Category Archives: Politics & Govt

President Kenyatta Urges Asia To Use Kenya As Gateway To Africa’s Vast Market

President Uhuru Kenyatta today called on Asian economies to use Kenya as a gateway to Africa’s market of over 1.2 billion people that is worth more than US$ 29 trillion.
President Kenyatta said Kenya is the best entry point for Asian businesses that want to trade in Africa with the coming into force of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCTA).

“I invite you to use Kenya as a gateway to the African continent. It is not only one of the top-ten fastest growing economies in Africa but is also one of the most pro-business Nations on the continent,” said President Kenyatta today.
The President made the statement when he delivered the keynote address at the Singapore Summit 2019 on Saturday morning.

The Singapore Summit, started in 2012, is one of the foremost events that brings together business and thought leaders from Asia and around the world to discuss global trends in business, finance and geopolitics.
Addressing the business leaders gathered at the Shangri-La Hotel in Singapore, President Kenyatta said Kenya is a leader in pro-business reforms.
He said the country has scored huge improvements in the World Bank’s Ease-of-Doing-Business index, jumping 107 places since 2012 to its present position of number 61 globally and 3rd in Africa.

The President said Kenya is also the leading country in Sub-Saharan Africa in terms of ICT and technology-penetration, FinTech and Financial Inclusion.
Kenya’s mobile phone subscriptions currently stands at 95 percent of its population of more than 45 Million.

The country has also leveraged on its strength in ICT and mobile cellular subscription to become the global leader in mobile money and mobile banking.
“Kenya’s world-famous M-Pesa mobile money platform has promoted financial inclusion in our country and provided a template for reaching conventionally-unbanked populations across the region,” said the President.

He urged Asian investors to seek partnerships to access the vibrant Kenyan market and the wider continental market.
The President suggested several crucial steps to build strong foundation for the partnership between Singapore and Kenya as well as between the Asian and African continents.
He said Kenya and Singapore should strengthen cooperation in building and expansion of transport, communication, energy, housing, and ICT infrastructure in Kenya;
The second suggestion by the President was facilitation of mergers or collaborative arrangements between Asian companies and Kenyan companies; and promotion of linkages between Micro, Small, and Medium-Size Enterprises (MSMEs), on both sides of the Indian Ocean.

President Kenyatta said there should be collaboration between Asia and Africa in cultural exchanges, capacity building and information sharing as the foundations for forging a new path of productivity and commerce.
After delivering his keynote address, President Kenyatta joined the chairman of the summit Mr Ho Kwan Ping for a panel discussion on Kenya’s role in promoting closer partnership between Africa and Asia.

The President said Kenya’s skilled human capital, thriving service industry, its leading ICT sector and its strategic location make the country the right gateway into the African continent.
He said Kenya and Singapore are exploring the modalities for direct flights between the two countries. He said like Singapore, Kenya is a hub for the whole of Africa and is connected to all parts of the continent and Europe as well as America.

President Kenyatta’s visit to Singapore builds on the successful Afro-Asia Fintech Festival 2019, which was co-hosted by Kenya and Singapore in Nairobi in July 2019.
The President was accompanied by Central Bank Governor Dr Patrick Njoroge, Housing Principal Secretary Charles Hinga and Amb Johnson Weru, the Director Economic Affairs and Commercial Diplomacy Directorate at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Current salaries, benefits and new demands by Kenyan MPs

The Kenyan Legislators are among the best paid Law makers in the world. But, still the Kenyan Law Makers are currently demanding for more perks and benefits.

CURRENT BENEFITS TO MPs

Currently, the Kenyan, Members of Parliament, MPs, are entitled to, among others, :

  • A salary of up to KShs. 1.2 Million per month.
  • A Kshs. 20 Million Mortgage facility at an interest rate of 3% per Year; repayable in 5 years.
  • Mileage allowance to cater for transport costs to the Constituency.
  • A car grant of Kshs. 7 million.
  • A family medical Insurance Scheme covering:
    • Inpatient costs up to Kshs. 10 million.
    • Out patient cost up to Kshs. 300,000
    • Maternity costs up to Kshs. 150,000
    • Dental care of up to Kshs. 75,000
NEW DEMANDS BY MPs
  • An expanded medical cover to include more than one wife and the extended family.
  • Increased travel allowances.
  • Expanded constituency outreach programme; on top the current National  Government’s Constituency Development Fund, CDF.
  • A rent free government house or greatly enhanced monthly house allowance.
  • Allocation of government vehicles.
  • Increased allowances while on foreign and internal trips.
  • Kshs. 5,000 allowance for every sitting.

Cartoon (Courtesy)- The ever unsatisfied MPs
Cartoon (Courtesy)- The ever unsatisfied MPs

Composition of the twelve Parliamentary Service Commission:

The Commission consists of the Speaker of the National Assembly, as the Chairman, seven Members appointed by Parliament and one Woman and one Man appointed by Parliament from persons who are experienced in Public affairs but are not Members of Parliament. The Clerk of the Senate is the Secretary to the Commission.

  1. The Hon. Adan Keynan, M.P. – Member
  2. The Hon. Benson Momanyi, M.P. – Member
  3. The Hon. George Khaniri, M.P. – Member
  4. The Hon. Aisha Jumwa, M.P. – Member
  5. The Hon. Aaron Cheruiyot, M.P – Member
  6. The Hon Dr. Lorna Mumelo,- Member
  7. Mr J. M. Nyegenye – Clerk of the Senate Secretary to PSC (Parliamentary Service Commission)

Dr Amina Mohammed moved from Education Ministry; This is her response

Education Cabinet Secretary Amina Mohammed was today moved to the Ministry of Sports, Arts and Culture following President Uhuru Kenyatta’s executive order. Dr Amina will now be replaced by the current chair to the Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC), Dr George Magoha; who has been named the Education Cabinet Secretary-designate, pending his vetting and approval by the National Assembly.

Dr Amina replaces Rashid Echesa in the Sports docket following his sacking in a mini reshuffle effected by President Uhuru Kenyatta Friday morning. In the reshuffles and sackings spelt out in Executive Order 3 of 2019, President Kenyatta said Echesa’s appointment had been revoked under Article 152 (5) of the Constitution.

Dr Amina who has been under heightened criticism from the public, lately, had this to say following the reshuffle;

“It is with humility and high honour that I thank His Excellency Uhuru Kenyatta for according me the opportunity to serve as CS for Foreign Affairs, CS for Education Ministry and now as CS for Ministry of Sports.

