Kwale Focus

Kwale Jamia Mosque Opened

noreply@blogger.com (Ali Kipapuro) — Tue, 09 Apr 2019 08:27:00 +0000

Kwale Governor Salim Mvurya on Monday led the official opening of Kwale Jamia Mosque alongside Sheikh Jasim Mohammed al Ainati from the Revival of Islamic Heritage Society from the State of Kuwait who represented the Kuwait Ambassador to Kenya.

Addressing Muslim believers who gathered to witness the opening ceremony of the largest mosque in Kwale County, Governor Mvurya assured that his government will work closely with the State of Kuwait and other sponsors devoted to the construction of mosques and other religious amenities in the county.

Kwale Jamia Mosque in Kwale Town

Mvurya stated that already 40 mosques have been built in Kwale County through donor funds from the state of Kuwait, and more than 80 mosques through the donor funds from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

He also urged Muslim believers in Kwale town and its environs to make use of the mosque in performing their daily prayers.

“This mosque is a gift to the people of Kwale County, so let’s make use of it by performing our daily prayers to Allah, and also let us pray for our donors,” he added.

The Kwale Jamia Mosque has three sections. The ground floor is for male believer to perform their prayers, first floor for female believers while the upper area is the madrassa section.

It also comprises of a modern ablution area, and four rental shops at the outside section. Funds collected from the rental shops will be used to cater for power bills and payment of staff taking care of the mosque.

Addressing the believers in the mosque, Sheikh Jasim Mohammed al Ainati assured Governor Mvurya of continued collaboration of the State of Kuwaiti and the County Government of Kwale.

“Through such partnership programs we have been able to give Muslim believers betters worshiping places in many parts of Kenya and Africa in general. I therefore urge you to use this mosque in performing your daily prayers to the Almighty,” Sheikh Jasim said.

Kwale Muslims inside the new Kwale Jamia Mosque. Photo: Ali Kipapuro

On his side Matuga Member of Parliament Kassim Sawa Tandaza also thanked the Revival of Islamic Heritage Society from the State of Kuwaiti for its projects in Kwale County.

Sheikh Jasim was accompanied by several representatives of the Revival of Islamic Heritage Society in Kenya including Sheikh Hassan Omar for Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya CIPK who is also the Imam of Liwatoni Mosque in Mombasa.

County Government of Kwale officials who were also present at the official opening of Kwale Jamia Mosque in County Executive Committee Members Bakari Hassan Sebe (Finance), Ramadhani Masudi Bungale (Social Services & Talent Management), Hemed Mwabudzo (Water Services and Infrastructure Development), Principal Administrative Secretary Chimvua Kombo, Msambweni Sub County Administrator Hamisi Mwandaro, Tsimba/Golini Ward Administrator Hamisi Kenya, Ukunda Ward Administrator Aziz Vumbi amongst others.

Earlier before the opening of the Kwale Jamia Mosque, Sheikh Jasim al Ainati paid a courtesy call to the Governor in his Kwale Office where they also discussed several issues on cooperation on development and religious projects in the county.

Kwale Residents Urged To Stop Burning Bushes

noreply@blogger.com (Ali Kipapuro) — Wed, 13 Mar 2019 09:08:00 +0000

Kwale County Executive Committee Member for Water Services and Infrastructure Development Hemed Mwabudzo has urged residents in the county to stop burning bushes following several incidences of bush fire that have razed down a number of households in Pongwe/Kikoneni ward in Lunga Lunga Sub-County.

Addressing Utsamba villagers on Tuesday where 27 individuals were rendered homeless after a fire incidence, Mr Mwabudzo asked the residents especially farmers to be more careful especially during this dry season. The fire razed down four houses on Monday.

Mzizima Village Unit Administrator Abdallah Mwatsuphiro at Utsamba village. Photo: Ali Kipapuro

Mr Mwabudzo who represented Governor Salim Mvurya and his Deputy Madam Fatuma Achani in donating foodstuffs and none food items to the affected families said the dry weather had made it more dangerous where wild fires can easily ignite.

“The county government is always out to help when such incidences occur, but we urge all people especially farmers to avoid burning bushes. Such incidences will not be reported if we embrace modern farming methods,” he said.

Among the items donated to the affected families are 9 mattresses, 10 bales of maize flour, two 90kg bags of beans, 5 bags of rice, 5 jericans of cooking oil, sufurias, cups, basins, spoons and plates.

The County Project Liaison Officer who is also the County Disaster Management Coordinator Joseph Thoya, Pongwe/Kikoneni Ward Administrator Juma Salim Mwaziro, Mzizima Village Unit Administrator Abdallah Mwatsuphiro among other county government officers accompanied Mr Mwabudzo in Utsamba.

A week ago, over 44 residents were left homeless after bush fire gutted down six houses in Kiwambale village and one house in Mshiu village, which are also in Pongwe/Kikoneni ward in Lunga Lunga Sub-County.

Kwale Residents Praise Elimu Ni Sasa Initiative

noreply@blogger.com (Ali Kipapuro) — Fri, 01 Mar 2019 10:19:00 +0000

Since the commencement of the ‘Elimu Ni Sasa Initiative’ in Kwale County by H.E Governor Salim Mvurya and his Deputy H.E Fatuma Achani, the county has made significant strides in the education sector.

To date the County Government of Kwale has constructed 310 modern Early Childhood Education Centers across the county, a move that has seen the rise of children enrollment in schools.

A modern ECDE Center in Kwale County. Photo: Ali Haji Kipapuro

Each ECDE Center constructed by the County Government of Kwale consists of two classrooms equipped with tables and chairs, an office, kitchen and a toilet block. They also have water storage facilities and playing equipment for the kids.

To further motivate the children who join these institutions, the County Government of Kwale also has a reliable feeding (uji) program in all county ECDE Centers.

Moses Mwadzine a resident of Kalalani Village Unit in Mwavumbo Ward praises the County Government of Kwale for this initiative.

According to him the program has been successful.

Mvurya Discusses Mwache Dam Project Progress

noreply@blogger.com (Ali Kipapuro) — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 14:46:00 +0000

Kwale Governor H.E Salim Mvurya and his Deputy H.E Fatuma Achani have held talks with World Bank mission and other stakeholders on the progress of the multi-billion Mwache Dam project.

The discussions held at the Governor’s office in Kwale mainly focused on various stakeholders' preparations in the project implementation process.

Governor Salim Mvurya and Deputy Fatuma Achani with the World Bank Mission. Photo: Ali Kipapuro

Governor Mvurya assured the World Bank mission that Kwale County Government is fully supporting this project aimed at changing the livelihoods of Kwale County residents.

"I urge all stakeholders involved to work together in the realisation of Mwache Dam project, through exchange of ideas, experiences and expertise," Mvurya said.

The County boss also assured that the County Government of Kwale is working closely with the national government in ensuring that issues of compensation and relocation are dealt with accordingly before the project commences.

The multi-billion Mwache Dam project is funded by World Bank through the national government.

Achani Campaigns To Fight Early Pregnancies

noreply@blogger.com (Ali Kipapuro) — Mon, 11 Feb 2019 08:52:00 +0000

Kwale Deputy Governor Ms Fatuma Achani has launched a campaign among women to fight early pregnancies in the county through a vigorous sensitisation programme.

Ms Achani said the programme will involve women in all the village units in Kwale County.

The Deputy Governor launched the campaign at the Methodist Church of Kenya hall at Kinango where she hosted the second Women Round Table workshop in Kwale County.

Kwale Deputy Governor Fatuma Achani in Kinango Sub County. Photo: Ali Kipapuro

The first workshop was held in Kinondo ward, Msambweni Sub-County.

The workshop sponsored by UN Women and the Council of Governors (COG) is a women initiative to sensitise them on socio-economic and political opportunities for the woman in society.

"From this gathering, I want you to go back to your respective village units, form committees and arrange programmes where we can visit all schools and talk to the pupils," she said.

