The president said all regions should be developed equitably. At the Eastern Kenya Integrated College in Mitaboni, Machakos county, President Ruto said no part of the country will be left behind.

Kenya Kwanza government is particularly targeting the three Ukambani counties of Machakos, Makueni and Kitui for affordable housing and fresh produce market programmes, according to a communique from Presidential Communication Service shared with the media.

President Ruto said his government had set aside KSh 45 billion to fund the construction of affordable houses, building student hostels and developing fresh produce markets in Ukambani.

Further, President Dr William Ruto said that more goodies were lined up in the former Vice President Dr Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka's political home turf.

KSh 5.5 billion has been set aside to build roads in Ukambani while another similar allocation has been made for electricity connections.

"It is not right or fair for any part to remain behind. We are one nation, one people with a common destiny", said the fifth president of Kenya.

President Ruto further said that his government will transform Ukambani's food security through irrigation terming it as the "next frontier ". This, he said, will be helped by completion of Thwake Dam which is in the final stages.

"The next frontier for agricultural transformation is irrigation and Ukambani has huge potential", the president outlined.

During the visit, it was revealed that the Eastern Integrated College had applied for a Letter of Interim Authority and charter to offer degree courses. The Ministry of Education outlined the process they need to follow in order to achieve those dreams.

Of note is that this year's Mashujaa Day celebrations will be held at Ithookwe International Stadium in Kitui County and President Ruto-led government invested KSh 800 million for construction of the state-of-the-art stadium. The town will also benefit from upgrading of infrastructure around the stadium.

The president was accompanied by Labour CS Dr Alfred Mutua, Nominated Senator Tabitha Mutinda, MPs Caleb Mule of Machakos Town, Joshua Mwalyo, Masinga and Kangundo's Fabian Muli.

Also present was former Machakos Senator Johnstone Muthama, MCAs and other county leaders.

The teachers say tension has been brewing since JSS was integrated into primary schools, sparking friction with administrators who reportedly view them as rivals rather than colleagues.

According to the teachers, this has bred a hostile working environment marked by disrespect and mistreatment from both heads and staff in the institutions where they are stationed.

Led by Embu KUPPET Executive Secretary Jacob Karura, the educators are now demanding that the Government grants JSS full autonomy, saying such a move would restore their professional dignity.

They disclosed that a formal petition has already been forwarded to the National Assembly urging lawmakers to pass legislation that will anchor JSS as independent learning institutions.

Karura maintained that unless action is taken, the teachers are prepared to down their tools or seek redress in court to safeguard their careers and the Competency-Based Education (CBE), which they claim is being compromised by the current arrangement.

They further cautioned that lumping pre-primary, primary and junior secondary under a single management structure threatens the quality of education delivery.

The union leaders reiterated their push for JSS to have independent boards of management, distinct administrative structures and governance systems to strengthen CBE to ensure accountability and enhance learning outcomes.

Dr. Malombe emphasized the county government's commitment to ensuring clean water is supplied to all households in Kitui County, with water points accessible within a two-kilometer radius. "The county government is committed to ensuring clean water is supplied to all households in Kitui County and making water points as close as a distance of two kilometers for easy accessibility of clean and reliable water sources," he stated.

The Governor urged residents to contribute a small fee for water usage to facilitate proper management and maintenance of the project. "It's a must for this project to be managed professionally. Don't charge a lot of money, but make a cost that can manage and maintain this project," Dr. Malombe urged.

Gilbert Kamanga, National Director of World Vision Kenya, appealed to the county government to consider installing solar power to pump water from the Kangu Kangu project, reducing electricity costs and subsequently the amount residents would pay for water. "I appeal to you, Your Excellency, with your government to ensure there is a constant flow of this water, and to achieve this is by installing solar power," Kamanga stated.

The Kangu Kangu water project is expected to significantly improve the lives and lifestyles of residents in Kitui South, providing them with access to clean and reliable water for domestic and irrigation use.

Speaking in Embu town during the swearing-in ceremony of the board, Governor Mbarire emphasized that her administration had zero tolerance for corruption and malpractice.

She reminded the new team that they carry a heavy responsibility of ensuring transparency, fairness, and accountability in recruitment processes, stressing that the people of Embu deserve nothing less.

Mbarire noted that previous boards had been tainted by corruption scandals, which undermined the credibility of the county government. She cited cases where the County Assembly was forced to overturn irregular appointments due to bribery allegations.

