John Cheruiyot
A one day workshop held at a Kericho hotel recently brought together over forty women leaders from the greater Kericho districts. The delegates came from Kericho East, Kericho West, Chepalungu, Sotik, Bureti, Bomet and Kipkelion. The meeting was hosted by Rift Valley Rural Women Network founded by Dr.Esther Keino and was facilitated and sponsored by Centre for Multiparty Democracy. Among the facilitators was Prof.Maria Nzomo, one of the leading gender activists in Kenya on women rights.
The workshop’s theme was ‘Gains for women in the proposed constitution.’
Prof.Nzomo observed that she was not beating about the bush when it comes to women issues and their rights. That the proposed constitution has what we women right fighters fought for for decades. She further observed that women should not be worried about what men think on the constitution but on what the document says about their issues.
“We shall have no excuse at all as women if we let this opportunity of having a new constitution disappear into the thin air ,” she added.
She further noted that culture and traditions have been used to pin women down, that Wambui Otieno lost the case of her husband in the 1980s because culture overruled everything and that the proposed constitution will eradicate outdated and retrogressive traditions which have enslaved women for centuries. She also noted that “history of political parties is such that the youth, women, minorities and the disabled were marginalized. Political parties have been for decades been run on thuggish principles tilted to favour men against women. For instance, look at what happened to Prof. Julia Odhiambo in 2007 and after. It is time we assert ourselves as women. We have what it takes. We can stand as independent candidates during the elections. You can contest for presidency as an independent candidate. The days of the mighty party chairmen are gone. Only in the proposed constitution.” She added that in the proposed constitution women will be recognized and so will the youth, the disabled and the elderly.
She dismissed the issues of land, abortion and Kadhi courts as merely political propaganda.
She observed that the proposed Senate will have 16 women out of the 47. It will also have the youth and the disabled where gender will be considered.
She further observed, “Women should wake up and seize the opportunities before them. In the proposed national commissions women should stop being mere members or vice chairs but be at top positions in institutions such as the Kenya National Human Rights Commission.”
The women who attended the meeting shared very personal testimonies on how the existing constitution has oppressed women. Dr. Keino gave a classic example of her son born in the US 32 years ago who could not be granted Kenyan citizenship, because her Kenyan citizenship as a woman would not conferred to her son automatically. She noted that the proposed constitution will bring at par both men and women. Another participant gave her testimony that “when I was to go abroad for a seminar the law put it that I was to get the permission from my husband!”
Another lady revealed, “I am a single mother. I have children and I stay in my father’s land. My brothers are all entitled to my father’s land but I am excluded. The outdated traditions and culture ignored my existence. The proposed law gives me a voice.”
Another stated, “The reason why women find themselves in Tengecha or Koinage Street of Kericho is simple. They have no land, hence they are forced out into prostitution by retrogressive traditions and cultures.”
She further added that the reason why the political class are rejecting the proposed law is because it will tilt the equation of society towards justice and fair play.
A widow from Belgut narrated, “I have four daughters and no son. The brothers of my late husband have decided that I will not inherit my husband’s share of land because I did not give birth to a male child. It is that bad. We need a law for 21st century Kenya.”
One other participant observed, “We come from a NO zone. Wearing of a green T-Shirt or fronting the proposed constitution is criminal. People are scared . Those who supported a party other than ODM in 2007 had their houses torched. They were frog-matched and displayed in market centres as species of ridicule.”
Prof.Nzomo noted that after the repeal of section 2A in the early 1990s,the atmosphere throughout the country was hostile for all who opted for a party other than KANU. We were harassed, ridiculed and branded radicals. Today we have freedom of association. Those of you facing similar situation should know this-no scenario is permanent. The walls of intimidation and ridicule will fall before our eyes. ”
Prof. Maria Nzomo, Chelagat Mutai, Dr.Esther Keino and Ida Odinga were schoolmates in the late 1960s at Moi Girls Eldoret.Their revolutionary ideas thus have their roots in Rift Valley.
eCentury is a Kenyan monthly newspaper published by Sir Communications. We publish unique, innovative, and empowering stories mainly on Kenyan issues. We are very investigative and our stories come from the remotest parts of Kenya.
Showing posts with label Kenya. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kenya. Show all posts
Friday, June 25, 2010
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Ruling Class Taught a Lesson in Mugirango By-Election
John Cheruiyot
The South Mugirango by election result was stunning. It was a devastating defeat to the ruling class; who for a long time has underrated the intelligence of the masses. With the helicopters, their money, their limousines and other fuel guzzlers they did not sway the voters of South Mugirango to vote their way.
A divided PNU, ODM and KANU could not stand the verdict of the people.
Manson Nyamweya of FORD People won with 14,099 followed at a distance by Magara of PDP with 8885, then Ochoi of ODM at 7638 and Rashid Miyoga of PPK with 1,145. KANU did not feature at all.
When Magara defected from ODM to join little known PDP, political bigwigs swung to his side. He became an instant political darling of the connected and the moneyed. Top political gurus suspended their parties to support Magara. Uhuru Kenyatta left KANU to support Magara, likewise William Ruto left ODM to support Magara. The support for Magara was more of a protest against Raila. The YES and the NO contenders left their differences to support Magara. In the process the voice of the people, the voice and the conscience of the masses was ignored.
The political class displayed their glamour and splendour as they climbed the skies of South Mugirango with impunity. Manson Nyamweya kept telling the people: “It is you who will determine who goes to parliament not them.” He was right. It is the people and not the moneyed and the connected.
The win by Nyamweya may be dismissed as a mere by-election. It is a battle between the interests of the elite and those of the people. The real political landscape was crafted during the Mugirango by-election.
