KNUT-GICHIRA.
JANE MUGAMBI 28TH MARCH 2012.
Kenya National Union of Teachers Kirinyaga Secretary General Harrison
Gichira has condemned politicians behind the scrapping of 8-4-4
education system.
He said that he reads some malice in the scrapping saying that they
(stakeholders) are the only ones who can explain the usefulness of it.
He said that the new system that is being proposed cannot be achieved
saying that if deployment of teachers has never been done by the
government will it be able to give the needed resources to fund it.
“The new education system being proposed cannot work since our
government is very ignorant in the education matters, will it be able
to fund the 2-6-6-3 system if at all it has never employed the number
of teachers who are needed “he asked.
He said that 2-6-6-3 system is not supposed to confuse people saying
that it is very late to start a new system to children who have
already tasted 8-4-4 saying that they are going to get confused.
Gichira also cited out that boardroom meetings by a section of
politicians with veted interests should not be reached into a
conclusion before educationists have been consulted saying that
education in Kenya is being destroyed.
He said that Kenyans need a system that is in line with the training
institutions that are in the country saying that changing of education
curriculum will affect very many teachers since they will be needed to
go back to school to enable them be conversant with whatever they will
be teaching.
On the election date he said that the proposed March date, will
interfere with the learning of schools saying that an off cannot
compensate for the lost time and day in learning.
He also added that education ministry is not a damping ground for
rejects saying that the appointment of Mutula to the ministry is a
disgrace.
The KNUT secretary General added that the promotion was not done on merit.
"You cannot get a lawyer run the ministry whereas there are very many
teachers who are in parliament"He asked.
Ends…
0723321326
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
POVERTY ERADICATION.
POVERTY ERADICATION.
JANE MUGAMBI 23RD MARCH 2012.
TechnoServe, a local non governmental organization (NGO) has launched a youth mentorship training exercise in Kirinyaga County aimed at addressing endemic poverty and unemployment rates among young people.
Through its flagship project Strengthening Rural Youth Development through Enterprise (STRIDE) TechnoServe also plans to avail exciting aftercare programs to its trainees through career fairs, job career fairs and existing TechnoServe agribusiness initiatives.
According to Jacinta Muriithi trainer with the NGO which launched its activities in Kenya in late November 2011, elaborate plans are underway to ensure that many people are recruited in time for an in house workshops scheduled later in June this year.
TechnoServe which is an affiliate partner with MasterCard will also help equip life skills in independent living, personal finance, career skills entrepreneurship and appreciating of farming as a business.
Ms Muriithi added that the organization will also partner with relevant stakeholders and Government Ministries in ensuring the programs success in empowering the youth in wealth creation in the county.
“The objective of TechnoServe is to help mentor the youth in implementation of what they have been trained on” said the program trainer.
“We also hope to open up linkages in business outsourcing for the youth in agriculture and the IT sector which we believe will go a long way in uplifting the standards of their living”
Ms Muriithi, while emphasizing the fact that they were not extending any funding to existing youth organizations at the moment, added that the program will be a priceless opportunity for the beneficiaries as it will enable them in identifying available avenues in wealth creation.
TechnoServe has also launched STRIDE programs in Bomet County in South Rift and parts of Nyeri and is planning to cover all counties within the country.
ends...
0723321326
JANE MUGAMBI 23RD MARCH 2012.
TechnoServe, a local non governmental organization (NGO) has launched a youth mentorship training exercise in Kirinyaga County aimed at addressing endemic poverty and unemployment rates among young people.
Through its flagship project Strengthening Rural Youth Development through Enterprise (STRIDE) TechnoServe also plans to avail exciting aftercare programs to its trainees through career fairs, job career fairs and existing TechnoServe agribusiness initiatives.
According to Jacinta Muriithi trainer with the NGO which launched its activities in Kenya in late November 2011, elaborate plans are underway to ensure that many people are recruited in time for an in house workshops scheduled later in June this year.
TechnoServe which is an affiliate partner with MasterCard will also help equip life skills in independent living, personal finance, career skills entrepreneurship and appreciating of farming as a business.
Ms Muriithi added that the organization will also partner with relevant stakeholders and Government Ministries in ensuring the programs success in empowering the youth in wealth creation in the county.
“The objective of TechnoServe is to help mentor the youth in implementation of what they have been trained on” said the program trainer.
“We also hope to open up linkages in business outsourcing for the youth in agriculture and the IT sector which we believe will go a long way in uplifting the standards of their living”
Ms Muriithi, while emphasizing the fact that they were not extending any funding to existing youth organizations at the moment, added that the program will be a priceless opportunity for the beneficiaries as it will enable them in identifying available avenues in wealth creation.
TechnoServe has also launched STRIDE programs in Bomet County in South Rift and parts of Nyeri and is planning to cover all counties within the country.
ends...
0723321326
WEALTH CREATION.
WEALTH CREATION.
JANE MUGAMBI 23RD MARCH 2012.
The Central Credit Officer of Youth Enterprise Development Fund James Wanjohi Kimotho has urged loan beneficiaries to invest in long term ventures that will help boost them in many years to come.
Mr. Kimathi who was speaking in Kerugoya added that many youth groups fail to reap maximum benefits from funds availed to them by the government by investing in unviable enterprises.
“Every individual planning to start an investment needs to check the net worth of his business” said Kimathi.
“Similarly such an undertaking must be a gainful endeavor which will help the investor reap benefits even in years to come.”
