MNN

Bindu Bichenjanga by Amos Barasa: The Making of a Hit! Video, The Politics, Hidden Symbolism & Powerful Message

2017-06-20T05:23:00.002-07:00

Bindu Bichenjanga is contemporary Bukusu pop music song by Amos Barasa. Amos- a young man probably not yet thirty- represents this breed of new age musicians comfortable singing in vernacular. A talented generation of Luhya entertainers who like their peers in Kapuka (AfroPop if you like) are brave in their sound. Revolutionizing traditional vernacular music with hip hop, house, calypso and even Rhumba .

Amos Barasa in scene from the Bindu Bichenjanga video. Image: YouTube/Godricks/Amos Barasa

Going by his 'swahili-nised' Lubukusu, Amos, who's said to have begun his signing career in high school, must hail from Kimilli, Kamukuywa or Tongaren thereabouts. Anywhere where the W'Amutala -the speakers of this dialect of Lubukusu- hail from. Thanks to this accident of nature, unlike Steve Kay who in "Mbe' Omukhasi", had to layer Swahili and English to increase the crossover appeal of his run away hit, Bindu Bichenjanga, Barasa's native way of speaking does the crossover work for him.

Bindu Bichenjanga: The Magic of the Crossover Hit

Over 100K views on YouTube for a Kenyan song published on 13th January of 2017 is no mean feat. That's a mega hit!

How did a song sang entirely in vernacular manage to entice and enchant a nation of 43 tribes replete with hundreds of dialects?

Now, the differences between Luhya dialects are often exaggerated. Truth is, any Luhya who knows his mother tongue well, will understand his Mulembe brother. Nonetheless, it cannot be under estimated how Amos Barasa's manner of speaking Lubukusu- akin to Gideon Moi's delivery of Kalenjin- propelled "Bindu Bichenjanga" to mass appeal across and beyond Mulembe Nation.

At the go, "Bindu Bichenjanga" hits the listener with a burst of an expertly strung, excellently strummed Litungu. The star instrument quintessential to Bukusu music is part of a cast of musical instruments consisting of a drum improvised from a used 20 liter jerrican drum (at least during public performances) .

Amos Barasa performing Bindu Bichenjanga live in Kitale. Barasa tickles the Litungu while a band member cajoles the improvised drum. Image|YouTube/Godricks/Amos Barasa

Wait a minute! Did someone say Sifwototo too? Sifwototo as in the a flute like sound produced when air is blown through the space between the approximated thumb fingers when one claps their hands together creating some sort of chamber? The sound whose pitch is varied by alternate rhythmic finger movements much like the manner in which one plays a wind instrument?

Well, I'm not certain about the Sifwototo, but that characteristic high tone punctuates the full length of "Bindu Bichenjanga";serving to stir the nostalgia of Bukusu music gone by.

"Bindu Bichenjanga"! A song of the people- Amos Barasa & Steve Kay Compared

First, this isn't unwarranted pitting of amwavo against each other. A fight between the fans of our brothers is contrary to the spirit of MNN. This comparison exercise is done so as to decipher the matter at hand. A good pop song is an annotation of the time. In fact, as betrayed by the nomenclature, the word 'pop' denotes the here and now.

Therefore, as we had reviewed and characterized Steve Kay's "Mbe Omukhasi" as a annotation of the evolution of love and marriage customs among the Luhya; for its sheer popularity, "Bindu Bichenjanga" demands the same. More so because many have erroneously taken "Bindu Bichenjanga's" popularity to stem from it being a political song.

Far from it. To aid our digest of these Bukusu pop music hits, consider the two songs as potential dates. Lets call them Selina and Serah.

Bindu Bichenjanga & Mbe Omukhasi Dating Analogy

Sarah is young attractive. Raised and schooled in peri-urban settings. She is a no frills down for whatever type of girl. Sarah finds the perennially crowded Pirates beach in Mombasa much more fun than the lonely white sands of Kwale county. To get there, for Sarah, a trip on the SGR would be such an adventure. For Christmas, all Sarah wants is a goat to slaughter and the uneasy laughter of family at shags.

Selina ( also young attractive) considers herself a city girl. She has been to Mombasa and hates Pirates beach. She says that public beaches doesn't allow for sufficient lovey-dovey time. Adventure for her is Diani by air. Snorkeling at Kisite-Mpunguti National reserve and Wine tasting is her preferred Christmas.

Pose for a moment and consider who you'd date. Consider also who you'd marry. While the answers to these two questions are sure to varied, the answer to who of Selina or Serah matches the profile of the many people you know is less volatile.

"Bindu Bichenjanga" aka Sarah in our analogy, is the people's song, annotating our lived experiences. It's Riverwood style only serves to fortify this perception. Conversely, "Mbe Omukhasi", aka Selina annotates our aspiration as a people.

In this regard, "Bindu Bichenjanga" is you and me. Here and now together with our kin and kindred. "Mbe Omukhasi" is other hand is tomorrow. Our dreams of tomorrow are intimate and personal. Not even a mother knows the in and outs of his child's dreams neither does a husband know the secrets of his wife's desires.

To Nafula, Muhonja, Wanjiku, Chebet, Akati and Wandera; from this standpoint (the future and the now) it's easy to see why "Bindu Bichenjanga" pips "Mbe Omukhasi". But there is a reason for this.

Steve Kay & Amos Barasa are at different stages of their careers

You have to admire the courage of Steve Kay in "Mbe Omukhasi". Here, Steve tries to elevate Luhya vernacular pop music across the borders. His audacity in showing us tomorrow is nothing short of admirable. He is at that stage of his career where he has to elevate his brand and become an ambassador, sort of, of the Mulembe Nation.

Similarly, Amos Barasa stakes his claim as co-ambasador by remaining true to a maxim of Mulembe Nation's worldview: Simplicity is treasured among the luhya.His simplicity appears to be circumstantial. Amos is not a brand as big as Steve Kay. But by keeping it simple, Amos Barasa quickly touches base with his core fan base before going for the hearts of Kenyans as simplicity is a prerequisite for magnificence.

Jubilee government's missed opportunity with "Bindu Bichenjanga" & the cultural symbolism of the video

First, "Bindu Bichenjanga" is a simple sing along familiar tune that fits perfectly into political rhetoric. Kind of in the manner the late Otieno Kajwang' with "Bado Mapambano". Secondly, Bindu Bichenjanga is a jubilee government scorecard. Sort of actually but it's easy to see how a master crowd mover like Kubende can mould it if he put his mind to it.

"Bindu Bichenjanga" highlights successful government projects. The message is clear and precise fronting contemporary themes like; devolution, accountability, youth leadership, digital migration, digital learning program etc.

Amos takes us through the journey of Kenya's transformation in the last 5 years from analogue to digital transmission of information and digitization of education. At some point in the video, probably a symbolism of renewal, the viewer sees analogue television sets getting washed away in a swollen river. This being an election that's heavy on bibilical inferences, we've got to consider the symbolism here.

The strong message of change in "Bindu Bichenjanga" is fortified by symbolism in the music video

References to Bukusu culture in the video

Amos Barasa subtly incorporated Bukusu culture in making of the video to the song. On many occasions he sings/dances by a water fall, river bed and even right in the middle of the river. Among the Bukusu, the river is a holy and sanctified place. Alms and offerings are presented to the gods here and water was seen as a cleansing agent. The flow of the river, together with this cultural reference to cleansing reaffirms the song's key theme: Change.

Bindu Bichenjanga's powerful social message of humility and love

A message of love, humility, hope and economic empowerment- dare I say of Mulembe- dominates "Bindu Bichenjanaga". Amos Barasa urges the endowed and powerful in society to help and serve the poor. The choice of the word Bamanani translated as the poorest of the poor is deliberate.

This is the same powerful message that Amos passes on to leaders who promise heaven when looking for votes then fail to deliver. Barasa urges listeners love one another and asks the people of Mulembe to carry themselves with humility in order to prosper.

Being a Bukusu proper, Amos doesn't fail to end the song by sending greetings recognizing his family, politicians and academicians.

Listening to Bindu Bichenjaga makes one want to rise from his seat and shake a leg. This one is sure to make one hit the dance floor leaving their drink unattended from beginning to the end.

Overall rating the song gets 9/10.

Bukusu Naming Traditions: A Synopsis

2017-06-16T08:52:00.001-07:00

Having many children is considered a blessing, and childlessness (Bukumba) among the Bukusu-like many African cultures is taken as a great misfortune. Traditionally, many births took place at home by self or assisted by co-wives, mother, sisters, mother-in-laws or even the pregnant woman's relatives if she had chosen to go give birth at her maiden home.

The placenta (engobi) and the umbilical cord (lulela) were buried at a secret spot so that they aren't found and tampered with by a witches (omulosi).

Naming Customs among the Bukusu:

After delivery, a child was given a name or names depending on a number of factors. Today, following christian and modern norms, names can be derived from foreign customs such as Arabic, English, French, Dutch or Portuguese.

However, even today, Bukusu children have be given African names as per tradition. As a result, the 21st century Bukusu will have three names; Christian/Muslim name; a maiden name and then a family name in that order.

The family name is almost strictly paternal unlike the mixed system among Spanish naming systems where paternal and maternal surnames are combined sequentially. Moreover, unlike in some ancient Asian traditions- South Koreans in particular-the surname does not denote status. It is simply the name of your father. This article reveals the intricacies, charm and traditions of how the Bukusu gave middle names to children. Several factors influence names given to children. These may include;

Bukusu naming traditions: According to Time & Place

Day of the week of the birth. Males born on Mondays could be named Barasa while those born on Saturdays would be named Nyongesa.
The time of day (dawn, morning, dusk, afternoon, evening, night). For example male children born late in the night would be named Wabwile and Nabwile for the females.
Season of the year (famine, rainy season) Males born during the dry season will be named Simiyu, those born in the rainy season will be Wafula.
Location a person is born children born by the roadside would be named Wangila, those born on the veranda would be named Namukuru.
Babies born during circumcision period would be named Namwenya if female, males would be named Mukhebi.

Bukusu naming traditions: According to community events.

Economic activity of the day (planting season, harvesting) Male children born during planting season would be named Wanyonyi and Naliaka for females while those in the harvesting season would be named Wekesa.
Contemporary nature of the times:- Children born during merry making times would be named Wamalwa or Wanyama. These are commonly born in August of a leap year or December during Christmas celebrations.
Children born after death of someone significant in the community would be named after the person. They would also be named Masika.

Bukusu naming traditions: According to circumstances surrounding pregnancy & delivery

Children whose mothers could not remember their last monthly periods would be named Okumu.
Female children born past the normal pregnancy gestation period would be named Nasiebanda, or Mwibanda for males
Normally a child is born in breech (any other presenting part- legs, buttocks- save for the head), is given a special name. A boy is named Sifuna while a girl Nafuna.
Specific circumstances relating to the child and to the child’s family. For example very small babies would be named Nangekhe. These would boarder small for gestation age
Female children born before completing normal gestation would be named Nambuswa
If one's parents suffer or suffered from child or infant mortality, one is likely to have a funny, survival or death-prevention name believed to be capable of preventing and/or eliminating totally such deaths since it has the power of preventing parents in the underworld from causing the death of such children. Males would be named Wenani, Wepukhulu, Makokha, Kundu, Kuloba, Namunyu etc. Females on the other hand would be named Nabangala, Nang’unda, etc.
Twins were named in more special way. For example the first one to come out was named Mukhwana who is followed by Mulongo. After the birth of twins a ceremony known as khukhwikula bukhwana is done.
Children could also be named depending on the availability of special foods like those born during the mushroom season would be named Wabwoba. Their counterparts born during the termite season would be named Waswa.
A girl born among boys would be named Nasio meaning single.
Girls born with fair skin/beautiful that the rest of the siblings would be named Khakasa.