That leaders who remain faithful to the interests of the people and who are not stooges and puppets of the outsiders - it is they who prevail. Being associated to party heavyweights is longer an asset.
The party bigwigs focusing on the 2012 were at South Mugirango to show their prowess. The PNU and ODM supremacy was the centrepiece of the Mugirango by-election. Their agenda was defeated.
What this means is - Kenyan voters are independent and intelligent. They can courageously decide who becomes their leader.
Indeed it should be noted that the one party dictatorship was all about leaders who were planted from the apex. It was all about being connected to the power barons of the nation. The people were bought and swayed at will and whim. The top-down political structure was the order of the day. The bottom-up was apparently outlawed.
Indeed the bottom-up won in South Mugirango. In one way or another the ruling elite has run out of ideas. They have no ideas to turn around the economy. They have no vision to prosper the nation. They drive expensive limousines and ride first world copters in the fourth world economy. Their life styles are beyond the economy of the nation.
Being president and being a bigwig and a political heavyweight in a weak nation and a weak economy is what mesmerizes the ruling class.
Kenya needs a third force, a force of the people, a force fuelled by a vision to empower and prosper the people. Being president and being powerful and affluent in a poor economy does not make sense.
What Kenya today needs possibly is a national Manson Nyamweya, a leader who is driven more by the aspirations and the interest of the people. A leader whose vision is to serve and empower the people.
A leader who is ready to outlaw the use of helicopters and fuel guzzlers in a weak economy as ours. A leader who not after power and authority for personal glory. A leader who dares to innovate, invent and create new ideas and new options for the nation. A leader who is not craving for foreign aid and foreign neo-colonial favours. One who believes in the people and in the potential of the nation.
The 2012 is not about a change economically and technologically; it is about leaders queuing for privileges as the people sink into the abyss of poverty and penury.
The South Mugirango by election result was stunning. It was a devastating defeat to the ruling class; who for a long time has underrated the intelligence of the masses. With the helicopters, their money, their limousines and other fuel guzzlers they did not sway the voters of South Mugirango to vote their way.
A divided PNU, ODM and KANU could not stand the verdict of the people.
Manson Nyamweya of FORD People won with 14,099 followed at a distance by Magara of PDP with 8885, then Ochoi of ODM at 7638 and Rashid Miyoga of PPK with 1,145. KANU did not feature at all.
When Magara defected from ODM to join little known PDP, political bigwigs swung to his side. He became an instant political darling of the connected and the moneyed. Top political gurus suspended their parties to support Magara. Uhuru Kenyatta left KANU to support Magara, likewise William Ruto left ODM to support Magara. The support for Magara was more of a protest against Raila. The YES and the NO contenders left their differences to support Magara. In the process the voice of the people, the voice and the conscience of the masses was ignored.
The political class displayed their glamour and splendour as they climbed the skies of South Mugirango with impunity. Manson Nyamweya kept telling the people: “It is you who will determine who goes to parliament not them.” He was right. It is the people and not the moneyed and the connected.
The win by Nyamweya may be dismissed as a mere by-election. It is a battle between the interests of the elite and those of the people. The real political landscape was crafted during the Mugirango by-election.
That leaders who remain faithful to the interests of the people and who are not stooges and puppets of the outsiders - it is they who prevail. Being associated to party heavyweights is longer an asset.
The party bigwigs focusing on the 2012 were at South Mugirango to show their prowess. The PNU and ODM supremacy was the centrepiece of the Mugirango by-election. Their agenda was defeated.
What this means is - Kenyan voters are independent and intelligent. They can courageously decide who becomes their leader.
Indeed it should be noted that the one party dictatorship was all about leaders who were planted from the apex. It was all about being connected to the power barons of the nation. The people were bought and swayed at will and whim. The top-down political structure was the order of the day. The bottom-up was apparently outlawed.
Indeed the bottom-up won in South Mugirango. In one way or another the ruling elite has run out of ideas. They have no ideas to turn around the economy. They have no vision to prosper the nation. They drive expensive limousines and ride first world copters in the fourth world economy. Their life styles are beyond the economy of the nation.
Being president and being a bigwig and a political heavyweight in a weak nation and a weak economy is what mesmerizes the ruling class.
Kenya needs a third force, a force of the people, a force fuelled by a vision to empower and prosper the people. Being president and being powerful and affluent in a poor economy does not make sense.
What Kenya today needs possibly is a national Manson Nyamweya, a leader who is driven more by the aspirations and the interest of the people. A leader whose vision is to serve and empower the people.
A leader who is ready to outlaw the use of helicopters and fuel guzzlers in a weak economy as ours. A leader who not after power and authority for personal glory. A leader who dares to innovate, invent and create new ideas and new options for the nation. A leader who is not craving for foreign aid and foreign neo-colonial favours. One who believes in the people and in the potential of the nation.
The 2012 is not about a change economically and technologically; it is about leaders queuing for privileges as the people sink into the abyss of poverty and penury.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Ngong Vet reinventing Dairy Farming
eCentury Reporter
Dairy farmers face unique challenges. For instance their cows fail to conceive more often, these may be heifers or cows. This translates to massive loses. According Dr. J. Mutea of Katheju Agencies, a Ngong based vet, a normal cow should conceive two months after calving and this means a calf per cow per year. If for one reason or the other conception fails farmers have a reason to worry.
The eCentury team accompanied Dr. Mutea and his partner Dr. Mugo on their routine trips to carry out emergencies in the farms. The farm they visited was in Upper Matasia, Kiserian location of Ngong Division owned by Sharon Looremetta, a dairy and horticultural farmer. She practices semi zero grazing. She rears goats, sheep, rabbits and poultry. She grows all kinds of vegetables, maize and horticultural crops for export.