Last week a total of sh 625,000 was disbursed to seven youth self help groups and individuals in Kirinyaga Central.
However out of those who had applied for the loans seven groups did not meet the requirements set by YEDF board and hence were advised to reapply.
The officer also advised applicants who had failed to qualify for the YEDF loans to reapply after complying with relevant conditions.
He said his office will ensure successful applicants will have their funds processed within the next three weeks.
YEDF in partnership with Amiran (K) Limited has also launched a project to support young farmers acquire green houses in order to open agricultural opportunities in Kenya.
The partnership is also aims to help youth groups acquire Amiran Farmer’s Kit that includes agrochemicals, fertilizers, drip irrigation system and seeds worth sh. 358,344.
ENDS..
0723321326
JANE MUGAMBI 23RD MARCH 2012.
The Central Credit Officer of Youth Enterprise Development Fund James Wanjohi Kimotho has urged loan beneficiaries to invest in long term ventures that will help boost them in many years to come.
Mr. Kimathi who was speaking in Kerugoya added that many youth groups fail to reap maximum benefits from funds availed to them by the government by investing in unviable enterprises.
“Every individual planning to start an investment needs to check the net worth of his business” said Kimathi.
“Similarly such an undertaking must be a gainful endeavor which will help the investor reap benefits even in years to come.”
Last week a total of sh 625,000 was disbursed to seven youth self help groups and individuals in Kirinyaga Central.
However out of those who had applied for the loans seven groups did not meet the requirements set by YEDF board and hence were advised to reapply.
The officer also advised applicants who had failed to qualify for the YEDF loans to reapply after complying with relevant conditions.
He said his office will ensure successful applicants will have their funds processed within the next three weeks.
YEDF in partnership with Amiran (K) Limited has also launched a project to support young farmers acquire green houses in order to open agricultural opportunities in Kenya.
The partnership is also aims to help youth groups acquire Amiran Farmer’s Kit that includes agrochemicals, fertilizers, drip irrigation system and seeds worth sh. 358,344.
ENDS..
0723321326
Thursday, March 22, 2012
FOREST FIRES.
FOREST FIRES.
JANE MUGAMBI 22nd MARCH 2012.
The government has set aside sh10 million to mobilize resources to fight the raging fires in both Mt. Kenya and Aberdares forests.
Kenya Forest Service deputy director Patrick Kariuki said the money is being used to provide food, transport and other logistics required to fight the blazes that have destroyed thousands of forest.
He pointed out that apart from the KFS and the Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS) personnel, the army, national youth service men and police officers have joined the effort to extinguish the fires that have been burning for the last two weeks.
Kariuki who was speaking at Kamiigwa in Kirinyaga County during the Farmer Field School graduation ceremony the official said no resource will be spared to try and save the water towers from the fires.
He said the fire in Mt. Kenya forest has so far consumed moorlands and bamboo vegetation in Gathiuru, Chogoria and Naromoru areas of the expansive national park adding that the indigenous trees were so far not affected.
The official said they were working round the clock to ensure the fire is contained before it spreads to the lower parts of the mountain where indigenous trees are mostly found.
The KFS said they cannot rule out arson as the major cause of the fire outbreaks and urged people to be cautious during the current dry spell being experienced in the country.
The fires have been difficult to put out due to harsh weather and lack of proper equipment with an estimated 100 hectres of vegetation burned in the past few weeks.
ends..
0723321326
JANE MUGAMBI 22nd MARCH 2012.
The government has set aside sh10 million to mobilize resources to fight the raging fires in both Mt. Kenya and Aberdares forests.
Kenya Forest Service deputy director Patrick Kariuki said the money is being used to provide food, transport and other logistics required to fight the blazes that have destroyed thousands of forest.
He pointed out that apart from the KFS and the Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS) personnel, the army, national youth service men and police officers have joined the effort to extinguish the fires that have been burning for the last two weeks.
Kariuki who was speaking at Kamiigwa in Kirinyaga County during the Farmer Field School graduation ceremony the official said no resource will be spared to try and save the water towers from the fires.
He said the fire in Mt. Kenya forest has so far consumed moorlands and bamboo vegetation in Gathiuru, Chogoria and Naromoru areas of the expansive national park adding that the indigenous trees were so far not affected.
The official said they were working round the clock to ensure the fire is contained before it spreads to the lower parts of the mountain where indigenous trees are mostly found.
The KFS said they cannot rule out arson as the major cause of the fire outbreaks and urged people to be cautious during the current dry spell being experienced in the country.
The fires have been difficult to put out due to harsh weather and lack of proper equipment with an estimated 100 hectres of vegetation burned in the past few weeks.
ends..
0723321326
13 BILLION SHILLINGS TO BE USED IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF A WATER DAM IN GICHUGU.
13 BILLION SHILLINGS TO BE USED IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF A WATER DAM IN GICHUGU.
JANE MUGAMBI 21ST MARCH 2012.
Japanese Ambassador to Kenya Toshihisa Takata has said that there is need for the Kenyan government to concentrate on the growth of rice.
Speaking while touring the dam site at Gichugu where his government through JICA, the ambassador said that rice production of late has gone down due to the poor management.
He said that if the government can continue supporting Mwea Irrigation Agricultural Development (MIAD) in the research, then Kenya will never import rice.
“Mwea rice is known to be a rice growing area, lack of incentives on how to improve the seeds has seen the production going down year by year which is very worrying encouraging imports a move that is not supposed to be witnessed” added the Ambassador.
