Day: September 14, 2024

Jomvu MP Badi Twalib has called for collaboration between Private and Public Health Practitioners to enhance access to Primary Health Care Services.

Speaking today during a meeting of the Private Sector Primary Care Network meeting in Mikindani Ward, the legislator lauded the invaluable contribution of the private medical practitioners in the sub-county.

The USAID-supported programme aims to support the private sector so that it can align with government policies and complement what the government does.

He said dedication and professionalism play a crucial role in ensuring the health and well-being of the community is taken care of.

‘In Jomvu, Private Health Care Facilities stand out in their commitment to providing quality healthcare services to my constituents. They are essential in bridging the gap between Public Healthcare Services and the needs of our growing population,’ he said.

He underscored the importance of collaborations between the Public and Private Sectors as vital to improving access to h
ealthcare services.

‘By leveraging the strengths of both sectors, Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) aim to address systematic challenges, enhance infrastructure, and ultimately improve health outcomes for all Kenyans,’ he explained.

Twalib further stated that it is essential to recognise the important role of primary healthcare networks in the healthcare system.

‘This network serves as the backbone of accessible and comprehensive healthcare for our communities. By fostering PPPs, we can enhance these networks, utilising resources and expertise from both sectors to improve service delivery, thus creating a more resilient health system that meets the needs of all residents.’

He lauded the Private Medical Practitioners for their contribution to society, especially during industrial actions by medics in public hospitals.

‘Instead of competing,’ he said, ‘let’s complement each other in giving out those services.’

On her part, Phyllis Kemunto Jomvu Sub-County Medical Health Officer noted that there has been
a myth of disconnect between the public and private sector, and regarding the national policy, they are trying to embrace PPPs.

Kemunto said they have a forum that brings all private practitioners together to collaborate to improve service delivery that will improve health outcomes in the community.

‘Through this, we will be able to have a well-coordinated primary health care network, which will assist us in referral systems and other infrastructural support,’ she stated.

Source: Kenya News Agency

Jomvu MP Badi Twalib has called for collaboration between Private and Public Health Practitioners to enhance access to Primary Health Care Services.

Speaking today during a meeting of the Private Sector Primary Care Network meeting in Mikindani Ward, the legislator lauded the invaluable contribution of the private medical practitioners in the sub-county.

The USAID-supported programme aims to support the private sector so that it can align with government policies and complement what the government does.

He said dedication and professionalism play a crucial role in ensuring the health and well-being of the community is taken care of.

‘In Jomvu, Private Health Care Facilities stand out in their commitment to providing quality healthcare services to my constituents. They are essential in bridging the gap between Public Healthcare Services and the needs of our growing population,’ he said.

He underscored the importance of collaborations between the Public and Private Sectors as vital to improving access to h
ealthcare services.

‘By leveraging the strengths of both sectors, Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) aim to address systematic challenges, enhance infrastructure, and ultimately improve health outcomes for all Kenyans,’ he explained.

Twalib further stated that it is essential to recognise the important role of primary healthcare networks in the healthcare system.

‘This network serves as the backbone of accessible and comprehensive healthcare for our communities. By fostering PPPs, we can enhance these networks, utilising resources and expertise from both sectors to improve service delivery, thus creating a more resilient health system that meets the needs of all residents.’

He lauded the Private Medical Practitioners for their contribution to society, especially during industrial actions by medics in public hospitals.

‘Instead of competing,’ he said, ‘let’s complement each other in giving out those services.’

On her part, Phyllis Kemunto Jomvu Sub-County Medical Health Officer noted that there has been
a myth of disconnect between the public and private sector, and regarding the national policy, they are trying to embrace PPPs.

Kemunto said they have a forum that brings all private practitioners together to collaborate to improve service delivery that will improve health outcomes in the community.

‘Through this, we will be able to have a well-coordinated primary health care network, which will assist us in referral systems and other infrastructural support,’ she stated.

