Kisite Island is public land, says Swazuri

Kisite Island, Swiss investor Alessandro Torriani has advertised to sell it at Sh1.5 billion. Photo/Elkana Jacob

Tuesday, April 30, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYI

NATIONAL Land Commission chairperson Mohamed Swazuri over the weekend toured the disputed Kisite island in the South Coast to establish its ownership.
A foreign investor of Swiss origin, Alessandro Torrian, had advertised the island for sale, sparking an uproar among tourism players and residents.
Torrian had offered the park for Sh1.5 billion after claiming ownership of the park under a 99-year leasehold title which had been converted from freehold status. The island is 40km from Ukunda islands and is 39 square kilometres in size.
Speaking to the Star, Swazuri said the commission has established that the land is still a gazetted national park under a notice dated 1973. “We have found out that the land is a public land and no one can purchase protected land under gazette notice,” he said.
He said he initially met the investor who showed him titles to the piece of land before consulting the Kenya Wildlife Service officials. KWS and Torrian are in an ownership dispute.
“He showed us the documents but there might have been foul play because no one can engage in transacting a public owned national park,” he said. He said KWS provided a gazette notice of 1973 which established the park as public land.
Swazuri said he will convene another meeting with the investor to establish if he has a de-gazettement notice which would have allowed him to purchase the land.
“A piece of land which has been initially gazetted can only be sold if the government de-gazettes it,” he said. The Kisite Mpunguti island has been at the centre of controversy after the Kwale county government levied a one USD (about Sh85) fee to all tourists visiting the site.
The county added the levy as part of a USD 20 (Sh1,680) revenue target by KWS from February this year. The fee has sparked uproar from stakeholders in the sector.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-118812/kisite-island-public-land-says-swazuri

Joho unveils a Sh22 billion budget

Mombasa Governor Ali Hassan Joho during the campaign trails. Photo/Elkana Jacob

Monday, April 29, 2013 - 00:00 -- CHARLES MGHENYI
MOMBASA governor Hassan Joho at the weekend unveiled a Sh22.3 billion budget for the financial year 2013-14. Speaking during the function at the Mombasa Women Social Hall, Joho said his government wants to develop Mombasa.
“We have to ensure that parts like Mwakirunge develop at the same pace like the Central Business District,” he said. The 9-point budget focused on development, education, drug abuse, health and infrastructure.
Sh500 million was set aside to fight drug abuse and building of rehabilitation centres. The governor said they will have a special focus on the tourism sector which is the pillar in the county's economy.
“We have set aside Sh1.6 billion for the tourism sector which plays a major role in our economy,” said Joho. “We are going to brand Mombasa as the best tourist destination in the East Africa and reclaim our lost glory.”
The budget provided for lighting Mombasa and opening of the Southern and Northern corridors to decongest the heavy traffic. Joho said the Central Government will help fund the Dongo Kundu and Changamwe-Mshomoroni bypasses to reduce traffic jam.
He said the two projects wwill cost approximately Sh30 billion which is not part of the county's budget. Joho saidthe county has received Sh4.6 billion from the central government and Sh3.7 billion from the local revenue collected.
The county budget estimates has a deficit of about Sh13.2 billion. The governor asked debtors to pay up so that the county government can run smoothly. “We welcome donors and investors to support us in developing Mombasa,” Joho said.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-118678/joho-unveils-sh22-billion-budget

Beware of Dengue fever, Kemri warns

 

A patient admitted at the coast General hospital. Photo/ file

Saturday, April 27, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYI
MORE than 140 cases of the Dengue fever have been reported in Mombasa county, according to a report by Kenya Medical Research Institute.
Speaking during a breakfast meeting yesterday, Kemfri indicated 58 out of 143 cases reported tested positive. Abdinoor Mohamed, a Kemfri researcher, said the cases are evenly distributed across the county. He said they are working on a way to eradicate it.
“The fever has no treatment or vaccination. The only treatment is securing the breeding grounds for the mosquitoes,” Mohamed said. He said it is the second case of the fever outbreak reported in the country since 1982 and they are still investigating the cause.
The researcher said the results of 34 tests are still pending. According to the report, no one has succumbed due to the fever. “Our doctors are ensuring that the disease is contained. No patient has died from the fever,” said Mohamed. However, a doctor from Mombasa Hospital at the meeting said a person suspected to have the disease died three days ago.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-118548/beware-dengue-fever-kemri-warns

Kwale governor to name county cabinet

Kwale county Governor Salim Mvurya centre  during the official opening of the SME training in Kwale. Photo/ Charles Mghenyi

THURSDAY, APRIL 25, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYI

KWALE governor Salim Mvurya is set to unveil his cabinet on tomorow. Speaking during the launch of small and micro-enterprise training at the Kwale school of government yesterday, Mvurya said they will have ministries with a special focus on development.

“We will have a Ministry of Trade and Investment in our cabinet. This will ensure the region develops in the business sector,” he said. The governor said Kwale has a lot of natural resources which need to be tapped to benefit the residents.

He said the Trade and Investment ministry will focus on the region's resources and will involve citizens in making the county successful. “We have been going round the county wards collecting information on what we should focus on in our budget,” Mvurya said.

