People Daily July 17th Monday Edition

Why imported cars will cost you more Monday, July 17, 2023 NO. www.pd.co.ke // www.epaper.pd.co.ke 07855 Ke nya’s Newspaper NO1. FREE Kenya’s big attraction: Wildbeest migration on in Mara Tax pinch: Kenyans will be forced to pay nearly Sh100,000 more for a Sh1 million vehicle following review of EAC levies from 25 per cent to 35 per cent in Kenya Kwanza move to spur local manufacturing and attract investment after entering bi-lateral trade deals PAGE 4 We have no apologies for working with Ruto, vow ODM rebels PAGE 13 Courts slow down State plans PAGE 2 African presidents in Nairobi for talks President William Ruto poses with his peers during a mid-year co-ordination meeting of the African Union at the UN Nairobi offices, yesterday. HirAm OmOndi/PCS  Justice Mugure Thande News Beat PG 3 PG 7

Katiba Institute filed a petition to challenge the appointment process. In a three-judge ruling, the court said public participation in the creation of the CAS post was only conducted for 23 occupants and that the creation of the additional 27 occupants did not adhere to the constitutional requirement of public participation. Parliament declined to vet them saying it had no constitutional mandate to do so but they were sworn in at a function in Statehouse presided by President Ruto in March. The court also barred the appointees, the majority of whom were political loyalists of Ruto but had been trounced at the ballot during the August General Elections, from earning a salary, remuneration and any benefit pending the conclusion of the case. Ruto’s administration A petition filed to block the government from implementing the controversial Finance law that Ruto assented to towards the end of last month is the latest tussle, and the biggest blow to Ruto’s administration, pitying the executive and the judiciary. The High Court last week extended orders barring the National Treasury from implementing the controversial Finance Act, 2023 after dismissing an application by the government to lift the freeze. In her ruling, Justice Mugure Thande said on Monday that the Treasury Cabinet Secretary Njuguna Ndung’u did not convince the court why the earlier order should be suspended adding that from the submissions of all parties that argued before her, the balance tilted in favour of the petitioners. “Upon evaluation of the submissions, I have no difficulty finding that the petitioners have established a case with a probability of success,” Justice Thande said amid claims by Attorney General Justin Muturi that operations of the government risk breaking to a halt since the order had suspended many budgetary approaches. Suspend implementation Lawyers Otiende Amollo and Daniel Maanzo representing Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah who is among the petitioners in the Finance Act case urged the court to suspend its implementation until the case is determined arguing that it will subject Kenyans to slavery and servitude. According to Omtatah the Act is unconstitutional as it does not spell out how revenue will be raised to fund the proposed expenditure adding that it was illegal for the Members of Parliament to pass the Bill without the concurrence of Senators. “You cannot tax Kenyans without telling them how much money you intend to raise. Similarly, the power to tax people is anchored on the law which requires the full participation of the two Houses (National Assembly and Senate),” Omtatah said. In his submission, lawyer Amollo termed the entire Finance Act as procedurally unconstitutional faulting Speakers Amason Kingi (Senate) and Moses Wetangula (National Assembly) for permitting the introduction of new clauses on the floor of the House without public participation. Though the President has not come out openly to castigate the judiciary for reversing those decisions, highly placed Ruto’s allies who occupy the inner circle of the Kenya Kwanza alliance are giving the courts a serious look. Early this month Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi accused the Chief Justice Martha Koome-led arm of the government of disregarding the principle of public interest faulting the judiciary for suspending the whole Finance law yet the bone of contention was just a ‘procedural issue’ which could have been resolved through an alternative litigation mechanism. 2 NEWS BEAT PEOPLE DAILY / Monday, July 17, 2023 by Samuel Kariuki @PeopleDailyKe One year after President William Ruto was sworn in office the Judiciary has overturned some of his key decisions in the running of the nascent administration testing the relations between the Executice and the courts. Under Ruto’s administration, a dalliance between the Judiciary and the executive had started blooming immediately after the ruling Kenya Kwanza coalition ascended into power. Since being sworn in after winning the presidential petition at Supreme Court that had been lodged by his archrival Azimio la Umoja leader Raila Odinga, Ruto was keen to make amends with the judiciary that was dealt a blow due to a strained relationship with his predecessor Uhuru Kenyatta’s regime. During his swearing-in ceremony in September last year, judicial matters were among the issues that dominated the talks in Ruto’s speech. On top of giving a lifeline to the judges who had been rejected by his predecessor by appointing them, Ruto pledged to increase budgetary allocations to the judiciary which he honoured in his inaugural budget last month. “To consolidate the place of the judiciary in our constitutional and democratic dispensation, my administration will respect judicial decisions while we cement the place of Kenya as a country anchored on democracy and the rule of law. My administration will scale up the budgetary allocation to the judiciary by an additional Sh3 billion annually for the next five years,” President Ruto stated during his inaugural speech. But just when Ruto is settling to march forward with his administration, he encountered missteps after the judiciary repealed key decisions which are critical in his governance. Ruto first run into loggerheads with the judiciary in May after he appointed a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate the Shakahola deaths and religious organisations in the country a move that was challenged by Azimio in the court. Constitutional institutions While determining the case, High Court said that it would not be prudent to let the commission commence its sittings when there are legal contentions indicating it will hijack other constitutional institutions’ (Parliament and Police) mandate to investigate the matter. In quick succession came the High Court’s declaration of 50 Chief Administration Secretaries (CAS) as unconstitutional after the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and Rulings expose love-hate Executive, Judiciary affair Recent declarations by judges point to a sour relationship between the two key arms of government by Zadock Angira @PeopleDailyKe Dwight Saragay, who was last week jailed for 20 years for murdering the former Venezuelan ambassador became the first senior diplomat to be charged with a serious criminal offence in Kenya. Almost everything about Saragay’s career and downfall were swift. Though the wheels of justice initially turned unusually slowly, everything else happened so fast and finally, Justice Roseline Korir has sentenced Saragay and his three co-accused persons. Saragay, Ahmed Omindo, Alex Wanyonyi and Moses Kalya have been sentenced to a cumulative 80 years in prison. Each of the accused will serve 20 years behind bars. In her judgement, Trial Judge Roselyn Korir said the State had proved their case against the accused persons apart from Chelogoi who was acquitted. Ex-police One of the accused persons, Moses Kalya, resigned from the police service and joined Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Reports indicate Kalya would attend court cases without the knowledge of his colleagues and supervisors at KRA. Interestingly, his colleagues only learnt of the case through the media when they were convicted in January 2023. Questions are now being raised on the nature of preemployment vetting by government institutions with reports indicating that Kalya would ask for off duty. The prosecution presented an array of witnesses, 37 in total and produced 39 exhibits that were used to pin down the four. The judge said the offence committed was serious and called for a custodial sentence. “I have considered the trial has taken an unduly long period and the accused persons must have undergone mental anguish during the pendency of trial,” Korir said. During mitigation, Dwight 45, said if runaway suspect Mohamed would be arrested, he would be vindicated. He pleaded for mercy and leniency. He is single and has no children but he maintained good relations with his family. Though since the trial began, Dwight said the separation from his family took a turn on him. He lamented over how his government treated him and how he was still tried yet his diplomatic status was still intact. Fonsescas’s family however asked the court to sentence the convicts as per the Kenyan law. They also asked the Kenyan government to consider compensating their family as they regret losing her life. The Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (1961) states that it was agreed as international law that all diplomats were considered not susceptible to lawsuit or prosecution under the host country’s laws. If they are to be charged, the immunity must first be waived, following a procedure, since they enjoy immunity from criminal proceedings. However, Saragay -who rose very fast in the Venezuelan Foreign Service -was stripped of his immunity by his country the following day, and placed in a police cell at the Gigiri police station. Within 24 hours, Saragay had been stripped of his immunity and placed in police custody, and interestingly enough, the Foreign Service of Venezuela never objected, at all. Suspects in Venezuela envoy murder jailed after 20-year trial Three-judge Bench of Justice’s Hedwig Ong’undi, Kanyi Kimondo and Visram Aleem Alnashir during the hearing of the CAS petition at Milimani Law Courts. recently. PD/CHARLES MATHAI JUDICIARY-EXECUTIVE TIFF Under Ruto’s administration, a dalliance between the Judiciary and the executive had started blooming Early this month Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi accused the Chief Justice Martha Koome-led arm of the government of disregarding the principle of public interest faulting the judiciary WORLD NEWS Page 17 Sudan army back in Jeddah as war enters fourth month OPINION Page 11 Nepotism augurs ill for country’s growth prospects POINTERS WEATHER TODAY Nairobi 24° Mombasa 28° Kisumu 29° Nyeri 22° Kitui 26° Wajir 33°

Monday, July 17, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY NEWS BEAT 3 by George Sayagie @PeopleDailyKe It’s all systems go as the long-awaited annual wildebeest migration finally kicked off heralding full tourist bookings in lodges and camps in the Masai Mara Game Reserve. Masai Mara chief park Warden Stephen Ole Minis said the widely anticipated spectacle was delayed for weeks compared to previous years, as the precise timing of their movement is entirely dependent on seasonal rainfall patterns. Speaking yesterday at the sand river crossing point at the border of Kenya and Tanzania, Minis said international demand for travel to Kenya to see the Great Migration is extremely high surpassing bed capacity. The epic migration that started on Saturday has, however, signaled loads of tourists in Mara to witness what is famously called the ‘seventh new wonder of the world’. A spot-check in three top lodges in the Mara, MGM Muthu-Kekorok Lodge, JW Marriot Maasai Mara Lodge and Sarova Mara camp are fully booked for the next two months, posing challenges for operators looking to secure space for clients eager to witness the migration during Kenya’s peak season. Managers in the above hotels Yajit Kumarr and Stephen Shunai (MGM Muthu), Fairman Muhingi (JW Marriott) and Nicholas Maina (Sarova Mara) say there is difficulty in securing beds, especially at the top-end lodges who have had many pandemic-era bookings from 2020 and 2021 bumped into 2022 and beyond. “We are now seeking more space from other facilities outside the reserve as we are over booked. This is an indication that tourism this season is promising unlike the three previous years when Covid-19 locked tourists from coming to Kenya,” Shunai noted. Muhingi, the operation manager of JM Marriott Mara villas, said the bed occupancy is promising and they by Mathew Ndung’u @PeopleDailyKe National Highway Authority and the National Transport Security Authority have been urged to ensure roads countrywide are motorable in order to contain runaway road carnage. According to road users, the two gencies alongside the Transport Ministry are only heard and seen blaming motorists whenever accidents occur. “These people should make sure bumps are erected in all blackspots. They should also erect visible road signages for road users as they cruise along roads,” said a PCEA elder George Mugo. This was after last Friday’s fatal accident along the Nairobi/Nakuru highway accident involving 21 vehicles and which claimed the lives of a couple. The couple, Rev Moses Kirimi and Regina Kirimi were stationed at Kerwa PCEA and met their deaths just a kilometre away from their home. According to Kikuyu Sub-County police boss Ronald Kirui, the accident was caused by a motorist who was making a turn at the wrong place. Road users ask agencies to erect visible road signages CS Kuria told to keep off Kenyatta’s by Clement Kamaue @PeopleDailyKe A section of Gatundu South residents are up in arms against Trade, Industry and Investment Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria (pictured) over alleged attack on former President Uhuru Kenyatta and the larger Kenyatta family. Kuria, who was speaking during Ndumo ya Mt Kenya entertainment event at Gatundu Stadium last Sunday is said to have hurled unprintable epithets at the retired president and his family. The CS is also reported to have warned Uhuru against sabotaging President William Ruto’s government. Residents now want Kuria to apologise to the Kenyatta’s for the unsavory comments. Monica Njeri, a resident, said that despite the hate by Kuria, Uhuru remains adorable to them, owing to his mien and the social-economic developments he initiated when he was president. “Kuria should concentrate on restoring sanity in the macadamia sector that is dying. He was not appointed to be abusing people,” Njeri said. Njuguna Mwaura, an elderly man from Ng’enda Ward insisted that Gatundu South men are ready to pay debts owed to Kuria by the Kenyatta’s, if there are any. “Customarily, men fight each other because of two things; money and women. If the beef between Kuria and Uhuru is based on any of the two, we are ready to pay the ultimate price,” Mwaura said. were looking above 80 percent on average throughout the season. He attributes the high number of tourists to management, the new chief warden and county government who are putting in a lot of enfaces to implement the Masai Mara development plan that has brought back the Mara glory. Maina said they are optimistic to make a comeback after huge losses in the last three consecutive years when tourists cancelled their bookings due to Covid. “Most of us are now hosting tourists in manager’s houses, staff quarters after spaces have been surpassed,” he noted. American tourists who were in the Mara for a honeymoon holiday Hallie and Zac Yeni from Philadelphia PA in the United States, say they have had an experience of their lifetime in Mara and hailed Kenya as the safest destination in the world. Con the minister The two who work as Commercial Real Estate developer and Social Worker respectively, say they enjoyed the natural habitat, with a lot of wildlife, fresh air and safe to be unlike back at their home where the environment is so polluted and a lot of crime. “We are here for our honeymoon which was my dream. It has been amazing to be here in Kenya and see so many animals, including the wildebeest. It’s a break from our normal life back home which is more congested, gun shots all over, a lot of elegies, here it’s fresh air, we love Kenya,” said Hallie. Minis says the tourist peak season is the first after the Masai Mara management plan has been passed into law and is currently being implemented by Governor Patrick Ntutu-led administration. In the plan, zonation and visitor use scheme aimed at managing and regulating visitor use and impacts in the different MMNR zones is at the centre of the 10-year plan. County Executive Committee Member for Tourism and Wildlife Johnson Sipitiek said the zonation scheme, according to the management plan, establishes four categories of zone area which are high-use, low use, Mara River Ecological and MMNR buffer zone. “In the new law, the high use zones will be the focus of management efforts to enhance the reserve’s tourism product and provide a high quality, proactively managed, wildlife viewing experience for visitors,” said Sipitiek. Governor Ntutu, who is also the Tourism Committee Chair at the Council of Governors, has welcomed tourists from within and without to tour the Masai Mara Game Reserve to witness the wildebeest migration. “Since the beginning of this year, tourist attraction centres have been receiving visitors. From this month all the way to October, Masai Mara is at its peak due to the wildebeest migration,” Ntutu, who is at the UN Headquarters in New York on official duty, said on phone. Great wildebeest migration kicks off after weeks of delay Tourists seeking to witness natural spectacle may find themselves stranded without accommodation as hotels are fully booked Masai Mara Chief Park Warden Stephen Ole Minis Minis in an interview after wildebeests from Serengeti in Tanzania migrated into Masai Mara. PD/GEORGE SAYAGIE KUCCPS chief executive Dr Agnes Mercy Wahomeg. PD/FILE Over 13,000 slots open for training tutors in colleges by Irene Githinji @gitshee At least 13,439 slots are available in Teachers Training Colleges (TTC) for interested Kenyans, Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu has said. The CS launched the application for placement to diploma teacher training courses, an exercise to be handled by Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS). “For the second year running, the placement of trainees to the 32 public teacher training colleges will be handled by KUCCPS, which has opened its online portal for the application,” Machogu said. Applicants will be seeking to fill slots in the Diploma in Primary Teacher Education and Diploma in Early Childhood Teacher Education programmes. Speaking in Embu at the weekend, Machogu said the minimum requirement is a mean grade of C (plain) in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education examination, with no additional subject requirements. KUCCPS chief executive Dr Agnes Mercy Wahome said the portal will remain open until July 28. “This opportunity is for qualified KCSE certificate holders including non-Kenyan citizens who sat the exam in 2022 or earlier until the year NEED FOR SPACE Top lodges: Three top lodges are fully booked for the next two months, posing challenges for operators looking to secure space for clients. High number of tourists: This has been attributed to concerted effort by the county and other stakeholders to implement the Mara development plan that has revived its glory.

4 NEWS BEAT PEOPLE DAILY / Monday, July 17, 2023 car like Toyota’s Vitz goes for about Sh1.3 million, if the additional 10 per cent is effected, that price automatically climbs to about Sh1.41 million. Similarly, a local buyer keen on a Nissan Note model which was being sold locally (at car yard prices) at an average of Sh950,000, will now sell at Sh95,000 more at Sh1.045 million. Toyota’s Harrier– another popular car brand among Kenyan motorists which was until recently selling at an average price of Sh3 million, will now fetch in excess of Sh400,000 more with the new policy. In a telephone interview Thursday, Charles Munyori, the secretary general of the Kenya Auto Bazaar Association, a lobbying body for second-hand car dealers, said the new move will not only see a shrinkage in the volume of cars being imported into the country but also push some importers out of the business. Kenya imports an average of between by Steve Umidha @UmidhaSteve Potential car buyers will be hit hard by Kenya’s decision to raise duty on motor vehicles under the East African Community – EAC common external tariff, in a move that will force them to spend more to motorize their dream. Kenyan car dealers were last week hit by a 35 per cent import duty after the EAC approved a surprise application by Kenya’s top leadership to review upwards the import levies from 25 per cent, a – 10 per cent adjustment rate which has since seen a sharp increase in the cost of imported cars. Effectively, this means that vehicles imported into the country will now fetch a higher price locally by an extra Sh100,000 for an automobile originally being imported at Sh1 million for instance. Meaning an import buyer will purchase the same car at an average price of Sh1.1 million or more – before selling it at an even higher price to the local buyer. It also means that the same car price will now be 10 per cent cheaper in regional markets like Uganda and Rwanda which are also EAC member states. Ordinarily, a change in import duty impacts the excise and value-added tax (VAT) charges as the value is compounded for taxation purposes, including insurance and freight (CIF) charges as well as import declaration fees and railway development levy which are charged separately for the customs value. At the current market price of a popular Car yard in Nairobi. Prices of used and new cars will cost more. PD/ FILE KRA fails to hit Kenya Kwanza Sh3 trillion revenue target by Noel Wandera @PeopleDailyKe Despite increasing ordinary revenue collection by 6.7 per cent to Sh2.16 trillion in the financial year 2022/23, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has fallen short of the ruling coalition’s Sh3 trillion projection, amid tough economic challenges precipitated by the Russia-Ukraine conflict, a prolonged drought and inflation. When he ascended to power in September last year, President William Ruto’s administration revised the target by Sh969 billion from the Sh2.031 trillion envisioned by the taxman in the financial year 2021/22 to enable him fulfil his electoral pledges, but always faced an uphill task from a shrinking tax-base and tax evasion due to the hard economic conditions. “This was an over-ambitious target. While the economy is slowing, it is pretty hard to foresee such a robust collection,” Ronny Chokaa, a macro-economic analyst at Investment Bankers Genghis Capital said. The African Development Bank has projected a Gross Domestic Growth (GDP) of 5.6 per cent in 2023 growing to six per cent in 2024, driven by services and household consumption. Though the authority is exuding confidence of collecting Sh2.8 trillion by the end of the Financial Year 2023/24 and surpass the Sh3 trillion mark by Financial Year 2024/25, the taxation plans face headwinds, after the High Court extended a previous suspension in May and delaying Treasury Cabinet Secretary Njuguna Ndung’u from implementing the Finance Act 2023, a move likely to cripple the economy. Customs taxes KRA acting Commisioner General Rispah Simiyu, higher revenue performance was hampered by the slowed domestic economic growth in 2022, which went down to 4.8 per cent from 7.6 per cent in 2021. “This mirrors the World real Gross Domestic Growth (GDP) that decelerated to 3.4 per cent in 2022 from a growth of six per cent in 2021. The decelerated domestic economic growth was due to adverse impact of multiple shocks that affected the economy, including a prolonged drought, international conflicts that disrupted the supply chain among others,” Simiyu said. In the period under review, Simiyu said revenue collection grew by 37 per cent to Sh586.3 billion in the last five years from Sh1.58 trillion collected in the financial year 2018/19. Domestic Taxes registered a revenue growth of 8.5 per cent after collecting Sh1.407 trillion against a target of Sh1.481 trillion, while Customs taxes recorded a performance rate of 95.6 per cent with a collection of Sh754.1 billion. She said despite overall import values increasing by 15.3 per cent, Customs taxes performance was in part affected by growth in exemptions and remissions, which grew by 39.7 per cent, driven by special exemptions accorded to rice, maize, sugar, and cooking oil. These products account for 24.8 per cent of exemptions accorded in the FY 2022/2023. The special exemptions were part of the government’s strategies to mitigate against adverse effects of drought and to reduce the cost of living. KRA collected Sh6.6 billion as excise on betting against a target of Sh5.7 billion, while domestic Value Added Tax (VAT) collection stood at Sh272 billion, reflecting a growth of 11.3 per cent compared to the previous year. Corporation tax performed at 94.2 per cent with a collection of Sh263.8 billion, a nine per cent growth over the previous financial year, while the domestic excise tax head grew 2.8 per cent with a collection of Sh68.1 billion. Cost of imported cars to rise further as new taxes take effect Vehicles will fetch a higher price by an extra Sh100,000 for an automobile originally imported at Sh1 million NEW PRICES At the current market price of a popular car like Toyota’s Vitz goes for about Sh1.3 million, if the additional 10 per cent is effected, that price automatically climbs to about Sh1.41 million. A buyer keen on a Nissan Note model which was being sold locally (at car yard prices) at an average of Sh950,000, will now sell at Sh95,000 more at Sh1.045 million. Toyota’s Harrier– another popular car brand among Kenyan motorists which was until recently selling at an average price of Sh3 million, will now fetch in excess of Sh400,000 more with the new policy. 80,000 and 100,000 fully built vehicles every year and has an installed vehicle assembly capacity of slightly over 30,000 units – with the latter’s capacity believed to be held back by a deliberate delay by the government to implement a national automotive policy whose creation was intended to localize its new cars. “It will be left for those with the money. Assuming an importer who brought in 10 units before the new measure kicked in, based on that impact they will be forced to reduce that number to about seven or eight units, and this is going to affect buyers in the upper and lower end cadre. The ripple effect will be massive,” said Munyiri, who also said the impact will be aggravated by the strong dollar performance now, against the shilling. New buyers Nations like Kenya with a weak currency also have much higher levels of imports compared to exports, resulting in more supply than demand for such currencies on international foreign exchange markets—if they are freely traded. When currencies weaken against the US dollar, local prices rise, as much of what people buy, including essential items like food, are imported. In his view the new changes will not only affect the mitumba cars – as they are fondly known, but also new car buyers, since such vehicles attract excise duty ranging from 25 per cent to 35 per cent depending on the size of the engine and value-added tax of 16 per cent, payable cumulatively and in that order. “This will not only affect us but also new car buyers,” offered Munyiri. The majority of Kenyan motorists prefer to import second-hand vehicles as they are cheaper compared to the ones in local car dealerships. By cutting out the middleman, buyers can save up to 25 per cent in cost, even though the process of importing takes a bit more time and can be quite confusing for many first-time importers. New car dealers have sold just 4,803 total units between January and May 2023, according to figures by the Kenya Motor Industry Association (KMI) – a lobby for new vehicle dealers, or showroom cars. Treasury Cabinet Secretary Njuguna Ndung’u in his office. PD/FILE