Dr. Mugo and Mutea’s visit at Looremetta’s farm was for one reason; to inseminate two heifers which had failed to conceive and thus were barren. The vets had began ten days earlier by what they called hormone therapy. The two heifers were treated for cysts in their wombs and induced to ovulate whose climax was ten days after. It was then that they were inseminated.
According to Mutea the case of Looremetta’s heifers was caused by initial malnutrition of heifer as calves. They were not fed and managed well. The heifers were later overfed. They got fat and resulted in the condition Mutea and his colleague were treating.
“This problem affects heifers from high yielding breeds. If these heifers were the ordinary low yielding breeds nothing more much would have happened.” Mutea said.
According to Sharon her cows yield from 30 litres to over 40 litres per cow per a day, on average she gets over 100 litres of milk per day. She converts her milk into yoghurt and mala which is sold at her dairy bar in Ngong town.
The heifers which were inseminated were Sheila and Nashana, Friesian and a Aryshire breeds respectively. According to Looremetta her cows are named after her relatives, a tradition she revealed is practised by the Maasai community. Every cow in her possession has a name of a close family member.
Each heifer inseminated was issued with an AI card which showed the name of the bull, the date of insemination and the expected date of calving. Mutea had a cow calendar; a magic calendar which shows the exact date when the cow calves. The date of conception is fed into it and automatically shows the date of calving.
Sharon Looremetta was until two years ago a professional working with an international NGO whose mandate was to champion and crusade for climate change.
In her work as a climate crusader she brushed shoulders with the mighty the likes of Gordon Brown the British Prime Minister, Prince Charles and Al Gore former US vice president. She was-eCentury learned, a spokesperson for her organization and in particular the fund raising arm. She would deliver powerful speeches in her Maasai gear and flawless English.
She did not renew her contract two years ago to concentrate on her passion-farming. Her heifers did not get the attention they needed because she was always away in her international assignments.
She praised the work of Mutea and Mugo.
“Mutea and his agency have brought us from far. They have raised the standards of our dairy. They have brought us the cutting edge ideas on dairy. My zero grazing structures was their innovation” she says.
Sharon has transformed her farm using ideas from experts in farming. She has dug trenches which act as terraces and at the same time harvest rain water. She also harvests water from every roof in her compound.
Dairy farmers face unique challenges. For instance their cows fail to conceive more often, these may be heifers or cows. This translates to massive loses. According Dr. J. Mutea of Katheju Agencies, a Ngong based vet, a normal cow should conceive two months after calving and this means a calf per cow per year. If for one reason or the other conception fails farmers have a reason to worry.
The eCentury team accompanied Dr. Mutea and his partner Dr. Mugo on their routine trips to carry out emergencies in the farms. The farm they visited was in Upper Matasia, Kiserian location of Ngong Division owned by Sharon Looremetta, a dairy and horticultural farmer. She practices semi zero grazing. She rears goats, sheep, rabbits and poultry. She grows all kinds of vegetables, maize and horticultural crops for export.
Dr. Mugo and Mutea’s visit at Looremetta’s farm was for one reason; to inseminate two heifers which had failed to conceive and thus were barren. The vets had began ten days earlier by what they called hormone therapy. The two heifers were treated for cysts in their wombs and induced to ovulate whose climax was ten days after. It was then that they were inseminated.
According to Mutea the case of Looremetta’s heifers was caused by initial malnutrition of heifer as calves. They were not fed and managed well. The heifers were later overfed. They got fat and resulted in the condition Mutea and his colleague were treating.
“This problem affects heifers from high yielding breeds. If these heifers were the ordinary low yielding breeds nothing more much would have happened.” Mutea said.
According to Sharon her cows yield from 30 litres to over 40 litres per cow per a day, on average she gets over 100 litres of milk per day. She converts her milk into yoghurt and mala which is sold at her dairy bar in Ngong town.
The heifers which were inseminated were Sheila and Nashana, Friesian and a Aryshire breeds respectively. According to Looremetta her cows are named after her relatives, a tradition she revealed is practised by the Maasai community. Every cow in her possession has a name of a close family member.
Each heifer inseminated was issued with an AI card which showed the name of the bull, the date of insemination and the expected date of calving. Mutea had a cow calendar; a magic calendar which shows the exact date when the cow calves. The date of conception is fed into it and automatically shows the date of calving.
Sharon Looremetta was until two years ago a professional working with an international NGO whose mandate was to champion and crusade for climate change.
In her work as a climate crusader she brushed shoulders with the mighty the likes of Gordon Brown the British Prime Minister, Prince Charles and Al Gore former US vice president. She was-eCentury learned, a spokesperson for her organization and in particular the fund raising arm. She would deliver powerful speeches in her Maasai gear and flawless English.
She did not renew her contract two years ago to concentrate on her passion-farming. Her heifers did not get the attention they needed because she was always away in her international assignments.
She praised the work of Mutea and Mugo.
“Mutea and his agency have brought us from far. They have raised the standards of our dairy. They have brought us the cutting edge ideas on dairy. My zero grazing structures was their innovation” she says.
Sharon has transformed her farm using ideas from experts in farming. She has dug trenches which act as terraces and at the same time harvest rain water. She also harvests water from every roof in her compound.
Kiserian Picnic Site a new Darling
by eCentury Reporter
A picnic site three kilometres off Magadi-Kiserian-Isinya junction has become a darling of people mainly from Nairobi, Nakuru, Ngong, Thika, Rongai and Kiserian seeking for a nice place to relax as individuals, groups, families or corporate.