He said the residents undergoing the SME training will be given loans to start the businesses. The governor said he is looking forward for the President's pledge to use the Sh6 billion set aside for an election run-off to also benefit the women and youth in Kwale. The county has been ranked among the poorest.

“We want to eradicate poverty in Kwale by ensuring public funds are well budgeted for and spent accordingly,” he said. The Coast Development Authority managing director James Kahindi Maingi said the training project will enhance the standards of living of the residents.

http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-118198/kwale-governor-name-county-cabinet

Task force head to Kwale, Kilifi

Residents demonstrating over land grabbing in coast. Photo/file

Wednesday, April 24, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYI

The grievances task force which had its first public hearing in Mombasa at the weekend is scheduled to hold others in Kwale and Kilifi. Joseph Kibwana, the chair of the committee, said they are working on the venues of the two public hearings.
 Speaking to the Star, Kibwana said they are working closely with the county governments. He said they will communicate the venues in newspapers and radio stations.
“We will be having the next meetings on May 4 in Kwale and Kilifi counties running simultaneous in a bid to save time,” he said on phone. He said the Kwale meeting is open to everyone including the Mombasa Republican Council representatives.
“Our MRC brothers should not shy away from the hearings so that their grievances can be heard and addressed,” he said. The chairman wants the sessions to be interactive.
 The task force will then travel to Tana River, Lamu and wind up with Taita Taveta county to meet the locals over the historical injustices they have undergone.
 http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-118036/task-force-head-kwale-kilifi

Dockers back MP's demand

Tuesday, April 23, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYI
THE Dock Workers Union have backed the MPs in their push for salary increment. In a statement to the press, the union general secretary Simon Sang said the Salaries and Remuneration Commission should create a dialogue with labour experts to see when the salaries should be cut.
 “The only situation where salaries are cut is where a balance sheet of an organization is red and there are indications that recovery will take some time,” he said in the statement.
 Sang said the commission should not cut salaries but bridge the gap between the highest paid and the lowest. He said they support the decision by COTU secretary general Francis Atwoli that SRC's move to cut the MPs' salaries is not justified.
“They should consider the Akiwumi Report of 2006 which indicated the magnitude and responsibility of the the legislators,” he said. “SRC should not use their constitutional protection to suppress the right of the employees including parliamentarians. International labour practise demand that an employer cannot reduce any benefit that have been enjoyed for more than six months.”
 MPs have been in a tussle with SRC over salaries after their Sh851,000 per month was cut down to Sh555,696 and now the maximum pay an MP can earn is pegged at Sh740,927.
 President Uhuru Kenyatta, in his official parliament opening speech, said the MPs should consider the wage bill which stands at 12 per cent beyond the seven per cent internationally required standard.
 Igembe South MP Mithika Linturi caused an uproar from the public and civil societies when he openly defended the MPs’ bid to demand for salaries, threatening to disband it.
 http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-117844/dockers-back-mps-demand

Kibwana group starts session

Monday, April 22, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYI

The task force appointed by Raila Odinga to address coast grievances had its first public hearing at Bandari college in Mombasa at the weekend. The chairman of the committee former retired chief of general staff, Joseph Kibwana said they will go round all the six counties to conduct the hearings.
Speaking to the press on the sidelines of the function, Kibwana said they have conducted a series of meetings with historians at the coast to understand the historical injustices of the natives.
“We have done several internal meetings, collected data from previous task force formed and archives to come up with concrete solutions,” he said. The chairman said they will engage the Mombasa Republican Council members in their talks to understand their grievances and ways of solving them.
“MRC problems represent the coastal people plights,we need to hear from them and come up with permanent solution,” he said. Kibwana said they have three more months to compile their report and might ask for an extension if they are unable to work within the time limit.
The team will now report to the Deputy President as per the new constitution. “The commission has been housed under the Deputy President's office, and we can confidently say our future is bright because of the support given,” he said.
The team is tasked with the responsibility to develop a road map and implementation plan for its recommendations. In a gazette notice issued on December 7 last year, the team is required to review the socio-economic and political development, against the aspirations of Vision 2030.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-117667/kibwana-group-starts-session

Dengue campaigns starts in Jomvu after a reported case

Ailing child in Hospital, Dengue fever is spread like Malaria. photo/file

Saturday, April 20, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYI

PUBLIC health officers from Port Reitz Hospital in Mombasa have embarked on a community health campaign against Dengue Fever after one person was diagnosed with the ailment in the area.
Peter Masika, 33, a resident of 'Staff Kwa Shee' area in Mikindani was diagnosed with the disease early this month at Aga Khan Hospital.
He first fell ill on March 31 and was treated at a local private hospital where doctors misdiagnosed it as malaria.
He became worse and was taken to the Aga Khan hospital where blood samples, taken to Nairobi for comprehensive medical analysis, showed he was suffering from the disease which is spread by the anopheles mosquito.
This comes after Coast provincial director of public health Anisa Omar late last month said the government had contained the disease.
Jomvu DO Kenneth Gitonga said they got information about the victim and informed Public Health officers who came and secured the area by spraying it.
“We had to take immediate action to ensure that nobody else gets infected with this disease which spreads and presents itself like malaria,” he said.
Gitonga said they are working closely with the Public Health Ministry to ensure that all mosquito breeding grounds are sprayed with insecticides.
He said public health officers and provincial administration in Jomvu have embarked on community sensitisation to enlighten residents and reduce the panic which has grasped majority of them.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-117570/dengue-campaigns-starts-jomvu-after-reported-case

