WE ARE REPORTING IN FEAR,AS THEY ARE ON THE QUEST OF SILENCING THE FOURTH ESTATE

John Omido,a victim of police brutality during the ongoing peaceful protest.

In recent times, Kenya has witnessed a surge in protests, with citizens expressing their dissatisfaction with the government. Unfortunately, these protests have also seen journalists becoming targets of violence and intimidation. The situation has escalated to a point where it is no longer safe to be a journalist in Kenya.

During the ongoing protests, several journalists have been wounded, shot at by police, and even arrested. For instance, Catherine Wanjeri Kariuki, a reporter at K24 TV, was shot in the left thigh by anti-riot officers while covering the protests in Nakuru. Another journalist, Collins Olunga from AFP, was shot by the police, and John Omido, a photographer from Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC), was sprayed with water mixed with harmful chemicals.These incidents highlight the growing dangers faced by journalists in Kenya. The Media Council of Kenya has described this period as "the darkest month for Kenyan media since the clamour for multiparty democracy"

 

The Constitution of Kenya guarantees the right to freedom of expression. Article 33 of the Constitution states that every person has the right to freedom of expression, which includes the freedom to seek, receive, or impart information or ideas. This right is fundamental to a democratic society, allowing for open dialogue and the free flow of information. However, the recent attacks on journalists are a direct violation of this constitutional right. It is essential for the government and law enforcement agencies to respect and uphold the freedom of the press, ensuring that journalists can carry out their duties without fear of violence or intimidation.

The targeting of journalists during protests has a chilling effect on the media landscape in Kenya. Journalists are forced to work in fear, which can lead to self-censorship and a reduction in the quality and quantity of news coverage. This, in turn, deprives the public of vital information and undermines the role of the media as a watchdog of democracy. The attacks on journalists also send a message to the public that dissent and free expression are not tolerated, which can stifle public discourse and hinder the democratic process.

The targeting of journalists during protests is unacceptable and must be addressed urgently. The Kenyan government and law enforcement agencies must take immediate steps to protect journalists and hold those responsible for these attacks accountable. The freedom of the press is a cornerstone of democracy, and it is crucial to safeguard this right for the benefit of all Kenyans. International organizations and human rights groups should also put pressure on the Kenyan government to ensure the safety of journalists and uphold the principles of free expression.

The safety of journalists in Kenya is under threat, and it is imperative to take action to protect their rights and ensure they can report freely and safely. The Constitution guarantees freedom of expression, and it is the duty of the government to uphold this right. By protecting journalists, we protect the very foundation of democracy and ensure that the voices of the people are heard. Am not sure the next time they ask for accreditation,I will proudly identify as a journalist,because by the look of it,it is no longer safe being a journalist. So the next time you find me in an account office attending to you or in your local hospital as a nurse,do not be surprised,I love living. 

Written by Alexander Kiruga

DIAPERED DISASTER - "The Urgent Need to Address Diaper Pollution in Africa"

 According to recent reports, diapers have become a major contributor to river pollution in Kenya and Africa at large. Disposable diapers, which are used by millions of parents across the continent, contain plastic and chemicals that can harm the environment when not disposed of properly. With the growing population in Africa, the problem of diaper pollution is only getting worse, and urgent action is needed to address this issue.

The environmental impact of disposable diapers is significant. In Kenya, it is estimated that approximately 3 million disposable diapers are used daily. This translates to over 1 billion diapers per year, which end up in landfills and waterways across the country. These diapers can take hundreds of years to decompose, leading to a build-up of waste that can harm the environment and pose a risk to human health.

The problem of diaper pollution is not limited to Kenya. Across Africa, the use of disposable diapers is on the rise, and the impact on the environment is becoming increasingly severe. In many countries, there is a lack of infrastructure to properly dispose of diapers, leading to an increase in litter and waste in rivers and other waterways. The chemicals and toxins present in diapers can also leach into the soil and water, contaminating food and water sources and posing a risk to human health.

Wrongly disposed diapers

Fortunately, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the impact of diaper pollution on the environment. One solution is to use cloth diapers, which are reusable and do not contribute to the build-up of waste in landfills. While the upfront cost of cloth diapers may be higher than that of disposable diapers, the long-term cost savings can be significant. Additionally, cloth diapers are more environmentally friendly and can help to reduce the amount of waste generated by diapers.