It is the Olooltepes Ranch Picnic Site which began hardly two years ago. It began small; a dream by two men, William Mopel, 66 and Ernest Karuga, 57.
Ernest Karuga the founding manager convinced Mopel the owner of the property that it was a viable project. Karuga observes, “I saw the viability of the picnic in this area. I saw the gold in this project. I insisted and convinced Mopel that it was a great place and a grand idea. First, the place is spacious, has huge and numerous Acacia trees. And secondly, it is located on a wind path. The place is ever windy even during those very dry and hot seasons. Third it is located on a panoramic angle with ideal view of Ngong Hills, Kiserian and Rongai town. Picnic makers have the opportunity to enjoy vast sights particularly the pinnacle of Ngong; the hill with its seven peaks.”
He further adds, “I saw the potential of this place. I was right. I am not surprised as the place grows from strength to strength”.
According to Karuga, the project started simple. First, they made a sign post which simply read ‘OLOOLTEPES RANCH PICNIC SITE, OPEN WEEKENDS /PUBLIC HOLIDAYS FROM 9:30 -6PM. ALL ARE WELCOME. This was fixed on the Junction where Isinya road meets the Magadi-Kiserian highway. Before long, people began to throng the place. At first, he notes, “we served pioneers free of charge. Many came to find out about us and what we offered. We didn’t have toilets. We didn‘t have a single structure. We started under a tree. It was an open air affair. Even then our patrons came in their numbers. It is our policy to let the place remain as natural as can be. Here there is plenty of oxygen, plenty of room.”
“We didn’t advertise. When we began to operate, we looked forward to October 20th which is a public holiday since we started the business around that time, but not many people came. Initially we operated on weekends from 8am to 6pm”, Karuga said.
Locals are given priority in recruitment. Many of them have trained on the job. We are learning every day. We believe in quality service. We give our customers the best we can. That is why they have solely been our own ambassadors. They have recommended us to their friends.
Professionals frequent the place. We receive pilots, engineers and all.”
He further reveals that by last year the business was booming. Construction of buildings started in February 2008 and by July the same year the structures were complete. Initially they began with two wokers which is in complete contrast to today’s 20.
He concludes, “Last Christmas was our greatest time. We received over 2000 guests; families, individuals and groups. We slaughtered over 50 goats.”
The two men William and Kuraga have since been joined by two youthful graduates from Nazarene and Kenyatta universities. They are 25-year old Ruth Mopel, a Bachelor of Commerce graduate of Nazarene and Sammy Leyan, 24 a B. Sc graduate of Kenyatta University.
Ruth who manages the kitchen had these to say, “I have always wanted the real feel of business. I love entrepreneurship. This place has given me the freedom to innovate and create. I enjoy my work. It is wonderful to grow with the business. This was my first job and I enjoy every bit of it. We now have two professional chefs. It is my job to make sure that everything is in place. I make sure we have all the requirements and supplies to the kitchen. I make sure everything runs smoothly. ”
On the long term objectives of the picnic Ruth revealed, “We intend to link up with tour firms particularly those visiting Amboseli Game Reserve. We want the tourists to spend their nights here. We intend to organize Ngong Hill climbing camps. We also intend to introduce fishing, we have huge dams around. ”
Ruth and Sammy are sister and brother - William Mopel’s children. They are visionary, energetic and passionate in their work.
The business receives high profile guests. According to Sammy, they even receive guests who come in helicopters. In April last year during a tree planting exercise, they were honoured to receive both the President, Mwai Kibaki and the Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
As one enters the Olootepes Picnic grounds he or she notices individuals, and groups scattered in the vast compound. Some drive almost 500 metres away from the centre. Some leave their cars at the site and walk a short distance to secure favourable locations. Others settle in a quiet place where they enjoy their privacy over a delicious Nyama Choma meal and drinks.
A picnic site three kilometres off Magadi-Kiserian-Isinya junction has become a darling of people mainly from Nairobi, Nakuru, Ngong, Thika, Rongai and Kiserian seeking for a nice place to relax as individuals, groups, families or corporate.
It is the Olooltepes Ranch Picnic Site which began hardly two years ago. It began small; a dream by two men, William Mopel, 66 and Ernest Karuga, 57.
Ernest Karuga the founding manager convinced Mopel the owner of the property that it was a viable project. Karuga observes, “I saw the viability of the picnic in this area. I saw the gold in this project. I insisted and convinced Mopel that it was a great place and a grand idea. First, the place is spacious, has huge and numerous Acacia trees. And secondly, it is located on a wind path. The place is ever windy even during those very dry and hot seasons. Third it is located on a panoramic angle with ideal view of Ngong Hills, Kiserian and Rongai town. Picnic makers have the opportunity to enjoy vast sights particularly the pinnacle of Ngong; the hill with its seven peaks.”
He further adds, “I saw the potential of this place. I was right. I am not surprised as the place grows from strength to strength”.
According to Karuga, the project started simple. First, they made a sign post which simply read ‘OLOOLTEPES RANCH PICNIC SITE, OPEN WEEKENDS /PUBLIC HOLIDAYS FROM 9:30 -6PM. ALL ARE WELCOME. This was fixed on the Junction where Isinya road meets the Magadi-Kiserian highway. Before long, people began to throng the place. At first, he notes, “we served pioneers free of charge. Many came to find out about us and what we offered. We didn’t have toilets. We didn‘t have a single structure. We started under a tree. It was an open air affair. Even then our patrons came in their numbers. It is our policy to let the place remain as natural as can be. Here there is plenty of oxygen, plenty of room.”
“We didn’t advertise. When we began to operate, we looked forward to October 20th which is a public holiday since we started the business around that time, but not many people came. Initially we operated on weekends from 8am to 6pm”, Karuga said.