He said that the Japan government has set up 13 billion shillings to support the production of rice adding that they are also going to support MIAD so that they can get the best seed which will improve the production of rice in Mwea.
Takata added that his government is involved in agricultural research which he said they are also going to fund universities that are engaged in agriculture so that Kenya can be food sufficient.
HE said that ½ of rice production in Kenya is being imported saying that the government is supposed to support rice research centre for production and to get a variety that his high yielding to curb the diseases and pests that are destroying the rice while being in the fields.
He said that to increase rice production in Kenya the Japanese government has seen it as an important issue to expand the irrigation system through a project called RICE MAP focusing on marketing, planting to increase food production and food security and diversify as a country.
“Through Rice Map, we want Kenya to be food secure and also to diversify in very many areas regarding agriculture focusing on marketing and planting strong seeds” added the Ambassador.
Raphael Wanjogu a researcher at MIAD said that the major issue has been pests and diseases citing that rice blast has affected the production of rice in Mwea decreasing the production.
Wanjogu said that MIAD is determined to get the best seed and also find a lasting cure to the blast so that production can increase calling upon the government to give them funds for research which he says has been hindered by lack of funds since the institution does not get funding from the government but only from interested parties who wants to research.
He said that for them to support the institution, they have embarked on growing of grapes, bananas and other food plantations.
ENDS…
0723321326
JANE MUGAMBI 21ST MARCH 2012.
Japanese Ambassador to Kenya Toshihisa Takata has said that there is need for the Kenyan government to concentrate on the growth of rice.
Speaking while touring the dam site at Gichugu where his government through JICA, the ambassador said that rice production of late has gone down due to the poor management.
He said that if the government can continue supporting Mwea Irrigation Agricultural Development (MIAD) in the research, then Kenya will never import rice.
“Mwea rice is known to be a rice growing area, lack of incentives on how to improve the seeds has seen the production going down year by year which is very worrying encouraging imports a move that is not supposed to be witnessed” added the Ambassador.
He said that the Japan government has set up 13 billion shillings to support the production of rice adding that they are also going to support MIAD so that they can get the best seed which will improve the production of rice in Mwea.
Takata added that his government is involved in agricultural research which he said they are also going to fund universities that are engaged in agriculture so that Kenya can be food sufficient.
HE said that ½ of rice production in Kenya is being imported saying that the government is supposed to support rice research centre for production and to get a variety that his high yielding to curb the diseases and pests that are destroying the rice while being in the fields.
He said that to increase rice production in Kenya the Japanese government has seen it as an important issue to expand the irrigation system through a project called RICE MAP focusing on marketing, planting to increase food production and food security and diversify as a country.
“Through Rice Map, we want Kenya to be food secure and also to diversify in very many areas regarding agriculture focusing on marketing and planting strong seeds” added the Ambassador.
Raphael Wanjogu a researcher at MIAD said that the major issue has been pests and diseases citing that rice blast has affected the production of rice in Mwea decreasing the production.
Wanjogu said that MIAD is determined to get the best seed and also find a lasting cure to the blast so that production can increase calling upon the government to give them funds for research which he says has been hindered by lack of funds since the institution does not get funding from the government but only from interested parties who wants to research.
He said that for them to support the institution, they have embarked on growing of grapes, bananas and other food plantations.
ENDS…
0723321326
PNU ALLIANCE BACKS IEBC DECISIONS.
PNU ALLIANCE BACKS IEBC DECISIONS.
JANE MUGAMBI 19TH MARCH 2012.
PNU Alliance coordinator and also the energy minister Kiraitu Murungi has backed Independent electoral boundaries Commission on the election date.
Speaking at Kutus town after opening a PNU alliance office in Kirinyaga County, Kiraitu said that the IEBC did a great job for giving Kenyans an election date adding that Kenyans were also expectantly waiting for the date.
“The IEBC did a great think for Kenya since everybody was very anxious when elections were to be done” added Kiraitu.
HE said that PNU alliance has no fear for the election date citing that they will be able to do their campaign intensively.
The Energy minister went on to say that the mix up that was being witnessed by the ministers, politicians and also aspirants has been removed by the IEBC by setting a date that is appropriate for everybody.
Kiraitu however went on to say that IEBC has been able to interpret the High courts decision and also has shown that the court is supposed to be respect as per the constitution without following any political lines.
“Those that are making noise have just forgotten that we are in the new dispensation where the courts decision has to be followed. IEBC has interpreted it and has respected its date of March 2013”he added.
His finance minister counterpart said that he also supports IEBC decision as with accordance with the courts ruling.
He said that even if the grand coalition is dissolved, PNU alliance is very ready to go to the election.
Githae said that as PNU members, they will be able to programme their activities to see that they will get the top seat. HE said that there is no0 need for noise sine the term period is upto to January 14th when the grand coalition is going to be dissolved in preparation of the election saying that no one will earn any salary.
“Those that are making noise only want to be heard, the grand coalition will be dissolved on January next year and from that time their will be nobody who will be on payroll” added Githae.
On The party Kiraitu said that there are spoilers from Central Kenya who are determined to see that the people of the region are divided.
He said that central province has 28 presidential candidates who are aimed at dividing the people of central province calling for them to join the PNU alliance party for nomination to get one presidential candidate.
Kiraitu went on to say that on March 23rd this month they will be meeting in Limuru with members from Central region to deliberate on one agenda that aimed at bringing them together and also to support one candidate to avoid dividing the people of Central Kenya.