Mercedes Benz Trucks get free inspection

Mercedes Benz trucks. Photo/Google Images

Friday, April 19, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYI
MERCEDES Benz truck owners in Mombasa yesterday received a free inspection service on their trucks from the DT Dobie vehicle dealers.
 A combined team from the Truck Division of Mercedes Benz in Germany and DT Dobie senior technical team carried out the inspection scheduled to go on until April 27 in Changamwe area.
 The free service for fleet owners will give them full reports showing the work and spares which are needed to keep their trucks in good condition.
 In a statement issued to the press, Jost Forchner, the leader of the technical team from Germany, said linking with Mercedes Benz truck dealers around the world to run service camps is part of the company's strategy of back up for their customers.
 “The inspections which we carry out is extremely detailed, we like to call ourselves “The Flying Doctors” because we travel around the world assisting our customers.” he said.
 Steve Farrel, the director of after sales services at DT Dobie said the programme demonstrates support to their customers by bringing experts near their work stations.
 “We are convinced that workshop and procurement managers of companies running fleets of Mercedes trucks will enhance their knowledge on achieving the best results from their investments,” he said
 The director said there are a lot benefits in using genuine Mercedes Benz spare parts which carry a warranty unlike the counterfeit products.
 “There is advantage of using genuine Mercedes Benz spares which carry a warranty unlike second tier parts. It is crucial to emphasize this for long term economy and safety,” he said.
 DT Dobie Driver Trainer of Mercedes Benz Heavy Commercial Vehicles Joe Mungai gave guidance and explained the features of the latest Mercedes trucks to drivers. The camp is scheduled to take place in Nairobi, Nakuru, Kisumu and Eldoret later in the year.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-117407/mercedes-benz-trucks-get-free-inspection

Queries over Tana killings

Right-Sacked high court judge Grace Nzioka who chaired the commission of inquiry on Tana Killings. Photo/file

Wednesday, April 17, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYI

The report on Tana Delta clashes has not been published even after the Judicial Commission of Inquiry submitted the report to immediate former President Kibaki.
The delay in publishing the report has angered civil society groups and Tana residents who claim the rights of victim’s families to know who killed their loved ones is being violated.
But one of the commissioners said they completed the report by the end of February this year. The commission was led by sacked High Court judge Grace Nzioka and investigated the Tana Delta clashes.
“The report was presented to the (former) President. It is up to them to decide whether to make it public,” he said. He said the sacking of Justice Nzioka on March 23 by the Judges and Magistrates Vetting Board did not affect the commission’s work as they had already compiled the report.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-117040/queries-over-tana-killings

Tour players reject levy

 

An aerial view of Kisite Island

Wednesday, April 17, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYI

TOURISM players have rejected a levy hike by Kwale county government on all tourists visiting the region. Mombasa and Coast Tourist Association executive director Millicent Odhiambo said the levy is illegal.
The Kwale county government imposed a USD1 (Sh85) hike above the normal USD20 (Sh1,700) charged at gates to all parks by KWS starting February this year.
Odhiambo told the Star tourism players have not been consulted. “We heard about it and when we followed up the matter, the county government officials hampered our efforts,” she said.
“We know the county wants to make quick money from the sector. But it was unscrupulous for them to impose the charges without following the right channels,” she said.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-117036/tour-players-reject-levy

Supreme Court Judgment on The Presidential Petition

Here is the full version of the Supreme Court Judgment on The Presidential Petition [Full Report]

REPUBLIC OF KENYA IN THE SUPREME COURT OF KENYA AT NAIROBI (Coram: W.M. Mutunga, Chief Justice and President of the Supreme Court; P.K. Tunoi; M.K. Ibrahim; J.B. Ojwang; S.C. Wanjala; N.S. Ndungu, SCJJ.) PETITION NO. 5 OF 2013 -BETWEEN- RAILA ODINGA ..................................................................PETITIONER -AND- 1. THE INDEPENDENT ELECTORAL AND BOUNDARIES COMMISSION 2. AHMED ISSACK HASSAN 3. UHURU KENYATTA 4. WILLIAM SAMOEI RUTO .................RESPONDENTS AS CONSOLIDATED WITH PETITION NO. 3 OF 2013 -BETWEEN- 1. MOSES KIARIE KURIA 2.DENIS NJUE ITUMBI 3. FLORENCE JEMATIAH SERGON ........................PETITIONERS -AND- 1. AHMED ISSACK HASSAN .....................RESPONDENTS 2. THE INDEPENDENT ELECTORAL AND BOUNDARIES COMMISSION AND AS CONSOLIDATED WITH PETITION NO. 4 OF 2013 -BETWEEN- 1. GLADWELL WATHONI OTIENO 2. ZAHID RAJAN ............................PETITIONERS 1 -AND- 1. AHMED ISSACK HASSAN 2. THE INDEPENDENT ELECTORAL AND BOUNDARIES COMMISSION 3. UHURU KENYATTA 4. WILLIAM SAMOEI RUTO .....................RESPONDENTS JUDGMENT A. THE PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION OF 4TH MARCH, 2013
Here is the Link:-
http://www.scribd.com/doc/136198180/Supreme-Court-Full-judgement-on-election-petition-April-16-2013

