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Book Review by
Meresia Aloo.

In the vast landscape of political literature, there emerges a beacon of insight and wisdom that promises not only a deep dive into Kenya’s political history but also a profound call for unity and understanding. “The Political Canary of Kenya” authored by the seasoned Engineer Akech Ochungo, a distinguished senior lecturer at Multimedia University Of Kenya, presents a compelling narrative that transcends boundaries and beckons readers to embark on a journey of political enlightenment.
At the heart of this thought-provoking book lies a passionate exploration of the Joluo people and their political experiences from pre-independence to the present day. Engineer Akech Ochungo, through his rich narrative, invites us to reflect on the evolution of Kenya’s political landscape and encourages a collective shift towards political maturity.
This literary masterpiece, spanning 11 chapters, is not merely a historical account but a profound guide that seeks to foster a more compassionate and harmonious approach to our nation’s political discourse. As the author gently nudges us towards understanding the Joluo people, he simultaneously advocates for the appreciation and respect of every Kenyan community and individual, fostering a sense of unity in diversity.
What sets “The Political Canary of Kenya” apart is not just its exploration of historical events but its relevance to the current political climate. Engineer Akech Ochungo urges readers to contemplate the necessary steps for our nation to achieve the unity it desperately needs. Through a delicate balance of sensitivity and mindfulness, the book serves as a catalyst for transformative thinking, pushing us towards a future characterized by mutual understanding and collaboration.
To give you a taste of the profound insights within the pages of this book, we will be unraveling its contents through a series of engaging episodes across various digital media platforms. Join us as we provide a step-by-step overview of the invaluable knowledge and wisdom encapsulated in each chapter.
And what about the symbolism of the canary in this book? To discover its significance and delve deeper into the intricate layers of “The Political Canary of Kenya,” visit us at any Textbook Centre located near you. Don’t miss the opportunity to secure your copy and embark on a journey that promises to reshape your understanding of Kenya’s political tapestry.
For more enquiries on how to get the book , contact us via email at habarithach@gmail.com or booksprocurement@tbc.co.ke. Alternatively, call us at 07307350000 to reserve your copy. Trust us; you don’t want to miss the chance to own a piece of this literary gem. “The Political Canary of Kenya” awaits, inviting you to be a part of the dialogue that shapes the future of our great nation.

By Benard Mulwa

The Kenya Rugby Union board of Directors led by Mr. Alexander Mutai the Chairman and Mr. John Kilonzo in charge of women rugby has today unveiled the names of the Shujaa and Lionesses squads that will be in action at the first round of the World Rugby HSBC Challenger 2024 from 12-14 January in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.  

Mwamba’s Brian Mutugi (pictured above) is set for his second appearance in Shujaa colors after being named in the 12 man squad for the opening round of the World Rugby HSBC Challenger 2024

Mutugi, who debuted during the Safari 7s, is the only change from the side that secured victory and Paris 2024 Olympic qualification with a 17-12 cup final win over South Africa in the Rugby Africa Men’s 7s last September in Harare, Zimbabwe.

Vincent Onyala and Anthony Omondi co-captain the side who will play out of Pool C.

The team starts with a clash against Mexico at 13:14 EAT on Friday, January 12, 2024 before taking on East African rivals Uganda at 17:58 EAT. They will conclude their Pool C campaign against Germany at 12:59 EAT on Saturday, January 13, 2024.

Commenting on the side’s preparations, Head Coach Kevin Wambua told KRU Media, “Our training sessions leading up to the Christmas break were highly productive, emphasizing skill enhancement and the development of effective attack and defense strategies. Despite a setback in early December when we were unable to participate in the Dubai event, we utilized internal games to refine our performance based on the valuable insights gained from the Safari 7s evaluation.

The competitive atmosphere within the squad has proven to be both robust and constructive, pushing each team member to bring their best to the forefront and contributing to an overall improvement in team dynamics. The recent three-day camp at Turi was instrumental in further elevating our preparedness. The choice of Turi was strategic, taking advantage of the high-altitude weather to better acclimate ourselves for the upcoming tournament in Dubai.

As we approach the competition, our focus is on taking each game as it comes, with the ultimate goal of securing a podium position. Given that the Challenger series consists of four legs, a strong start in the first leg is pivotal. This not only builds confidence within the team but also alleviates pressure for subsequent tournaments. Our target is clear – to establish ourselves early on and maintain a competitive edge throughout the series,” he concluded.