Monday, July 17, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY NEWS BEAT 5 by Mathew Ndung’u, Dorcas Mbatia and Wangari Njuguna @PeopleDailyKe Religious leaders are ready to reconcile President William Ruto and his political nemesis Raila Odinga, Nairobi archdiocese Archbishop Philip Anyolo has said. Anyolo yesterday revealed that the interreligious group of spiritual leaders is ready to mediate talks between the as the rift between them continues to widen. He expressed concerns that disagreements between the two politicians could result in political intolerance between their supporters spread across the country. Archbishop further noted that while church leaders are already organising to unite the dual, a reunion depends on the willingness of the two. Speaking at St Bernadette Catholic Church in Ngoingwa area of Thika in Kiambu during a holy mass and confirmation service, Anyolo condemned demonstrations that have continued to spread in various parts of the country, saying they might get out of hand and cause anarchy. He stated that while the opposition team are constitutionally allowed to express themselves through demonstrations, they should not infringe the right of other Kenyans through destruction of both private and public property. “Enter into a dialogue and discuss issues. Dialogue will resolve things and if we never enter into dialogue about issues, we shall get half solutions of the very problems that we have and which might spill over even in the next generations. We want to ask our government and our leaders to exercise servant leadership that looks into the needs of the people and comes down to talk, just like families do,” he said. “We also want to talk to the opposition side to take notice that perhaps what is happening might go out of control, if they really care for the people of Kenya, then they should hold organised and wellplanned demonstrations that avoid any destruction of public and private property. Many Kenyans have died as a result of demonstrations and this situation, when it goes out of control, can be destructive,” he added. Hungry Kenyans As a result of the demonstrations, Anyolo revealed that hungry Kenyans, among them the demonstrators, have been streaming to Catholic churches in Nairobi begging for food, saying that the church cannot sustain food donations to the increasing number of hunger-stricken Kenyans. “This suffering has caused a lot of pain among the people because of starvation and increased cost of living. Of late, we have seen so many people coming to the archdiocese to look for food because they were not able to work because they were Clergy offers to reconcile Ruto, Raila Nairobi Archbishop Philip Anyolo expresses concern that the rift between the leaders could result in political intolerance Nairobi Archbishop Philip Anyolo addresses journalists at St Bernadette Catholic Church in Ngoingwa area of Thika, yesterday. PD/MATHEW NDUNGU demonstrating,” he stated. He at the same time urged the government to pay attention and find solutions for challenges bedevilling Kenyans, including the high cost of living to calm the tensions being witnessed in various parts of the country during mass protests. Anyolo further took issue with both government and opposition leaders for continuous use of vulgar, war and criminal languages, saying they were setting a ANYOLO ON DEMOS Condemns demos: Archbishop Philip Anyolo has condemned demons that have continued to spread in various parts of the country, saying they might get out of hand and cause anarchy. Residents told to keep off protests to protect tourism by Harrison Kivisu @PeopleDailyKe Kenya Kwanza leaders from Mombasa have asked residents to stay away from the planned anti-government protests to protect disruption of the coastal region economy. A section of Azimio leaders in Mombasa, led by Senator Mohamed Faki, held demonstrations in Mombasa over the tax burden and disrupted business activities including the tourism sector economy. EALA legislator Hassan Omar said ODM wants to destabilise the economy so that President William Ruto can appear like a lame duck. “Bringing demonstrations and protests in Mombasa is not good, we want to tell our friends that we will not accept this to happen in Mombasa,” said Omar. Omar, who was addressing a gathering during an empowerment drive at Junda, Kisauni, asked the coastal people to support the government agenda and stay away from the demonstrations. “We ask you the parents to tell your people to stay away from these protests, our ODM brothers have no agenda and they are leading us to protests to destroy our future,” said Omar. The EALA MP asked leaders affiliated to the Kenya Kwanza government to support all government programs aimed at fostering development in the coastal region. Omar slammed his UDA counterpart and Nyali MP Mohamed Ali for continuing to fuel divisions within the ruling party in Mombasa. However, Omar downplayed any divisions within the party assuring that the party will ensure democracy. EALA legislator Hassan Omar. PD/FILE by Mathew Ndung’u and Christine Musa @PeopleDailyKe The country cannot afford three days of mass protests at a time it has continued to suffer harsh economic times and slowed economic growth, Thika MP Alice Ng’ang’a has warned. Speaking at Kiang’ombe village during a food donation drive at the weekend, the MP lamented that looting, destruction and damage of property during the anti-government protests is detrimental and should be stopped.“Kenyans did not go to work on Wednesday and as such, the country lost money in billions.,” she said. Meanwhile, Kajiado Senator Seki Kanar is on the spot following his declaration that he will set up a Maasai vigilant group to fight protesters during the scheduled Wednesday protests. Seki said if police fail to protect residents the vigilant group will be on standby to ruthlessly deal with protesters whom he referred as ‘outsiders’. Three days of demos too costly, say MPs bad example to youngsters who are looking up to them. “Stop talking in public using languages that are unpleasant to the ears of Kenyans. We are a growing nation and many of us are young people who are looking for good role models especially in the political area of life. We want the government and Opposition leaders to cease speaking in vulgar, war and criminal languages in the public,” he added. Separately, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has warned retired state officers to stay away from the ongoing Opposition protest or face the full force of the law. Speaking at Kaanwa Catholic Church in Tharaka Nithi yesterday, the tough talking CS warned that the government will not tolerate anybody trying to destabilise the government by causing mayhem and anarchy in the country. He admitted last Wednesday demonstration met them not fully prepared, admitting that law enforcers are fully ready to face the demonstrators. “Mark my words, this time any criminal who loots, barricades roads and stone motorists, destroy properties of Kenyans and government and kill innocent citizens claiming that they are exercising their constitutional rights, trust me they will regret for the rest of their lives,” noted Kindiki. On his part, Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro said they will not allow any anti-government demonstrations in the Central region. Ndindi said the demos were heavily financed and choreographed by some forces who want to destabilise the government.

6 NEWS BEAT PEOPLE DAILY / Monday, July 17, 2023 Release full education reforms report – lobby by Irene Githinji @gitshee The Elimu Bora Working group has raised concern over the delay in releasing the presidential task force report on education reforms. Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) official Cornelius Oduor said Elimu Bora, a coalition of civil societies, is concerned thatthe Presidential Working Party on Education Reforms has been dispatching piecemeal policy proposals on major issues in the sector. “The taskforce proposed fundamental changes in junior secondary school, universities funding model without adequately allowing for public consultation,” Oduor said at a press conference. He said the report should be released for public consumption before some of the recommendations are implemented. “We are concerned that this report is already being implemented without adequate public participation and that goes against the Constitution,” he said. He added: “We are asking the working party that as a matter of principle, to consider releasing the report to the public so that even as we set out to implement some of the provisions, the public and other stakeholders in education have an opportunity to give feed back otherwise they will be going against the fundamental principle of public participation.” The chairman of the Presidential Working Party On Education Reform Prof Raphael Munavu. PD/FILE and outside Parliament in passing legislations which are pro-people. “I will not fail you. We will work together and we will succeed. We will succeed and our competitors know and that is why they are putting all efforts to disrupt us,” Ruto told the meeting. He added: “We have a historical opportunity to change Kenya. And it won’t be easy. The easiest option would have been to expand our budget deficit. But we won’t. We could have given in to blackmail. But we won’t.” Nairobi Governor Johnstone Sakaja was on the receiving end once again with MPs especially those from Nairobi accusing him of being an opposition sympathiser. “The feeling in the meeting was that Sakaja is a sell-out who they accused of working with Azimio,” said the source. However, when he came, Sakaja gave a good account of himself maintaining that he was a staunch supporter of the Kenya Kwanza administration and that he will never betray the President. There was a showdown between Sakaja and Embakasi Central MP Benjamin Gathiru with the MP accusing the governor of neglecting UDA supporters in Nairobi and that UDA grassroots leaders had been left on their own. Sakaja, however, denied the accusations saying that only a few weeks ago, he and the MP drove to his constituency to open a school feeding programme kitchen. Back door Gatanga MP Edward Muriu accused Raila of being selfish adding that he had no interests of Kenyans at heart. “We have been tasked to unmask him and show our people how he has managed to beat the government and access government through the back door,” said Muriu. He added: “Unlike in the past when Raila had his way, we agreed that he will have to wait for 2027 to try his luck again in the presidential election.” The meeting was attended by governors, senators and MPs. Among those who spoke during the meeting were governors Cecily Mbarire (Embu), Anne Waiguru (Kirinyaga), Kenneth Lusaka (Bungoma), Fatuma Achani (Kwale) and Sakaja. Others were the majority leader in the National Assembly Kimani Ichung’wah (Kikuyu), Silvanus Osoro (South Mugirango), David Ochieng’ (Ugenya) and Nominated MP Sabina Chege. RESOLUTIONS The legislators reportedly said arresting opposition leader Raila Odinga was not an option as by doing so the government would be falling into his trap. Some MPs reportedly expressed concern about the Director General of the National Intelligence Service (NIS) Noordin Haji’s performance. by Antony Mwangi @PeopleDailyKe President William Ruto has asked Kenya Kwanza MPs not to be deterred by the Opposition protests saying they are aimed at derailing his agenda. A high profile source who attended the meeting said Ruto showered praises on the MPs’ performance in parliament, especially in the budget-making process. “We have passed a good budget and you should be proud of what you have done,” the President reportedly told the legislators during a closed-door meeting at State House, Nairobi. He said the opposition was hell-bent to sabotaging the economy using the weekly protests. The legislators reportedly said arresting opposition leader Raila Odinga was not an option as by doing so the government would be falling into his trap. “There have been calls of arresting Raila and the Azimio-allied leaders but the move will only give them political mileage and sympathy. We will be falling in their trap and that is why we need to take the political route,” Nyeri Senator Wahome Wamatangi told his colleagues. President Ruto told the MPs that he cannot be everywhere responding to statements made by the opposition and asked the lawmakers to be more proactive in hitting back whenever the government is attacked. Some MPs reportedly expressed concern about the Director- General of the National Intelligence Service (NIS) Noordin Haji’s performance. “The NIS has demonstrated openly that he is supportive of the opposition leader and the financiers of the demonstrations. He is the one who pushed for bipartisan talks which achieved nothing. It was a useless undertaking,” said an MP who was present. Pro-people laws However, Ruto did not respond to the allegations made against his spymaster. Responding to concerns by governors present that the Azimio allied colleagues were using county funds to support the protests in their respective counties, Ruto cautioned them against taking that route. “These are public funds; how will you account for the money when time to do so comes?” posed the Head of State. He assured the MPs his full support in Azimio out to derail my agenda, Ruto tells MPs President met legislators and gubernatorial chiefs at State House to discuss protests by the Opposition Anti-riot police disperse Azimio protesters at Kamukunji Grounds, Nairobi on July 12. PD/PHILLIP KAMAKYA by Mercy Mwai @wangumarci Kenya is headed for a diplomatic tiff with the Italian government over the Lugi Brogoli Malindi Space Centre after it emerged that the government is considering pulling out of the bilateral agreement that paved the way for the setting up of the facility. Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale told the National Assembly’s Implementation Committee on Thursday that he had already briefed President William Ruto on the matter and is currently preparing a Cabinet memo on the government’s intention to terminate the agreement with the Italian government which has operated the facility for the last 60 years. “The land they have belongs to us and we know how to take it from them but we have said that Parliament must be involved in the event we exit the agreement and that is why we are here. As of now we have sent a signal to them because we have already briefed the Commander-in-Chief about this, we will also prepare a Cabinet memo with a clause to exit with the blessing of this committee.” Duale (pictured) told the MPs that he will not be attending a joint interministerial meeting in Rome tomorrow as the Italian government had declined to heed their demands that would have seen Kenya benefit from the proceeds of the facility. The CS further told the MPs that the Italian government had declined to act on subsequent letters that he and his Principal Secretary Patrick Mariru had written to the Italian Minister of Defence to express the government’s discontent over the agreement but this has not been acted upon. Demands omitted According to him, despite the government on June 15 June sending a delegation headed by the Mariru to attend the 2nd Joint Steering Committee to address issues around implementation of the Agreement, despite the meeting arriving at a raft of Resolutions and Recommendations to the Joint Council of Ministers the Italian Counterparts declined to append their signature to the joint resolutions, preferring instead to table a watereddown version, with the bulk of Kenya demands omitted. In his presentation before the committee, Duale said the current activities at the Malindi Space Centre were exclusively benefitting Italy through the Italian Space Agency (ASI) and its Western partner agencies through tracking, telemetry and command services, and provision of space science and astronomical data to the Western science community at the expense of Kenya. He said: “Kenya is yet to see significant benefits of this agreement either local or national despite it’s existence for the last and 60 years. The centre is only benefiting the Italian government. The Italian side has made only token fulfillment on select obligations while avoiding the substantive ones. Kenya, Italy simmering row over space centre in Malindi boils over

Monday, July 17, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY 7 ANNUAL REVENUE PERFORMANCE FY 2022/2023 KRA sustains revenue growth despite economic shocks Domestic Taxes Customer Support Programmes • Tax education and awareness; Stakeholder engagements and roundtables; Customer visits to appreciate compliant taxpayers. Tax Base Expansion • Recruitment of landlords under the Monthly Rental Income (MRI) obligation, Block Management System (BMS) to map out potential taxpayer. • Recruited 940,483 additional active taxpayers. Taxation of Digital Economy • KRA collected a total of KShs 5.328 Billion from the digital economy registering a growth of 207.9% compared to the same period in inancial year 2021/2022. Debt Collection Initiatives • Enhanced revenue collection from debt programmes on non-compliant taxpayers. Technology • Leverage on technology systems such as iCMS, iTax, RECTS, Smart Gates, Data Warehouse and Business Intelligence. Dispute Resolution Framework • Enhanced revenue collection from Litigation, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and Tax Appeals Tribunal (TAT). Tax at Source • Etims - Initiatives under this programme are eTIMS and integration of betting and gaming companies. KRA maintained an upward trajectory in revenue collection recording a 6.7% growth in the financial year 2022/2023. Revenue collection has progressively increased in the last 5 years. KShs. 1.407 Trillion Reflecting a growth rate of 8.5 % KShs. 754.090 Billion Relecting a growth rate of 3.5 % KShs. 2.030 Trillion Relecting a growth rate of 6.9 % KShs. 136.390 Billion Relecting a growth rate of 3.7 % Customs Taxes Exchequer Revenue Agency Fees Disclaimer: KRA notiies taxpayers that it will not accept responsibility for payments not received, credited and validated in the relevant KRA accounts. Corruption Reporting: +254 (0726) 984 668, Email: [email protected]. Short Messaging Services (SMS): Dial (*572#) or Text to 22572. Contact Centre: +254 (020) 4 999 999, +254 (0711) 099 999, Email: [email protected]. Complaints & Information Center Hotlines: +254 709 017 700 / 800, Email: [email protected] www.kra.go.ke Grew by 30% with a performance rate of 116.2% Grew by 11.3% Grew by 9.0 % Grew by 7.2% Grew by 2.8% Grew by 9.4% EXCISE ON BETTING DOMESTIC VAT CORPORATION TAX PAYE DOMESTIC EXCISE IMPORT DUTY KShs 6.640 Bn KShs 272.452 Bn KShs 263.819 Bn KShs 494.979 Bn KShs 68.124 Bn KShs 129.987 Bn KShs.1.580 Trillion FY 2018/19 FY 2019/20 FY 2020/21 FY 2021/22 KShs.1.607 Trillion FY 2022/23 KShs.1.669 Trillion KShs.2.031 Trillion KShs.2.166 Trillion 5-YEAR REVENUE GROWTH KShs. 586.259 Billion PERFORMANCE OF KEY TAX HEADS

Ruto urges unity of African leaders for shared prosperity what typical Pan-African collective action can achieve, and we are only getting started,” said the Kenyan President. Transformative significance He added that the progress that has been made by collaborating with unprecedented firmness of purpose in different domains, including peace and security, regional integration, investment, trade and development and climate change is of tremendous and positively transformative significance for us collectively. Ruto said the Pan-African movement has always been about sovereignty. “The chronic dependence on wellmeaning partners is inconsistent with this aspiration.” Those attending the summit include Presidents Abdel Fattah (Egypt), Bola Tinubu (Nigeria), Azali Assoumani (Comoros), Ali Bongo (Gabon), Macky Sall (Senegal), Ismail Guelleh (Djibouti) and African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki, among others. The Head of State told the session that African integration is unstoppable as it will open doors for unprecedented transformation. He pointed out that the African Continental Free Trade Area will be the world’s largest free-trade area, bringing together 54 countries. “This single market will lift 30 million people out of extreme poverty and boost incomes.” The President explained that the success of COP27 in Egypt was a signal that Africa is taking off. “It showed that Africa can speak in one voice and contribute to global development and climate action.” President Ruto praised the AU Commission for its leadership in advancing Pan-African integration and sustainable development. The Head of State further called for selfreliance and institutional reform at the AU. Africa must define its voice, pursue a new industrial age, and ensure effective capacity for Pan-African transformation. President Ruto invited visiting Heads of state to Africa Climate Summit to be held in Nairobi from September 4-6 which will highlight the importance of accelerating global energy transition and delivering African solutions to combat climate change. The Head of State told the session that African integration is unstoppable as it will open doors for unprecedented transformation. At the same time Egypt President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Ruto met on the sidelines of the fifth Mid-Year Coordination Meeting of the African Union taking place in the Kenyan capital. The two presidents reviewed efforts to coordinate initiatives aimed at settling the Sudan crisis, including the initiative emanating from Sudan’s Neighboring Countries Summit which was held in Egypt on 13 July. This initiative is integrated with other regional efforts to end the conflict through peaceful negotiations, read a statement by the Egyptian presidency. President praises the AU Commission for its leadership in advancing Pan-African integration and sustainable development Proposed new rent await city residents Tributes pour in for health reporter Nairobi residents residing in county-owned houses are staring at rental increments of between Sh2,500 –Sh7,500 if proposals contained in the county’s Finance Bill are adopted. The proposal is among a raft of costly levies being proposed by Governor Johnson Sakaja aimed at raising Sh19.9 billion own source revenue for the county government in the financial year June 30, 2024. The Nairobi County Finance Bill 2023 currently before the County Assembly’s Budget and Appropriations Committee for consideration proposes a 10 percent monthly rent increment for estates including new and Old Ngara, Kariobangi South, Kabete Waterworks, Jamhuri, Juja Road, Kariokor and Huruma. Then there is a proposal of a 25 percent increment for estates including Ziwani, Ofafa Jericho, Lumumba, Jerusalem, Maringo, Mbotela, Ngong Road, Shauri Moyo, Gorofani, Bahati, New Pumwani, Landhies Road, Outering Road, Uhuru and new Pumwani. Ideally, residents in these estates pay rent of between Sh2,000- Sh22, 000. County has 17,000 houses in Maringo, Uhuru, Kaloleni, Jericho, Buruburu, Kariobangi South, Ziwani, and Jerusalem. - Alvin Mwangi The media fraternity including reporters and health workers continued pouring in their tributes for the departed Daily Nation health reporter, Elizabeth Merab, most of them describing her as an accomplished professional, whom the country will miss. Doctors, researchers and media practitioners saw in Merab, a focused journalist who committed her life as a journalist in advocating for health matters in the country.“On behalf of the board and management Kemri, please accept our deepest sympathy and condolences to the family of our dear friend, courageous and polished science writer, the late Elizabeth Merab following her demise on Friday 15th, July 2023,” said Kemri communication officer, James Wodera. Ibrahim Oruko, now a communications officer in the Senate and a former colleague,described her as a person knowledgeable on medical matters. - George Kebaso Mombasa passengers at pains following closure of Liwatoni Footbridge by Harrison Kivisu @PeopleDailyKe Crisis has hit the Likoni Ferry crossing channel which is currently congested by pedestrians following the closure of the Liwatoni Footbridge two weeks ago. The 1.2km Liwatoni pedestrian bridge which was launched early 2021 to ease congestion at the Ferry during Covid-19 crisis was closed indefinitely last week on Friday night as Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) launched the night pilotage of oil tankers. The move has resulted in renewed congestion at the channel as thousands of bridge users flocked back to using ferries to cross between Mombasa Island and Likoni mainland. The situation has further been compounded by overloads by Mtongwe Ferry users who initially relied on the bridge following the collapse of Mtongwe Ferry services. Ferry users now decry that the increased number of ferry users after the closure of the bridge has caused a huge human congestion during peak hours, putting at risk the lives of persons with disability. The congestion has affected movement at the ferry that has been marred with prolonged delays of between 20 and 30 minutes waiting time. The users expressed fears of an impending stampede as experienced on several occasions previously and called for urgent interventions by the government through Kenya Ports Authority (KPA). KPA Managing Director William Ruto said the 24/7 operation at the new Sh40 billion Kipevu Oil Terminal will reduce turnaround for ships at Mombasa Port. Currently only four ferries are in operation. Those who used the bridge and the Mtongwe ferry whose services were suspended have now been subjected to long routes and economic burden amid hiked transport fares. At Least 300.000 people and 6,000 motorists use the ferry. BRIEFLY FOSTERING UNITY He emphasised the “significance of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area and its potential to lift millions out of poverty, at the AU fifth Mid-Year Coordination Summit in Nairobi.” President Ruto invites visiting Heads of state to Africa Climate Summit to be held in Nairobi from September 4th-6th which will highlight the importance of accelerating global energy transition and delivering African solutions to combat climate change. President William Ruto in the company of President Azali Assoumani of Comoros who is also the Chair of the African Union and the President of African Development Bank Akinwumi Adesina during the sidelines of the AU summit in Nairobi. HIRAM OMONDI/PCS by Anthony Mwangi @PeopleDailyKe President William Ruto yesterday urged African leaders to work together in a bid to build a more integrated, prosperous and stable continent. Ruto said for this to happen the leaders must set aside their political and geographical differences to achieve the economic goals that will help its people to prosper. He said the most compelling signal that African integration is unstoppable and that it will open doors for unprecedented socioeconomic transformation, is the progress we have made in implementing the Africa Continental Free Trade Area. “This process must be Africa-driven by its own people, leaders and resources,” President Ruto said when he opened the 5th mid-year coordination meeting of the African Union at the UN Complex in Gigiri. On Africa Continental Free Trade Area (ACFTA), President Ruto told the delegates, “We must all be proud of this magnificent project, an historic achievement by and for ourselves, whose positive effects will reverberate throughout the world for a long time to come. I am not exaggerating. Let us consider the bare facts of the matter.” Reforming of the African Union, Ruto said will be the starting point of an integrated and prosperous continent. He lamented that over five decades after independence, the continent still relies on external funding to drive its agenda. “We must free the AU from constraints so that it can pursue urgent and critical interventions in the continent using internallygenerated resources,” said President Ruto. AU Programmes He noted that it was not right for over 60 per cent of AU programmes to be financed by overseas partners. He told the delegates that ACFTA has since inaugurated the world’s largest freetrade area saying that under it, 54 countries have agreed to create a single market with a population of 1.4 billion and a GDP of USD 3.4 trillion. “The free trade area is projected to lift 30 million people out of extreme poverty and boost incomes by 7%, or USD 450 billion by 2035. As I have had occasion to remark before elsewhere, this is the magnitude of 8 NEWS BEAT PEOPLE DAILY / Monday, July 17, 2023