Poor records delay cases - magistrate

 

Mombasa law court photo/file

Monday, April 15, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYI

THE prosecution should be blamed for the prolonged court cases, a senior magistrate has said.
Shanzu senior magistrate James Ombura said court cases are delayed due to lack of cooperation and poor record keeping from the prosecution.  He said they take too long to present their evidence.
Speaking on the sidelines of a security and drug meeting convened by Kisauni DC Tom Anjere, Ombura said the judiciary is fully committed to justice delivery.
“The court depends largely on the evidence presented to it from the prosecution, but when they delay in presenting evidence, then justice will always be delayed,” he said.
Ombura said poor record keeping by the police lead to the release of hard core criminals who deserve harsh punishment.
He added drugs penalties are always harsh when one is found guilty but criminals are always released for lack of evidence.
“If one is found with bhang for own consumption, the law says a minimum of 10 years imprisonment should be given and 20 years for the peddlers,” he said.
He said hard drugs like heroine attract life imprisonment but no one has ever been sentenced because the prosecution always fail to present concrete evidence in court.
However, the Kisauni deputy police boss Thomas Sungut defended the police saying they face a lot of challenges dealing with drug cases.
Sangut said drugs seized need to be tested by the government chemist for approval and drug barons are always well connected which leads to evidence being altered.
Anjere said they are committed to ensure the area becomes a drugs-free region by working with both the police and the community in arresting the barons and the peddlers.
“It is no longer business as usual. I give the village elders and chiefs the authority to even report the police officers who are involved in the drug business,” he said.
He added they will also set aside rewards for officers who do commendable job in fighting the drug business.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-116661/poor-records-delay-cases-magistrate

MP Mwinyi vows to improve education in Changamwe

Omar Mwinyi signing the late David Okuta condolence book at Knut offices Mombasa. Photo/Charles Mghenyi

Friday, April 12, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYI
Changamwe MP Omar Mwinyi has promised to give education a priority after starting his work officially. Mwinyi said he will form an education committee which will include teachers from his constituency chat a way forward in improving the standards.
Speaking at Knut offices in Mombasa after signing the condolence book of the departed Knut national secretary general David Okuta, he said education has deteriorated.
“We will refurbish all schools so we have a good learning environment for our kids to improve education,” he said. The MP said all the schools should have access to electricity so children can have extra time to do their assignments within school premises.
Mwinyi said he will work with all elected county representatives. He said the Knut offices in Magongo need to be relocated to a suitable environment.
Knut secretary general Mombasa county Dan Aloo said he is certain all teachers' problems will be solved as they have one of their own in parliament. Aloo said Mwinyi has been a teacher in Mombasa county and he is well aware of the teachers' plights.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-116370/mp-mwinyi-vows-improve-education-changamwe

We will work for you, says Speaker

Mombasa town hall where county assembly will do their sittings.

Friday, April 12, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYI

THE Mombasa county assembly will work for the wellbeing of the locals to improve their living standard, the county deputy speaker has said. Rashid Mswaba said they will ensure they make legislation that favours the locals.
“We us legislators are free to work with anyone to ensure lives of the Coastal people, especially Mombasa, are improved,” he said. Speaking when addressing the Knut officials in Mombasa, he said the county assembly will work day and night for the sake of its people.
“We invite teachers and all other residents to present their problems through the county representatives so they can be looked into,” he said.
The Airport ward county representative said the locals elected them so they can represent them at the county level and they have no option but to do so.
He said Mombasa needs to improve educationally and it is by the help of the teachers that they will achieve this. Mswaba said the county will be fully operational immediately after the induction course of the county officers which is ongoing.
Mombasa interim county clerk Tubman Otieno had earlier said operations will start formally after the appointment and induction of county officials. “We have not started any formal operations because the officers have not yet undergone the induction training,” said Tubman.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-116368/we-will-work-you-says-speaker

Mwinyi hails the late Okuta

Friday, April 12, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYI

Changamwe MP Omar Mwinyi has paid tribute to the late Knut national secretary general David Okuta. Mwinyi described Okuta as a brave fighter who had the teachers’ welfare at heart. Mwinyi is a former teacher having taught in several schools in Mombasa.
Speaking after signing the condolence book at the Knut county offices In Magongo, the MP described Okuta as an important individual in teaching fraternity.
“We thank him for the time he dedicated in fighting for the wellbeing of the teachers throughout the country,” he said. He said he will work with the Knut office and facilitate transport for few teachers to attend their colleague's funeral in Nyanza.
“After saying goodbye to our good friend it will be nice to have someone from the region to vie for the Knut secretary general seat at the national level,” he said.
The MP said if an official from the county is elected for the post, they will be in a position to champion for improved education standards. Dan Aloo, the executive member of the union from Coast region, said they will consider the advise. Aloo urged the MP to ensure teachers’ plights are well addressed while in Parliament.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-116371/mwinyi-hails-late-okuta