Locals are given priority in recruitment. Many of them have trained on the job. We are learning every day. We believe in quality service. We give our customers the best we can. That is why they have solely been our own ambassadors. They have recommended us to their friends.
Professionals frequent the place. We receive pilots, engineers and all.”
He further reveals that by last year the business was booming. Construction of buildings started in February 2008 and by July the same year the structures were complete. Initially they began with two wokers which is in complete contrast to today’s 20.
He concludes, “Last Christmas was our greatest time. We received over 2000 guests; families, individuals and groups. We slaughtered over 50 goats.”
The two men William and Kuraga have since been joined by two youthful graduates from Nazarene and Kenyatta universities. They are 25-year old Ruth Mopel, a Bachelor of Commerce graduate of Nazarene and Sammy Leyan, 24 a B. Sc graduate of Kenyatta University.
Ruth who manages the kitchen had these to say, “I have always wanted the real feel of business. I love entrepreneurship. This place has given me the freedom to innovate and create. I enjoy my work. It is wonderful to grow with the business. This was my first job and I enjoy every bit of it. We now have two professional chefs. It is my job to make sure that everything is in place. I make sure we have all the requirements and supplies to the kitchen. I make sure everything runs smoothly. ”
On the long term objectives of the picnic Ruth revealed, “We intend to link up with tour firms particularly those visiting Amboseli Game Reserve. We want the tourists to spend their nights here. We intend to organize Ngong Hill climbing camps. We also intend to introduce fishing, we have huge dams around. ”
Ruth and Sammy are sister and brother - William Mopel’s children. They are visionary, energetic and passionate in their work.
The business receives high profile guests. According to Sammy, they even receive guests who come in helicopters. In April last year during a tree planting exercise, they were honoured to receive both the President, Mwai Kibaki and the Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
As one enters the Olootepes Picnic grounds he or she notices individuals, and groups scattered in the vast compound. Some drive almost 500 metres away from the centre. Some leave their cars at the site and walk a short distance to secure favourable locations. Others settle in a quiet place where they enjoy their privacy over a delicious Nyama Choma meal and drinks.
The Kenya National Archives: Historical Landmine
By eCentury Team
The Kenya National Archives is a historical goldmine in the heart of Nairobi yet it is one of the least visited places in the city centre. The eCentury team visited the National Archive recently and discovered rich historical facts which the average Kenyan has no idea of. The map of Kenya as an East African Protectorate in 1918 is one such interesting discovery. Did you know, for instance, that Kenya was then a mere province with only four districts under it? Or that three quarters of L.Turkana was part of Uganda in Rudolf Province? Kenya had also extended to Somalia in a province then known as Jubaland. The province had four districts.Kenya then was larger than what it is today. It extended from Kisumu to the West to Kismayu to the East. At that time Kenya’s neighbours were Italian Somaliland to the East, to the North were Abyssinia and Anglo-Egyptian Sudan, to the West was Uganda and Tanganyika to the South.
The East African Protectorate had eight provinces namely: Nyanza, Naivasha, Ukamba, Kenya, Tanaland, Jubaland, North Frontier, and Seyidie. Nyanza then had five districts -- Kisumu, North Kavirondo (now Western Province) Nandi, Lumbwa (Kericho and Sotik) and South Kavirondo (Kisii,Kuria). In other words, present day Nyanza and Western provinces constituted one province. Nandi and Kericho, currently in Rift Valley, were also part of Nyanza. In 1918, the present-day Rift Valley was known as Naivasha Province. Naivasha province had six districts: Turkana, Uasin Gishu, Ravine, Laikipia, Naivasha and Masai Reserve. The Masai Reserve is the present-day Kajiado and Narok districts. Naivasha district included current day Nakuru and Naivasha districts. Ravine district covered Keiyo, Baringo, Koibatek and Pokot.
Interestingly, the name Kenya only stood for a province with four districts: Nyeri, Meru, Fort Hall, and Embu. Ukamba Province had four districts namely Kitui, Machakos, Nairobi and Kikuyu (Kiambu). The Tanaland Province had three districts: Tana River, Lamu and Witu Sultanate while Jubaland Province had four districts: Afmadu, Serenu, Kismayu and Alexandria.
Seyidie Province had five districts namely: Teita, Vanga, Niyika, Mombasa and Malindi. The Kenyan map we know today began to take shape in 1902 when Nyanza and Naivasha provinces were transferred to Kenya from Uganda. In 1925, Jubaland Province was transferred to Somalia and in 1926 Rudolf Province of Uganda became part of Kenya. The new territory eventually assumed the name ‘Kenya‘, which was then name of a province that several years later was to
be known as the ‘Gema region’.
The Coastal strip - now Kenya’s Coast Province - was leased from the Sultanate of Zanzibar in 1895. Idi Amin Dada, the Uganda dictator who overthrew Milton Obote in 1971, may have been a raving lunatic. But he had point when in the early 1970s, he declared that he wanted back part of Kenya which was Ugandan territory up to 1901. While Amin had gotten his historical facts right, he forgot that East African protectorate, just like the rest of colonised Africa, was like the estate of the British empire that could be moved, named and renamed whatever way that served the empire’s interests best. Thus the British moved part of Kenya to Somalia or part of Uganda to Kenya just the way a farmer might rearrange the paddocking of his land.