Shujaa squad to Dubai
Vincent Onyala (KCB, Co-Captain), Tony Omondi (Mwamba, Co-Captain), Brian Tanga (Kabras Sugar),Kevin Wekesa (Kabras Sugar), John Okoth (Menengai Oilers), Samuel Asati (KCB), Nygel Amaitsa (Strathmore Leos), Festus Shiasi (KCB), William Mwanji (Kabras Sugar), George Ooro (Strathmore Leos), Patrick Odongo (Daystar Falcons), Brian Mutugi (Mwamba) MANAGEMENT: Kevin Wambua (Head Coach), Louis Kisia (Assistant Coach), Andrew Amonde (Assistant Coach), Lamech Francis Bogonko (Physio), Steve Sewe (Team Manager)

Sheila Chajira is back in the Lionesses squad to the World Rugby HSBC Challenger 2024. 

Chajira was part of the Lionesses squad that reached the final of the Safari 7s, in what was her first appearance for the sevens national team since the Tokyo Olympics in August 2021.

Grace Okulu captains that side that seeks to secure qualification to the 2025 HSBC SVNS at the close of this campaign.

Lionesses Sevens Head Coach Dennis Mwanja spoke to Kenya Rugby about the upcoming assignment.

Mwanja, a former Shujaa skipper touched on the team’s preparations, expectations and selection criteria.

Preparation for Dubai Event
“Our transition from fifteens to sevens has been a rewarding journey, and the team has made significant strides in improvement. As we gear up for Dubai, the combination of youthful energy and seasoned experience within our squad is promising, creating an atmosphere of enthusiasm and anticipation for the upcoming challenge next weekend.”

Lionesses’ Tournament Approach
“Taking a measured approach, we are approaching the tournament one game at a time. A thorough analysis of our opponents reveals their worth, but our team is grounded in self-belief and quietly confident in our capabilities. Our focus on staying fresh, being fully prepared, and maintaining a hunger for victory will be the key factors that carry us through the competition.”

Squad Selection Criteria
“In assembling our squad, we considered a blend of experience, current form, and maturity on the field. Striking a delicate balance between youthful vigor, seasoned expertise, and leadership qualities was paramount. It is upon this combination that we place our trust to deliver the desired results in the upcoming event.”

The Lionesses, participating in Pool B of the women’s competition, will kick off their campaign with a match against China at 11:36 EAT on Friday, January 12, 2024.

Subsequently, they will go head-to-head with Czechia at 15:58 EAT on the same day. The Lionesses will wrap up their pool fixtures against Mexico at 10:59 EAT on Saturday, January 13.

Lionesses squad to Dubai
Grace Okulu (Captain), Stella Wafula, Maureen Muritu, Phoebe Akinyi, Naomi Amuguni, Christabel Lindo, Sheila Chajira, Judy Okumu, Sinaida Nyachio, Sharon Auma, Diana Awino,Janet Okello, Diana Kemunto MANAGEMENT: Dennis Mwanja (Head Coach), Paul Murunga (Assistant Coach), Jeff Onyango (Assistant Coach), Levis Kituyi (Physio), Camyline Oyuayo (Team Manager)

Tennis Kenya President Mr. James Kenani third from left back row and Rosemary Owino, Tennis Coach second from right with Zion zone tennis team at Nairobi Club yesterday. Photo: Jared Odhiambo.

By Benard Mulwa

The President for tennis Kenya Mr. James Kenani has today flagged off Zion tennis team which will be flying to Burundi tomorrow for the East Africa Championship for under 14 and under 16.

 The team which will be playing against East African Countries is set to represent Kenya is in two groups, boys and girls under 14 and 16 years.

Mr. Kenani said Kenya is regarded as a strong team in East Africa and the team has trained enough to face their opponents.  

Present at the flagging off ceremony of the team in Nairobi Club was Mr. Sean Del Ross, the father of Ayan Quadres who is playing under 14 and Mr. Anand Chandarana the father of Aum Chandarana playing under 14 as well.

The President for tennis Kenya said the team is well sponsored and their stay in Burundi should be comfortable and he is seeking to co-ordinate with the Ministry of tourism to make the game more popular within Africa.   

According to the President, the team is sponsored by International tennis federation but he asked the parents of the players to join in supporting.

