Author: KBC Digital

  • BUDGET: Ksh 268B lined up for Bottom-up value chains

    BUDGET: Ksh 268B lined up for Bottom-up value chains

    The government plans to spend Ksh 268 billion in the FY2023/24 budget on value chains that will support delivery of Bottom-Up Transformation Agenda (BETA).

    The budgetary allocation will target five key pillars under, agricultural transformation, Micro and Small Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), housing, healthcare as well as the digital superhighway and creative industry.

    In the FY2023/24 budget estimates, agriculture has been earmarked Ksh 64.6 billion out of which Ksh 3.2 billion will be used for the agricultural and rural inclusive growth project.

    Ksh 8.3 billion will be used to develop and strengthen the value chain in the sector while Ksh 517 million will be used to mitigate climate change.

    Northern Kenya will receive Ksh 765 million to cushion them against drought and an additional Ksh 344 million for commercialization of the livestock project.

    To combat against pests, Ksh 2.3 billion has been set aside for the emergency locust response.

    According to parliament Ksh 250 billion is needed to actualize the affordable housing project.

    Ksh 200 billion of the amount is to be sourced from the pension funds and assets under management while Ksh 50 billion will be sourced from budgetary allocations.

    The housing development and human settlement pillar has been earmarked Ksh 16.2 billion with urban and metropolitan development allocations amounting to Ksh 13.2 billion.

    To increase medical access, the department for medical services has been earmarked 116.6 billion shillings with Ksh 63.5 billion of the amount channeled towards referral and specialized services.

    Public health is expected to receive Ksh 24.6 billion while Ksh 5.9 billion has been proposed for the leasing of medical equipment and Ksh 577.5 million for the primary health in devolved units.

    To prop up startups, the state department for MSMEs has been earmarked Ksh 13.1 billion of which Ksh 10.8 billion will be used for digitization and financial inclusion for small businesses.

    Ksh 20 billion has been earmarked to support the creatives industry of which Ksh 15.9 billion will go towards ICT infrastructure development.

  • New reward scheme for sports record breakers

    New reward scheme for sports record breakers

    A new world record holder will now receive Ksh. 5 Million in a new plan that seeks to escalate Kenya’s profile as a top sporting country.

    President William Ruto said such achievers will also be facilitated with diplomatic passports and conferred other national honours and privileges.

    The Government, he added, is refining necessary policies and facilities to harness the country’s potential in sports.

    “Our sportsmen and women are heroes who have promoted Kenya’s iconic brand globally; we want to acknowledge their invaluable contribution by honouring and rewarding them accordingly.”

    He spoke on Tuesday at State House, Nairobi, during the State reception for Faith Kipyegon and Ferdinand Omanyala.

    Kipyegon made history when she set two world records in a week: breaking the 1,500M in Florence, Italy and 5,000M in Paris France.

    “Faith stands as a shining role-model for consistency, discipline, hard work and family values. Here is a mother, a wife and a legendary Olympian, multiple World Champion who now holds two brand new world records and is a wife and mother to boot,” noted President Ruto.

    He lauded the “explosive” sprints African Champion Ferdinand Omanyala and the “fast rising” 800M King and Queen, teenage Emmanuel Wanyonyi and Mary Moraa for making Kenya proud, and encouraged them to keep up their pursuit of a golden future.

    Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Sports CS Ababu Namwamba, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja and Webuye West MP Dan Wanyama were present.

    Gachagua asked the sportsmen to be disciplined and remain focussed.

    “We must monetise sports so that this sector can exert its full potential to drive the growth of our economy,” noted the Deputy President.

     

  • IGAD expands countries to resolve issues in Sudan

    IGAD expands countries to resolve issues in Sudan

    Kenya has welcomed the expansion of the IGAD Troika on Sudan.

    In the new formation that includes Ethiopia and Somalia, Kenya will now be the Chair of the IGAD Quartet on resolving the crisis in Sudan.