She said teenage pregnancies had threatened the education of the girl child necessitating immediate mitigation measures.

"Some of the reasons for this evil is poverty, broken families, single parenting among others. Some of our girls lack even soap and other basics thereby becoming easy prey to men," she said.

She said her campaign will involve economically empowering the parents and girls, such as providing them with life basics.

The initiative comes amidst a national alarm over student pregnancies as manifested during the recent KCPE and KCSE examinations where several girls sat for their papers in maternity wards.

The Women Round Table initiative is being conducted by all female Deputy Governors across the country.

"When you are ready with the committees, inform me and we shall kick off the visits immediately. I am ready," she told the 200 women adding that village, ward and sub-county administrators will also be involved.

She said Governor Salim Mvurya's administration had given education first priority with Sh400 million annually going to bursaries for national school students supporting 3,800 students, more than 1,400 others in universities, more than 40,000 in county schools as well as paying Sh15,000 per polytechnic student.

Source: Kwale GPS

A Mwereni Farmer Success Story

noreply@blogger.com (Ali Kipapuro) — Mon, 11 Feb 2019 08:29:00 +0000

In 2014 the County Government of Kwale under the leadership of Governor Salim Mvurya and his Deputy Fatuma Achani initiated the County Integrated Food Security Program aimed at changing peoples lives and making Kwale County food secure.

Through this program the County Government bought two tractors for each ward and also started distributing hybrid cows, goats and seeds to farmers.

In Mwereni ward Lunga Lunga Sub-County Robert Joho Kaziyahindi is one of the beneficiaries who received a hybrid bull from the county government in 2014.

Kaziyahindi recounts how this program has changed his life. “I used the bull to crossbreed my local breed cattle,” he says.

Joho Kaziyahindi points at some of his crossbreed cows. Photo: Ali Kipapuro

Today, he sells over 40 litres of milk per day compared to around 10 to 20 litres he used to sell before.

“I sell my milk to local markets and use the profit I make to cater for my basic needs,” he further explains.

Kaziyahindi who now owns over 200 heads of hybrid cattle also expects to sell over 70 bulls by the end of this year, whereby the market price of a bull is between 70,000 and 100,000 Kenyan shillings.

Before, he used to sell the local breed bulls at around 30,000 shillings.

Kaziyahindi's bulls fighting. Photo: Ali Kipapuro

“Through the County Integrated Food Security Program, Governor Salim Mvurya and his Deputy Fatuma Achani have helped many farmers in Kwale County. Some of us got hybrid cattle, other received seedlings while fishermen benefited from boats and fishing gears,” Kaziyahindi happily explains.

Kaziyahindi has used his livestock project to build a rental house in Likoni Mombasa County, which earns him a remarkable sum each month. He has also paid secondary school fees for his three children.

“Currently I am putting up a residential house in Mwereni at an expected cost of two million Kenyan shillings, a project which is also funded by this project,” he says.

Though Kaziyahindi and other farmers in Mwereni ward face similar challenges such as water scarcity, he hopes that those challenges will be solved once and for all.

Source: Catherine Nyokabi

Kwale County Attracts Multi-Billion Investments

noreply@blogger.com (Ali Kipapuro) — Fri, 10 Aug 2018 13:50:00 +0000

In a bid to realize the big four agendas of growing the manufacturing sector, increasing food security, providing universal healthcare and affordable housing, the County Government of Kwale has pledged to work closely with investors and other development partners.

Already, multi-billion investment projects have been started in various parts of the county.

Addressing Kwale residents in Samburu during the ground breaking ceremony of Devki Steel Mill Limited on August 7^th 2018, Kwale Governor Salim Mvurya assured investors of good working environment to ensure their projects are fully implemented.

Kwale Governor Salim Mvurya (L) with Trade, Industry and Cooperatives CS Peter Munya. Photo: Ali Kipapuro

He added that once the 500 billion Kenyan shillings project is complete, it will serve the steel demands of many African countries.

“As a government we will work closely with the management of Devki Steel Mills to ensure this project benefits the people of Kwale County.” Mvurya assured.

Mvurya also stated that in the 2018/2019 financial year, the County Government of Kwale has allocated funds in its budget to facilitate the construction of a fruit processing plant in Shimba Hills, Kubo South Ward - Matuga Sub County.

The project scheduled to commence very soon is among the Kwale County’s top investments aimed at ensuring food security.

“On matters of food security we have partnered with the National Government and other stakeholders in the construction of a 279 million Kenyan shillings dam at Nyalani in Kinango Sub County. The County Government is also planning to construct four more big dams in the county.” Mvurya said.

CEC Bungale commissioning Asante Capital EPZ at Mvindeni. Photo: Ali Kipapuro

On Thursday August 9^th 2018, Acting Kwale County Executive Committee Member for Tourism and Enterprise Development who is also the County Executive Committee Member for Social Services and Talent Management Ramadhani Masudi Bungale on behalf of Governor Mvurya officially opened Asante Capital EPZ at Mvindeni in Ukunda, a new investment in the county.

The Asante Capital Export Processing Zone is a factory venturing in veneer and briquettes production.

Bungale reiterated that apart from being an attractive tourist destination, Kwale County is also among the best places in Kenya to invest.

“Kwale is very ready for investments, and the County Government has put in place policies and legislations that attract investors.” He said.

He also commended the County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP) for identifying the key sectors that are potential for economic growth.

However he urged the residents of Kwale County especially the youth and women to make use of the opportunity provided by Asante Capital EPZ as a motivation to engage in commercial tree planting.

“When we give Asante Capital EPZ enough raw materials, they will definitely put up a value addition plant here in Kwale, and in turn many people will benefit from this investment.” He added.

On her side, Kwale County Executive Committee Member for Environment and Natural Resources Management Saumu Beja Mahaja who commended Asante Capital EPZ for their investment urged Kwale County residents to conserve their environment by planting more trees in their lands.

“Trees are life, and are a good source of income. So let plant them.” Saumu stated.

Speaking on infrastructural development in the county, the Executive Committee Member for Water Services, Roads and Public Works Hemed Mwabudzo assured investors that the County Government is committed to improving infrastructure systems in the entire county.

However he requested all investors in Kwale County to work hand in hand with other stakeholders and the residents to ensure that water catchment areas are preserved.

“Water is a useful resource and therefore I urge Asante Capital EPZ and other investors to work closely with respective County Departments and the Kenya Forestry Services to ensure that our water catchment areas are preserved.” Mwabudzo said.

According to Asante Capital EPZ General Manager David Okello, the factory has over 300 acres of eucalyptus plantations in Majoreni, Lunga Lunga, Mchinjirini and Majengo Mapya areas. These trees can facilitate the operations of the factory for the next five years.

“Over 90 percent of our employees are locals from Kwale County.” Okello further explained.

Another investment project thet was recently started in Kwale County is a 90 million Kenyan shillings Business Park in Kinondo Ward that will encompass the construction of a cotton ginnery aimed at improving cotton farming, ginning and garment production in Kenya.

The project that funded by Base Titanium Company in partnership with the County Government of Kwale and the National Government will directly benefit the Kwale County farmers who are members of Pamba Viazi (PAVI) Cooperative.

The project is expected to be operational by February 2019.

Kwale Residents Urged To Join SACCOs

noreply@blogger.com (Ali Kipapuro) — Sat, 07 Jul 2018 13:23:00 +0000

Kwale County Executive Committee Member for Social Services and Talent Management who is also the Acting County Executive Committee Member for Tourism and Enterprise Development Ramadhan Masudi Bungale has today led the county in marking the International Day of Cooperatives at a function held at Mvindeni in Msambweni Sub County.

Addressing members of different Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies from the county who gathered to mark this year’s celebrations, Mr. Bungale said the County Government of Kwale is implementing a model to ensure all SACCOs in the county flourish.

“As a County Government, we are implementing a cooperatives model that will ensure all Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies in Kwale County are self-dependant,” Bungale explained.