Bukusu naming traditions: The influence of family ties

Babies could also inherit names of their ancestors. These would vary from one clan to the next. Example names like Makila, Makanda, Mukisu, Wakoli, Bifwoli are related to the bayemba clan in one way or the other. Not everyone got a chance to be named after. Men and women of honor were immortalized by naming children after them. Certain people could not be named after example those who committed suicide, those who didn’t bear any children.
Order of birth; children born after twins also had special names; Khamala was born immediately after twins and Khisa born after Khamala.
Special cases where a couple got a second set of twins would be named Khisa and Khamala. If they got a third set of twins they would be named Khonokha and Nabangi.
Children born after the death of their parents would be named Namulekhwa or Walekhwa, Taabu etc. Translating to those who were left and problems respectively.

Sources: Makokha, Mangobe my village elder (not the Omukasa but the wise one whose only task today is passing on Bukusu culture via oral tradition)

Kutalang`i By Wanjala wa Mandari & The Untold Story of Micheal Kijana Wamalwa & Musikari Kombo: A review

2017-06-09T13:39:00.000-07:00

"Kutalang`i" is a Bukusu song that's closer to Wasike W'Musungu roots than the modern Bukusu pop sounds of Steve Kay. It was done by Wanjala Okumu and Wanjala W`Mandari and released in 2008.

Kutalang`i is Bukusu for the Lion King.

Male lion (Kutalang`i)

Lions are symbols of strength and courage and have been celebrated throughout history for these characteristics. From the Kenyan court of arms to Rastafarian reference of Haile Selassie, even in modern times, the full mane lion is a common symbol for royalty and stateliness; hence the phrase 'king of the jungle'.

I suspect Ford Kenya chose the Lion for its party symbol with this in mind. The stimulating yet frightening "Kutalang'i" begins by harping on the familiar with the characteristic Bukusu music staccato rhythm of Litungu and Chisasi in uncomfortable harmony.

Before we delve into the majesty of "Kutalang'i", some house keeping issues first. To prime you for this musical journey, we will walk you through some incredibly interesting aspects of Bukusu speak and culture. Think of this little detour as a necessary inconvenience. Like washing your hands before dinning with elders.

"Kutalang'i" for the Non-Lubukusu speaker

First off we illuminate some aspects of Bukusu culture on showcase in the visual composition of the song. A good music video ought cajole a song and seduce the viewer, riveting them to the body of the song; taking them to that place of beauty and clarity in the composers being as they wrote the song. A good music video ought sing to the deaf and communicate to those uninitiated in its language of expression.

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"Kutalang'i" The Music Video

In the video done in flyby Riverwood style, the viewer is ushered in by extravagantly adorned dancers in traditional Bukusu regalia like Likutu, Ekutwa, Kumukhinga kwe mboko, biyula and Bichenje.

The music video set exalts reincarnations of Bukusu shrines: The river bank where the Bukusu's traditionally offered sacrifices to Wele Khakaba , their fore fathers and their ancestors. " Kutalang'i" the music video, shakes off the reek of a low budget Riverwood production to deliver a lethal punch of extravagant display of the rich Bukusu culture.

The video treats us to a 'sumptuous meal" of Kamabeka kamasisimula from the agile dancers. To pull of this kind of dance requires God endowed skill and talent. If I was to count the number of people who still pull off Kamabeka kamasisimula effortlessly,I will not count beyond the digits of one hand. These are Bakhone babewana Baala from Kabula, Kisondio of Sulwe FM, Kuka Dan of Webuye East, nende Takitari Omukikayi Namaswa. Dr. Bonnie Khalwale the Eunwa ya Ikolomani gives it a good shot but he dare not share a stage with these masters.

101 Guide to "Kutalang'i" Bukusu Speak

In one of the spare instances where Bukusu tradition deviates from patriarchy, Bukusu male persons in a somewhat half Spanish tradition do identify themselves by their mothers' maiden name. For example, Masinde Muliro whose mother is Makinia, becomes Muliro W'Makinia. Askari Kombo son of Nasipwondi becomes Kombo W'Nasipwondi or simply W'Nasipwondi.

The W`Mandari in "Kutalang'i" not infrequently utilize this style thus identifying with their target audience. Moreover, they also adopt the cultural way of referring to persons by their clan. For instance, Micheal Kijana Wamalwa goes by his clan name Omuengele: Omuengele Katulang'i . Meaning (the) Omuengele (who is a) Lion. The other thing about Bukusu clans? As Boniface Munialo explains bukusu clans were known by their unique characteristics. For instance, the children of an Omulako man would be named as Balako (ironmongers), or meat lovers (Bakhayama) or potters (Baumba) and so on. Today, its not uncommon for a Bukusu to introduce themselves via these characteristics. For instance a Omuyemba might say: "ese Omuyemba mukhayama, Mukangu, Mulomi." Meaning that "I am Omuyemba, the meat lover, tall and talkative ."

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"Kutalang'i": The song, the roller-coaster of emotions.

Now that we you are now on board, lets relish Wanjala W'Mandari's "Kutalang'i". Given that the song seeks to immortalize the passing on of Kutalang'i -Micheal Kijana Wamalwa; it had to deliver. And deliver it did. So much so it reminded me of what must be the most riveting, heart wrenching 3 minutes that have ever come out of Hollywood. I talk of the death of Musafa the first Lion King in Disney's critically acclaimed animation : Lion King

This is the scene that made Lion King, the second most grossing movie of all time. In 2016, Lion King was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress as being "culturally, historically or aesthetically significant".

By my mother's navel! I earnestly pray that whoever wins the battle of Chiunwa and becomes the next governor of Bungoma will rather spend our money doing such things. Archiving and preserving Mulembe culture for our children's prosperity and not wheelbarrows, ghost 'diaries' or chopper rides. I digress.

"Kutalang'i" immortalizes the 'Mufasa' moment for Bukusu community and at large the people of Mulembe.

Parallels between the death of Musafa in Lion King & The fall of Kutalang'i Micheal Kijana Wamalwa

Wamalwa Kijana was instrumental in the struggle to liberate the country from the KANU regime. Together with Kibaki, in spite of the age parity, we the people of Mulembe saw a Mufasa-Simba scenario: A ruler and his successor.

Wanjala W'Mandari begins "Kutalang'i" by borrowing from a stylistic device common in narrations rather than songs: dialogue. In the dialogue, Nikola is called out and asked if he knows 'Askari Kombo'. In reference to Musikari Kombo the former Webuye MP who was elected by Ford Kenya delegates to succeed Wamalwa Kijana as party leader upon his demise of the former Vice-President. Nikola affirms that indeed it is Askari Kombo who now holds the tool of power in Ford Kenya.

Nikola's ensuing monologue informs the listener that Ford Kenya and indeed all people of Mulembe now look up to Musikari Kombo for leadership. Nikola also urges the community to work with Mwai Kibaki in order to partake the national cake and that the people of Mulembe should not to despair.

Then without warning, Nikola (Wanjala) lets out a yell! The kind of bawl let out when mourning a loved one. That kind that Raila let out when mourning Otieno Kajwang`.

For all the transient pretense of Nikola that all is well, "Kutalang`i" is a dirge. It's a patriot's song. It is the kind of song that serves as a release after losing a gallant soldier in war. Its damn emotional. Lion King level of emotional of a brutal unexpected death. Like when Musafa (Lion king) dies in the hands of his own brother after battling gallantly to save the life of his son.

Yet, instead of being overcome with sadness, the listener's hair stands on edge when listening to it. When I first took in the majesty of the song, a few tear drops escaped my eyes. Then I choked with anger almost insidiously, when it hit me what "WE" the people of Mulembe, avandu va` halala, lost.

But this pain that eats up the stomach and pierces the heart did not start with the fall of Omuengele Katulang'i. "Kutalang'i " traces backwards this anguishing journey.

"Kutalang'i " narrates to us how WE the people of Mulembe had sat down. Consulted. Discussed. And agreed on Masinde W'Makinia as our Lion King. Masinde Muliro ran well, prepared a MEAL but just about when he was to serve us, he fell. After his burial, Mulufu (a ceremony held three days after burial for settling any issues of the dead had with the living) Litungu was brought to talk to us.

How Omuengele became Kutalang`i

The Litungu told us that in Omuengele, we had a Lion King. Omuengele ran very fast. He was so good that even people overseas wanted to feel his majesty. And so he went overseas after taking over Ford Kenya leadership.

Judah is a lion's whelp; From the prey, my son, you have gone up He couches, he lies down as a lion, And as a lion, who dares rouse him up?

On his return, Omuengele constructed as small semi permanent shelter -Khanyenya- for the community to take cover during storms. Then came a big storm right after constructing Khanyenya. Our warriors- Musikari Kombo, Bifwoli Wakoli, Noah Wekesa, Mukhisa Kituyi, Wafula Wamuniynyi, Moses Wetangula- had set out to go raiding. When they returned, just like W'Makinia before him, Omuengele had also slept never to wake right after preparing a MEAL for his cubs.

The Short Reign of W'Nasipwondi Kutalang`i

Yet again the people of Mulembe mourned. Litungu was consulted and he gave us Askari W'Nasipwondi the Katulang'i . It would be an understatement to say that "Katulang'i" by Wanjala waxes lyrical on why Musikari Kombo was picked to replace Wamalwa Kijana.

W`Mandari take make time to introduce Musikari Kombo. Vide the quintessentially Bukusu music rough high pitch tenor, the listener gets to meet Kombo WNasipwondi who now takes center stage. Kombo the rainmaker. The one who will be buried while seated. The son of Balunda clan.

Then Ford Kenya Chairman Musikari Kombo (right) flanked by Bifwoli Wakoli addresses a press conference. Photo courtesy Nation Media

This bit makes me jealous of Balunda clan and the way they introduce themselves. As Wangari Maathai said :

"You cannot enslave a mind that knows itself. That values itself. That understands itself."

The Balunda have that something about themselves. They are the rain makers. Bury themselves while seated on thrones. The peacocks. They are showmen. Thinking of it, to be rainmaker (If Naija movies are anything to go by) you had to be able to pull put up a show. A Balunda man will proudly describe himself as Omusila Matakho, those without buttocks...but fool you not, he can easily steal your woman.

Such is their comfort in their being. Such is their gift in garb. Take Musikari Kombo for instance. Here is a man who will regale you with stories of his boyhood grazing cattle. I assure you that his version is nothing like you've heard from your parents or experienced. It's just that.

It won't be unbelievable, neither will it be easy to smell a lie in it. At times you will wonder why the story, but you wont drift off. You'll keep on listening. Think of it as ODM Sirisia parliamentary aspirant the flamboyant Moses Nandalawe, Mr Money bags, became a short story. What would you make of the story? It is just that. The Balunda magic. The Musikari Kombo version.

In "Katulang'i" Kombo is adorned with praise. He is asked to rise above petty politics and unite the community. Kombo is to bring back Nalulingo-Luhya pride."Katulang'i" implores on Mulembe nation to be like the foot and the footpath. To be like the bees: United.

"Kutalang`i" the War Song

As we had indicated earlier, "Katulang'i" is like supu ya mutura na bofulo. Things that shouldn't go together but do. It perfectly juxtaposes heart wrenching pain, that feeling of raring to go; anger and nostalgia. As we get to the climax by a change of tone the W`Mandari sets the stage to celebrate and charge Mulembe nation leaders.

Marvel at this mastery in execution: .

First, he starts off with his voice in minor Key, sounding beaten and dejected as he grieves Kijana Wamalwa and Masinde Muliro.

He then calls Wamalwa a Katulang'i (Lion King) "even when he slept, he is a lion."