Source: Kenya News Agency

The National Government has put in place plans to ensure construction of more dykes in flood-prone areas, in an effort to reclaim more land for agricultural activities.

Speaking in Trans Nzoia County while on an inspection tour of the dyke construction works along the River Sabwani in Kwanza, State Department for Irrigation Principal Secretary Ephantus Kimotho revealed that close to 4 kilometres of the works have been completed, with more than 1000 public farms being reclaimed in Marinda, Namanja, Amuka, and Bidii.

The PS revealed that close to Sh60 million has since been spent, adding that Sh30 million more has been set aside to complete the remaining two kilometres downstream this year.

‘The National Water Authority, mandated on behalf of the national government to undertake development of national public water works for water resource storage and flood control, has done a wonderful job. The flood control systems it has put in place to mitigate against the effects of floods and droughts need to be suppor
ted.

The 1000 farms which the authority has helped to reclaim in this region, which is the country’s food basket, have led to increased maize productivity by 30,000 bags,’ he said, adding that reclamation of more land parcels will greatly enhance food security.

The PS challenged the Authority to consider scaling up construction of more dykes and gabions upstream in an effort to mitigate more siltation along the riverbeds downstream, which has been singled out as a major cause of flooding.

The extent of works in the last Financial Year entailed the construction of a 500-meter earth dyke along the southern side of the River Sabwani, the construction of an 185-meter auxiliary dyke along the River Chemususu, the de-silting of the delta where the River Chemususu joins the River Sabwani dyke filling of 300 mm height onto the existing 1.1 km long dyke, the cutting of drainage channels on both sides of the dyke to relieve flow, and the construction of two cattle ramps.

The local community, led by Susan Naliaka, t
hanked the National Water Authority for the flood intervention mechanisms and requested for more dykes to be done along the river to cover a wider area.

‘We thank the government for the efforts put in place to mitigate floods in this region. It has given us room to practice farming like other Kenyans elsewhere. We can now plant maize, beans, and other crops, something which has never happened here. However, we request the completion of the dykes downstream, which will go a long way towards helping more families,’ she said.

River Sabwani has in the past been a thorn in the flesh for Namanjalala residents and the surrounding areas whenever there was heavy downpour.

In May 2024, for instance, three lives were lost and close to 50 families displaced in the region when the river broke its banks following an abnormal downpour in the country.

Accompanying the PS who later inspected Siyoi Muruny Dam in West Pokot County were Trans Nzoia County Commissioner Gideon Oyagi, Irrigation Secretary Eng. Vincent Kabuti, S
ecretary Administration Kipkemei Yatich, Director Land Reclamation Ian Thande, Chief Finance Officer Daniel Kihara, and a team from National Water led by Chairman CPA Symon Kimaru, Director Kipseng’eret Koros, and Ag. CEO, John Muhia, among other senior staff.

Source: Kenya News Agency

The National Government has put in place plans to ensure construction of more dykes in flood-prone areas, in an effort to reclaim more land for agricultural activities.

Speaking in Trans Nzoia County while on an inspection tour of the dyke construction works along the River Sabwani in Kwanza, State Department for Irrigation Principal Secretary Ephantus Kimotho revealed that close to 4 kilometres of the works have been completed, with more than 1000 public farms being reclaimed in Marinda, Namanja, Amuka, and Bidii.

The PS revealed that close to Sh60 million has since been spent, adding that Sh30 million more has been set aside to complete the remaining two kilometres downstream this year.

‘The National Water Authority, mandated on behalf of the national government to undertake development of national public water works for water resource storage and flood control, has done a wonderful job. The flood control systems it has put in place to mitigate against the effects of floods and droughts need to be suppor
ted.

The 1000 farms which the authority has helped to reclaim in this region, which is the country’s food basket, have led to increased maize productivity by 30,000 bags,’ he said, adding that reclamation of more land parcels will greatly enhance food security.

The PS challenged the Authority to consider scaling up construction of more dykes and gabions upstream in an effort to mitigate more siltation along the riverbeds downstream, which has been singled out as a major cause of flooding.