He has further explained that the County Government of Kwale has employed Cooperative Officers in each Sub County to ensure that the cooperative movement in the county is successful.

“Very soon the County Government of Kwale will employ Cooperative Auditors who will make sure that Cooperative Societies are transparent and accountable in their management systems and book keeping,” He added.

However the CEC member challenged all active SACCOs in Kwale County to position themselves in the county government’s agenda, for them to benefit from the county’s investments plans geared at realizing the Big Four development agendas.

On his side, Kwale County Executive Committee Member for Finance Bakari Hassan Sebe who was also present at the event urged residents of Kwale County to join the cooperative movement saying that savings and credit cooperative societies are a good way of saving for future investments.

“Saving and Credit Cooperative Societies are a key driver in the growth of the national economy, and without them the Kenyan economy could not have reached where it is today,” Sebe explained.

The event begun with a procession of members drawn from various Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies at Kona Ya Musa in Ukunda to Mvindeni where the celebrations have been held.

The theme for the 2018 International Day of Cooperatives is “Sustainable Consumption and Production of Goods and Services” which creates an opportunity for cooperatives to show how they run successful businesses whilst respecting our natural environment and the resources it offers.

The International Day of Cooperative is an annual event celebrated on the first Saturday of the month of July with an aim of creating awareness on the cooperative movement and highlighting its contributions to the society.

Support People With Disabilities - Achani Advises

noreply@blogger.com (Ali Kipapuro) — Thu, 05 Jul 2018 14:00:00 +0000

Kwale Deputy Governor HE Fatuma Achani earlier today graced an assessment event on children with disabilities at Kids Care Center-Mshiu in Lunga Lunga Sub County.

This assessment event was geared at gathering information on Yes We Can, a project started in December 2017 by KidsCare Kenya with an aim of improving the livelihoods of children with mental and/or physical disabilities in Lunga Lunga Sub County.

Addressing parents present at the event, Achani assured that the County Government of Kwale will continue supporting people living with disabilities in the county, and all projects aimed at benefiting them.

The Deputy Governor has also asked parents living with children with disabilities not to hide their children, but take them to special schools.

At the same time the Deputy Governor emphasized that children/people living with disabilities have equal rights as others, and they should be given the opportunity to realize their goals in life.

She has also called upon all people living with disabilities to form development groups for them to access development funds from the county and national governments.

Oh his side Kwale County Executive Committee Member for Social Services and Talent Management Mr. Ramadhan Masudi Bungale said his department is committed to working together with stakeholders in ensuring that people living with disabilities get the required support.

He has also asked the community in Kwale County to avoid stigmatizing people living with disabilities, and ensure these people get their basic human rights.

The Yes We Can Assessment event mainly focused on gathering information about the conditions of children with disabilities, and asses the cause of their disabilities and how best they can be helped in terms of psychological well-being, health, and better living conditions.

Through the Yes We Can project by KidSCare Kenya has helped over 50 children living with disabilities together with their caregivers, and is planning to expand the project to reach more children and families.

Governor Mvurya Receives Cuban Doctors

noreply@blogger.com (Ali Kipapuro) — Wed, 04 Jul 2018 10:46:00 +0000

Kwale Governor Salim Mvurya has earlier this morning officially received two Cuban doctors who will be working in the county for the next two years. The two specialists are among 100 Cuban medics contracted to work in Kenya in an exchange programme with their Kenyan counterparts under the Kenya-Cuba Health Cooperation framework.

In his statement after welcoming the medics to Kwale County, Governor Mvurya assured them of getting full support from the County Government during their term of service in Kwale.

“As a leadership, we will give you all the support needed and we expect to work with you very closely. So you are welcome to share ideas with our specialists here in Kwale,” Mvurya explained.

At the same time the Governor expressed confidence that Kwale County will benefit a lot from the two specialists from Cuba.

“Cuba has been very successful in community health, and therefore as a government we are looking forward to learning a lot from your experiences so that we can also improve our healthcare services here in Kwale,” He stated.

On her part Kwale Deputy Governor Fatuma Achani who was also present wished the two specialists from Cuba all the best as they serve the people of Kwale County.

“I am very happy that we have received two female specialists here in Kwale, and we are hoping that by the end of their two years service our health sector will have also grown as a county,” She stated.

The two are an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) specialist who will be based in Msambweni Referral Hospital, and a Family Doctor who will be serving in one of the public hospitals in the county.

They have also expressed their sincere gratitude for getting the opportunity to work in Kenya and especially in Kwale County.

“We are very grateful and happy to stay here in Kwale and we are going to work hard and cooperate with the Kenyan specialists to improve the health services and we are going to exchange knowledge in the next two years of our stay,” said Dr. Aderana Ramirez.

Their arrival comes at a time when the County Government of Kwale is adopting a Universal Healthcare system.

Governor Mvurya Approves FY 2018/19 Budget

noreply@blogger.com (Ali Kipapuro) — Sat, 30 Jun 2018 10:22:00 +0000

Kwale Governor Salim Mvurya has today approved the county’s budget for the financial year 2018/19 passed earlier this week by the County Assembly. The budget which stands at 12.2 billion Kenyan shillings is the first county’s budget under Governor Mvurya’s administration since he was re-elected into office in the August 2017 polls.

The county’s development expenditure has been allocated 7.47 billion Kenyan shillings which stands at 61.1% of the total budget, while the recurrent expenditure has been allocated 4.75 billion Kenyan shillings which translated to 38.9% of the budget. Health, education, infrastructure and water sectors which fall under the national big four agendas have been give a priority in this budget. Three billion Kenyan shillings has been set aside for health sector projects, 2 billion Kenyan shillings for the education sector, and 1.8 billion for water projects while infrastructure received 1.2 billion Kenyan shillings.

In his statement after signing the budget document in his Kwale office, Governor Mvurya stated that in implementing this year’s budget, the County Government of Kwale has also set aside funds for long term development projects that will grow the county’s economy and enhance living standards of the people.

Among the key flagship projects which the County Government Kwale has set funds for in its budget is the construction of a fruit processing plant in Shimba Hills - Kubo South (Matuga Sub County), setting up an Early Childhood Development Education College at Banga in Kinango Sub County, and the construction of a sports stadium in Kwale town.

“We also have a project to upgrade urban areas through low volume tarmacking of roads, and we have already identified key roads that will be in that program”, explained the Governor.

“This budget will be implemented in an integrated manner. So I therefore urge the people of Kwale County to participate in implementation, monitoring and evaluation of all the projects”,

Governor Mvurya also has urged all County Government Kwale officers in charge to implement the 2018/19 projects with diligence in order to ensure that all resources allocated are not misused.

Kwale Kicks Off Tree Planting Exercise

noreply@blogger.com (Ali Kipapuro) — Thu, 10 May 2018 05:22:00 +0000

A major tree planting exercise has kicked off in Kwale County targeting to plant over 53,000 trees. A total of 4,000 trees were planted at Nyalani Dam in Kinango sub-county at the onset of the programme on Monday, May 7^th. Governor Salim Mvurya will join the team on May 12^th at Mpirani Primary School, Kasemeni where he is expected to lead a team of leaders to plant hundreds of trees.

The tree planting initiative is a national drive to bring the country’s dwindling tree cover to 10 per cent.

Mr Seif Mohamed (R) planting a tree at Nyalani. / Photo: Amos Mrabu

Speaking at the Nyalani Dam, Acting County Forest Cordinator Seif Mohamed said the exercise formed part of the county strategy to conserve the eco-system and mitigate effects of adverse climate.

“This exercise is also important to the lives of the people because trees are known to improve the environment making it more habitable,” said Mr Seif. “If we have more planted forests on the open fields, we will be assured of cool and friendly climate conditions thus mitigate the dry seasons we experience annually," Mr Seif said.

Kinango Sub- county administrator Benedict Kuttoh said that Governor Mvurya fully supports the programme which will go a long way in conserving water catchment areas and drive out hunger in the county.