Proper disposal of disposable diapers is also crucial in reducing diaper pollution. Diapers should not be flushed down the toilet or thrown in the trash where they can end up in landfills. Instead, consider investing in a diaper pail specifically designed for disposable diapers. This can help prevent the diapers from ending up in the environment.

Education and awareness campaigns can also be effective in reducing the use of disposable diapers and encouraging proper disposal. Governments and organisations can launch awareness campaigns to educate the public on the environmental impact of disposable diapers and the importance of proper disposal. These campaigns can also help to promote the use of cloth diapers and encourage parents to consider more environmentally friendly alternatives.

Diaper pollution is a growing environmental problem in Kenya and Africa at large. With the increasing population and use of disposable diapers, urgent action is needed to address this issue. By using cloth diapers, properly disposing of disposable diapers, and promoting education and awareness, we can make a significant impact in reducing the amount of waste generated by diapers. It is up to all of us to take action and protect our environment for future generations.

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KENYA'S TREE TROUBLES - " why exotic trees may hinder climate change efforts "

 Climate change is a serious issue that threatens the very existence of our planet. In Kenya, the impact of climate change is already being felt in many ways, including changes in weather patterns, reduced agricultural productivity, and increased frequency and intensity of natural disasters. To combat these challenges, there is growing interest in afforestation and reforestation projects, but there is one issue that is branching out - the use of exotic trees. 

Exotic trees like eucalyptus, pine, and cypress are often used in afforestation and reforestation projects because they grow quickly and are adaptable to a wide range of soil and climatic conditions. However, these exotic trees can have negative effects on the ecosystem. For example, they may out-compete native species and disrupt natural habitats, leading to reduced biodiversity. They can also have high water demands like the eucalyptus, which can be a real problem in areas that are already struggling with water scarcity.

An illustration of types of trees

The negative effects of exotic trees on the environment have been well-documented. According to a study by the African Forest Forum, the use of exotic trees in Kenya has led to a reduction in the abundance and diversity of native tree species. The study also found that exotic trees can have negative effects on soil fertility and water availability, and can even contribute to desertification in some areas. I have been in kajiado a thousand times,while everyone is in the quest for water which is scarce in that semi-arid,acres of land have been filled with eucalyptus,tell me why the lands there won't continue drying up? the communities that rely on these ecosystems for their livelihoods are also impacted, the high water demands of some exotic trees can lead to reduced water availability for agricultural activities, which can have serious economic and social consequences for local communities.

So what can be done to address this issue? The answer lies in planting and caring for native tree species. Not only is this a way to improve local biodiversity and end desertification, but it also has numerous other benefits. For example, native tree species are often better adapted to local soil and climatic conditions, which means they are more resilient to the effects of climate change. They can also provide valuable ecosystem services, such as carbon detachment and soil conservation.

The good news is that communities can play an important role in these efforts. In many cases, afforestation and reforestation projects are community-led initiatives that involve the planting and care of native tree species. These projects not only provide environmental benefits but can also have social and economic benefits for local communities. i.e, they can create employment opportunities and provide a source of fuel-wood and other non-timber forest products.

Of course, there are challenges to planting trees in Kenya. These include finding suitable land for planting, securing funding, and getting local communities on board with the project. But with the right support and resources, these challenges can be overcome.

The use of exotic trees in afforestation and reforestation projects in Kenya is a serious issue that has negative impacts on the environment and local communities. By planting and caring for native tree species, we can improve local biodiversity, combat desertification, and provide numerous other benefits. And with the involvement of local communities, these efforts can be more successful and sustainable. So let's get planting and do our part to fight against climate change!

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TECHNOLOGICAL ENHANCEMENT TO CURB CLIMATE CHANGE

 Climate change is a pressing issue that has been affecting the whole world. Kenya, like many other countries, is experiencing the impacts of our own doing. The country is highly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, including increased temperatures, droughts, floods, and unpredictable weather patterns. These challenges have had far-reaching consequences, including the loss of lives, destruction of property, and the disruption of economic activities.  climate change has also affected the agricultural sector, which is the backbone of the Kenyan economy. Farmers have been grappling with the effects of change in rainfall patterns, which have led to reduced crop yields and food insecurity.

children using a solar lamp to read

One of the most significant challenges in curbing climate change is the high cost of technology. Many Kenyans earn a minimum wage, and they may not afford expensive technologies to reduce their carbon footprint. Moreover, most of the population resides in rural areas, where they may not have access to reliable electricity, let alone advanced technology. However, there are still ways in which technology can be incorporated into everyday life to help reduce the effects of climate change in Kenya.

Renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, can help reduce the country's dependence on fossil fuels and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. While solar panels and wind turbines may be expensive, there are more affordable options available. For instance, the use of solar lamps or lanterns can be a cheaper alternative to traditional lighting sources like kerosene lamps, which emit harmful fumes and contribute to carbon emissions. 

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), over 2.7 million households in Kenya use solar lighting, which has improved their quality of life while also reducing carbon emissions. The Kenyan government has been promoting renewable energy as part of its development agenda. In 2019, the government launched the Kenya National Electrification Strategy, which aims to provide universal access to electricity by 2022. The strategy emphasizes the use of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and geothermal, which are abundant in the country. Moreover, the government has also introduced tax incentives and subsidies for renewable energy companies to encourage investment in the sector. ( though questions are stagnate here on matters to with over-taxing solar importation)

Transportation is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. Electric vehicles may seem like an unaffordable luxury, but there are other ways to reduce carbon emissions from transportation. For example, walking or cycling instead of using a car can be an effective way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while also promoting a healthy lifestyle. Our public transportation, such as buses, emit fewer greenhouse gases per passenger than private cars. The Kenyan government is also working towards a cleaner transportation system, with plans to expand electric vehicle charging infrastructure and promote the use of electric vehicles.

Agriculture is a crucial sector in Kenya, and farmers face the challenges of climate change, such as droughts and unpredictable weather patterns. While high-tech solutions  may be out of reach for small-scale farmers, there are still ways to incorporate technology into farming practices. For instance, using organic fertilizers and crop rotation techniques can help increase crop yields while reducing the use of harmful chemicals. Also using water-efficient irrigation techniques, such as drip irrigation, can help conserve water while also reducing costs for farmers.

The Kenyan government has also been promoting sustainable agriculture practices. In 2019, the government launched the National Climate Smart Agriculture Strategy, which aims to increase food security, improve incomes for farmers, and promote sustainable land use. The strategy emphasizes the use of climate-resilient crops, sustainable farming practices, and the adoption of technologies such as weather forecasting and crop insurance.

Technology can be a valuable tool in mitigating the effects of climate change in Kenya, even for those who earn a minimum wage or live

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ENDING CLIMATE WARS : Let's STOP Talking and Let's START Acting

 

Kenya has been facing severe droughts resulting in drying up of rivers and impacting agriculture. According to the National Drought Management Authority, in 2019 alone, 2.6 million people were affected by drought in Kenya. This situation is due to climate change and human actions like deforestation, urbanization, and overuse of water resources.

 

To overcome these challenges, rainwater harvesting is one of the most effective solutions. It involves collecting and storing rainwater for future use. This technique can reduce the strain on existing water resources, provide a reliable source of water even during times of drought, and improve water security in communities.

However, there are challenges to the implementation of rainwater harvesting in Kenya. These challenges include a lack of government funding, low awareness among communities about the benefits of rainwater harvesting, and lack of technical expertise in constructing and maintaining rainwater harvesting systems.

In some areas, the lack of government funding has resulted in poor implementation of rainwater harvesting. For example, in Kajiado County, the government constructed 16 water tanks for rainwater harvesting, but most of them are unused due to poor construction and lack of maintenance. In another example, the Kenyan government launched a $47 million project in 2019 to construct dams and water storage systems in drought-prone regions of the country. However, the project faced delays due to corruption allegations and has not been completed yet. The lack of awareness about the benefits of rainwater harvesting is another challenge.

The lack of technical expertise in constructing and maintaining rainwater harvesting systems is also a challenge in some areas. According to an article published by the Daily Nation in May 2021, the rainwater harvesting systems in Kisumu County are not properly constructed, leading to leakages and contamination. The article reports that some households have constructed rainwater harvesting systems using poor quality materials that easily break down, leading to leakages and loss of water. Additionally, some households use open storage containers, which expose the water to contamination from insects, animals, and dirt. Another article published by the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation in September 2021 reports that some households in Kisumu County have constructed rainwater harvesting systems without proper guidance and technical support. As a result, the systems are not functioning as intended, leading to water wastage and contamination. This situation leads to the waste of water and health risks to communities.

