Police Officer Arrested With Elephant Tusks Worth Sh12 Million

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August 15, 2023

A police officer and a civilian have been arrested while transporting 79 kilogrammes of elephant tusks in Meru.

The two- police constable Harrison Gitonga Kanake from Tutwa Police Station and a civilian by the name Hassan Galgalo were transporting the cargo valued at Sh12 million in a salon car when they were intercepted by a team of police and Kenya Wildlife Service personnel.

They were carrying 23 pieces of elephant tusks that had been hidden in 80 gunny bags.

It is said that the two were taking the cargo to a buyer to sell when they were intercepted. They will be charged with the offence of being in Possession of Wildlife Trophies of Endangered Species Contrary to Section 92(4) of the Wildlife Conservation Management Act 2013.

Officials said that it is likely 10 elephants had been killed from the nearby Meru National Park based on the number of tusks recovered from the two.

This is despite stringent measures in place to address the menace of poaching in the country and region.

In July, two herders accused of illegally possessing elephant tusks were given stringent bond terms of Sh1 million each after being charged Mombasa.

They were accused of dealing in ivory and allegedly found with Sh2 million worth of elephant tusks by KWS detectives.

PIC Probes Higher Learning Institutions For Financial Irregularities

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John Mutiso

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August 15, 2023

The Public Investments Committee (PIC) in the National Assembly is investigating financial irregularities in higher education institutions, as highlighted by the Auditor General’s reports.

The investigation encompasses public universities, Technical Vocational Education Training (TVET) institutions, and Technical Training institutes. These institutions are grappling with significant outstanding bills, making the investigation timely and essential.

Jack Wamboka, the Committee Chairman and Bumula MP, disclosed that the probe is retrospective, covering the fiscal year 2019–2020. The aim is to thoroughly address the concerns raised in the audit reports.

During a session in Kisumu, Wamboka emphasized the committee’s commitment to revealing blatant financial misconduct. He emphasized their determination to ensure the appropriate utilization of public funds allocated to these institutions, indicating that all responsible parties will be held accountable.

Wamboka pointed out that the audit reports outlined issues including mismanagement of public resources, negligence, and incompetence among accounting officers. He asserted that the committee will pursue those involved in order to recover misappropriated funds.

“Our objective is to safeguard public interests and guarantee value for every penny allocated to these public institutions,” Wamboka stated.

He explained that many institutions had previously escaped PIC audits due to the committee’s large scope of oversight, involving over 900 institutions. However, the current parliament has divided the PIC into three sections, enabling comprehensive oversight of previously unexamined institutions.

In recent sessions, accounting officers from Kisumu National Polytechnic, Seme Technical and Vocational College, Ugenya Technical and Vocational College, and Bondo Technical and Vocational College have appeared before the committee.

Continuing its proceedings in Kisumu until August 18, 2023, the committee intends to investigate reports on institutions such as Maseno University, Kisii University, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, and Tom Mboya University, among others.

Accompanied by MPs Mangale Chiforomodo (Lunga Lunga), Samuel Mwenje (Embakasi West), and Dan Kariitho (Igembe Central), Wamboka stated that following the hearings, the committee will compile a report, identifying accounting officers responsible for mismanagement of public resources.

“We’ve already presented two reports and have two more ready, with a fourth in progress. The time for action is now. Without holding these officers accountable, progress cannot be achieved,” Wamboka asserted.

Given the span of the review period, Wamboka acknowledged that some managers may have left their positions. The committee plans to propose parliamentary actions to ensure accountability.

“After concluding the investigations, the committee will formulate and submit a report to the parliament. Once debated and approved, relevant government agencies will address the matter accordingly,” Wamboka concluded.

Ministry Of Health Takes Proactive Steps To Ensure Health And Safety At Africa Climate Change Summit

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John Mutiso

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August 15, 2023

In preparation for the upcoming Africa Climate Change Summit/Week, the Ministry of Health is making diligent efforts to guarantee comprehensive health and safety measures for all attending delegates.

The organizers’ unwavering commitment to stringent health precautions, swift emergency response, and meticulous public health inspections underscores their determination to create a secure environment for all participants.

Addressing the Diplomatic Corps during an enlightening session in Nairobi, Mary Muthoni, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards, provided insight into the Ministry’s detailed preparations.

The PS unveiled the deployment of Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) ambulances, reinforcing the existing Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulances strategically positioned across event locations.

This strategic arrangement will ensures prompt medical assistance for delegates in the event of emergencies.

Muthoni also emphasized the considerate placement of health clinics to ensure seamless accessibility for all participants, including those with specific needs.

“Both clinics will be fully staffed with Human Resources for Health (HRH) and meticulously stocked with pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical supplies, effectively equipped to address a wide range of health conditions. To bolster emergency readiness, five strategically stationed ambulances will remain on standby throughout the event venue,” she confirmed.

