Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba announced that the government is prioritizing the retooling of teachers and lecturers with the competencies required for CBE implementation.

Speaking during the 6th Biennial Education Evidence for Action (EE4A) and EDF-Kenya Conference at the University of Embu, Ogamba emphasized the need for universities to adjust their curricula and teaching approaches in line with CBE.

“With senior school transition set for next year, higher learning institutions must equip and graduate teachers prepared to deliver CBE effectively,” Ogamba stated.

The CS stressed that learners completing senior school should leave with employable skills and career pathways that ease entry into the job market. He also revealed that the ministry is embracing a data-led strategy through the Kenya Education Management Information System (KEMIS), designed to track learners from early childhood to tertiary level, enabling informed allocation of resources and policy interventions.

The Embu meeting, convened by Zizi Afrique Foundation, brought together more than 61 universities and key education stakeholders under the theme “Revitalizing Education.” Deliberations focused on teacher training, professional growth, and addressing gaps in research and funding.

Ogamba reassured parents that new classrooms and laboratories have already been set up across the country to host Grade 9 students from next year. He further announced that the government will disburse KSh 17 billion in capitation funds this week to support schools, with KSh 5.9 billion earmarked for end-of-year national examinations.

Additionally, the Treasury has released KSh 9.1 billion to the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) to aid students in universities and TVETs. The CS reaffirmed the government’s confidence in CBC implementation, noting that the curriculum reform journey—launched nine years ago—will be completed in 2029 when the pioneer cohort finishes the cycle.

“With collective support from educators, parents, and partners, CBC will nurture innovative, skilled, and competent learners,” he affirmed.

Zizi Afrique Foundation Executive Director Dr. John Mugo highlighted the urgency of improving teacher training to match CBC requirements. He urged for increased budgetary support for the National Research Fund to enable robust educational research.

“Teachers remain the greatest asset in any education system. An inspired teacher shapes the destiny of a nation,” Mugo said, adding that the discussions came at the right time as the world marks International Teachers’ Day.

Prof. Siliaka Gitonga of the University of Embu echoed this, noting that with targeted training for teacher educators, Kenya could soon position itself as a leader in global teacher education.

The three-day event also marked the launch of the Global Literacy Paper by the Global Education Evidence Advisory Panel (GEEAP), which urged structured pedagogy and enhanced teacher professional development to ensure children acquire foundational literacy and numeracy.

The team was hosted by the University of Embu Vice Chancellor Prof Daniel Mugendi.

During an impromptu visit to the facility, Embu Senator Alexander Mundigi expressed disappointment at the state of affairs, terming the situation “unfortunate and unacceptable.”

Senator Mundigi called on Lands and Planning Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome to urgently intervene, warning that prolonged disruption of services at the office could paralyze land transactions and inconvenience many residents.

He noted that land issues are sensitive and time-bound, and delays caused by power outages could spark disputes, stall investments, and affect the county’s economic growth.

Despite the challenges, Mundigi commended the dedication of the staff he found working under difficult conditions, saying their resilience showed their commitment to serving the public.

“The staff here are doing their best despite the darkness, but clearly they cannot continue working effectively without electricity. This issue must be resolved urgently,” he said.

The Senator assured the public that he would escalate the matter to the relevant offices, adding that government facilities offering essential services should never be crippled over unsettled bills. He called for lasting solutions to ensure uninterrupted service delivery.

Speaking during a press briefing in Embu town, association chairman Charles Shanyaki acknowledged that the issues raised by the traders were genuine but warned that demonstrations often spiral out of control, attracting goons who loot and destroy property.

Shanyaki reminded residents of previous protests that left a trail of destruction, with businesses losing goods worth millions of shillings. He stressed that the business community will not condone a repeat of such incidents, insisting that peaceful avenues for redress remain open.

The Chairperson also called on security agencies in Embu town to remain vigilant on Monday to safeguard businesses. “We are asking our security apparatus to be proactive and ensure traders and property owners are protected from vandalism,” he said.

His sentiments were echoed by Robbison Wambeti, who urged young people not to be misled into participating in chaos. He cautioned against being used as pawns by individuals with selfish interests to incite violence under the guise of demonstrations.