Mtana hits out at Balala, Mwakwere over Cabinet

Tendai Mtana, independent candidate who lost in Mombasa Governor race. Photo/Norbert Allan

Thursday, April 11, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYI
A Mombasa politician says ministers who lost in the May 4 general election should not seek Cabinet positions. Tendai Mtana, who was an independent candidate, said Najib Balala, Charity Ngilu and Chirau Mwakwere should not be appointed Cabinet secretaries.
Speaking to the Star yesterday, Mtana said Balala and Mwakwere should give way for fresh blood from the Coast as they represent the older generation who were rejected by the people.
“I have a feeling President Uhuru would work better with the youth than with these old men who are scrambling for appointments in the new government,” he said.
These sentiments come after Balala told Kiambu MP William Kabogo to let President Uhuru and Deputy President William Ruto make independent decisions on who to appoint in the Cabinet.
Mtana said Coast youth need to be represented in the government and he would be humbled to work with the Jubilee government if appointed. “Where is their vision for the Coast people they have been working for all these years?
We need visionary and youthful leaders now,” Mtana said as he hit out at Balala and Mwakwere. Mtana said the Mijikenda youth need an individual who has networks and fresh ideas for the region to develop.
“These people have been in government for many years and they did not work for the Coast youth. Instead they have been serving their own interests. We need a change of guard,” he said.
The businessman said Balala and Mwakwere should stop using their political party brands as an advantage to secure positions in the Cabinet. Mtana was the only independent candidate for the Mombasa governor in the March 4 election.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-116192/mtana-hits-out-balala-mwakwere-over-cabinet

Mtana pledges to work with governor Joho

Tendai Lewa Mtana, he was the only independent candidate in Mombasa governor race. Photo/ Norbert Allan.

Wednesday, April 10, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYI

Tendai Lewa Mtana, Mombasa’s only independent governor candidate in the March 4 general election, has vowed to work with the Hassan Joho.
He is the second governor poll loser to pledge to work with Joho after Lawrence Macharia. Macharia attended Joho's swearing-in. Mtana said Joho invited him to work together for Mombasa residents and he canot turn down the request.
“The campaign period is over. We cannot continue politicking, but join hands with the rivals for the wellbeing of our people,” he said. Speaking to the Star on the phone, Mtana said he has pulled out of the petition which Suleiman Shahbal and other losers have filed against Joho's victory.
In the petition, Shahbal wants the court to nullify Joho's victory on grounds that the election was rigged and marred by malpractices. “I pulled out immediately after I learnt that some individuals are using the court process to settle their own scores,” Mtana said.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-116028/mtana-pledges-work-governor-joho

TB prevalence in Mombasa and Malindi slums, say public health chief Omar

Slum area in Bangla Mikindani area Mombasa.

Tuesday, April 9, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYI

Tuberculosis is prevalent at slums in the Coast, the director of public health and sanitation at the province has warned.  Director Anisa Omar blamed the high population at the slums for the rapid spread of the disease. 
Speaking to the Star, Omar said TB is common in the slums because of poor air circulation and ventilation. “We diagnose new cases every month and a large number comes from Moroto, Kalahari and other slums in Mombasa,” she said.
“Overcrowding increases the TB infection rate because we all know the disease is airborne.” Omar said Malindi has a high infection rate too. However, she said the Public Health ministry is working to ensure that TB is contained in the region.
Omar said the cure rate in the province is 95 per cent with almost everyone who is diagnosed with the infection fully recovering. She urged TB patients to adhere to doctor's instructions.
Omar said the outbreak of Dengue disease a few weeks ago has been fully contained in Mombasa. She said they have not recorded any new case. “The ministry is keeping surveillance by ensuring it controls the breeding grounds for mosquitoes which spread the disease,” Omar said.
Last month eight people were admitted to a private hospital in Mombasa after they were suspected to have contacted the disease.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-115850/tb-prevalence-mombasa-and-malindi-slums-say-public-health-chief-omar

Mombasa to begin work after trainig of staff

Mombasa town centre

Tuesday, April 9, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYI

MOMBASA shall start operating formally after the appointment and induction of county officials. “We have not started any formal operations because the officers who are to work in the county assembly and other positions have not yet undergone the induction training,” said  interim county clerk Tubman Otieno.
Speaking to the Star on the phone, he said they need time to ensure that all the officers undergo initial training on county governance. The transition process is expected to take some time as the devolved government is a new system which requires staff to undergo special training.
Otieno said no specific time has been set for the county officials to formally begin their duties. Last week during a meeting with the governors in Naivasha, Finance minister Njeru Githae said Treasury is ready to disburse the county funds.
Githae said they are waiting for word from the Transition Authority. Mombasa and other counties may not be able to access the Sh9.8 billion due to the process of appointing the new county staffs.
Some Sh20 million has been released to each county to fund their running costs whereas the government has allocated Sh9.8 billion for county  operations between April and June.
However the Sh9.8 billion cannot be released to the counties until the executive committee is put into place.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-115849/mombasa-begin-work-after-trainig-staff

Coast youth yet to pick 38,000 IDs

Youth showing off his identity card.