“We are not going to stop calling for more dialogue with central Kenya members to see that we are speaking on one voice so that we do not confuse the electorates from the region” added the Coordinator.
He also said that as per the membership required, Kirinyaga county has complied with over 2,000 registered members adding that grass root election are underway saying that they will start on 29th March this month upto 7th April next month.
Ends..
0723321326
JANE MUGAMBI 19TH MARCH 2012.
PNU Alliance coordinator and also the energy minister Kiraitu Murungi has backed Independent electoral boundaries Commission on the election date.
Speaking at Kutus town after opening a PNU alliance office in Kirinyaga County, Kiraitu said that the IEBC did a great job for giving Kenyans an election date adding that Kenyans were also expectantly waiting for the date.
“The IEBC did a great think for Kenya since everybody was very anxious when elections were to be done” added Kiraitu.
HE said that PNU alliance has no fear for the election date citing that they will be able to do their campaign intensively.
The Energy minister went on to say that the mix up that was being witnessed by the ministers, politicians and also aspirants has been removed by the IEBC by setting a date that is appropriate for everybody.
Kiraitu however went on to say that IEBC has been able to interpret the High courts decision and also has shown that the court is supposed to be respect as per the constitution without following any political lines.
“Those that are making noise have just forgotten that we are in the new dispensation where the courts decision has to be followed. IEBC has interpreted it and has respected its date of March 2013”he added.
His finance minister counterpart said that he also supports IEBC decision as with accordance with the courts ruling.
He said that even if the grand coalition is dissolved, PNU alliance is very ready to go to the election.
Githae said that as PNU members, they will be able to programme their activities to see that they will get the top seat. HE said that there is no0 need for noise sine the term period is upto to January 14th when the grand coalition is going to be dissolved in preparation of the election saying that no one will earn any salary.
“Those that are making noise only want to be heard, the grand coalition will be dissolved on January next year and from that time their will be nobody who will be on payroll” added Githae.
On The party Kiraitu said that there are spoilers from Central Kenya who are determined to see that the people of the region are divided.
He said that central province has 28 presidential candidates who are aimed at dividing the people of central province calling for them to join the PNU alliance party for nomination to get one presidential candidate.
Kiraitu went on to say that on March 23rd this month they will be meeting in Limuru with members from Central region to deliberate on one agenda that aimed at bringing them together and also to support one candidate to avoid dividing the people of Central Kenya.
“We are not going to stop calling for more dialogue with central Kenya members to see that we are speaking on one voice so that we do not confuse the electorates from the region” added the Coordinator.
He also said that as per the membership required, Kirinyaga county has complied with over 2,000 registered members adding that grass root election are underway saying that they will start on 29th March this month upto 7th April next month.
Ends..
0723321326
ARSON
ARSON.
JANE MUGAMBI 16TH MARCH 2012.
A 27 year old woman has been arrested after setting her house on blaze
in Kirinyaga County.
Miriam Nyambura set fire on her house on Friday following a domestic quarrel.
According to the OCPD Patrick Oduma, the husband was away when the
wife set their own timber house on fire.
He said that the husband Christopher Bundi who is a boda boda operator
in Kerugoya town reported the matter to the police after he was
informed by neighbors that his wife had set their house on fire.
Oduma said police and members of the public were not able to save
anything from the burning house as it was spreading fast.
The police boss added that the 120,000/- timber house was reduced to
ashes due to a domestic quarrel.
He went on to say that no one was injured in the inferno but nothing
was saved from the fire..
The police boss said that she will charged with arson when
investigations are through.
Ends…
0723321326
JANE MUGAMBI 16TH MARCH 2012.
A 27 year old woman has been arrested after setting her house on blaze
in Kirinyaga County.
Miriam Nyambura set fire on her house on Friday following a domestic quarrel.
According to the OCPD Patrick Oduma, the husband was away when the
wife set their own timber house on fire.
He said that the husband Christopher Bundi who is a boda boda operator
in Kerugoya town reported the matter to the police after he was
informed by neighbors that his wife had set their house on fire.
Oduma said police and members of the public were not able to save
anything from the burning house as it was spreading fast.
The police boss added that the 120,000/- timber house was reduced to
ashes due to a domestic quarrel.
He went on to say that no one was injured in the inferno but nothing
was saved from the fire..
The police boss said that she will charged with arson when
investigations are through.
Ends…
0723321326
KAZUNGU.
KAZUNGU.
JANE MUGAMBI 15TH MARCH 2012.
Medical services assistant minister Kambi Kazungu has called on all
government hospitals to computerize their services in order to give
quality services to wananchi and ensure there is efficient revenue
collection in public hospitals.
The minister added that Kenyatta National Hospital losses more than 3
billion shillings per month due to poor revenue collection which can
be used to improve facilities and infrastructure and ensure modern
services are being offered to patients.
“Public hospitals are supposed to be able to sustain themselves before
their is money set aside to run them. Computerization is the only way
to sustain them since every cent that is collected will be accounted
for” added Kazungu.
The minister made the remarks at Kangaita village in Kirinyaga central
when he paid a visit to a seven year old girl whose left leg has been
paralyzed after she allegedly got an injection that harmed her bone
saying that the government will foot her medical bill at Kenyatta
National hospital for the correction of the leg.
The minister further added that the government is committed to giving
wananchi quality health services and urged all health practitioners to
serve people willingly.
"The government has done enough taking into consideration the current
state of the economy." said the minister.