“Many of these businesses have been built through years of sacrifice. Destroying them will only worsen the economic hardship that young people are already facing,” Wambeti noted.

Another business leader, Faith Nyaga, expressed deep frustration, saying entrepreneurs have suffered untold losses in past protests. She lamented that demonstrations often end up hurting the very community they claim to be fighting for. “We have lost millions to looting during demos. It is time we put a stop to this cycle,” she said.

The traders who have threatened to take to the streets cite frustrations with some colleagues who conduct business outside designated areas. They argue this practice gives unfair advantage to a few while undermining others operating within lawful zones.

They are demanding that the County Government of Embu to enforce market regulations to create a level playing field for all traders. According to them, streamlining operations would promote fair competition and reduce the tensions currently building among business operators.

As Monday approaches, the business community is urging calm, dialogue, and decisive action by authorities. Their message is clear: grievances can be resolved without destroying the very businesses that keep Embu’s economy alive.

Recently, residents of Kathukini in Mulango Ward, Kitui Central, expressed outrage over the poor state of ongoing road upgrading works in their area. The contractor handling the feeder road left cut trees and stumps unremoved, some of which remain in the middle of the road, posing a danger to locals and their vehicles. This negligence has already led to a tragic motorcycle accident that left a woman severely injured, and there are reports of animals sustaining injuries while using the same road.

The locals claim they were not consulted or informed about the road upgrading works, raising questions about transparency and accountability. "We strongly condemn the area MCA and his leadership for failing to oversee this project responsibly," the residents said. "The negligence displayed not only undermines development but also puts the lives of wananchi at great risk."

The Kitui residents are urging the county government and all stakeholders involved in these projects to take immediate action to rehabilitate these dangerous roads and improve their conditions. They also demand accountability from both the contractor and local leadership.

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Akyangai ve nthenge ngwitasywa ngili miongo ili ya kilo thati./I sold my 30kg goat for KSh 20000.

-seller

In a charged meeting at Talent Academy Hall, the newly formed Embu Business Owners Association vowed that “enough is enough,” promising to defend their livelihoods at all costs.

“Don’t dare us. We will not allow a few criminal elements to infiltrate peaceful demonstrations with the aim of destroying what we have worked hard for,” thundered Charles Shanyaki, moments after being elected the Interim Chair of the Association on Tuesday.

Shanyaki lamented that the anti-Finance Bill demonstrations since last year had been hijacked by rogue groups, leaving behind a trail of destruction for traders who had invested their life savings in businesses.

He did not spare politicians either, accusing some of stoking tensions for personal gain at the expense of local entrepreneurs.

“We have no political inclination. Politicians should keep off our businesses and stop the reckless rhetoric that disrupts our operations and scares away investors. Those who persist will be named and shamed,” he warned.

With the new dawn of leadership, Shanyaki assured both local and external investors of safety and stability, painting Embu as an emerging hub open for business.

“We want to assure prospective investors that Embu is safe. This county is ready for growth and prosperity,” he said.

The new association was born out of dissatisfaction with the previous leadership, which members accused of failing to rise to the occasion during protests. With the new outfit, business owners say they now have a united front to confront insecurity and restore investor confidence.

Faith Nyaga , Isaac Mutungi and Barean Waithaka were elected as deputies of the association.

Speaking during an impromptu early-morning visit to government offices in Embu town, CS Ruku said the move is part of ongoing reforms aimed at instilling discipline, accountability, and honesty within the public service. “We must up our game to serve the people,” he remarked, stressing that laxity and lateness will no longer be tolerated in government offices.

The CS noted that his team is working around the clock to perfect the application, which he described as a game changer in monitoring productivity and curbing absenteeism. He emphasized that the private sector, especially small and medium enterprises, depends heavily on timely government services, and any delays directly undermine the economy.

Drawing a contrast between public and private sectors, Ruku shared his morning experience on Thika Road, where he observed heavy traffic at 6 a.m. “That tells you most people in the private sector are already heading to work early. They know for their businesses to thrive, they need to work very, very hard. Government officers must match this energy if we are to transform our nation,” he said.

His surprise tour exposed glaring gaps in punctuality. While Huduma Centre and the Immigration Department impressed him with timely reporting, other offices painted a different picture. At the Lands Department, only one officer and a cleaner had arrived by the time of his inspection. “We cannot allow such negligence. We must be responsible,” the CS said firmly.