Monday, April 8, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYICOAST registrar of persons Aggrey Masai has urged youths from across the region to collect their identity cards in different parts of the region. Speaking to the Star in his office over the weekend, Masai said there are over 38,000 uncollected ID cards in their offices.
The uncollected IDs may be hindering some 38,000 youths from getting jobs, something that may have done a great deal to reduce the unemployment rate.
“Coast region has 38,367 ID's in all our offices which have not been collected. I urge youths to collect this important document which opens up their future in terms of employment,” he said.
“Without an ID one can not secure a reasonable employment. It is up to the youths from Mombasa to make good use of this important document,” he added.
The registrar said Mombasa county is the most affected with 21, 154 uncollected ID's followed by Kilifi with 5,175. Kwale, Taita Taveta, Tana River and Lamu counties have 4,000, 3,000, 1,500 and less than 1,000 uncollected IDs respectively.
He added that despite Kisauni district being accused of having many idle youths, it has recorded a good number of youths who have registered and collected IDs over the last six months.
“Kisauni has been very impressive. For example we have 5,000 IDs every week and by Friday, about half of them are usually collected,” Masai said.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-115688/coast-youth-yet-pick-38000-ids

Ex-MRC boss says youth who surrendered aren't members

MRC members carrying high their secession banner. Photo/ Norbert Allan

Saturday, April 6, 2013 - 00:00 -- CHARLES MGHENYI
FORMER Mombasa republican council official Amani Chifwete has denied the 17 members who surrendered to the authorities on Wednesday were genuine members.
Chifwete former MRC chairman in Vikwatani said he did not notice any of the members who presented themselves to the government in Ukunda DO's office.Speaking to the Star, Chifwete said he tried to identify the youths but he did not know any of them and suspects that someone was behind the move.
“I tried to identify the youths but I could not recognize any of them. I called some of the officials who are still in MRC but they also confirmed those were not their members,” he said on phone.
However, he supports MRC members giving in to the government but said the real members who are well known should be the ones to be seen on the television making the move.
“Those might be fake members, I have been an official and I know most of them, I do not support secession but let the government engage real members and officials and not imposters,” he added.
He said the calls by the MRC to secede are unachievable and they should join hands with the new county government to push up for their grievances to be addressed.
“Let the officials and MRC members drop their secession calls and push for land and resources allocation through the new devolved government,” he urged.Chifwete who was once an MRC chair in vikwatani and a vocalist for the secession group said separation is unattainable at this time and they should use the county governance to fight for their rights.
He added that the only way for the separatist group to find solution to their long time historical injustice was to cooperate with the authorities.He argued, “Western African countries have united under Ecowas, east Africa under EAC, Kenya can not afford to disintegrate while other countries are forming single regional blocks.”
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-115563/ex-mrc-boss-says-youth-who-surrendered-arent-members

Mombasa leaders book 30 buses for swearing-in

President-elect Uhuru Kenyatta shakes hand with bishop Mary Kagendo in Mombasa Photo/Elkna Jacob

Saturday, April 6, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYI

JUBILEE coalition from the Coast province is expected to leave for Nairobi on Monday evening to attend the swearing in ceremony of the president-elect Uhuru Kenyatta at Kasarani.
The delegation led by the coalition campaigner during the last general election Farid Ahmed said they will show up for the ceremony.
Speaking to the press in his office in Mombasa, Farid said all is set for the big day and they expect a big number of delegates from Mombasa to attend the inauguration ceremony.
“We have hired 30 buses to transport the delegates to Moi sports centre Kasarani to attend the swearing in of our president-elect Uhuru and his deputy William Ruto,” he said.
He added that they expect to have a colourful ceremony in Nairobi as Uhuru Kenyatta is sworn in as the fourth president of the republic of Kenya.Farid was the man behind the Jubilee campaigns at the coast region which was perceived as a Cord stronghold.
He said it was unfortunate that many resident in coast refused to vote for any Jubilee leader which might see it being left out by the government in developments.However, Farid has expressed optimism that Uhuru Government will not sideline the coast region for not having elected leaders from Jubilee coalition on March 4.
“We are optimistic that Uhuru will work with all the people from across the country despite their political background and affiliation” he added.President Uhuru Kenyatta and his deputy William Ruto are expected to be sworn in on Tuesday April 9 at Moi Sports centre Kasarani.
Final touches of the event are ongoing in Kasarani where different countries dignitaries are expected to show up.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-115562/mombasa-leaders-book-30-buses-swearing#disqus_thread

Coast teachers pay tribute to Okuta

Late Knut secretary general David Okuta Osiany Photo/file

Friday, April 5, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYI
TEACHERS in Coast region have paid tribute to the departed Kenya National Union of Teachers secretary general David Okuta Osiany. A union Coast executive member Dan Aloo said Okuta had vowed to fearlessly fight for better living standards of all teachers.
“Okuta once said quality educations means quality teachers and we cannot have quality teachers living in horrible conditions,” Aloo said. He said teachers will remember the fallen unionist for ensuring teachers lead a decent life.
Okuta died at Aga Khan Hospital, Nairobi, after developing breathing problems on Tuesday night. Late last year, he had been admitted to Aga Khan Hospital, Kisumu, after suffering from undisclosed ailment.
Okuta was also the president of the East Africa Teachers’ Association.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-115416/coast-teachers-pay-tribute-okuta