I congratulate my colleague in the sector the Kenya National Examinations Chairman Prof. George Magoha on his nomination to the Ministry of Education. I thank all the sector players and development partners for their tremendous support throughout my headship at the Ministry.


Together, we made huge strides in deepening the sector’s reform Agenda. We delivered credible 2018 national examinations, successful CBC roll-out, near 100% transition from primary to secondary (93% and rising) progressive TVET and University reforms, among others.”

Below is an extract from President Uhuru’s Executive order;

A. MINISTRIES

  1. Re- Assignments

“In accordance with Article 152(5) of the Constitution, the following Cabinet
Secretaries are re-assigned as stated:
i. Amb. Amina C. Mohamed, EGH Ministry of Sports, Culture and
Heritage.

2. Nominations
In accordance with Article 152 (2) of the Constitution, the following persons are nominated for appointment as Cabinet Secretaries as stated:
ii. Prof. George A.O. Magoha Ministry of Education

3. Vacation of Appointment
In accordance with Article 152(5) of the Constitution, as read together with Article 152(1)(d) of the Constitution, the appointment of MR. RASHID ECHESA MOHAMED, as a Cabinet Secretary has been vacated.

B. STATE DEPARTMENTS

  1. Re- Assignments

In accordance with Article 155 (4) of the Constitution, the following Principal Secretaries are re- assigned as stated:

  1. Ms. Susan N. Mochache, CBS- Ministry of Health
  2. Mr. Ali Noor Ismail, CBS- State Department of Cooperatives
  3. Dr Ibrahim M. Mohammed, CBS- State Department of Environment and Forestry
  4. Eng. Peter Kiplagat Tum, OGW- State Department of Labour
  5. Dr Margret Mwakima, CBS- State Department of East African Community Affairs (EAC)
  6. Dr Susan Koech- State Department of Wildlife

2. Vacation of Appointment;

In accordance with Article 155 of the Constitution, the appointment of MRS. FATUMA HIRSI, as a Principal Secretary has been vacated.”

READ ALSO;

Cabinet Reshuffle- Why Education CS, Dr Amina, may be shown the door; if the reshuffle is done.
This man Matiang’i! A preview of his successful & unsuccessful policies, reforms, at the Education docket

Farmers get 300,000 bags of cheap fertilizers from Government

The National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) has distributed 307,200 bags of 50 kilograms each out of the 426,000 bags of government-subsidized DAP planting fertiliser through its depots for sale to registered farmers in various parts of the country for the short rains.

NCPB Managing Director (MD) Joseph Kimote said that the subsidised DAP fertiliser which is retailing at Sh 3,500 per 50 kg bag is part of the total 1.4 million bags of assorted varieties of fertilisers for the 2022/2023 short rains season.

“By distributing the fertiliser with support from the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives, the board is implementing the Presidential directive on the provision of subsidised planting fertiliser to farmers for the short rains season so as to boost food security. The programme was publicly launched by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on 22nd September 2022,” said Kimote.

He explained that while the distribution of DAP planting fertiliser is ongoing, plans are underway to avail CAN/Urea top-dressing fertilisers and Agricultural Lime to farmers.

“In order to infuse inclusivity into the supply and distribution of subsidised fertiliser, the Board has invited bids from manufacturers and distributors of fertilisers to supply both soil and crop specific fertiliser blends for planting and topdressing. These fertilisers will also be distributed under the subsidy programme,” said Kimote.

He highlighted that the crop-specific fertiliser blends will also benefit registered tea and coffee farmers who are not covered under the KTDA and the New KPCU distribution frameworks respectively.

According to Kimote, the board is working closely with the Council of Governors (CoG) to enhance distribution of the subsidised fertiliser by availing it closer to farmers at the grassroots through the counties’ outlets.

“In this regard, the board will open county government-supported satellite-selling centres nearer to farmers for ease of access,” said Kimote.

He continued: “As the CoG works to ensure efficiency in the registration of farmers, NCPB in consultation with local leadership is sensitizing farmers on the ongoing subsidised fertiliser distribution. Further, the board is constantly interacting with farmers and other members of the public through social media and vernacular radio station engagements to enhance the uptake of the subsidised fertiliser. We, therefore, urge farmers to register with their respective ward Agricultural Officers so that they can benefit from the GOK subsidised fertiliser.”

Kimote said that the CoG and their respective county administrators are critical partners in oversighting the subsidised fertiliser distribution exercise while the National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) on their part, are monitoring the exercise and providing overall security for the programme.

NYS gets new Director General- Transform NYS, President Kenyatta Challenges New Director General

President Uhuru Kenyatta has challenged the new National Youth Service (NYS) Director General Matilda Pamela Aleyo Sakwa to transform the agency into an training institution that effectively delivers on its mandate.
The President told Ms Sakwa to ensure that NYS reclaims its position in national development by equipping the youth with adequate skills and expertise to enable them contribute to nation building.

The Head of State spoke today at State House, Nairobi when he witnessed the swearing in of Ms Sakwa as the the new NYS Director General.

The President congratulated Ms Sakwa and expressed confidence that she has what it takes to successfully lead NYS and enable it to offer appropriate training, mentoring, encouraging and giving hope to young Kenyans.

“You are a person with experience in management of public resources and also in public service and administration. I have confidence that you will deliver not only to the Government but also to the people of Kenya.
“You have the capacity to take this organization to the next level,” the President told Ms Sakwa.
As part of her swearing in, the new Director General took oath of office, and signed the General Integrity Code and the Accountability Pledge committing herself to discharge her duties according to the law without fear or favour.

The President observed that NYS has in the past failed to deliver on its mandate due to challenges of integrity and weak leadership, and tasked Ms Sakwa to rebuild the trust, confidence and faith of Kenyans in the institution.
“I have never failed to believe in this organization as an instrument of transformation of our Republic and of our young people,” the President said as he assured the new Director General of his support.

He said the ongoing reforms at NYS including the set up of the management council led by Lt. Gen (Rtd) Njuki Mwaniki are aimed at strengthening the institution to make it more accountable and transparent.

Present at the ceremony were Public Service CS Prof Margaret Kobia, State House Chief of Staff Nzioka Waita and NYS Council Chairman Lt. Gen (Rtd) Njuki Mwaniki among others.

ECDE Teachers at Nyamira County go without pay for 8 months!

