the spot while others escaped with injuries.

    Among the items recovered from the hideout were two AK47 Rifles, 7 magazines, IED making materials among other assorted food items.

    Security teams are on the trail of the fleeing militants.

    Meanwhile, the general public has been urged to share information with security officers on the injured suspects.

  • Fight against drugs and substance abuse bearing fruits, says Dorcas Rigathi

    Fight against drugs and substance abuse bearing fruits, says Dorcas Rigathi

    The Spouse of the Deputy President Pastor Dorcas Rigathi has appreciated the efforts taken in the fight against alcoholism, drugs and substance abuse saying there is success in the efforts.

    She spoke during a sensitization forum for High School Students from 20 schools as part of the preventive program against addictions and over 5,000 clergy from lower Eastern region at the Machakos University grounds.

    “I am going to continue with the affirmative action for the boy child, so the men can live and not die, and also keep away from alcohol and drugs,” said Pastor Dorcas.

    “Alcohol and drug abuse does not choose religion. We have very serious addictions, in all religions, and across races. Drug addiction is in all homes, among the poor and the rich. This is a demon traversing all boundaries ravaging our children and communities. Many mothers and fathers are troubled, and we must do something about it,” she added.

    NACADA Eastern Region Regional Manager Alex Njeru, and other Nacada officials sensitized the students and clergy on the emerging trends in drug abuse and ways of handling those in addictions during rehabilitation, post-rehabilitation, and even caring for those who relapse.

    “Kenyans have a habit of binge drinking ‘chafua meza’, a situation where alcoholic drinks line a table. However, these kinds of leisure activities that involve addictive substances result in increased family problems, malnutrition, and cancer of the mouth, stomach, and throat among others,” warned Mr Njeru.

    Machakos University Vice Chancellor Prof. Joyce Agalo warned that the effects of addictions result to student drop-outs, abusive relationships, poor health, constrained family relationships, low academic performance, loss of future opportunities, loss of self-identity, and even suicide.

  • President Ruto condoles with Ethiopia after deadly landslide

    President Ruto condoles with Ethiopia after deadly landslide

    President William Ruto has extended his condolences to the people of Ethiopia for the loss of lives in the Gozdi Kebele landslide.

    He assured Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed of Kenya’s support during this difficult time.

    “Our thoughts and prayers are with the affected families,” he said.

    The devastating landslide has so far claimed the lives of more than 257 people and affected over 15,000 people.

    President Ruto commended the local authorities and the Ethiopian Red Cross and the entire Government machinery for their tireless efforts in search and rescue operations.

    “Their bravery and dedication are crucial in these challenging times,” he said.

    The landslides occurred on Sunday evening and Monday morning, after heavy rains in a remote mountainous area of the Gofa zone.

    Gofa is part of the state known as Southern Ethiopia, located around 320km (199 miles) south-west of the capital, Addis Ababa.

    Southern Ethiopia is among the areas of the country that have been hit by particularly heavy rain and flooding in recent months.