The Cabinet Secretary also took the opportunity to urge public servants to adhere to the Human Resource Procedures and Manual of 2016, which outlines expectations on professionalism, work ethics, and performance. He warned that the government will not entertain lax attitudes that compromise service delivery.

During the inspection, some late-coming staff were caught off guard when they found themselves locked outside their offices. Ruku said such measures will continue until discipline is restored in all government departments. “We cannot demand respect from the people we serve if we ourselves are not disciplined,” he added.

The CS further encouraged Kenyans who had applied for passports at the Eastern Regional Office in Embu to collect them, saying uncollected documents were piling up. He also noted that Embu Huduma Centre was holding a large number of uncollected national IDs, urging citizens to claim them promptly.

Ruku concluded by promising more surprise checks across the country to keep public officers on their toes. “This is not a one-time event. I will continue with spot checks because Kenyans deserve efficient, timely and honest services from their government,” he said.

The youth who are domiciled at the Kitui County Government Booth at the DevCon 2025 that is taking place at the Homa Bay Boys High School grounds are showcasing value added honey products, handcrafts including beaded items, wood carvings and palm-leaves handwoven baskets.

They hailed the Kitui County administration for sponsoring them to attend and display their works at the conference.

The entrepreneurial youth said that not only have they recorded incredible sales  in the first days of the conference that concludes on Friday but struck deals for future supplies.

They spoke to journalists on  Wednesday on the sidelines of the Devolution Conference 2025 event where they further praised  the County Government of Kitui for the strategic move to connect them to a wider external market.

They hoped that the gesture would be extended into the future to include more of their ilk.

Twenty nine-year-old Mercy Mugao of Ndara Basket Weavers said the sojourn in Homa Bay had created market linkages for her wares that are hand woven from palm leaves. She was happy to meet new clients, she said.

“Not only has this exposure trip created market linkages for me but I have met new clients with whom I have exchanged contacts offering any opportunity for me to do business in future,” said Mugao.

She further said she had also had a nice and remarkable experience on how to market her baskets and other products when she goes back home besides  being exposed to new business opportunities.

“Utmost, I have made money out of it. I have sold so many baskets and other products so far,” she said.

She added that all indications were that she would have sold out almost everything by the time the curtain is drawn on the conference on Friday.

“In just two day, I sold half of my merchandise. I will only go home with very few  of my wares by the time the conference ends,”youthful weaver said with optimism.

A twenty three-year-old Mercy Munyao from the Kitui School for  the Mentally Handicapped beading group was also among those who were sponsored by the Kitui County Government to exhibit her wares at the DevCon 2025 in Homa Bay.

Speaking under the guidance of their principal, Veronicah Kitonyi, the young girl said that the trip to Homa Bay created  external markets for their beaded products, aptly broadening their school's income base.

Twenty-five-year-old Stephen Kyalo who is a member of the  group, Samale Innovative Apiaries, that is involved in apiculture and value addition had stocks of sweet Kitui honey on display at the Kitui County Booth.

He described the sponsorship for the trip  to Homa Bay as highly motivating. “This is one way of marketing our products and showcasing the good and amazing products from our great Kitui County,” said Kyalo.

Kyalo said  he had sold a sizable quantity of  honey and related products since the opening of the DevCon 2025 in Homa Bay.

The programme, run under the Mount Kenya Sustainable Landscape and Livelihoods (MSuLLi) initiative, is spearheaded by the Rainforest Alliance in collaboration with the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) Foundation and Kathangariri Tea Factory.

Participants were equipped with knowledge on regenerative agriculture, climate-smart farming, riparian zone protection, agribusiness, crop diversification, home economics, and value addition.

During the Farmers’ Field School Graduation Day held on Thursday, Rainforest Alliance’s Susan Kinyua highlighted the central role of climate-smart practices in the curriculum. “We integrate climate risk mapping, digital solutions, and regenerative methods to help farmers build resilient agricultural systems,” she said.

KTDA Foundation’s MSULLi programme officer Allan Kinuthia noted that the training also focuses on expanding market opportunities for smallholders. The programme is ongoing in eight KTDA factories; five in Kirinyaga and three in Embu aiming to train 25,000 farmers, with 14,062 already reached.