Shocking details have emerged on how Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE) teachers employed by the Nyamira county Government have gone without pay since 1st January, 2018. The three hundred and fifty three ECDE teachers who were recruited and reported to duty on 1st January, 2018, are yet to receive a penny of their remuneration to date. “The county Assembly Sectoral Committee on Education and Youth Empowerment brought to my attention the saddening fact that three hundred and fifty three (353) ECDE teachers who were recruited and reported to duty on 1st January, 2018, were yet to receive a penny of their remuneration up to date”, Says the Nyamira County Government Speaker, the Hon. Moffat Teya,  in a press statement released today.

“This is despite the fact that the County Service Board confirmed that the teachers were recruited procedurally  and therefore deserve communserate benefits”. Adds Nyamoko. The speaker regrets that the teachers are parents, husbands, wives, brothers and sisters who have numerous financial responsibilities to shoulder.

In what is seen as a sign of hope to the teachers, the County Assembly has made deliberate efforts to resolve the issue and has come up with the following recommendations:

  • That all outstanding arrears dating back to 1st January, 2018, for the ECDE teachers recruited under phase three be paid at once by 30th September, 2018. The county Executive to communicate on 1st October, 2018, to confirm this payment.
  • That the County Public Service Board, having confirmed that the teachers were employed procedurally, to explain what happened to the budget meant for payment of these teachers for the stated period. Failure to do this, the Board should be disbanded.
  • That no member of the County Executive Committee should receive September pay if the ECDE teachers have not been paid.

These new developments come after the Nurses working under the Nyamira County Government staged a protracted strike that paralyzed operations at the health facilities for many months. The County Government is said to be hit by a financial crunch as employees go for many months without pay.

 

 

What President Kenyatta said during the 2019 Jamhuri Day Celebrations

If you missed President Uhuru Kenyatta’s speech during the 2019 Jamhuri Day celebrations, here is what the President said in his address;

‘Distinguished Guests,

My Fellow Kenyans,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Happy Jamhuri Day!

We gather here today to celebrate Fifty-Six Years, since that glorious day when the flag of our Republic was hoisted for the very first time.

Today, we are honoured to have with us the Prime Minister of Barbados, the Rt. Hon. Mia Mottley, please join me in welcoming her to Nairobi.  Rt Hon. Prime Minister, your acceptance to join us to celebrate our Jamhuri is a clear indication of your commitment to the promotion of Pan-Africanism and the Bridges that unite the Caribbean and the continent of Africa in friendship, solidarity and fraternity.

Fellow Kenyans,

On the 12th Day of December, 1963; the People of Kenya witnessed the birth of an Independent State; a culmination of decades of the Struggle for Independence. That, indeed, was an astounding feat, achieved through a shared quest to liberate our homeland; we fought hard for it; we wrestled it out of the unwilling hands of a mighty world power; we stood against what seemed insurmountable odds but nevertheless prevailed.

And so today, as we celebrate our sovereignty, we honour those who gave their lives so that we could be free; those who fought in the forests, valleys, mountain-tops and plains; those who stood their ground in the LEGCO and refused to be compromised with the promises of a half-baked and empty Independence; those who guarded the young Kenya against adversaries; and those in modern times, who stand at borders, in our streets, in public offices, at home and abroad; defending and advancing our sovereignty and national interests.

As a Nation, we shall remain grateful to our independence-era heroes for delivering a free Kenya and restoring our ability to govern ourselves and determine our own destiny.  Today, we are called upon to honour their commitment and sacrifice by being true to the ideals that they lived and died for, most especially the ideal of “One Kenya, United, Strong and Prosperous; with Freedom and Justice for All”.

Fellow Kenyans,

At independence, Kenya was a Nation of hope and potential.  Today, we are the gatekeepers of our liberty, our Nation is a Beacon of Freedom, a Lighthouse that continues to shine the way for other African nations. The ideals of Freedom, Democracy and Prosperity that we have built over these Fifty-Six Years, are helping in shaping our region and beyond.

My Fellow Kenyans,

At the dawn of the Republic, we stood at about 8.9 million Kenyans; today we are a Nation of 47 million strong. We, the People, remain Kenya’s greatest strength and resource.

Our Unity amid Diversity, our National and Social Values, our status as a Regional Hub, Cultural Melting Pot, our Heritage and Splendor, our unmatched reputation for being a Country that provides shelter and safe-harbour for those fleeing turmoil in their Home Countries; these ideals of our Founding Fathers, are alive and well in today’s Kenya.

The Kenya of today is the River that flows from the Source of Greatness.  This Greatness is embodied in the spirit of those who went before us.  That Kenya would become a country devoid of poverty, ignorance and disease.

Inspired by the ideals of the independence generation and empowered by the resolve to always be better, just and progressive, we are making every endeavour to return the River to its course.

We are returning the River to its course by turning every hurdle into a stepping stone, every challenge into an opportunity and every obstacle into a bridge for a better future for all.

In the Fifty-Six years since we attained Independence, Kenya continues to grow by leaps and bounds, growing from strength to strength, buoyed by a devolved structure of governance that has accelerated development across the Republic.

From Shimoni to Moyale, Embu to Bungoma, Siaya to Kiambu, Eldoret to Voi, Mandera to Kisii, Wajir to Narok; we have found shared destiny in our diversity.

Brick-by-brick, generation-by-generation and administration-by-administration, we are building on years of steady progress, to achieve national renewal and rebuild the bonds of brotherhood among our peoples, by weaving a new and stronger fabric of patriotism and nationhood.  With this national endeavour, the wealth, security, democracy and vitality of our Republic, will set us head-and-shoulders above our peers.

We are returning the river to its course by fostering national unity and inclusiveness, through building bridges of unity towards a better Kenya for all.   Make no mistake, in 2019, Kenya has chosen to consign to the dustbin of history partisan divides and politics that is centred on individual interest at the expense of common good.

In 2019, we have anchored our dreams and aspirations on a unity that resonates with that, which existed in the independence-era generation.  Kenyans today must now unite to drive the remnants of poverty, disease, illiteracy, inequality, division and conflict from our Nation.  This monumental task towards sustainable development, can only be achieved if we remain united, focused and driven by the desire to always put our country-first. Kenya Kwanza.

My Fellow Kenyans,

At independence, Kenyans inherited a country stripped bare by a colonizing-power whose only intention was to extract.  We inherited a country beset by poverty, illiteracy, poor health and chronic under-investment in infrastructure and social amenities.  We were divided along ethnic and religious differences.

We were a colonial relic, whose identifying marks were inequality, injustice, poverty, exploitation and oppression.  Fifty-Six years later, we can look back with pride at the important milestones we have achieved and the tremendous steps we have taken and are taking to right the course of the River.