The Principal Secretary further highlighted the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to maintaining elevated health standards. To this end, dedicated public health teams are prepared to conduct comprehensive inspections of all accommodations and conduct thorough vetting of food vendors catering to delegates.

These stringent measures are thoughtfully implemented to ensure unwavering compliance with health standards and proactively address any potential medical concerns.

Donkey Carcasses Meant For Sale Seized By Police

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Editor

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August 15, 2023

Written by Lisa Murimi

Police from the Directorate of Criminal Investigation have confiscated seven donkey carcasses in Kiambu County. The meat was being prepared for local consumption.

A midnight raid was conducted at the slaughter site in Kiahiti village, Gatune sub-location, where officers uncovered the situation.

Alerted by prior intelligence, officers from Nachu police post arrived in time to witness the unscrupulous vendors slaughtering the donkeys. The meat, cleverly disguised as beef, found its way to city butcheries and meat joints.

Distressed by the persistent noises of suffering donkeys, residents had raised complaints.

Further investigation revealed that traders were extracting boneless meat from the carcasses, passing it off as beef fillets and other cuts. Notably, no part went to waste. Donkey intestines, kidneys, and other organs were also packaged and sold to outlets specializing in roadside delicacies.

The notice states that efforts are underway to apprehend three suspects who managed to flee the scene. This incident sheds light on the need for stricter monitoring of meat sources and vendors to prevent such deceptive practices from endangering public health and animal welfare.

First Lady Commissions 210 Kenyan Trainees For An 11-Month Training In Israel

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Editor

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August 15, 2023

Written by Lisa Murimi

Kenya’s First Lady, Rachel Ruto, has initiated a significant step by sending 210 Kenyan trainees to participate in the 2023 Mashav Agricultural Training Program.

The program, conducted at the Arava International Centre for Agricultural Training (AICAT) in Israel, spans 11 months of hands-on learning.

Emphasizing the fruitful collaboration between Kenya and Israel, Mama Rachel Ruto commended the exchange of trainees in fields vital to both nations, including security, medicine, and agriculture.

The 2023 Mashav Agricultural Training Program stands as a testament to the robust partnership between Kenya and Israel. Aligned with the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), agriculture gains prominence as a pivotal sector fostering economic growth, food security, employment, and industrialization.

Equipped with newfound skills and fresh perspectives, these trainees will return to Kenya, contributing to the nation’s development. Deputy Head of Mission of Israel in Kenya, Drova Dorsman Yarkoni, envisions the AICAT Alumni becoming successful agri-preneurs who offer innovative solutions for food production and security.

The training center’s location in the Arava desert of Southern Israel is poised to inspire trainees to address agricultural challenges in Kenya’s Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs), covering 23 out of the country’s 47 counties. This endeavor holds the promise of shaping a more resilient and prosperous agricultural landscape for Kenya.

Is Diamond Or Billnass The Biological Father Of Hamisa Mobetto’s Son?

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Editor

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August 15, 2023

Written by Lisa Murimi

The ongoing Tanzanian showbiz buzz revolves around the true father of socialite Hamisa Mobetto’s son.

Speculation has frequently hinted that rapper Billnass could be the biological father of Dylan, the child of Diamond Platnumz.

The six-year-old boy was born during Mobetto’s fling with Diamond while he was in a serious relationship with Zari Hassan.

Recently, the rumor gained renewed attention on social media after Hamisa introduced her new boyfriend.

This situation prompted both Mobetto and Billnass, also known as Nenga, to address the matter separately in recent interviews.Nenga clarified,

“To the best of my knowledge, majority of women wouldn’t fancy a scenario where they are said to have been in a relationship with a guy they never dated. Hamisa and I have never dated at any point.

However, there was a time the two of us were very close and tight buddies but it was just that,” Nenga said in a recent radio interview.

Nenga said his friendship with the former Miss Tanzania contestants sprouted years back when police summoned both of them after getting involved in separate video scandals where they were unclothed.

“The kid is not mine because even by the time Hamisa and I became buddies, she already had her two children, and so to the best of my knowledge, Diamond is the boy’s father.

This entire information has been misleading, and I wonder what the keyboard warriors stand to gain from it,” Nenga clarified.

In a separate interview, Mobetto concurred, asserting that Nenga and Diamond both confirmed Naseeb (Diamond) as the father. She acknowledged the challenge of convincing those who have already formed their opinions on the matter.

Kenya Taps Into Its Creative Industry To Woo Chinese Tourists

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Editor

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August 15, 2023

Written by Lisa Murimi

Kenya is leveraging its creative industry to attract more Chinese tourists, aiming to tap into the vast potential of the Chinese tourism market.

Through a newly established exchange program between the film industries of Kenya and China, the two countries will collaborate to share expertise, knowledge, and technology.