The extent of works in the last Financial Year entailed the construction of a 500-meter earth dyke along the southern side of the River Sabwani, the construction of an 185-meter auxiliary dyke along the River Chemususu, the de-silting of the delta where the River Chemususu joins the River Sabwani dyke filling of 300 mm height onto the existing 1.1 km long dyke, the cutting of drainage channels on both sides of the dyke to relieve flow, and the construction of two cattle ramps.

The local community, led by Susan Naliaka, t
hanked the National Water Authority for the flood intervention mechanisms and requested for more dykes to be done along the river to cover a wider area.

‘We thank the government for the efforts put in place to mitigate floods in this region. It has given us room to practice farming like other Kenyans elsewhere. We can now plant maize, beans, and other crops, something which has never happened here. However, we request the completion of the dykes downstream, which will go a long way towards helping more families,’ she said.

River Sabwani has in the past been a thorn in the flesh for Namanjalala residents and the surrounding areas whenever there was heavy downpour.

In May 2024, for instance, three lives were lost and close to 50 families displaced in the region when the river broke its banks following an abnormal downpour in the country.

Accompanying the PS who later inspected Siyoi Muruny Dam in West Pokot County were Trans Nzoia County Commissioner Gideon Oyagi, Irrigation Secretary Eng. Vincent Kabuti, S
ecretary Administration Kipkemei Yatich, Director Land Reclamation Ian Thande, Chief Finance Officer Daniel Kihara, and a team from National Water led by Chairman CPA Symon Kimaru, Director Kipseng’eret Koros, and Ag. CEO, John Muhia, among other senior staff.

Source: Kenya News Agency

The National Government has put in place plans to ensure construction of more dykes in flood-prone areas, in an effort to reclaim more land for agricultural activities.

Speaking in Trans Nzoia County while on an inspection tour of the dyke construction works along the River Sabwani in Kwanza, State Department for Irrigation Principal Secretary Ephantus Kimotho revealed that close to 4 kilometres of the works have been completed, with more than 1000 public farms being reclaimed in Marinda, Namanja, Amuka, and Bidii.

The PS revealed that close to Sh60 million has since been spent, adding that Sh30 million more has been set aside to complete the remaining two kilometres downstream this year.

‘The National Water Authority, mandated on behalf of the national government to undertake development of national public water works for water resource storage and flood control, has done a wonderful job. The flood control systems it has put in place to mitigate against the effects of floods and droughts need to be suppor
ted.

The 1000 farms which the authority has helped to reclaim in this region, which is the country’s food basket, have led to increased maize productivity by 30,000 bags,’ he said, adding that reclamation of more land parcels will greatly enhance food security.

The PS challenged the Authority to consider scaling up construction of more dykes and gabions upstream in an effort to mitigate more siltation along the riverbeds downstream, which has been singled out as a major cause of flooding.

The extent of works in the last Financial Year entailed the construction of a 500-meter earth dyke along the southern side of the River Sabwani, the construction of an 185-meter auxiliary dyke along the River Chemususu, the de-silting of the delta where the River Chemususu joins the River Sabwani dyke filling of 300 mm height onto the existing 1.1 km long dyke, the cutting of drainage channels on both sides of the dyke to relieve flow, and the construction of two cattle ramps.

The local community, led by Susan Naliaka, t
hanked the National Water Authority for the flood intervention mechanisms and requested for more dykes to be done along the river to cover a wider area.

‘We thank the government for the efforts put in place to mitigate floods in this region. It has given us room to practice farming like other Kenyans elsewhere. We can now plant maize, beans, and other crops, something which has never happened here. However, we request the completion of the dykes downstream, which will go a long way towards helping more families,’ she said.

River Sabwani has in the past been a thorn in the flesh for Namanjalala residents and the surrounding areas whenever there was heavy downpour.