The partitioning of Africa did not involve the Africans thus Kenya’s geogenetic make up was designed by the British possibly as dictated by the hand of God. The tribal and Ethnographic map of colonial Kenya classified ethnic communities as follows; Nilo-Hamatic, Cushitic Hamatic and Bantu. The Cushitic Hamatic included: Orma, Boran, Gabbra, Somali, Sanya (Ariangulo), Gelubba (Merille) and Boni. They grouped the Nilo-Hamatic into Nandi, Suk (Pokot), Koni (Elgonyi), Pok, Merkweta (Marakwet) Endo, Geyo, Tugen (Kamasia), Nandi, Terik (Nyang‘ori) Kipsigis, Teso Group as Itesyo (Elgumi, Wamia) Karasuk, Turkana, and Karamojong, Maasai Group listed as Naasai,Sampur (Samburu) Loikop, Njems (Njamusi) .
They further classified the Kikuyu Group as Kikuyu, Embu, Meru and Kamba. Gisu Group as Bukusu (Kitosh) and Luyia group as Samia, Gwe, Khanyo (Tindi), Hanga (Wanga) Fafoyo (Warach), Tsotso, Kakaletwa-Lewi Lunyala, Kisa,Tiriki,Marima, Kakamega-Isukha,Idaho,Nyole (Nyore), Tachoni (Tatsoni), Logoli (Maragoli-Lurogoli) and Gusii group as Kisii (Kosova), Suba , Kuria (Tende). It is interesting how the colonialists treated the Africans and their history. These records exist as a point of reference and much as relics of the past. It is part of history.
The Kenya National Archives is a historical goldmine in the heart of Nairobi yet it is one of the least visited places in the city centre. The eCentury team visited the National Archive recently and discovered rich historical facts which the average Kenyan has no idea of. The map of Kenya as an East African Protectorate in 1918 is one such interesting discovery. Did you know, for instance, that Kenya was then a mere province with only four districts under it? Or that three quarters of L.Turkana was part of Uganda in Rudolf Province? Kenya had also extended to Somalia in a province then known as Jubaland. The province had four districts.Kenya then was larger than what it is today. It extended from Kisumu to the West to Kismayu to the East. At that time Kenya’s neighbours were Italian Somaliland to the East, to the North were Abyssinia and Anglo-Egyptian Sudan, to the West was Uganda and Tanganyika to the South.
The East African Protectorate had eight provinces namely: Nyanza, Naivasha, Ukamba, Kenya, Tanaland, Jubaland, North Frontier, and Seyidie. Nyanza then had five districts -- Kisumu, North Kavirondo (now Western Province) Nandi, Lumbwa (Kericho and Sotik) and South Kavirondo (Kisii,Kuria). In other words, present day Nyanza and Western provinces constituted one province. Nandi and Kericho, currently in Rift Valley, were also part of Nyanza. In 1918, the present-day Rift Valley was known as Naivasha Province. Naivasha province had six districts: Turkana, Uasin Gishu, Ravine, Laikipia, Naivasha and Masai Reserve. The Masai Reserve is the present-day Kajiado and Narok districts. Naivasha district included current day Nakuru and Naivasha districts. Ravine district covered Keiyo, Baringo, Koibatek and Pokot.
Interestingly, the name Kenya only stood for a province with four districts: Nyeri, Meru, Fort Hall, and Embu. Ukamba Province had four districts namely Kitui, Machakos, Nairobi and Kikuyu (Kiambu). The Tanaland Province had three districts: Tana River, Lamu and Witu Sultanate while Jubaland Province had four districts: Afmadu, Serenu, Kismayu and Alexandria.
Seyidie Province had five districts namely: Teita, Vanga, Niyika, Mombasa and Malindi. The Kenyan map we know today began to take shape in 1902 when Nyanza and Naivasha provinces were transferred to Kenya from Uganda. In 1925, Jubaland Province was transferred to Somalia and in 1926 Rudolf Province of Uganda became part of Kenya. The new territory eventually assumed the name ‘Kenya‘, which was then name of a province that several years later was to
be known as the ‘Gema region’.
The Coastal strip - now Kenya’s Coast Province - was leased from the Sultanate of Zanzibar in 1895. Idi Amin Dada, the Uganda dictator who overthrew Milton Obote in 1971, may have been a raving lunatic. But he had point when in the early 1970s, he declared that he wanted back part of Kenya which was Ugandan territory up to 1901. While Amin had gotten his historical facts right, he forgot that East African protectorate, just like the rest of colonised Africa, was like the estate of the British empire that could be moved, named and renamed whatever way that served the empire’s interests best. Thus the British moved part of Kenya to Somalia or part of Uganda to Kenya just the way a farmer might rearrange the paddocking of his land.
The partitioning of Africa did not involve the Africans thus Kenya’s geogenetic make up was designed by the British possibly as dictated by the hand of God. The tribal and Ethnographic map of colonial Kenya classified ethnic communities as follows; Nilo-Hamatic, Cushitic Hamatic and Bantu. The Cushitic Hamatic included: Orma, Boran, Gabbra, Somali, Sanya (Ariangulo), Gelubba (Merille) and Boni. They grouped the Nilo-Hamatic into Nandi, Suk (Pokot), Koni (Elgonyi), Pok, Merkweta (Marakwet) Endo, Geyo, Tugen (Kamasia), Nandi, Terik (Nyang‘ori) Kipsigis, Teso Group as Itesyo (Elgumi, Wamia) Karasuk, Turkana, and Karamojong, Maasai Group listed as Naasai,Sampur (Samburu) Loikop, Njems (Njamusi) .