    South Sudan is also a member.

    “Kenya commits to meet the two Sudan generals face to face to find a lasting solution to the crisis,” said President William Ruto.

    He was addressing the media on Monday in Djibouti during the 14th Ordinary meeting of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Assembly of Heads of State and Government.

    In the Session, Djibouti was picked as the new IGAD Chair to be deputised by South Sudan.

    Present were presidents Ismail Omar Guelleh (Djibouti), Salva Kiir (South Sudan), Hassan Mohamud (Somalia) and Prime Minister of Ethiopia Abiy Ali.

    Deputy President of the Transitional Sovereignty Council of the Republic of Sudan and Representative of the Chairperson of the IGAD Assembly of Heads of State and Government Malik Akar, Executive Secretary of IGAD Workneh Gebeyehu and African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki were also there.

    President Ruto said a humanitarian corridor will be established in a fortnight to facilitate the delivery of aid.

    “In the next three weeks, we will begin the process of an inclusive national dialogue,” he explained.

    The Head of State told the meeting that this will give the people of Sudan the right forum to discuss in their diversity the issues and future political dispensation of their country.

  • DP Gachagua demands results in fight against illicit brew

    DP Gachagua demands results in fight against illicit brew

    Security officers in Eastern Region have 10 days to show results of a crackdown against illicit brew and substance abuse.

    Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua says police officers and National Government Administration Officers must work and deliver results.

    While ordering an immediate crackdown, the Deputy President said by June 22, 2023, a review meeting will be held to examine the progress made adding that this will help identify gaps and possible enhancement areas for success.

    “Within 10 days, the over 2,800 illegal establishments of alcohol in the region must be brought down and owners prosecuted. A decision has been made that alcohol and drugs are threats to our nation. After that meeting, we will allow those who could have not done much to go home and rest,” he said during a stakeholders forum in Chuka, Tharaka Nithi County held to seeks ways of ending illicit brew and substance abuse.

    He addressed fears raised by the officers who said they face threats in their work assuring them that the government will protect them from all forms of threats and intimidation in their war against illegal alcohol and substance abuse.

    “We have held such meetings in Nyeri, Nakuru and today here in Chuka. We are headed to Coast and Western Regions. That tells you of the Government’s commitment to this matter. In this fight, you are more than protected. There will be no calls from anybody. President William Ruto will not call you, neither, Professor Kithure Kindiki (Interior Cabinet Secretary) nor Inspector General of Police Japheth Koome. I won’t call you. Ignore all other calls. If anyone threatened you, find a way of reaching out to us,” he said.

    Gachagua said as a result of the operation, the officers may be sued.

    “We will offer you a State lawyer to defend you in court if you are prosecuted. But you must work within the law.”

    He challenged them to acquaint themselves with the Constitution, the Penal Code and other legal frameworks to ensure their operations are protected.

    “Next week, I will meet the  Judiciary, Independent commissions and other independent institutions  to table your challenges on prosecution. We know Chief Justice Martha Koome will listen because she is a mother. We will get results.”

    The Deputy President said the government is aware that some police officers are into drugs and alcohol and that the Government is working to rehabilitate them.

    He asked Members of Parliament to also invest in improving the work environment of police stations to improve the life of the officers for better service delivery.

  • Jenga Hustle Mashinani, Jenga Kenya initiative wraps up weeklong exhibition

    Jenga Hustle Mashinani, Jenga Kenya initiative wraps up weeklong exhibition

    The Social Services Sub-sector wrapped up a week-long exhibition along the Aga Khan Walk in Kenya’s capital Nairobi.

    The aim of the event was to give equal opportunities to all in an event dubbed “JENGA HUSTLE MASHINANI, JENGA KENYA”

    The event brought together exhibitors from around the city to showcase their products, which are produced locally by various self-help groups.