In May 2024, for instance, three lives were lost and close to 50 families displaced in the region when the river broke its banks following an abnormal downpour in the country.

Accompanying the PS who later inspected Siyoi Muruny Dam in West Pokot County were Trans Nzoia County Commissioner Gideon Oyagi, Irrigation Secretary Eng. Vincent Kabuti, S
ecretary Administration Kipkemei Yatich, Director Land Reclamation Ian Thande, Chief Finance Officer Daniel Kihara, and a team from National Water led by Chairman CPA Symon Kimaru, Director Kipseng’eret Koros, and Ag. CEO, John Muhia, among other senior staff.

Source: Kenya News Agency

EdTech East Africa has held its 3rd Summit in partnership with the government and private sector with the aim of enhancing cutting-edge technologies in classrooms and fostering a culture of continuous improvement in the education sector.

The key highlights at the two-day summit held on September 13th-14th, 2024, include the introduction of digital learning platforms that broaden access to quality education, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven tools, and the development of mobile applications that extend education resources to remote communities.

Speaking at the event, Basic Education Principal Secretary and Chairperson of the Education and Assessments Management Committee, Dr. Belio Kipsang, said that the government recognises the transformative potential of education technology in shaping the future of youths and the nation.

‘We are committed to supporting organisations like EdTech East Africa that are driving innovation in education by ensuring that every learner, regardless of their b
ackground, has access to the tools and skills they need to thrive in the digital age,’ he stated.

In a speech read on his behalf by the Deputy Director of Education in charge of Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT4E) Francis Karanja, the PS noted that the country is at the critical juncture in the efforts to modernise education.

Dr. Kipsang conferred on how the National Education Management Information System (NEMIS) and the Kenya Education Management Information System (KEMIS) are laying the groundwork for a more data-driven, equitable, and accountable education system and also explored how the systems align with the National Education Sector Strategic Plan (NESSP) 2023-2027, a blueprint for the future of Kenyan education.

He termed KEMIS as an essential pillar of Kenya’s digital transformation in education, as it allows for real-time data collection on student enrolment and attendance and offers an unprecedented level of visibility into the education landscape in addressing disparities in res
ource allocation and improving the overall quality of education.

While NEMIS serves as a backbone for data collection, currently it supports the digital registration of learners in the learning institutions by ensuring transparency in the distribution of resources such as Free Primary Education (FPE) and Free Day Secondary Education (FDSE) funds, enabling the government to allocate resources more efficiently.

The PS noted key priorities under the NESSP 2023-2027 include an expansion of NEMIS to incorporate learners from preprimary, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), and higher education institutions in order to broaden understanding of the entire education ecosystem and ensure that all sectors are adequately supported.

‘As the system has been extended, challenges must also be addressed, including system maintenance, security, and capacity constraints. A robust legal and institutional framework is underway to protect the integrity of these systems,’ he said.

‘The NESSP highlights the i
mportance of integrating Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting (MER) mechanisms and providing equitable access to quality education across all education programmes,’ said PS, adding that doing so simplifies for the government to assess the impact of various initiatives and make adjustments where necessary.

Additionally, he said that, improvement in resource allocation, enhancement of governance, and guaranteeing that no learner is left behind will strengthen data systems and ensure they are integrated into every aspect of education management.

‘As we look to the future, we must remain committed to the principles outlined in the NESSP 2023-2027: equity, inclusivity, and excellence. By fully integrating KEMIS into our education framework, we can ensure that every decision we make is informed by data, and every action we take brings us closer to a more equitable and prosperous future for Kenya’s learners,’ said PS.

He urged stakeholders to work together to build an education system that serves every child in
every region with the resources needed and opportunities deserved. By embracing technology and data-driven strategies, we are laying the groundwork for a brighter and more equitable future.

EdTech CEO Jennifer Cotter noted that the first Nairobi EdTech Meetup has evolved into a thriving community and the formation of EdTech East Africa has led to collective achievements and the harnessing of the power of collaboration with the government of Kenya, the private sector, and educational institutions.