Kambi blamed the recent nurse’s strike for being politicized saying
that some people wanted to portray that Kibaki”s government as being
insensitive adding that some people wanted to get selfish gains.
Kambi warned that the government will crack down on all unlicensed
health facilities and quack doctors countrywide as well as arrest
those that are selling counterfeit drugs.
"Kenyans will suffer no more due to counterfeit drugs that are being
sold on the counters by quacks." said kambi.
Kambi promised that the government will foot all the bills at Kenyatta
national hospital where the girl will receive specialized treatment.
The Kaloleni member of Parliament later toured Kerugoya district
hospital where he found out that operations have resumed to normal.
He urged wananchi to seek services to government hospitals saying that
his ministry has resolved the strike that had affected operations in
public hospitals for days.
Kazungu went on to say that Kibaki is determined to see that 95% in
the health sector has been completed so as to give better services to
wananchi by giving modern equipments so as they can get quality
services.
Ends…
0723321326
JANE MUGAMBI 15TH MARCH 2012.
Medical services assistant minister Kambi Kazungu has called on all
government hospitals to computerize their services in order to give
quality services to wananchi and ensure there is efficient revenue
collection in public hospitals.
The minister added that Kenyatta National Hospital losses more than 3
billion shillings per month due to poor revenue collection which can
be used to improve facilities and infrastructure and ensure modern
services are being offered to patients.
“Public hospitals are supposed to be able to sustain themselves before
their is money set aside to run them. Computerization is the only way
to sustain them since every cent that is collected will be accounted
for” added Kazungu.
The minister made the remarks at Kangaita village in Kirinyaga central
when he paid a visit to a seven year old girl whose left leg has been
paralyzed after she allegedly got an injection that harmed her bone
saying that the government will foot her medical bill at Kenyatta
National hospital for the correction of the leg.
The minister further added that the government is committed to giving
wananchi quality health services and urged all health practitioners to
serve people willingly.
"The government has done enough taking into consideration the current
state of the economy." said the minister.
Kambi blamed the recent nurse’s strike for being politicized saying
that some people wanted to portray that Kibaki”s government as being
insensitive adding that some people wanted to get selfish gains.
Kambi warned that the government will crack down on all unlicensed
health facilities and quack doctors countrywide as well as arrest
those that are selling counterfeit drugs.
"Kenyans will suffer no more due to counterfeit drugs that are being
sold on the counters by quacks." said kambi.
Kambi promised that the government will foot all the bills at Kenyatta
national hospital where the girl will receive specialized treatment.
The Kaloleni member of Parliament later toured Kerugoya district
hospital where he found out that operations have resumed to normal.
He urged wananchi to seek services to government hospitals saying that
his ministry has resolved the strike that had affected operations in
public hospitals for days.
Kazungu went on to say that Kibaki is determined to see that 95% in
the health sector has been completed so as to give better services to
wananchi by giving modern equipments so as they can get quality
services.
Ends…
0723321326
THEFT AT MWEA CDF OFFICES.
THEFT AT MWEA CDF OFFICES.
JANE MUGAMBI 12TH MARCH 2012.
Mwea Constituency development fund offices were broken into today by
unknown people and four computers stolen.
The office was not broken into but it was opened with a master key to
gain access.
Area MP who spoke to the STAR on phone said that he suspects that it
was an inside job.
HE said that there is a person who wants to sabotage his work by
stealing the computers.
“There is a person who is sabotaging my work. Stealing the computers
means that I cannot access the documents and work that has been saved
in the computers” added Gitau
The Mp said that the person who managed to get into the offices was
determined to accomplish his mission without the fear of officers
since the offices are at the District Commissioners compound that is
under police guard 24/7.
Gitau also cited that the police on duty last night when it is
suspected the theft occurred should also be interrogated to give his
details.
He has however said that investigations are supposed to be done
thoroughly and those that stole the computers to be arrested.
“Police are supposed to do their investigations seriously so that they
can arrest the person behind the theft” He said.
The OCPD Apollo Onyonyi said that investigations are underway calling
for patience.
Ends…
0723321326
JANE MUGAMBI 12TH MARCH 2012.
Mwea Constituency development fund offices were broken into today by
unknown people and four computers stolen.
The office was not broken into but it was opened with a master key to
gain access.
Area MP who spoke to the STAR on phone said that he suspects that it
was an inside job.
HE said that there is a person who wants to sabotage his work by
stealing the computers.
“There is a person who is sabotaging my work. Stealing the computers
means that I cannot access the documents and work that has been saved
in the computers” added Gitau
The Mp said that the person who managed to get into the offices was
determined to accomplish his mission without the fear of officers
since the offices are at the District Commissioners compound that is
under police guard 24/7.
Gitau also cited that the police on duty last night when it is
suspected the theft occurred should also be interrogated to give his
details.
He has however said that investigations are supposed to be done
thoroughly and those that stole the computers to be arrested.
“Police are supposed to do their investigations seriously so that they
can arrest the person behind the theft” He said.
The OCPD Apollo Onyonyi said that investigations are underway calling
for patience.
Ends…
0723321326
MUSALIA MUDAVADI.
MUSALIA MUDAVADI.
JANE MUGAMBI 12TH MARCH 2012.
Deputy Prime minister Musalia Mudavadi has said that there cannot be a
replacement in ODM with Foreign affairs minister.
Speaking after a delegates meeting in Kerugoya, the DPM said that
Wetangula cannot take his position since he (Wetangula) has his own
party which he heads.
