Matasia to host free medical camp offering surgeries and health screenings

Amy Moyi3 months ago3 months ago03 mins

Residents of Matasia and the wider Kajiado North Sub-county are set to benefit from a free medical camp scheduled for Saturday, August 8, offering a wide range of healthcare services aimed at improving access to treatment and early disease detection. The one-day outreach that will be held at Matasia Health Centre, is a joint initiative between the Kajiado County Government and Kingdom Mysteries International (KMI), a United States-based humanitarian organization. Patients will receive free essential health services including medication, dental care, cataract surgeries, minor surgical procedures, circumcision, prostate cancer screening, cervical cancer screening and referrals for patients requiring specialised treatment. Surgical procedures such as removal of lipomas, keloids and correction of certain congenital conditions including fused fingers will also be provided. Speaking ahead of the event, Reverend Ruth Ngigi of Kingdom Mysteries International said the medical camp is intended to ease the financial burden that many families face when seeking healthcare while ensuring that vulnerable members of the community receive timely treatment. “We are coming to help our people. I know the times are difficult and a little something can go a long way. Tell a friend, invite your neighbour especially if they have lipomas which are prevalent in Kajiado county. We will remove them free of charge, ” said Reverend Ngigi. County officials have welcomed the partnership describing it as an important step in expanding healthcare access through collaboration with development partners. Kajiado County Chief Officer for Public Health and Sanitation Eddie Kimani said the county government is committed to working with organisations that complement public health services and bring care closer to communities. He encouraged residents from across Kajiado North experiencing any health concerns to take advantage of the opportunity to receive free medical check-ups and treatment. Kimani also appealed to men to attend the camp noting that many delay seeking medical attention until illnesses become advanced. He said the outreach will provide prostate cancer screening alongside other medical services. “Men do not seek medical services as much as they should. This is an opportunity for them to be tested for prostate cancer and other medical conditions,” said Kimani. Registration at the medical camp will begin at 6am and close at 3pm on a first-come basis. Patients who require advanced care will be referred through an established referral system helping ensure continuity of treatment after the event. Kingdom Mysteries International (KMI), which is organising the event in collaboration with the Kajiado County Government, is a Washington State-based Christian humanitarian organisation that conducts free medical missions, community empowerment programmes, education initiatives and humanitarian projects in underserved communities across East Africa and the United States.

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Rampant strikes and destruction of property in high schools

Amy Moyi5 months ago14 mins

By Teacher Alice Likimani IntroductionIn recent years, there has been an alarming increase in student strikes, unrest, and the destruction of school property in many high schools across the country. These incidents have negatively affected learning, led to loss of lives and property, and disrupted the smooth running of educational institutions. As a teacher, I have observed several factors that contribute to this unfortunate trend. Causes of student strikes and school arsonAbsent parenthoodMany parents have delegated their parental responsibilities to teachers, domestic workers and other caregivers. As a result, some children grow up without proper guidance, discipline, and moral values. Lack of parental involvement makes it difficult for students to develop respect for authority and responsibility. Irresponsible behaviour among learnersSome students are unwilling to take responsibility for their actions. They often blame teachers, school administration, or the system for challenges that could be solved through dialogue and personal accountability. Non-correctable childrenThere is an increasing number of learners who are unwilling to accept correction. Any attempt to guide or discipline them is viewed as harassment or victimization, leading to hostility towards teachers and school rules. Parents who do not want their children to workSome children grow up in homes where domestic workers perform all domestic duties. Consequently, these learners are not accustomed to responsibility, hard work, or following instructions. They may perceive school routines and duties as punishment rather than character-building exercises. Entitlement mentalitySome learners have been raised believing that they must always get what they want. When their demands are not met immediately, they resort to protests, violence, or destruction of property to force school administrations to comply. Undermining teachers’ authorityIn some cases, learners from affluent backgrounds feel superior to their teachers due to their family’s financial status. Such students may openly challenge authority and refuse to respect school regulations, making discipline difficult to enforce. National culture of demonstrations and destructionStudents often imitate what they observe in society. When national grievances are frequently expressed through demonstrations, strikes, and destruction of property, young people may perceive such actions as acceptable methods of resolving conflicts. Drug and substance abuseThe use of drugs and other substances among students contributes significantly to indiscipline. Drug abuse impairs judgment, promotes aggression, and increases the likelihood of violent behaviour, including participation in strikes and arson. Mitigation measures Conclusion The increasing cases of strikes and destruction of property in schools are a matter of great concern. While students must be held accountable for their actions, parents, teachers, communities, and government institutions all have a role to play in addressing the root causes. Through collective effort, proper guidance, and effective discipline, schools can once again become safe environments that promote learning, character development, and responsible citizenship. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this editorial are those of the author and do not reflect the views, editorial position or policies of Elveza Media.