Kathangariri Tea Factory Chairperson Moses Kamau praised the collaboration, saying it will raise productivity, improve farmer earnings, and uplift livelihoods.

Chief Guest Maureen Muthoni Njuguna from the Ministry of Cooperatives in Embu County lauded the initiative as a game-changer for the tea industry and encouraged more farmers to take part.

Beneficiaries also shared their experiences, among them Jane Njeru from Mbuvori, who said skills in diversified farming, yoghurt production, and soap making would help her grow her income and better support her family.

Speaking at a packed press conference in Embu town following a high-stakes consultative meeting, the traders did not hold back their frustrations. They accused their former association of going silent during the June 25 and Saba Saba protests, even as businesses were vandalized, looted, and forced to shut down.

“We suffered massive losses, yet the very body meant to protect us remained mute.Shops were shut for days. We lived in fear, but no one spoke for us.”lamented one trader.

According to the business owners, the lack of a strong voice during the demonstrations exposed deep flaws in the leadership and inclusivity of the previous association. They alleged that certain business sectors were continually sidelined, further widening the gap between the leadership and grassroots traders.

But from the ashes of disappointment, a new dawn has risen.

Interim Chairperson Charles Shanyaki unveiled the vision of the new association, vowing to deliver a unified voice and meaningful engagement with both county and national governments. “We are building a home for all businesspeople big or small, kiosk or wholesale, Mama Mboga or farmer. Everyone counts,” Shanyaki declared.

Already, EBOA has brought together 22 different business sectors, from distributors and kiosk owners to boda boda riders and mama mbogas. Each sector will elect five representatives, ensuring inclusivity and fair representation at every level.

The association will hold its first official elections on August 17 at Embu Talent Academy, in what is expected to be a structured and transparent voting process.

As the Embu Business Owners Association begins to take shape, it is poised to challenge established bodies such as the Embu Business Community and the Kenya Chamber of Commerce – Embu Chapter. Many traders now believe the new association offers a fresh start, real representation, and the leadership they have long been denied.

During a vibrant public engagement session held at the Kenya School of Government in Embu town, locals and conservation stakeholders embraced the new KWS proposals, which include waiving park entry charges for children below five years, senior citizens over the age of 70, and persons living with disabilities (PWDs).

“This is truly transformative,” said Jeremiah Nyaga Gicovi, an honorary warden with the Mount Kenya Conservation Area headquartered in Kirinyaga. “These exemptions will not only encourage more locals to visit parks but also instill a stronger sense of national pride and connection to our natural heritage.”

Nyaga also praised the revamped conservation fee framework, highlighting its potential to finance critical needs such as compensation for human-wildlife conflict victims and the strategic relocation of wildlife in overcrowded or threatened habitats.

Rosemary Nyaga of Embu Nature, a local conservation body, welcomed the proposed changes with enthusiasm.

She called on KWS to back its policy reforms with tangible action. “Let’s see the delivery of promised electric boats and improved infrastructure. Implementation is the real game-changer if we’re serious about boosting tourism” she said.

Rosemary further urged both the national and county governments to collaborate in developing the reserve into a premier attraction. “There’s so much untapped potential right here in Embu. Locals should be the first to explore it."Rosemary said.

Lynn Ndinda, Chairperson of the Embu Chapter of the Kenya Association of Women in Tourism (KAWT), hailed the conservation fee overhaul as a long-overdue move. “This marks a major step forward. With better infrastructure and increased visitor numbers, women and youth in the tourism sector stand to gain immensely.”

She added that removing financial barriers for the young and the elderly would lead to greater engagement and appreciation of Kenya’s vast natural assets. “For once, we see a tourism sector that includes and uplifts everyone.”

According to Lucy Mwita, the Senior Assistant Director of the Mountain Conservation Area, the last comprehensive review of entry charges took place nearly two decades ago. “Much has evolved in our economy and environment. This new structure allows us to adapt better to current realities including climate change and the need for conservation education”she noted.

Mwita also shared that KWS has now classified conservation areas into categories ranging from premium parks and wilderness zones to special interest areas ensuring that there’s a destination suitable for every Kenyan.