Three brave Kenyans disarm Ndhiwa, city robbers by Zaddock Angira @PeopleDailyKe Three daring members of the public have wrestled gunmen and recovered three firearms which had earlier been stolen from security officers in separate incidents in the last one and a half months Two of the firearms were recovered by women while the other was by a male shopkeeper, all during botched robberies. Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said two of the firearms -both AK47 rifles -were recovered in Ndhiwa on July 13 and in Korogocho Nairobi on July 9, respectively. The other G3 rifle was recovered in Transzoia on May 27. On Thursday at around 11.30pm, a man armed with an AK47 rifle raided a home in Nyawiso village, Ndhiwa in Homa Bay county. A businesswoman got hold of the gun while screaming and managed to overpower the robber who then escaped, leaving the firearm behind. Members of the public and police officers responded and it was established that the firearm, an AK47 rifle serial number 4852172 and loaded with 30 rounds of ammunition had been stolen from Administration a Police Constable Philemon Kipkemoi Kimwole. “Investigations conducted so far reveal that the rifle had been stolen from an AP officer deployed to CIPU, Ndhiwa,” the DCI said. Caution to citizen “As a thorough probe into the circumstances under which the firearms ended up in the hands of criminal gangs kick in, the DCI commends the two women for their bravery and for joining in the fight to sanitise the streets of gangsters and illegal arms,” the DCI added. Police have however cautioned all citizens to ensure their own safety first while caught up in such scenes of armed robberies. In another case on July 9, a brave shopkeeper fought off three AK47 rifle-wielding robbers and managed to disarm them of the firearm in Korogocho, Nairobi. The firearm, serial number KP 60034486 loaded with 9 rounds of ammunition was later found to belong to the Kenya Police Service. He was rushed to hospital in a critical condition. The other recovery of government firearm was reported in Transzoia West at Lions area on May 27 when a lone robber armed with a loaded G3 rifle accosted a man and his wife as they opened their shop at 6am. The woman overpowered the thug who fled leaving behind a loaded rifle. DCI The DCI commends the two women for their bravery Priest accused of defiling 16 year old Two minors aged 6 and 12 were defiled in separate villages in Gwassi South Ward of Homa Bay County, police say The two who are currently undergoing treatment at Magunga Sub-county Hospital in Suba South were defiled at Ong’ong’o and Seka villages, respectively, by different suspects. The father of the victim aged 6 and a 42-year-old priest who is accused of defiling the 16-year-old form three girls are both detained at Magunga police station. Suba Children officer Kepher Otago said the student was admitted at Magunga Sub-county hospital for medical examination. The clinical officer in charge of Magunga Sub-county Hospital, Richard Ojuok, confirmed that the two minors were examined at the facility. – Zaddock Angira BRIEFLY by Noven Owiti @PeopleDailyKe Kenyans should brace themselves for a sharp rise in prices of sugar and massive job cuts after the government suspended the milling of sugar in all sugar factories for five months. A meeting convened by the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) with all sugar millers in Kisumu on July 13 agreed that all the factories cease their operations from last Friday, July 14, 2023 till November 30, 2023 to allow cane to mature. The decision to suspend sugar milling was announced by AFA Ag Director (sugar directorate), Jude Chesire, who had chaired the meeting saying it was the only viable solution towards saving the worrying situation. “It is a decision taken in the interest of all sugar milling companies. We are doing this to protect our sugar firms from total collapse as a result of acute shortage of cane,” Chesire said. The move comes at a time various players in the sugar sector have been pushing for the suspension of milling operations to give room for cane in the Western Kenya sugar belt to mature in order to address the worsening cane shortage crisis. Stakeholders in the sector say the scramble for cane, the primary raw material, has pushed millers to resort to crushing immature cane, which results in poor-quality of the sweetener. Some millers had been forced to source for cane from neighbouring countries such as Uganda and Tanzania to remain afloat. But the suspension was not taken lightly by farmers, with the Western Development Initiative Association (WEDIA) threatencompany shall treat all employees with dignity and fairness during this period in the knowledge that what is being “faced is temporary and will soon pass”. Affected sugar millers included Mumias, Chemelili, Nzoia, South Nyanza (Sony), Muhoroni, Butali, Kibos, Transmara, Soin and Miwani sugar factories. Kenya is currently facing shortages of the commodity which has seen the prices increase by more than 50 per cent in the last two months. The suspension of sugar milling comes amid claims that the Government has already sanctioned some private firms to import sugar to cover the 180, 000 metric tonnes deficit. Unfortunately, the importation is not open to all registered sugar importers; each of whom have equally paid Sh200,000 for registration. It is to be done by a select few who have been mysteriously allocated quantities to import,’’ Barasa claimed. Those shortlisted, Barasa claimed, would be allowed to bring in duty free sugar from any part of the world without restrictions to COMESA rules. Two months ago, AFA, in a move to address the shortage, announced the delineation of the sugar belt into six regions in an attempt to limit conflict and the fight for raw materials. “Such arrangements will ensure that millers continue to operate within capacities supported by mature sugarcane in their respective regions,” said Chesire. State suspends sugar production, anxiety creeps in Kenyans should prepare for price hikes and job cuts after State suspended operations in mills due to lack of cane of the sweetener to retail at about Sh300 a kilogramme. Kenya produces about 600,000 tonnes of sugar a year, against an annual consumption of 800,000 tonnes. The deficit is bridged by imports from the neighbouring countries. There are fears that suspension of sugar milling could lead to an unprecedented crisis. As a result of the decision to suspend operations, sugar millers have directed their staff to take fifteen days paid leave effective July 14 till end of the month when they would have decided on the way forward. “Following a consultative meeting held in Kisumu today, July 13, 2023 between the Government (Food and Agriculture Authority) and all millers in Kenya, a decision was made to suspend sugar production operations in the region up to November 30, 2023 to allow cane to mature,”: an internal memo signed by Sohan Sharma, the chief executive officer at the West Kenya Sugar Company Limited to their staff stated. Critical areas As if signalling the hard times ahead for the workers, Sharma went on to warn: “Consequently, all staff, with the exception of those working in critical areas will be required to proceed on paid annual leave up to July 31, 2023. The company will use this period to run a consultation process after which you will be advised on the way forward.” Sharma however promises that the A milling plant at Mumias Sugar Factory. PD/FILE AT A GLANCE A meeting convened by the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) with all sugar millers in Kisumu on July 13 agreed that all the factories cease their operations from last Friday, July 14, 2023 till November 30, 2023 to allow cane to mature. The move comes at a time various players in the sugar sector have been pushing for the suspension of milling operations to give room for cane in the Western Kenya sugar belt to mature in order to address the worsening cane shortage crisis. ing to move to court to stop a decision it claims would work to the disadvantage of the farmers. WEDIA chairman Joseph Barasa questioned where the government thinks farmers with cane maturing in the next few days or month would take their cane since they had not been prepared for the move. “Besides the famers being caught off guard, this is going to open the floodgates to importation of cheap sugar into the country. The whole idea is fishy and out rightly meant to kill the sugar sector,” Barasa warned. Double-edged sword According to the Kenya National Alliance of Sugarcane Farmers Associations (KNASFA) chairman Saul Busolo, the decision to suspend the cane millers’ operation is a double-edged sword, as besides allowing the cane to mature properly, it will lead to skyrocketing of sugar prices as well as provide some unscrupulous individuals the platform to import cheap sugar. “The first impact to be felt will be a sharp increase in sugar prices because some traders are going to hoard the commodity in order to make a killing from the resultant shortage. And a tradition, the government will take advantage of the situation to allow importation of cheap goods into the country,” Busolo warned. The one-time legislator warned that unless handled well, the move could sound the death knell for sugar manufacturing companies in the country. Busolo and Barasa questioned the rationale behind the government decision to halt operations of all sugar factories at the same time, claiming that it could be intended to cause a major shortage of the commodity and thus lead to influx of cheap imports. With the prices of sugar retailing at Sh220 per kilogramme, players in the sector are now warning that the precipitated shortage of cane would skyrocket prices Monday, July 17, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY NEWS BEAT 9

10 PEOPLE SPEAK PEOPLE DAILY / Monday, July 17, 2023 The Government recently lifted the ban on logging. The objective, as stated by the Government, was to rejuvenate the timber industry that was very adversely affected by the ban. However, no sooner had the Government lifted the logging ban than Kenyans invaded forests, burning charcoal and even expropriating forest land and leasing it. This is from none other than the person mandated to protect those very forests, Environment Cabinet Secretary, Soipan Tuya. It looks like the Government did not think this thing through and lifted the ban when it was ill-prepared to do so. First, the decision to lift the ban on logging is a sound one. The sawmilling and timber industry is a key economic sector in Kenya, with potential for employing thousands, attracting huge investments in the wood-based manufacturing industry, and huge forward and backward linkages. But because of the very reasons why the ban was imposed in the first place, the Government should have ensured critical safeguards were in place to guarantee a safe reopening that did not endanger Kenya’s forests, already reeling from multiple threats. The Government should have mapped out all forests, especially those most vulnerable, and properly secured them. The increased forest guards CS Tuya talks of employing should have been in place before the lifting was done. Policing is critical now that the ban has been lifted. Kenya is a country steeped in corruption. If the laissez-faire attitude that the CS Environment has so far exhibited is what will continue reigning in this new dispensation, expect no forests in Kenya in the next five years. That ban had been imposed for a reason! There are now complaints of favouritism in giving out permits for logging. Again, this will just sully the whole initiative of rejuvenating the timber industry. These procedures should have been streamlined, made transparent and accountable, and made public. Transparency is very helpful in addressing corruption. CS Tuya, there is a lot of work for you to do, and your assurances that there is no cause for concern is itself a major cause for concern. The Government needs to take care that a well meaning directive does not become bastardised beyond recognition. Kenyans will recall that former President, Uhuru Kenyatta, removed the ban on matatu graffiti that had been put in place by new rules implemented by late Transport Minister, John Michuki. The matatu industry used this pronouncement to roll back all the gains that had been made in getting that sector disciplined. Today, you cannot recognise the matatu sector that Michuki left- it has gone completely rogue. The key question for Government is- is there a masterplan for tree growing in Kenya? Yes, the Government is targeting to plant 15b trees in 10 years, but getting the country’s forest cover to a critical mass is only one part of the story. A comprehensive masterplan is needed to take care of all the needs for trees in the country. Commercial logging is the private sector counterpart to tree planting for conservation purposes. On this aspect, the Government seems to be completely lost. Take care of commercial tree growing to feed the ravenous appetite for timber and even charcoal in Kenya. Put in place a plan that will see commercial trees planted under a targeted plan every year, based on the country’s current and projected timber needs going forward. Indeed, the Government can offer incentives for investors in a bid to ensure there is surplus wood for export. Give incentives for investors to go into serious commercial tree growing, so that serious investors can start doing this on thousands of hectares of land. Forests will forever be under pressure if the country does not institute a plan to satisfy the demand for timber and wood based products like furniture. The current crisis facing forests is purely due to successive Governments not talking this docket seriously enough to develop a masterplan that tackles the need for satisfying the various demands for growing of trees. And only paying lip service to conservation of forests. — [email protected] —POPE JOHN PAUL II Social justice cannot be attained by violence. Violence kills what it intends to create. Protect forests after the lifting of caveat The lifting of the ban on logging has exposed the greed of private and public sector players who have taken undue advantage to harvest trees in public forests indiscriminately. Kenya has come a long way in its difficult journey of increasing forest cover. It has taken decades to register these gains and it is disheartening to see forests being destroyed just days after the ban on logging was lifted. One shudders to think what will happen in a few months if the trend noted in recent days is allowed to persist unchecked. President William Ruto and his deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, have been urging leaders at home and abroad to be alive to the dangers posed by climate change. Yet one of the leading causes of adverse climate is the destruction of forests and other natural habitats that have provided ecological balance over the years. It is, therefore, ironical, that these two leaders are overseeing the wanton destruction of forest, which is going against the stated aim of only harvesting mature trees to make forests sustainable. Why are they allowing this unmitigated greed to pose a threat to Kenya’s fragile ecosystem and deny current and future generations the benefits of the country’s rich flora and fauna? Why can’t they order systematic harvesting of trees, if logging has to be allowed, or give a window after which the ban will be re-introduced. At the present pace, there will soon be no public forests worth talking about in Kenya soon, and since those harvesting the trees are not required to plant new ones or sponsor greening activities, they will continue to make profits at the expense of other Kenyans. In addition to the destruction of forests, there is also no clear understanding of who is being paid for these trees? Is there an auditable process to ensure that the government gets all the revenues it deserves or are there public officials who are cutting corners and benefiting directly? Kenyans need to know how the revenue from the logging is channeled and the process needs to be open and transparent. In addition, the money or part of it, should be channeled to greening activities to make logging sustainable in the long run. As it is now, there is a lot that is shrouded in mystery and it is not clear why there is such a mad rush to destroy forests and who is benefiting. Unless something is done now, Kenyans will live to rue the lifting of the ban very soon when the country becomes semi-arid under our watch. State was-ill prepared on lifting of logging ban THOUGHT OF THE DAY GATHU KAARA A comprehensive masterplan is needed to take care of all the needs for trees in the country. QUOTEDTODAY The success of COP27 in Egypt was a signal that Africa is taking off. “It showed that Africa can speak in one voice and contribute to global development and climate action. PRESIDENT WILLIAM RUTO We want to ask our government and our leaders to exercise servant leadership that looks into the needs of the people and comes down to talk, just like families do. NAIROBI ARCHBISHOP PHILIP ANYOLO I’m very excited to start this next step in my career with Inter Miami and in the United States. This is a fantastic opportunity and together we will continue to build this beautiful project. ARGENTINA FORWARD LIONEL MESSI EDITORIAL A PUBLICATION OF MEDIAMAX NETWORK LIMITED KEN NGARUIYA: Group Chief Executive Officer MBUGUA NG’ANG’A: Managing Editor People Daily is published by MEDIAMAX NETWORK LIMITED at DSM Place, Kijabe Street, P.O. Box 24943, 00100 - Nairobi Tel: 0730144100; 0709824000; 0204944100 E-mail: [email protected] © Copyright 2023

SEND YOUR OPED TO: [email protected] Monday, July 17, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY PEOPLE SPEAK 11 Civil conversations, public debates and parliamentary deliberations are very critical in a progressive society. This weekend President William Ruto and his team were in Homa Bay attending the home coming of Interior PS Raymond Omollo. During the President’s visit, he revisited his campaign forays in Luo Nyanza and specifically Homa Bay. As much as many thought his campaigns in the region were futile, he held meetings and slept in there in what he termed as a journey to change politics. Well, even the elections in 2022 were elevated in how the citizenry behaved. No violence was witnessed. But we seem to be regressing. How can we unite the country when the clampdown on dissent is more savage than in the dark days of the oneparty era? The right to hold peaceful demonstrations cannot be wished away. The events of last week call for leaders to be civil in deliberations and work together to guarantee that the right to life and the need to have peaceful demonstrations remain sacrosanct. When the President, his deputy and Interior CS talk tough against demonstrations, they forget the fact that nothing good has happened in this country without some concerted and sustained civil disobedience against draconian laws, decrees and dispensations. Civil disobedience birthed our Republic. In many countries, the fight for nationhood was characterised by the collective will of the people to break the yoke of colonialism through blood and sweat. But that was more than six decades ago and there is no reason why today Kenyans should lose their lives in exercising what the Constitution guarantees. Our second liberation and the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution were not functions of political elite deliberations alone. No, our leaders were pushed to deliberations that were overly people driven and we vividly remember the sacrifices of many Kenyans like Kenneth Matiba, Oginga Odinga, Charles Rubia, James Orengo, George Anyona, Raila Odinga, Paul Muite, Jean Marie Seroney, Wanyiri Kihoro, Gitobu Imanyara, Martin Shikuku and many other ordinary Kenyans who left their privileged positions to fight for what we have today. Some like Pio Gama Pinto, JM Kariuki and bishop Alexander Muge, among others, paid the ultimate price. Even as we look over the shoulders and acknowledge the contributions of these Kenyans, we must be alive to the fact that they made these contributions more than three decades ago. Today, we are a lot more progressive, we can, and we need to have civil and deliberative conversations without loss of life. In fact, the conversations between the security agencies on the one hand and the civil demonstrations’ organisers, the political class and any other forces with divergent views on the other can underpin a progressive dispensation that will help the government listen more to the real issues and be a lot more responsive. Demonstrations give the leaders an opportunity to understand the challenges that affect the people and resolve them. They are not meant to antagonise the government. We have come so far as a country to regress on the gains we have made, and the onus is on the political class to tone down the divisive and inflammatory rhetoric and allow deliberations to create pathways to a brighter future for all. We can have peaceful demonstrations if both the demonstrators and the security agencies ensure that protesters are not blocking roads, destroying property or infringing on the rights of others. We can listen to the issues that underpin demonstrations if the police endeavour to police and NOT shoot. We can also elevate our demonstrations to this bright space where we express dissent rather than provoke, destroy, or disturb peace. — The writer is a PhD candidate in political communication Nepotism huge scar in country’s growth prospects How to make our public demonstrations safe, civil For decades now, Kenya’s economy has been hurtling towards self-destruction after every election cycle, in what is now becoming a tradition of economic uncertainty bred after one regime hands over to the next. This is not only one of Kenya’s economic hurdles due to its knock-on effect on growth. Granted, elections almost always create a sense of uncertainty as they often come with changes in policies, while investors and businesses opt for a cautious stance that may delay investment decisions until the political landscape becomes clearer. Uncertainties slap Kenya’s economy really hard this time, and as policy changes take charge the recent taxation regime, regulations, trade policies, and fiscal policies must speak well to businesses and investor sentiments. But when new policies are seen as being unfavourable, it can lead to reduced business activity and investment, as has been the case with reactions to recent changes in taxation, the impasse in the Finance Bill 2023 is a pointer to things getting out of hand. Being one of the most scrutinised Finance Bills in recent times, this is a pointer that Kenyans are not only awoken but also probably indicative of a population reeling from the weight of the high cost of living which will be made worse with high taxes and levies. Much as the ongoing confrontation between the government and the opposition is to blame for dwindling economic fortunes and further fires the embers of uncertainty, and despite calling it a political showdown, let’s face it, isn’t this just a fight for resources? If you listen keenly to top politicians in government, it is the money they are interested in. They want to decide who among themselves and their inner circle will get what from taxpayers’ money. Some have been candid enough terming the government a company whereby “shareholders” decide how the dividends shall be shared. And in this case, the dividends is taxpayer’s money. Never mind that it is collected countrywide from every single Kenyan including those not in government. In absolute mockery of democratic principles, soon after every election that has seen changes at the top office, Nairobi and other cities are awash with a new variant of migrants coming to do the bidding and replace the outgoing government, or is it company? This as past appointees face the sack, on the back of the creation of more positions to assuage loyalists in the name of change in strategy and tack, but essentially to reward the inner circle. We can call it all we want but, to shame the devil, there is no name to it other than nepotism. When it gets to devolved units it entails lining up members of certain clans or lineages for plum jobs. Nepotism is said to have originated from the assignment of nephews to important positions by Catholic Popes and bishops and is defined as the act of granting an advantage, privilege, or position to relatives or close friends in an occupation. Philosophers, including Aristotle and Confucious, criticized nepotism, terming it as both evil and unwise, but our political leaders don’t get it. Nepotism is one way to breed corruption and has institutionalized the vice in government since Kenya gained independence. It not only damages national morale, but also creates rifts, breeds resentment and in most cases gives advantage to the undeserving and unqualified. The financial architecture is such that it is the local and national governments that pull all strings in mega development projects, crowding out the private sector, is all about politics. This means that taxpayer’s money ends up very close to those in power and when they come from close proximity, Kenya will take longer to develop organically. Kenyans tried to set up a new constitution leveraging devolved units to enable resources to trickle down through 47 county governments, but the pressure on the national government is still palpable, and to ease this five-year cycle of uncertainty that rotates around the election, clearly, something must give and more needs to be done. Be that as it may, and with the government having managed to collect Sh2.17 trillion in taxes for the financial year 2022/2023 in decelerated tax collection, to foot Kenya’s Sh3.68 trillion budget, the Finance Bill 2023 which is still in court and as maandamano wreaks havoc to the economy, the writing is on the wall: we need to talk. —The writer is the Business Editor, People Daily HANSEN OWILLA We have come so far as a country to regress on the gains we have made. FRED AMINGA Nepotism is one way to breed corruption and has institutionalized the vice in government. #TWEETS TO THE EDITOR / / / @PeopleDailyKe / / / People Daily STREET TALK Hong Kongers urged to stare at smokers People in Hong Kong should stare at smokers disapprovingly as part of efforts to create a tobacco-free city, the territory’s health minister has said. Professor Lo Chung-mau said people who have lit up in areas where it is prohibited are unlikely to “hit back” if everyone stares at them, local media has reported. ”Cigarettes can harm the health of all of us,” Professor Lo told a meeting of the Legislative Council’s health service panel on Friday. “When the members of the public see people smoking in non-smoking areas, even if no law enforcement officers can show up immediately, we can stare at the smokers. “When someone takes out a cigarette at a restaurant, everyone on the premises can stare at that person. I do not believe that person would dare to hit back at everyone at the restaurant as they are simply staring.” Professor Lo said the behaviour would help to create a “nonsmoking culture” in the city. He continued: “Take queuing at a bus stop as an example. No one will say it requires the law to compel people to queue. Statutory no-smoking areas in Hong Kong include parts of restaurants, workplaces, indoor public places and some outdoor public places, with penalties of HK$1,500 (Sh27,200) for breaches. —Agencies ODDLY ENOUGH TRUTHIS: When God’s grace touches your heart, his joy will be shwn on the face. Opposition role @DonaldBKipkorir: Kenya elected William Ruto as her President. Under the Constitution, his Presidency is for Five Years unless impeached. Constitution gives Opposition right to oversight Gov’t. Oversight include Demonstrators, Picketing & Assembly. We’re all under the Constitution. Scorecard @kellymwangani: Hon. David Ochieng MP for Ugenya highliting some of the achievements of President William Ruto in a short period of this administration that is impacting the people from employment of teachers,subsidy fertilizer,hustlers fund.The people of Nyanza rising to benefit. Kindiki effect @Goddie_Ke: When History will be written, So much will be said of the less talkative interior CS Kithure Kindiki, Of how he ended illicit brews in Mt Kenya, Of bandits trembling at his voice And Al-shabaab lowering their weapons at the mention of his name #HappyBirthdayProf. Listen Elon @MrRightke: Sai influencer wa youtube mwenye ako na subscribers same number na hawa followers wangu anadrive gari na ako na apartment, Elon should do something manze.