“We will be having a zonal meeting in Burundi to discuss what best we can do to make it better in East Africa,” he said adding that in their last match Kenya performed well and immerged the winners.

Rosemary Owino, Coacher of the team said the federation is seeking to introduce young coaches to work with the old coaches in the team as part of a long term the federation is developing adding that the girls are doing better than the boys.

REKNOWN Kenyan communication expert Pauline Njoroge has been picked as one of the 10 members of the Commonwealth Experts Team (CET) to observe the Bangladesh elections to be held on January 7.

Ms Njoroge, left the country last night for Bangladesh capital, Dhaka to join the other nine members of the team headed by former Jamaican Prime Minister Bruce Golding.

The team was picked by Commonwealth Secretary General Patricia Scotland, on request by Bangladesh Election Commission.

The Commonwealth secretariat picks observers for elections in its member states, from among distinguished persons in their various fields.

Ms Njoroge, has made a name as a digital media communication expert in various organizations with a big following on social media. She is also the Deputy National Organizing Secretary of the former ruling party Jubilee which is headed by retired President Uhuru Kenyatta.

In Bangladesh the CET will meet various groups such as political parties, the police, civil societies among others ahead of the polls.

The South Asian country is the first country to hold elections this year, with more than 60 countries set to hold presidential, parliamentary and local elections.

Some 119.6 million voters will be going to the polls on Monday, to vote for 300 members of Bangladesh Parliament called Jatiya Sangsad. This is the 12th election since 1971 when Bangladesh broke away from Pakistan to become an independent nation.

The Parliament has 350 members, (300 elected and 50 seats exclusively reserved for women). The leader of the party or coalition of parties with the highest number of MPs is ceremoniously picked by the President to become the Prime Minister.

The President is elected by Parliament as a ceremonial figure while the Prime Minister is the chief executive and head of government.

The incumbent Prime Minister is Sheikh Hasina who has led the country under her party Awami League, since January 6, 2009.

Hasina the 10th Prime Minister of Bangladesh is the daughter of the founding father and first President of Bangladesh Sheikh Mujibur Rahman . She is campaigning to retain the seat should her party win majority of the seats in parliament.

The current president Mohammed Shahabuddin was elected by Parliament in January this year for a five year term.

Bangladesh is 148,460 square kilometers (a quarter of Kenya in size), but has a population of 169.4 million according to 2022 census making it the eighth biggest population in the world. Its almost entirely surrounded by India.

The “MAMi- Mediterranean and African Markets Initiative” project is promoted by the World Farmers Markets Coalition in collaboration with the Mediterranean Agronomic Institute of Bari (CIHEAM of Bari), with financial support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
The project focuses on alternative food networks and, more specifically, farmers markets. Because farmers markets involve direct relationships between producers and consumers and promote local food, they guarantee the stabilization of producers’ incomes, protect biodiversity and the environment, and strengthen communities and rural and urban linkages. In fact, it is increasingly believed that farmers markets are the symbol of an agricultural, modern, entrepreneurial, multifunctional and sustainable model capable of making an effective contribution to worldwide food security and sovereignty.
Over the next 3 years, MAMi aims to create 50 farmers markets with the involvement of more than 1,000 farmers, thanks also to the emergence of new professions, those of market managers, in five countries stretching from the Mediterranean to sub-Saharan Africa (Lebanon, Tunisia, Kenya, Egypt and Albania). A capacity-building model capable of responding to the needs of different territorial contexts ranging from technical assistance to strengthen existing entities, to the development of new markets where none exist or where small efforts show promise.
The project was launched last October at the Coldiretti Village in Rome in the presence of several authorities, and in early January, the first classroom training will be held at the prestigious headquarters of Ciheam in Tricase, in which sector representatives from the five target countries will participate in order to acquire, including through guided visits to established farmers markets, the necessary skills on systems based on local food consumption. This will be challenging work that will begin with an analysis of the different national contexts, continue with the assessment of needs until concrete actions are put in place to lay the foundations for the spread of a system of short supply chains, with farmers, consumers and local communities as our protagonists.
The World Farmers Markets Coalition, was presented in July 2021 at the Pre-Food System Summit in Rome in the presence of UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, and in June 2022 the nonprofit association called the World Farmers Markets Coalition was established. On that occasion, it was decided to establish its headquarters in Rome in order to foster an ongoing dialogue with the agencies of the UN agri-food cluster (FAO, IFAD and WFP).
WorldFMC aims to become the international voice of the local food system based on the direct relationship between farmers and consumers. A sustainable production model that cares for farmers, local communities and the environment. It is a community supported by more than 70 associations in more than 50 countries, representing 20,000 farmers’ markets around the world.
Capacity building is one of the Coalition’s main activities: creating a network for the exchange of knowledge and best practices for farmers and farmers market managers is at the core of our association’s activities.
Founded in 1962, the International Center for Advanced Mediterranean Agronomic Studies (CIHEAM) is a Mediterranean intergovernmental organization composed of 13 member countries (Albania, Algeria, Egypt, France, Greece, Italy, Lebanon, Malta, Morocco, Portugal, Spain, Tunisia and Turkey). CIHEAM has a long history of multilateral and regional cooperation and offers education and training, research, technical assistance and capacity building.
It operates through its four institutes based in Bari – CIHEAM Bari – (Italy), Chania – CIHEAM Chania – (Greece), Montpellier – CIHEAM Montpellier – (France), and Zaragoza – CIHEAM Zaragoza – (Spain), and its headquarters – CIHEAM SG, based in Paris.