One of the most notable cases, she recalled, was the recent cancellation of Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) teachers’ recruitment, which was nullified after claims of bribery rocked the process.

The governor called on the new board members to break away from the negative legacy left by their predecessors and to set a new standard of integrity in public service management.

She further urged them to handle upcoming recruitments, including the hiring of chief officers and ECDE teachers, with utmost diligence and impartiality to restore public confidence.

Mbarire expressed confidence that the new team has the capacity to rise above past mistakes and deliver on its mandate. She assured them of her administration’s support in fulfilling their duties effectively.

The governor reiterated that her leadership is committed to rooting out corruption in all county offices, adding that clean governance was key to public service delivery and development.

“As long as I am governor, corruption will not be tolerated. Anyone found engaging in it will go home and face the law,” she declared, drawing applause from those present at the event.

Speaking during a public engagement at Kavengero in Mbeere North, CS Ruku questioned why Muturi and Kivuti, both of whom held senior positions in government, are now attempting to "mislead the community" and push it into what he termed as political isolation.

“You worked with the government for years, JB Muturi as a magistrate, MP, Speaker of the National Assembly for 10 years, and even Attorney General. Kivuti also served as a senator. Why now mislead the people of Mbeere into opposing the very government that can help them?” Ruku posed, addressing a large crowd.

He challenged the two to stop presenting aspirants with weak academic and leadership credentials, saying that if they were genuinely committed to helping the community, they would encourage well-educated individuals capable of being appointed to powerful House committees and lobbying effectively for development resources.

“If they truly care about Mbeere, let them bring their own sons who are educated, people who can walk into Parliament, get committee placements, and fight for development. Leadership is not just about popularity; it’s about the capacity to deliver,” Ruku said.

However, the Cabinet Secretary was quick to clarify that the people of Mbeere have no personal issues with Muturi or Kivuti. He expressed deep respect for their past contributions but urged them not to drag personal grievances into the political space.

“JB, I respect you so much. But your differences with the President should not be settled at the expense of the Mbeere community,” he said.

Ruku warned against a return to clan-based and divisive politics, which he said belong to the past. He accused the two leaders of reviving outdated political tactics aimed at splintering the community rather than uniting it around a shared development agenda.

“Those pushing clan politics in Mbeere North have no space. That kind of politics is behind us because what our people need now is unity and development,” he declared.

Ruku highlighted several ongoing and upcoming development projects in Mbeere North as proof of the Kenya Kwanza administration’s commitment. These include the planned tarmacking of the Kathangeri–Kavengero–Kanyuambora road, which he described as a game-changer for local connectivity, trade, and transport.

He also noted that the tarmacking of the Kanyuambora–Kamumu–Soko–Nthawa road was in progress, lauding President William Ruto for prioritising infrastructure in the region. “This is what development looks like. These roads will open markets, link villages, and uplift lives,” he noted.

Additionally, Ruku revealed that the funds for completing the Kanyuambora irrigation project will be available, ensuring the project is completed before December, with disbursement expected next week. He said the initiative will transform agriculture in the area, enhance food security, and economically empower hundreds of households.

“Our people depend on farming. Once the irrigation project starts, we shall stop talking about hunger. That is the kind of empowerment we’re bringing to Mbeere North,” he added.

Ruku urged locals to stay firmly behind President Ruto’s administration, warning against being misled by leaders who want to alienate the region from national development.

“We are in government, and that’s where we must stay. Anyone telling you to walk away from that is playing politics with your future,” he cautioned.

He called for unity among leaders and the public, saying only a united community can attract meaningful development.

“Politics of division and clanism will not build a single road or feed a single family. Mbeere understands one language, development,” he said.

The celebrations will take place at the Ithookwe Showgrounds, and the county commissioner has emphasized the importance of cooperation between residents and security stakeholders to ensure the event meets the government's expectations.

Addressing members of the press after chairing a meeting with National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs), Rutto stated that their primary objective is to bring Kitui residents from all 19 sub-counties to the Ithookwe Showgrounds for the celebrations.

"Our core business here is to bring Kitui residents from all corners of the 19 sub-counties to Ithookwe Show Grounds on October 20, 2025, for the Mashujaa Day celebrations," Rutto noted. He confirmed that the security team is ready to showcase the required entertainment and performance for the national celebrations.

The county commissioner assured residents and visitors that everything is being done to promote peace and calmness in the county during the national event. "We have discussed and elaborated on how we will beef up security across the county to ensure the day is well-spent by our visitors," Rutto assured. He warned that anyone involved in criminal activities would be arrested and face necessary action.