Nacada blames religious chiefs for failed projectAff

Addict using a needle to inject drug on his leg. Photo/ Charles

The programme to provide drug users at the Coast with needles and syringes failed because of propaganda from religious leaders. National Campaign Against Drug Abuse Authority said wananchi resisted the programme because of the distrust planted in their minds.
“It is unfortunate that some religious leaders went against the programme peddling propaganda without making any inquiries about the project,” said Nacada director Sheikh Juma Ngao.
The programme involved supplying drug addicts with syringes and needle to reduce the rate of HIV/Aids transmission among them. Speaking to the press on Sunday, Ngao said each addict would have been given a kit which contains a syringe, needle and methanol. The programme was to be a pilot project and had been copied from other developed countries where it has been successful.
“Some people thought the project was helping the youth continue to abuse drugs not knowing that the kit included a medical substance that helps cut down the addiction appetite (the methanol),” he said. He said more rehabilitation centres should be built in regions where drug use is rampant.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-112738/nacada-blames-religious-chiefs-failed-project

Poll delays in Mombasa as IEBC clerks open voting centres late

Long queue as voter wait to cast their votes Photo/file

Tuesday, March 5, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYI

THE voter turnout in Mombasa County was high despite the early morning incident of police attacks in Changamwe and Kisauni constituencies.
In Nyali constituency, Kongowea and Maweni primary schools polling stations opened at 7:30am about one and half hour late.Residents faulted the IEBC preparedness in the election day after finding out that the stations were still closed and the clerks and officials had not arrived.
Pauline Wawuda a resident of Nyali constituency said she woke up early to vote so that she can continue with his work at the shop.“I woke up early and rushed to the station only to find the station still closed and I wanted to come back and continue with my daily business,” she said.
In Jomvu constituency Taratibu social hall voters declined to vote if the BVR machine could not work as they had expected.By 10 am the exercise had not yet started despite IEBC using the manual register to conduct the exercise.
Changamwe primary school, Changamwe social hall and Changamwe secondary polling stations were opened but the voting exercise started at around 9:30am due to unavoidable hiccups.
In Mvita constituency, Public health department polling centre where senator aspirant Najib Balala casted his vote at around 8:30am experienced long queues of voters.
In Kiembeni Primary School, Kisauni constituency, there were issues with the alphabetical listings of the voters, which led to delays, and also the BVR  machines that were slow and hanging.
An early morning black out in most parts of Kisauni area, also led to confusion, with most polling stations prompting to use only once computer, as others were taken for charging.
Many parts were calm with security officers manning the stations in case of the any emerging chaos.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-110485/poll-delays-mombasa-iebc-clerks-open-voting-centres-late

Modest celebration in Coast over polls

 

Jubilee supporters celebrating after the announcement.

Monday, March 11, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYI
Little celebration met Uhuru Kenyatta's victory in the presidential election in Mombasa. The celebrations in the streets of Mombasa lasted less than 30 minutes. The region largely voted for Uhuru's opponent Raila Odinga who came second.
It was business as usual in the town unlike in other major towns in the Rift Valley and Central regions.
A small crowd on Digo Road chanted jubilee songs  but even this did not last long.
A planned thanksgiving prayer meeting at the Tononoka Grounds was cancelled after police refused to license it. Mombasa police boss Kipkemboi Rop denied the TNA officials a permit saying the meeting need to be organised properly.
“Celebrations need moderation and we cannot allow people to overdo it. Let them arrange for a better way so that we can be able to offer security to everyone,” Rop said on the phone. He said the planned meeting was abrupt  and there was no security in place to handle it.
Other security officers told the Star that the proposed  meeting was risky and that it could be perceived by Cord supporters as " a mocking session"  against them.
They said such a meeting may spark chaos as "the wounds" of elections lose are still raw. No  traffic snarl-ups were experienced as the jubilee supporters drove in the streets  as they celebrate their candidate's win.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-111402/modest-celebration-coast-over-polls

Business gradually resumes in Mombasa as tension reduce

 

Business as usual at the Mombasa port. Photo/file

Wednesday, March 6, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYI

A day after the general election caused tension in some parts of Mombasa town, business was gradually getting back to normal yesterday.
On Monday, the town was deserted, Businesspeople shut their premises to go and vote but there was also fear of possible violence.
While people waited for the results yesterday, the situation in town was slowly getting back to normal with some shops operating. There was some people walking around town.
Some restaurants, which opened yesterday, recorded a good number of people most of whom watching the live streaming of the results from the Bomas of Kenya. At Kenlees restaurant in the CBD, a sizeable number of people followed the results live on TV .
The public service vehicles were back on the roads after a day of anxiety. The fares, which had shot up on Monday due to the scarcity of vehicles, were yesterday back to normal.
On Monday, fares had doubled in some areas including Bamburi-Likoni and Bamburi-Docks routes. Normally, the fare is Sh50 but was Sh100 on Monday.
“Any of the two presidential candidates will have to concede if defeated because IEBC has done an impressive work to ensure there is transparency in tallying of the votes,” one of the customers said as he enjoyed his breakfast.
Most people interviewed by the Star exuded confidence that the results were genuine and they were ready to accept the outcome of the results. On average personal cars were many compared to the public means of transport.
At the Mombasa port, usual business had not resumed following the decision by many truck owners to shy away from operating. Bernard Osero, the head of corporate affairs said on Monday there was no single delivery recorded by the close of the business.
He said they expect that things would normalize from tomorrow because the anxiety has cooled down following the beefed up security in and around Mombasa. Security personnel were seen patrolling in most parts of Mombasa.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-110692/business-gradually-resumes-mombasa-tension-reduces

Business slow at port as truckers stay away

 

Containers pilling up at the Mombasa port.

