Day: April 8, 2024

Youth in Kenya have been urged to embrace agribusiness so as to tackle unemployment and boost food security.

According to Charles Macharia, Managing Director, Latia Agri-business Solutions, there are enormous untapped opportunities in agriculture which the unemployed youths could take advantage of to eke a living and improve their livelihoods.

Macharia challenged the youth to take up courses on agriculture and food production so as to gain skills which will enable them to start up their own agricultural enterprises and become self-employed.

Speaking during the launch of Eco-Latia sustainably grown produce, the MD revealed that Latia Agripreneurship Institute offers training to the youth on agribusiness by focusing on the use of biological systems in food production

‘At Latia we train the youth on food production through the use of biological systems that minimize the use of pesticides to ensure that the produce is safe for consumption,’ he said.

He noted that with the new farming techniques, the farmers’
yields and income have increased, furthermore, they produce safe food while also taking care of the environment, Macharia added apart from training, the institution also links the youth with markets for their produce.

He revealed that apart from the neighboring local markets, the Eco-Latia produce is also sold at various food market chains such as Zucchini Food Market. ‘We have partnered with various organizations to ensure that the youth have a market for their produce. You can find some of our produce which are sustainably grown at Zucchini Food market outlets,’ he said.

Ann Macharia Head of Training at Latia reiterated that Latia facilitates agribusinesses’ access to mechanization, digitization and automation systems to increase productivity and efficiency as well as promote sustainable production.

The technologies promoted by us include ICT management systems, farm automation and mechanization, inputs, value addition systems. Hence, she noted that training of youth in agribusiness and establishing link
s to markets is key to development, economic growth and food security.

Macharia said the farmers who are mostly youth are trained on climate smart and sustainable farming practices, integrated pest management, record keeping, enterprise farming, financial credit access, market linkages and post-harvest management.

For Instance, Kelvin Wandera, a farmer from Kibiko revealed that the training he received at Latia has enabled him to embrace sustainable agricultural practices. He added that he is now able to produce safe products for consumption and has a ready market for capsicum, tomatoes and cucumbers which he grows in his farm.

Lastly, he encouraged the youth to embrace farming as there were a lot of opportunities in agribusiness instead of chasing after elusive white collar jobs.

Source: Kenya News Agency

The Mining police unit says it will seal all loophopes used by idividuals to break mining laws in the country.

While paying a courtesy call on the Turkana County Directorate of Mineral Resources to discuss enforcing mining laws to prevent illegal activities in Turkana County’s mining industry Head of the Mining Police Unit, Richard Ndirangui, reiterated the unit’s intentions to partner with counties in arresting the challenge of illegal practices in the mining sector.

The engagement focused on approaches of sealing loopholes applied by unscrupulous individuals to flout mining laws and conduct dubious deals for their benefit. Meanwhile, the meeting also facilitated information exchange and familiarization on mining laws between the National agency and the County Government.

Chief Officer for Energy and Petroleum Triza Amoni emphasized the importance of upholding the mining laws, terming the move as a strategy to secure the sector’s future.

He stated that ‘the visit is an eye opener; we now understand the n
eed to sensitize players in the sector on legal adherence and the pathways to follow in arresting lawbreakers in the sector.

Source: Kenya News Agency

Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai has acknowledged the support of UNHCR in complementing government programmes and suggested crafting of policies to minimize conflicts arising from distribution of resources to host communities and the refugees.

The Governor spoke when he hosted UNHCR’s Head of Kakuma Sub-Office Nanduri Sateech at the County headquarters in Lodwar.

Their discussion centered on collaboration between the County Government and United Nations (UN) agencies as well as auctioning of the UN vehicles that is slated for Monday (today) in Kakuma.

He said, ‘As a County Government, we are appreciative of the many years of support from the United Nations. The presence of development partners should have positive implication to the community’s economic growth’.

The County boss said locals in Turkana have been hospitable to other communities and reiterated the need by the leadership of UNHCR to look into the conduct of refugees which he said was unbecoming.