“The Governor will personally take part in the exercise at Mpirani Primary School in Kasemeni ward on Saturday 12th May 2018,” said Mr Kuttoh. Mr Kuttoh added, “Governor Mvurya wants the Kwale County leaders and community to join hands and grow these plants, not just plant them. We must take care and protect them in order to able to conserve all water catchment areas,” said Kuttoh. The exercise is expected to run for 6 days.

Kenya Red Cross Society Kwale branch coordinator Mr Mohammed Mwaenzi supported the tree planting program saying it will reduce the effects of global warming caused by excessive carbon emissions. Mr Mwaenzi also called upon residents of Kwale County to take care of the trees planted in the exercise.

"I urge you all to be part of this initiative, and be on the forefront of protecting the trees," he said.

Nyalani community members during the planting trees exercise. / Photo Amos Mrabu.

At Nyalani Dam, 4,000 Mibambakofi (Afzelia equisetifolia) trees were planted.

In the course of the six days, the sub counties of Lunga Lunga, Matuga and Msambweni will also undertake the exercise. In Lunga Lunga, the trees will be planted at Kiruku Hill and Dzombo Forest, in Msambweni sub-county, trees will be planted at Lake Mwangaraba and River Mkurumudzi while in Matuga sub-county the exercise will take place at Tsaka Vuga and Vinuni damp site.

Each sub-county is targeting to plant approximately 22,500 trees.

MacKinnon Road Farmers Get Hybrid Beef Breeds

noreply@blogger.com (Ali Kipapuro) — Wed, 28 Mar 2018 15:31:00 +0000

Kwale Governor Salim Mvurya and his Deputy Governor Fatuma Achani today distributed beef cattle breeds in Taru, MacKinnon Road Ward and meat goats breeds in Samburu/Chengoni Ward in a countywide agricultural empowerment drive aimed at ensuring food security.

Each ward is set to receive 20 bulls, and a total of 650 goats in all the four Kwale Sub Counties (Kinango, Lunga Lunga, Msambweni and Matuga), which are to be crossed with the local breeds to boost their productivity.

During the meeting at Taru and Samburu-Chengoni, the Governor warned beneficiaries against selling the cattle and goats breeds, saying such a move is counter-productive and will roll back the gains already made by the County government.

Kwale Governor Salim Mvurya talking to farmers in Taru, MacKinnon Road Ward. / Photo: Kwale GPS

“I want to put on notice those beneficiaries who are already looking for market to sell these cattle and goats breeds. Please take good care of these animals for posterity. When crossed, the new generation of animals will be better and will give you higher market returns,” said Governor Mvurya.

His sentiments were echoed by Deputy Governor Fatuma Achani, who urged those who had benefited from the cattle breeds initiative to help in ‘cross-breeding’ them with their neighbors.

“These cattle and goats breeds are not enough for everyone but what would you really lose if your bull crossed with the herd of your neighbor?,” quipped the Deputy Governor.

At the same time the Governor urged residents to join hands and put their political differences to rest, saying much will be achieved when the people of Kwale work towards a common goal.

“President Uhuru Kenyatta and honorable Raila Odinga came together to unite Kenyans for the sake of prosperity for the nation. Let us also come together by putting our political affiliations aside to develop this great county of Kwale,” he said.

Source: Kwale GPS

Kwale Rolls Out Second Phase of Hybrid Cattle Distribution

noreply@blogger.com (Ali Kipapuro) — Sat, 24 Mar 2018 14:55:00 +0000

Twenty farmers in Lunga Lunga Sub County, Vanga ward have a reason to smile receiving 20 hybrid bulls to crossbreed with local species to improve their stock.

The bulls were bought and supplied by the County Government, and Kwale Governor Salim Mvurya and his Deputy Fatuma Achani presided over the colorful ceremony of distributing the bulls to the joyful farmers at the sub-county office grounds in Lunga Lunga.

Governor Mvurya and Deputy Fatuma Achani giving out hybrid cattle to Vanga farmers. Photo: Ali Kipapuro

A beneficiary Millicent Mwikali Muteti said the development by Governor Mvurya’s administration had streamed to the residents in phases.

“First it was the county bursary programme where I benefited. My child is in Form Two in a national school and receives 100 per cent bursary. I later benefited from a meat goats programme, then certified seeds and now beef cattle. We have been promised dairy cattle in about a month time. This is real life-changing development,” she said.

Among the beneficiaries included Perani Village Unit residents Joshua Kisilu, Chizama Ngoka, Mary Syombua, Mutisya Mbaluka and Chirunga Matembo.

Other beneficiaries from Sega, Kiwegu and Vanga village units were Joseph Mbithi, Saumu Chizi Hamisi, Nyawa Zuma, Daniel Kimeu, Omar Hamisi Gaone, Sammy Charles, Mangale Tsuma, Juma Njama, Kaunda Paul, Mariam Chaka, Jackline Nyawa, Majaliwa Mrisa Nyondo, Abdalla Omar Famau and Francis Mwangi Njuguna.

The actual villages where the bulls will be rared are Tsole, Uwanja wa Ndege, Kidziweni, Mwanamamba, Kidembe, Godo, Mombasa Ndogo, Jua Kali, Mkomani, Makwenyeni, Mwamose A, Kiwegu A, Kiwegu C, Bumbuna A, Matoroni A, Dziriphe, Tsuini B, Jego and Ngathini Center.

Governor Mvurya urged the farmers to take care of the bulls in order to benefit from the programme.

“These are huge bulls. Take good care of them to help from the crossbreed so that you get cows of better grade and quality that can fetch you good money. That is how we develop. Kwale County should go ahead and not remain static,” said the Governor.

Vanga Ward farmers after receiving a bull / Photo: Ali Kipapuro.

“We have been together in the first term and now we are in the second term. Kwale County has gained popularity all over because we have a programme to change this county through educating our children to make sure nobody will ever laugh at us by being illiterate. At the moment we have about 2,000 children in universities from Kwale County whom we pay fees for, 100 per cent. We have other 3,500 in national schools whom we also pay 100 per cent fees, added the Governor.

He said his agenda is that after 10 years of his tenure, Kwale County should have local experts in various fields who will be available for the entire country and who will push the county’s development agenda.

He said he was happy with the county residents because they had understood his agenda “and where I want to take this county”.

On politics, Governor Mvurya said the county, like the nation, know who will succeed the incumbent and that it was not an issue to gamble about.

“We are not gambling. At the national level, we know it’s William Ruto who will succeed President Uhuru Kenyatta and here in Kwale, it’s my Deputy Fatuma Achani with whom I have worked together and knows the art of development. Do you want to gamble? And the crowd answered, “No”.

He cautioned them against listening to people campaigning for the seat of governor who have to vision.

“We are prepared and what remains is to pray about our agenda. We don’t prevent others but let them prepare on their own but as for us, we are prepared and ready,” he said.

A family taking home their hybrid bull. / Photo Ali Kipapuro.

Ms Achani said Kwale County was in safe hands under Governor Mvurya’s leadership adding that those opposing the Governor have an ill agenda for the people.

She urged the residents to focus on development alone and not engage or entertain leaders who only come with empty rhetoric.

The Governor and Deputy will for two weeks make extensive tours in all wards and village units in the four sub-counties of Kinango, Matuga, Msambweni and Lunga Lunga to distribute hundreds of bulls, dairy cattle and meat goats to hundreds of farmers.

Last week, the Governor and Deputy launched a seeds distribution programme at Mvindeni in Ukunda where thousands of farmers will benefit during this rainy season.

Source: Daniel Nyassy - Kwale GPS

Governor Mvurya Calls For Unity

noreply@blogger.com (Ali Kipapuro) — Sat, 17 Mar 2018 15:37:00 +0000

Kwale Governor Salim Mvurya has urged leaders from the Coastal region to shun political divisions and work together to achieve the region’s development agenda.

Addressing a public rally at Jomo Kenyatta Primary School grounds in Msambweni Sub County, Governor Mvurya praised the move by opposition leader Raila Amollo Odinga to work together with the Jubilee government, and asked other leaders to follow suit.