“Wetangula cannot take my position i9n ODM since he has his own party”
added Mudavadi.
HE said that the reports in the media are just but rumors which will
never be citing that lack of dialogue and being single selfish is what
is resulting into such speculations.
Mudavadi went on to say that the objectives that were used to form ODM
has since lacked meaning citing that the party seems to be an
individual party which is wrong.
He said that his interests are not to take over the party but to
exercise his interests which he said are being blocked by a section
of members in ODM saying that his motive is to pursue interest that
will bring fairness and will make the party members exercise their own
interests without being blocked.
"Raila should not see me as a threat I am just but exercising my
interests to see that the party does not belong to an individual but
to its members" added the DPM
He said that delegates are the ones who will make a decision on who
they want to lead them saying that members and in his case are
supposed to make the party a better one by its members being open
minded and a party that will move ahead.
He said that delegates are the ones who will decide the flag bearer
comparing the party politics with the football teams where one wins
and the other loses.
"If Rooney gets out of Manchester united wont it continue
participating in leagues,thats how politics is all about teams" asked
Mudavadi.
Sunday's meeting where prime Minister Raila Odinga attended at Kabare
theological university was boycotted by ODM members from Kirinyaga
County due to the wrangles that are in the party.
Party's chairman Mungai Njaga said that the reason for the boycott was
the differences that are in the party citing that since ODM was formed
not at any one time there had a member who has gone to the grassroot
level only come to the county when there are occasions.
He said that they are sending a statement to the PM that his policies
are not working and that he is supposed to let others exercise their
rights as Kenyans and as per the constitution.
"ODM sio chama ya mtu binafsi niya kila mtu ambaye amejiunga(ODM is
not an individual party it belongs to everybody)" added Njaga.
He said that they will be backing and individual who is an ODM member
whose policies are flexible.
On the comments that were made by the PM on ICC he said that the case
is not a simple matter as it is being seen saying that it will
jeopardize the process saying that it should be treated with care
warning leaders using the ICC to intimidate others.
He also said that such comment made can deny the freedom that has
always been sort by the Ocampo four saying that politics have taken
center stage in the case.
ends..
0723321326
JANE MUGAMBI 12TH MARCH 2012.
Deputy Prime minister Musalia Mudavadi has said that there cannot be a
replacement in ODM with Foreign affairs minister.
Speaking after a delegates meeting in Kerugoya, the DPM said that
Wetangula cannot take his position since he (Wetangula) has his own
party which he heads.
“Wetangula cannot take my position i9n ODM since he has his own party”
added Mudavadi.
HE said that the reports in the media are just but rumors which will
never be citing that lack of dialogue and being single selfish is what
is resulting into such speculations.
Mudavadi went on to say that the objectives that were used to form ODM
has since lacked meaning citing that the party seems to be an
individual party which is wrong.
He said that his interests are not to take over the party but to
exercise his interests which he said are being blocked by a section
of members in ODM saying that his motive is to pursue interest that
will bring fairness and will make the party members exercise their own
interests without being blocked.
"Raila should not see me as a threat I am just but exercising my
interests to see that the party does not belong to an individual but
to its members" added the DPM
He said that delegates are the ones who will make a decision on who
they want to lead them saying that members and in his case are
supposed to make the party a better one by its members being open
minded and a party that will move ahead.
He said that delegates are the ones who will decide the flag bearer
comparing the party politics with the football teams where one wins
and the other loses.
"If Rooney gets out of Manchester united wont it continue
participating in leagues,thats how politics is all about teams" asked
Mudavadi.
Sunday's meeting where prime Minister Raila Odinga attended at Kabare
theological university was boycotted by ODM members from Kirinyaga
County due to the wrangles that are in the party.
Party's chairman Mungai Njaga said that the reason for the boycott was
the differences that are in the party citing that since ODM was formed
not at any one time there had a member who has gone to the grassroot
level only come to the county when there are occasions.
He said that they are sending a statement to the PM that his policies
are not working and that he is supposed to let others exercise their
rights as Kenyans and as per the constitution.
"ODM sio chama ya mtu binafsi niya kila mtu ambaye amejiunga(ODM is
not an individual party it belongs to everybody)" added Njaga.
He said that they will be backing and individual who is an ODM member
whose policies are flexible.
On the comments that were made by the PM on ICC he said that the case
is not a simple matter as it is being seen saying that it will
jeopardize the process saying that it should be treated with care
warning leaders using the ICC to intimidate others.
He also said that such comment made can deny the freedom that has
always been sort by the Ocampo four saying that politics have taken
center stage in the case.
ends..
0723321326
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
WATER PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED IN GICHUGU
WATER PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED IN GICHUGU.
JANE MUGAMBI 6TH MARCH 2012.
The government will send a team to resolve the long dispute over the
management of Njuki-ini/Ngariama water project in Gichugu
constituency, Water assistant minister Ferdinand Waititu has said.
Water assistant minister Ferdinard Waititu said the crisis which has
affected the provision of water to 20,000 residents was regrettable
adding that residents should be left to run their project.
He said the ministry will be deploying senior technical staff to the
troubled Gichugu Water and Sanitation Trust to address issues raised
by residents.
Waititu said the dispute which has been sparked by water charges has
interrupted water flow to schools, health facilities and other
institutions.
The assistant minister spoke during public rallies in Kiamutugu and
Githure shopping centres in Kirinyaga County while accompanying Vice
President Kalonzo Musyoka in a tour of the region.