By way of returning the River to its course, my Administration is vigorously implementing the Kenya Economic Blue Print – Vision 2030, whose current phase – the Third Medium Term Plan, is prioritized as the Big-Four Agenda.  This Agenda focuses on: “a decent roof over many more heads at affordable cost; affordable healthcare for all; food and nutrition security for all Kenyans, job creation and economic growth through manufacturing.

The Big Four Agenda is crafted to accelerate the realization of the overriding objective of the Vision 2030, which is: to transform Kenya into a newly industrializing, middle-income country providing a higher quality of life to all its citizens by 2030 – in a clean and secure environment.”

Fellow Kenyans,

Our most valuable asset is our human resource. But for this resource to contribute effectively to our development agenda, its health is paramount.  It goes without saying, a sickly society cannot expect to realize its development potential to the full.  This is what informed my Administration in identifying “Universal Healthcare” as one of the pillars of the “Big Four” Agenda.

I am pleased to report that we have successfully rolled out the pilot phase of this programme in the counties of Nyeri, Kisumu, Isiolo and Machakos.  To-date, the programme has witnessed enhanced access to essential health services, with an average of 39% reported in the pilot counties.

Lessons from the pilot affirm that robust primary healthcare system is the right vehicle to secure sustainable Universal Health Coverage.

In this regard, we have invested quality time to prepare for the full rollout of this programme by the beginning of 2020, to cover the remaining 43 counties.  To this end, I urge county governments and the Ministry of Health to conclude and sign the Intergovernmental Partnership Agreement by the end of January 2020.

Fellow Kenyans,

We have begun the journey to fulfill our pledge to you on the Affordable Housing Programme. Just last week, I commissioned the first phase of the project by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) that will deliver 100,000 units across the country.

The Affordable Housing Programme will continue to deepen and accelerate access to housing far beyond our immediate target date of 2022, of building 500,000 housing units, and set Kenya on an extraordinary path as Africa’s first country, to substantively address housing and social amenities challenges.

Fellow Kenyans,

The Housing Fund is one of the entities through which the delivery of the “Affordable Housing Programme”, shall be supported.

The creation of the Housing Fund was informed by the need to bridge the gap between the have and the have nots, by creating a framework through which, the traditionally unbanked can access financing towards home-ownership.

Fellow Kenyans,

You all know, the implementation of the Housing Fund Levy as a mandatory contribution, for both employees and employers, has at every turn, been fraught with an avalanche of legal hurdles and obstacles.  But we need to soldier the nobility of this programme.

In this regard, and to ensure that the implementation of the programme is not derailed any further, I hereby direct and order that The National Treasury, the Ministry responsible for Housing moves to Parliament, a revision to the legal requirement in respect to the Housing Fund Levy, to make the contribution voluntary, with immediate effect.

Fellow Kenyans,

A nation that feeds itself, – just like a family that feeds itself, – stays healthy, secure, united and indeed, stable.  We are on course to weed out the fragments of hunger in society and guarantee food and nutrition security for all. This is supported by increased agricultural production of our major staple foods.

To enhance earnings of our farmers, we are promoting agriculture through structured trading by negotiating market access for our produce in international markets, and restructuring the Kenya National Trading Corporation to better receive and manage farm produce.  We continue to promote our produce abroad to deepen markets and further explore marine and aquaculture resources, in consideration of the new global blue economy model.

With respect to our cash crops, we are making every effort to revitalize and restore their contribution to our national life; and assure the future of coffee and tea in Kenya. My Administration will continue to support tea farmers to enhance diversification of tea varieties; whilst also restructuring the coffee value chain to stimulate productivity and value addition.  We recognize tea and coffee have been prime export products for Kenya since independence.

The increase in cotton production is another key development within the agricultural sector.  The revival of Rivatex and other textile factories, is providing a ready local market for our cotton produce.

The Manufacturing pillar of the Big Four continues to gain momentum as we undertake bold steps, in answer to my pledge to you.

We have begun the journey to lay an additional brick to the realization of our commitment to create more opportunities for our people.  Foreign direct investments in industry are soaring and the number of Kenyans gainfully engaged in the sector continues to grow.  In this context, I am happy to report we will be, in the coming week launching the ground-breaking in the Naivasha Industrial Park, a major investment by a foreign investor in partnership with a local investor.

Fellow Kenyans,

I note with satisfaction that the safeguards we have put in place to protect local industry and guard against dumping, are bearing fruits.  In that regard and to further cement these gains, I urge Kenyans to buy locally made products in support of the “Buy Kenya, Build Kenya Initiative”, as it creates employment and incomes to fellow Kenyans.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

We are returning the River to its course by making Kenya secure and an attractive destination for investments.  I am pleased to acknowledge that Kenya’s ranking in the World Bank’s Ease-of-Doing-Business Index, improved once again this year, to position 56 among 190 economies.

Since I assumed office, we have improved by 80 positions globally and remain on course towards becoming the top 50 countries next year, as we build upon that momentum to achieve top 25-Status by the middle of the next decade.

Fellow Kenyans,

We should be proud of our achievements.  Evidently, no other country has seen such a sustained and large improvement in ease of doing business over the same period.

This positive change has been most felt by our Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises; who have benefited from our culture of being an open and listening Government that is attuned to the needs of enterprises.

The remarkable progress in the ease of doing business has been due to our reforms in the processes of establishing businesses, issuing construction permits, acquiring electricity, as well as the ease in accessing credit, paying taxes and trading across borders.

We have also increased investment in the energy sector, embraced ICT, and the sustained war against corruption. The institutionalization of these reforms will continue to cement and secure Nairobi’s place as a diplomatic hub and Kenya as a steadfast economic powerhouse in Eastern and Central Africa.

Fellow Kenyans,

There is no doubt the pace at which the economy is growing is not fast enough, to keep pace and to absorb all the graduates released to the job market every year.

To accelerate economic transformation, my Administration is focused on other salient factors that are holding back the potential of our enterprises; particularly with regard to taxes and tax administration, reduction or where possible elimination of fees or charges levied by Government Agencies as well as the Private Sector, reduction of bureaucracy and the simplification of processes in trade, access to credit and streamlining consumer protection assurance.

In order to address some of these challenges, I order and direct as follows:

That The National Treasury and the Kenya Revenue Authority, review our tax structures, especially in relation to small businesses, so as to reduce the tax burden while fostering tax-compliance; and

As a way of reducing the compliance burden on employers, all employer contributions/deductions of NSSF, NHIF, PAYE and NITA be made through a unified payroll return submitted to the Kenya Revenue Authority.