" Masinde Muliro is also a lion even in his death, he is a lion! " He goes on.

"Kombo is a lion, taking the lead of the community, he is the big lion !"

" Mukhisa son of Kimilili is a lion!"

" Noah Wekesa of Kwanza is a lion! "

" Wamunyinyi of Kanduyi is a lion !"

" Wakoli of Bumula is a lion !"

" Newton Kulundu of Lurambi is a lion! "

He calls all other Luhya leader lions who are out hunting led by Kombo

"Katulang'i " is a great composition worthy of a treatment similar to that of the Lion King. The question. It's a worthwhile production pregnant with message. The question remains, if Litungu were to speak to us the people of Mulembe again today, what would it say? Who would be the Katulang'i ?

A portrait of Moses Masika Wetangula through Bukusu music, urban legend and hearsay

2017-05-31T08:24:00.000-07:00

Politics is war. Without the bullets, bombs and hopefully refugees. And so Mudavadi has Michael Osundwa Sakwa to do a job on Oparanya in the manner that Wetang`ula has Khalwale on. Ababu’s overflowing with brotherly love as he shovels propaganda to bury Mudavadi.

The Wamalwa-Uhuru bromance comes second only to the defiance of a good wife by the side of her public figure husband battling accusations of improper sexual relations-in the manner that Hillary Diane Rodham stuck on Bill- sitoki. Sibanduki. But as they say, all is fair in love and war.

Politics like chess, is a game of strategy

The Swahili would dismiss these as skirmishes of harmless sibling rivalry: Ukweli ni kuwa Ndungu wawili wakipigana, chukua jembe kaende shambani wakirudiana chukua kikapu ukavune. But as Aesop, slave and storyteller in ancient Greece tells us in “ Fable of the fighting bulls and the frog "

Two bulls were fighting furiously in a field, at one side of which was a marsh. An old frog living in the marsh, trembled as he watched the fierce battle.

"What are you afraid of?" asked a young frog.

"Do you not see," replied the old frog, "That the bull who is beaten, will be driven away from the good forage up there to the reeds of this marsh, and we shall all be trampled into the mud?"

It turned out as the frog had said. The beaten bull was driven to the marsh, where his great hoofs crushed the frogs to death.

Moral of the story? “When the great fall out, the weak must suffer for it.” At your peril then, dismiss media reports of Ford Kenya’s proclamation of a total lock down of Mulembe Nation from ODM. Unlike Mudavadi, Wamalwa or Pius Tawfiq Ababu Namwamba, Moses Masika Wetang`ula is a known Nandeti we Tosi! But before we get to why the Ford Kenya leader has the foresight of the old frog in Aesop’s fable, let’s set the stage.

Why Jubilee’s solitary strategy in dealing with NASA centers on disenfranchisement of Mulembe Nation

“Bullfighting is the only art in which the artist is in danger of death and in which the degree of brilliance in the performance is left to the fighter's honor,”

- Ernest Hemingway in "Death in the Afternoon"

Image: Madrid Traveler

The people of Mulembe understandably want to be done with the 2017 Kenya general elections. In fact, they can’t wait. By all projections, the famed zima taa brews will keep decimating transformers in other regions. Those kill me quick brews will not find landing in the land of Babami and Kamabongobongo. Moreover, by 2022, there will be no baiskili boda bodas that have been accused of rendering the contents of the family jewels of our young men useless.

Most importantly, Chiunwa chine chikhabuye esilongo. Mudavadi, Wetang`ula, Wamalwa and Ababu (the Chiunwa: Bulls) will have a`la Spanish bullfighting distinguished themselves. By then we will have hint as to who among them is the true Manso (coward bull) Parado (tired bull that’s generally cautious, wounded and liable to attack with cunning) and the Toro bravo/ toro de Lidia (brave bull).

Khubuya

Nonetheless, we the people of Mulembe will call each other for a special meeting. Similar to the one held when reintegrating initiates after circumcision. The initiates are asked to get into a hut whose door is left ajar. Lisielo liekhafu (sun-dried cow hide) is positioned at the entrance instead of the door and acts as a barrier between the initiates the rest of the community.

An elder tasked with the responsibility of debriefing the initiates is given busaa in a special calabash. This elder then delivers the life lessons, pauses, sips his busaa and spits kamasifwa. In similar vein, we the people of Mulembe will ask the four gentlemen to get into a room. We will then unleash elders on them. The likes of Wako, Kombo, Wangamati Snr, Wakoli, Akaranga, Gumo, Atwoli etc.

Nga basisikha chisekhe ne banyanya elomo. Khukhababite! The message will then be delivered by the wise Marende. Mulembe nation will then bless Kenya with one of them for the start of the Mulembe Nation reign lasting 40 years..10 years each for Wetang`ula, Mudavadi, Ababu and Wamalwa in whichever order.

We say this because the Eugine Wamalwa and Mudavadi show of unity in 2013 proved that Omurakori ne Omubukusu can do it. In 2017, Wetang`ula and Wycliffe Musalia Mudavadi made luhya unity a foregone conclusion. In fact, to our list of four Chiunwa, add Oparanya. And now that I have mentioned Oparanya, make it 50 years of Mulembe dynasty.

But for all this to work, one man needs to be entirely game. Not because he’s like Esau the thief who stole his brother’s birthright, but because in the thick of political contest he sits where the Field Marshall is in military rank. A friend tells me that four Field Marshall’s save for artillery pack a punch as much as a battalion. These guys are totally badass!

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I tell you this man has fine strategy minds under his beck and call. Just like Raila can summon the brains of Senior Counsel Orengo, Professors Nyongo and Zani; Moses Masika Wetang`ula has a Rtd Major General and medical doctor, a Bukusu Elder and an additional medical doctor as part of his mastermind group.

Masika Wetang`ula Omubutu

This man, Moses Masika Wetang`ula, was born late in 1956. Moses must have been born after a death in the community/family thus the Masika name. Masika is a male Bukusu name given to male children born during/after a funeral. Masika is Enombela: The shoot that sprouts from a fallen tree.

Wetang`ula attended humble schools like with Wekesa’s, Wafula’s ne` Wanyama. Nalondo Primary School, Busakala Secondary School, Teremi Secondary School (all in his home constituency: Kabuchai) and Friends School Kamusinga for his A Levels. He then proceeded to the University of Nairobi where he studied Bachelor of Laws. Masika of the Omubutu clan enjoys dark colored suits and ties with a pop of color. But you are likely to find him in Khaki trousers matched with Nelson Mandela like shirts or the Ford Kenya green and white shirt. Moses stands at slightly more than 6feet tall.

Wetang`ula has this characteristic widows peak hairline: A teasing strip of hair running right in the middle of his brow forming a sharp V. You know that one as kids we christened Kiherere? That one. This Kiherere hairline gives him a perfect heart shape face. Baby faced even. Always clean shaven, Moses is considered light skinned by Bukusu standards.

Let me tell you about Moses` smile. Weta far from what you see on TV is not a smiley face. He rarely smiles. But when he does, from his lips escapes that rare gem; a disarming smile, complete with a bewitching incisor teeth gap commonly referred to as Embanya.

Hon. Wetang`ula has good command of all languages I know. He speaks Bukusu, impeccable English (Don’t we all love his press statements like this one dressing down WSR?) And if you want to know how good his Swahili is, tune in to live Senate proceedings where he occasionally breaks into Kiswahili.

Kutalang'i

Like the lion that stars on his party’s symbol, Wetang'ula speaks with a roar. The kind of roar you that reminds one Oliver Mutukudzi or Brian Adams music. The senate minority leader enjoys a good game of soccer over a bottle of Tusker and Nyama choma. Typically Kenyan guy. He flourishes where deep conversations flow. He can comfortably deeply discuss anything: dogs, farming, soccer, politics, economics, law name it! He knows everything.The consummate conversationalist.

He who refuses to embrace a unique opportunity loses the prize as surely as if he had failed

William James, the father of American Psychology, is credited with this saying, but it is this quote by the lesser prominent Wallace that exposit Moses Masika Wetang`ula’s temperament:

"There's a difference between an opportunist, and someone who seizes an opportunity. One selfishly harvests the fruits of another's labor, the other strategically helps plant the seeds. The latter can be an asset, the former will always be a leech."

- Carlos Wallace, "Life Is Not Complicated-You Are: Turning Your Biggest Disappointments Into Your Greatest Blessings"

Moses Wetang`ula was first nominated to parliament in 1992 by President Moi. For those like me who were still khutobotia kamatosi and eating Kamafunyo; this around the time Cyrus Jirongo and William Ruto were forming Y2K to stem the opposition’s onslaught on KANU’s rule with clamor for multiparty politics.

Unlike master political brokers Jirongo and Ruto, Wetang`ula is rumored to have benefited from the nomination slot meant for his father KANU stalwart, Councillor Dominic Wetang`ula. Wetang`ula senior is said to have requested the president to consider his son Moses instead.

Testament to our earlier reference of him has Feild Marshall, Wetang`ula picked up from these scraps and has had been in Kenya’s legislative arm of government for close to 30 years. He has represented Sirisia constituency from 2002 to 2013. In 2013, he joined the senate as the inaugural leader of minority on a CORD ticket.

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Save for his failed bid in 1997, Wetang`ula has never been out in the cold thanks to his acumen in cold calculation. Take the example that while serving as the Sirisia legislator, a chunk of his constituency- Chwele to Mt Elgon that forms the current Sirisia constituency- felt isolated and neglected.

The people of Sirisia fronted Major John Walukhe as to challenge Wetang`ula. Needless to say, that there is no love lost between the current Sirisia legislator (Jubilee point man) and Hon. Wetang`ula. When opportunity presented itself in the name of the Andrew Ligale led IIEBC, constituency boundary review, Hon.Wetang`ula welcomed the idea to hive off Kabuchai from Sirisia.

After the demise of doyen Michael Kijana Wamalwa, Ford Kenya had three strong candidates for its leadership: Moses Wetang`ula, Musikari Kombo and Mukhisa Kituyi. Musikari Kombo took forte shortly before decamping to New Ford Kenya. Dr. Mukhisa Kituyi followed Kombo to New Ford Kenya before exiling to the lucrative post of UNCTAD sec.general.

The intrigues behind this speedy shift in allegiances is one the three gentlemen will one day tell. But it must have been too hot in there. Am not accusing him of starting the fire, but Moses Wetang`ula was the last man standing. A decade, thereabouts, after been nominated by the last ruling parliament to parliament, Wetang`ula was now in control of a respected brand in Kenya’s opposition struggle.

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He took over Ford Kenya leadership with gusto exhibiting his gusto for alliances of convenience: NARC in 2002 which yield the foreign affairs minister position allowing him the platform to build and deepen multilateral relationships necessary for ascending to the presidency; CORD in 2012 which made him Senate minority leader and built his credentials as a national leader and and people’s champion; and now NASA in 2017 as proposed Deputy Chief Minister.

Son of Pilate

Wetang`ula the politician is a bully. He is shrewd. Brutal. Referred to as Okhwa Pilato. Lethal. Calculating. Conniving. His key strength is his ability to maintain contacts with all his campaign machinery. Few dare betray him. Anyone who has engaged him in political battle is left licking his wounds years later. When he perceives one as a threat, he makes sure he ‘buries the enemy in a political grave with his two hands’. Opponents therefore dare not give him the spade, jembe, hammer and opportunity for obvious reasons.

Moses` reign has not been without controversies. Wetang`ula has been adversely mentioned in the Tokyo embassy scandal where the Kenyan taxpayer is said to have lost approximately Ksh 1.6 Billion. His 2012 senatorial election win was contested. In a petition filed by Musikari Kombo, it was alleged that Wetang`ula bribed voters. The election result was nullified. However, Hon. Wetang`ula, a man of nine lives, recaptured the seat with a landslide in a by election.