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Technology and trust are key to unlocking Africa’s cross-border trade, says Ecobank executive

adminelveza10 months ago03 mins

By Amy Moyi Africa’s ability to scale cross-border trade depends on rebuilding trust between buyers, sellers, and financiers, according to Cyprian Rono, Director of Corporate and Investment Banking for Kenya and East Africa at Ecobank. In a statement on the future of African trade finance, Rono said many businesses remain hesitant to expand beyond familiar markets due to weak information on potential partners, fragmented regulatory regimes and documents that are difficult to verify across borders. “Traders are expected to honour contracts, deliver goods as promised, pay on time, and present authentic documentation yet they often lack reliable information on who they are dealing with. This heightens the risk of fraud, non-payment, and disputes ultimately discouraging businesses from venturing into new markets,” said Rono. However, Rono has noted that technology is increasingly bridging this trust gap. Artificial intelligence is allowing lenders to assess risk using alternative data, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) without formal credit histories. At the same time, distributed ledger technologies are making shipping documents, certificates of origin and inspection reports tamper-proof while supply-chain visibility tools enable real-time tracking of goods. Rono has pointed to Ecobank’s Single Trade Hub as an example of how digital infrastructure can support safer trade. The platform provides a secure digital marketplace where buyers and sellers can transact with confidence even without prior relationships. “Our Trade Intelligence suite gives customers instant access to market data drawn from customs information and product classification tools across 133 countries. It has features such as import and export market classification, over 25,000 market and industry reports, customs duty calculators and universal customs codes which businesses can use to better assess opportunities, reduce compliance risks and optimise their supply chains,” added Rono. In addition, Rono has cited that beyond financing, SMEs also require advisory services, compliance guidance and secure platforms for partner verification and payment settlement. This is because many operate in cash-intensive cycles that require upfront payments to suppliers and logistics providers, making non-financial support just as critical as credit. He has emphasized the importance of trade fairs, industry forums and partnerships with chambers of commerce also play a role in strengthening trust networks in helping enterprises establish relationships that make cross-border trade viable. Looking ahead, Rono has stressed that Africa’s trade ambitions particularly under the African Continental Free Trade Area (African Continental Free Trade Area) depends on deeper financial integration. “Africa’s path toward meaningful trade integration begins with financial integration. The promise of AfCFTA will only be realised when enterprises can trade with confidence knowing payments will be honoured, partners verified and disputes resolved.” According to Rono, Africa must reduce reliance on external actors to finance its trade by strengthening African-led financial institutions and systems. “Africa’s economic transformation depends on trusted, digitally enabled African banks that understand the continent’s unique risks and opportunities. By building an African-led trade finance ecosystem, we can unlock liquidity, empower SMEs, retain more value locally, and accelerate Africa’s trade revolution driven by African institutions, African systems, and African ambition,” added Rono.

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Impeached deputy president Gachagua changes stance and heaps praise on the media

adminelveza2 years ago2 years ago02 mins

By Teresa Magenya Impeached deputy president Rigathi Gachagua has publicly praised the media during his recent impeachment session in the national assembly despite having been a vocal critic of journalists in the past. Gachagua’s admiration for the media comes after a series of controversies that have led to increased scrutiny of his office. Gachagua had previously condemned media outlets on several occasions for perceived bias and misinformation. During the 40 the graduation at the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology(JKUAT), Gachagua criticized the media got their portrayal of the political class. “For a long time the media have criticized the political class and it is high time they are also be held accountable for the things they write.” said Gachagua. During his trial at the national assembly, Gachagua used excerpts from the media as part of his defense expressing his appreciation for the role of journalists in shaping public discourse. “The media serves as the backbone of democracy. In these challenging times, it is crucial for us to recognize the media’s role in informing the public and fostering dialogue.” Gachagua said during an adress to the nation through the media. Allegations of tribalism, corruption, misuse of public funds, and unethical conduct have surfaced, prompting a motion for his removal from office to be tabled in parliament and senate. While Gachagua’s praise for the media may be an attempt to mitigate the fallout from the impeachment proceedings, it also reflects a broader challenge faced by many leaders in Kenya. As public scrutiny intensifies, the relationship between politicians and the press remains complex, often marked by tension and distrust. As the political climate continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether Gachagua’s new found appreciation for the media will translate into a more constructive relationship moving forward or if it will be seen as a mere tactical maneuver in the face of impending political consequences.