Rutto also urged business people to be prepared to receive and accommodate the large number of visitors expected before and during the celebrations. "We shall be receiving a lot of visitors within our town. I urge business people, including hotel owners, restaurant owners, and transport businesses, to be ready to accommodate visitors within the days of celebrations," he added.

This event presents a significant opportunity for Kituians, and it is essential for all to seize it and make a meaningful difference in their lives and the county. The county commissioner emphasized that the event would be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many residents and encouraged everyone to participate and enjoy the celebrations.

Speaking at the institution's main campus, chairman of Uasu Seku chapter, Dr Michael Wahome, said that it was regrettable that the government doesn't respect the rule of law. "We express our disaffection with government's decision to fail to honour our return to work formula as signed last year", said the don.

The lecturers criticized President Dr William Ruto for embarking on wasteful empowerment programmes. He said  that the  scheme was waste of taxpayers' money. 

A case in point was when teachers under Knut visited the State House and were reportedly paid KSh 10,000. Their leaders got fatter handouts.

"How is it that money is available for them and not available for us? If we're saying that there is no money in the country, where are they getting money for the empowerment programs?", posed Dr Wahome.

Kusu chairman Seku chapter Thaddeus Mutisya, in an interview with the press, said that the strike will go on till money hits the Seku workers'  bank accounts.

A police report shows that the young man's mother Virginia Nzula went to his house at around 10pm on Tuesday to take supper to him and found he was missing.

The family conducted a search upon finding the son was missing. After a while, his body was found hanging from the tamarind tree located at his grandmother's compound which is just nearby.

Migwani Police Commander Lemmy Njiru said that the deceased left behind a suicide note. He did not disclose the details of the suicide note.

However, Nzalae sub location assistant chief Dominic Ilai said the suicide note was terse and it only said goodbye to the late boy's parents.

Further, the assistant chief said the deceased was serving a two weeks suspension which may have depressed him.

Police visited the scene and removed the body and took it to Mbaku funeral home in Matuu town awaiting postmortem.

Consistency. Give correct answers that can be ascertained by different consumers of your data presented. Things like your age, gender, people you live with, where you live and your income levels give survey administrators a justification for them to qualify you to be their respondent.

Being consistent in your answers make you more credible hence increasing your believability. That way, you take part in more surveys and gain more income from them.

Timing. Most digital work is available in the evening and night hours although there could be spikes any time of the day. Study your client and align your schedule to suit their not the other way round.

Linger around. Some companies use third parties to administer surveys. If you are online and have stable internet coverage, you're more likely to get surveys than someone who is one-off and has shaky connection.

Profile. Update your profile across research institutions for clients to know what you offer as a recruit. Some digital payment platforms want to know your fields of specialization to be able to link you up with future gigs. These are generic data collections that don't endanger your cyber life making you prone to hacking and other crimes. No fear.

Lobby. Government and other stakeholders should engage clients on behalf of working class citizens in order to get paid commensurate to their skills. It is public knowledge that some of these digital companies pay Africans and the Global South less than their Western and North American workers for similar tasks done. This is modern day slavery enabled by the internet. Wazungus, it is time for equal pay for equal work to be done.

Speaking during the 10th graduation ceremony of the University of Embu, Dr. Inyangala said the new student-centred university funding model was designed to support every learner, regardless of their financial background. She noted that already, more than 180,000 students who joined various universities this year have had their fees paid by the Government under the new plan.

“Education is the greatest equalizer.That is why this Government remains steadfast in ensuring that every deserving student has access to the transformative power of higher education. This funding model is not just a technical adjustment; it is a moral commitment to build a nation where potential, not privilege, determines success”she noted.

The PS further revealed that the Government was diligently preparing for the historic transition of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) cohorts into universities in 2029. She said extensive consultations were ongoing with universities, regulatory agencies, and professional bodies to ensure that infrastructure, staffing, curricula, and policies are aligned to provide an environment where learners can thrive and fulfill their potential.

On his part, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Embu, Prof. Daniel Mugendi, announced that a record-breaking 2,055 students had graduated this year the highest in the history of the institution. Among them were 92 diploma and certificate holders, 1,915 bachelor’s degree graduates, 2 postgraduate diploma awardees, 39 master’s degree graduates, and 7 Ph.D. scholars.