Weta has been implicated in countless sexual and marital scandals. In Proverbs 31:1-3, King Lemuel laments:

What, O my son? And what, O son of my womb? And what, O son of my vows? Do not give your strength to women, Or your ways to that which destroys kings.

From King David to Lwanda Magere, many rulers, kings, politicians and leaders have fallen to the ways of willy women

But in the phallophoric Bukusu culture, these scandals have earned him political mileage instead. In one instance, when there was hullabaloo over an alleged affair with a female nominated MCA, most Bukusu dismissed the whole with the idiom: Eunwa efwichanga ne lunyasi mukhanwa. A bull dies with grass in his mouth.

The man, the legend

Wetang`ula has never campaigned for more than three months. His is the Ford Kenya party leader. He is in charge. He knows when and whom to send. Or rather like in the viral Chuck Norris internet memes they send they themselves. While posters print themselves, climb up electricity poles and up the walls of mukongo kwe embwa shops and stick themselves. During campaigns, no village is too deep for Wetang`ula to enter. No hut too smokey for his bespectacled heart shaped face.

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It is believed that most Bukusu men and women who hold plum positions in the country are courtesy of his lobbying. Yet he still divides opinion in manner second only to his co principal Raila Odinga. People who love him do it with so much passion bordering sycophancy. On the other hand, those that hate him don't even wish to see his face or hear his voice.

The Bukusu have a way of appreciating their own by naming and composing songs of praise. Countless males sons have been called after him. Songs have been composed in his honor. One such song done by Steve K Soreri wefwe Wetang`ula kola i.e. Our boy Wetang`ula has arrived. Steve K tells us how Kakamega, Busia, Women, Men, Trans Nzoia...everyone is excited to welcome Wetang`ula. Ladies and gentlemen, let`s rise from our seats, Kila mtu na mapeka yake, time to shake a leg. Indulge!

Bungoma County: Women County Representative intrigues.

2017-05-22T08:26:00.005-07:00

The seat for County Women Member of Parliament commonly referred to as Woman Rep has attracted thereabouts 10 candidates as at my last count. Like in the Bungoma governor race, the chisenye are incumbent Hon Dr Reginalda Nakhumicha Wanyonyi and Catherine Nanjala Wambilianga. The rest are chinywinywi.

The Political party factor

Hon Reginalda is defending her seat on Jubilee party and the challenger Catherine is Ford Kenya's candidate. Make no mistake, Bungoma county is a Ford Kenya strong hold. First, it's Weta, Hon Moses Wetangula, the NASA principle`s backyard.

Secondly, Ford Kenya has been Omubukusu's liberation vehicle from their days in opposition. The days of Masinde Muliro Wa'Makinia and Wamalwa Kijana. In fact Wamalwa was buried with the FK flag in a similar manner that a patriot is buried with the nation's flag. This, serves as an apt reminder of the symbolism of the party's cultural importance. Something that the Bukusu people of Mulembe take pride in.

Meet Reginalda Nakhumicha from Lurende Village, Kabuchai Constituency Atekha Kimilili

Dr Reginalda Nakhumicha is in her late 50s or early 60s. She must have been born early in the year given that Nakhumicha is the name given to Bukusu girls born during the planting season. She is of average height. African woman. Comfortable in her skin not lost in the charade of weight loss flavored teas and ugly sweat pants gym selfies.

In fact, she cuts the a figure of mayi. A big fan of flowing Vitenges and other simple motherly outfits that my and your mother don. Nakhumicha's a mother of five; quite unlike her peers, our mothers, who popped out nine onward.

Nakhumicha hails from Lurende village of Kabuchai constituency and got married to Wanyonyi from Kimilili. If you are unfamiliar with Bungoma county, kindly note the name of that village somewhere. We'll reveal why where she was born and is married is important in the race for Bungoma county WR.

First off is marital status. The Bukusu are particular on who they bequeath power. They give power to married people only. Single mothers are stigmatized. On the campaign trail, the Bukusu voter will keep asking women aspirants: "Ewe otekha wae ?" Where do you cook?

But these questions are busuma ne mrere to Reginalda. A destroyer of glass ceilings, Nakhumicha is an academician per excellence. She holds a PhD in environmental sciences and was a senior lecturer in Moi University before plunging in politics.

She cut her teeth in politics vying for Kimilili MP seat during the Hon. Dr. Mukhisa Kituyi era. Anyone who has faced Hon. Dr. Mukhisa Kituyi will attest to why he calls himself Owakifumbusia. meaning the hunting dog who teases out prey from the bush. A powerful orator, Reginalda must have had her political acumen sharpened in her battles with Dr Mukhisa. Iron sharpens iron.

Given such a journey to the Women Rep. incumbency, little wonder then that Reginalda comes to us as the woman among the men. Not really Martha Karua's "the only man" in the PNU Cabinet, despite the fact that all the other Cabinet members were men; but her slogan "Nasio we` county" draws inspiration from this.

Let us break this down for you.

A slogan equates to the tagline of a brand. The most famous of taglines, Nike's "Just do it now" grew the brand from just $877 million in 1988 to $9.6B in 1998. A slogan is the call to action. The rallying call. The battle cry that calls the troops to order and into formation. Akin to the chorus of a song that imprints a tune into hearts.

Nasio is the name given to this, often tom boy, girl born among boys. A Nasio, through nurture, often bears alpha male personna. Nasio are typically very aggressive. However, under the hood, when pushed hard enough, Nasio are akin to a softly boiled egg. The soft yolk occupying their core flows out under pressure.

Given the natural protective instincts of the male species, the male kinsmen to a Nasio are likely to pamper as much as they knock her about. Am no psychologist neither do I intend to be frown upon ethical constructs of the trade, but a Nasio, will crave for this protection.

Nasio we` county is no different. Politics is no church, but Reginalda can be very emotional. Twice, I have witnessed her fail to hold her emotions when she took to the mic. She wept in a Sulwe FM interview, at a Misikhu church; once, she left the mic after delivering a speech less than 2 minutes long. Credit to her though, she's got better with this with time.

Of Esther, Mordecai, African Constructs of women and being a Woman Leader

Being of similar political persuasion, Nasio we` county is in a very comfortable place with Governor Lusaka. A vantage position to address the county's not so secret shame. Chisoni cha the rampant teenage pregnancies in Mt Elgon. Moreover, I am not aware of any interventions in her kitty to curb this.

In addition, occupying such a warm place, mayi Reginalda could have done more as regards the good Senator of Bungoma and Governor's open tiff. She could have been more like Queen Esther of the Persian King Ahasuerus during the time of Achmaemenid Empire. Queen Esther single handedly averted the King's assassination, saved her people from genocide and made one of her kinsmen, Mordecai, Chief Minister.

Reminder: on that note book we had asked you to note down the name of a certain village, kindly note the word 'kinsman' too. We promise to join these dots for you. For now, it can't be lost on you that Weta's quest for presidency could have gained insurmountable traction had Governor Lusaka, and pockets of resistance to Weta's leadership in Bungoma, been pacified through honest negotiation. As a result, the threat to the King - Governor KLM reign- is in real danger.

Reginalda, the first Woman Rep Bungoma County, sets the pace

Whichever way 8/8/2017 goes, Reginalda will forever be remembered for establishing BUCOWO. A savings and credit cooperative society for women to borrow loans and repay back with low interest rates. This is a noble venture that requires future Bungoma Women Reps to nurture it to ubiquity by deepening its percolation at the bottom of the pyramid.

Normal teething problems with the National Government Affirmative action Fund notwithstanding, Nakhumicha has also done well in the education sector. I have come across more than 10 projects in one sub-county bearing her name. These range from class rooms, dormitories, laboratories, dinning halls etc.

Meet the Challenger: Catherine Nanjala Wambilianga from Sichei Village, Kabuchai Constituency Atekha, Webuye

Catherine Nanjala Wambilianga is a secondary school teacher, mother, renown unionist and wife. KUPPET gender secretary. Catherine has also served as a commissioner in the National Council for Nomadic education. This will be her second stab for WR on Ford Kenya ticket. She must have been born somewhere between April and August as Nanjala are girls born during the famine season.

She hails from Sichei area in Kabuchai constituency married in Webuye. In her late 40s or early 50s. Slim. Trim. A flamboyant dresser. She has these flowing maxi dresses that hug her where it matters. Just enough to keep one curious. Always on, is her Orie Rogo Manduli-esque West African head gear.

Despite her notable professional achievements, not much has been documented about her public life. There are two reasons behind this. First, it appears that she has chosen to take cover under the hunter-in-the-dark phenomenon that challengers invariably benefit from. As Reginalda hogs the dance floor engrossed in an unsightly zigzag dance, oblivious that she's too drunk to achieve the seductive outcomes she yearns for, Catherine steals suggestive glances at the now embarrassed suitor.

The second reason must lie in her personality. Catherine is one who effortlessly keeps things under wraps. Cool. Calm. Witty. Friendly. Approachable. She has this infectious from the belly laugh. But the salt in the soup lies elsewhere. A temperament revealed in her slogan "Omukoko we Sinani": Tenacious woman.

Catherine is a fighter. She has been in the race despite her loss in 2013. To get the Ford Kenya ticket she had to battle candidates rumored to be close to party hierarchy. Kenyan politics is expensive. Loyalties shift quickly and relevance has the elusiveness of enduyu: Wild hare. Worse for women in Bukusu land who have to challenge patrilineal customs to even start dreaming of political power. And vanquish them she did. In her campaign rallies she calls and the crows responds:

Ford Kenya! Simba

Ford Kenya! Simba Ekhasi (Lioness)

Where it gets ugly: Of clans & Feudal Politics

Bungoma County has nine constituencies. Three on the lower side (further down the slopes of Mt Elgon) home to the be` wa'Sudi : Bumula, Sirisia and Kanduyi. Three constituencies is in the belly: Kabuchai, Webuye East and Webuye West which houses both the be` wa'Sudi and be` wa'Amutalla. And three constituencies on the upper side Tongaren, Kimilili and Mt Elgon; home to the Wa'Amutalla.

When the county cake is shared, regionalism comes into play. It is chaos when negotiated democracy fails, as evident in other counties like Isiolo which has eight governor aspirants! Similarly, the agitation that county leaders have to come from all the three regions has refused to slither way in Bungoma.

Then there is the issue of historical imbalances. I'll have to revise my history as to why, but the perception in 21st century Bungoma is that the Wa'Amutalla benefited more from the colonialists and an independent Kenya. They are perceived to be more educated and even speak Swahili-nised lubukusu.

For example the Wa'Amutalla will call beans kamarakwe while their counter parts in the lower region will say kamakanda. In 2013, the Governor was from Tongaren constituency (Wa'Amutalla), Senator Kabuchai constituency (Belly) and Women Rep Kimilili (Wa'Amutalla). As a consequence, the lower region has felt sidelined and have been waiting for their turn this time.

The Deferred Dreams Of Wa'Sudi

Now is the time to dust off the notebook we had asked you to keep. You see, Kabuchai constituency is Bungoma`s answer to that fabled village in Muranga whose sons and daughters run the show. Where it is said Equity bank C.E.O and chair to the board, James Mwangi. hails from. That one.

Kubuchai constituency is home to Senate Minority leader, Ford Kenya party leader Hon. Wetang'ula; and his key challenger Juma Mukhwana of Jubilee Party. Current Bungoma county Women Representative Hon. Reginalda Nakhumicha Wanyonyi; and her challenger Catherine Wambillianga. KLM's main challenger Wycliffe Wangamati aspiring Governor on Ford Kenya party also hails from Khachonge village of Kabuchai constituency.