“We want the dispute resolved once and for all to ensure water
distribution is not interrupted,” said the Embakasi Mp.
Residents have accused the water company of forcefully taking their
project which they initiated in 1979 and started charging them monthly
bills.
The dispute has led to vandalism of supply pipes cutting the flow to
scores of farmers.
But on the other hand the water trust has accused large scale
consumers who use the commodity for pulping coffee of resisting the
billing system.
Waititu however said the residents should be allowed to run their
projects without interference and was applauded by the crowd.
JANE MUGAMBI 6TH MARCH 2012.
The government will send a team to resolve the long dispute over the
management of Njuki-ini/Ngariama water project in Gichugu
constituency, Water assistant minister Ferdinand Waititu has said.
Water assistant minister Ferdinard Waititu said the crisis which has
affected the provision of water to 20,000 residents was regrettable
adding that residents should be left to run their project.
He said the ministry will be deploying senior technical staff to the
troubled Gichugu Water and Sanitation Trust to address issues raised
by residents.
Waititu said the dispute which has been sparked by water charges has
interrupted water flow to schools, health facilities and other
institutions.
The assistant minister spoke during public rallies in Kiamutugu and
Githure shopping centres in Kirinyaga County while accompanying Vice
President Kalonzo Musyoka in a tour of the region.
“We want the dispute resolved once and for all to ensure water
distribution is not interrupted,” said the Embakasi Mp.
Residents have accused the water company of forcefully taking their
project which they initiated in 1979 and started charging them monthly
bills.
The dispute has led to vandalism of supply pipes cutting the flow to
scores of farmers.
But on the other hand the water trust has accused large scale
consumers who use the commodity for pulping coffee of resisting the
billing system.
Waititu however said the residents should be allowed to run their
projects without interference and was applauded by the crowd.
Monday, March 5, 2012
KALONZO IN KIRINYAGA.
JANE MUGAMBI 4TH MARCH 2012.
Vice president Kalonzo Musyoka took his campaign rally at Gichugu a stronghold for Martha Karua.
The VP said that he is still in the G7 alliance citing that what was appearing in the media is not true.
HE admitted that there were some divisions adding that they have made up and that they have resolved to working together for the benefit of the country.
“There were some differences but now we have resolved since fights will not make us as leaders be able to serve the country” added Kalonzo.
The VP said that whatever is written makes people have imaginations over leaders portraying them badly citing an article that was carried in one of the dailies portraying him a cursed VP.
“The media is portraying us in a bad way, on one of the dailies on Saturday, it was written that I am a cursed Vp, the leader of the paper will have a low opinion or even will judge as per the article. The media please stop tarnishing our names: he added.
Kalonzo also said that politics cannot be played on tribal lines citing that G7 alliance is a political party that is ready to reconcile Kenyans.
“We have to reconcile Kenyans despite having the 42 tribes that are in the country, tribal lines cannot take us anywhere instead it will only divide our dear country” Added the VP.
Accompanying the VP was Ferdinand Waititu (Embakasi) Mike Mbuvi) Makadara),Mohammed Affey (Wajir) who all urged Kenyans that their main aim is to unite Kenyans and not divide as it is being propagated.
Waititu said that there is no division in G7 as it is being portrayed saying that the differences that were there have been resolved for the betterment of the country.
The Embakasi Mp said that anybody who is going to bring division in G7 will be their enemy.
He urged Mt. Kenya leaders vying for presidential seats (Martha Karua, Peter Kenneth, Uhuru,) top join G7 saying that there is a lot of space.
He said that in this era one cannot win alone urging Martha to join their bus to form a strong party.
“In this Kenya you cannot win alone, if u loose the seat you will go home to do farming” Said Waititu.
Tomorrow(Today) the VP will be having a meeting with Kirinyaga leaders at Kutus town where he will have a come we meet the people tour in Kerugoya town, Kutus, Kimbimbi and Ngurubani then Makutano as he heads to Nairobi.
On Sunday he had a meet the people tour at Kianyaga, Kiamutugu where he said that once he is defeated he will concede defeat and not willing to call for mass action or chaos.
HE also said that Identity cards are being given for free saying that nobody is supposed to pay 300/- to enable them get the voters cards before the exercise is closed.
Makadara Mp said that despite being in Gichugu, which is the home era for Narc-Kenya chairperson, he said that Kenya is a democratic country where people are allowed to go anywhere at anytime.
“Democracy is not chasing people from party or home area by hiring youths to cause chaos, Kenya is a democratic country where people can move freely” Added Mbuvi.
No Member of parliament from the county who had attended his meetings.
Kalonzo Musyoka for the first time sort for support from Kirinyaga
electorates at Kutus Town.
The VP spoke after opening the wiper democratic movement party’s
office at Kutus town urged the electorates to vote for him as he is
the best candidate for being the president.
“I have come to Kirinyaga to personally introduce myself to the
voters. I have been in parliament for 27 years” added Kalonzo.
The VP added that his strength is a unifier for Kenya without unity
and peace no progress adding that his main vision is to see that
unity and peace prevails in the country.
He said that he has the understanding and knows how the country is run
and operates as he has worked with Kibaki for 4 years and he knows
what is best for Kenyans.
Kalonzo also said there cannot be peace if at all the internally
displaced persons have never been settled calling it unfortunate.
“It is very unfortunate to see that we are going to an election year
while some of our brothers and sisters are still in camps” he added.
He added that very many leaders in the country have the potential
saying that it is not well utilized due to the bad politics that have
been witnessed.