    George Mutiso, Chief Officer of Social Services said Nairobi City County Government continues to provide youth, women, and all Nairobi residents opportunities to earn honest and sustainable livelihoods.

    “The section focuses on the socioeconomic empowerment of the community by working with self-help groups across Nairobi County. As a county government, our mandate is to ensure we provide a level playing field to Nairobians and empower small traders and manufacturers at the grass root level, which is in line with Governor Johnson Sakaja’s manifesto of providing Hope and opportunities for all.

    Mutiso says Nairobi and the country’s youth in general have a huge potential and the county government is keen to expand their opportunities for them to realize their dreams.

    “We want to ensure our youth stay away from drugs and crime. Under Governor Sakaja’s leadership, we want to ensure we put in place structures that empower Nairobi youth. Remember Nairobi is the business hub for Africa. We want our manufacturers in the informal sector to have a platform to export their products to the East African Community and the world as a whole. You never know until you try,” he said

    The section plans to do more such events to expose the talents, products, and initiatives of youth and women in Nairobi. We plan to hold such events every month going forward.

  • Ūnduire Witū: Ūrathi ūgo, ūragūri, mwano, mbūgū ona ago aa gwīthokia

    Ūnduire Witū: Ūrathi ūgo, ūragūri, mwano, mbūgū ona ago aa gwīthokia

    Ūgīterebwo nī mūtabania Martin Ndungu wa Kamande Wīna kīūria kīa ūndūire? Ūrīa tūcokerio na tūtonywo ndūgīra nī mūtonyi witū Awa Chief Michael Kanyonga wa Mūkono.

    Part 1

    Part 2

  • Embakasi Central wins inaugural Nairobi County street soccer extravaganza

    Embakasi Central wins inaugural Nairobi County street soccer extravaganza

    Embakasi Central football team emerged the winners of this year’s five aside inaugural street soccer competition sponsored by Nairobi City County Governments’ Sports sector, Kamukunji finished runners up and Dagoretti finished third.

    The event that took place outside City Hall way was Inspired by the contemporary artistic form of street football which was created in the mid 90’s on the squares of Amsterdam and Rotterdam, the aim being to promote social inclusion and personal change for participants by providing support and promoting participation, inclusiveness, commitment and support.

    Deputy Governor Njoroge Muchiri who graced the event said the County of Nairobi is focused on solutions that fix the causes of homelessness domestic and family violence, social isolation, and drug and alcohol abuse.

    “This program will use football as a catalyst for transforming lives and providing participants with a sense of purpose and belonging. Our youth have no choice but to reform and leave a dignified and sustainable way of life. Today we will reward both losers and the winners just to encourage them to change their ways. Each Sub-county team will get a token for participation,” said Muchiri

    The County Executive Committee Member for Talent Skill Development and Care Mr. Brian Mulama Community noted that the Street Soccer Programme is not new though it was the First in Nairobi and in Kenya and that the County intends to use the power of sport to promote social inclusion and personal change for homeless, marginalized and disadvantaged in our society.

    “Our theme this year “ Say no Drug Abuse” is intentional to help our youth stop the vice and reform we want to encourage our youth,  it is possible to change and earn a decent and sustainable life in sports by monetizing it, this will help promote lives and create healthier communities across our 17 sub-counties. We intend to engage more teams and also include other activities in the Street Soccer program,” said Mulama

    Chief Officer Oscar Igaida, said “Social benefits to the community In addition to the direct impact on individual participants, Street Soccer is a cost-effective social change programme. People who in many cases have given up on counseling and traditional support systems and services are helped in an efficient way. The person is put at the centre of the solution and the programme provides them with the support and tools necessary to make positive changes to their lives. This is our intention and our long-term dream in the sports sector,”

    Present during the inaugural event were County Executive for Health and Wellness Dr. Nyalita, Boroughs Sub County Administration and Personnel Ibrahim Auma,  County Chief Officers Tiras Njoroge Smart Nairobi, George Mutiso Social Services, Godfrey Akumali Market Trade and Cooperatives, Members of County Assembly and Nairobi liquor Board among others.