‘Since 2014, we have supported over 5,000 people to gather in over 60 gatherings, creating spaces for EdTech innovators and enablers to learn, share, and collaborate. In partnership with the MasterCard Foundation, it gives a platform for entrepreneurs, innovative practitioners, and policymakers to share their stories of what’s working and discourse our collective vision for the future,’ she said.

Source: Kenya News Agency

EdTech East Africa has held its 3rd Summit in partnership with the government and private sector with the aim of enhancing cutting-edge technologies in classrooms and fostering a culture of continuous improvement in the education sector.

The key highlights at the two-day summit held on September 13th-14th, 2024, include the introduction of digital learning platforms that broaden access to quality education, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven tools, and the development of mobile applications that extend education resources to remote communities.

Speaking at the event, Basic Education Principal Secretary and Chairperson of the Education and Assessments Management Committee, Dr. Belio Kipsang, said that the government recognises the transformative potential of education technology in shaping the future of youths and the nation.

‘We are committed to supporting organisations like EdTech East Africa that are driving innovation in education by ensuring that every learner, regardless of their b
ackground, has access to the tools and skills they need to thrive in the digital age,’ he stated.

In a speech read on his behalf by the Deputy Director of Education in charge of Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT4E) Francis Karanja, the PS noted that the country is at the critical juncture in the efforts to modernise education.

Dr. Kipsang conferred on how the National Education Management Information System (NEMIS) and the Kenya Education Management Information System (KEMIS) are laying the groundwork for a more data-driven, equitable, and accountable education system and also explored how the systems align with the National Education Sector Strategic Plan (NESSP) 2023-2027, a blueprint for the future of Kenyan education.

He termed KEMIS as an essential pillar of Kenya’s digital transformation in education, as it allows for real-time data collection on student enrolment and attendance and offers an unprecedented level of visibility into the education landscape in addressing disparities in res
ource allocation and improving the overall quality of education.

While NEMIS serves as a backbone for data collection, currently it supports the digital registration of learners in the learning institutions by ensuring transparency in the distribution of resources such as Free Primary Education (FPE) and Free Day Secondary Education (FDSE) funds, enabling the government to allocate resources more efficiently.

The PS noted key priorities under the NESSP 2023-2027 include an expansion of NEMIS to incorporate learners from preprimary, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), and higher education institutions in order to broaden understanding of the entire education ecosystem and ensure that all sectors are adequately supported.

‘As the system has been extended, challenges must also be addressed, including system maintenance, security, and capacity constraints. A robust legal and institutional framework is underway to protect the integrity of these systems,’ he said.

‘The NESSP highlights the i
mportance of integrating Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting (MER) mechanisms and providing equitable access to quality education across all education programmes,’ said PS, adding that doing so simplifies for the government to assess the impact of various initiatives and make adjustments where necessary.

Additionally, he said that, improvement in resource allocation, enhancement of governance, and guaranteeing that no learner is left behind will strengthen data systems and ensure they are integrated into every aspect of education management.

‘As we look to the future, we must remain committed to the principles outlined in the NESSP 2023-2027: equity, inclusivity, and excellence. By fully integrating KEMIS into our education framework, we can ensure that every decision we make is informed by data, and every action we take brings us closer to a more equitable and prosperous future for Kenya’s learners,’ said PS.

He urged stakeholders to work together to build an education system that serves every child in
every region with the resources needed and opportunities deserved. By embracing technology and data-driven strategies, we are laying the groundwork for a brighter and more equitable future.

EdTech CEO Jennifer Cotter noted that the first Nairobi EdTech Meetup has evolved into a thriving community and the formation of EdTech East Africa has led to collective achievements and the harnessing of the power of collaboration with the government of Kenya, the private sector, and educational institutions.