“We must start exploring and appreciating what our country offers,” she said. “Kenya’s wild beauty is best experienced firsthand.”

The countrywide forums are part of a broader national conversation anchored in key frameworks such as the Constitution of Kenya (2010), Vision 2030, the Fourth Medium-Term Plan (MTP IV), the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), and Vision 2050.

With KWS now aligning conservation with economic transformation and social inclusion, Embu is set to emerge as a key player in Kenya’s tourism map where age, ability, or background will no longer limit access to the wonders of the wild.

The Wiper MP was speaking at Kavililo Comprehensive School in Migwani Ward during the launch of five new classrooms.

"If us as MPs care about the electorate, it is better that we reduce some expenses being implemented by the government and pay school fees for our children.

The capitation should be increased from KSh22,000 to KSh30,000.It should be free secondary education not KSh16000. President William Ruto, I ask you to increase capitation not reducing", he said.

Speaking during the launch event at Agitech Centre,Nancy Kinyanjui, the Managing Director of Avenews, announced that the company will provide loans of up to KSh 1.5 million to agro-dealers and agri-entrepreneurs registered under Mazao na Afya. The financing will help stockists bulk-purchase certified farm inputs, ensuring that farmers get what they need when they need it most.

“Mazao na Afya stood out because of its vast network of agro-dealers and its track record with farmers, being in this field for over 27 years .Through this partnership, we are not just giving out loans. We are giving farmers a chance to thrive, increase yields, and transform their livelihoods”said the manager.

The rollout of the partnership will begin in key counties within the Mount Kenya region, including Kirinyaga, Embu, Tharaka Nithi ,Nyeri , Muranga, Meru among other counties in the region.These areas were selected due to their favorable weather conditions and vibrant farming communities. However, there are plans to scale the program to other regions based on the success of the pilot phase.

Peter Karanja Ndung’u, Director of Mazao Group and Agitech Seedlings, described the partnership as a timely solution to long-standing challenges facing agro-stockists. Many dealers, he said, have struggled to access capital, limiting their ability to meet demand during peak planting seasons.

“Our stockists have always wanted to serve farmers better, but cash flow has been a major barrier. Now, with support from Avenews, they can purchase inputs in bulk and ensure that no farmer is turned away,” said Karanja.

Avenews is known for its use of technology to offer seamless, ethical, and timely financial services. Betty Simiyu, the firm’s Strategic Partnerships and Marketing Manager, explained that the decision to team up with Mazao na Afya was data-driven.

“We were impressed by the quality of trade data and the customer loyalty that Mazao na Afya has built over the years. It gave us the confidence to make this bold investment.Our digital systems make loan processing easy and transparent, ensuring that funds get to where they are needed fast.”she noted.

Simiyu added that Avenews is committed to addressing the seasonal nature of agriculture by ensuring agro-SMEs have recurring access to credit when demand peaks.

The impact of the deal is already being felt by dealers like Steven Warui, an agro-dealer from Kirinyaga County, who praised the partnership as a long-overdue breakthrough.

“I have worked with Mazao na Afya for over 20 years and they have never disappointed me. Not once. With Avenews joining in, I can finally prepare for peak seasons without financial stress. This will change how we serve our farmers,” said Warui.

The launch event was attended by dozens of farmers, agro-dealers, financial experts, and agribusiness stakeholders, many of whom expressed optimism about the future of the region’s agriculture. There was a strong sense that this partnership could signal a new era of farming one driven by access to finance, quality inputs, and strong distribution systems.

With the cost of farming on the rise and many smallholders locked out of traditional financing systems, the Avenews–Mazao na Afya partnership comes as a ray of hope. It promises to strengthen supply chains, improve yields, and ultimately uplift livelihoods in the Mount Kenya region and beyond.

Speaking at the funeral of his long-time friend Dionisio Njiru Kanyenji at Gikuyari village in Mbeere North, Ruku said the marginalized Mbeere community has witnessed unprecedented progress under President William Ruto’s leadership, more than under any previous regime since independence. He emphasized that the government was delivering on its promises, with major infrastructure and social development projects already underway.