To address these challenges, the Kenyan government needs to prioritize funding for rainwater harvesting projects and ensure proper implementation and maintenance. Community education and awareness campaigns about the benefits of rainwater harvesting should also be prioritized. Additionally, technical support and training should be provided to communities to ensure proper construction and maintenance of rainwater harvesting systems. 

There are several successful examples of rainwater harvesting implementation in Kenya that have led to positive results. One such example is the RAIN Foundation's work in Makueni County, which has helped communities to construct and maintain rainwater harvesting systems. According to a report by RAIN Foundation, their program in Makueni County has resulted in increased water availability, improved crop yields, and improved livestock health. The report states that the program has constructed over 200 sand dams and other rainwater harvesting structures, which have enabled communities to capture and store rainwater for use during dry periods. This has reduced the reliance on distant water sources and has increased water availability for household and agricultural use. Another successful example of rainwater harvesting implementation in Kenya is the Taka Taka Solutions project in Kajiado County. Taka Taka Solutions is a social enterprise that provides sustainable waste management solutions, including constructing rainwater harvesting systems in schools and communities.

According to an article published by the Guardian, Taka Taka Solutions has constructed rainwater harvesting systems in six schools in Kajiado County, providing clean water for drinking and handwashing. The article states that the project has led to a reduction in water-related diseases among children and has increased school attendance.

Rainwater harvesting is a vital tool in the fight against drought in Kenya and the world at large. However, there are challenges to its implementation, including lack of government funding, low awareness, and lack of technical expertise. To fully realize the potential of rainwater harvesting in Kenya, the government and communities need to work together to overcome these challenges and invest in this crucial technique for water management. 

Together, we can prevent water scarcity and bring development to our country. May our current situation be our life's lesson...

                                               #TuvuneMajiTuvueUkame

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PROTECTING NATURE OR EXPLOITING IT?

 

Photo courtesy : zander worldwide studios

Conservation is an important aspect of Kenya's economy, as it is home to some of the most incredible wildlife in the world. However, the issue of conservation in Kenya is fraught with hypocrisy and double standards that threaten to undermine the very goals it is supposed to achieve.

On one hand, the Kenyan government has created many national parks and game reserves, including the famous Maasai Mara, to protect the country's wildlife. The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) is tasked with ensuring that these areas are protected, and that poaching and illegal hunting are prevented.

However, there are many instances where the government and the KWS turn a blind eye to conservation efforts, and even contribute to the degradation of the environment. For instance, some of the most significant deforestation in Kenya has occurred as a result of the government allocating forest land to large-scale commercial projects such as the construction of the Standard Gauge Railway, as well as logging by Chinese companies. Additionally, some of the country's most critical water sources have been polluted or destroyed by industrial activity.

There is also an issue with the hunting of wildlife, which is a highly lucrative business in Kenya. While poaching is illegal and highly regulated, wealthy individuals and foreigners are often given special permits to hunt for sport, even in protected areas. In 2018, a German hunter named Rainer Schorr was granted a permit to hunt a male lion in a wildlife conservancy in northern Kenya. The lion was shot and killed, sparking outrage among conservationists and the public.

In addition to hunting, there are also concerns about the impact of wealthy individuals and foreigners on conservation efforts in Kenya. Many are involved in activities such as wildlife trafficking and poaching, which pose a serious threat to endangered species.

Overall, it is clear that the issue of special permits for sport hunting in Kenya is a complex and controversial one, with many differing viewpoints and opinions. However, it is important to consider the impact of these practices on the environment and the animals that call it home.

 The revenue generated from these hunts is supposed to go towards conservation efforts, but there are many cases where this money has been misappropriated.

Furthermore, conservation efforts are often geared towards tourist dollars rather than actually protecting the environment. Many people involved in the conservation industry in Kenya are more interested in profits than in preserving nature. For example, some animal sanctuaries and rehabilitation centers have been accused of keeping animals in substandard conditions in order to attract visitors and generate revenue. The Nairobi Animal Orphanage, which has faced criticism over the years for keeping animals in small, cramped enclosures and providing inadequate veterinary care. In 2017, an investigation by The Star newspaper revealed that animals at the orphanage were being kept in poor conditions, with some confined to cages that were too small for them.