Governor Mvurya reminded that Kenya has to move forward, and leaders should not let their political affiliations derail development efforts by the government.

Governor Mvurya at Jomo Kenyatta Primary School Grounds. / Photo: Ali Kipapuro

He stated that the County Government of Kwale is planning to implement a universal health care system to ensure its residents get better health care services, saying that already Msambweni Referral Hospital has an operational modern Intensive Care Unit (ICU), a functional CT Scan machine and a Renal Unit all with equipment worth more than 800 million shillings.

Mvurya also applauded the joint efforts by the County Government of Kwale and the National Government to improve infrastructure system in the county, assuring Kwale residents that this will fast track the growth of the county’s economy.

Among the projects he mentioned are the tarmacking of Samburu-Kinango-Kwale road, Lunga Lunga – Vanga road, expansion of the Ukunda Airstrip and the Mwache Dam Project.

“As leaders we have no doubt with the work done by the Jubilee government. We however urge those contracted to implement these development projects to complete them in time.” Governor Mvurya explained.

At the same time he applauded President Uhuru Kenyatta for recognizing Kwale County in his recent appointment of top government officials where the County got two Principal Secretary slots where Safina Tsungu Kwekwe was appointed Principal Secretary for Gender and Prof. Hamadi Boga Principal Secretary for Agriculture and Research.

On her part, Kwale Deputy Governor Fatuma Achani stressed that the leadership of Kwale County will not allow investors to oppress the residents of this county and asked the national government to collaborate with the county government in solving rising land issues citing the Vidziyani land dispute as an example.

Kwale Deputy Governor Fatuma Achani. Photo: Ali Kipapuro

Governor Mvurya, his Deputy Fatuma Achani, Senator Issa Boy, Msambweni MP Suleiman Dori, Lunga Lunga MP Khatib Mwashetani, Kinango MP Benjamin Tayari and several other leaders from the Coast had accompanied Deputy President William Ruto who was in Msambweni to officially commission the Milalani-Mivumoni-Kilulu road project and later handed over a school bus to Kingwede Girls Secondary School.

Kingwede Girls Secondary School Bus. / Photo: Ali Kipapuro.

Bungale calls for women empowerment

noreply@blogger.com (Ali Kipapuro) — Fri, 09 Mar 2018 08:45:00 +0000

Kwale County Executive Committee Member for Social Services and Talent Management Ramadhani Masudi Bungale has rooted for women and youth empowerment in the county.

Addressing residents when he presided over the county celebrations of the International Women’s Day in Kinango town on March 8^th, Bungale said women have power to bring change in the society, calling upon Kwale county leadership to unite in the movement for women’s rights, equality and justice.

Kwale CEC Member Ramadhani Masudi Bungale in Kinango.

At the same time the County Executive Committee Member emphasized on the commitment of the County Government of Kwale to ensure equal representation in governance and in employment.

Bungale also stressed on the need to strengthen female entrepreneurship in the county as a way of creating a sustainable business society.

He has however urged women to unite and form women networks at ward levels, and seek relevant information on county projects, employment opportunities and services offered by the county government.

On education matters, Bungale emphasized on the need of Kwale parents to educate the girl child as a way of empowering the society, stating that already the county government has a unique and exemplary bursary program where each ward gets 400 million shillings annually. Through this program the county government is also giving a full sponsorship to students in National Schools.

He also said that the county's social services and enterprise development departments have set aside funds to facilitate loans and credits to the youth and businessmen and women of Kwale County.

Kwale CEC Member Ramadhani Masudi Bungale with County Women Representative Zuleikha Juma Hassan

On her part, Kwale County Women Representative Zuleikha Juma Hassan asked Kwale county leaders to unite and work together in the fulfillment of the county’s development agenda.

Zuleikha also promised to work closely with Kwale women from grassroots level as a way of empowering them, saying women have a great potential in the realization of a developed society.

She also called upon Kwale residents to ensure the youth especially the girl child is educated.

Her sentiments were echoed by Kwale County Maendeleo Ya Wanawake chairperson Amina Musau who reiterated that Kwale women have made great strides in education, leadership and in development.

Musau said that though many women are faced with challenges, there is need for women to come together in fighting them.

She also explained that Maendeleo Ya Wanawake organization shall work together with the leadership of Kwale County and other stakeholders in the efforts of empowering women in the county.

This year’s International Women’s Day comes as gender inequality is still rife in the society. Global statistics show that only one in four parliamentarians worldwide are women. If present trends continue with no action, it will take the world to 2086 before the gender pay gap is closed.

The International Women’s Day is an opportunity to stand in solidarity with all those fearless women standing up for gender equality, and spotlight those who often pass unnoticed.

This year’s theme was “Press For Progress”.

Kibuyuni seaweed farming changing lives

noreply@blogger.com (Ali Kipapuro) — Wed, 07 Mar 2018 14:14:00 +0000

It is estimated that Kenya earns around 2.5 billion dollars annually from its ocean resources, a positive indication that there can be a potential growth of the country’s GDP through the embrace of Blue Economy.

At Kibuyuni village in Kwale County, a group of around 50 members is already making fortunes from seaweed farming, a project that has improved the livelihoods of many families in the area.

According to Fatuma Mohamed the chairperson of Kibuyuni Seaweed Farmers Group, this project started back in 2010 after a research done by Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KEMFRI) between 2001 and 2002 on the decline of artisanal fish catches.

Fatuma says that the research results showed that a certain species of seaweed spinosium (Eucheuma Denticalatam) that could be grown at the area.

Fatuma Mohamed second right and other members of Kibuyuni Seaweed Famers Group. / Photo: Ali Kipapuro

In 2011 Kibuyuni Seaweed Farmers who by then were 27 in number got funding from PACT-Kenya an Non Governmental Organization to enhance their project. Each member had a six block farm with a capacity of 300 seaweed planting ropes. Today Kibuyuni Seaweed Farmers grow two species of seaweed which are the spinosium (Eucheuma Denticalatam) and Cottonii (Kappaphycus Alvarezii). The production cycle of these seaweed species is between 30-45 days here in Kibuyuni.

In 2014 the seaweed farming project expanded to 50 farmers through another funding from Kenya Coastal Development Programme (KCDP). In 2015 the farmers harvested 41.5 tonnes of seaweed making 1,277,490 Kenyan shillings after selling their harvest to a seaweed dealer from Belgium.

Though seaweed has been identified as a good prospect for social and economical development in the area, Fatuma explains that after harvesting farmers dry the product though not through direct sunlight. In 2016, Kibuyuni Seaweed Farmers got funding from Food and Agriculture Organization FAO which constructed a drying shed for them. She also says that FAO trained them on value addition and today they used the seaweed they grow to make soaps, lotions, cookies, cakes, shampoos, juices and jam which they sell to local markets.

Kibuyuni seaweed drying shed funded by FAO. / Photo: Neema Mwachome

In the 2016/17 financial year, the County Government of Kwale through the department of Trade and Cooperative Development constructed a Seaweed Collection Center here in Kibuyuni, a project which has benefited the seaweed farmers who are now storing their product in a safe place. Through this project the County Government of Kwale is encouraging the growth of the county’s economy through the Blue Economy initiative. Before this project, the farmers incurred losses as they used to store the seaweed they harvested in their houses. During rain seasons the product lost its value due to poor conditions of some of their houses.

Fatuma says that from their earning Kibuyuni Seaweed Farmers invested in table banking and merry go round initiatives.

VALUE ADDITION:

When processing their products, the Kibuyuni Seaweed Farmers Group members have to pass the seaweed through various stages in their Collection Center. First the seaweed is put inside a Hot Air Electric Drier several times until its completely dry. After this stage, the seaweed is then take to a Pulverizing Machine which chops it into sizable portions which are collected in specific buckets to the next stage.