Among the notable developments he cited were the Kamburu and Kiambere bulk water projects, which are expected to benefit the entire Mbeere region. Ruku noted that despite hosting the expansive Seven Forks hydroelectric dams, Mbeere residents have for decades suffered chronic water shortages, a challenge that Dr William Ruto administration was aggressively addressing. He further mentioned the Kamata Irrigation Project, currently under construction at a cost of KSh 150 million, and the Kanyuambora Irrigation Project, which has received KSh 280 million in funding. Additional allocations have been made in the current financial year to scale up the Kamata project.

Ruku also outlined ongoing road infrastructure works that had stalled under previous administrations but are now back on track. These include the Embu PI–Makima–Machang’a Road, Kiritiri–Kiambeere–Mutuobare Road, and the Gikuyari–Muminji–Kiarie Road, all of which were factored into this year’s National  budget.

President Ruto is expected to officially launch these projects in August. He dismissed claims that no work was being done, pointing to the active construction along the Kanyuambora–Kamumu–Kageeri Road, where a contractor was already on site. He criticized detractors who were allegedly posting misleading photos online to create a false narrative that the government was not delivering.

Turning to electrification, the CS noted that many homes across Embu were now being connected to electricity, an effort that made a significant milestone for a region that has historically been bypassed despite contributing to the National power grid. He said these developments are proof that the Kenya Kwanza government was attentive to the needs of the people.

On the issue of youth empowerment, CS Ruku assured residents that opportunities for young people are real and expanding. He revealed that over 400,000 Kenyan youth are currently working in various countries abroad, thanks to government-facilitated diaspora job programs. He urged youth to take advantage of available opportunities in climate-focused programs and the Affordable Housing Programme, which he said are creating employment at a large scale. He also highlighted the NYOTA Business Programme, which provides up to KSh 50,000 in startup capital for registered businesses, encouraging entrepreneurship and economic inclusion.

“All these programs are part of President William Ruto’s vision for a better Kenya,” Ruku said, reaffirming that the development narrative being promoted by the opposition was misleading and aimed at sabotaging progress. He accused opposition leaders of inciting unrest and trying to gain power through unconstitutional means. “We have no space for violence. We must live in peace and unity,” he added.

The CS praised the youth of Mbeere North for resisting calls to engage in protests, saying their decision to stay peaceful was commendable and a sign of political maturity. He argued that when President Ruto took office in 2022, the economy was in poor shape, but through deliberate policy measures, inflation has decreased, the value of the Kenyan shilling has stabilized, and the prices of basic commodities have come down.

Ruku also emphasized the importance of effective public service delivery. He said he has recently made impromptu visits to various government offices to assess how services are being offered to citizens, noting that public servants must perform diligently and reflect the commitment of the President. “Public service delivery is central to this administration. You are the President’s representative in your office, and you must serve the people accordingly,” he said.

Addressing the upcoming Mbeere North by-election, CS Ruku called on residents to support a pro-government candidate, arguing that continued development depends on political alignment with the administration. He said it would be unwise to abandon a government that is already delivering results in favor of the opposition, comparing such a move to rejecting a cow that is giving milk in favor of one that does not.

In a direct challenge to Members of County Assembly (MCAs) who are eyeing the Mbeere North parliamentary seat, Ruku urged them to resign immediately if they are serious about contesting. “If you believe you are ready to lead, step down and face the people. Show your seriousness,” he said, adding that half-hearted ambition should not be tolerated at the expense of effective representation.

He also took a swipe at former Embu Senator Lenny Kivuti, accusing him of trying to mislead the Mbeere community into opposition politics after having a full decade in to work for the people . “You had your chance to deliver for our people. We are now reaping the benefits of the government we voted for. Don’t take us backwards,” he warned.

Ruku closed his address by reminding residents of the work he did for them during his time as MP, including improving school infrastructure and ensuring equitable distribution of bursaries to support needy students. He expressed full confidence in President Ruto’s re-election in 2027, declaring that the Kenya Kwanza government has a clear mission and vision to take Kenya forward.

Governor Dr Julius Malombe said that his administration achieved this through signing of performance contracts by his staff to transform intentions to outcomes.

"This decision was driven by our shared desire to build a result-oriented culture where accountability, transparency and citizen-focused service delivery determines how we govern", pointed out the Kitui county chief.