They further classified the Kikuyu Group as Kikuyu, Embu, Meru and Kamba. Gisu Group as Bukusu (Kitosh) and Luyia group as Samia, Gwe, Khanyo (Tindi), Hanga (Wanga) Fafoyo (Warach), Tsotso, Kakaletwa-Lewi Lunyala, Kisa,Tiriki,Marima, Kakamega-Isukha,Idaho,Nyole (Nyore), Tachoni (Tatsoni), Logoli (Maragoli-Lurogoli) and Gusii group as Kisii (Kosova), Suba , Kuria (Tende). It is interesting how the colonialists treated the Africans and their history. These records exist as a point of reference and much as relics of the past. It is part of history.
Kenya can become a First World
eCentury Editorial
Welcome to the maiden edition of The eCentury . We are a trendsetter, a paper anchored on a vision to promote new ideas and better options. We envision to transform print media into a people driven process. Our focus is to be unique, innovative and empowering. Our calling is to shift attention to institutions, individuals and ideas which seek to energize every Kenyan to create wealth and unleash their creative brainpower. Kenya is said to be the third most unequal nation in the world. The traditional media has for decades focused on conflicts which spur their circulation. It has widened ethnic divide and political differences. We shall strive to change all that. It is an awesome task.
The 21st Century is a paradigm-shifting epoch in human history. Globalization is the trend; the internet is the heart beat. This is a century of great and fundamental changes. The world is shifting from industrial age to information. There is a shift to knowledge economy where ideas will be what the land and rain is to the farmer. Hence brainpower is the centrepiece of this century. We shall therefore become a springboard of new ideas and new trends in Kenya, Africa and the World.
We shall thus call on Kenyans and Africans in general to arise. We must get rid of petty differences for the common good of the nation. All the 42 communities should embrace each other. Every Kenyan should dream dreams of prosperity and move away from hopelessness and dependency syndrome. It is time we redefine our world. It is time we innovate, invent and recreate our nation afresh.
The days of IDPs, tribal wars, grand corruption, mediocrity and politics of bribery and deception should come to an abrupt end. It is time we become builders of business empires, great institutions and great organizations. It is time we believe in our God-given talents, resources and creativity.
The fact that Barack Obama, a first generation American-Kenyan is the president of a super
power is a proof that we as a people and as a race have what it takes to transform our nation, our economy and our history.
We should focus our attention on excellence of global and international standards. We should stop comparing ourselves to failed states. We should dare compare ourselves to European and American standards and beyond. That is what Singaporeans under Lee Kuan did. They rejected mediocrity and corruption which characterized the nations of Asia. Lee Kuan became the PM of Singapore in 1965, then with a per-capita of $400. He retired in 1990 when per-capita income was $12,000. Nine years into retirement Singapore clocked over $20,000 to be exact $24,500 in 2004.
Was this a miracle from heaven? No they set themselves to achieve it. Today Singapore Port is the leading and the best run port in the world. Singapore is the financial centre of Asia and the world. This did not come from the blues. They outlawed corruption and embraced intellectual capital. The youth of Singapore are the best in Maths and the Sciences in the world. They lead the whole globe in academic scores. Are they more endowed than us? No. They as a nation decided and made their minds to be the best they can be. We too can attain that. Singapore aspires to be an intelligent nation by 2015 and India an industrial nation by 2020. Singapore became a first world by 1998. Within 30 years they achieved what no other third country has achieved.
If we follow the footsteps of Singapore by 2050 we shall become a first world.
Is this possible?
Yes! We have more potential brains than Singapore. We have over 40million people while Singapore mere 4 million. We have nearly 600,000 sq.km area of land as Singapore is mere 640 sq.km.
The eCENTURY we believe, is a paper whose time is now. We strive to become a paper of the 21st Century.
Welcome to the maiden edition of The eCentury . We are a trendsetter, a paper anchored on a vision to promote new ideas and better options. We envision to transform print media into a people driven process. Our focus is to be unique, innovative and empowering. Our calling is to shift attention to institutions, individuals and ideas which seek to energize every Kenyan to create wealth and unleash their creative brainpower. Kenya is said to be the third most unequal nation in the world. The traditional media has for decades focused on conflicts which spur their circulation. It has widened ethnic divide and political differences. We shall strive to change all that. It is an awesome task.
The 21st Century is a paradigm-shifting epoch in human history. Globalization is the trend; the internet is the heart beat. This is a century of great and fundamental changes. The world is shifting from industrial age to information. There is a shift to knowledge economy where ideas will be what the land and rain is to the farmer. Hence brainpower is the centrepiece of this century. We shall therefore become a springboard of new ideas and new trends in Kenya, Africa and the World.
We shall thus call on Kenyans and Africans in general to arise. We must get rid of petty differences for the common good of the nation. All the 42 communities should embrace each other. Every Kenyan should dream dreams of prosperity and move away from hopelessness and dependency syndrome. It is time we redefine our world. It is time we innovate, invent and recreate our nation afresh.
The days of IDPs, tribal wars, grand corruption, mediocrity and politics of bribery and deception should come to an abrupt end. It is time we become builders of business empires, great institutions and great organizations. It is time we believe in our God-given talents, resources and creativity.
The fact that Barack Obama, a first generation American-Kenyan is the president of a super
power is a proof that we as a people and as a race have what it takes to transform our nation, our economy and our history.
We should focus our attention on excellence of global and international standards. We should stop comparing ourselves to failed states. We should dare compare ourselves to European and American standards and beyond. That is what Singaporeans under Lee Kuan did. They rejected mediocrity and corruption which characterized the nations of Asia. Lee Kuan became the PM of Singapore in 1965, then with a per-capita of $400. He retired in 1990 when per-capita income was $12,000. Nine years into retirement Singapore clocked over $20,000 to be exact $24,500 in 2004.