“This milestone demonstrates the steady growth of our university,” said Prof. Mugendi. He also revealed that for the 2025/2026 academic year, the university admitted 4,292 first-year students, raising the total student population to 16,406, up from 14,534 last year. According to him, most of the students have expressed gratitude for the new funding model, which has made education more accessible by significantly reducing the financial burden.

Echoing these sentiments, the Chancellor University of Embu , Prof. Musili Wambua, lauded the ongoing reforms in the education sector, describing them as a “game changer.” He praised the Government’s proactive approach, led by Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba and PS Dr. Inyangala, for addressing student funding, institutional sustainability, and the quality of university programs.

“These reforms have brought about transformative change in how our higher learning institutions operate.We are especially grateful for the government’s steadfast support, which has unlocked opportunities for thousands of students who would otherwise have been left behind”Prof. Wambua said.

The Embu University graduation ceremony thus stood not only as a celebration of academic achievement but also as a testament to Kenya’s bold steps in reshaping higher education to ensure inclusivity, equity, and sustainability for generations to come.

Speaking during an ordination ceremony of EAPC priest as an overseer in Makima, Mbeere South, Senator Mundigi said the Kenya Kwanza administration has made significant strides in delivering on its promises and deserves fair recognition.

“The government of President William Ruto has touched every corner of this country with development. As much as the church can point out areas of concern, it should also tell the faithful what has been achieved,” said Mundigi.

The Senator cited the massive recruitment of teachers under the Ruto administration as one of the biggest wins for the education sector, noting that the move has eased the burden of congestion in schools and improved learning outcomes.

“Today, our children are benefiting from more teachers in schools because this government listened to the cries of parents and learners. That is a story that the church should also help to tell,” he stated.

Mundigi further expressed confidence that the government will secure reelection in the future because of its ongoing development agenda. He praised President Ruto and his deputy, Prof. Kithure Kindiki, for working in unity to fulfill their manifesto.

“This is a government of action, and Kenyans are seeing the results. With the pace of development, I have no doubt that Kenyans will reward this administration with another term,” he said.

The Senator was hosted by Bishop Samuel Muguna of the EAPC Church during the ordination of one of the priests to the position of overseer. The event brought together congregants and leaders from across the region.

Bishop Muguna thanked the Senator for gracing the occasion, urging political leaders to work closely with the church in fostering unity, peace, and development in Mbeere and beyond.

Mundigi assured the clergy of his support, pledging to continue championing policies that empower churches, promote education, and uplift livelihoods in Embu County. “The church and government are partners in shaping society. If we walk hand in hand, our people will truly prosper,” he concluded.

Mbao, who is deaf reaffirmed his loyalty to the Jubilee Party and its leader, former President Uhuru Kenyatta. He said his vision, investment, and political journey are inseparable from the party that once led government and continues to command support across the Mt. Kenya region .

"Jubilee is my home, and I am not leaving. My investment, my vision, and my journey remain firmly tied to this party. We must protect it from opportunists and rebuild it to its former glory,” Mbao told journalists during a press briefing in Mbeere North.

His remarks come at a time when the party has been rocked by controversy following a statement by Jubilee Communications Director Pauline Njoroge, who recently suggested that Jubilee would not field a candidate in the Mbeere North by-election. The announcement threw the party’s grassroots supporters into confusion and appeared to put Mbao’s candidacy on the line.

Pauline Njoroge, a fierce defender of Jubilee’s legacy on social media and one of its most visible communications strategists, has been a key voice in shaping the party’s messaging. However, her suggestion that Jubilee will sit out the Mbeere North race has drawn criticism from aspirants and members who believe the constituency cannot be abandoned.

Mbao dismissed her remarks as “misguided and out of touch with the people,” insisting that only the Jubilee National Executive Committee, under the leadership of Uhuru Kenyatta, has the authority to decide on candidates.

“The people of Mbeere North deserve a Jubilee candidate who reflects their aspirations and development agenda. I call on our party leadership to urgently issue me with the certificate. I am ready to carry the flag and deliver victory,” he stated firmly.

Mbao also used the opportunity to call out nominated MP Sabina Chege, accusing her of repeated attempts to undermine Jubilee’s leadership. He said her actions, together with those of other “political opportunists,” amount to betrayal of the millions of Kenyans who still hold Jubilee close to their hearts.

“Jubilee is bigger than any individual. Attempts to overthrow its leadership and frustrate its loyal members are acts of betrayal. This party was built on unity, peace, and development, and we must defend it,” Mbao said.