  • The Book Café: Former IEBC Chairman Ahmed Isaack Hassan on his memoir

    The Book Café: Former IEBC Chairman Ahmed Isaack Hassan on his memoir

    KBC English Service’s Khainga O’okwemba sits with former IEBC Chairman Ahmed Isaack Hassan to discuss his recently published memoir “Referee of a dirty ugly game: in the theatre of Kenya’s elections – an insider’s account.” they discuss the challenges of holding the first elections under the 2010 Constitution, the 2013 elections, the chicken gate scandal, the tension in the iIEBC. is IEBC a minefield?

  • CMG holds first “Twinkle Star Project” animation tour in Nairobi, Kenya

    CMG holds first “Twinkle Star Project” animation tour in Nairobi, Kenya

    China Media Group’s (CMG) “Twinkle Star Project” first animation tour after its launch was held on June 10, at the Village Market in Kenya’s capital, Nairobi.

    The event was attended by students from Mcedo Beijing School and the China-Kenya cultural center. During the event, CMG screened a number of Chinese cartoons to enable Kenyan students to learn more about the Chinese culture.

    Fredrick Sango, a teacher from Mcedo Beijing School accompanied his students for the screening today and he says this initiative will deepen their knowledge on China-Kenya relationship.

    “Learners were very excited because they saw it as an opportunity to know more about China, and to be able to interact with these children”, Sango said.

    Learners also engaged in activities that included a drawing competition. The competition is aimed at enabling both the Kenya and Chinese students to learn about each other’s culture.

    “I look forward to some of my students winning and in the long run I hope Mandarin can be taught in Mcedo Beijing school,” Sango said during an interview with CGTN.

    Learners during the drawing competition at the CMG animation tour. PHOTO/CGTN Africa

    The “Twinkle Star” animation exhibition tour is a major media event launched by China Media Group (CMG) in Nairobi on May 31. It is scheduled to run from June through December, during which caravans equipped with professional equipment will reach rural schools in Kenya and screen Chinese animation for local children.

    CMG animation Tour. PHOTO/CGTN Africa

    Sino-Kenya relations marks their 60th year anniversary and the “Twinkle Star Project” seeks to promote cultural exchanges and integration between the Chinese and Kenyan people.

    SOURCE: CGTN Africa

  • Honduras opens embassy in China

    Honduras opens embassy in China

    Honduras opened its first embassy in China on Sunday, two months after establishing diplomatic ties.

    Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang and his Honduran counterpart Eduardo Enrique Reina attended the inauguration ceremony.

    Qin said establishing China-Honduras diplomatic relations based on the one-China principle over two months ago realized the long-cherished wish of the two peoples and opened a new era of China-Honduras relations. He added that both sides have resolutely fulfilled their commitment to bringing bilateral ties to a fast track in the past two months.

    The rapid development of China-Honduras relations proves that standing up for the one-China principle is the right thing to do, is overwhelmingly supported by the international community and represents the prevailing trend of the world, he said.

    Noting that Honduran President Xiomara Castro’s ongoing visit to China is a milestone, he said the historic meeting between Chinese and Honduran leaders will chart the course for further growth of bilateral relations.

    China is willing to work with Honduras to deepen cooperation in various fields based on mutual respect, equality, mutual benefit and common development and make the China-Honduras relationship a new shining example of friendly cooperation among countries with different national conditions and systems.

    Reina said it is significant that the embassy’s opening ceremony is held during President Castro’s state visit to China.

    He noted that the establishment of diplomatic ties opens a new era in Honduras’ relations with the world and opens the way for it to become a prosperous and great country.

    He added that Honduras will firmly adhere to the one-China principle and believes China-Honduras ties will continue to strengthen to bear fruit for the benefit of both peoples.

    SOUCE:CGTN