Catherine Wambillianga and Wycliffe Wangamati share a chief and mukasa. Aspiring Senator Juma Mukhwana, Women Rep Reginalda Nakhumicha Wanyonyi and NASA doyen Hon. Wetangula can comfortably borrow salt from each other. Their homes are less than 10 minutes drive apart. Given that the deputy governor's position is literally for the Saboat from Mt. Elgon And that Bungoma's next governor is likely to be Wycliffe Wangamati or Ken Lusaka Makelo;

What do the be` wa'Sudi make of this?

Who among the women county Rep aspirants front runners has enough within them to prevail upon the Wa'Sudi for their votes ?
Will there be a protest vote from the Wa'Sudi that will see the underdog Women Rep aspirants, the likes of Antonnina Muyoka (lawyer), Beatrice Kituyi (former PS), Hellen Nafula, Jackline Nasimiyu (businessperson), Sween Nyongesa, Hellen Wavomba, Nancy Kibabaa (nominated MCA), Consolata Wakwabubi (former Bungoma county gender chief officer) Maria Nato, Anna Nandako, prevail ?
Has any of the chinyinywi the strategic nous to take advantage of this regional imbalance?
Does any of the chiunwa, ANC governor aspirant Steve Mutoro and ODM governor aspirant Alfred Khangati have the mobilization skills to mobilize the Wa'Sudi and other communities in cosmopolitan Bungoma county to upset KLM and WWW ?
Or will a Enjofu fall given that Senetor Moses Wetangula is facing a challengers from NASA in former journalists David Makali of ANC (Bungoma Town) and ODM's Bonny Wayne Nyongesa (Bukembe village of Kanduyi constituency) ?

This man Kubende Wa'Wekhomba! Unveiling Wycliffe Wangamati Trump Card in the Race For Bungoma Governor

2017-05-20T09:02:00.001-07:00

Its 1048hrs Saturday morning when I finally get a chance to scan my social media networks. There's nothing much on WhatsApp. Trending on Tweeter is the maize scandals. Skip that. I am in no mood for such depressing stuff. Off to Facebook where this post on Bungoma Digest gets me glued on. It's a post by one Tim Machi. It had been posted 1hr ago but had a staggering 300 comments! Something juicy must be on. My heart leaps. Tim is a co admin of Bungoma Digest. A closed group he founded a couple of years ago. Why the group was formed and its vision is a story for another day. Tim`s post has disturbing news. News that's likely to be a spanner in the works for the grueling Bungoma governor race. Joseph Kubende was attacked last night!

Meet the contenders for the Bungoma Governor seat: Emboko Lusaka vs. Emboko Wangamati. Pssst.....the rest are Biunwa!

Bungoma county gubernatorial race has two main contenders: Wycliffe Wangamati commonly referred to as WWW and the incumbent Kenneth Lusaka. Wycliffe is the son of Hon Patrick Wangamati- a Ford Kenya nominated Member of Parliament. Wycliffe been working as CEO Alexander Forbes and had been a businessman in Bungoma town before plunging into politics. WWW will be contesting for the Bungoma governor seat on Ford Kenya Party.

Ken Lusaka on the other hand was a Mwai Kibaki era permanent secretary in the ministry of livestock before clinching the Bungoma county gubernatorial seat. Ken will be defending his seat on the Jubilee party. His 5years tenure have been marred with lots of scandals.

The most infamous of which earned Ken Lusaka the nick name sibunogenic. Clever word pun play of the Bukusu word sibuno meaning the buttocks; and the medical term carcinogenic-a reference that stems from the frivolous claims of special properties that made an abitiour wheelbarrow cost a whooping Ksh109,000/=

Lusaka being my father's ageset, it is a taboo among the people of Mulembe a child discussing his father`s behinds. Moreover, this being a family blog, I refuse to delve into details of Bungoma behinds and their affliction for wheelbarrows. Next time you chance upon anyone from Bungoma, ask them about sibunogenic and they will regale you with stories of escapades to your fill. But for all the bad press that the wheelbarrow scandal was/is, it pales in gravity to the Joseph Kubende aka Kubende Wa'Wekhomba factor.

As if sibunogenic isn't a mountain too high for Lusaka to climb, here comes WWW's Joseph Kubende

Joseph the choir master. The cheer leader. The matador. Joseph Kubende he of the WWW campaign team is a middle age male in his early thirties or thereabouts. Joseph doesn't stand more than 6feet tall. Athletic. Sharp dresser. Charming. Wears spectacles with carefully chosen frames and clear lenses that makes one make eye contact regardless. Joseph has this seductive embanya between his incisors. The type of mwanya big enough to fit another tooth. A firm handshake to boot. When Joseph speaks, he bellows. He has this deep, boisterous, rustic voice.

Joseph speaks while singing. On the WWW campaign trail, it is Kubende Wa'Wekhomba who speaks last, ushering in and setting the stage for WWW. And girl, Joseph has a way with words. Kubende Wa'Wekhomba has this good command of the expression and word rich Bukusu language.

A mastery replete with old sayings, epigrams, idioms and parables. A feat quite impressive for his age given that there are very few Bukusus with this gift of garb; whose masters are the likes of eminences Hon.Masinde Muliro wa Makinia, Hon. Wamalwa Kijana, and Hon.Wakoli Bifwoli.

Grab some popcorns and allow us to detail why this is important. And why it was such a masterstroke (he is a C.E.O remember!) for the stiff, less charming WWW to encompass Kubende's talent in the race for Bungoma governor.

Omubukusu akhwima biakhulia lakini sakhwima elomo ta. A bukusu will deny you food but not a heart to heart.

Bukusu are a passionate people. The Bukusu take pride in themselves and those who can speak proper Bukusu without a twang. Joseph has given this to them and more. Joseph has mixed this rich bukusu language with Bukusu songs from community legends like Wasike Wa Musungu. What this does is it harps on the familiar to unlock the hearts and eventually, hopefully, votes for WWW as Bungoma governor. All Bukusus adore Wasike wa Musungu's music. It is Wasike who sang the "otamba otamba okheba...." tune in the sixties or fifties. Wasike remains a Bukusu cultural icon. It remains an all time greatest hit. Joseph knows this and gives it to the people during campaigns.

Cultural Nous

Bukusus love the euphoria that comes with the circumcision season. Lukembe takes even more prominence as we head deeper into the 21st century, as it seen as a way of preserving the bukusu culture. A hallmark if the festivities is composition of a simple sing along chorus bearing contemporary messages. The encrypted messages can vary from shaming the village gossip, castigating a murder or even feting a good person in the community.

Kubende's creative genius saw him borrow from this tradition and compose a simple chorus, housed by the Wasike wa Musungu tune to shame incumbent Bungoma governor Kenneth Lusaka. Kubende's method is so effective, allowing him to localize any message for the public in any corner of Bungoma county.

From the alleged plunder of Bungoma county government resources to tales of sexual impropriety (remember the behinds) and other kinds of sleaze spread during highly charged political campaigns in the realm of this race for Bungoma governor. But for all the gravitas that is sucked in from hyper-localizing a political message, the savageness of the Kubende methods lies elsewhere.

Here is how it goes.

Now before WWW speaks, Joseph goes first. Joseph in his deep rustic boisterous voice first introduces himself. He bellows with authority! He then gives the people all evils and shortfalls of Ken Lusaka's regime. Before the Joseph Kubende show, team Triple W keen to preserve the gentlemanly, collected, professional image of their boss, sets the stage for Joseph to do the dirty work with everyday political rhetoric. And he does it well. In fact, he relishes it as his alter ego, Kubende Wa'Wekhomba, comes out to play.

Kubende Wa'Wekhomba gets to it and systematically undresses Kenneth.

He renders the incumbent useless and evil. To stir anger-useful anger that any political campaign hinges on to nudge voters to forego all other activities on election day so as to vote- Kubende makes it known to the people any projects in the area that could have been done/failed to be done by the current regime.

Kubende Wa'Wekhomba informs the people how money has been siphoned in the name of bringing development to their respective sub counties. As we had alluded to earlier, this message is bespoke for the location. Finally, with the crowd charged, Kubende Wa Wekhomba delivers his signature fatality move. With this one move, the incumbent's legacy is massacred. With this sweeping move the incumbent is soiled in the eyes of the electorate.

In the call-response style of African folk songs, every one of Kubende Wa'Wekhomba's soloist calls, Kubende teaches the crowd what to chant back. The crowd is invariably required to answer back

" Lusaka omwene omubi aaaah..."

Rinse. Repeat.

To say Kubende Wa'Wekhomba charges the crowd is reductive. Even revisionist. Wa'Wekhomba like a skillful matador ~~prepares~~ calms the crowd for the main speech by bludgeoning through any resistance. Once Kubende's through clan affiliations, regional arithmetic of Be` Wa'Sudi and Be` Wa' Amtallah and even political persuasions are gone. The minds of the crowd tuned to the requisite frequencies for WWW's message. He even asks the now obedient crowd to maintain pin drop silence when WWW is addressing them.To Joseph him of the surname Goebbles, from yonder, this is how you do rhetoric without bigotry or social cleansing. Indulge:

Sights & Sounds Of Trans Nzoia: Rare Wisdom From Matisi

2017-05-17T02:30:00.000-07:00

On your way out of Trans Nzoia county headquaters, Kitale town, towards Endebess at the foot of Mt. Elgon on the Kenya-Uganda border; Matisi town straddles the 'highway' over a stretch of a kilometer thereabouts.

Mmh! While scientists in IVY league universities propose and counter propose the role of luck in things as varied as your cells turning cancerous to how successful you become in life; the lads in Matisi have reduced down this raging debate to this saying.

Like any other peri-urban center in rural Kenya, sanitation may at times be wanting given our propensity to fail to plan for our populations. Moreover, Matisi, like many urban centers in Trans Nzoia is rather densly populated, as most of the available land is reserved for maize and sugar plantations.My estimates would be something like 4,000 people packed over the stretch, tightly hugging the highway, housed in mud walled structures.

There is that odd two storied complex but the shops are largely of mgongo kwe embwa type. Charcoal trading is a mainstay here. The 2kg gorogoro that goes for 50 bob upwards in most urban centers should set you back 25 bob or so. Pray tell, the charcoal source be Mt. Elgon forest.

So are there also numerous small holder dry maize 'warehouses' handling grain from surrounding farms and neighboring Uganda. It is said Kenyans have leased large tracts of land at the foot of the mountain.

Just at the edge of the town, just before you get to the expansive ADC Trans Nzoia farms, you can get yourself some Engokho at reasonable prizes from traders by the roadside. Last time I checked, a mwera went for 350-550 bob, jogoo for 450-650.

Just off the Matisi- Endebess road, by the Matisi-Misanga road is this Kinyozi. Going by the penchant for the proprietor to educate the public with uncanny business names, our guess is that the owners of the shop above could also be running this Kinyozi next to he shop.

Demographically, Matisi is representative of the cosmopolitan Trans Nzoia county. Far removed from the reality around Kenya, there is only one entertainment spot. It's housed in the urban center's only storied building.

Strange as it might be, Trans Nzoia is not particularly known for its entertainment spots. Save for the members only politician frequented Kitale Club, for many years a night out in Kitale town meant crowding up in the towns only night spot 5 Gb club.

Nobody Should Learn Under These Conditions In The 21st Century: Who Will Rescue The Girl Child Of This Primary School In Lugari Kakamega County?

2017-03-16T02:32:00.003-07:00

This girl,said to be from a Primary School in Lugari, Kakamega County, smiles as she goes about Khumalao as wandase in Bungoma call this activity steeped in Mulembe tradition. Simiyu Wandibba in his 1985 book History and Culture In Western Kenya: The People of Bungoma District Through Time; reveals that the application of cow dung to floors was done to maintain cleanliness and smoothness.