12 WITH A LIGHT TOUCH PEOPLE DAILY / Monday, July 17, 2023 Ignorance is bliss. Someone should tell Mama Hirohito, the daughter of my mom-in-law this undisputable fact. My life would be more peaceful. There are some truths I have never been in a hurry to know about – like what our governor thinks about maandamano. But Mama Hiro has other ideas. Last Thursday evening I was in the house minding my own business when my soul mate’s voice crashed into my thoughts. “Dear, can I ask you something?” “Yes, dear.” “What is the governor’s stand on Maandamano?” I was thunderstruck. “I don’t know,” I mumbled, eager to go back to my thoughts. “What do you mean you don’t know?” she asked. I looked at her in askance. How on earth did she expect me to read the governor’s mind? I put this question to her. “My dear, there is a way you can know the governor’s real stand,” she said. “How?” “Simple. Just go and ask him. Face him straight and let him tell you whether or not he supports maandamano.” I was now getting a little irked. “Of what use is that to us?” I asked. My soul mate gave me a don’t -act-so-daft look, and I got the drift. She wanted us to be in the governor’s good books. Lest you don’t get it, there is a strong rumour that pending bills are about to be paid, and Mama Hiro is owed no pittance. She has been supplying food to the health facilities in our county. The governor will have a strong say in determining who will be paid first. Your guess is as good as mine as to what will happen to those who don’t toe his line. “If I were you, I would not wait any longer. I would immediately seek to know the governor’s stand over the matter ndio tujipange,” she said. “But anyway, I am not you,” she added. From the tone of her voice, I could tell she was not making a suggestion but an order. So I knew better that argue with her. “When are you going to see the governor?” she asked. “Next week,” I said in an attempt to put the matter to rest. “Why not tomorrow?” she persisted. “Ok, I will,” I said resignedly. “Then call him now to book an appointment.” I did exactly that for the sake of domestic peace. I secured an appointment for the morning of the following day. On Friday, I arrived at the office of the county boss. I did not have a clear idea of how I was going to frame the all important question. “Karibu, Bwana Gwinso,” the boss ushered me into his expansive office. As we exchanged pleasantries, I was looking for a way of getting into the main purpose of my visit. Before I could say anything of substance, his phone rang. He received the call and I saw his face suddenly transform into an expression of disgust mixed with fury. “Listen, there is no going back on the matter. That decision is final,” he thundered. “No, no. We cannot pay pending bills first. After all, everybody ako na deni! Even the World Bank has debts!” he roared, hardly giving the person on the other end time to talk. “Those suppliers should know that we have priorities. Paying them is not urgent! I felt sorry for the person who was being told all this. But worse still, I dreaded the moment I was to break this news to Mama Hiro. “Look here, Bwana finance, we promised several projects to our people. If we pay our suppliers first, we shall look irresponsible. That will be totally unfair!” the county supremo bellowed and hang up. He then attempted to put back on his face a calm look – with little success. The look of ire refused to go. “Bwana Gwinso, don’t you agree that we should use the money we are about to get to serve our people rather than pay pending bills? Eh?” he asked looking at me intently. I don’t know where I got the courage. I faced him and said, “But Sir, these suppliers also deserve to be paid. Remember some of them also borrowed to supply the goods and services.” The county boss threw me a so-you-are-on-their-side stare and declared, “ I know you have an interest in the matter. But we are not going to pay suppliers till we fulfill our promises to the people. You can organise maandamano against us if you want,” he fumed and stood up to show me my presence in his office was no longer desirable. Feeling beaten, I thanked him and left the office. Si kuzuri. –[email protected] Why pending bills will not be paid soon in our county MCA GWINSO Remember some of them (suppliers) also borrowed to supply goods and services Kenyans have been accused of not supporting ongoing reforms in the education sector, including introduction of new lessons in line with the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). The criticism has arisen following recent uproar following the teargassing of children in school as police battled opposition protestors. Contrary to the criticism, teargassing of primary school pupils is actually part and parcel of the education reforms, according to impeachable sources close to the police. The sources say the pupils have to learn to endure small inconveniences like teargas considering that harsher situations await them in the not-so-distant future. “What’s all this hullabaloo about pupils tasting a little teargas? This is just but a harmless preparation for what is coming in future when they grow up,” said the source, adding that no one will be allowed to obstruct the progress of the education reforms. He explained that the pupils who were recently teargassed in Kangemi, Nairobi were part of a pilot project in the preparation to roll out the system in the entire country. “The piloting actually started some years back in Langata Road Primary School and the way things are going, experts say we are progressing very well. After a few more trials, we will be ready for a countrywide rollout,” the source explained. Children who have been teargassed in recent and past riots, he said, should consider themselves lucky to have been picked for the pilot project. He said teargas will prepare the children for a future of real life problems like police truncheons, kicks, blows, rubber bullets and even live bullets. The last thing a proud country needs, he said, is weak people who cannot handle little problems like high taxes, let alone teargas. “We have to toughen them up when they are small so that when they grow up they can take anything that’s thrown at them. Hustlers have to be really strong to survive in the current world,” said the source. He accused previous administrations of failing in their duty to instill values of endurance and perseverance in young people which, he said, had resulted in a whiny population that complains over flimsy issues. The current grumbling about the cost of living, he explained, was a symptom of a pampered people who never tasted tear gas while they were in school. “This is exactly what you get when you don’t introduce tear gas to people early in life. This administration now has to deal with the mistakes of its predecessors,” he said. The source disclosed that teargas endurance competitions will soon be introduced in schools as a new sport, which is a way of improving competence among students. “Kenya intends to be a global leader in teargas endurance and what better way to develop great talents than to start early while citizens are still in school? Inter and intra school competitions will go a long way in achieving that,” he said. The champion of national school competitions, he revealed, will go home with a year supply of teargas canisters, among other prizes. – [email protected] MAMBO MATATA We have to toughen them up when they are small so that when they grow up they can take anything that’s thrown at them. Hustlers have to be really strong to survive in the current world. Impeachable Sources From the Counties Teargassing of pupils is a CBC lesson, police sources say

Monday, July 17, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY NEWS BEAT 13 We are not sorry, ODM rebel leaders say by Kepher Otieno and Noven Owiti @PeopleDailyKe Six ODM legislators have declared that they will not apologise for working closely with President William Ruto’s administration. Kisumu Senator Prof Tom Ojienda, MPs Caroli Omondi (Suba South), Mark Nyamita (Uriri), Paul Abuor (Rongo), Gideon Ochanda (Bondo), Elisha Odhiambo (Gem) and Felix Odiwuor (Lang’ata) remained defiant over the planned disciplinary action by the ODM party leadership. The lawmakers are facing a disciplinary action by the ODM party over their association with the Kenya Kwanza government. They have been at loggerheads with the party over their collaboration with the Kenya Kwanza regime. Already each of them has received summons requiring them to appear before the ODM disciplinary committee starting this week. The leaders are required to show cause why they are going against the wishes of the ODM party. But speaking at Oriwo Boys High School in Homa Bay county during a thanksgiving service and homecoming ceremony of Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo at the weekend, the ODM party rebels vowed that they will not relent in working with the government despite the summons. No apology Ojienda said they owe nobody an apology for working with the government. He said the constitution allows them to collaborate with the government for implementation of development in their respective electoral areas. “We are elected by the people to serve their interests. We don’t need to apologise to anybody for working with the government,” Ojienda said. On his part, Omondi said they are ready to meet the ODM disciplinary committee to give their position. He however noted that intimidation from the party will not deter them from working with the Kenya Kwanza government. According to Omondi, he made the decision to work closely with the government after getting the green light from his electorates. “My constituents have permitted me to work with the government for the sake of development,” Omondi said, The senator and MPs say they have no apologies for working with State noting that they are ready to face the consequences which may result from his collaboration with the government. Odhiambo accused the ODM party of being malicious. He argued that he had been summoned for two days yet his colleagues were summoned for one day. “The party has summoned me twice because of malicious reasons,” Odhiambo said. Nyamita said it was wrong for anybody to deny them their constitutional right of working with the government. “I have been issued with a show cause letter by ODM because I went to the President’s office and later visited the Deputy President’s office. How is this a problem yet we should work with the government for the development of our people?” Nyamita asked. Odiwuor appealed to President Ruto to intervene and rescue them from the wrath of ODM party. Party predicament “Mr President, I know Raila is your friend. Kindly talk to him about our predicaments within the party,” he said. President Ruto who was present during the chief guest at the function, told the MPs to be firm against threats of ODM, saying such will build them politically. He reminded them of his example when he received such letters as one time deputy party leader of ODM some years back. “I also received such letters when I was in ODM. They built me before I became the President of Kenya. Your political prosperity cannot come if ODM has not written a disciplinary letter to you. These letters are meant to build you too,” Ruto said. Separately, a section of ODM legislators have warned the government against harbouring plans to stop the planned demonstrations, saying their push for economic liberation is unstoppable. The Opposition Leaders led by National Assembly Minority leader Opiyo Wandayi, Siaya senator Oburu Oginga, MPs Jared Okello (Nyando), Rosa Buyu (Kisumu West), Aduma Owuor (Nyakach), Joshua Oron (Kisumu Central), Ongondo Were (Kasipul) and James Nyikal (Seme) maintained that the scaled-up demos would go on as planned despite the resistance. Oburu and Buyu argued that Kenyans have the constitutional rights to take part in demonstrations without any unnecessary restrictions. Oburu also accused the police of using excessive force on unarmed demonstrating Kenyans. “Kenyans are telling you Mr President that the burden is too heavy on them and you have to reduce it, if you don’t they will continue to demonstrate. This they will do without your permission because the law gives them the rights to do so,” he said. Nyikal and Okello slammed the government for failing to address the high cost of living, saying the demonstrations aim to liberate the suffering Kenyans. “Demonstrations are because people are hungry and they are suffering and all you need to do is to correct the economic problems in the country at the expense threatening leaders. None of them will work just solve the problem of the country,” said Nyikal. The lawmakers spoke during a political rally at Mowlem market grounds in Kisumu town at the weekend. Kisumu Senator Prof. Tom Ojienda. PD/FILE Prof Tom ojienda We are elected by the people to serve their interests. We don’t need to apologise to anybody for working with the government. Suba South MP Caroli Omondi. PD/FILE

14 NEWS BEAT PEOPLE DAILY / Monday, July 17, 2023 Japan funds Sh380m malaria research centre by Oliver Musembi and James Wakahiu @PeopleDailyKe A Sh380 million malaria research centre that aims to eradicate the disease has been launched in Thika, Kiambu County. Funded by the Japanese government, the project will be implemented by Mount Kenya University (MKU) in collaboration with Osaka City University, and the Homa Bay County Government. The project involves the establishment of a cuttingedge molecular and immunology laboratory at MKU Thika and a research station in Homa Bay. It will also embrace research in tropical medicine. It is also being supported by the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and is touted to achieve significant milestones in the fight against malaria. Speaking during the launch at the MKU main Thika campus, Japanese Ambassador to Kenya Ken Okaniwa said it is regrettable that malaria still remains a top killer disease on the African continent and whose fight continues to drain huge resources. “With the collaboration of Mount Kenya University, the Government of Kenya and other agencies, the malaria research centre is expected to find a lasting solution to the fight against the disease,” said the envoy. Reiterating that there is renewed hope in the war against malaria, the ambassador added that one of the key accomplishments of the state-of-the-art facility is to provide advanced research and diagnostics for the disease spread by mosquitoes. “Researchers and students from MKU and collaborating Japanese universities, such as Osaka City University, will benefit from exchange training programs, enhancing their skills and knowledge in malaria research,” Okaniwa pointed out. Investor opportunities The University Pro-Chancellor Dr Vincent Gaitho said the Centre for Malaria Elimination provides an opportunity for investors to develop medicine and vaccines by working with the research scientists. “This centre, among others things, will be an incubation for innovative, cutting-edge research while also being a catalyst for collaboration, patents, interdisciplinary learning, and commercialization of human health-related services and products, he said adding that investors will be encouraged to collaborate with the university researcher to develop drugs. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki chats with Georgia Kinya, a member of St Mary Catholic Church, Kaanwa in Tharaka Nithi County duringa thanksgiving and Sunday mass, yesterday. PD/DORCAS MBATIA KPLC disconnects power at Kilifi civil bureau by Ronald Mwadzombo @PeopleDailyKe Crucial services at the Kilifi County Civil Registration office have been paralysed after Kenya Power and lightning company reportedly disconnected power supply over unpaid bills. Speaking to the media outside his office, Kilifi County Principal Civil Registration Officer Robert Mbui (pictured), confirmed the power disconnection, saying they have been forced to suspend all the crucial services for the last two weeks. He said power was disconnected on July 4, prompting the suspension of key services like processing of birth and death certificates, ID’s, pass port among others. Mbui said the disconnection was reached to facilitate the payment of a pending Sh54, 000 debt. Caused disruption “The blackout began on 4th July. This was the deadline we were given by Kenya Power Lighting Company had elapsed. So far, we cannot access any data or process any document due to the power cuts,” Mbui said. He noted that since the beginning of the year, the government had not yet released the allocation of electricity for the premises. “The government has failed to release funds allocated for electricity since the beginning of this year. This situation has caused disruption of operation in the offices and even those seeking services,” he said. Kindiki beefs up security in Sondu after skirmishes by Noven Owiti and Kepher Otieno @PeopleDailyKe Security has been beefed up around the volatile Sondu market on the KisumuKericho border following deadly clashes. A spot check by People Daily established that several shops and other businesses have reopened after days of tension resulting from the violence. Kindiki noted that the masterminds and perpetrators of the violence were criminals who must be subjected to the full force of the law. He said security has been beefed up with 24-hour police patrols intensified on the border to calm the situation and arrest trouble makers. Peaceful co-existence The CS spoke after touring the area on Saturday where he held security meetings on the ground before addressing members of the public in efforts to promote peaceful co-existence. “We will not allow leaders to use evil means to incite the communities that have co-existed peacefully for years against each other. Those involved in sponsoring the conflict are criminals and will be dealt with in the dictates of the law,” he said. The CS statement comes in the wake of deaths which occurred as a result of the latest skirmishes on the border. So far, police report indicates that the clashes between the two communities living in the area had claimed two lives as at Friday while scores were left nursing injuries, although Kisumu leaders claim six lives have been lost. The unrest started on Wednesday last week, during the anti-government protests called by Azimio One Kenya coalition leaders. It then quickly degenerated to ethnic confrontation between two communities sharing Sondu market, and who have stayed in peace for years. But even as CS Kindiki warned suspected culprits against fuelling conflicts Patrols have intensified on the Kisumu-Kericho border to calm the situation after last Wednesday’s violence HIGHLIGHTS Local politicians have been trading barbs over the violence, with two governors from the region, Prof Anyang’ Nyong’o (Kisumu) and Dr Erick Mutai (Kericho), accusing unnamed political leaders of fueling the conflict. Nyong’o claimed that some politicians from Kericho were reportedly sponsoring the attacks with the help of the police. Two people, one of them a police reservist, were on Saturday evening killed in Laikipia West in separate incidents that interrupted the peaceful lull enjoyed since the reservists were reinstated. Stephen Kibuchi, a member of NPR was shot dead when a group of attackers engaged the reservists in a shootout at the border of Kongoni village and Laikipia Nature Conservancy. The deceased was in a group of reservists who had been mobilised because the Laikipia West Mp, Wachira Karani was touring the village. In the other incident, a 31-year-old businessman Maina Wambugu was shot dead when armed gangsters stormed his shop at Karaba trading centre. The gang stole money and shop goods before disappearing using a getaway motorcycle. Speaking after visiting the two families, Laikipia Senator, John Kinyua urged the government to equip the NPRs with drones and binoculars so that they can be scanning the Conservancy owned by conservationist Kuki Gullman. — by David Macharia Police reservist dies in shoot out at Laikipia Conservancy BRIEFLY “We want the Interior Ministry to bring lasting solution to the flaring ethnic conflict in Sondu to safeguard lives and stop more bloodshed,” Owili said. Oburu, Owuor and Oron said the opposition war with the government was not about the ethnic skirmishes but economic revolution. “What we have witnessed in Sondu is totally unacceptable. The violence amounts to ethnic cleansing,” claimed Owuor. They asked residents from the warring communities to refrain from retaliatory attacks and embrace peace for the common good of all. Ethnic skirmishes Similarly, the leaders asked the police to beef up security for all without prejudice, arguing that it was wrong for one side to be armed with arrows. “We went there with the police and it was so sad that one of the residents armed with an arrow just tried to run past the police to our side in vain,’’ claimed Owili. Owuor said if they aren’t stopped, Nyakach residents may dig in as well and that would spark ethnic skirmishes which ought to be avoided at all costs. on the border, a section of Nyanza leaders accused him of holding a one-sided meeting in Kericho over the clashes. Speaking at a political rally in Kisumu town, the leaders led by National Assembly minority leader Opiyo Wandayi, Kisumu deputy governor Mathews Owili, Nyakach MP Aduma Owuor, Siaya senator Oburu Oginga and Kisumu Central MP Joshua Oron wondered why the Kindiki did not invite them in his abrupt meeting with the local leaders to chart a way forward. Owili accused the police of failing to act to stop the attacks before they escalated, claiming that they were helping the attackers in their mission. KEN OKINAWA The malaria research centre is expected to ind a lasting solution to the ight against the disease.

BUSINESS HUB FOR MORE NEWS VISIT: www.pd.co.ke / www.epaper. pd.co.ke 15 Monday, July 17, 2023 Kenya Power to renew KenGen’s power deals by Herald Aloo @heraldaloo Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) will renew two of the three KenGen’s power supply contracts that had expired, in a move that offers a financial boost to the firm which has been instrumental in the country’s shift to renewable energy. The Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) of KenGen’s diesel-powered 60 megawatts (MW) Muhoroni gas turbine (GT) expired in April 2023 while the 45MW Olkaria1 geothermal facility expired in February 2023. By the end of this month, KenGen’s 73.5MW Kipevu 1 thermal plant contract will also lapse. KPLC managing director (MD) Joseph Siror disclosed last month that the agreements of both Muhoroni GT and Kipevu 1 were not up for renewal to cut reliance on costly SUSTAINED ACTIVITIES Orpower 22 Menengai plant is among the six PPAs that KPLC signed but the contracts lapsed due to lack of construction and ineffectiveness.   Six PPAs have a total capacity of 1107.16MW which included Amu Power as the biggest supplier of about 981.5MW of coal power. thermal power while utilising cheap power import from Ethiopia that was tapped last year. However, in a submission at a Parliamentary Energy Committee last week, the power utility revealed that it is negotiating for renewal of Muhoroni GT and Olkaria 1 contracts, meaning only Kipevu 1 plant will be retired. The renewal of the Olkaria 1 plant contract, which is the firm’s oldest unit, has been initiated by the government and will run for additional four years. That of Muhoroni GT will have a two-year extension. Rehabilitated plant “PPA expired 28th Feb 2023. Parties to negotiate a new PPA rehabilitated plant being developed by KenGen,” KPLC said in the submission signed by Siror. Olkaria 1 has been on a shutdown to pave the way for rehabilitation, increasing the capacity from the current 45MW to 63MW. KenGen sold 204.4 Gigawattshours (GWh) of electricity to Kenya Power from the Olkaria 1 plant in the financial year ending June 2022 while that from the Muhoroni GT plant was 40GWh. The thermal Muhoroni GT plant is the most expensive PPA, with a unit of its wholesale electricity to KPLC costing Sh58.8 according to Energy Cabinet Secretary (CS) Davies Chirchir who told the committee last week that the recent doubling of value added tax (VAT) on fuel to 16 per cent is likely to have a huge impact on the Muhoroni plant since it uses the dual-purpose Kerosene. Other thermal power plants with active PPA contracts use crude oil which was already subjected to 16 per cent VAT before the implementation of the Finance Act 2023. By the end of this month, the total number of PPAs that will have lapsed within the past two years will be five. This follows the expiry of Tsavo Power’s contract in September 2021 and Iberafrica Power’s in June 2023. The expiry of Kipevu 1, if not renewed, will allow the uptake of more renewable energy from hydro, geothermal and wind in the country. For instance, KPLC will issue a contract to Orpower 22 to supply 35MW of power from its Menengai Geothermal plant in Nakuru. Orpower is the only private geothermal producer in Kenya, will supply wholesale power to KPLC at a rate of $0.07 (Sh9.87) per unit. Indications were that the two were not up for renewal to cut reliance on costly thermal for cheap energy imports by Benard Sigei @PeopleDailyKe The Co-operative Bank has tapped a $100 million (Sh13.8 billion) longterm funding facility for a period of seven years for small and medium sized traders. The loan has been provided by a consortium of financial institutions led by DEG as the lead arranger, and facility agent primarily for support of Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) in Kenya. DEG is a development finance institution based in Germany. Co-op Bank plans to utilise the funding facility for on-lending to MSMEs, offering better financial solutions to meet their long-term financing needs. Dr. Gideon Muriuki, the Group Managing Director & CEO of Co-operative Bank said: “The facility has significantly boosted the bank’s ability to offer solutions that are better structured to fulfil the long-term financing needs of MSMEs. The other members of the consortium in the Tier II loan facility that has already been fully disbursed include The Africa Agriculture & Trade Investment Fund (AATIF), Micro Small Medium Enterprises Bonds (MSMEB), Finnfund, Norfund, and the co-financing facility European Financing Partners (EFP). Monika Beck, a member of DEG’s Management Board, said the lead arranger will help spur development . Co-op Bank taps Sh13.8b loan from DEG-led syndicate targeting MSMEs BRIEFLY MONEY: Diaspora remittances to Kenya reduced by $6.2 million (Sh879.5 million) in June 2023 to $345.9 (Sh49 billion) from $352.1 million (Sh49.9 billion) in May 2023, latest figures from the Central Bank of Kenya’s (CBK) weekly bulletin reveals. Despite the reduction, the inflows increased by 6.1 per cent on a year-on-year basis from the $326.1 million (Sh46.3 billion) in June 2022, to stand at $4,017 million (Sh569.8 billion) from $4.012 billion (Sh569.1 billion) in 2022, an increase of 0.1 per cent. Kenyans living abroad As of May 2023, the US accounted for 54 per cent of the inflows, maintaining its top position as the largest source of contributions from Kenyans living abroad. “The remittance inflows continue to support the current account and the foreign exchange (Forex) market,” the CBK said in its weekly bulletin. As of July 13, the regulator said usable forex reserves remained adequate at $7,481 million (Sh1.06 trillion) equivalent to 4.09 months of import cover. “This meets the CBK’s statutory requirement to endeavour to maintain at least 4 months of import cover,” the regulator said. The forex reserves had reduced to $6.152 million (Sh854 million) as of May 2023, equivalent to 3.62 months of import cover, but has progressively been inching upwards. In June, it was $7,459 million (Sh1.04 trillion). CBK maintains Forex reserves to balance Kenya’s payments, help influence the rate and support confidence in the market. They are essentially CBK’s backup funds used to stabilise the shilling in order to reduce volatility. The regulator said during the week in review, the shilling remained relatively stable against major international and regional currencies in the week ending June 13, exchanging at Sh141.29 to the US Dollar compared to Sh140.78 the previous week. In addition to being an important source of forex to boost economy, remittances are supporting many Kenyan livelihoods locally. Diaspora inflows drop by 6.1pc in June to Sh49b - CBK DEG senior investment manager Wilfred Apunda, director financial institutions (Africa) Michael Fischer, director finance & strategy at Co-op Bank Caroline Karimi, DEG management board member Monika Beck, Co-op Bank Group MD & CEO Gideon Muriuki, Norfund investment director Judy Kinyanjui and Antje Steiner, regional director East Africa at KfW DEG. Partly hidden are Norfund East Africa regional director William Nyaoke and Co-op Bank company secretary Sam Kibugi.PD/ GERALD ITHANA MONEY: The United Kingdom has signed a deal to join a trade pact with several countries in Asia and the Pacific, including Japan and Australia. The name of this pact - CPTPP - is an unwieldy mouthful, but it’s also a new club of 500 million people the UK will be able to access. So what does it mean for the fortunes of businesses and households? The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) is a trade agreement between 11 nations: Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam. Those founding members signed the Pacific trade pact in March 2018. Between them, they generate 13% of the world’s income. The UK is the first non-founding country to join, and will be its second biggest economy after Japan. It takes the value of the new grouping to £11 trillion. The short-term gains are marginal. The UK already had deals with the majority of these nations as part of its EU membership which have been carried over. Since Brexit, the UK has added Australia and New Zealand to its trade deal tally. - BBC UK agrees to join Asia’s trade club, but what is it?