In recognition of the fact that up to 40% of the value of commercial disputes for claims under Kenya Shillings one million are taken up by court fees and advocates charges, thereby making the cost of recovery prohibitively high;

I therefore direct The National Treasury and the Office of the Attorney-General to engage with the Judiciary and formulate a framework that will anchor the waiver of court fees for commercial disputes of less than one million shillings, effective 1st March, 2020, and cause amendments to the Advocates Remuneration Order to make advocates charges in such court cases, more accessible to Kenyans.

Fellow Kenyans,

The repeal of the law capping bank lending interest rates, introduction of ground-breaking financial products such as STAWI Programme, which is geared towards providing affordable credit to SMEs, has already positively impacted hundreds of business by availing low-cost financing, despite only having been launched  recently.

 

In the coming months, my Administration will introduce other products such as Stawisha SME Mashinani and other administrative measures geared towards SMEs to enable them to play their rightful role in our economic transformation agenda.

 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

 

Millions of Kenyans woke up this morning in a Nation that has one of the highest rates of electricity connection in the developing world.

 

The Last-Mile Connectivity Initiative has turned electricity connection from a luxurious dream unattainable in most Kenyan homes to an ordinary facet of life, now enjoyed by over 75% of all Kenyan homesteads.

Our children no longer strain their eyes reading under the light of candles nor do they choke with fumes from paraffin lamps.

The Vision of Fathers and Mothers in villages across Kenya, is now powered as those in our towns and cities; affording them equal opportunity to actively participate in national development.  Indeed, the River is well on its course.

We are returning the River to its course through sustained investments in education. Where once education was the preserve of the elite, we now pride ourselves as a nation with one of the highest levels of literacy among our peer-nations.  In Africa, Kenya boasts the highest rate of Primary-to-Secondary School Transition, now at 100%.  When our learners sit down to acquire knowledge and discover their full potential, they do so guided by a new world-class Competence-Based-Curriculum that extensively utilizes digital learning platforms fit for the learning practices and demands of the 21st Century.

 

Our education system has also witnessed a rapid expansion of tertiary education; both in terms of access and scope. Our universities, polytechnics and vocational training institutions ensure that every Kenyan has an opportunity to further their knowledge and expertise; fuelling livelihoods and enabling passions and dreams.  In the medical field, a Kenyan doctor, Peter Mwethera, who, after extensive research, has come up with a gel, that once applied will prevent contact of HIV/AIDS virus and other venereal diseases.

 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

 

The bounty of Kenya’s superlative human capital, not only drives our own society and economy, but also those of other nations.  Our highly-educated citizens are much sought after all over the globe. To signify the changing fortunes of our homeland, diaspora remittances grew by 10.9% from KSh. 266.19 billion to KSh. 295.32 billion between June 2018 and June 2019, overtaking earnings from export of tea and coffee as the country’s largest source of foreign exchange.

 

My Fellow Kenyans,

 

When we leave our homes every morning to travel to our schools, workplaces or social centres; we now do so on a network of high-standard roads, expressways, highways and dual carriages.  From Kibwezi – Kitui Road, Lokichar–Lodwar-Loichangamantak–Nakodok, Mombasa – Kwa Jomvu, Isebania–Kisii–Ahero; our network of roads drive our economy.

 

Where once bitumen standard roads were few and far between, now almost every corner of Kenya features extensive kilometers of top-grade roads, with others actively under construction.  Plans are already underway for even greater expansion, key among them East Africa’s first overpass from J.K.I.A. to Westlands, recently inaugurated and presently under construction.

 

This unprecedented enhancement in infrastructure has not been limited to our road network.

 

We have expanded our airports, sea and lake ports and laid the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR); ensuring a diversity in transportation that is unrivalled on the continent.

 

Coupled with an extensive telecommunication network infrastructure that features some of the highest internet speeds anywhere in the world, a Kenyan in even the most remote parts of our country can travel quickly and conveniently and can receive goods and services wherever they are, whenever they wish.

This enabling infrastructure has made Kenya a global leader in the arena of mobile technology.  We have revolutionized mobile banking, FinTech and the integration of cutting-edge technologies with the traditional economy.  Thanks to technology, transactions are now majorly conducted remotely from the palm of our hands and Government Services (Huduma) are requested and received on mobile devices across every last centimetre of our country.

 

As a result, the world has come calling and Kenya has hosted numerous global conferences and international exhibitions, which have enhanced Kenya’s visibility globally.  In this week alone, we have had over 10 Heads of State and Government attend the Summit of the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Group of Countries.

 

All across the country, transformation is taking place and the country is intensely under construction.

 

From the largest wind power in Africa that places Kenya as the world leader in green energy; petroleum exploration in Turkana, that in August propelled Kenya to the list of oil exporting countries of the world, to a new port in Lamu, that is, in addition to the expansion of the Port of Kilindini in Mombasa, to the Isiolo International Airport and the numerous upgraded airstrips in numerous counties, to the rehabilitation of the Port of Kisumu on the shores of Lake Victoria.

 

As an affirmation of the progress we have made; in honour of our solemn and sacred duty, to conserve our environment for current and future generations, in recognition of our credentials in green energy, Kenya was ranked fifth globally and top in Africa in the annual Bloomberg Climate Scope Index for the year 2019.

 

Our initiatives across the country are complimented by the transformation being undertaken by county governments across the country.  I am pleased to note that every county in Kenya has at least one major infrastructure project designed to directly benefit mwananchi.  These infrastructure projects are creating jobs and driving primary, secondary and ancillary business.

 

They are fuelling our economy and giving our growth and development greater impetus, thus creating the Kenya that our forefathers had envisioned.  In their honour, we are returning the River to its course.

My Fellow Kenyans,

Our bold and transformative agenda for a better Kenya, initiated in April 2013, has bridged the gap between standards of living in rural Kenya and that in urban Kenya.

 

The vast inequality and disparity that typified the Kenya of just a decade ago, has been eliminated almost entirely.  A farmer in rural Kenya has agricultural support services within easy reach and their produce reaches the market faster through an improved transport network.

 

Once-sleeping village and town centres, they have roared back to life due to decentralization of Government services as factories spring-up and once mothballed industries, bounce back to life.

 

We are a Government that cares for all its people.  Our senior citizens who have attained the age of 70, orphans and vulnerable children and persons living with severe disability, now receive a monthly stipend from the Government, so that they can continue to live in dignity.