Pictures that draw attention to the inequality in Kenya have surfaced online with many, most likely middle class Kenyans, aghast at school children having to Khumalao classrooms. Thirty or so years after themselves (now grandparents/parents/uncles/aunts to these children) had to Khumalao in pursuit of a brighter tomorrow.

Indeed, the stagnation in human development depicted in these pictures 54 years after independence is appalling. Whilst one can only be inspired by these girls determination to get an education via this act of building classrooms with their own hands, the realization that we have once again failed our children chokes one with shame.

The Good

Mgala muue na haki yake mpee. We are reminded by this Swahili proverb to appropriate blame and praise justly. To us children of Mulembe Nation, Kuboma nyumba is part of culture. We applied cow dung and soil mixtures on the floors and walls routinely and whenever we needed to 'remodel' our homes in expectation of visitors.

We therefore should be reluctantly forgiven if we somewhat perceive the injustice depicted in the pictures as being a normal occurrence. Nonetheless, as we awaken to this reality we must remember that sadly, these children have it better than some children in Kenya who are learning under trees with no desks or stationery.

If we are allowed to take the plight of these children in this light, it might be worthy to expound why Khumalao the classroom is a novel innovation given the circumstances. To combat the jigger menace, public health officials are encouraging Ugandans to learn from our cousins the Teso whose use of cow dung to seal cracks in walls and floors where jiggers breed before infestation has been found to be highly effective.

Despite Uganda having somewhat similar cultural mosaic to Kenya with ethnic Nilotes, Bantus and Cushites; Uganda had to look east to our cousins the Teso for this public health measure with African roots. Searching online, I found it quite surprising that Khumalao is not as common place as one would think! This lends credence to the stifled notion that the land of Mulembe is indeed a hot spot for cultural tourism as blogged here by an American Peace Corp.

As depicted in the picture by these school girls from a primary school in Lugari, Kakamega County, the application of cow dung is done by hand after making the paste lighter using water. The pupils appear to be quite comfortable thus chances are that the cow dung paste isn't as pungent as imagined.

The Ugly

From my limited research, it did not emerge that the Primary School depicted was a girls only school. Though the pictures do not capture the boy child; having attended similar schools, we all know that the boys were most likely involved in other tasks as prescribed by cultural gender norms. Nonetheless, this pictures are a stark reminder of what Paul Wenzel Geissler and Ruth Jane describe in the book: The Land Is Dying: Contingency, Creativity and Conflict In Western Kenya, that Khumalao was a woman's only job.

Jubilee government's digital primary schools initiative has been lauded for its foresight as it has been castigated for being emblematic of irresponsible priority setting given that most rural schools lack basic amenities like habitable classrooms and even electric power to charge the laptops/tablets. Here at the very least we see that this school has furniture.

Kichapo Cha Arsenal: Mulembe Nation Celebrates as Our Very Own Nzoia Sugar Thrashes SportsPesa KPL Defending Champions Tusker FC 5-2

2017-03-11T14:24:00.000-08:00

#NzoiaYefwe

Nzoia Sugar served up the upset of the day not only in the SportPesa Kenya Premier League but probably in world football given that the smart money had been staked against Arsenal in their Emirates FA Cup quarter final tie.

Maybe with Radio Africa's Bamba Sport now airing Nationwide Super League football, we will be better prepared next time as we would be exposed to grassroots soccer. Like us, the reigning champions Tusker were clearly sprung by the Harambee Stars veteran,Benerd Mwalala, coached Nzoia Sugar FC

In the pre-match presser Mwalala, cutting a relaxed figure, had indicated that he intended to give the SportPesa KPL a taste of his football that had dominated Super League football- scoring 75 goals to the title.None of his players, Mwalala offered, save for one, had ever played for a Kenya Premier League Side. They were young, fresh, rearing to go and prove they belonged. They wouldn't change their style of play even facing the mighty reigning champions Tusker FC.

Nzoia Sugar Style Of Play

It can be likened to Jurgen Klopp's gegenpress. Nzoia Sugar's FC forwards are all action. Snipping away at the feet of deep lying midfielders and defenders to prevent the team from building from the back. Bernard Mwalala's side are quick in the wings and are in constant attack mode varying their approach to include long balls to the tall nimble forwards.

The strengths of this system is evident in the number of goals that Nzoia FC scored and the subtitles revealed by the statistics (In the first half, Nzoia Sugar had more three times the attempts on target with lesser possession than Tusker). The manner of conceding the first goal where defenders committed but didn't make the tackle illustrates its weaknesses. Tusker FC second goal came off a set piece at the edge of the area thanks to overzealous pressing.

Verdict: It will take a while for teams to make out Nzoia Sugar FC. Even so, the qualities they posses within their ranks (youthful vigor, speed, hard work and stamina) could bode well for a true counter attacking approach. Discipline will be a key challenge given their inexperience and aggressive style of play.

Tusker FC Verdict

It has not been a good start for the defending Champions- knocked out of CAF Champions League; Lost the Super Cup. Their light recruitment over the summer now appears suspect given that the squad is aging (probably averaging at 30years). They need to adopt to the ideas of their new manager fast and summon all their experience if they are going to make anything the 2017 football season.

As It Happened: Goals & Key Moments In Match

8' Tusker FC Goal ⚽ Noah Wafula cut through the Nzoia Sugar FC defense like a hot knife on butter

23' Nzoia Sugar FC Goal ⚽ Rupia goal ...free kick from a set piece just at the edge of the box

42' Nzoia Sugar FC Goal ⚽ Edwin Wafula penalty goal

47' Tusker FC Goal ⚽ Batambuze- Ugandan National left winger scores for Tusker

51' Nzoia Sugar FC Goal ⚽ Brian Otieno Tap in from corner

64' Nzoia Sugar FC Goal ⚽ Brian Otieno Header

85' Tusker FC denied⛔ Clifford Alwanga wins penalty for Tusker which Nzoia Keeper Benson Mangala

Catch All The Action Here!

Local free to air TV curates all the action in this video.

8 goals on match day one: New boys Nzoia Sugar rout league holders 5-2. #NTVSport @SethOlale #KPL2017 https://t.co/Yi4gYlzCrm pic.twitter.com/wRvNt3unJ9
— NTV News (@NTVnewsroom) March 11, 2017

Bungoma County Governor Not To Be Left Behind

Mchezea kwao hutuzwa! Maybe the Governor should be telling us why Nzoia Sugar FC fans have to travel all the way from Bungoma and other Mulembe counties to cheer their team in Afraha, Nakuru. Bwana Governor, you should borrow a leaf from Governor Oparanya in Kakamega who has taken upon his government to make Bukhungu stadium a home for SportPesa KPL side Kakamega Homeboys FC

Nzoia Sugar FC have just returned to the Premier League after a decade, but they are already making us proud. Keep the winning spirit up!
— Ken Lusaka (@Ken_Lusaka) March 11, 2017

Shirt Sponsors Reveled In Victory

Nzoia sugar company has been emblematic of Kenya's troubled sugar sector:delays in payment to farmers for delivered cane and corruption. In cognizance of that, it must have been a tough deciding how best to improve its corporate image and defend its market position given the erosion of brand equity that might come with such negative press.

Today's triumph of Nzoia Sugar FC represented money well spent beyond the expected as it was symbolic of a corporate David slaying a Goliath. On the day and within this realm, the organization and execution by tiny, troubled, rural, small town based company slayed the sophistication of a multinational backed giant.

Nzoia Sugar FC players celebrating after scoring against Tusker FC.>EM. pic.twitter.com/wjRxHFfKIW
— Nzoia Sugar Co.Ltd (@Nzoiasugar) March 11, 2017

The Football Team Big's Up The Shirt Sponsors

Probably to remind us that the 2017 SportPesa KPL Nzoia Sugar FC is not owned by the sugar miller, but rather sponsored by the Webuye based miller.

@TuskerFC_club . Thanks for coming!!! Need some Sugar maybe?. Nzoia Sugar sweetening Kenya since 1978.
— Nzoia Sugar Football (@NzoiaFC) March 11, 2017

100 Days Of Kenya Doctor's Strike Looms: See This Hilarious Facebook Status Update By Exasperated Son Of Mulembe That Recently Went Viral

2017-03-11T01:28:00.001-08:00

This screenshot of a Facebook status update has been doing the rounds on social media. During this doctor's strike, we have seen fake Facebook updates doing the rounds as propaganda wars raged on. So no telling its authenticity. Nonetheless, it is hard to ignore the pain and suffering that the satire balms: In another ill advised move,the government's bluff has been called out. Even if commonwealth rules do not allow movement of labor (eg doctors) whilst the host country is in the middle of an industrial dispute with that particular group of workers (ie doctors strike in our context); Kenyans have other ideas. And it is easy to see where the blame lies in their eyes.

Here is the full text of the Facebook Status Update:

The CoG is doing well to procure doctors from Tanzania. But if really there is something they should buy for us from Tanzania, it is a president.Hiyo ndiyo sisi wakenya hatuna kabisaa.. Seriously though, if Tanzanians ever considered doing human resource business with us, they will be impressed how cheap our leaders are.

If they give us Ali Kiba only for instance, we shall offer them the president and 44 governors. If God willing however, they accept to take Munya, Kabogo, and Mutua too, we shall not even demand Ali Kiba. We can take professor J for that whole package. Assuming they give us Diamond Platinumz, we shall offer them Sarah Serem, CS Mailu and Dennis Itumbi. If they can be courteous enough to give us that guy that sings bra bra bra sitaki kusikia, we shall sign a cba with them in which we shall export 30 MCAs and 26 MPs to them every month.

These exports will be irreversible and tax free. Yes, we are dying of drought and insecurity but we shall be just fine having Ali Kiba record songs from state house instead of what we have right now. I didn't mention the Deputy President, because we know if we put that one on sale, hell we shall have to sell the whole Rift Valley to bribe TZ to kindly accept our humble offering.

P/S- TZ doctors, please come with your leaders. It is hard out here.

PICTURES: Look At This Joke Of A Milk Dairy In Bungoma County Years After The Governor's Campaign Promise To Revive It In Within 100 Days

2017-03-09T15:23:00.002-08:00

You'll be hard pressed to find a Governor (then aspiring) whose announcement to seek elective office excited the people as that of a former District Officer who rose the ranks of civil service permanent secretary in the Ministry of Livestock & Fisheries.


Not only did Kenneth Makelo Lusaka pull the stops in a grand entry into Bungoma town; backed with his credentials in government, unlike the other candidates he had a plausible plan. A plan that among other development initiatives, promised the revival of Kitinda Dairies and Creamery.

Quite an irony it is that on that day as candidate Ken Lusaka made his way into Bungoma town along the Bungoma-Mumias road, his dancing troupe of supporters passed by Kitinda Dairies and Creameries just outside Bungoma town center.

Candidate Lusaka must have picked on the derelict milk processor given its symbolism: Unlocking its closed doors would herald a new dawn for the Mulembe people of Bungoma as standing there in its shame; Kitinda Dairies and Creameries reminded a proud people of a proud past where milk flowed, sugarcane paid and Webuye Pan Paper mills roared on.

My brothers in Bungoma must have felt: "If this is devolution, then lets do this"

But it's never that simple. I mean you can easily do with the painting and clearing of bushes and launching, but there are those small details that make the difference between fire the fuel and fire the destroyer. Things like HACCP

Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) is described by the U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a systemic approach in identifying, evaluating and controlling food safety hazards. The FDA defines food hazards as biological, physical or chemical agents that are reasonably likely to cause disease or imjuty in the absence of control.