‘Now we have integrated the refugees there should be
a behavioral change to reflect discipline to the host and not create chaos even on highways,’ said the Governor.

Lomorukai welcomed the move to auction the vehicles but insisted on fairness in prices now that it has been decided they be sold to locals who had no capacity to high stake prices for the UN vehicles.

On his part, Nanduri Sateech assured that the UNHCR would continue working with the County Government to strengthen partnerships that would be beneficial to the host community and the refugees.

He expressed optimism that the process of auctioning the vehicles will be undertaken smoothly.

Deputy County Secretary Joseph Nyang’a and County Executives David Erukudi (Trade), Peter Akono (Lands), Faith Aletea (Water), and Patrick Losike (Infrastructure) were in attendance.

County Chief of Staff Peter Loyapan, Fisheries Chief Officer Evans Lomodei.

Source: Kenya News Agency

The national government through the Ministry of water and irrigation has provided water pipes worth Sh. 10 million to Kiarutara/Mwago irrigation project of Gatanga Sub County, Murang’a.

The pipes will facilitate distribution of water to 12 villages in upper parts of Gatanga Sub County to promote irrigation farming.

When visiting the project over the weekend, Irrigation Principal Secretary Ephantus Kimotho lauded the project that was established in 2010 saying it has boosted food security in the area.

The water pipes, he noted, will replace those dilapidated and also extend the area covered by the project.

Kimotho asked the leadership of the project to install water meters so as to ensure the water is used prudently and for the specific purpose.

‘It’s a commendable project which has survived a myriad of challenges and the government is committed to support such projects across the country in efforts to boost irrigation farming.

‘I urge the leaders of this project to consider having meters to levy reasona
ble amounts so as to ensure farmers use the water prudently and enable the project to get some revenue to cater for cost of production,’ said Kimotho at Ragia village.

The project sits on 11.5 square kilometer area with a population of 11,000 people, and metering of the water dictates charges of Sh. 250 for 0-5 cubic meters and an extra cubic meter at a rate of Sh.30.

Currently, the project produces 1,300 cubic meters per day. In 2019 there was sedimentation of the water flow and through the government’s support the members received pipes to upgrade the project downwards.

The water which is tapped at Ragia and Kimakia rivers has enabled the members to grow avocado, tomatoes, upland arrow roots and keep dairy cows and pigs.

According to the chairman of the project Afro Ngaruiya, the management had installed some water meters however there were increased theft cases of the meters saying the crime was minimized by a pipe locator which helps detect illegal connections.

On his part, Gatanga MP Edward Muriu la
uded the project saying with the government support, the locals will increase their agricultural productivity.

Muriu called on the government to initiate more water projects in the sub county and complete those ongoing as an appreciation to locals for water drawn at Ndakaini dam and taken to Nairobi.

‘Gatanga people don’t benefit from the water at Ndakaini dam. The water is taken to Nairobi and its environment and we urge the government to consider implementing more projects locally to support our people,’ he stated.

Responding to Muriu’s grievances, Chief Executive Officer of Athi Water Development Works Agency Eng. Joseph Kamau said they are already connecting water for Gatanga residents through the main water pipe from Ndakaini dam at Kigoro water treatment plant, where 10 million liters will be produced daily to areas including Ndunyu Chege, Thika Greens, Githingiri and Ithanga

He added, ‘Another main water pipe will be tapped at Chomo area and its water be distributed to Chania, Mabae, Kigio and Kirw
ara areas. The Gathanji water pipe will also deliver water to Gatanga girls’ high school. This water will be drawn from Ndakaini dam,’

Kamau said that all the water connections will be done by Gatanga Water Company, where its Chairman Bishop Wanyoike confirmed that the provision of water pipes and help from the national government will be a big boost to do the last mile connectivity of water in Gatanga Sub County.

Source: Kenya News Agency

The Turkana South Rapid Response Team has successfully restored the water supply in Lorogon following a two-day disruption caused by a mechanical breakdown at the Centre’s main borehole.