While an impressive 155 million Chinese tourists explore global destinations, the East Africa region has yet to fully benefit from this trend.

Recent data from Kenya’s tourism sector indicates a positive shift, with the country welcoming 55,488 visitors from China in 2022, up from an average of 30,000 in 2019 before the pandemic.

China holds a significant position as a primary source market for tourists, contributing nearly 10 percent to global tourism.

Kenyan officials are optimistic about the potential for growth, with the Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Sports, and the Arts, Ababu Namwamba, emphasizing that even a fraction of the Chinese market could greatly benefit Kenya’s economy.

Chinese tourists have shown to be robust spenders, with each trip amounting to over $1,250, surpassing expenditures by European tourists by almost 35 percent, according to a 2021 World Tourism Organisation report.

This collaborative effort between Kenya and China underscores their shared commitment to utilizing their film industries as catalysts for economic growth and mutual understanding.

The Kenyan Film and Classification Board’s Acting CEO, Joel Wamalwa, challenges industry stakeholders to produce high-quality content that resonates with international audiences, solidifying Kenya’s position as a thriving hub of creativity on the global stage.

Former NGO Body Boss Blames Late Ole Ntimama Amid Theft Of Sh12m Donor Funds

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Cyrus Kimanga

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August 15, 2023

A former head of the National Council of Non-Governmental Organizations accused of stealing Sh11.79 million in donor monies has blamed his current problems on a deceased cabinet secretary, William ole Ntimama.

Dr Simon Sagana Kanani alleged in a sworn defense before Milimani law courts senior resident magistrate Ben Mark Enkubi that the late King of the Maa community wanted someone from his community to lead the NGO organization.

Dr Kanani denied stealing Sh11,793,453 from the organization and blamed Ntimama and a former PS for organizing a coup to depose him as chair of the NGO’s Kenyan body.

Dr Kanani, who succeeded the late Orie Rogo Manduli, stated that “a coup was staged in a nefarious scheme to get me.”

Led by Prof Elisha Ongoya in his defence and cross-examined by a state prosecutor Virginia Kariuki, Dr Kanani insisted that no money was stolen since all the expenditure was authorized by the board.

Dr Kanani is charged alongside lawyer Lucas Chacha Matiko, a former treasurer of the organization and the chairman of an air company Philip Chris Obure.

In their sworn defences Dr Kanani, Matiko and Obure told the trial magistrate that “they ran the organization in a most professional manner which attracted heavy donor funding.”

The magistrate heard that the deceased minister was drumming up support for David ole Konchellah to ascend to the leadership of the National Council of NGO’s.

Mr Enkubi heard that ole Ntimama mooted for the removal of the entire board of the NGO national council and replacing them with members from the Maa community.

The accused persons who have denied theft and conspiracy to defraud the NGO’s told the trial court that they were framed since all the monies received to fund NGOs was properly used across the country.

“We committed no wrong. We were arrested and charged for theft and conspiracy to defraud irregularly. There is no evidence to prove the cases against us.Free us,” Sagana, Matiko and Obure urged Mr Enkubi

The magistrate was urged the court to ashame the prosecution by acquitting them.

Mr Enkubi was further told that the case was investigated by a police officer named as ole Sunkuli who did not even visit the offices of the NGO council.

Easy Coach Bans Fish Transportation In Its Buses

By

John Mutiso

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August 15, 2023

Easy Coach, one of Kenya’s leading transport companies, has banned the transport of fish in its buses.

The Company has not given details as to why it has imposed the ban in a notice to all branch managers, only stating that it has caused “heartache” among its clients.

“We wish to inform you that with immediate effect fish and products thereof are all forbidden on all Easy Coach limited transport systems whether accompanied or by parcels,” the notice reads.

According to the Company’s technical director ZK Juma, the August 11 notice takes effect immediately and requires all users to comply.

“It is hoped that you will cooperate with the directive to forestall related complications.,” it adds.

West Ham Want Alternative After Maguire Deal Stalls

By

John Mutiso

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August 15, 2023

West Ham’s move for Manchester United’s Harry Maguire has stalled due to uncertainty over whether the defender is prepared to join the club.

A £30m deal was agreed on 9 August.

But the Hammers have received no word back from Maguire about when the deal can be completed, even though it had been felt he was willing to make the move to the London Stadium.

Maguire struggled for first-team opportunities last season and was stripped of the captaincy this season.

The England international was on the bench for United’s 1-0 win over Wolves on Monday but did not get on even though manager Erik ten Hag used five substitutes and replaced central defender Lisandro Martinez with Victor Lindelof at half-time.

Prior to that game, Ten Hag said Maguire, 30, would be better off leaving United if he is not confident enough to battle for a first-team spot.

It is possible the deal with West Ham could be revived but for the moment it is regarded as stalled and manager David Moyes is looking at alternatives.

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