Bishop. Dr. Geoffrey Njuguna, of Deliverance Church Langata.PHOTO: File.

By Benard Mulwa

As Christians across the country thronged places of worship last night in readiness to usher the new year ahead, message of hope and strength took the center stage.

At Deliverance Church Langata, Bishop Dr. Geoffrey Njuguna preached about the power of tongue during the ceremony, saying words are powerful and we must remember that the tongue has the power of life and death. In his sermon, Bishop Geoffrey Njuguna was saying this in reference to Kenyans who show dissatisfaction to the leadership of President William Ruto.

“I am concerned about when people become murmurous, when people are given to complain is like after people balked at entering the promised Land, that entire generation faded in a 40 year journey to nowhere when they failed to trust God, shying away from entering the promised Land, God took care of them in the wilderness. They were still His people but they lost everything associated with the promises of God and those losses were real, Bishop Dr. Geoffrey Njuguna said, let’s hope for a better year ahead in 2024”.

Commenting about the high cost of living, Bishop Dr. Geoffrey Njuguna said the economy of this country is projected to grow, and people should expect the prices of basic commodities will come down even though Kenyans have gone through a difficult time in 2023.

Bishop Dr. Geoffrey Njuguna further expresses concerns that most leaders think about politics as the opposition leader Hon. Raila Odinga has once again hit out at the government over the skyrocketing  cost of living and warned of fresh round of demonstrations in the coming year 2024.

The Bishop implored Hon. Raila Odinga to desist from a section of politicians who want to make chaos by calling for demos, “we have a President who is convincing, let Hon. Raila Odinga come out in public if he has any better solutions,” adding that there is a need to the leaders to change attitude.

Addressing the media in his office last night, the Bishop said Parliament, judiciary and the executive must continue working together and ensure Kenya must to have an electoral body in place by June in 2024 to make preparations for the 2027 elections.

“Let us all work hard and stop murmuring, complaining  because it brings negative effects and will cut off your vision for the future, even Jesus did not complain,”  the Bishop said adding that it is for us to understand gratitude and thank God for the gift of life and think about good things in our life.

The Bishop also talked about the health Bill, housing levy and the hustler fund, which he said is a good gesture, with a record of 100 million transactions every day.     

By Meresia Aloo

In a recent statement, Ben Chumo lauded the Governor’s Bii education regalia, stressing the imperative to reflect on the significance of this day. He emphasized that education is a lifelong journey, an ever-evolving channel crucial in a country like Kenya, rich in potential and talent. Chumo highlighted that education is not a privilege but a fundamental right for every citizen.

Underlining the idea that the pursuit of knowledge should extend beyond a specific phase of life, Chumo pointed out a common misconception of considering education complete after obtaining a degree. He urged citizens to recognize the pivotal role political leaders play in the country, emphasizing their duty to invest in education.

Chumo stated firmly, “Investing in the education of Kenyan youth is an investment in Kenya itself.” He called for a commitment to ensure that no Kenyan is left behind, encouraging those who haven’t finished school to do so, emphasizing that education opens doors of opportunity. Chumo concluded by stressing that age should not be a barrier to completing one’s education.