‘Since 2014, we have supported over 5,000 people to gather in over 60 gatherings, creating spaces for EdTech innovators and enablers to learn, share, and collaborate. In partnership with the MasterCard Foundation, it gives a platform for entrepreneurs, innovative practitioners, and policymakers to share their stories of what’s working and discourse our collective vision for the future,’ she said.

Source: Kenya News Agency

EdTech East Africa has held its 3rd Summit in partnership with the government and private sector with the aim of enhancing cutting-edge technologies in classrooms and fostering a culture of continuous improvement in the education sector.

The key highlights at the two-day summit held on September 13th-14th, 2024, include the introduction of digital learning platforms that broaden access to quality education, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven tools, and the development of mobile applications that extend education resources to remote communities.

Speaking at the event, Basic Education Principal Secretary and Chairperson of the Education and Assessments Management Committee, Dr. Belio Kipsang, said that the government recognises the transformative potential of education technology in shaping the future of youths and the nation.

‘We are committed to supporting organisations like EdTech East Africa that are driving innovation in education by ensuring that every learner, regardless of their b
ackground, has access to the tools and skills they need to thrive in the digital age,’ he stated.

In a speech read on his behalf by the Deputy Director of Education in charge of Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT4E) Francis Karanja, the PS noted that the country is at the critical juncture in the efforts to modernise education.

Dr. Kipsang conferred on how the National Education Management Information System (NEMIS) and the Kenya Education Management Information System (KEMIS) are laying the groundwork for a more data-driven, equitable, and accountable education system and also explored how the systems align with the National Education Sector Strategic Plan (NESSP) 2023-2027, a blueprint for the future of Kenyan education.

He termed KEMIS as an essential pillar of Kenya’s digital transformation in education, as it allows for real-time data collection on student enrolment and attendance and offers an unprecedented level of visibility into the education landscape in addressing disparities in res
ource allocation and improving the overall quality of education.

While NEMIS serves as a backbone for data collection, currently it supports the digital registration of learners in the learning institutions by ensuring transparency in the distribution of resources such as Free Primary Education (FPE) and Free Day Secondary Education (FDSE) funds, enabling the government to allocate resources more efficiently.

The PS noted key priorities under the NESSP 2023-2027 include an expansion of NEMIS to incorporate learners from preprimary, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), and higher education institutions in order to broaden understanding of the entire education ecosystem and ensure that all sectors are adequately supported.

‘As the system has been extended, challenges must also be addressed, including system maintenance, security, and capacity constraints. A robust legal and institutional framework is underway to protect the integrity of these systems,’ he said.

‘The NESSP highlights the i
mportance of integrating Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting (MER) mechanisms and providing equitable access to quality education across all education programmes,’ said PS, adding that doing so simplifies for the government to assess the impact of various initiatives and make adjustments where necessary.

Additionally, he said that, improvement in resource allocation, enhancement of governance, and guaranteeing that no learner is left behind will strengthen data systems and ensure they are integrated into every aspect of education management.

‘As we look to the future, we must remain committed to the principles outlined in the NESSP 2023-2027: equity, inclusivity, and excellence. By fully integrating KEMIS into our education framework, we can ensure that every decision we make is informed by data, and every action we take brings us closer to a more equitable and prosperous future for Kenya’s learners,’ said PS.

He urged stakeholders to work together to build an education system that serves every child in
every region with the resources needed and opportunities deserved. By embracing technology and data-driven strategies, we are laying the groundwork for a brighter and more equitable future.

EdTech CEO Jennifer Cotter noted that the first Nairobi EdTech Meetup has evolved into a thriving community and the formation of EdTech East Africa has led to collective achievements and the harnessing of the power of collaboration with the government of Kenya, the private sector, and educational institutions.

‘Since 2014, we have supported over 5,000 people to gather in over 60 gatherings, creating spaces for EdTech innovators and enablers to learn, share, and collaborate. In partnership with the MasterCard Foundation, it gives a platform for entrepreneurs, innovative practitioners, and policymakers to share their stories of what’s working and discourse our collective vision for the future,’ she said.

Source: Kenya News Agency