Was this a miracle from heaven? No they set themselves to achieve it. Today Singapore Port is the leading and the best run port in the world. Singapore is the financial centre of Asia and the world. This did not come from the blues. They outlawed corruption and embraced intellectual capital. The youth of Singapore are the best in Maths and the Sciences in the world. They lead the whole globe in academic scores. Are they more endowed than us? No. They as a nation decided and made their minds to be the best they can be. We too can attain that. Singapore aspires to be an intelligent nation by 2015 and India an industrial nation by 2020. Singapore became a first world by 1998. Within 30 years they achieved what no other third country has achieved.
If we follow the footsteps of Singapore by 2050 we shall become a first world.
Is this possible?
Yes! We have more potential brains than Singapore. We have over 40million people while Singapore mere 4 million. We have nearly 600,000 sq.km area of land as Singapore is mere 640 sq.km.
The eCENTURY we believe, is a paper whose time is now. We strive to become a paper of the 21st Century.
Land Issue and Federalism in Kenya
eCentury News Analyst
The issue of federal system agitated by leaders mostly from Rift Valley, Nyanza, Western, North Eastern and Coast is a thorn and a sensitive topic in Kenya. In the past, smaller communities agitated for a federal system or Majimbo. In Uganda the federal system is agitated for by the populous Baganda community. The Baganda community was however appeased by Museveni with an autonomous kingdom without political power and so were other communities which traditionally had kings. Most Ugandan communities have traditional systems which deal with cultural and ceremonial issues. A federal political system as agitated by Baganda has not been given a green light by the past and current governments. The smaller tribes are against the federal system unlike in Kenya; the reason being in Uganda no native land was grabbed or alienated by any power. The colonial administration did not settle Whites in Uganda hence no community was displaced thus no land was lost.
The same is true for Tanzania. The defeat of the German colonial power in the World War II ended German occupation. Tanzania was thus put under control of United Nations. Land was never an issue in Tanzania before and after independence. Hence Kenya is a unique case; it was occupied by the white settlers as the natives were displaced and jammed in what was then known as native reserves. The Africans were crowded in tiny corners of the nation’s native districts.
After independence the Kenyatta administration and subsequent administrations ignored the plight of the indigenous people whose land had been stolen by colonialists. From independence the communities where the presidents hailed were favoured in land allocation. It was during Kenyatta administration that land was grabbed by the rich and the powerful and the same took place during Moi era. Land became a preserve for the politcal elite. The native communities who occupied the land in pre-colonial era were ignored in land distribution, hence land remains a real emotive issue in Kenya.
The agitation for a federal system of government by communities whose land was grabbed is seen by the powerful groups as a threat to their grip on power. On the other hand, the desire for devolution is an attempt to give power to the locals to chart their destinies.
Kenya unlike other East African nations is driven by phobia among the communities, big or small; locals or immigrant communities, and the fear of the empowerment of the poor by the political elite.
Kenya thus is at crossroads; it is a nation faced with tough options.
The communities in Rift Valley and Coast who feel marginalized in land allocation and who perceive immigrants with suspicion have concerns that must be addressed. Communities who have settled in these regions and who see themselves as victims of hate and tribal wars too have genuine fears.
The way forward for Kenya is to take the diverse interests head-on. She must listen to herself. The fears of the big and the small tribes should be addressed. The gap between the rich and the poor should be equally be addressed. Ignoring them will only exacerbate the issue now which may erupt tomorrow.
The issue of federal system agitated by leaders mostly from Rift Valley, Nyanza, Western, North Eastern and Coast is a thorn and a sensitive topic in Kenya. In the past, smaller communities agitated for a federal system or Majimbo. In Uganda the federal system is agitated for by the populous Baganda community. The Baganda community was however appeased by Museveni with an autonomous kingdom without political power and so were other communities which traditionally had kings. Most Ugandan communities have traditional systems which deal with cultural and ceremonial issues. A federal political system as agitated by Baganda has not been given a green light by the past and current governments. The smaller tribes are against the federal system unlike in Kenya; the reason being in Uganda no native land was grabbed or alienated by any power. The colonial administration did not settle Whites in Uganda hence no community was displaced thus no land was lost.
The same is true for Tanzania. The defeat of the German colonial power in the World War II ended German occupation. Tanzania was thus put under control of United Nations. Land was never an issue in Tanzania before and after independence. Hence Kenya is a unique case; it was occupied by the white settlers as the natives were displaced and jammed in what was then known as native reserves. The Africans were crowded in tiny corners of the nation’s native districts.
After independence the Kenyatta administration and subsequent administrations ignored the plight of the indigenous people whose land had been stolen by colonialists. From independence the communities where the presidents hailed were favoured in land allocation. It was during Kenyatta administration that land was grabbed by the rich and the powerful and the same took place during Moi era. Land became a preserve for the politcal elite. The native communities who occupied the land in pre-colonial era were ignored in land distribution, hence land remains a real emotive issue in Kenya.
The agitation for a federal system of government by communities whose land was grabbed is seen by the powerful groups as a threat to their grip on power. On the other hand, the desire for devolution is an attempt to give power to the locals to chart their destinies.
Kenya unlike other East African nations is driven by phobia among the communities, big or small; locals or immigrant communities, and the fear of the empowerment of the poor by the political elite.
Kenya thus is at crossroads; it is a nation faced with tough options.
The communities in Rift Valley and Coast who feel marginalized in land allocation and who perceive immigrants with suspicion have concerns that must be addressed. Communities who have settled in these regions and who see themselves as victims of hate and tribal wars too have genuine fears.
The way forward for Kenya is to take the diverse interests head-on. She must listen to herself. The fears of the big and the small tribes should be addressed. The gap between the rich and the poor should be equally be addressed. Ignoring them will only exacerbate the issue now which may erupt tomorrow.
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