CS for Labour and Social Protection Hon. Florence Bore and Khaled Actouki

By Benard Mulwa

The government of Kenya and Saudi Arabia have collaboratively joined efforts to rally the process of migrant workers from Kenya going to Saudi Arabia.

This comes even as a delegation of recruiting agents from Takamol, Saudi Arabia visits Kenya today for a two day tour to meet with National Employment Authority, (NEA) National Industrial Training Authority, (NITA) homecare Training Centre and East Africa College of Tourism and Hospitality among other to discuss and deliberate ways on how to streamline the process of recruitment of domestic workers.

Addressing the media in her office today, the Cabinet Secretary for labour and social protection Hon. Florence Bore said this meeting was a follow up of President William Ruto’s visit in Riyadh Saudi Arabia for discussions aimed at enhancing bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and the Africa nations, job opportunities and the establishment of trade agreement.

The team will brief the Cabinet Secretary for labour and social protection Hon. Florence Bore on the overview of the visit latter tomorrow.

The CS said the bilateral labour agreement has been reviewed and are waiting for the parliament to clear it up adding that the government is going to clean up on rogue recruiting agents, “we have cleaned up rouge recruiting agents up from 900 to 500, and the government is looking forward to have a desk at the Jomo Kenyatta Airport to able to know and track the process of migrant workers” adding that currently there are 210,000 migrant workers in Saudi Arabia from Kenya and the government is looking to increase the number, she told journalists.

 Mr. Khaled Actouki, the Chief Executive Officer of Takamol said time, duration and affordability are the factors that puts Kenya in a better position when it comes to the recruiting process as compared to other countries, “Kenyan skilled and domestic workers are well trained, they don’t run away in the middle of their contracts and are affordable” he said.

The government of Kenya is seeking to integrate the National Employment Authority and the ministry of labour.    

By Steve Sabai

The culmination of the two-month-long Hon. Mishi Mboko’s CDF football cup tournament, featuring 68 participating teams, is set to take place this Saturday at Likoni Stadium.

Bodaboda FC from Jamsa Stage in Ferry, Likoni, will go head-to-head with Panama FC of Shikaadabu in an eagerly anticipated final, to be inaugurated by Commissioner Hon. Mishi Mboko.

Likoni is brimming with excitement, especially with local boys’ team Panama FC relying on their home ground advantage to triumph over Bodaboda FC.

Nevertheless, Bodaboda FC has a track record of resilience, having emerged victorious in the 2018 Bodaboda Football Tournament, where they claimed Kshs. 50,000. This year, they aim to assert their dominance in local football.

In the semifinals, Panama FC showcased their prowess with a commanding 4-1 win against Mende FC from Bofu Ward, while Bodaboda FC secured a hard-fought 3-0 victory over Hope Rangers FC in penalty shootouts, demonstrating their consistency in this thrilling tournament.

This tournament, consuming the majority of our youths’ time and activities, was designed to showcase their dedication, skills, sportsmanship, and talents.

As the tournament reaches its electrifying phase, the standings reflect an engaging competition, drawing the attention of dignitaries, including Mombasa County Senator Hon. Mohamed Faki, County Assembly Speaker Hon. Aharub Ebrahim Khatari, Women Representative Hon. Zamzam Mohamed, several MPs, MCAs, and others, who will be in attendance.

The Managing Director of Kenya’s leading credit only microfinance, Jijenge Credit Limited, Mr Peter Macharia Kamau has taken a moment to wish all Kenyans well ,ahead of Christmas festivities.

Mr Kamau, who has steered Jijenge Credit Limited to greatness, is a highly respected captain of the industry.

No other microfinance extends logbook loans in minutes apart from Jijenge Credit Limited.

“Do not worry about giving your loved ones a treat this Christmas. Just walk into our offices or dial us and you be rest assured to get a loan in minutes. This will ensure you treat your loved ones with a feast. Christmas comes once a year so it’s wise to enjoy it to the fullest,” Mr Kamau advised.

He at the same time urged Kenyans to enjoy the festivities with care especially those who will be sitting on the driver’s seat to drive safely to avoid road carnage.

Finally Peter Macharia Kamau wished all Jijenge Credit Limited family, clients, stakeholders, et al and all Kenyans in general a Merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous blessed Year 2024 !!