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500 billion shillings nuclear power plant for Kenya

adminelveza8 years ago2 years ago08 mins

A public participation forum on Nuclear Regulatory Bill 2018 was held at Nkoroi Catholic Church on 22 March 2019. The event was hosted by the National Assembly Energy Committee and led by the chairman Nakuru Town East MP, David Gikaria. The bill went through the first reading on December 4, 2018 and thereafter committed for public participation. Concerns were immediately raised by the members of the public who had not read or even seen the draft bill prior to the forum. The majority felt they needed the draft bill at least 7 days prior to the forum to be able to scrutinize it fully. The Nakuru Town East MP told the members of the public, that the bills are usually in the national assembly website for downloading. MP Gikaria however accepted, there was a failure in providing Kajiado North residents with the draft bill earlier enough. He apologized for the late issuance of the document and informed the members of the public that they have between 14 to 45 days to send their input to the parliamentary energy committee for consideration via the following email address: clerk@parliament.go.ke The objective and purpose of the Act as drafted in the bill is To regulate the safe, secure and peaceful development, production, possession, use storage, transport, transfer, disposal or handling of nuclear and radioactive materials, activities and facilities and other apparatus generating ionizing radiation. To protect persons, property and the environment in relation to nuclear and radioactive material, activities and facilities and other apparatus generating ionizing radiation. The bill proposes the establishment of a commission to be known as the Kenya Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and therefore replacing the Radiation Protection Board. The commission shall be allocated money by parliament for the purpose of the commission. The commission will also raise funds through loans, grants, or from donations. A system of control over radiation sources shall be established by the commission to ensure they are safely managed and safeguarded during and at the end of their useful lives. The commission shall be mandated to vet and issues licenses to any entity wishing to set up a nuclear facility in the country. Decommission Fund to Be Established A Decommissioning Fund administered by the commission shall be established to cater for decommissioning facilities that are either old or no longer functional. The fund will also be used to cater for the management of radioactive waste and spent fuel. The Commission shall issue an authorization to any person wishing to import or export nuclear materials or nuclear-related equipment and technology. All nuclear material shall be used exclusively for peaceful purposes. Manufacture of nuclear weapons and other nuclear-related explosive devices shall not be allowed in Kenya. Benefits of a Nuclear Power Plant The CEO of Kenya Nuclear Electricity Board Eng. Collins Juma said the idea behind building the nuclear power plant in Kenya is to reduce power cost. The Engineer confirmed uranium will be used to generate fuel to power the proposed nuclear power plant. He further claimed that South Korea is manufacturing goods because of cheap electricity produced through nuclear energy. He concluded by saying that the probability of a nuclear accident is very minimal and can be very dangerous if it happens. More Civic Education Needed Mr. Macharia who is a resident of Ongata Rongai said, civic education is needed to raise awareness and understanding of such bills. He proposed for such bills committed to public participation, be given to the members of the public early enough and not on the day of the forum. Former Kajiado Senator Paul Mositet asked how the commission intends to fund the proposed power plant? He claimed Kenya is not capable of managing a nuclear plant considering the high levels of corruption. The former Senator also claimed that South Africa has abandoned plans to increase nuclear plants from 2 to 9. He concluded by challenging local engineers to innovate and develop new cleaner energy sources in order to address our energy needs. Irene Kamau (Director – ACTION NOW KENYA) Said “there is very minimal awareness of the nuclear energy amongst the members of the public. There are safety concerns amongst members of the public in case of nuclear disaster, considering the high cases of negligence in Kenya. The project is a misplaced priority considering the high levels of poverty and even hunger in some parts of the country.” Mr. Gerrshon Kiara who is former PS said “Negativity, fear, and politicization of every development agenda is our downside as a country. Kenya should proceed and develop a nuclear power plant. If we borrow the best practices in the world, there is nothing to worry about. Corruption should not deter us from pursuing our development agenda as a country. We must fight corruption and at the same time pursue development.” Bishop Henry Omae said “Proper civic education needed a way in advance. Documents to be discussed should be shared with the members of the public at least 7 days in advance. The speed at which we are being rushed to pass the bill raises fears of possible brokerage. How will mining or importation of Uranium be handled? Kenyans must be convinced and given assurance for their safety.” Sophia Katampoi who is a resident of Oloolua ward and environmentalist said “Nuclear Energy is not bad but let us think about the policy before implementing. The energy parliamentary committee is pushing the bill a bit too fast raising concerns of the motive behind it.” Environmentalist Chris Muriithi said members of the public require more time to go through the bill. Germany is currently in the process of shutting down its nuclear power plants. Nuclear energy is good, but we should wait until 2050 considering our high levels of corruption. Shadrack Okenyu who is an opinion leader and resident of Ngong said “Nuclear energy is not a priority in Kenya. We should focus on other priorities such as feeding our population. Before proceeding with nuclear energy, we must be convinced that Kenya has exhausted…

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