SPIN THAT WHEEL: Edna Okerosi (centre), a gaming inspector with BCLB conducts the first draw of StarTimes recharge, buy and win promotion, as deputy director of marketing Stephen Ambitho (left) and Tamima Ibrahim, head of business development look on. The firm is rewarding subscribers in a campaign to celebrate 35 years of operations. PD/JOHN OCHIENG. DONE DEAL: AMREF Flying Doctors CEO Stephen Gitau gifts Automobile Association of Kenya CEO Francis Theuri during a meeting at the AA Kenya Head Office in Nairobi. The two firms entered into a partnership seeking to safeguard motorists and their families in the event of road accidents with evacuations. PD/ALICE MBURU FINANCING PLANS: FROM LEFT: HFC project manager Stanley Mwangi, with assistant project manager Eleanor Oloo and Barista Gardens chairlady Nyokabi Kamau during the Barista Gardens open day in Ruiru, Kiambu County. HFC commissioned the 58-acre master-planned gated community and is also offering financing to interested buyers. PD/GERALD ITHANA. LUCKY ONES: From left: Kubai Macharia, Ogola Samwel Ouma, David Gitimi Mburu, Joy Nafula Benjamin, Samuel Bosire Abel and Peter Tumbo Amwoma receive shopping hampers and a dummy cheque for Sh100,000 each from Lotto representative Johnson Chege alias General Theodore (centre) after emerging winner in the ongoing Shinda Mita na Lotto campaign. PD/GERALD ITHANA. QUALITY PRODUCTS: Participants show gratitude at the Brookside Dairy stand where the processor treated them to its products at this year’s Karura Community Chapel Run held at the Two Rivers Mall, Nairobi on Saturday. Brookside donated products worth nearly Sh 300,000 to support the 2023 charity run. PD/GERALD ITHANA. EMPOWERING ENTREPRENUERS: FROM LEFT: LG Electronics EA managing director Dongwon Lee, LG Electronics Home Appliances product manager Eden Seo and Hotpoint head of B2B and air conditioning services Ravi Kanani share a light moment during the inaugural Commercial Laundry Seminar in Nyali, Mombasa County. The seminar is part of LG Electronics EA’s commitment to champion the expansion of digital laundromats across the country and empower entrepreneurs in the commercial laundry industry. PD/ ALICE MBURU BUILDING CAPACITY: CIC Group chief executive officer Patrick Nyaga (left) engages Egerton University Sacco CEO Jane Kaimuri and Kenya Police Sacco CEO Solomon Atsiaya during the insurer’s annual Saccos CEOs Forum where more than 200 co-operative executives benefitted from CIC’s blended business and strategic management capacity building programmes aimed at increasing the growth and competitiveness of co-operative enterprises in Kenya. PD/JOHN OCHIENG. 16 BUSINESS PICTORIAL PEOPLE DAILY / Monday, July 17, 2023 NEW DEAL: From Left: Beri Udyog (P) Limited area manager for Africa Himank Kochhar, Car & General MD for trading David Chesoni, agricultural division manager Naomi Karagu and Beri Udyog (P) Limited executive director Karan Beri discuss the features of one of the Beroni implements after Car & General was appointed the sole distributor of Beroni farm implements in Kenya. PD/ALICE MBURU INVESTING IN WATER: From left: Capital Markets Authority chair Ugas Mohamed, Eldoret Water and Sanitation Company (ELDOWAS) MD Peter Biwot, Kenya Association of Stockbrokers and Investment Banks (KASIB) chair Donald Wangunyu and the KASIB Chief advisor John Mwaniki during the signing ceremony of an MoU between KASIB and ELDOWAS at the Mercure Hotel on 11th July 2023. PD/ JOHN OCHIENG.

Jeddah, Sunday Sudanese army representatives have returned to Jeddah in Saudi Arabia for talks with their paramilitary foes, according to news agencies citing government sources, as the war between rival generals entered its fourth month. “A delegation of the armed forces has returned to Jeddah to resume negotiations with Rapid Support Forces (RSF) rebels,” a government source told the AFP news agency on Saturday. There was no immediate comment from the RSF on returning to the talks in Jeddah, which Saudi and US mediators adjourned last month after a series of violated ceasefires. Separately, a mediation attempt launched by Egypt began on Thursday, an effort welcomed both by the Sudanese army – which has close ties to Egypt – and the RSF. Sudan army back in Jeddah as war enters fourth month Representatives return to Saudi Arabia for talks with paramilitary rivals, according to reports in war-torn nation On April 15, a power struggle between army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his former deputy, RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, burst into an allout war, killing at least 3,000 and displacing more than three million people. The delegation in Saudi Arabia signalled a return to diplomatic efforts by the army, after it boycotted talks last week in Ethiopia hosted by East African regional bloc, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). Khartoum’s foreign ministry had objected to Kenyan President William Ruto’s leadership of the IGAD quartet, accusing Nairobi of siding with the RSF. Before the Jeddah talks were suspended, US mediators had grown increasingly frustrated with both sides’ reluctance to work towards a sustained truce. Experts believe both Burhan and Daglo have opted for a war of attrition instead, hoping to extract greater concessions at the negotiating table later. No respite For three months, barely a day has passed for residents of the capital Khartoum without their homes shaking from air raids, artillery blasts and gun battles. To escape the brutal urban warfare and Hot summer in Gaza City A child gets inside a big water can to cool off during a very hot summer in the al-Nasr neighbourhood. Palestinian families in the village of Um Al-Naser in northern Gaza are suffering from a shortage of water. During hot weather, access to water is crucial for families living in the area. They have to travel a long distance to get water from a well. However, they still manage to get water for bathing children due to the high temperatures, as well as for drinking and cooking. - Xinhua SA army deployed across provinces following mystery truck attacks Cape Town, Sunday South Africa deployed the army in four of its provinces after at least 21 trucks carrying goods were set on fire in various parts of the country in the span of five days. In numerous instances, armed men forced drivers out of their vehicles before setting the trucks alight in the middle of major roads. Truck driver Nkoskhona, from KwaZulu, Natal, who transports fuel to various filling stations in the country said he felt relieved. “We’ll feel safe and our families will be at ease as we were not safe on the roads,” he said. Police Minister said last week there is a possibility that the truck burnings are economic sabotage against South Africa. The police were hunting for at least 12 people. The truck burnings appear to have started on Sunday, the second anniversary of the start of the 2021 protests. Authorities haven’t established the motive for the truck attacks, nor if they are connected to each other as they took place in various parts of the country. “These are organized and sophisticated operations,” minister Cele said in a statement released by the South African government’s official news agency. Authorities haven’t reported any deaths or serious injuries related to the torching of trucks. Authorities haven’t reported any deaths or serious injuries related to the torching of trucks. Trucks have previously been burned in South Africa as a form of protest against the government for failing to provide basic services, but the number torched this week was unusually high. The move came amid concerns of more violent unrest over a court decision that could send former president Jacob Zuma back to jail, although authorities denied the two issues are connected. - Africanews SUDAN CRISIS IN STALEMATE There was no immediate comment from the RSF on returning to the talks in Jeddah, which Saudi and US mediators adjourned last month after a series of violated ceasefires. On April 15, a power struggle between army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his former deputy, RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, burst into an all-out war, killing at least 3,000 and displacing more than three million people Sonko to vie for Senegal presidency President says Tunis not land for ‘settling’ Senegalese opposition figure Ousmane Sonko has been nominated as a candidate in the 2024 presidential election, his party announced on Friday, despite Sonko’s uncertain eligibility and shortly after the banning of a rally scheduled for Saturday in Dakar to make his candidacy official. Sonko was sentenced on June 1 to two years’ imprisonment in a vice case, a verdict which, according to his lawyers and legal experts, renders him ineligible. He was also given a six-month suspended prison sentence on May 8 in an appeal for defamation, a sentence widely perceived as rendering him ineligible for the presidential elections. But he has not yet exhausted his appeals to the Supreme Court. Sonko is due to speak on Friday, according to his party. He has been blocked by security forces at his home in Dakar, “sequestered” according to him, since May 28. - Africanews In a speech to senior officials in the presidential palace Friday, Tunisia’s president doubled down on accusations that criminal networks supported the presence of undocumented migrants in the north African country. His remarks come as local NGOs sounded the alarm over the dire situation of sub-Saharan African migrants expelled from the city of Sfax. “This immigration is a displacement operation, not a regular immigration. It is supervised by criminal networks that traffic in human beings and organs who aim not only to make money, but also to destabilize the country,” Kais Saied said. “I’ll say it again: we are Africans, and we are proud of our African identity. But we refuse to be a land of transit or a land of settlement.” Some stretches of Tunisia’s coastline lie some hundred kilometres away from the Italy. – Al Jazeera BRIEFLY rampant looting, 1.7 million people have fled the capital, according to the United Nations. Millions remain in the city, sheltering at home as the violence shows no signs of abating. Witnesses again reported “clashes using various types of weapons” in the capital’s northwest on Saturday as well as air raids from army fighter jets in the south. Sudan’s health ministry said at least four civilians were killed and four others were injured in a drone attack that targeted a hospital in the city of Omdurman. The ministry accused the RSF of carrying out the attack. The UN has said that most hospitals in combat zones were out of service. Outside Khartoum, the worst fighting has taken place in the western region of Darfur, where a quarter of Sudan’s 48 million people live. Villages and neighbourhoods there have been destroyed, with reports of mass civilian deaths and assassinations of officials, blamed on the RSF and allied militias. The International Criminal Court has launched a probe into suspected war crimes, including sexual violence and civilians being targeted for their ethnicity. - Xinhua 17 WORLD NEWS FOR MORE NEWS VISIT: www.pd.co.ke / www.epaper. pd.co.ke Monday, July 17, 2023

Take Off Guru 18 Monday, July 17, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY Youths wearing outfits inspired by a dystopian look plant trees in Mathare slums. PD/SHUKRI WACHU Creatives and environmentalists are reimagining a better world through an artistic lens to help champion conservation and sustainable ways of living, especially in the slums STONEFACE BOMBAA It is now time to take care of our environment amid the population pressures that have seen green spaces being destroyed Spacesuit-clad youths seeking to heal degraded environment RANDOM SENSE WITH EVELYN MAKENA Drowning, a leading cause of accidental deaths abandoning our environment and seeking refuge on another planet. We all agreed that we do not have to destroy our environment.” Kairos Futura blurs lines between art, design, community building and environmental activism, to reimagine a better world through an artistic lens and this has helped them to champion conservation and sustainable ways of living. “The designs we used for this tree planting ritual exude a captivating allure, resembling the attire of space explorers. However, our true endeavour lies in the rewriting of our narratives and conveying to others that the hurdles we confront can be overcome through localised solutions,” Rop remarked. Research on Nairobi River Deep inside the neighbourhood, efforts are also underway to devise ways that would see the polluted Nairobi River that snakes its way here also cleaned-up. The idea is to give residents the tools to protect their environment while also combating disease outbreaks that can plague the area as a result of dirty water and destroyed habitats. William Ng’ang’a, an accomplished scientist, is currently engaged in extensive research aimed at examining the impacts of pollution on the rivers of Nairobi. As part of his groundbreaking work, he has successfully gathered samples from major Nairobi rivers, meticulously analysed them, and documented the various contaminants present within. In addition to his scientific investigations, Ng’ang’a has taken the initiative to establish a reed bed system, designed to naturally purify the polluted water, thus facilitating its re-use for the purpose of irrigating green spaces. “We hope the mini wetland we are setting up will filter the polluted water, which we are setting up a containment system for. Already there is great knowledge transfer and we hope even once we are done with this project, residents can take it up and continue to conserve their environment,” said Ng’ang’a. by Shukri Wachu @PeopleDailyKe A cluster of humble structures defined by corrugated iron sheets that adorn the roofs of hundreds of modest dwellings in Nairobi’s Mathare neighbourhood stand proud, bouncing off fierce beams of sunlight from the boundless sky. With each passing moment, the reflective iron sheets are transformed into animated canvases mirroring the shifting hues of daylight. The intense glare of the sun here can at times become unforgiving, particularly since a vast portion of the neighbourhood is devoid of any trees. Without the sheltering canopy of trees, the landscape continues to feel barren with attempts to manoeuvre here at times proving to be a great test of endurance. Space station A group of environmentally conscious and resilient youth are, however, finding ways to adapt to the harsh environment by rewilding their neighbourhood through an ambitious project seeking to restore green spaces in slums and informal settlements across Nairobi. The initiative is being spearheaded by scores of artists under the banner of Kairos Futura, an artist-led organisation that launched a project titled, Nairobi Space Station. The group of over 100 youth is challenging residents to harness the power of local resources to encourage sustainable living while combating threats to the environment. “Mathare used to be a hub for the Mau Mau fighters during Kenya’s struggle for independence. There is a rich history here and I believe it is now time to take care of our environment amid the population pressures that have seen green spaces being destroyed,” said Stoneface Bombaa, a member of the Mathare Green Movement. Through the Nairobi Space Station Project, Bombaa who is also a visual artist was tasked with creating colourful wearables as part of a tree-planting ritual aimed at encouraging residents to preserve their environment while being sensitised to the threats of climate change. The commissioned Nairobi Space Station, envisioned in 2021, presents a thoughtprovoking portrayal of a dystopian Nairobi, where a nomadic existence dominates. This imaginative creation serves as a vivid depiction of a potential future, highlighting the dire consequences we may face if environmental preservation is neglected. As a native Mathare resident, Bombaa is spearheading the tree planting exercise albeit not how many here expected. He arrives dressed in a monochromatic jungle green overall alongside several of his colleagues dressed similarly, apart from a couple dressed in black and a maroon version of the same outfit. “The outfits were inspired by a dystopian look of what Nairobi would be like if we do not take care of our environment. The helmet we wore is made from recyclable materials showcasing the use of local resources to provide solutions to the challenges we face,” he said. Provoking the minds Noticeably, their helmets have been plastered with red soil all around, and tree seedlings planted at the top of the design on their heads to signify that if residents truly nature their environment, then, they will flourish beyond their wildest expectations. As the creatives walk into Mathare, they do so in a single file. All is silence as residents stare, oblivious to what is happening. This, some say is not what they thought a treeplanting ritual would entail. The move was, however, intentional, purposed to provoke and even challenge their perceptions of what environmental degradation would mean to their homes. Once they identified the area where the tree seedlings would be planted, they proceeded to perform an elaborate mourning, a ritual aimed at linking the society to mother earth, while seeking forgiveness for the damage they have inflicted on the environment whether knowingly or unknowingly. “When we first conducted the mourning ritual people had no idea what was happening, some even appeared scared, but they understood that even in the African culture when one makes a mistake, it is not uncommon for rituals to be conducted to seek favour or forgiveness. At the end of it, however, they saw what we were doing and now they are fully behind our project,” noted Bombaa. The residents of the extensive slum neighbourhood have reached a consensus to allocate specific areas for the purpose of revitalising the environment by planting trees. Designated green spaces that will also include a children’s playground will also be set up as part of the initiative. The co-founder of the Nairobi Space Station project, Abdul Rop, hailed the rewinding of the capital’s inner city as integral to combating ecological threats to the environment. Rop stated, “Nairobi faces a complex challenge involving water and waste management, along with a scarcity of green spaces that have been engulfed by urban sprawl. In response, we have devised a concept that questions the notion of QUICK FIGURES >> Drowning causes 372,000 deaths globally every year >> 90% of these deaths are in low and middle income countries >> Drowning accounts for 7% of the injury related deaths >> Globally, over 50% of all drowning incidents are death among children and young people 1-24 years. Drowning is a significant public health concern, causing the highest number of deaths for children and young people aged one to 24 years. Despite drowning being highly preventable, there is a gap in broad strategies that target prevention. For drowning, chances of survival are determined by swift response in removing someone from the water and resuscitation. Like many injuries, even when drowning does not result in death, it may end up causing disability and lifelong misery to survivors. Putting up barriers to control exposure to water bodies, close supervision of children and high awareness of water risk are some of the measures that can mitigate

Clique & Clicks Get Spotted PEOPLE DAILY / Monday, July 17, 2023 19 LET’S HANG OUT by Faith Kyoumukama Foodies and other content creators had a great moment immersing themselves in what they do best during the recent launch of the Hang Out experience by Holiday Inn in Nairobi. A collaborative initiative with East African Breweries Ltd’s The Bar platform, it seeks to provide a distinct and enjoyable experience to foodies and related creative content creators. The event provided guests with an opportunity to connect, engage, and savour the delicious cuisine while enjoying live entertainment. Also present was the hotel’s GM Amit Sharma. PD/FAITH KYOUMUKAMA Digital content creators Joy Kendi and Joanna Kinuthia. Content creators Keah Shiveka and Vivian Mutheu. Diana Ingosi, Natalie Tewa, Susan Kariuki and Zerah Bamtu. Daniel Njuguna, Hellen Sein and Bill Asura. Digital content creator Zerah Bamtu. by Adalla Allan Spotify’s Africa team recently in Nairobi hosted a mid-year networking dinner and a conversation centred around music streaming and emerging music trends in Kenya with a group of influencers and press partners. The dinner also served as the Kenyan launch of the music streaming platform’s VIP programme. Spotify data shows that the key trend to emerge in Kenya in 2023 has been older artistes making a comeback. Topping the list of artists who saw the biggest increase in their streams, who first released music before 1990 was the late Tina Turner, who saw a 454 per cent increase in streams following her death in May. Kenyan Zilizopendwa musician and Anjelike hitmaker John Nzenze saw a 139 per cent increase in streams of his music over the last month. PD/ADALLA ALLAN The power of streams Spotify communications head Michelle Atagana, Liz Madowo of Irvine Partners PR and photographer Festo Lang. Influencer Gufy Dox. Singer, actor and influencer Patricia Melinda Kirwa, Leila Namisango and Jacquline Mahugu. Holiday Inn PR personnel Ivy Irungu with the hotel’s GM Amit Sharma. Content creator Hellen Sein.