Some of the machines used to process seaweed products by Kibuyuni Seaweed Farmers Group. / Photo Ali Kipapuro

From the Pulverizing Machine, the seaweed chops are the take to the third stage which is the Pelletizing Machine which make the seaweed into pellets which are in turn collected and take to Disk Milling Machine which grinds them. The seaweed powder is then taken to a Siftering Machine which sifts the finest powder to be taken to the next processing stage.

After siftering, the seaweed powder is ready for making soaps and shampoos. Here it is fed into a Portable Stirrer where it is mixed with the required amount of coloring, oil, and fragrance at a set temperature. The jelly is then collected in specific buckets a kept to cool. Later this collection is put into the last machine known as the Soap Plodder which performs a process known as the soap extrusion process.

Bar soaps made from seaweed. / Photo: Ali Kipapuro.

BENEFITS:

According to Fatuma Mohammed who is the chairperson of Kibuyuni Seaweed Farmers, seaweed also has medicinal values. She says that many tooth pastes are made using seaweed. She says that the use seaweed soaps cures rashes, skin ulcers and ring worms that are caused by fungi. She also says that consumption of seaweed as food boosts the immunity system, and according to her it is good for people living with HIV.

Three Sisters Giant Caves of Fikirini

noreply@blogger.com (Ali Kipapuro) — Tue, 13 Feb 2018 06:50:00 +0000

After an approximately twenty minutes boda boda ride from the tranquil fishing village of Shimoni skirting my way through the snaky murram roads, I arrive at Fikirini village in Tswaka. A village of the hidden gem of the Three Sisters Giant Caves, the second largest cave system in East Africa.

I meet my guide Ali Toya who takes me through my odyssey at the magnificent caves complex comprising of the Mdenyenye, Pangani and Kisimani caves. The environment here is cool and secure, and the lovely vegetation makes the area a unique haven for photograph lovers.

Wooden staircase leading into the Mdenyenye cave in Fikirini.

We first descend into the largest of the three caves, the Mdenyenye Cave using a wooden staircase well crafted by the locals. Toya takes his moment to first explain the meaning of the word ‘Mdenyenye’ to me.

“Mdenyenye is a word used by the Tswaka community to mean the act of ascending or descending using a rope or a hanging root. This is the largest coral cave in Kenya.” He elaborates.

As we get down into the caves we are welcomed by thousands of bats flocking around after sensing our presence in their domain. A unique encounter indeed as at some angles you have to duck to avoid the bats that were swooping and darting around the cave chambers. The atmosphere down here is thick and humid as we walk inwards on the soft cave floor covered with bats’ poo.

“Don’t be afraid. Some bats can even cling on your body.” Toya explains after seeing me getting petrified.

It is a unique adventure not for the faint heartened! But how was this hidden treasure used by the local Tswaka community in the past?

According to my guide, during the times of slave trade, the local community used to hide inside the Mdenyenye cave to evade those who came to their village looking for slaves. Today this cave is home to seven bat species including the Egyptian fruit bats, common bent-wing bats, long-fingered bat, tomb bats and the angle-faced bat. More than 40,000 bats live inside these caves a number that is believed to be the highest in Africa.

Though not well established, the Three Sisters Caves are a potential attraction of Kwale County. Most of the people who visit these caves are either tourists or researchers and scientists who come here to study bats, the stalactites and stalagmites formation in the caves or even the plant life in and around the caves. Today these caves are used as a spiritual site (Kaya) of the local Tswaka community.

While at the Fikirini caves site one can also have an unforgettable memory of viewing various bird species and also tour the Fikirini village for a taste of the natural refreshing coconut drink known as the madafu as you are entertained by traditional Digo dancers.

Getting to Fikirini:

Fikirini is located at the south eastern part of Kwale County near the fishing village of Shimoni, an approximately 45 minutes drive from the Beach resort of Diani. You can get to this place using a cab or use a public means of transport to Mwambao along Shimoni road and hire a boda boda to Fikirini village.

Have you ever visited the Three Sisters Caves of Fikirini? Drop us a comment on how your experience was like.

Educate Children, Mvurya Advises Parents

noreply@blogger.com (Ali Kipapuro) — Sat, 10 Feb 2018 19:55:00 +0000

Kwale County Governor Salim Mvurya has called upon parents to ensure their children are taken to school. Addressing residents of Samburu/Chengoni ward on Saturday when issuing bursary cheques to students of that ward learning in different secondary schools, Governor Mvurya reminded that education is the only key to success. He reiterated that the County Government of Kwale has invested much in education as a way of growing a society of professionals.

Governor Mvurya (R) with KLB Board Chair Francis Baya (L). / Photo: Ali Kipapuro.

At the same time Governor Mvurya called upon Kwale County residents to embrace peace and avoid political side shows, terming the recent self swearing in of opposition leader Raila Odinga as the Peoples’ President unconstitutional.

"There is only one duly elected President in Kenya and that is Uhuru Kenyatta. Therefore do not let anyone play around with your minds.” He stated.

Mvurya also urged all elected leaders from the County to shun divisive politics, and join hands in serving the people of Kwale.

“It is only through unity and working together that our development agenda shall be fulfilled. That is how we will move forward as a County." He explained.

On her part, Deputy Governor Fatima Achani stated that through the able leadership of Governor, Kwale County has realized most of its developmental agendas. Achani also asked Kwale residents to support Governor Mvurya to a higher national position after he finishes his second term as the Kwale Governor in 2022.

"Mvurya’s track record is open. In the education sector, it is only Kwale County among the 47 Counties in Kenya that has a successful bursary program with National School students receiving a 100 per cent scholarship." She pointed out.

Achani too urged parents in Kwale County to take all their children to school irrespective of their gender, reminding that education is the best inheritance for generation.

The two leaders were accompanied by several senior officials from the County Government and administration officer form the National Government.

In 2013 when they were elected for their first term in office under the devolved system of government, Governor Mvurya and his Deputy Fatuma Achani came up with the ‘Elimu Ni Sasa’ initiative, a program that has highly motivated the growth of education standards in Kwale County. Through this program the County Government of Kwale has facilitated the construction of state of the art Early Childhood Development Education Centers in various parts of the county, and also set aside a bursary fund that sponsors Kwale County students learning in various institutions across the country and also outside Kenya.

Madibwani ECDE Project To Commence Soon

noreply@blogger.com (Ali Kipapuro) — Fri, 09 Feb 2018 13:41:00 +0000

Kwale County Executive Committee Member for Education Mangale Munga Chiforomodo has assured Madibwani residents in Waa/Ng’ombeni ward that the County Government has already set aside funds to build a modern Early Childhood Development Education Center at the area.

Addressing villagers at Madibwani Primary School Chiforomodo reiterated that education is key to success and that the County Government of Kwale will ensure all areas in the County have modern infrastructure in their learning institutions.

“I urge all parents to take their children to school regardless of their gender. I also want to assure you that the contractor is ready and the project of Madibwani Early Childhood Development Education Center will commence before the 3^rd of March this year.’’ He said.

Kwale CEC Member Mangale Chiforomodo addressing Madibwani residents. / Photo: Neema Mwachome.

The County Executive Committee Member also urged the youth of Madibwani to make use of available Youth Polytechnics to learn various skills, saying that the County Government through the Education Department will pay twelve thousand shillings annually for to all students in polytechnics.

‘’Let us take our children to these polytechnics. I have already received 36 million shillings for that program so no one should be left out.’’ Said the County Executive Committee Member.

Madibwani Primary School which started back in 2012 has only three teachers employed by the Teachers Service Commission of Kenya, with rest being PTA teachers. It has 2 classrooms which were funded by Matuga National Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

Chiforomodo has also promised to combine effort with the area Member of Parliament Kassim Sawa Tandaza and Waa/Ng’ombeni Member of County Assembly Halfan Mwasera to ensure that Mabidwani Primary School infrastructure is improved.

Madibwani residents listening to CEC Member Mangale Chiforomodo. / Photo: Neema Mwachome.

Other County officials present at the meeting were Director for Early Childhood Development Education Abdallah Bilashaka and Matuga Sub County Administator Nimusimu Mwasina.