 

This transformation also means that life in urban Kenya no longer features the rampant crime and insecurity that was prevalent just a decade ago.

My Administration has reformed, modernized and revitalized our police service; equipping it with the resources necessary to prevent, detect and deal with crime effectively and efficiently.  We have coupled this with an extensive programme of street lighting, CCTV cameras and enhanced foot and vehicular patrols, in addition to the very successful Nyumba Kumi Initiative.  Our towns and cities are safer and businesses can now operate 24 hours a day.

 

We are returning the River to its course by improving planning and service provision while allowing your taxes to work better for you.  Towards this, we conducted a successful National Census this year, soon after the roll out of Huduma Namba unique personal identifier, building up on this success story.

 

My Fellow Kenyans,

 

A nation is only as strong as its institutions.  Personalities come and go, but institutions endure and outlast us all.  It is therefore my intention to ensure that we fully institutionalize our governance and administrative principles and values as laid out in our Constitution and other laws.  Our Civil Service is the engine that drives the realization and implementation of our Nation’s aspirations and development agenda.

All our State Organs, both tiers of Government and all three arms of Government, are supported by the dedicated and diligent public officers.

 

Most of our civil servants are hardworking and selfless.  They are akin to the freedom fighters who braved the awful conditions of the forests to wage a righteous war for independence against the colonizing power.

 

At both National and County Level, they are birthing an even better Kenya through pens, paper, computers and a renewed commitment to duty and the fight against corruption.

 

The Rule of Law, Good Governance, Integrity, Transparency and Accountability are the pillars of our constitutional democracy.  They are the golden thread that is woven across the entirety of our Supreme Law.

 

Their inclusion was a deliberate codification of the shared values of the People of Kenya and their common aspiration for a better, more responsive and participatory Government, at both levels and across all three arms of Government.

 

Therefore, this golden standard must be applied equally and consistently to all; without fear or favour.

 

That is not only our sacred moral duty, but also our solemn legal obligation demanded of us by the Constitution and the Statute Laws.  On assumption of state office or public office, the officers become the trustees of the people; with a constitutional, statutory and moral duty to administer public affairs and resources in fidelity with the law, and strictly for the benefit of the people.

 

State and public officers are not above law.  Our constitutional order is a jealous one; it demands that state and public officers serve no other master but it. A teacher in the Public Service cannot have one foot in the classroom and the other in Parliament.  One cannot serve as a legislator at the National or County Level while at the same time practicing law, whether or not for gain.

 

In the same way, judges and magistrates cease completely any legal practice while in office, similarly doctors, engineers, accountants and other professionals who take up state or public office, should give up private practice and devote their full time, energies and focus on public duties; and without the perception that they are using state or public office as a mere platform to advance other interests.

 

Fellow Kenyans,

 

Is it fair and right for legislators who have control over funds and exercise oversight over the Judiciary to appear in courts as counsel?  Is it fair on the judicial officer hearing the case or the other parties that, one party in the case is represented by persons who can literally change the law applicable to the dispute, control the career progression of the judge or magistrate or are able to speak with the voice of an entire arm of Government?

 

The position is simple; you either serve the public in the role you signed up for or you serve the Republic as a private practitioner; it is a profound conflict of interest to do both.

 

The war on corruption will continue until we weed out from our midst, those who abuse the privileges of their office for personal benefit.  No magistrate or judge, or any other state or public officer, who has abused the public trust should be allowed to hide behind the veil of autonomy and independence.

I, therefore, direct the Attorney-General to fast-track the submission to Cabinet for approval and transmittal to Parliament, the Law on Conflict of Interest, which has been subject to stakeholders consultation.

 

My Fellow Kenyans,

 

As an affirmation of the steady progress that we are making and as a validation of our historical, tested and proven commitment to Africa’s positions and fulfillment of our obligations at the international level, Kenya has been endorsed overwhelmingly as African Union’s candidate for the non-permanent seat of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the period 2021-2022.  Kenya is ready to serve and we commit to pursue our shared prosperity and advancement of humanity.

 

Fellow Kenyans,

 

Over these Fifty-Six Years, our democracy has evolved tremendously.  Kenya has over the years taken bold and necessary decisions required to better our democracy, legal order and the ability of Government to serve and deliver the Kenyan dream.

As the first elected President under the Constitution of Kenya 2010, I am pleased with how we have implemented that new apex law.

 

Kenya is undoubtedly better today than we were in 2010; in large part because of the changes we ushered in through the new Constitution of Kenya.

 

In 2019, we once again find ourselves called upon to consider further bold and necessary actions, to better our democracy, and to enhance the effectiveness and inclusiveness of our governance system.  Just as in 1963, we have the opportunity to create a better nation by fostering how we govern ourselves.

 

We must not succumb to inertia or be afraid to implement change where necessary.  We must not elevate partisan positions or short-term interests over the greater good.

 

We are called upon to build bridges and heal divisions not because it is easy, but because it is who we are as Kenyans.  The independence-era heroes refused to be compromised with leadership positions while others in their numbers languished in colonial detention.

 

They put aside narrow political glory to self, in favour of Kenya’s wider and enduring interests.  In 2019, we are each called upon once again to put country above self, to put Kenya’s enduring interests above our fears and personal aspirations.  Let us for once say, “Kenya Kwanza; Leo, Kesho na Milele”.

 

My Fellow Kenyans,

 

Let us return the River to its course by emulating the independence generation who sought to build a united Kenya.

 

They had the dream of “One Kenya, One People”. Over the years, this fundamental platform was diminished by political balkanization, pandering to narrow divides and succumbing to the false allure of transient political aspirations.

 

Whereas all Kenyans have a part to play in bringing the Kenyan dream to fruition, Kenya’s political leadership must take the lead in this process.  To do this, we must adopt a long term view of what we hope Kenya will become in the future.

 

In this regard, we must remember that ancient African mantra that “a society grows great when old men plant trees in whose shade they know they shall never sit”.

 

Each of us, you and me; must make daily decisions purely driven by Kenya’s wider and enduring interests. This is not an unreasonable ask or an impossible position.

 

We are gathered here today to celebrate men and women who did precisely that; whether in resisting the invading colonial forces, or confronting them once they established their rule, or building this blessed Nation after we expelled the colonizer.  We are their descendants; their greatness flows in our blood and their sacrifice forged our bones. To return the River to its course, we must live and breathe the mantra of “Kenya Kwanza; Leo, Kesho na Milele”.