20 PEOPLE DAILY / Monday, July 17, 2023 @reubenmwambingu It’s that time of the semester again where students’ belongings in my residential hall disappear into thin air with no single explanation. One would probably think there’s a bogeyman who’s rented a room within us and does the unimaginable thing once comrades have received their Helb upkeep monies. Sadly, no one is bothered by this uncouth behaviour where alleged student crooks walk away with fellow student’s belongings like clothes, specially ladies innerwear from hanging lines and crocs outside rooms doorway. Not even, Kimani our teetotaler caretaker, whose core role here is to ensure the safety and wellness of students residing in Maridadi Hostels is disturbed by this. Seemingly, he doesn’t give much attention, but abhors tenants who clear their rent when time is due. Nevertheless, with that said, despite receiving multiple complaints from comrades this semester, Kimani had done nothing to ensure our stay is comfy. He’s one hell of an adamant and old-fashioned Neanderthal and this has cost him nothing else but slurs and unprintable words from tenants. However, last weekend he bowed down to pressure and called us for an impromptu hostel meeting to discuss and air out our injustices, which is quite ironical. Heaven knows how long I’ve itched for this moment. Distantly, it was evident that he had something salient to debut to us regarding students’ welfare since a team of installation guys who were clad in all blue had accompanied him. With them, they had nanny CCTV cameras and cables. The exchange during the baraza revolved around the wanton insecurity within our premises and what they pledge to do in the next few days in order to maintain and keep off intruders from accessing our flats. Kimani, had invited this tech-savvy team from Nairobi, solely for CCTV installation all-round our hostel. He was fed up with complaints from infuriated tenants. Kimani had some nuggets of wisdom to share during the meeting, “Security starts with you as an individual” he said. Truth be told, the meeting wouldn’t have happened if I hadn’t complained about my expensive crocs that someone stole at my doorstep.I loved them. They were attractive. And to be frank, I bought them using my Helb monies and someone might have been hypnotised by them and decided to stalk me, purposely to know where I stay. I realised that they’d gone missing later on while I was getting ready to trek to Mama Mboga’s kiosk at around 9pm. Comrades love darkness and anything closely related to it. It’s when all odious activities like going to the posho mill, romancing broke campus girls, buying smochas et al, happen. To give a short version of what happened next, I eventually had to dig deep into my almost broke pocket with the express of not walking barefoot by buying new crocs. Cursed is he who that stoleth from me! -As passed to Tom by Jackson Ngari CAMPORAGE Spice Flavour your day With Tom Bosich Of comrades with sticky fingers CULTURE CAPTURED IN ART A gainst the arty-lit background atop the historic Fort Jesus in Mombasa, artistes of the coastal citybased Jukwa Arts crew take the stage ready to thrill the audience with a night showcase of the Mijilkenda culture. It is shortly after 6pm and for the next two hours or so, the exuberant artistes virtually maroon the Fort with a jawdropping fever pitch performance, leaving hundreds of guests begging for more. By creative use of captivating drama carefully fused in traditional songs and dances, the artistes clad in age-old traditional attire; creatively capture key aspects of typical Mijikenda cultural practices in a heartwarming play, Midizimidzi, which follows an attention-grabbing story of a character christened Gilbert Dzuya and his family. The play depicts Dzuya, a learned upperclass Mijikenda man, who moved from his rural home in Dzanikeni in the remote parts of Kilii to the city. Fifteen years later, on his daughter’s graduation party, the family is embroiled in a sustained string of predicaments, as spirits of his deceased father strike home, haunting the family with demands concerning rites owed to him in death. Primitive and backward In sheer disdain, Dzuya who speaks in almost polished English and dons a designer outit attempts to dismiss the ‘demands of the dead’ as primitive and backward, but not without consequences. Bouts of dreams persistently strike his graduate daughter who represents the current generation with her constant taking of selies and chatting on social media. The daughter is often heard speaking to her deceased grandfather in dreams. The family also encounters endless attacks by a swarm of bees as demands by the dead continue to pile up. As the play unfolds, the ecstatic audience grows in an aura of merriment. And with the gaiety growing with every scene, the audience that is largely comprised of Generation Z youth is taken through a journey of forgotten yet present cultures. The play is part of the Jukwaa Arts’ project Chimidzi Midzi, a Mijikenda phrase that loosely translates to home matters. The theater company is using theatre performance to archive the almost forgotten ancestral memory of the Mijikenda community, with speciic focus on rituals and ceremonies. Caroline Ngorobi, a theatre producer and founder of Jukwa Arts Company, says the project is a collaborative process with the communities involved. “We consider the communities the living memory and current custodians of culture. We have been getting information from them, we create a play that we now showcase to a younger generation who know little or even nothing about their cultures, just so that we don’t lose everything when our living memory are out of this world,” she tells Spice, adding that the project has been supported by a grant from Ignite Culture. Restitution of artefacts The idea, Ngorobi says, was informed by the reality of culture as a forgotten issue and was especially catapulted further by conversation around restitution of artefacts and objects belonging to the Mijikenda. “The government has been doing so much to try and repatriate cultural objects and artefacts that were stolen from the Mijikenda. Well, some of these objects have come back, but they are still at the Fort Jesus Museum and that got me thinking because nobody seems to know whether they are there. You ask youth about the artefacts yet no one seems to know the meaning of the said artefacts hence the importance of researching, and archiving the culture for current and future generations,” Ngorobi explains. In 2019, the then Culture and Heritage CS Amina Mohamed led a ceremony at Fort Jesus to receive vigango — carved memorial posts, which the Mijikenda regard as commemorative spirit markers. The artefacts were returned by the Denver Museum National History after being stolen from various parts of Kilii and sold to foreigners many years ago. Vigango are erected by the Mijikenda people at a chosen place at a given homestead in memory of departed members of the Gohu society, a sacred organisation of Mijikenda elders also known as the Society of the Blessed. Mzee Hamisi Katana Charo, an octogenarian from remote parts of Kaloleni Giriama in Kilii county, says growing cases of insanity, deaths, and teenage pregnancies among other increased misfortunes that have continued to bedevil the Mijikenda could be attributed to abandonment of culture coupled with the utter disrespect of these ritual artefacts by today’s society. He recalls how such posts have been disappearing from various homesteads since the mid-80s, saying since then, there has been widespread theft and global trade in vigango for several decades. Greed for money Although the people behind theft of vigango are not clearly known, it is believed some local Mijikenda youth in a quest for easy money have been uprooting the posts and selling them to westerners who mistake them for art, thereby giving them high value in the global market. Most of these artefacts were traced to museums and curio shops in Europe and the US. Local communities have been clamouring to have the vigango returned back to respective owners. Towards the end of the play, Dzuya accedes to the demands of his departed father by consulting the elders who initiate the process of creating a Kigango, among other practices. Kaya Kauma chairman Mzee Hilary Mwatsuma Kalama, who participated in the play as a Kaya elder, hails the idea of archiving the Mijikenda culture through creation and presentation of performing and visual arts as spot on. “As elders, we are winding up our time in this world. We shall leave you the youth behind. What will happen to the future generation if you fail to record this important culture? This is why the idea of this play is important. In culture, we harbour a lot of important things to society and even the ecosystem,” Kalama reckons. In the modern times, a lot of African culture is being lost. But as Reuben Mwambingu writes, a group of artistes at the Kenyan Coast is taking nothing lying down in its attempt to see the preservation of the Mijikenda culture We consider the communities the living memory and current custodians of culture NGOROBI Ecstatic audience follows the Midizimidzi play. COURTESY

Monday, July 17, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY 21 Here’s how to keep your marriage going… TWOINONE In our last week column, we explored how we can tell when our marriages are due for service. This week, we look at four practical steps, according to Rev Dr Rob Toornstra, that we can take to maintain and care for our marriages so that they can go the distance. The first step is being intentional about connecting with each other. When you first fell in love, you didn’t need to think of being together. You looked for any and every opportunity to be together. But today when forced to be together like what happened during Covid 19 pandemic, you feel as if you are in Kamiti Maximum Prison. What happened? You were “high” on dopamine, and serotonin, the feel good hormones. This doesn’t last long and when the honeymoon is over, you will need to be intentional about connecting with each other. Second is to ensure that you nourish your relationship. Anything you feed grows. How are you feeding your relationship? When you first started dating, the physical connection was electric! You held hands wherever you went, kissed when you said hello and goodbye, and had sex regularly. But now, with a handful of children, a stressful job, and busy schedule, intimacy can feel like one more item to tick on the checklist. You need to look for and do things that nourish and feed your relationship. Third, identify what your trouble spots are and exercise care in how you handle them. Most marriages have particular issues that are sensitive; maybe your mother-in-law is controlling, or one of you tends to spend too much time at work. These hotbuttons can quickly flare up and get out of control. When you see your spouse reacting in a certain way, don’t be quick to judge them. Instead, find out what it is that is frustrating them. Know when to address certain issues. Finally, learn to work through conflict. This is where many marriages are falling apart. Most engines knock simply because we fail to see that “check engine” light, which is our anger. Anger has never been the primary emotion, it is secondary. There are some underlying issues behind the issue you are dealing with. It’s not the dishes in the sink, but a fear of disrespect, or a loss of control, or an undermining of authority that drives the anger. You It’s all about Life & Style TIP OF THE WEEK Perhaps we are in this world to search for love, ind it and lose it, again and again. With each love, we are born anew, and with each love that ends, we collect a new wound. I am covered with proud scars. — Isabel Allende H i Achokis. When I was 20 years, I dated and was planning to get married to my first love. But two weeks to our wedding, we disagreed and cancelled the wedding. I was left with a nine-month-old son and an expensive wedding gown. Nine years later, I met a man who said he was a pastor. He told me God told him I was his wife. Due to the fear of God, I accepted though, I never loved him. I became pregnant for him before our wedding and when I told him I was pregnant, he told me to abort. I chose to move in with him due to hardship. Fifteen years later, we have four children, but I have gone through hell living with him. We recently separated, but he keeps pursuing me, yet he still doesn’t want to wed me and hasn’t even paid dowry for me. I’m confused and don’t know whether to go back to him or not. Please advise! -Tabitha THE ACHOKIS OUR TAKE... H i Tabitha. Thank you for reaching out. We can only imagine what you are going through. Whilst marriage is primarily meant for companionship, people get married for different reasons — to get children, for financial support, for status so that people can see that they are also married. At 20, when entering your first marriage, you were probably young and naive. As for the second marriage, it may have been due to something else. Emotional baggage Sometimes people get into a rebound, where an individual who just recently ended a romantic relationship gets involved with someone else despite not being emotionally healed from the breakup. This can take years. The wounds of the other relationship still linger and cause pain and they think that getting into another relationship will bring healing to their pain or revengefully hurt the previous lover. Your husband’s character from the time you met is also questionable. Why did you succumb to him? Could it be that the emotional baggage from your first love made you vulnerable to him? You mentioned that you didn’t love your second man when you decided to move in with him. No one should ever force you to do something that you are not comfortable with and you feel is wrong. For now, the issue shouldn’t even be whether he should wed you or pay dowry. You shouldn’t even consider going back to him unless certain issues are addressed. Focus on yourself First, focus on yourself. You have been through so much and have suffered abandonment, serious rejection, and hurt. You need to seek counselling to help you deal with you. What is it that you are looking for? No relationship can fill those holes in our lives. We need to be made whole before we can even seek to be in relationship with others. You need to find yourself. Your self-esteem and self-image have obviously been destroyed by what you’ve gone through. That needs to be fixed before you can even think of fixing your marriage. When you are fixed, you will be in a good position to make the right decisions going forward. The writers are marriage and relationship coaches [email protected] Please help! Relationships have given me ‘character development’ A little slumber, and like a vagabond, poverty has pounced on you and eaten you alive. Poverty is a silent game of stealth. Yaani, it is hidden in the tiny nuances of life that make it hard to get out of the debt cycle. A debt here and a debt there and you are living like a king today. Tomorrow you shall deal with being poor and in the negatives. But today, today you are in heaven. Because the road to poverty is paved with all things beautiful. Here are just a few that you might want to avoid” 1. The exquisite art of ordering food In the modern era of convenience, ordering food has become a way of life. But little did we know that with each swipe of our credit card, poverty quietly slips through the backdoor. Picture this: You are browsing through a fancy food delivery app, drooling over the gourmet options. You add an item to your cart, thinking it’s just a harmless treat, but oh no! Poverty grins mischievously, knowing that your wallet will soon be wailing in agony. Suddenly, that extra side dish feels more like a piece of your soul being sold to the devil! And you pay for it with Tala and Fuliza and slip a few thousand shillings closer to poverty. 2. The cab conundrum Ride hailing apps, the saviour of our commuting woes, come with their shiny list of advantages such as convenience and not getting rained on in the rainy season. But lo and behold, as you sink into the plush backseat of your ride like the boss you feel like, poverty jumps into the driver’s seat, ready to take you on an unexpected detour. The metre starts ticking, and your bank account starts shrinking! Who knew that the luxury of avoiding public transportation could come with a price tag that is costlier than what is displayed at the end of the ride? You do now. 3. The discount trap Discounts are advertising’s way of getting you to spend more than the zero budget you started off with. You are not winning when you buy that wig at a discount, the store is. Your feelings of satisfaction and glee might disagree, but your empty bank account would heartily agree. You are not winning either when you get that 65-inch TV at a discount and are even allowed to pay it over 65 months of monthly installments! You may feel good now, but the long-term cost will leave your wallet emptier than a politician’s promises! In the grand theater of life, poverty makes its entrance through the most mundane actions. From ordering food that leaves your wallet hungry, ordering clothes that make you look and feel fashionable while you have nothing more, to embarking on Uber rides that drain your bank account, poverty has a way of reminding us of its presence at every turn. So just be aware of that and avoid these poverty traps. Afterall, if you stay rich that is one more person to get money from. To poverty hell in a hand basket MILLENIAL MIX WITH NJERI MAINA

Essential nutrients Prof Catherine Kunyanga, an associate professor in the department of food science, nutrition and technology at the University of Nairobi says depending on age and gender, meat consumption needs to be limited so as not to cross the redline of being a health danger instead of being a source of proteins. She says, for children, meat provides essential nutrients that support bone and muscle development and that is why parents are encouraged to feed their children on animal proteins. “However, when it comes to adults, we only need a small portion of meat for iron, zinc and vitamins. Any extra consumed meat Your Health It matters 22 PEOPLE DAILY / Monday, July 17, 2023 is converted to fats, which are stored in the body, which then result in obesity that comes with so many related diseases, such as diabetes, high blood pressure and much more,” she shares. The professor says due to various reasons, such as culture and taboos, social economy, men are likely to suffer from the effects of over-consumption of meat. “Men eat more meat, because of our cultural beliefs and taboos and also the fact that the majority do not like to eat vegetables and they are economically advantaged compared to women and, therefore, can afford to eat more meat,” she by Wahinya Henry @PeopleDailyKE Use and effectiveness of vaginal ring technology as an innovation tool to check spread of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in Kenya will be known at the conclusion and findings of a study to be carried in three counties. The vaginal ring technology is a small, flexible ring worn inside the vagina will be the focus of the study that begins in this month in Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu will be carried out by LVCT, University of Nairobi and Path Kenya, says Millicent Kiruki, senior research officer LVCT Health. It is a World Health Organisation (WHO) five-year programme, which apart from Kenya, is to be implemented in South Africa, Botswana, Eshwatini, Lesotho, Namibia. Uganda, Zimbabwe and Nigeria. The WHO recommended dapivirine vaginal ring ( DPV-VR ) as a new choice for HIV prevention for women at substantial risk of HIV infection. “It is part of combination prevention approaches” Kiruki said at a two day national People Living with HIV (PLHIV) dialogue forum organised by The National Empowerment Network of People living with HIV/Aids in Kenya (NEPHAK) Kiruki said young people and key populations will be reached once studies affirm the effectiveness of the ring in efforts to reduce by Malemba Mkongo @PeopleDailyKE E very evening, thousands of Kenyans gather around city bars and clubs as they recollect about their day’s activities. These sittings are normally accompanied by kilogrammes of meat washed down with bottles of alcohol. This is just but an extension of a typical Kenyan weekend culture where tonnes of nyama choma, unofficial Kenya’s national dish, is consumed by millions of Kenyans thronging entertainment joints across the country for some enjoyment. What a majority of citizens are not aware of are the risks that come with over-consumption of meat to both their own health, as well as its contribution to the current global crisis, climate change. For Mark Andawa, going to an entertainment joint and gobbling kilos of meat alongside alcohol was part of his daily routine until his health took a dip. Andawa says his love for meat, especially red grilled meat was insatiable and a day could not go without him consuming meat. “It was like a doctor’s prescription that every meal should be accompanied by meat at home, but mostly at the bars where there was no control of the amount I would consume. In our Kenyan culture, when meat tastes good, you keep asking for more and more,” he says. Also, meat consumption has for long been perceived as a sign of “heavy pockets”, and the more one consumes it is proof enough of a man earning well. Link between meat and diseases Over the time, Andawa says he started noticing changes with his weight and his first assumption was that it might be due to too much consumption of alcohol. “I noticed that I could no longer walk for long distances and I was having challenges breathing. And my first action was to reduce my alcohol intake, but then there was no significant difference,” he notes. Andawa then opted to go to the hospital where doctors discovered that he was suffering from Type 2 diabetes and hypertension. “It came as a surprise, because I believed that diabetes is a hereditary disease and to learn that I got it due to my careless lifestyle was a shock,” he says. With this discovery, it was clear that he was staring at a life of medication, but he had an option of remedying the situation. Instead of whining and crying, Andawa chose to repackage his life by quitting on alcohol, roasted meat and sedentary lifestyle and forge a new path. He says, “My first step was to quit alcohol and reduce the amount of meat I ate. This was not a walk in the park. It took me an entire year to comfortably eat a meal without meat. At first, it felt like torture, but then I got used Study of vaginal ring and PrEP f How eating too much meat is fuelling a health crisis Medics and scientists call for a reduction in animal flesh consumption,linking it to, among other things, increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, Type 2 diabetes,as well as climate change However, when it comes to adults, we only need a small portion of meat for iron, zinc and vitamins. Any extra consumed meat is converted to fats, which are stored in the body. to it.” He further reveals that he also had to enroll for fitness classes in a move to shed off some of the excess weight. “It is close to a year now since I changed my lifestyle and I can tell for sure, an uncontrolled amount of meat can actually send someone to an early grave. I still consume meat, but with limitations,” he says. Different studies have shown a great link between high consumption of meat and increased risk of various diseases such as heart diseases, diabetes, pneumonia, respiratory infections, high blood pressure, among other serious illnesses. Also, initial studies have indicated that intake of red and processed meat heightens the risks of cancer, especially colon or bowel cancer. Another 2019 report published in BMJ Medical journal found that consumption of red meat, processed meat and poultry meat, such as chicken and turkey, either alone or together, at least three times a week was not only linked to a greater risk of nine different illnesses, but also shortening of life span. Their results add to the growing evidence from researchers and the World Health Organisation that eating too much meat, especially red and processed meat can damage one’s health. Prof Catherine Kunyanga Dr Victor Yamo Dr Jane Njuguna

Monday, July 17, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY 23 INFOGRAPHICS: PATRICK OKUNA Understanding the impact of cholesterol on your health NUTRITION WITH WINNIE WANGARE aginal ring and PrEP for HIV prevention begins in Kenya Africa, says 360 tonnes of meat is consumed every year globally. He says, the situation is expected to get worse due to the growing population, urbanisation caused by people moving from rural to the town centres, as well as growing economic prosperity. “By 2030, there will be a 30 per cent increase in meat consumption in Africa. The demand will then come with the need to produce more meat, which will see producers move to intensive animal farming,” he says. He says this farming system will eventually have an impact on public health, because the animals’ welfare will be given a priority. “Recent research and the history of pandemics shows intensive farming systems have contributed to 50 per cent of pandemics, including Covid-19. This will further contribute to the ongoing global crisis, climate change, due to its high greenhouse emissions,” Yamo says. Yamo says there is a need to call for reduction on consumption of meat so as to reduce the demand and save Kenyans from both health and environmental effects. working towards ensuring the availability of these plant-based proteins. “To encourage Kenyans to eat more legumes and cereals, we need to ensure we change the recipes of how grains taste, make sure there are ready-to-eat cereals to cut time wasted in cooking them, and also ensure they are much cheaper than meat. These are some of the solutions to reducing over-consumption of meat in Kenyan homes,” she notes. Highest meat consumers In Kenya, despite tough economic times, a portion of households’ income, especially those in the middle class is set aside to purchase meat. Dr Jane Njuguna from the directorate of veterinary explains that a Kenyan averagely consumes 16 kilogrammes of meat annually. She says 75 per cent of this meat is consumed in Nairobi and Mombasa while the rest of the counties consume the remaining 25 per cent with beef and mutton being the most consumed meat. Dr Victor Yamo, the farming campaigns manager at World Animal Protection (WAP) HIV incidents. The technology needs to check new infections bearing in mind past methods have not yet assisted in achieving targets by Kenya and Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/Aids (UNAIDs) to tame spread and infection. Kiruki said the viginal ring and the injectable PrEP study outcome will be in addition to the oral PrEP technology that has been in use. It is removed after 28 days and controls possible infection. “PrEP at times is beyond the reach of a normal person, says Kiruki adding: “The virginal ring will only be given to young people or adolescent with the consent close family members and care givers.” Executive director of NEPHAK, Nelson Otuoma says while Adolescent Girls and Young Women (AGYW) are extremely vulnerable to HIV transmission, they have also had challenges initiating and continuing oral PrEP use due to a myriad of factors. He lists some of them as stigma, negative reactions from partners or family members, daily pill burden, side effects, and inconvenience. “This technology is convenient for young people bored at taking the pill daily, are stigmatised and in some cases experience side effects,” said Otuoma. He explains the current targets for HIV testing and treatment - the 95-95-95 targets - must be reached by 2025 in order to end AIDS by 2030. “But the target to be achieved is elusive due to several factors,” says Otuoma and fresh technologies will facilitate response to treatment and prevention. Chief executive officer at the National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC), Dr Ruth Laibon Masha said by 2021, there were 1,435,271 people living with HIV. She says new infections were 32,027, while 1,199,101 were on antiretroviral therapy (ART) and number of deaths stood at 19,486. The ring and injectable PreP will be additional new methods in addition to the common oral Prep that the study will also look into, said Millicent. This technology is convenient for young people bored at taking the pill daily, are stigmatised or experience side effects. points out. Kunyanga says there is no standardised recommendation of the amount of meat an individual is supposed to eat per day, because age and gender determines an individual’s amount of meat they should consume and, which is categorised as normal. Even though experts recommend 43 grammes of meat per day, the professor says this varies from person to person. She says, there is need for behavioural change, especially on the meat-lovingKenyans, adding that there is a need to educate them on the right amount of healthy consumption of proteins they require in their bodies. Kunyanga also says for years, meat has been categorised as a sign of economic prosperity, while plant-based proteins, such as beans are foods for poor people. “We need to move away from thinking that meat is a sign of wealth and cereals are for the poor. It is clear that the people we call poor are healthier, because they have embraced these alternative sources of proteins. And that is what people should do,” she notes. To achieve this, she says, scientists are For any Kenyan social media user or consumer of mainstream media, cholesterol is often used when discussing health and wellness, especially while advertising cooking oils and fats. This has led many people to fear cholesterol without understanding what it is and how it affects our bodies. Despite the myth that cholesterol is manufactured and only present in cooking oils and fats, cholesterol is naturally found in our bodies. It is a waxy substance playing a vital role in hormone and vitamin D production and aids in the digestion of fats. Although our bodies need cholesterol for these functions, it is important to observe a healthy balance since high cholesterol levels can result in several health complications. Many people believe there is only bad cholesterol, although that is not true. Instead, there are good and bad proteins hence the need to observe a healthy balance. The “bad” cholesterol, known as low-density lipoprotein (LDL), usually builds up in the arteries resulting in blockages that elevate the risk of heart disease. On the other hand, the “good” cholesterol, highdensity lipoprotein (HDL), usually assists in removing excess “bad” cholesterol from the bloodstream. Therefore, technically only excess amounts of the “bad” cholesterol are bad for the body. Various factors can lead to high cholesterol levels, including lack of regular physical activity, unhealthy diets, obesity, smoking, and genetic makeup. Additionally, a diet of mainly foods with higher saturated and Trans fats, including processed snacks, fried foods, and fatty meats, can raise the levels of “bad” cholesterols in the body. Specifically, when “bad” cholesterol builds up in the arteries, the result is blockages that narrow the blood vessels and interfere with normal blood flow. This can result in severe cardiovascular complications, including stroke and heart strokes. Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels takes a conscious decision to make a lifestyle change, such as eating a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains while limiting the consumption of saturated fats and Trans fats. Others ways, include regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and regular cholesterol screening. IN FIGURES 16 Amount in kilogrammes of meat that the average Kenyan consumes each year. 300,000 Kenya’s meat deficiency in metric tonnes per year 592,858 Amount of beef in tonnes produced in 2020. 1971-2020 Period Kenya’s meat output grew at an average yearly rate of 2.73 per cent. 12% percentage of livestock sector’s contribution to Kenya’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) 70% Percentage of nomad pastoralists in Kenya’s Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs) that keep livestock. 75% Percentage of Kenya’s total meat consumption by Nairobi and Mombasa residents. 92% Percentage of chicken consumed in Kenya followed by beef at 85% and fish coming in third at 79%. HEALTH EFFECTS Meat, dairy products, and eggs all contain cholesterol and saturated fat and contribute to the world’s top killers, such as heart attacks, strokes, diabetes. Meat-eaters are three times more likely to be obese than vegetarians, and nine times more likely than vegans. Cutting down meat consuption can reduce risk of bowel cancer.