Tuesday, March 5, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYI
Truck operators at the Mombasa port yesterday kept away despite raising concerns of cargo pile up.
KPA head of corporate affairs Bernard Osero said normal business operations of loading and offloading of cargo went on as usual but no single truck entered the port yesterday.
Speaking to the Star, Osero said in other public holidays business at the port of Mombasa always goes on as usual but yesterday many truck owners were afraid to operate.
 “At the port business always goes on even on holidays but today many truck owners have shied away because of the tension during the election period,” he said.
He said there were three ships at the terminal loading and offloading imports and exports but the cargoes would have to wait until the trucks start operating.
“There is uncertainty and the violence erupting so many people do not want to take the risk and have decided to wait until the elections are over,” he added.
 He added that over the last week the delivery rate at the port towards the weekend was high and this showed that business men were in a rush to clear all the cargo before the election day.
 Osero said on Thursday 1,226 twenty feet equivalent units were delivered, Friday 1,233, Saturday 1192 and Sunday 588 units left the port.
He said from Thursday to Saturday the delivery rate was high but on Sunday it fell to five hundred and this could be due to security concerns during the election day.
Osero added that on normal business days 800-1,000 containers leave the port but from Thursday to Saturday the delivery was way above this.
The security at the port was beefed up and no major incidents in and around the port were reported.
Meanwhile, many shops and supermarkets in Mombasa central business district remained closed for the better part of the day.
A spot check by the Star showed that the town was deserted with the three major supermarkets along Digo road were all closed. Major shopping malls also remained closed.
Tuskys, A-one and Budget supermarkets remained closed the whole day and all other shops in town remained closed with only a few people in town.
Matatus on the Mtwapa-Town route raised fairs their fares because of the shortage of vehicles.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-110547/business-slow-port-truckers-stay-away

Internews fights hate speech

Internews Kenya logo.

Thursday, April 4, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYI

THE National Cohesion and Integration Commission is on the lookout for people who use social media sites to spead hate messages. Internews Kenya said  NCIC has mechanisms in place to ensure hate speech is eradicated.
Speaking during a social media workshop for journalist in Mombasa, Mark Irungu a facilitator with Internews, said it is easy to track down anyone promoting violence through social media.
“Many people forget that they use genuine email addresses when they log in to their accounts. Others use their mobile phones which makes it easy to be traced,” he said.
CCK had directed all mobile service providers to register their customers before December last year and that information can be used to catch culprits.
 “With all these details in record, anyone using social media sites to peddle hate speech might find him or herself being apprehended for hate speech,” Irungu said.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-115231/internews-fights-hate-speech

Uhuru to commission new KPA berth after swearing in

Transport Minister Amos Kimunya and President elect  Uhuru Kenyatta and Deputy president-elect William Ruto

Tuesday, April 2, 2013 - 00:00 -- BY CHARLES MGHENYI
COMMISSIONING of the new berth number 19 at the Mombasa port will take place immediately the new government is sworn in.
KPA head of corporate affairs Bernard Osero said they could not have set the date for the ceremony earlier due the Cord petition against Uhuru Kenyatta’s presidential election victory.
He said: “We could not have given out the dates and we all know that then president is the one who is mandated with occasions that touch the economy of the country.”
Speaking to the Star on phone, Osero said the commissioning plans are underway and the port management is awaiting directives from the new government on the day of the event.
“We have been testing the berth from mid March. We are waiting for the new government set up before the commissioning takes place,” he said.
The port management said they are optimistic the event will be held this month to ensure the berth becomes fully operational.The commissioning of the new berth may be the first State event for Uhuru, who toured the port a week after IEBC declared him president-elect.
He pledged to create a free port and allayed fears that the facility will be privatised.Berth 19 is expected to have annual handling capacity of 200,000 twenty foot equivalent units (TEUs) and will be a major boost to the economy.
The berth will ensure the expansion of the ship quay area at the container terminal to 840 metres as the container staking yard will increase by about 15 acres.
The new berth has been under construction since July 2011

http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-114900/uhuru-commission-new-kpa-berth-after-swearing

Invigilators demand pay

LAST year’s KCPE and KCSE examination in- vigilators have not received their payments from Knec. Coast Knut executive member Dan Aloo said yesterday teachers were to be paid immediately the results were announced but are yet to receive their dues.
He said Knec indicated teachers would be paid after re-registration on Knec’s website. However, logging in to the website takes too long and many rural teachers do not have access to the internet. He said they will plan a peaceful demonstration next week if Knec does not pay them their allowances.
http://www.the-star.co.ke/news/article-115055/invigilators-demand-pay

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