The VP also said that women should stop beating their husbands saying
that family unity is a very important thing in the society telling men
to be responsible.
HE however called for Women to stop beating men and called for
soberness in homes.
The VP however said that leaders should learn taking responsibilities
of blood that is shed after they called for violence.
“In 2007-2008 if some leader in ODM did not call for mass action there
could not be people at the Camps in their own country due to the
results of disputed election” added Kalonzo.
He also said that politics of killings and that of dictatorship is
long gone adding that a Kenya needs a leader who is sober, has the
knowledge and who has never ever been linked to any wrongdoing of the
country.
He also said that betrayal politics are not supposed to be used in
2012 elections to avoid deaths.
He has however condemned the demolitions in Mutindwa saying that the
agreement that was there was to be adhered to give the occupants time
to vacate.
The Vp also said that sewerage system is an urgent issue in Mwea which
needs to be addresses immediately due to the rising number in
population.
He has however urged drivers to be careful while driving to avert
deaths citing that were it not for the careless driving, five members
of the same family in Mwea could not have died.
Makandara Mp who had accompanied the VP also said that the way in
which people are being made IDP's through demolitions is unacceptable
adding that despite that there is need for the by-pass, the contractor
could have give notice to the occupants to avoid keeping Kenyans in
the cold.
"The way in which Kenyans are being left in the cold due to the
demolitions is unacceptable,the contractor was supposed to have given
the occupants time to vacate" added Mbuvi.
Ends..
0723321326
Thursday, March 1, 2012
MUTIRA ON TO GET BACK TO ITS GLORY.
MUTIRA ON TO GET BACK TO ITS GLORY.
JANE MUGAMBI 1ST MARCH 2012.
Esther Wakiini has returned the lost glory of Mutira Girls in Kirinyaga County.
She joined her former school Mutira secondary school fraternity to celebrate her success after the Kenya certificate secondary of education results were read yesterday by the education minister Sam Ongeri.
Esther was the best student in Kirinyaga County after attaining 86 points in her KCSE and was position 71 countrywide and 25 in the girls category.
Speaking at the school the 17 year old girl said that she wants to become a doctor specializing on oncology (cancer and tumors) after losing her loved onces to cancer.
“I was determined to become a doctor since I joined form one after losing my close relatives, friends to cancer and tumors” added Esther.
Describing her daughter, Kabwire Githenya said that at home Esther has a room where she has hanged bones for studying.
He said that much of her time is spent on researching a thing that the family has given her the full support so as to achieve her dream describing her as a very hardworking ,cooperative, disciplined and a volunteer, calm and very composed girl.
“I tried telling her to do accounting but she said she has already made up her mind, together with the mum we have joined hands to see that she has been able to achieve her dream of finding a cure to cancer” added Githenya.
Mr. Githenya added that her daughters excelling results were attributed to the cooperation of her teachers and that of his cooperation by ensuring that she was able to get books from his publishing company where he works and teachers supplying her with test papers and also helping her tackle topics.
HE also said that it is through her daughter that the schools managed to be promoted and getting to its feet after years of dropping academically.
“Esther has promoted Mutira and has made it get back to its roots” he said.
ENDS..
0723321326
NURSES STRIKE-KIRINYAGA.
JANE MUGAMBI 01/03/12
One person is feared dead at Kerugoya district hospital after Medical workers (nurses) down their tools demanding better working conditions.
The patient is reported to have succumbed to illness this morning after nurses neglected him and joined the strike which has paralyzed all operations in the only referral hospital in Kirinyaga County.
Unconfirmed report says that the patient died as other subordinate workers looked at him as they could not offer any assistance for they do not have skills or did not know how to handle him.
Following the strike, hundreds of patients were stranded at the hospital without anyone to prescribe drugs for them.
Led by the Kenya health professionals’ society secretary Central region Lawrence Kinyua the workers downed their tools demanding their allowances which the government has been giving empty promises.
He said that the government has failed in its responsibilities of tackling issues that are affecting the medical fraternity.
“The government has shown that it is not able to handle the issues of the medical fraternity, since the time it said it was ready for dialogue, the two ministers were supposed to have done so n not the eleventh hour” he added.
The striking workers who included nurses, clinical officers’ laboratory technicians and drivers refused to work and rose up in protest accusing the government of failing to keep its promises
Among the demands they want government to urgently deal with is risk, house and extraneous allowances which they pointed are long overdue.
They vowed to continue with the strike until the government meets their demands.
The protesters said the government had in December last year promised to pay the allowances but failed to fulfill its pledges.
The union boss noted that the only language the government understands is strike as the minister for medical services has taken them for a ride.
When the press visited the hospital the situation was appalling and all the departments were not in operation and patients, some who were too weak could be seen sleeping in beds groaning in pain.
A woman who trekked for ten kilometers to the hospital to give birth was turned away and had to be assisted to get into a room by other women who had rose for their normal clinics..
The situation was worse at wards where patients were left without anyone to give them drugs, do dressing or even prepare them to go to theatre.
Those who were waiting to be taken to theatre for operation complained that there were no nurses to prepare them for surgery.
A retired senior prison warder Wilson Mwai said he was supposed to be wheeled to theatre in the morning but it never happened.
Other patients said they were shocked when nurses came to the wards and told them to go home although they were unwell and disappeared wondering where they were supposed to go to seek treatment without a discharge sheet which is required to show wherever they would go if they were able to get out.
ENDS……………..
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