Deputy Governor Augustine Kanani was the first senior official of the County Government of Kitui to sign the fourth cycle of performance contracts. He also serves as the County Executive Committee Member for Tourism, Performance Contracting and Disaster Management.

Governor Malombe reiterated that it was by adherence to performance contract terms that county government staff were able to implement the 1921 infrastructural projects since 2022 which was the year he was reelected back into office after enduring five years outside when second governor Ms Charity Ngilu was in office. 

Dr Julius Malombe is serving his second term having been the founding governor between 2013 and 2017.

In a tense meeting held at Gategi trading centre, the residents, elders and opinion leaders of the disputed land accused lawyers allegedly working under the Ngome Council of Elders of initiating court-based mediation proceedings without involving the actual affected parties and their legal teams. The community fears the process is not only illegitimate but is also crafted to sideline the voices of the rightful land dwellers.

Shedrack Kilonzo, chairperson of the association representing the settlers living on the disputed land, led the charge, questioning the authority and intentions behind the silent mediation being carried out in court corridors. “We do not know who appointed those lawyers or who gave them the mandate to mediate on our behalf. We only recognize the ADR process as agreed with the Ministry of Lands,” he said.

Kilonzo added that a previous meeting with all stakeholders, held at the Ministry of Lands and chaired by the Cabinet Secretary in charge of lands Hon Alice Wahome, had resolved that a structured ADR process bringing all parties to the table was the only credible way forward. “Now, someone is trying to cook deals in the dark. But let them be warned, no resolution will succeed without our involvement,” he warned.

The Mwea land dispute, which dates back decades, involves claims of ownership between residents who have occupied the land for years and individuals claiming to possess title deeds. The latest attempt to bypass the agreed ADR framework, locals say, risks throwing the region back into renewed tension and uncertainty.

Washington Murangiri, a resident  echoed Kilonzo’s concerns, condemning the “underground behaviors” of some actors, which he believes mirror past mistakes that escalated the conflict. “These secret talks are a recipe for chaos. If we are not careful, this will reignite what we’ve been trying to heal from,” he said.

He further questioned the moral standing of the Ngome Council of Elders, who he said must come forward with clean hands if any meaningful resolution is to be achieved. “You cannot claim ownership and at the same time silence the voice of the people. That’s not how justice works,” he added.

Sila Mwaniki, another respected elder from the area, reminded the government that the community had fully embraced ADR as the only fair, inclusive, and non-violent method of ending the impasse. He called for immediate clarification from the Ministry of Lands on the alleged secret mediation and demanded a fresh convening of all stakeholders.

“We have waited patiently, and we still believe the government means well. But any attempt to cut corners will be resisted. ADR was not just a suggestion it was a government commitment,” Mwaniki emphasized.

Charles Munyi, another resident  lamented that the decades-long dispute had stalled development in the region. “This land could be home to modern housing, farming projects, and schools. But instead, we are trapped in endless wrangles,” he said, urging the state to expedite resolution efforts before the situation worsens.

The residents are now calling for the immediate halting of any unauthorized mediation processes and a recommitment by all players to the ADR path. They say they are ready to return to the table openly and transparently but only if the government facilitates it.

Governor Dr Julius Malombe who  on Friday held a  meeting with the CEO of Kenya Utalii College Mark Rachuonyo and his team, disclosed that a  26 acre parcel of land for the institution had bet set aside by the county. He said the move was in line with the government's aim of tackling youth unemployment and equipping Kenyans with marketable skills for various industry needs.

Deputy Governor Augustine Kanani who also serves as the CEC Member for Tourism, Hospitality and Game Reserves was tasked with working with the Kenya Utalii College in coming up with a Memorandum of Understanding and a Plan of Action for the establishment of Kenya Utalii College in Kitui County. The governor reiterated that his administration will launch a tourism circuit on September 19 this year. 

The Kenya Utalii College CEO Mark Rachuonyo called upon the youth to embrace learning about tourism courses once the campus starts operations saying that some of vacancies available include cruise ship jobs. There will also be refresher courses offered targeting the hoteliers and citizens from not just Kitui county but the entire country.

The college, Dr Malombe said, will give locals an advantage of getting quotas of opportunities available hence given priorities by the virtue of being the host county of the tourism training  college. Tourism is a devolved function as per the Constitution of Kenya, 2010.