HACCP is a PREVENTIVE approach to food safety. The images below have been trending on a popular Bungoma based Facebook group. They will leave you wondering if the Ken Lusaka led county government has done Kitinda Dairies and Creamery any justice.

Worse still, if the end result of such callousness comes in the form of a public health nightmare- as milk with the water, sugar, protein and minerals is a perfect medium for bacteria- it's potentially calamitous. That's why since 1908 we've understood why/how milk easily goes bad easily. That's why it's important to HACCP milk handling.

The Plastic Measuring Cups

The use of plastic in food handling has come under recent scrutiny with concerns of BPA (bisphenol A alters hormone balance in the body leading to diabetes, liver problems and reproductive problems in laboratory rat models ) contamination through leeching (bits of plastic transfered into our food).

PVC plastics also potentially expose one to phthalates which also alter hormone balance especially tetesterone and other organ damage in animal models. Phthalates lead to low sperm count and birth of baby boys with physical anomlaies( short distance between scrotum and anus.

We all would love to see 'non-carcinogenic' metallic measuring costing less than 100,000 each for Kitinda Dairies and Creameries in Kanduyi sub-county. But as we wait, it would be wise to heed the advice of authoritative health information website WebMD on reducing the consumption of Bisphenol A

Eat less canned food, and more frozen or fresh food. In addition to avoiding BPA, you'll also get more nutrients and less sodium -- both steps toward a healthier diet.
Breastfeed your baby, or use powdered formula instead of cans.
Avoid bottles and plastic containers that are made from polycarbonate (usually marked with a number 7 or the letters PC) and if you want to reduce exposure to phthalates, avoid polyvinyl chloride (marked with a number 3 or PVC).

Pasteurization

The Good: Looks like a local invention. Supporting cottage (juakali) indurstries.

The Ugly: Firewood= possibility of environmental degradation; besides, long term use of wood fuel through exposure to smoke could lead to chronic (meaning life long) lung disease known as Congestive Pulmonary Obstructive Disease (COPD). The worker (blacked out to protect identity) doesn't have protective clothing thus the possibility of even human hair finding it's way into the milk.

Milk Pasteurization in Kitinda Dairies and Creameries.

Cooling Plants?

Even a class six pupil knows that this is wrong on so many levels. Once again, the image is selectively blurred to protect identities

'Coolants' at Kitinda Dairies and Creamaries

Vihiga County: Tributes Flow In Honour Of Kenya's Founding Father Of Education Joseph Daniel Otiende

2017-03-08T06:16:00.001-08:00

Otiende estate in the larger Langata area of Nairobi City was named after Kenya's pioneer Education minister Joseph Daniel Otiende.We the people of Mulembe and the entire nation thank you for your service to the nation.

Have you heard of Joseph Otiende? If not, you need to read this book. He is a maker of history worth knowing pic.twitter.com/OTerDXbAil
— E. A. Edu Publishers (@EAPublishers) December 9, 2016

To the people of Kegoye, Vihiga County, we join you in morning the loss of Omwami .To the county of Vihiga, let us give Khuka a befitting send off. Let us tell our children about him and remind them to tell their children about Joseph D. Otiende.

BREAKING: Former Cabinet Minster Joseph Otiende dies aged 100 years in a Kisumu hospital. pic.twitter.com/w1OLwRRFm3
— The Standard Digital (@StandardKenya) March 8, 2017

Bonny Mtetezi from Ikolomani sent his condolences

I join friends & relatives in mourning Baluhyia elder Joseph D Otiende, 1963 Minister for Education who has died at 101 years. RIP kuka
— Boni Khalwale (@KBonimtetezi) March 8, 2017

We hope the good minister will prevail on his colleagues in the cabinet to honor this Kenyan Shujaa!

CS Dr Hassan Wario Arero sends condolences to the family of Kenya's 1st Minister for Education Joseph Otiende who passed on today, aged 100. pic.twitter.com/OBECMbtSJp
— Ministry of Sports (@moscakenya) March 8, 2017

Fenesi: Meet Busia's Favourite Fruit

2017-03-07T14:17:00.000-08:00

The pulpy banana-pineapple like flavored Jack fruit first strikes one as something fit for Cameron's Avatar, almost dinosaur-like, yet with a promise of abundant vigor and life in embodiment of the tropics

At first sight, meeting the Jack Fruit aka Fenesi in Swahili, one has to take another look. And another. And another. It just doesn’t settle well. My neck craned backwards as the flat of boredom on my face was replaced by amaze-wonder. The Jack fruit is thought to originate from the flora west of the salty waters of Bay of Bengal Indian ocean.

Here in Busia,it flourishes just north of the equator, east of the fresh waters of lake Victoria. Here, it seems like every homestead has several trees. In the street of Busia town invariably, there is always that congregation around a Fenesi vendor hacking away with a machete to reveal the sweet pulp. I am told that this Jack Fruit, the size of my head, is immature.

Kenyans On Twitter React To Kakamega 171 Billion Gold Find: Dirty Politics, The Humor , Fear Of Corruption and Dark History

2017-03-01T07:49:00.000-08:00

It can't get more Kenyan than this!Discovery of significant deposits of gold ought be a proud, serene moment for a country like Kenya with a nascent mining sector. Right? Well.....

UK firm Acacia Mining that has so far spent 3.1 billion Kenyan shillings ($ 29.5 million) prospecting for gold in Kakamega,Vihiga, Siaya and Kisumu has announced the discovery of PROMISING deposits in Liranda corridor in Kakamega.

The gold deposits estimated at 1.31 million ounces are of the highest quality (ever) so far in Africa but Acacia Mining has cautioned that we need at least 2 million ounces for the gold to be commercially viable.

The Kenyan Cabinet Secretary in charge of mining appears not to heed this advice (politics is about perception and with a general election in sight, the government would be super keen to gain undue mileage) values the Kakamega deposits at 171 billion. Even state agency Brand Kenya Board +Make it Kenya jumped in on it.

But for all the state's optimism, increasingly disenfranchised Kenyans took to their favorite platform: Twitter; to voice their concerns. In doing so, an anatomy of gold mining in Kakamega was drawn out. From the politics, the humor and the dark history of the infamous Ikolomani mines in Kakamega.

The humor:

I think i will go to Kakamega and start digging random places looking for gold.
Life is too hard
— Henrikh (@_Barrack__) February 13, 2017

the Baes couldn't be left behind

Lunje friends wsup! Anyone looking for a wife! UK firm discovers gold worth Sh171 billion in Kakamega https://t.co/pyAQx0r5sx
— Soshi OG (@daidey) February 28, 2017

The sad😢 History:

They did not discover! They mined. Gold was discovered in Kakamega long time ago! https://t.co/UggGa1dEQt
— Ronnie Vx (@ronniekib) February 28, 2017

Gold deposits discovered in Kakamega County...

So where did this Ikolomani name come from? My Mulembe peoples must have found it hard to pronounce "Gold Mines" and mulembenized it into Ikolomani

Remember Ikolomani means Goldmine...
💥💥💥
— GeorgeIsaiahShivekah (@isaiahmusindi) February 27, 2017

The Dark History: Young Lost Lives, Chronic Diseases, Poverty and Environmental Degradation:

Miserable lives of poor village gold diggers in Kakamega https://t.co/WfCswv2MhP pic.twitter.com/eR0sZWcAWy
— The Standard Digital (@StandardKenya) December 8, 2016

This is how Kibiri forest(kakamega forest) is being destroyed through gold mining and charcoal burning. pic.twitter.com/iDjUAIx1bL
— githinjiwamahiu (@githinjiwamahiu) November 28, 2016

The Politics:

Hahaha kwanza hii story ya Gold itafanya I run for Kakamega Governor . We can't trust some people in my village with our Gold @MCShifwoka 😁 https://t.co/mLNeKs4rAM
— Leon Lidigu (@LeonLidigu) February 28, 2017

It's said that in the 21st century, "Breaking News" is often old news. This twitter handle associated with Kenya's main opposition group Nasa (National Super Alliance) tweeted this way before Acacia Mining announcement of high value Kakamega deposits. It is not uncommon for businessmen to play politics especially in such high value tra

Gold mining in Kakamega, Keiyo Valley and across all the Nation will be our focus amongst the sectors in the mining industry
— TEAM NASA (@Team_CORD) December 17, 2016

Kakamega Assembly Environment Committee visits gold mining sites in County, asses status of mining @Senate_KE @KBonimtetezi pic.twitter.com/hj0N8ouCxD
— KAKAMEGA ASSEMBLY (@KakamegaBunge) February 3, 2017

Kakamega MCAs obtain orders to stop Tanzanian firm from mining gold https://t.co/BbZY4wV1cu pic.twitter.com/MOIFsHxP9s
— The Star, Kenya (@TheStarKenya) November 2, 2016

The Constant In Every Thing Kenyan: Corruption

Hio mambo ya gold Kakamega lazima corruption-in-chief aitishe kickback. Hawezi wacha wai-mine with a free-pass
— Nayvadius DeMun (@MasilaJnr) February 28, 2017

@KathureSasha 2 Years from now,headlines Kakamega 171 Billion gold scandle! i love this country.
— Seth Koko (@SethKoko2) February 28, 2017

@StandardKenya Quick @GovWOparanya ring fence @CountyKakamega and keep off invader from #Sugoi & his partner. #KakamegaGold
— Solomon Ambuku (@solo_ambuku) February 28, 2017

The Most Unlikely Of Butchery Names: Meet UEFA BUTCHERY

2017-02-22T04:00:00.000-08:00

UEFA BUTCHERY Kefinco, Kakamega town: Great works are performed not by strength but by perseverance.

This sign post advertising a butchery was sighted in the Western Kenya town Kakamega, that nests at the edge of one of the few remnants of the great Congo equatorial forest- Kakamega forest. The neighborhood is Kenfinco, just off the Kakamega- Webuye highway at the Kakamega Nakumatt Mega turn, a sprawling mass of concrete mostly inhabited by students of Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology.

Like any good businessman, the proprietor takes advantage of any marketing opportunity to gain market share.On this Champions League night, there is a price offer for all the prime cuts. In case you are wondering, "matumbo" is the African delicacy offal (especially when stewed with Munyu Msherekha) while "maini" is liver.

Post Update: This picture was taken circa 2013. The butchery might not still exist thanks to the natural rapid evolution of urban centers, more so here following the increased urbanization of Kakamega town in devolution era Kenya. The picture freezes a moment in time allowing for comparison with today. In light of this, what is the current price for a kilo of beef in your neighborhood?

PHOTO Of The Day:The Tale Of Nalongo Busia Uganda: The Story of Sex, Alcohol and Power Through The Eyes Of a Graffiti Artist

2017-02-21T05:06:00.000-08:00

Painting on one of steel door of the many entertainment spots at Nalongo. The soldiers represent the Ugandan state. In Nalongo, they are there to maintain order, but not the law. She of white eyes and mouth must represent the bevy of beauties on supply and the depths one can fall fraternizing. Of course, Nalongo is not the place to fall in love, but with at the right amount, you'll find some love.

Some time in the late nineties, a Kenyan hip hop group with a leaning on social consciousness in their music churned a hit song 'Pesa, Pombe, Siasa na Wanawake' . It was a lyrical tale of the four sisters: Money, Alcohol, Politics and Women.