24 PEOPLE DAILY / Monday, July 17, 2023

PEOPLE DAILY /Monday, July 17, 2023 25 Scholar Training future leaders by Mwangi Mumero @PeopleDailyKE U niversities and other education institutions in Kenya have to grapple with the emerging issue of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how it can be integrated in learning activities even with its reported threats. Artificial intelligence (AI) is the ability of machines to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence, such as reasoning, learning, decision-making, and creativity. Already, AI applications have been shown to produce human-like output, including summaries, essays, letters, computer programmes, art and more, illustrating how they can affect learning outcomes. Emulate human brain The technology is also currently capable of scoring top marks on major standardised tests, including university entrance examinations and assessments to credential professionals, including doctors and lawyers, according to a report by The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco). One AI app, ChatGPT is estimated to have over 100 million users globally and is the fastest spreading digital application of by Barry Silah @obel_barry The International Baccalaureate (IB), a global leader in international education, is set to revolutionise the learning landscape in Kenya by conducting a comprehensive, multi-year, communitydriven and collaborative review of its programmes targeted at students aged 16 and above. Fidelis Nthenge, Director of Curriculum Development expressed excitement about the review of the curriculum, stating, “We believe that by reviewing and creating a future-oriented curriculum, we are equipping our students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving global job market. The initiative will empower them to be adaptive, innovative, and ethical global citizens ready to contribute to the world around them.” The initiative aims to provide transformative education that empowers the organisation’s diverse community to contribute to a more peaceful and sustainable world while preparing young people to flourish individually, with others and with the shared planet. The IB believes in the importance of a collaborative environment to foster excellence education, and this holistic programme level review will embrace a wider IB community, from students and alumni to educators and staff. The purpose is to make IB programmes, subjects and assessments more flexible, future-oriented and responsive to school and student contexts by placing choice, well-being and real-world relevance at their core continuous evaluation of the curriculum,the IB is set to rethink education and design transformative experiences for students. IB programmes have been offered in the country for over 40 years with a current presence in 11 Kenyan Schools, such as the MPESA Foundation Academy, Aga Khan Academy, the Nairobi Academy among other key schools across the region. IB intends to develop future-ready students by moulding them into critical thinkers, courageous risktakers and empathetic human beings in an environment that prioritises their well-being. To date, renowned personalities and global leaders from a broad range of disciplines have studied in IB schools in Kenya, where IB methodologies have provided them with lifelong opportunities and the sense of purpose they need to thrive throughout their lives and contribute to making the world a better place. IB’s integration of AI into their programmes in Kenya marks a significant milestone in the future of innovative education. By embracing AI technology, IB is reinforcing its commitment to preparing students for the future, fostering critical thinking, personalisation, collaboration, and creativity. Exploring the promise and perils of Artificial Intelligence in schools thing using ICT knowledge,” she shares. Odundo says there are programmes that detect plagiarism on the student’s thesis paper and if its passes a certain level of falsifcation, it is rejected. Experts also observe that AI can help in classroom teaching and assist learners to grasp concepts properly. “A teacher can use AI to develop a lesson plan and this saves a lot of time and enhances human intelligence. AI should help in education transformation,” notes Daniel Juma, executive director Global Peace Foundation. Personalised leraning Researchers also feel that AI can help to address some of these challenges by providing innovative solutions that can enhance the quality, efficiency, and equity of education in Kenya. For instance, AI can enable personalised learning for each student, based on individual needs, preferences, abilities and goals. Using apps, such as chatbots and virtual assistants, learners can interact with students through natural language processing and speech recognition. Learners will be getting answers in voice or other forms, providing feedback and suggestions. The experts say AI can also generate education content that is fitted to learners using text, images, videos, and other multimedia content that match the curriculum standards and learning objectives. But education institutions must first give policy guidance on their use to curb the inherent dangers. “Without institutional guidance of any sort, these technologies are likely to get welded into education systems in unplanned ways with uncertain implications and possible unintended consequences,” observed Tawil. The global body has been advising schools and universities to be proactive about providing guidance, and helping learners and teachers better understand these technologies and the implications of their use. Educational institutions, Tawil says, need an agile and iterative approach, or they will forever be trying to catch up with the relentless pace of technological innovation. Of the institutions surveyed, universities were significantly more likely to have institutional policies or guidance than schools. Approximately 13 percent of the universities reported having some sort of guidance, while only 7 percent of schools did. Education players say the integration of AI into the classroom has the potential to revolutionise the way students learn and teachers teach. However, careful consideration and ethical use is necessary to mitigate challenges all time it is reported to do tasks only the human brain could master. According to a new Unesco global survey of over 450 schools and universities, fewer than 10 per cent have developed institutional policies and formal guidance concerning the use of generative AI applications. “The survey results show that we are still very much in the wilderness when it comes to newly powerful generative AI and education. Institutions are not yet providing guidance or direction,” says Sobhi Tawil, the Unesco director for the future of learning and innovation. In Kenya, issues of knowledgeable AI specialists, worries about data security and privacy, ethical issues, and assuring inclusivity and justice in AI applications are coming to the fore. However, specialists believe the Kenyan information technology skills, as well as the Competence Based Curriculum (CBC) aligns the country to benefit more from emerging technologies, such as AI. Martha Odundo, Deputy Regional Education Director says of the seven core competences in the new curriculum, digital literacy remains a core competence for learners in the 21st century. “Teacher training colleges and students in universities take Information and Communication Technology (ICT) as a must-do subject. Learners have been taught apply everyEmpowering students with future-proof curriculum BRIEFLY A teacher can use AI to develop a lesson plan and this saves a lot of time and enhances human intelligence. -Juma Sobhi Tawil Martha Odundo Daniel Juma Education stands to benefit tremendously from AI. However, some education experts have reservations about including AI in their teaching methods. PD/ COURTESY

PEOPLE DAILY / Monday, July 17, 2023 26 ENTERTAINMENT ARIES (MAR. 21- APRIL 20) You may have to explain your actions to your family. Unpredictable events will disrupt your routine. Take time to make physical improvements that will enhance your appearance. TAURUS (APR. 21- MAY 21) Be sure that you have all the facts before you take action. Don’t let your emotional upset interfere with your professional objectives. GEMINI (MAY 22-JUNE 21) You can pick up some overtime today. Tone down and put some of that hard earned cash into a safe, long-term investment. CANCER (JUNE 22-JULY 22) Do a little shopping. You’re likely to ind a real bargain. You can enjoy doing things that include children. LEO (JULY 23-AUG 22) Don’t say things that could be damaging later on. Cut loose. You will be able to borrow money in order to invest. VIRGO (AUG. 23 -SEPT. 23) Take care of yourself or you can expect to suffer from minor illness. You may want to clear the air where older relatives are concerned. LIBRA (SEPT. 24 -OCT. 23) Your ability to be practical in business will help. You can make changes to your home that will be pleasing to all concerned. Secret affairs will come back to haunt you. SCORPIO (OCT. 24 - NOV. 22) You may want to put everyone to work on a project that will keep them all too busy to complain. SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 23 -DEC. 21) Your determination and sheer desire to do your own thing will be successful. Avoid lovers who already have a relationship, even if it is a bad one. CAPRICORN (DEC 22.- JAN. 20) Avoid extravagance or risky inancial schemes. Work diligently and you will get ahead today. Take a close look at any contracts you’ve signed in order to be sure exactly where you stand. AQUARIUS (JAN. 21 -FEB. 19) You should be able to tie up loose ends today. Sports, physical itness programs, exercise in general will make you feel better and show some pretty quick results. Travel and educational pursuits may help alleviate the stress you have been feeling. PISCES (FEB. 20-MAR. 20) You must use discretion when talking to others. Gambling should not be an option. Your versatile mind and common sense will allow you to come up with various solutions. HOROSCOPES LIFE’S LIKE THAT! | BY TUM Sudoku The aim is to ill the grid so that each row, column and every 3x3 shaded box contains only one of the digits 1-9. You need to reason out where to place the missing numbers by using the numbers given in the grid and a process of elimination. It is a game of logic not mathematical ability. YESTERDAY’S SOLUTION ACROSS 1. Pass by 3. Rwanda 6. Lotion 7. Franco 8. Cabin 10. Voyager 14. Altercation 17. Neatest 19. Pinch 20. Lights 21. Status 22. Romany 23. Shrill DOWN 1. Police 2. Bjorn 4. Worry 5. Aboard 9. Balsa 11. Oval 12. Groan 13. Kris 15. Angler 16. Chisel 18. Elton 19. Patch ACROSS 1. Musical speed (5) 4. Ice-deposits (5) 10. Residence (5) 11. Trade ban (7) 12. Shopkeeper (8) 13. Minus (4) 15. Travelling show (6) 17. Sampled (6) 19. Wordless portrayal (4) 20. Kim ___, US actress (8) 23. Norwich’s county (7) 24. Long seat (5) 25. DIssuade (5) 26. Part of a tree (5) DOWN 2. Explode (5) 3. Valuable (8) 5. Dressing-gown (4) 6. Snake (7) 7. Weak point (11) 8. Irritated (5) 9. In view of (11) 14. Baffle (8) 16. Regret (7) 18. Novel, ___ the Otter (5) 21. Former rugby player, ___ Hastings (5) 22. Flatfish (4) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 5 8 9 6 2 5 8 9 8 6 1 2 1 3 5 4 5 3 9 7 5 6 2 8 9 6 1 6 4 3 9 3 8 2 2 6 7 5 4 1 8 9 3 8 1 4 3 9 2 5 7 6 9 5 3 8 6 7 1 4 2 7 2 6 9 5 3 4 8 1 5 8 1 4 2 6 7 3 9 3 4 9 7 1 8 6 2 5 4 9 2 6 8 5 3 1 7 6 7 8 1 3 9 2 5 4 1 3 5 2 7 4 9 6 8 5:00 France 24 5.05 Maombi 5:30 Gear Up 6:00 Good Morning Kenya 10:00 NewsCheck 1:00 KBC Lunch Time News 2:00 Cynthia Nyamai 2:30 Disco Funk 3:00 Animation 5:00 Club 1 6:30 Drama 7:00 Taarifa 7:30 Maza 8:00 I Dare You To Leave 9:00 KBC Channel 1 News 10:30 The Rave 11:00 CGTN 12:30 France 24 5.00 Password Plus 6.00 Am Live 8.00 Better Living 9.00 On The Wings Of Love 10.00 Music Mix 11.00 NTV Today 1.00 NTV at 1 1.30 Music Mix 3.00 Blood Sisters 3.30 The Three Sides Of Ana - Rpt 4.00 NTV At 4 4.15 Password Plus 5.00 The Heat 6.00 It Had To Be You 7.00 NTV Jioni 8.00 Forever My Love 9.00 NTV Tonight 10.00 Movie 11.00 Music Mix 12.00 CNN 06:00 Your Motor Week 06:30 Command Your Morning 07:00 Afrimaxx 09:00 Tendereza 09:30 News Hour 10:00 Afriscreen 12:00 Amplify 12:30 The killer Bride 1:00 News Desk 1.30 Sports Legends 2:00 Afriscreen 3:30 Akili & Me 4:00 Mbiu Ya KTN 4:10 Winx Club 6:00 Prima Donnas 7:00 KTN Leo 7:30 Sports legends 8:00 Whats your story 9:00 KTN Friday Briefing 10:21 Movie 10:30 Movie 11:00 Baseline 1.00 Aljazeera 4:00 Pambazuka 05:30 PE At Home 06:00 Day Break 09:00 Cartoons Animation 10:00 Music Mix generic 15:00 Afrosinema 11:00 Sema Na Citizen 11:15 Afrosinema 12:15 Afrosinema 13:00 Sema Na Citizen 14:00 Mseto Africa 15:00 The Neighbour 15:54 Supa Sema 16:00 News Brief 16:15 PE At Home 17:30 Rubi 18:30 Machachari 19:00 Nipashe 19:30 Sultana 20:00 Vencer El Desamor 21:00 JK Live 23:05 Mis Fortuna El Marte 00:00 Afrosinema 01:00 News Night KBC KTN CITIZEN NTV 5.00 Ime Ria Ruciini 6.00 Rikiratha- Live 10.00 Kurekereria Kodi- Live 12.00 Ndurumeni Maturaini- Live 1.00 Mohoro Gitau-Live 1.30 Kayu Ka Ruriri- Rpt 2.00 Thiririka 3.00 Kick Off- Rpt 3.30 Magerio- Rpt 4.00 Ririmbuka -Live 6.00 Maisha Bure- Rpt 6.30 Magerio- Rpt 7.00 Kameme Maturaini- Live 7.30 Nditimurano 9.00 Mutamburuko Wa Mohoro- Live 10.00 Thenema 11.30 Ririmbuka 1.30 DW 5.00 Inuka 6.00 New Dawn 8.00 K24 This Morning 9.55 Wisdom Moments 10.00 Inuka- Rpt 11.00 Mchipuko 1.00 K24 News Cut 1.30 Jungu La Spoti 3.00 Aa Pke Aa Jane Se - Repeat 3.00 Ubongo Kids 3.30 Akili & Me 4.00 K24 Mashinani 4.30 Mchipuko Extra 5.00 Beat Box 6.00 Tangled Hearts 7.00 K24 Kikaoni 8.00 Brazil Avenue 8.30 BBC- Focus On Africa 9.00 K24 Evening Edition 10.00 BBC- Dira Ya Dunia 10.30 Rhumba Oxygen- Rpt Timeout Sudoku solutions 10.00PM BBC- DIRA YA DUNIA

Monday, July 17, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY CLASSIFIEDS / NOTICES 27 LET YOUR ADVERT BE SEEN HERE... ... visit us at DSM Place, Ground, 1 st & 2nd Floors, Kijabe Street, Nairobi, Email us on: [email protected] PUBLIC AUCTION INWARD WAVES AUCTIONEERS Auctioneers,Court Bailiff, Repossessors & Private Investigators Kenyattu Annex, Biashara Street, Kiambu, P.O. Box 31714-00600 Nairobi, Cell: 0722 277566, Email:[email protected] e CONDITION OF SALE 1. Cash at the fall of the hammer. 2. Sale subject to a reasonable reserve price. 3. The motor vehicle is offered for sale “as where is basis” Duly instructed by our principals, we shall sell by Public Auction the following Motor Vehicle on Monday July 24th 2023 at 10:30am. The auction will take place at Startruck Storage Yard, Kiambu Road. Make: MISTUBISHI LORRY/TRUCK Registration No: KBY 784B YOM: 2006 Make: ISUZU LORRY/TRUCK Registration No: KCG 995Q YOM: 2008 FORM PLUPA/DC/3 (r.3(3)(xi) THE PHYSICAL AND LAND USE PLANNING ACT (NO. 13 OF 2019) NOTIFICATION OF PROPOSED CHANGE OF USER The owner of the land parcel No. Dagoretti/Kinoo/3018 located at Gaitumbi, Kikuyu sub-county in Kiambu County wishes to change the use of this land from Agricultural use to Residential multi-dwelling use (lat) subject to approval by County Government of Kiambu. any individual, institution or members of the public with comments or objections to this proposal should forward them in writing within fourteen (14) days of this notice to: The County Executive Committee Member Lands, Housing, Physical Planning And Urban Development County Government Of Kiambu P.O. Box 2344 00900 Kiambu Through Registered Planner: Gitonga Kelvin Ritho Reg. No 0270 NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the Usawa kwa Wote Party has Relocated its Head ofice to Muthaiga Suites,Nairobi. The party has also Updated its New Party Symbol. For more information visit our website www.usawakwawote.co.ke Dated at Nairobi this 14th day of July 2023 Nathan Karugu Secretary General Usawa kwa wote Party LICENSED CLASS “B’’ AUCTIONEERS, DEBT COLLECTORS & INVESTIGATIONS Nellea Plaza, Ngara Road, P.O. Box 33812-00600 Nairobi. Tel:(+254) 020-3743744/020- 374345, Mobile: 0722873755/0737873755, Email:[email protected] PUBLIC AUCTION Under Instructions Received from Our Principals the Landlord in the matter of distress for rent Act Cap 293 laws of Kenya . We Shall Sell By Public Auction the underlisted goods on Tuesday 25th July 2023 at 10:00am in our ofices at Nellea Plaza B5 along Ngara Road Nairobi. IN THE MATTER OF DISTRESS FOR RENT CAP 293 LAWS OF KENYA LANDLORD V/S MATILDA ALUOCH Five seater sofasets,One carpet,One cooker Amco 4 burner ,32’’L.G tv. CASH AT THE FALL OF THE HAMMER ALL ARE WELCOME

MIGORI: The promotion to the 2023/2024 Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League has been thrown wide open after Migori Youth held Wazito to a goalless draw in the first leg of the demotion and puffery campaign at the weekend. The match held at the Migori Stadium was a cagey affair from the onset with both sides exercising caution. Both teams created few scoring chances with Wazito hitting the crossbar and Migori Youth forcing a great save from Tom Muthomi. However, in the end, neither side could find the back of the net. The second leg of the playoffs is set to be played at the Muhoroni Stadium on July 22. Should there be a tie on aggregate after the end of regular time in the second leg, the team with the greatest number of away goals shall be declared the winner of the playoff. Additionally, if the teams are tied both on aggregate and on the away goals rule, the match shall proceed to penalties. The winner of the subsequent shootout shall secure a place in next season’s top tier. Wazito will be fighting to maintain their top-tier league status while Migori Youth is seeking a chance to make their inaugural appearance in the FKF-PL. -Charles Thuku FOOTBALL Promotion to top tier open after Migori Youth triumphs by Shadrack Andenga @PeopleSports11 Kenya has embarked on a journey to set up a budget for the country to participate in winter sports. Speaking during the Sports Journalists Association (SJAK) two-day workshop in conjunction with the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) on Friday in Mombasa County, National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) Secretary General Francis Mutuku expressed interest to involve Kenyans in the diaspora. “At the moment we are thinking of our citizens outside the country. I agree that we don’t have the necessary infrastructure here, but we have Kenyans abroad who are participating in winter sports and we need them to come back home and give us glory,” said the Nock Secretary General. Mutuku (pictured) said it takes at least a good ten years of preparations before getting the right human resources ready to compete in global events. Nock is ready to set up specific funds that will be geared towards scouting and recruiting Kenyans abroad to represent the country in winter sports events and also use the same athletes to introduce the same sports in mountainous areas where there is snow and other relevant environmental conditions. Kenyan sports journalists enlisted in the fight against rising cases of doping State loops media in dopes war by Vincent Voiyoh @PeopleSports11 The government has assured close collaboration with sports journalists in the country to strenghthen the ongoing fight against doping among athletes. Speaking during a two-day workshop in Mombasa for the Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK) organised by the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK), Permanent Secretary for Sports Peter Tum emphasised the need for collaboration in order to achieve desired results in anti-doping evangelism. “Journalists play a very critical and important role in giving out factual information about this subject of doping. I am delighted to see such a forum where sports writers are enlightened about the new trends and how to tell the stories,” PS Tum said. The workshop brought together more than 80 journalists from across the country and they were taken through a number of pertinent issues surrounding the entire antidoping war. Some of the key matters that were addressed by Kenya to invest in winter sports, says Mutuku KAKAMEGA: A delayed verdict on an appeal against Musingu High School football team ‘The Scorpions’ has charged up the term two school ball games bonanza of the Western region with just two days to the kick off. The Scorpions stung Kakamega school’s Green Commandos in post-match penalties to win the first semi-final of the Kakamega county boys football championship but Kakamega contested the win citing eligibility of a Musingu player in that match. A ruling on the appeal was expected last Wednesday but the committee headed by the Kakamega County Director of Education Dickson Ogonya remains silent to date, with indications from the committee suggesting members had been coerced to spare Musingu in spite of the incriminating evidence. The Green Commandos team manager Jared Anyira asked the committee to spare the players the agony of winding wait by making public their findings. “It takes quite some resources to build a team. - Douglas Dindi SECONDARY SCHOOL GAMES Controversial appeal ignites tension in Western Region secondary school games ADAK include the submission of the whereabouts of athletes, emerging trends in doping, supplements, and the suspension process of athletes who are found guilty or suspected of any violation. The State agency said the media fraternity and the public should not be surprised if the number of suspensions and bans increase drastically because they are working on more testing. ADAK CEO, Sarah Shibutse, also acknowledged the big role scribes play in educating the general public on combating doping. “This workshop is very key because we all understand the role that the media play in changing out the stories about doping. We want athletes to compete clean and it is the clean athletes that we are protecting. Sports journalists aid in telling these stories on what the anti-doping campaign is all about, why it is wrong for athletes to dope, athlete rights and responsibilities and what they need to do just to understand the whole space of anti-doping,” she said. SJAK President James Wainidi thanked the state parastatal for accepting the call to train members in the end having an open forum to engage for clarifications to spearhead better and informed reporting on the menace. “On behalf of SJAK, I would like to thank ADAK for accepting our call to empower our members on this sensitive matter. I know from this workshop there will be improved reporting directed at helping the fight against doping in the country. We look forward to more collaborations in future”. Waindi noted. About 192 cases have been fully prosecuted to completion and sanctions given to involved athletes. Statistics from ADAK show that male athletes lead in antidoping violations with women only making 35 per cent of the total cases. Meanwhile, KTN News sports reporter Moses Wakhisi has been elected as the new Secretary General for SJAK. Wakhisi, 34, trounced his worthy competitor Isaac Swila of Royal Media Services after garnering 69 votes in the polls. Sports Journalists during the two-day workshop in Mombasa. INSET: Sports PS Peter Tum speaking to the scribes. PD/EMMANUEL MASINDE 28 PEOPLE SPORT FOR MORE NEWS VISIT: www.pd.co.ke / www.epaper. pd.co.ke THE ONE-STOP SPORT SHOP Monday, July 17, 2023