 

My Fellow Kenyans,

 

What is this “Kenya Kwanza; Leo, Kesho na Milele” on a day to day basis?  It is committing, like the independence-era generation, to doing all that is necessary for Kenya to thrive and achieve all our collective aspirations for a brighter and better tomorrow.  In 2019, we are not asked to fight in the forests or to confront a colonial power on the streets.

 

We are called upon to obey the law, to discharge our civic duty, to conserve our environment, to care for our parents and children, to refuse to be corrupt, to be mindful of our neighbours, to bring blessings to the less fortunate and to resist negative ethnicity, tribalism, religious divides and everything that undermine our unity and cohesion.

 

We are a Nation called upon to be great, to be a beacon of hope for others, to be on this earth the reflection of divine providence, favour and protection. Fifty Six Years on, our democracy is stronger.

 

Fellow Kenyans,

 

Now is the time to recommit ourselves and put “Kenya Kwanza; Leo, Kesho na Milele”. In so doing, we shall have honoured the enduring legacy of the independence-generation to whom we are greatly indebted.

MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND MAY GOD BLESS KENYA. ASANTENI.

16,000 families to get Sh6,000 from government

About 1600 households in Narok East Sub County will benefit from a Sh. 6, 000 monthly cash transfer and 8, 000, 50kg bags of pellets to mitigate the effects of the ongoing drought in the area, thanks to the county government in collaboration with Food Agriculture Organization (FAO).

The newly appointed County Executive Committee Member in charge of Agriculture and Livestock Ms. Joyce Keshe said the money will be given in the months of November and December to the selected homesteads that have been severely affected by drought.

This means each household will get a total of Sh12, 000 in the two months that will be used to buy basic commodities like food and milk, while the pellets will be used to feed their livestock.

“This is one of the measures the county is taking to mitigate the ongoing drought. The National and County governments recently flagged off 400 bags of rice and 160 bags of beans to each of the sub-counties to be distributed to the vulnerable families,” she said.

Ms. Keshe said the households were mostly selected from hard-hit areas namely, Mosiro, Ntulele, Nturumeti, and Suswa areas.

At the same time, she said, the veterinary department will vaccinate the livestock in the entire county against foot and mouth disease and Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) and Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia (CBPP) that is common during prolonged dry spell seasons.

On the sale of livestock, the CEC said the prices are a bit fair in Narok County compared to other counties like Kajiado where many animals have died of hunger.

“We have not reached a point of selling our animals at Sh. 500 for a mature cow or Sh. 100 for a mature goat. At least a cow is selling between Sh.20, 000 and Sh30, 000.” She said adding that in normal seasons, the price of a mature cow is Sh50, 000 and a goat sells at Sh.5, 000.

The CEC spoke from her office today after she was oriented in the office by the sector directors among them Bernard Kimento, Agriculture, Dr. Gideon Geasha., Veterinary, David Naisho, Livestock, Vincent Kinyua, Fisheries and Peter Lunanu, Meteorology.

The Government- A collation of today’s government activities

A sneak preview into the activities of  government ministries and departments, today:

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

✅CS Amb. Monica Juma arrived in Seoul,Korea for a one day official visit today, she is expected to hold talks with PM Lee Nak-Yeon, among other high ranking officials. The CS will seek South Korea’s participation and support in the Blue Economy Conference, scheduled for November 2018.

Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government:

✅ CS Matiang’i declares October 10 a public hexams” | Newsblaze.co.ke

Ministry of Energy

✅Energy Cabinet Secretary Hon. Keter charles accompanied by Nyandarua County MP Hon. Faith Gitau and Ndaragwa MP Hon. Jeremiah Kioni this morning launched the last mile program at Ndigino and Mbuyu villages in Ndaragua Constituency, Nyandarua County.

Education Ministry

✅ The CS, Amb. Amina Mohammed, spells out tough rules to safeguard National Exams. No visitation by parents to school this term and Banning of phones in exam centres are among the measures emphasized today.
“We will be fair to all candidates in administration and marking of exams- CS Amina says | Newsblaze.co.ke

Foreign Affairs- Amb. Hon. Dan Kazungu; High Commissioner to Tanzania.

✅The Govt of Kenya led by HE President Uhuru Kenyatta through the Foreign Office of Kenya has, today, pledged Kshs 5.5 Million (Tshs 125 Million) to go towards support of the survivors of the tragedy(Boat accident), upgrading the local Health Centre & construction of a Memorial Centre in remembrance of the victims.

Ministry of Environment and Forestry

✅Environment & Forestry CS Keriako Tobiko and Kenya Forestry Services Ag. CCF Kalenda Monica met with officials from Ngong Road Community Forest Association to discuss sustainable development of the forest.

Ministry of Sports, Culture & Heritage

✅Second batch of Harambee Stars players jetted out to Ethiopia for the AFCON fixture. Foreign based players also checked in https://t.co/7mT4X3CmFW

✅ Nairobi Governor, Mike Sonko, Gives Ksh. 1 Billion for construction of Nairobi Stadiums:
Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko, has announced that Ksh 1 billion will be used for rehabilitation of 6 Stadiums. The Stadiums are: Dandora Grounds, Umeme Grounds, Kihumbuini, Joseph Kangethe Woodley Grounds, Ziwani and Riruta. https://t.co/8cCKr66ROl

The Deputy Presidency

✅The Deputy President, Hon. William S. Ruto, Opened the Mbeere South Land Registry and issued 12,000 title deeds to locals of Wachoro, Gichichie and Riakina settlement schemes. Those living in Karaba and Makima schemes will receive 51,000 titles, Kiritiri, Embu County.

Ministry of Tourism & Wild Life

✅Alibaba’s cloud services to help Kenya protect wildlife – Window To News https://t.co/Ywa9a1BiPj

Busia County Government Ministers, Chief Officers, Advisers, CECs

Busia County Government Ministers, Chief Officers, Advisers, CECs

BUSIA COUNTY CECM NOMINEES/ APPOINTED MINISTERS

1. H.E Arthur Papa Odera – Deputy Governor and CEC for Water, Irrigation & Natural Resources.

2. Mrs. Topista Night Wanyama – Finance, ICT & Economic Planning (Budalangi).

3. Mr. Peter K. Odima – Lands, Housing & Urban Development (Nambale).

4. Mrs. Beatrice Nakholi – Health & Sanitation (Matayos).

5. Mr. Andrew Nakitare – Public Administration and Gender Affairs (Budalangi).

6. Paul Olunga Ikwenye – Sports, Culture & Social Services (Teso North).

7. Ms. Pamela Awuori – Education & Vocational Training (Samia).

8. Dr. Cymblicious George Mukoo – Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, Climate Change, Blue Economy & Agribusiness (Butula).