Where are at these sisters reside (you might ask) ?Try Nalongo, at the Busia border side of Uganda . Everyone who's reveled there claims that it's the sin party capital of the region that banks Lake Victoria (that both Kenyans and Ugandans) call Samia. On the Busia point of the Kenya-Uganda border, the party never ends. Check out this video

Standard Five Pupil Chokes To Death On a Piece of Meat In Busia: Learn Simple Ways To Save A Life When Someone Chokes

2017-02-20T03:06:00.001-08:00

Dr. Henry Heimlich was an American chest surgeon who, dismayed at the high number of people who die from chocking, in 1974 developed an easy to learn maneuver to help save lives. St John's Ambulance in Kenya has campaigned on their Facebook page for introduction of first aid lessons in Kenya's educational curriculum. With such a move, the number people skilled in first aid would increase in the community and help avert meaningless deaths such as that of this Kisoko boy in Buisa county.

A mulembe family in Kisoko, Busia county is mourning the untimely, unfortunate yet preventable death of a standard pupil at Kisoko Primary School. On Saturday evening,18th February 2017, 14 year old Mark Obada was sent by the mother to the kitchen to boil some meat only to later emerge running from the kitchen in distress with a piece of meat stuck in his throat. His younger brother 12 year old Alfred Barasa reports that they tried to assist his chocking brother to no avail. Speaking later, the late Mark's distraught elder brother, Ignitius Barasa, expressed his shock

"I cannot believe that my brother has just died like that. When I was called from my house, I came immediately and found him lying on the ground already dead. Blood was coming out of his mouth and nose."

It indeed is devastating to lose such promise through preventable, needless death yet the easy to learn Heimlich's maneuver that does not require any special equipment can save lives. By the time of Dr. Henry Heimlich death in December 17th 2017, this medical technique had saved an estimated 100,000 lives from chocking .

As we embark on the process of overhauling the Kenyan education system towards one where skill learning will take precedence over mere cramming of facts; it is about time we took up St. John's Ambulance Kenya's call for first aid to be included in the curriculum.

What is the Heimlich Maneuver?

theguardian.com in its report on the death of Dr. Heimlich succinctly describes the life-saving maneuver for choking victims as:

"Rescuers using the procedure abruptly squeeze a victim’s abdomen, pushing in and above the navel with the fist to create a flow of air from the lungs. That flow of air then can push objects out of the windpipe and prevent suffocation.

Heimlich Maneuver first Aid for Choking baby

Heimlich Maneuver When The Choking victim is unconscious

Heimlich maneuver in child (Over 5 years)

Simplified Heimlich Maneuver In Infant (Less than 5 Years)

We condole with the family of the late Mark Obada. My his young soul rest in peace.

Additional Reporting: Busia County Media Center

Dismay At Kenyan Government Handling Of Biting Doctor's Strike, Sees Bungoma Blogger Ruthlessly Slay Infamous 36 Jubilee Bloggers

2017-02-18T06:52:00.000-08:00


Kenyan doctors have been on strike since December 5th, 2016. The Kenyan government has thrown everything at the doctors save for a solution. The doctors have fought hard for the implementation of the agreement between their union, KMPDU and the Ministry of Health Kenya, CBA 2013, that addresses health sector inefficiencies from issues of staffing of hospitals, equipping hospitals to training and remuneration of doctors. The doctors have been jailed, de-campaigned by government propagandists out to tarnish the profession. The result of all these has been Kenya's biggest public discourse on health care and corruption. It has not been pretty as it has been tainted by politics and ethnicity.

Kenyans continue to suffer indignity, disease and death as the public doctor's strike stretches towards 80 days. While those with the power, mandate and responsibility to solve the health crisis remain unerringly mum, ruling Jubilee mandarins fill the leadership vacuum by offer their solution to the crippling health crisis by doing what they do best: propaganda. Indeed when you have a only hammer as tool, every problem appears like a nail.

Jubilee propaganda blogger ill advised attack on the persona of doctors union officials such as the quickly unraveled fake Facebook post attack on secretary general, Dr Ouma Oluga; whilst the anger at the government's jailing of KMPDU officials is still fresh served only to ire the public. The jubilee government has been labeled a government of PR, hot air whilst failing spectacularly at the important stuff that credible government do like fight corruption and provide social services like health care.

The doctors strike has manged to showcase their ineptness if the reaction of this fearless lady blogger from Bungoma is anything to go by. Not only have they failed, but they have made the masses sick and tired. Over you Mr President.

Bungoma:Why This Helicopter Ride Made Everyone Mad

2017-02-07T23:18:00.001-08:00

Bungoma, Kenya
It is official Kenyans have a thing with helicopters. There is the famous case of the Bungoma James Bond who hitched a ride on a choppers landing skids almost plummeting to his death.

Then there is the recent case of the Meru man whose dandia of a politician's helicopter resulted in calls from the prominent politician's supporters for swifter stricter action from police in dealing in what they termed as an attempt at the politician's life.

Bungoma Governor : Ken Lusaka

On the other scale of the Kenyan Helicopter problem is the elite who roam the sky in these birds. It could be the case of a white male helicopter pilot of the high beating up a female cop in broad daylight 'for not doing a job': in reference to the steady build up of crowd of curious villagers around his boss's helicopter.

Or this recent helicopter ride in Bungoma over a distance that by road would take less than 10 minutes.

Bungoma residents are still irked by the decision of the county's number one to opt for a helicopter ride rather than start one of the air-conditioned fuel guzzlers at his disposal for a trip from Webuye to Bukembe market along the Kenya-Uganda highway.

With playful reference to the non-carcinogenic wheelbarrow scandal that refuses to go, Bungoma residents were heard lamenting at the wanton wastage of public funds. It's not simply because of the choice of a more expensive form of transport, helicopter over vehicle, it is the purpose and destination that had Bungoma residents mad. This was not a development tour so to say, it was a dash to a funeral.

Fight Against Insecurity Nabs Three In Emuhaya, Vihiga County

2017-02-01T02:37:00.000-08:00

Anyone who knows Vihiga county in Western Kenya will describe it as a quite unassuming locale. It is not exactly what you would describe as a backwater corner of Kenya, but it has a gentle spirit. The inhabitants her are true reflection of the spirit of mirembe (peace).

Francis Onguko Courtesy

If it is true that a society gets the leaders it deserves, given that a peoples' leaders are a reflection of the society they hail from, then the truism that people of Western Kenya are people of mulembe couldn't find a better home in Vihiga county.

None of Vihiga's leaders, now and before, can be labeled firebrand. Keeping this in mind, reports of a crime wave sweeping through Vihiga county these past few years come as an unpleasant surprise.

The Star newspaper on the 2nd of March, 2013, reports the then newly elected Vihiga Governor, incumbent Moses Akaranga, decrying insecurity in Vihiga county. In the recent past, the governor has been reported to still be lamenting insecurity in Vihiga county naming the dreaded 42 brothers as being responsible.

Following such media report, it appeared that the fight against insecurity in Vihiga County was a losing battle as evidenced by diverse reports of violent crime such as the sad story of a trader who was robbed then had him and his shop torched in Mudete market, Sabatia sub-county. However, residents of Vihiga can now have a sigh of relief following the latest developments.

Social media reports that three young men are being held following the discovery of goods worth thousands of shillings in Eluhobe in Emuhaya Sub-County of Vihiga county. The recovered goods are believed to be the lot from a spate of robberies affecting Ekaita, Esibuye ans Ematsuli sub-locations of Emuhaya sub-county.

Members of the public have been urged to come forward and help in identification of stolen goods and offer any information they might aid the investigations.

Vihiga Govonor Race Hots Up as Engineer Amadi's Road Works Make a Statement

2017-01-18T12:19:00.002-08:00

One of Vihiga's best kept secrets is the ambition of one Engineer Josphat Amadi. You only need to ask the local women groups what this son of mulembe has done for them. From generous harambee donations to building churches; his philanthropy spans across Vihiga county and is devoid of ubaguzi.

As residents of the borders of central maragoli and Lugaga-Wamuluma wards recently came to know, if Engineer gets wind of the suffering of the people, he is more than ready to chip in. Unconfirmed reports indicate that the good Engineer took it upon him to cover the nakedness of the county government of Rev Akaranga by footing the bill for road works improving Ivindizi-Womulalu-Igakala feeder road

We understand that Boda boda guys are ecstatic. We also understand that governor Akaranga and aspirants Otichillo- MP Emuhaya and Vihiga MP Yususf Chanzu, are a worried lot. Watch this space!

One Billion Budalangi Bridge 80% Complete

2017-01-17T13:48:00.001-08:00

Having hosted both the President and Deputy president in Busia, once a fierce critic turned ally Budalangi MP Ababu Namabwa must be hard pressed to explain his change of heart to the electorate. Offering Jubilee a landing ground in what is considered to be Cord territory is no easy task. But if social media reports from Busia County News are to be believed, then some respite

"Construction of Sigiri bridge in Budalangi on River Nzoia is 80% complete.The construction which started in 2016 will cost the national up to one billion shillings.The bridge will open up Bunyala south which has remained undeveloped for mamy years due to lack of a link with the north.Many people have also lost their life while crossing the perilous river using boats.President Uhuru Kenyatta toured the area on 7th September 2014 to console families of nine people who perished after their boat capsized while crossing the river a week earlier."

Street Food Vendors Cleared From Busia Streets

2014-03-12T04:10:00.001-07:00

Busia Town, Busia County, Kenya

The County Health and Sanitation department of Busia County, Western Kenya today conducted an impromptu swoop on street food vendors. Being a border town, street food is a common occurrence in Busia town as opportunity sighting businessmen seek to cash in on traders engaging in cross border trade.

However, citing violation of public health regulations such as the lack of health certification of these food handlers and the risk from water washed diseases as the street is not an ideal environment for food handling, the county officials in liaison with law enforcement agencies, took swift action to ensure public safety.

Scores of relatives and friends of the arrested could be seen rushing between the Busia county public health office and the Busia police station inquiring about the whereabouts of their loved ones. Our sources indicate that the arrested street food vendors will be arraigned and charged at the Busia Law Courts for violation of public health laws.

Busia Wife Batterer Saved From Angry Crowd By Police

2014-03-04T04:32:00.000-08:00

Busia County, Kenya

Residents of the Legio area of Busia border town in western Kenya were awoken from their early slumber by desperate screams of a woman. Screams that they knew of well. It had been the habit of this Bwana every night or so to make a punching bag of his wife and children.

According to our sources, this wife batterer was of a different shade as he wasn't a drunk and appeared to be sadistic individual, deriving pleasure from spilling the blood of his own kinsmen. On this night however, the residents couldn't have no more of that and decided to teach the man a lesson.

Eye witness accounts report that on reaching their humble abode, they found the battered woman sobbing in the dark, under the mercy of the elements as all her eve was exposed to the world. After sourcing a leso from the couples' neighbors to cover the poor woman's nakedness, the now mammoth crowd turned their attentions to the despicable man.

As fast as only a coward can be,the middle aged man had by now already locked himself inside their one roomed abode, taking their two young children hostage.There were reports that the woman's sister had been caught inside the man's self imposed prison as she had been first to the scene in a bid to rescue her sister from the jaws of death. Claims which our sources could not independently verify.

Armed with all manner of crude weapons, the crowd struggled with the metal door, rocks were thrown on the iron sheet roof, windows were smashed as talk circulated that the man had hidden himself under the bed. According to our sources, women in the crowd could be heard requesting the unruly young men to get done with the door so that they could deal with the man in a way that would teach all wife batterers in the area to desist from their primitive violence acts.

Luckily for the man, the metal held forte for just long enough to be saved from the crowd as Busia police arrived at the scene to calm the rising tensions and lead him to custody with the crowd baying his blood.Our sources inform us that the disappointment in the women's voice could be heard as some went as far as lamenting that their sharpened wives would go to waste as they had readied themselves for castration.

We would like to express our disgust at gender based violence and any other forms of violence including mob justice that the crowd wanted to mete on the wife batter. The efforts of Busia police are commendable. May justice be served. May the psychological, emotional and physical wounds of the victims heal.