Monday, July 17, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY PEOPLE SPORT 29 by Lucky Oluoch @LuckyOluoch Kenyan athlete Simon Koech, the reigning national champion in the 3,000m steeplechase, is determined to secure his qualification for the World Athletics Championships. After winning the trials last weekend, Koech, the former World Under-20 bronze medallist, will now compete in the upcoming race in Monaco on Friday, July 21. Koech aims to achieve the required time of 8:15.00, which will grant him a spot in Budapest. During the athletics trials held at the Nyayo National Stadium, the speedster displayed remarkable form, finishing ahead of fellow Kenyan athletes Abraham Kibiwott and Leonard Bett with a seasonbest time of 8:22.55. This performance came after his initial victory in the national championship, where he clocked 8:26.00 on June 10. With a personal best of 8:18.43 achieved in 2021, the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) athlete is hopeful that the strong competition in Monaco, including the likes of Soufi ane El Bakkali, Kibiwott, and Getnet Wale, will propel him to meet the qualifi cation mark. Eager to represent his country at the global showpiece scheduled to take place from August 19 to 27, the athlete expressed confidence in his ability to challenge the current status quo and vie for a podium fi nish. He offered: “It is an honour to get this opportunity to represent the country at the senior level. I am confi dent the team selected will challenge the current status quo. This season I elected to race in fewer events as I felt the need to work on my craft, especially crossing the barriers before lining up for any competition and it worked well for me as I have won the last two events.” In the event that Koech fails to meet the qualifying time before the closure of the qualifi cation period on July 30, he can still rely on the World Ranking quota system to secure his place in Team Kenya. It remains uncertain whether Athletics Kenya (AK) will replace athletes who have secured a spot in the team but have not yet achieved the qualifi cation time. Ferguson Rotich and Naomi Korir, who have secured their places in the 800m event, are among the athletes who have yet to meet the qualification standard. Additionally, the men’s 4x400m relay team is hopeful that their high ranking on the top list will grant them an opportunity to compete. As Koech continues his pursuit of qualification, he remains determined and honoured to represent his country on the global stage. With his focused approach and recent successes, he aims to challenge established athletes and make his mark in Budapest. Kenya Defence Forces athlete’s journey from World Under-20 bronze medallist to national champion has now set the stage for his Monaco conquest bid on Friday Koech too eyes Budapest glory Simon Koech leads the pack during the 3,000m steeplechase final during the national trials for the World Athletics Championship held at the Nyayo National Stadium on July 8, 2023. PD/RODGERS NDEGWA by Shadrack Andenga @PeopleSports11 Athletics Kenya (AK) is pleading with athletes countrywide to register with the federation, something that will make their careers fl ourish and make it easy for the federation as they try to keep tabs on all and sundry. Speaking in Mombasa County (at the weekend) during the anti-doping workshop for Kenya’s Sports Journalists, AK’s Charlotte Kurgoy was a sad woman who also added that Kenya is not getting the real value from its athletics prowess based on talents. “We have almost 1500 runners that have not registered with the federation. They compete in small races all over the world, just to hear about them when they get in trouble,” said the head of the anti-doping unit Athletics Kenya adding that it is the sole responsibility and mandate of AK to track and know every athlete participating in their events. Kurgoy bemoaned the massive numbers of road runners and middledistance runners who love to make money in littleknown races globally, only to be heard when they get in trouble with either the securities, agents, visa or ticketing issues. She continued: “It is the responsibility of the athlete to provide his or her whereabouts and make it easier for the federation to track him/her, something that if properly done reduces suspicion and enhances the spirit of fair play.” According to the head of the anti-doping unit at Athletics Kenya, most of the runaway runners are avoiding the random Anti-Doping Association of Kenya (ADAK) doping tests on the verge to make easy money. AK now wants all the relevant athletes that participate in their events to get registered and be known, something that will also bring out the best in them as they can again compete for the national team slots during global events ATHLETICS Athletics Kenya to crack down on unregistered runners ADAK Head of the Anti-Doping Unit Charlotte Kurgoy during the sports journalist’s workshop in Mombasa . PD/EMMANUEL MASINDE Power Parts Limited (CEO) Bharat Soni (L) presents the overall winner award to Krish Patel (R) during the inaugural Kalamar Open Golf Tournament. PD/HARRISON KIVISU by Harrison Kivisu @PeopleSports11 A university student won the inaugural Kalamar open golf tournament played at the Nyali Golf and country club in Mombasa County on Saturday. Krish Patel, who is in the country for a holiday, registered his fi rst victory this year after posting 43 points to be crowned overall winner despite the chilly weather. He beat a total of 180 golfers while playing off handicap 21. The one-day tournament’s overall winner managed to score 20 points on the fi rst nine holes and 23 points on the second nine holes. The men’s category was won by Aameen Dhaji playing off handicap 18 after posting 42 points. He scored 19 points on the fi rst nine holes and 23 points on the second to win the title. The runners-up award went to Sanjay Kotecha after he posted 38 points on countback. Veteran golfer Qamar Naqvi scooped the men’s third award after posting 38 points on countback playing off 14 handicap. Joyce Masai won the ladies’ title after posting 40 points playing off handicap 14 and scoring 17 points on the fi rst nine holes and 23 points on the second nine holes. Speaking during the awarding ceremony Power Parts Limited Chief Executive Offi cer (CEO) Bharat Soni who was fl anked by the newly elected Nyali golf lady captain Mary Mariga and the local company’s board members said he is a golfer and golf is his game and that is why he resolved to give it a priority to sponsor the weekend event. He added that sports is a good marketing place and intends to hold more golf tournaments within the regional circuit. “The company’s next place to hold such a tournament will be the capital city of Nairobi,” he disclosed. The winner lauded the state of the current golf course adding that the weather was in his favour. GOLF University student emerges victorious in sensational Kalamar Open Golf Tournament

30 PEOPLE SPORT PEOPLE DAILY / Monday, July 17, 2023 AUSTRALIA: The head of women’s football for World Cup co-hosts Australia has called for more research into anterior cruciate ligament injuries. Football Australia’s Sarah Walsh says it is a “shame” players, including England duo Leah Williamson and Beth Mead, will miss this month’s tournament with the serious knee injury. She blames a “hundred years of underinvestment” in research. “For a long time, women have been treated like little men,” she said. “There is a real lack of research. The entire highperformance environment is built around men - designed by men for men.” Netherlands striker Vivianne Miedema - an Arsenal team-mate of Williamson and Mead - suffered an ACL injury in December and will also miss the Women’s Women Cup, which will take place in Australia and New Zealand from 20 July to 20 August. Walsh, 40, suffered serious knee injuries during her own playing career, which included 70 caps for Australia. “I would have loved to have known if my menstrual cycle had contributed to any one of my knee reconstructions.” -BBC INSIDE SPORT SJAK PAGE 28 Sports journalists in Kenya enlisted in war against doping ATHLETICS PAGE 29 Koech’s journey from World Under-20 bronze medallist to national champion sets the stage for his Monaco quest 3-1 RIVER PLATE Beltran L. 2’ de la Cruz N. 18’ Barco E. 31’ (Pen) Liga Profesional - Round 25 ESTUDIANTES L.P. Mendez M. 67’ ENGLAND: England vicecaptain Ollie Pope says he almost fell asleep waiting to bat in the second Ashes Test at Lord’s because the painkillers he took for his shoulder injury were so strong. Pope, 25, dislocated his right shoulder in the field, but defied the injury to make 42 and three with the bat. He was named in the squad for the third Test at Headingley, but was then ruled out for the rest of the summer. “It was sore, I was on heavy painkillers,” Pope told The Telegraph. “I was falling asleep waiting to bat because the painkillers were so strong. That was kind of annoying. “Once I got into the innings it was OK. There were shots which jarred it. I didn’t want to carry on on the pitch because you know what the Aussies are like, I didn’t want to have a target on my back.” Pope was made to field in Australia’s second innings, with the officials deciding he was fit to do so having batted. -BBC AMERICA: Alycia Baumgardner called out three other undisputed champions in Katie Taylor, Amanda Serrano and Chantelle Cameron after retaining her superfeatherweight titles on Saturday night. The American, 29, beat Greece’s Christina Linardatou, 35, on points by unanimous decision in Detroit. She avenged her only defeat, against Linardatou via split decision in 2018. “Katie Taylor I want you; Chantelle Cameron, Amanda Serrano,” Baumgardner said when asked what was next. Baumgardner took her record to 15 wins from 16 fights after scoring heavily in the opening rounds before hanging on for victory against Linardatou. She avenged her only defeat, against Linardatou via split decision in 2018. “Katie Taylor I want you; Chantelle Cameron, Amanda Serrano,” Baumgardner said when asked what was next. Baumgardner took her record to 15 wins from 16 fights after scoring heavily in the opening rounds before hanging on for victory against Linardatou. -BBC CRICKET England’s Ollie Pope says he almost fell asleep on painkillers at Lord’s BOXING Baumgardner calls out three undisputed champions WOMEN’S FOOTBALL Football Australia head calls for more research into ACL injuries Angela’s pair on the prowl Angela Okutoyi during a past event. PHOTO/ COURTESY by Barry Silah @obel_barry Kenyan tennis sensation Angela Okutoyi proved her mettle again at the weekend when she grabbed the doubles title alongside her French parner Beverly Nyangom at the International Tennis Federation (ITF) Women’s World Tennis Tour W15 in Monastir, Tunisia. The duo beat Italian opponents Gaia Parravicini and Samira De Stefano in a tie-break score (6-4/3-6/10-2). The titanic battle played at the Magic Hotel Skanes Family Club saw both pairs across the net slug it out in front of an excited crowd. It was fairly balanced in terms of approach and points aggregation in the opening two sets. Okutoyi and Nyangom started off the blocks bright and aggressive as they took the fight to the challengers. Okutoyi’s service game coupled with Nyangom’s return felt solid and troubled the Italians. Their net play also proved effective as they pushed the challengers towards the baseline. Okutoyi had the winning mindset buoyed by her recent phenomenal run in the World Tennis Tour Event in Nairobi where she helped Team Kenya finish third overall. The 19-year-old holder of the 2022 Wimbledon Doubles gong came to the party with good strokes and hits when the opportunity arose as she constantly attacked the net with venom backed by her equally explosive partner. In the second set, the tide changed a bit albeit with the Italians taking over the cue and bringing their best game yet. Okutoyi and Nyangom were often found on the ropes while at the same time making a couple of unforced errors that put paid to their grit. While getting three games off their opponents, the Italians were more effective to close out danger and racing to the finish line leaving a decider on the cards. However, on the business end, the Kenyan/French connection showed remarkable character, chemistry and commitment as they unleashed some good balls on the opponents’ territory. Buoyed by the crowd, Okutoyi and Nyangom came alive with breathtaking tennis that kept the challengers off balance. This tournament on its own accord was a good booster for the Kenyan who is expected to have a rise in her rankings. Incidentally, there was some luck for Okutoyi and Nyangom in the lead-up to the finals after their USA/Spanish opponents Raquel Gonzalez and Sofia Camila Rojas unceremoniously retired in the semi-finals. This left a cruise for the KenyanFrench duo who then had enough time to prepare for the main event while also studying the other semis. Italians put up fierce fight, but Okutoyi and Nyangom prevail in doubles showdown

Monday, July 17, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY PEOPLE SPORT 31 by Vincent Voiyoh and Charles Thuku @PeopleSports11 Former Harambee Stars midfielder, Titus Mulama, is optimistic of Harambee Stars’ chances in the upcoming CAF 2022 FIFA World Cup Qualifi ers to commence in mid-November, suggesting they could emerge as one of the tournament’s surprise packages. On July 13, Kenya was pooled together with two-time African Champions Ivory Coast who are tipped by many football followers to be clear favourites in Group F. Other teams in the group include Pierre Emerick Aubemeyang’s Gabon, Gambia, Seychelles and regional neighbours Burundi. Save for Burundi, Seychelles and Gabon. Kenya has never played the Ivorians who are above them in the FIFA rankings and who are considered red-hot contenders in the qualifying campaign. Kenya were in Pot 3 of the draw held in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire on July 13. The fi rst match of the two-legged qualifi ers will be played between November 13 and 21 this year. The winners of each group will directly qualify for the tournament. Additionally, the four best runners-up from the groups will advance to the CAF Play-Off tournament, whose winners hall secure a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Mulama who made more than 71 appearances for Kenya maintains that Kenya can pull off some big performances, especially against countries that are considered to be above them on FIFA rankings. “It is a draw that can favour us, it is a group that we can manoeuvre in because I know when Kenya is pooled against big and strong teams like Ivory Coast we tend to raise our game or our standards and get desired results. You remember sometime back we were close to beating Nigeria in Calabar. It’s just a matter of putting our house in order before the kick-off of the qualifi ers,” Mulama told People Sport. Among the teams in Kenya’s Group F, only Ivory Coast have been able to feature in a FIFA World Cup and that was in Germany 2006, South Africa 2010 and Brazil 2014 hence being considered outright to lead the standings at the end of the qualifi cation campaign. However, Mulama is of the opinion that Harambee Stars should be troubled or worried about Ivory Coast which is ranked 51st globally. Instead, the former winger says Kenya should focus more on the teams that are being regarded as minnows in the Group. “Every year in any qualifi ers we have seen some surprises. Small football countries shocking big wigs. In my opinion, I don’t think our focus should be on Ivory Coast - although they are favorites.” by KRU @PeopleSports11 Scotland, Samoa, Uruguay and Spain emerged victorious from the opening day of the World Rugby U20 Trophy 2023 at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi, Kenya, on Saturday. In a classic game of two halves, Scotland ran out 64-33 winners over Zimbabwe in the opening game of the tournament, but a fi ve-try secondhalf burst from the Junior Sables ensured it wasn’t all plain sailing for the Scots. Samoa, too, did not have things all their own way against hosts Kenya in the fi rst Pool B match, but two quick tries from captain John Mata Samuelu and a double from winger William Hunt ensured the former champions opened their 2023 challenge with a 34-25 win. The third match was a much cagier affair, with Uruguay edging the battle of the former champions against USA 33-31, thanks to a late try from Dante Soto and the accurate boot of Juan Carlos Canessa. Spain then wrapped up the opening day’s action with a 53-0 defeat of Hong Kong China with Eloy de la Pisa Cuadrado and Gabriel Rocaries both dotting down twice to take Los Leones U20 to the top of Pool B. The action continues on Thursday, 20 July when the Pool B match between Samoa and Hong Kong China will open proceedings at 10:00 local time (GMT +2). Uruguay then take on Zimbabwe at 12:00 before the other Pool A match between Scotland at USA at 14:00. Spain and hosts Kenya play in the fi nal match of round two at 16:00. Two quick tries from captain John Mata Samuelu and a double from winger William Hunt ensured former U20 Trophy champions Samoa opened their 2023 challenge with a win to maintain their near-perfect record in the tournament. Heading into their opening match in Nairobi, they had won 11 of 12 matches they had played in the second-tier U20 competition – their only defeat coming in the 2018 fi nal. But they didn’t have things all their own way. Indiscipline cost them, while hosts Kenya sent a clear warning to their Pool B rivals as they troubled the larger Samoan squad with their pace and elusive run- Ivory Coast leads Group ning. F but Mulama calls on national team to pay more attention to the underdogs by Dennis Mabuka @PeopleSports11 Kenya’s Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat believes they don’t have any guarantee to make it to the 2026 World Cup fi nals to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico after learning of the draw conducted on Thursday in Ivory Coast. Speaking on Kenya’s chances to qualify for their fi rst-ever World Cup tournament in history, the 53-year-old Turkish tactician said unless Football Kenya Federation (FKF) offi ce led by President Nick Mwendwa devotes seriousness to the team’s preparations by laying down a proper organisation plan, then Kenya will stand no chance to qualify. “I have seen the draw, it is an open group which if we plan well then we can create something out of it but our chances are very little,” Firat (pictured) said, adding: “The focus should be on our organization, are we prepared to plan properly and get the best out of the players? Are we ready to sort out our fi nancial problems? “These are small details that must be addressed going into the qualifi ers otherwise Kenya are not favourites, but what we will strive to do (during the qualifi ers) is make history by reaching the fi nals for the fi rst time. We will make sure we try our best, but I don’t want to guarantee anything for now, let us wait and see how we start preparations for the qualifi ers and thereafter, I can predict what is in store for us.” Meanwhile, former Gor Mahia CEO Omondi Aduda echoed Firat’s statement by saying Kenya’s chances of qualifying from the group will depend on how the team will prepare for the qualifi ers. “It is a tough group if you ask me and I see Ivory Coast as the favourites for the direct ticket, so it means as Kenya we are already chasing from behind,” Aduda told People Sport, adding: “Without proper preparations then we should count ourselves failures even before we play because this is not time for jokes, FKF and the government must come together to make sure the team gets adequate training for the qualifi ers.” The fi rst match of the two-legged qualifi ers will be played between November 13 and 21 with the winners of each group directly qualifying for the tournament. Kenya walks rough road to World Cup as coach Firat sounds caution Scotland, Spain top pools after day one of U20 trophy encounter Harambee Stars during a past training session. PHOTO/COURTESY Kenya U20 winger Raphael Wanga under a tackle while his flyhalf Davies Spencer looks forward to support him. PD/ALEX NJUE Mulama vouches for Stars surprise

Monday, July 17, 2023 / / / @PeopleDailyKe / / / People Daily People Daily is published by Mediamax Network Limited at DSM Place, Kijabe Street, P.O. Box 24943, 00100 - Nairobi, Tel: 0730144100; 0709824000; 0204944100 Fax: 2228503 Nairobi and printed at our Printing Division on Mombasa Road, Tel: 04522641. Circulation: Union Towers, 1st Floor, Moi Avenue. Tel: 2519168. Advertising 2227693, 2228493. E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected] Copyright 2023. All rights reserved. by Dennis Mabuka @PeopleSports11 FKF Premier League outfi t Kakamega Homeboyz have set a price tag of Sh6 million for any team willing to acquire the services of striker Moses Shummah. On Friday, reports emerged through social media that league champions Gor Mahia were keen to sign the towering striker, who enjoyed a superb show last season with Abana Baingo that culminated with the Western-based side lifting their fi rst-ever major silverware – Mozzart Bet FKF Cup – after edging out Tusker 1-0 in the fi nal at the Nyayo Stadium. When asked to respond to the Gor Mahia reports, Homeboyz chairman Cleophas Shimanyula exclusively told People Sport that he will not stand in the way of Shummah if he wants to leave but warned any suitors, including K’Ogalo to be prepared to cough with Sh6m as transfer fee before getting his signature. “I always like to see players enjoying doing what they want and have peace of their mind. If indeed Shummah wants to leave Homeboyz the door is wide open (for him to go), I will not stand in his way but the only problem is who will be able to pay Sh6m for his services?” Shimanyula told People Sport. “If Gor Mahia are seriously interested, then ask them to come with that Ksh6m, otherwise they should stop daydreaming and focus on the players they already have,” he added. Shimanyula further outlined tough conditions that should be met including channeling the transfer fee in full direct to Homeboyz’ bank account before both parties can commence negotiations. “We don’t want to receive the money in Bristol hold talks with Welsh Union to host clash with Gloucester at Principality Stadium RUGBY: Bristol Bears are in “advanced negotiations” with the Welsh Rugby Union to host their Gallagher Premiership game with Gloucester in the upcoming season at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium. The Ashton Gate outfit are thinking outside the box in a bid to attract the largest possible number of fans to their matches as English rugby’s biggest domestic league battles ongoing financial uncertainty. Earlier this year, the Premiership saw three of its teams in Worcester, Wasps and London Irish fall out of existence, meaning the division will drop from 13 sides to 10 for the 2023/24 campaign. The subsequent fixture shortfall will mean an automatic drop in matchday revenue for all outfits which is why new options are being considered. Bristol have already confirmed innovative matches with the Barbarians and New Zealand’s Super Rugby giants Crusaders for the season to come. -Daily Mail BOXING Oleksandr Usyk has accused Tyson Fury of being “afraid” of him after the Brit agreed to fight ex-UFC fighter Francis Ngannou. Rather than fighting a world-level boxer in his next bout, Fury will instead face former UFC heavyweight champion Ngannou on October 28 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia under Marquess of Queensbury boxing rules. The fight has not been received well by fans, who were hoping to see Fury square off against Oleksandr Usyk next. Usyk defends his unified heavyweight titles against WBA mandatory Daniel Dubois on August 26 in Wroclaw, Poland. After which, it was expected that Usyk and Fury would go toe-to-toe in December. The Gypsy King has thrown a spanner into the woks by agreeing to fight Ngannou as late as October, which has left his Ukrainian rival unimpressed. “The guy is going to earn some decent money,” Usyk told Sky Sports. “For Francis Ngannou, this is a great opportunity, but for Tyson Fury, it’s definitely not. Doesn’t it seem strange that instead of choosing a top-10 guy, he is choosing someone who has never boxed before?” When asked if he felt Fury was scared of facing him in a title unification fight, Usyk replied: “Yes, of course! Of course.” -Daily Mail ‘Afraid’ Tyson Fury’s next bout to be against Francis Ngannou in October Cleophas Shimanyula, Kakamega Homeboyz‘s chairman sets tough conditions for Moses Shummah’s potential transfer Money talks Download QR Code app on Google Play and scan this QR code with your smart phone for pictures, videos and more stories Moses Shummah of Kakamega Homeboyz (R) shoots past Charles Momanyi and Thomas Teka of Tusker FC during the finals of the Mozzart Bet Cup finals held at the Kasarani Stadium. PD/RODGERS NDEGWA EXCLUSIVE cash or bits – any serious suitors should pay the amount through the bank, and in full. Even before they embark on the journey to Kakamega to start negotiations, it is that simple, and without prior payments again it will be diffi cult to sign the player,” added the tough-talking Shimanyula. However, Shimanyula said Homeboyz have so far not received any offers or inquiries from any team in Kenya or outside the country seeking to sign the youngster, who won two MVP trophies, one during the semis of the FKF Cup and the other in the fi nal, and wondered whether Gor Mahia have enough money in their coffers to get his services. “Can Gor Mahia afford Sh6m for Shummah?” Shimanyula posed a question, adding: “I don’t think they have the money (unless they convene an urgent funds drive and maybe they cannot reach the target), they have been struggling to pay their players’ salaries and allowances including the technical bench, what makes you think they can afford Shummah? As Homeboyz, no club has approached us for Shummah’s services, and the player has not approached me nor any member of the technical bench asking to leave, so Shummah remains our player for now. We are also taking part in continental football and it will be good if we keep our players intact because continuity will play a big role as we start our journey in CAF Confederation Cup.” Apart from the MVP awards, the 20-year-old Shummah scored six goals in the Premier League and one in the FKF Cup. He also earned his fi rst call-up to the national team Harambee Stars, was handed his debut by coach Engin Firat and scored in the 1-0 friendly victory against Pakistan during a Four-Nation tournament in Mauritius in June.