Public Works Ministry has No Single Earth Mover Omutata

Clive Ayuko

Nairobi, Kenya 19th June 2024

The state has become a mere collector of taxes and not a provider of services. This was according to Busia County Senator Hon. Okiya Omutata who while making the closing remarks which can only be described as  satirical in a public participation forum organized by the National Democratic Institute at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre yesterday afternoon.

Hon Omutata took issue with the Ministry of Public Works who he argued does not have a single earth Mover taking note that in times of catastrophies private companies are called and paid exorbitantly to help in the rescue efforts.

AUDITOR GENERAL REPORT FAILS TO MEET THRESHOLD SET IN CONSTITUTION

Nairobi, Kenya 19th June 2024

Clive Ayuko

The Auditor General’s reports fail to meet the threshold set in the Constitution of Kenya 2010. This is according to Busia Senator Hon. Okiya Omutata, who was making closing remarks at a public participation forum themed “Fiscal Transparency and Accountability,” organized by the National Democratic Institute at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre yesterday afternoon. The firebrand senator, whom various analysts describe as having run and gained political office without the backing of political mechanisms and lobbies—who often control the politicians they support—argued that the Auditor General’s reports do not meet Section 64 of the Audit Act and Section 226(6) of the Constitution of Kenya 2010. The senator further lamented that, according to the Appropriations Act, accounting must close at the end of the financial year and documents to be audited should be submitted to the Auditor General’s Office within the timeline set for the financial period, and not three years after the close of the financial year under audit.

KENYA AMONG COUNTRIES WITH LOWEST GOLD RESERVES WORLDWIDE

Nairobi, Kenya 19th June 2024

By Clive Ayuko

The glitter of gold has always been both a boon and a bane for societies and economies throughout history. During times of crisis, investors, the wealthy, and even governments seek refuge in gold as a safe haven asset. This precious metal provides stability away from the volatility of commodities like oil and natural gas, the fluctuations of equity and real estate markets, and the changing exchange rates of currencies against the US dollar. Gold remains an important reserve asset.

According to data compiled by Mushtak Parker from the World Gold Council as of April 2024, the United States holds the highest gold reserves at 8,133.50 tonnes. Germany follows with 3,350.30 tonnes, while the International Monetary Fund (IMF) holds 2,814 tonnes. Italy’s reserves amount to 2,451.80 tonnes, and France has 2,437 tonnes. Russia and China hold 2,329.60 tonnes and 2,257.50 tonnes, respectively. The European Central Bank (ECB) holds 506.70 tonnes, and the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) has 102 tonnes.

Among African countries, Algeria leads with 173.60 tonnes, followed by Egypt with 126.20 tonnes and South Africa with 125.40 tonnes. Libya holds 116.60 tonnes, while the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) has 36.50 tonnes. Morocco and Nigeria have 22.10 tonnes and 21.50 tonnes, respectively. Other African nations with notable reserves include Mauritius (12.40 tonnes), Ghana (8.70 tonnes), Tunisia (6.80 tonnes), Mozambique (3.90 tonnes), and the Bank of Central African States (BEAC) with 4.70 tonnes. Kenya’s gold reserves are relatively modest at 0.02 tonnes, or 200 kilograms, according to the World Gold Council data.

Commemorating the International Day of the African Child: Honoring the Past, Investing in the Future

By Clive Ayuko

Nairobi, Kenya, July 14th 2024

Today at St. John’s Catholic Church in Korogocho, Nairobi, the International Day of the African Child was commemorated with heartfelt tributes and reflections, significantly sponsored by the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE) and the Mastercard Foundation.

FAWE, established in 1992 by five African women ministers of education, has been a beacon of hope and progress for girls’ education across the continent. Founded with a vision to increase access and improve the quality of education for African girls, FAWE has tirelessly worked to influence policy, build capacities, and create educational opportunities in numerous African countries. Their efforts have transformed the lives of millions of young girls, empowering them to pursue their dreams and contribute to their communities.

The Mastercard Foundation, known for its dedication to youth empowerment and education in Africa, joined hands with FAWE to sponsor this crucial event. Their collaboration ensured that the voices of African children, especially girls, are heard and their rights championed.

Speaking during the event, FAWE Secretary General Mrs. Mary Goretti emphasized the importance of educational investment, stating, “Investing in African children’s education is investing in Africa’s future.”

The community gathered to not only honor the resilience of the youth but also remember the tragic Soweto Massacre of 1976. On that fateful day, thousands of black students in Soweto, South Africa, marched peacefully against the apartheid regime’s imposition of Afrikaans in schools. The protest ended in tragedy as police opened fire, killing at least 176 children. The image of Hector Pieterson, a 12-year-old boy shot and killed, being carried by a distraught comrade, became an indelible symbol of their struggle.

Today’s commemoration at St. John’s Catholic Church, supported by FAWE and the Mastercard Foundation, highlighted the ongoing fight for justice, education, and equality for African children. It served as a powerful reminder of the past sacrifices and the continued efforts needed to secure a brighter future for every African child.

The event whose theme was Education for All Time Is Now!!saw the participation of various organizations dedicated to children’s welfare and education, including Child Space, Beacon of Hope, Crime Si Poa, World Vision, Beyond the Vision, Baraka Health Net, the Refugee Consortium of Kenya, and the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR). Their collective presence underscored the united effort to uplift and protect the rights of African children.

MR. CEILING TECHNOLOGY FIRM TARGET LOCAL CONSTRUCTION SECTOR IN THE UPCOMING BUILDEXPO

Nairobi, Kenya 3rd June, 2024

Mr. Ceiling, an innovative ceiling technology firm, is set to showcase its state-of-the-art stretch ceiling technology at the highly anticipated 25th BUILDEXPO KENYA. Scheduled to take place from June 5th to 7th, this event will bring together leading exhibitors from the building and construction industry, highlighting the latest advancements and products shaping the future of construction in the region.

Mr. Ceiling’s stretch ceiling technology, a revolutionary alternative to traditional gypsum ceilings, promises significant cost savings and superior performance. This European-engineered solution, new to Sub-Saharan Africa, has already been extensively utilized in both Europe and Asia, earning a reputation for its durability and aesthetic appeal.

“Stretch ceilings offer a futuristic revolution in interior design and construction,” said Tigran Metaks, MD of Mr. Ceiling. “Unlike conventional ceilings, our technology is not only more affordable but also incredibly resilient. For instance, during the rainy season, any leaks can be easily managed by draining the water and re-sealing the ceiling, restoring it to its original state.”

The firm is targeting a diverse audience that includes homeowners, contractors, architects, and developers, aiming to introduce them to the benefits of this cutting-edge technology. The stretch ceilings are designed to provide a sleek, modern finish while being practical and easy to maintain, making them an ideal choice for various construction projects.

Kenya’s real estate sector is witnessing a significant boom, with an annual growth rate of approximately 5.3% as of 2023. This growth is driven by increased urbanization, a rising middle class, and substantial investments in infrastructure and housing. The demand for innovative and cost-effective construction solutions is higher than ever, positioning Mr. Ceiling’s stretch ceiling technology as a timely and valuable addition to the market.

BUILDEXPO KENYA is expected to draw a wide range of exhibitors specializing in building construction, creating a vibrant platform for industry professionals to network, exchange ideas, and explore new products. Mr. Ceiling’s participation underscores its commitment to bringing advanced European technologies to the local market, enhancing the quality and efficiency of construction practices in Kenya.