The intervention relieved the local health facilities, security installations, and the community reliance on the borehole for their daily water needs.

South Sub-County Water Engineer, Judy Eregae, confirmed that the team replaced a faulty float switch and repaired the solar system breakdown identified during the borehole assessment.

‘The rapid response team was dispatched upon receiving a distress call from Lorogon Primary School administration, where the borehole is located,’ said Engineer Judy Eregae.

She emphasized the department’s commitment to utilizing rapid response strategies for efficient service delivery across Turkana South.

Led by Sub-County Solar Systems Specialist Iriama Peter, the rapid response team swiftly executed the intervention.

This repair coincides with the completion of a replacement borehole by
the Water Services Department to serve the area by the end of the 2023-2024 financial year.

Source: Kenya News Agency

Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jnr has urged local youths to adopt sports as a means of income to enhance their living standards.

Consequently, Mutula disclosed that his government will work closely with the Makueni County Assembly to ensure the county will team up with the youths to foster improved skill acquisition for self-sustenance.

‘We want to work closely with the county assembly and get a county team that youths will play to national level in an effort to improve their skills. We don’t want the talent to get lost here,’ said Mutula at UNOA Sports Ground in Wote town where he awarded several teams that won in various games played during the MKJ Supa Cup finals on Sunday.

He disclosed that following last year’s games, 5 youths were able to join teams spread across the country that enabled them to earn a living and will not engage in consuming illicit brews or sell bhang.

Last year’s games saw 5 youths join prisons and army teams, highlighting the importance of improving sports for youths to use their talen
ts for self-defense.

‘This is a very important sport. We are sure the youth will not engage in taking illicit brews or drug and substance abuse,’ noted the governor.

On his part, Makueni County Assembly Speaker Douglas Mbilu reiterated that it was important to have county teams in various games in order to improve the skills of the youths in the area. Furthermore, Mbilu noted that the youths will sharpen their skills when they play with other teams at national level while saying it was important to have a sports academy where youths can train in the county.

During the games that started on Saturday included soccer, handball, basketball and volleyball, the winning teams were awarded cups besides get a cash reward. In soccer Makueni Sub county team beat Kibwezi East 2-0 and as a result received Sh 100,000 and Sh 85,000 respectively.

The teams were selected to represent the county in Kenya Youth Inter-county Sports Association (KYISA) in Kilifi county included soccer, basketball, beach handball and beach vol
ley from 14th-21st April 2024.

Source: Kenya News Agency

Patients in Homa Bay County have called for speedy resolution to the ongoing medical workers’ boycott.

Among those who have been left affected is a 15-year-old girl suffering from a suspected heart ailment.

The form two girl identified as Josephine Atieno had been admitted at St Paul’s Mission Hospital in Homa Bay town but her condition has been worsening.

The medics at the Mission Hospital referred her to either Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital in Kisumu or Kenyatta National Hospital in Nairobi for further screening and specialized medication.

However, her father Naaman Aboge and mother Millicent Akinyi are stranded because medics in the referral hospitals are on strike.

Akinyi said her daughter became ill a few weeks ago when she was in school and was rushed to hospital.

‘My daughter did not have a history of ill health but she suddenly became unconscious,’ Akinyi said.

However, they are concerned that their daughter may not get medication due to financial challenges and medics’
strike.

Aboge said they have exhausted all their resources on their daughter’s medication at St Paul’s Mission Hospital.

‘We are financially challenged because we have already spent a lot of money to treat the girl. This is aggravated by the strike of doctors and clinical officers in the country,’ Aboge said.

He called on well-wishers to intervene to enable them access services from private health facilities.

‘I call on well-wishers to intervene and rescue my daughter,’ Aboge said.

Many financially challenged patients cannot afford health care from private health facilities.

Source: Kenya News Agency

County government has drilled a borehole to address the water issues faced by residents of Juluk and Methewan in Lodwar.