Another example is the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi, which has been accused of keeping its giraffes in small enclosures and denying them access to natural habitat. In 2018, the center was criticized by animal welfare organizations for keeping its giraffes in pens that were too small and failing to provide them with proper medical care.

In both cases, the facilities have defended their practices, but the allegations have raised concerns about the treatment of animals in sanctuaries and rehabilitation centers in Kenya. It is important for these facilities to prioritize the well-being of the animals in their care, rather than putting profits or visitor experiences first.

Despite these challenges, there are many individuals and organizations in Kenya who are committed to true conservation and are working hard to protect the country's wildlife and natural resources. The success of such efforts depends on a shift in priorities, where the needs of the environment take precedence over commercial interests.

In conclusion, conservation in Kenya is a complex issue, with many competing interests and challenges. While there are certainly instances of hypocrisy and double standards, there are also many individuals and organizations who are working hard to protect the country's wildlife and natural resources. It is important for everyone to be aware of these issues and to support true conservation efforts.

Written by Alexander kiruga alias Alexander's MindKE

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ALEXANDER'S MIND Part 2 : SELF-MADE MAD MAN

 

Everytime a rock falls,all that rings in our thoughts is the mountains are rolling down on us.How many times have I fooled myself,with the fact that I can do it on my own,actually I did,and had even extra space for everyone. I know I may sound insane,but I’ve had myself to lean on to,am sure you wondering how did I do that,a hug can do yes,but I need myself to believe in self before anyone does,and it isn’t easy actually,especially when you have a whole bunch of good deeds to offer to everyone. A prayer before anything,and the rest is just a process that takes self-respect as an antidote for peace of mind. We all work hard to get our lives to certain point,an ambition,a dream,a goal,unfortunately for some our journey’s end isn’t at the peak but I believe it’s  a lesson for some us not to repeat the same mistake to get to the peak of our highest mountains.

When you have yourself to worry about and even lean on,you have a lot to loose,the respect others would call it,but my view is you loose self-discipline. You believe in yourself more that even every life you help change,helps you change yours. How many times have felt like not getting out of bed,keep my phone off,eat not,in short,felt like doing nothing at all. When those calls come in,you just take a minute to get that fake smile settled on your face for the following conversation, All you will need to say,”all will be well!” words you’ve lived by,and you say it to everyone in return you get the inspiration they receive but in a reciprocated way.

On this wrecking day,In the house,pulled more hair from my head,and my floor is more hairy than your favourite barbershop,the water taste bitter,the food taste soar,the music sounds weird and the sleep seems impossible, for hours I try to distract my thoughts into Hollywood movies,actually some anime, a favourite one did; Boondocks, but an episode doesn’t run half-way before boredom gets the better part of my feelings,and I pause it,with no sleep or music I have myself to talk to,others may call it insane,but a favorite musician would quote as ‘thinking out loud’ and wishes are if I was just dreaming and reality kicks it with how hot the sun is,you can tell from the shirtless chest and sweating forehead,and am still in my own hand-made cage,or in lameman’s tongue,in my house,so it won’t change anything if I go out,it will only make it worse. I comfort myself with several cups of hot coffee,I couldn’t feel the heat anymore as far as my mind gets busy wondering why it was so sweet. I share my thoughts and feelings to my cup,and we both laugh it loud. Several hours has passed and no calls,I guess if you don’t call they won’t call,how desparate can a human get to waste time in a war of self-respect,and I just laugh it out more. I actually am not okay,and this call comes in;and the response I have is the same old song I sing everyday,Am good and smile,but my head is spinning in thoughts,pain ravaging my mind in deceptive reality,and I remind myself I still have myself to lean on to,and for others to lean on to remember.

I taught myself to trust my issues with myself growing up,when a shield turned into sharp arrows that pierced through a desperate heart. It wasn’t late to turn away and pick up the pieces and build a strong wall characterized by what the world would thing talking too much,but it has always been a tactic to make them think they know everything but they only know what I allow them to. It has taken years to even date again,cause how do I let in anyone while I have locked myself out too and misplaced the keys. It is a world full of misfortunes and there is no time or space for a weak man. So years I have collected the stones that came my way and build the walls more taller,and now no man can reach to my other side of reality,and as it is the norm, drink the bitter water,eat the soar food,listen to the weird music and fake the midnight sleep.and before all that,spice it with a prayer,and the cycle becomes the story of the lonely  ,or what the world would say; ‘Self-made Mad man’