Source: Neema Mwachome-GPS

Stop Early Marriages, Kwale CEC Member Warns

noreply@blogger.com (Ali Kipapuro) — Thu, 08 Feb 2018 10:47:00 +0000

With reports showing that an estimated 23% of girls in Kenya get married before reaching the age of 18, efforts have been put up to protect the basic rights of the girl child. In Kwale County various stakeholders have come together in a bid to ensure that cases of early child marriages and early pregnancies are eradicated, and at the same time ensure that school drop out rates among the girls are decreased. Such cases are reportedly rampant in the rural areas where some families see the girl child as either a burden or at times a source of wealth. Many rural communities try to justify these malpractices by use of cultural or religious arguments.

Kwale CEC Member for Education Mangale Chiforomodo at Naserian village. / Photo: Susan Nyamawi.

In a recent Lunga Lunga Sub County Education Stakeholders Forum held at Naserian village in Mwereni ward, officials from the County Government of Kwale their counterparts from the National Government and officers from various Non Governmental Organizations including Kwale Welfare and Education Association, Muslims For Human Rights (MUHURI) and Haki Yetu emphasized on the importance of education especially to the girl child in the society.

Addressing community members who attended this forum, Kwale County Executive Committee Member for Education Mangale Munga Chiforomodo asked the residents of Naserian village and Mwereni ward to take their children to school.

“It is unfortunate that Mwereni ward and particularly Naserian village has for long been listed as the area with the highest cases of early child marriages and early pregnancies.” He said.

Chiforomodo reiterated that education is a basic right to all children in Kenya, and that the County Government of Kwale will ensure every child in the County goes to school. He also cautioned that parents who force their girls to get married at an early aged will be held responsible for such offences.

“I urge all parents and the community at large to take responsibility and report the culprits who are behind the cases of early pregnancies or early child marriages which hinder our girls education.” He added.

At the same time the CEC member challenged responsible officials from both the county and national governments to take stern legal action against those interfering with girl child education.

Naserian villagers following speeches at the sensitization forum. / Photo: Susan Nyamawi.

On his part, Lunga Lunga Sub County Director of Education Mr Roba explained that some parents use transfers to hide cases of child marriages or pregnancies. He however called upon school heads to regulate transfers of students as a way to eradicate those cases.

“Any parent who wants a transfer for his child should contact my office. Parents should also give equal rights to education to all their children regardless of their gender. Those who do not want to take their children to school will face the law.” He explained.

Mr Roba also reminded stakeholders present at the forum that the Basic Education Act should be adhered to.

Speaking at the same venue Lunga Lunga OCS Mr Richard Kerario challenged parents to report all cases of early pregnancies rather than solving them at community levels. “As police we take child offences seriously and we shall punish everyone found guilty of doing such offenses.” He warned.

Kwale Welfare and Education Association (KWEA) Chief Executive Officer Ms Sabina Saiti reminded Naserian villagers that educating the girl child is empowering the community. “All children have equal rights to education.” She added.

Ms Rehema Mwangeka from Naserian village in Mwereni ward Lunga Lunga. Photo: Susan Nyamawi.

On her part, Ms Rehema Mwangeka who is a volunteer girl child rights activist from Naserian village saidi that many mother want their daughters to learn but fathers tend to be the challenge or obstacle.

"Husband are the decision makers in our families and sometimes mothers are afraid to go against any of their decisions of marrying their daughters to the people they choose for them." She said.

However Ms Rehema urged the stakeholders present at the forum to invest more on sensitization campaigns in rural areas saying that in the recent past there has been a positive change.

SHIFOGA Eco Lodge - Kwale

noreply@blogger.com (Ali Kipapuro) — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 20:57:00 +0000

Set in a cool and refreshing environment in the Shimba Hills Ecosystem, the Shifoga Eco Lodge offers a perfect feel of nature within the limits of Kwale. This Eco Lodge is located just about 200 meters from Kwale main town towards the Shimba Hills National Reserve which is home to the only sable antelope population in Kenya. On arriving at Shifoga Eco Lodge, one gets a unique introduction to wild from the sounds of singing birds and chatters of excited colobous and sykes monkeys jumping from one tree to another. This secret getaway features two self contained bandas with reliable water and power supplies. An overnight stay at Shifoga Eco Lodge is exceptionally a unique experience as one interacts with wildlife.

Photo: Shifoga

While at this Eco Lodge there is never a boring moment. During the day, Shifoga guides will take you out for a walk a nature trail inside the Coastal Rainforest just outside Shimba Hills National Reserve. Here you get a chance to come close to the endangered black and white colobous monkeys, sykes monkeys, baboons and various birds and reptile species. Also in the nature trail walk which normally takes around 45 minutes, a visitor learns about different indigenous tree species.

Shifoga Nature Trail walk. / Photo: Ali Kipapuro.

Amidst the forest is also a set up of a sample traditional Digo homestead (mudzi). As you enter the compound (muhala) at this sample Digo community homestead the first thing you see is a small structure decorated with red, black and white pieces of clothes. Traditionally the Digos called it the fingo which they believed that it offered family member protection from evil spirits. Here one also gets a detailed explanation on various types of traditional houses built by the Digo community in past, and places within their compounds where they used to pray for spiritual assistance from their ancestors. If you are lucky enough you will be entertained by traditional music from the Digo community while at this point in the forest. Later you are taken to a place called ‘ndala’ where the Kaya elders used to pray and offer sacrifices during times of calamities.

Mwakutunza from Shifoga explains about Digo traditions during the nature trail walk. / Photo: Ali Kipapuro.

Inside the Shifoga Nature Trail is a unique picnic site and also several camping grounds where visitors can opt to put up their tents for adventurous nights. It is in this forest also where Shifoga members have their butterfly farm, a livelihood project initiated to encourage Kwale community to conserve environment.

Shifoga picnic site inside the nature trail. / Photo Ali Kipapuro.

Apart from the Nature Trail, Shifoga Eco Lodge organizes village tours for visitors to mingle with local community member in various villages of Kwale where they learn about the lifestyle of the Digo and Duruma communities, and at times have a taste of traditional delicacies from the two communities. Shifoga also has day-long walking safari of about 25 kilometers where their visitors are treated to a unique odyssey in and around the Shimba Hills ecosystem. These tours normally start at their offices through Kwale town to Golini Resort where one takes refreshments and a chance to have an expansive view from the Golini cliff, and later proceed to Chitsanze waterfalls overlooking the magnificent Mwaluganje valley and back to Golini cliff for a sun-downer as you catch a far glimpse of the African Bush Elephants of the Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary.

The Shofoga Eco Lodge is owned by the Shimba Hills Forest Guides Association (SHIFOGA), a group formed in 2004. Below are their rates.

Tour Guiding - Shimba Hills Reserve

Non - Residents & Residents: Ksh. 1,500/= per group

Citizens: Ksh. 1,000/= per group

Institutions: Ksh. 2,000/= per group

Tour Guiding - NATURE TRAIL:

Non - Residents & Residents: Ksh. 500/= per person

Citizens: Ksh. 100/= per person

Tour Guiding - VILLAGE TOURS:

Non - Residents & Residents: Ksh. 500/= per

Citizens: Ksh. 200/= per person

Institutions: Ksh 2,000/= per group

Have you ever visited Shifoga Eco Lodge? You can drop us a comment below on how your experience was like.

Dokata Water Project

noreply@blogger.com (Ali Kipapuro) — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 19:17:00 +0000

Born and raised in Dokata village of MacKinnon Road ward, 52 years old Mwajoto Mwagawari is today a happy man thanks to the water project opened by the County Government of Kwale in their area back in 2017. To him this project is a relief to hundreds of Dokata residents who for years had to walk long distances in search of water. Mwajoto narrates how Dokata mothers used to trek to as far as eight kilometers to fetch water at Mgalani and sometimes at MacKinnon Road areas. Dokata boarders Tsavo East National Park and here wild animals such as elephants, lions and buffaloes frequently cross to the village, which makes this area dangerous at times.