A long-awaited borehole estimated to yield is 20m3 is expected to address the persistent water access challenges for hundreds of residents of Juluk and Methewan in Kanamkemer ward, Turkana Central.

Chief Officer for Water Services, David Maraka, reiterated the department’s commitment to equipping the borehole and facilitating the channeling of water through the already existing pipeline network in the targeted areas.

The escalating demand for water in both Juluk and Methewan, driven by rapid population growth and urbanization, has intensified pressure on the existing infrastructure, notably Borehole Nine, earmarked for servicing the area.

Thus, ‘Now that we have confirmed availability of water, our immediate focus shifts to test pumping, quality assessments, and the eventual distribution of this vital resource to the residents,’ Chief Officer Maraka said.

Additionally, Maraka disclosed
that the water supply will also benefit the nearby Nabei community which has similarly grappled with water scarcity despite being within the Lodwar Municipality.

In the period leading to the current breakthrough, the area was served through delivery of water via water trucks. During the same period, the department conducted an assessment of the existing pipeline network for further extensions and unclogging.

‘As promised by CECM Faith Aletea, the new borehole is part of the permanent solution,’ Chief Officer Maraka insisted. Hence, with the new development, residents of Nabei, Methewan and Juluk are expected to get water from their taps in the next three weeks.

Source: Kenya News Agency

Residents of Wasimbete Ward in Suna West Constituency have a reason to smile after the National Government-Constituency Development Funds (NG-CDFs) commissioned the Assistant County Commissioner’s (ACC) office to enhance security.

Speaking during the commissioning of the office, Suna West Member of Parliament Peter Masara said that the NG-CDF initiative to establish the Assistant County Commissioner’s office was a necessity in ensuring government essential services were brought closer to the community.

Masara lauded the initiative describing the Sh3.2 million project as pivotal in reducing the distance residents traveled to access essential services such as birth certificate registration and national identification card (ID) processing in Migori town.

The legislator emphasised that in future, it was important to also establish a residential house for the ACC, alongside their offices to ensure their continuous presence and focusing more on their administrative duties.

Migori County Deputy Commissioner Ms.
Milka Kariuki emphasised the significance of the office saying it would aid in the developmental agenda of the government in providing security and other government services.

Kariuki also underscored the pivotal role of the office in combating issues such as illicit brews and the infiltration of hard drugs like cannabis from neighbouring Tanzania through the Sirare-Isebania border.

The administrator added that the established office of ACC would contribute to tackling vices such as rape cases and sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in Suna West Sub County.

The residents represented by Isaya Angwanga expressed their gratitude to the area Member of Parliament for working with the national government in championing their needs.

Angwanga said that the residents of Wasimbete Ward would work closely with the local administration in the fight against negative vices like illicit brew and drug abuse.

Source: Kenya News Agency

The Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport Kipchumba Murkomen has reiterated that excessive loss of life through road carnage at an average of 3,500 lives annually needs collective responsibility of all Kenyans.

He was speaking at The AIC Bible College in Narok town where he graced the installation of the new Bishop AIC Southern Area Bishop Rev. Nyikul and his Deputy Rev. Moses Oyoe into the house of Bishops.

Murkomen said adequate support to National Transport and Safety Authority and traffic police was key to fighting the menace.

Murkomen further said since independence, a lack of serious strategy to curb deaths is yet to be realized noting that road carnage was a national catastrophe that must not be blamed on his term in office.

The CS said motorists do not obey traffic rules thereby increasing the carnage adding that technological installation and instant fining shall soon be in place to serve as a deterrence.

The CS said a regulation currently at the Attorney General’s office and the National Pa
rliament in addition to real time mobile cameras fitted in all motor vehicles would help in accountability over accidents.

The CS sentiments were echoed by Bomet Senator Hillary Sigei, Narok Senator Ledama Kina and Mara Ward Member County Assembly Chepkwony Kipng’eno who were present at the occasion.

Source: Kenya News Agency