9. Omuse Fidel Olekachuna – Trade. Industry, Investment & Co-operatives (Teso South).

10. Eng. Andrew Meso – Public Works, Energy & Transport (Butula).

ADVISORS:

1. Mr. Solomon Abwaku – Advisor on Public Administration and Human Resource Management (Teso North).

2. Ms. Melsa Namangale – Economic Advisor.

3. Mr. Lawrence Kuchio – Advisor on Legal Affairs (Butula).

4. Hon. Nur Mohammed Ali – Advisor on Political Guidance & Minority Affairs.

COUNTY ATTORNEY:

– Mr. Innocent Omboko

We will make every effort to ensure our youth realize their full potential- President Uhuru promises as the 2019 International Youth day is held

Every year the 12th of August is the commemoration of International Youth Day (IYD). The theme for International Youth Day 2019 is ‘Transforming Education’. This year’s event highlighted efforts to make education more inclusive and accessible for all youth and efforts to make education more relevant, equitable and inclusive for all youth, including efforts by youth themselves. 

Here is President Uhuru Kenyatta’s speech during the 2019 International Youth Day celebrations held in Kwale County;

[I am happy to join you in commemorating the International Youth Day – 2019, in Kwale County. This year’s theme, “Transforming Education” is, indeed, timely. It has been domesticated in Kenya as “Boresha Elimu, Wezesha Vijana”.

This is in recognition of the vital role played by education in creating the platforms upon which the Youth explore and develop their skills and talents, acquire knowledge and competencies for a lifetime, and guided onto the path of being positive contributors to themselves, their families, their community and the Country as a whole.

To that end, Kenya has emerged as a continental leader in the deployment of empowering youth education. We lead Africa in primary-to-secondary school transition rates, having realized 100% transition last year.

To better align our education system with the changing needs of today’s youth, as well as the new realities and opportunities of a 21st century world; the Government introduced the Competency Based Curriculum, in addition to creating 102 Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) centers of excellence in public secondary schools.

In these centres of excellence, cutting-edge training in areas such as robotics and Artificial Intelligence allows our secondary schools to help mould the next generation of giants in the Digital Economy. We expect to see soon world class innovations being developed by young Kenyans that will revolutionize the world.

I am also pleased to see that the Ministry concerned with matters of Youth has commenced an ambitious plan to refurbish and operationalize a total of 152 Youth Empowerment Centres (YECs) across the Country. These centres act as ‘one-stop shops’, where youth can access key services as well as acquire skills for their personal development. Twenty one (21) of these are already fully operational, with another 60 to be fully functioning by the end of 2019.

We expect each and every Young Person in the country to be able to utilize the services available within these Centres to access online opportunities, acquire new skills and competencies.

Furthermore, the services provided in these centres will enable the youth to build collaborative networks with like-minded enterprising youth in Kenya and internationally, receive training and mentorship, to mention, but a few.

Since 2013, my Administration has implemented a progressive agenda for the youth that has focused on assisting them in accessing financial resources to drive their dreams. One of these is the “Young Africa Works Programme”, launched a few weeks, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, which aims to create more than 2 million jobs in the next 5 years.

Another such initiative is the ‘MbeleNaBiz’ Business Plan Competition under the Kenya Youth Employment and Opportunities Project. MbeleNaBiz aims to expand new and existing youth-led enterprises by providing them with grant funding and/or business plan training. I encourage all youth with entrepreneurial talent to take advantage and utilize these and other similar Government
initiatives, to prosper.

Finally, given our position as a Global Leader for the Young Peoples Agenda, I affirm my Administration’s commitment to remain true to the spirit of Article 55 of our Constitution. We will make every effort to ensure our youth realize their full potential and participate effectively in the advancement of the social, economic and political agenda of our Nation.

I thank you all once again for being part of these celebrations and wish you a happy “International Youth Day”.
Thank You And God Bless You.]

The Finance act, Kenya- 2018

SPECIAL ISSUE
Kenya Gazette Supplement No. 121 (Acts No. 10):

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THE KENYAN CONSTITUTION-2010

Please take away the maize scandal ‘thieves’- Francis Atwoli prays (video)

The Central Organization of Trade Unions’ (COTU) Secretary General, Francis Atwoli, has sensationally prayed to God to ‘take away’ the perpetrators of the recent maize scandal that hit the National Cereals and Produce Board, NCPB. During a meeting over the weekend at the expansive Rift Valley region, the Fiery COTU boss pleaded to God to eliminate the perpetrators whom he says have caused immense suffering to the local community members by embezzling maize proceeds meant for the farmers.

Atwoli also prayed to God to intervene in the current standoff at the National Services and Security Fund, NSSF, saying an unidentified lady from the Federation of Kenya Employers, FKE, is plotting for his removal from the NSSF board to embezzle the Kshs. 260 billion at the kitty. He did not forget to pray for the President, H.E Uhuru Kenyatta.

See the video, below:

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Government to digitize court proceedings, employ youths under the Ajira Digital Program

The government is planning to digitize all court proceedings for easy relay and following of court cases. These revelation was made by the Ministry of Information and Information Technology, ICT, Principal Secretary, PS Jerome Ochieng’.

PS Ochieng’ was speaking at the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development, KICD, this morning where the ICT Ministry is currently running a Training of Trainners (ToT) session at the KICD with over 520 delegates in attendance.

”The future of work is changing due to technology. We will find ourselves in the future working differently. We need align ourselves with these changes.” Said PS Jerome Ochieng in the opening session.

Participants have been nominated from TVETs, all counties and Regional ICT Officers

“Take this opportunity to learn how to alleviate unemployment by learning digital training skills through Ajira,” Ochieng added.

The PS said the government will deploy the youths trained under the Ajira Digital Program to work in the Kenyan courts; once the operations are digitized.

“GoK (Government of Kenya) is also planning to offer jobs to the youth through Ajira Digital. Talks are under way to digitise the court proceedings and we want the Ajira Digital youth to do this work,” Ochieng’ promised. This will be good news to many unemployed youths.

This year’s forum will explore how county governments can utilize ICT to automate processes, support revenue collection and administration and spur socio-economic development. The three day training ends on Wednesday, 24 October, 2018.