Mwajoto Mwagawari explaining about the water project.

“Our mothers spent much of their time fetching water. They used to wake up as early as 5 o’clock in the morning and they could return home at around 9 o'clock exhausted, and still had other cores to do after returning.” He explains.

According to him, some women walked these tiresome distances carrying their babies on their backs. Apart from that dawn task, some Dokata mothers used to return to Mgalani in the afternoon depending on water consumption needs by their family members.

At Mgalani area, people got water from the Kenya Railway taps that were later closed forcing Dokata residents to move to MacKinnon Road. However since the inception of the Melikubwa-Dokata water project by the County Government of Kwale, Dokata villagers are now getting relief as many get water from a comfortably near walking distance as compared to the past.

Girls at the Dokata water Kiosk.

And to elderly Mama Dzame Rumba, the county water project is such a relief to Dokata villagers. Mama Dzame says that in the past she personally walked the distances to Mgalanai, MacKinnon Road and sometimes to the furthest Kikobeni village where they fetched water. However she explains that the water at Kikobeni wasn’t that safe for domestic uses as it was fetched from open ditches which they later came to realize that they were used as toilets for Mau Mau prisoners during the colonial periods.

“I thank the County Government of Kwale for the water project. We can now comfortably relax and fetch water just a few meters from our homesteads. We are no longer walking those distances we used to walk in the past.” She says.

“We sometimes used to hide or run away from elephants and buffaloes we encountered on our way to Mgalani, MacKinnon or Kikobe areas.'' Adds the elderly woman.

Some residents are also using this water project to do irrigation farming in their homesteads. A good example is Mr Lennox Mwagawari who grows water melons and vegetables such as the amaranthus famously known as ‘mchicha’ in Swahili.

Watermelon from Lennox's farm in Dokata village.

Kwale High Court Project Kicks Off

noreply@blogger.com (Ali Kipapuro) — Tue, 30 Jan 2018 10:56:00 +0000

The Judiciary’s plan of establishing a High Court station in every County in Kenya edged a step closer after Chief Justice David Maraga laid a foundation stone for a 390 million shillings High Court building in Kwale County. In an event attended by Kwale Governor Salim Mvurya, the Chief Justice said the Judiciary will post a High Court Judge to Kwale as soon as the building is complete.

CJ David Maraga (L) and Governor Mvurya at the project site.

So far, there are 39 High Court stations in 38 out of the 47 counties in Kenya. Besides the Kwale County project, construction is ongoing in Isiolo where a High Court is also forthcoming.

The Kwale High Court is being constructed on a three acre piece of land donated to the Judiciary by the County Government.

The Chief Justice who is also the President of the Supreme Court of Kenya formally received the Msambweni Kadhi’s Court from the Kwale County leadership. The Kadhi’s Court construction was funded by the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). Chief Justive Maraga expressed his gratitude to the people of Msambweni Sub County for prioritizing the construction of a Kadhi’s Court despite the many competing priorities that CDF has to contend with. He further said that the Judiciary will consider expanding the Msambweni Kadhi’s court to a full fledged Magistrate’s Court in order to expand the jurisdiction of the Court and bring justice closer to the people.

The Judiciary has committed to building Magistrates’ Courts in all the 290 Sub Counties (constituencies) in the country.

Governor Mvurya (L) with CJ David Maraga (R).

The Chief Justice says other steps that will be taken to improve administration of justice, will be the immediate establishment of a High Court Sub-Registry at Kwale Law Courts, so that High Court matters do not have to go all the way to Mombasa County. Governor Mvurya and other leaders asked the Chief Justice to establish Magistrates Courts in Ukunda and Lunga Lunga areas and pledged to provide land for the projects.

As part of the Judiciary’s effort to entrench integrity and ensure efficient delivery of services, a representative of the office of Judiciary Ombudsman will be stationed at the Kwale Law Courts. The office receives and processes complaints from court users.

The five storey Kwale High Court will have eight Courtrooms, nine Chambers, a Huduma Centre, police and prison cells – both segregated for male and females; Judges’ lounge; Magistrates’ lounge, lactating rooms for mothers; offices for DPP; Probation and other NCAJ agencies; Registries, Archives, stores and library. The court design incorporates views from the local community, gathered through the Court Users Committee which was represented at the launch.

Source: Directorate of Public Affairs and Communication - Judiciary

Governor Mvurya Commends Uhuru Appointments

noreply@blogger.com (Ali Kipapuro) — Sat, 27 Jan 2018 11:16:00 +0000

Kwale Governor Salim Mvurya and his Deputy Fatuma Achani have expressed their heartfelt gratitude to President Uhuru Kenyatta for considering Kwale County and the Coast region in his appointments of Senior Government Officials.

In the recent appointments, former Kwale County Executive Committee Member for Trade and Cooperative Development Safina Kwekwe Tsungu has been appointed to the position of Principal Secretary (PS) for Gender and Professor Hamadi Iddi Boga has been appointed as the Principal Secretary for Agriculture and Research.

Other appointees from the Coast region are Najib Balala who has retained the position of Cabinet Secretary for Tourism, Hussein Dado from Tana River County and former Malindi North Mp Gideon Mung’aro who have been appointed as Chief Administrative Secretaries in the Ministries of Devolution and Lands respectively. Margaret Mwakima has been given the docket of Principal Secretary for Wildlife while former Cabinet Secretary for Mining Dan Kazungu has been appointed the Kenyan High Commissioner to Tanzania.

Kwale Governor Salim Mvurya / Photo: Ali Haji Kipapuro.

In his statement, Governor Mvurya says that these appointments have elicited joy among the people of Kwale County and the Coast region at large. “This clearly demonstrates the confidence of President Uhuru Kenyatta and his Deputy William Ruto in spurring the coastal development agenda.” He explains.

Governor Mvurya has also urged the people of the Coastal region to remain steadfast in supporting the development agenda of the National Government, showing his confidence that these nominees meet all the required qualifications and will deliver in performing their mandate.

At the same time, he has called upon the people and leadership of the region to unite and focus on addressing challenges facing their Counties.

Those appointed to various positions will undergo a constitution vetting process by the National Assembly before they are fully confirmed to assume their roles.

In his announcement to the nation while making the appointment on Friday, President Kenyatta stressed on the need for efficient operation of the government saying that he had consulted the Public Service Commission.

The President established the position of Chief Administrative Secretary in all ministries who would be responsible for helping the Cabinet Secretaries in undertaking the constitutional mandate.

Here is the list of Cabinet secretaries, Chief Administrative Secretaries and Principal Secretaries named by President Uhuru Kenyatta.

Bellow is the list of the nominees by President Uhuru Kenyatta:

Cabinet Secretaries:

Farida Karoney – Lands, Monica Juma – Foreign Affairs, Margaret Kobia – Public Service, Youth and Gender Affairs, Amina Mohamed – Education, Sicily Kariuki – Health, Fred Matiang’i – Interior, John Munyes – Petroleum & Mining, Eugene Wamalwa – Devolution, Simon Chelgui – Water, Keriako Tobiko – Environment, Adan Mohammed – Industrialisation, Mwangi Kiunjuri – Agriculture, Rashid Mohammed – Sports, Najib Balala – Tourism, Ukur Yattani – Labour, Peter Munya – East African Community, James Macharia – Transport, Joseph Mucheru – ICT, Henry Rotich – Treasury and Raphael Tuju (without portfolio).

Chief Administrative Secretaries:

Patrick Ntutu – Interior, Ababu Namwamba - Foreign Affairs, Rachel Shebesh - Youth and Gender, Hussein Dado – Devolution and Chris Obure – Transport.

Principal Secretaries:

Macharia Kamau - Foreign Affairs, Lilian Omolo - Youth and Gender, Andrew Kamau - Petroleum and Mining, Charles Sunkuli – Environment and Paul Maringa – Transport.