Despite the turbulence within his party, Mbao said his campaign remains on course. He pledged to focus on development, democracy, and good governance, promising to continue the projects initiated by the former MP while introducing fresh ideas to uplift the lives of Mbeere North residents.

“Our journey has not changed. Our resolve remains firm, and our campaign is anchored on the values that matter to our people. No matter the challenges, I will be on the ballot to give Mbeere North a chance at real transformation,” he assured his supporters.

The by-election has attracted fierce competition, with Leonard Muthende of UDA, Duncan Mbui of Chama Cha Kazi, and Newton Karish of the Democratic Party also in the race. Political analysts say the constituency will be a hotbed of political activity as different parties test their strength ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Even as Jubilee struggles to find its footing amid leadership disputes and mixed signals, Mbao maintains optimism of flying the Jubilee party ticket in the next by election. 

“I remain hopeful. The people of Mbeere North are behind me, and no amount of confusion will stop our march to victory,” he said.

Mutemi stated that all interested teams should register at the ward level, and the process is free of charge. "The players will be directed on the necessary requirements by the coordinators," she added.

The Governor's Cup aligns with the Governor Dr Julius Malombe's promise to nurture youth talent and empower them to focus on positive aspects of life.

CECM Mutemi noted that Kitui County youths have been eagerly waiting for this cup, and it's finally here to discover and nurture talents from the villages.

The tournament is set to kick off soon after finalizing arrangements with stakeholders, with the aim of improving the livelihoods of youths in Kitui County.

Addressing more than 1,500 Community Health Promoters (CHPs) at Kangaru School Hall in Embu, the leaders underscored that President William Ruto’s administration has rolled out numerous projects geared towards uplifting the livelihoods of Kenyans.

PS Muthoni stressed that it was the duty of government officers to directly engage citizens and demystify projects, countering propaganda circulating in the region. She said senior state officials would traverse grassroots levels to explain government policies and particularly encourage residents to register with the Social Health Authority.

On her part, Governor Cecily Mbarire, who also the UDA chairperson, urged leaders allied to President Ruto to confidently market government programs without succumbing to intimidation.

Mbarire cautioned locals against falling for narratives pushed by critics of the administration, taking a swipe at former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and his allies for attempting to lure Mt. Kenya voters away from the Kenya Kwanza fold.

She further pointed out that Embu County had already benefited from several government projects and advised residents not to be misled by Opposition figures, some of whom, she argued, might be barred from contesting in future polls due to constitutional limitations.

The leaders pledged to enhance the welfare and pay of CHPs while committing to strengthen the health sector within the county.

They appealed to residents to maintain confidence in the Kenya Kwanza administration, insisting that its programs are designed with the best interests of the nation at heart.

The rain whose onset is expected to be from the third to forth week of November is expected to be below average.

"Most parts of the northeast and southeastern lowlands and coastal region are expected to receive below average rainfall", wrote Charles Mugah, for the Acting Director of Meteorological Services.

He goes on to say, "Southeastern lowland counties-Kitui, Makueni, Taita Taveta, Machakos- expected to receive intermittent rainfall throughout the season. Total rainfall amounts are likely to be below the long term average for the season. Rainfall expected to be poorly distributed both in space and time".

The government further advises Kenyans to brace for prolonged dry spells and isolated storms during the short rains which have delayed onset and early cessation tentatively set for the third or fourth week of December 2025.

During the forecast period, the weatherman further expects that temperature will be warmer than average over most parts of the country.

The CS was addressing the media during a tour to inspect Ithookwe Stadium which is near completion. The international stadium will host this year's Mashujaa Day celebrations. He was accompanied by his Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi.

Ithookwe Stadium is a 10,000 seater facility that is currently 80 per cent complete. The fully complete stadium is expected to be through by October 6.

CS Mvurya said there was remaining work on the pavilion and auxiliary areas which will be done soon. He added that the perimeter wall was also part of areas to undergo finishing up.

Kitui Governor Dr Julius Malombe thanked President Dr William Ruto for the state-of-the-art Ithookwe Stadium building. Other projects being done by President Ruto's government are the rehabilitation of Ithookwe Airstrip and building Tiva Utalii College campus as well as the Kanyonyoo Livestock Training Institute.

Dr Malombe cautioned unnamed Kitui politicians out to take credit of development programs done saying they don't know how the projects were conceptualized.

Impressed by the construction progress, Prof Kindiki urged the contractor to speed up remaining work but not to compromise on the standards. According to a communique sent to newsrooms by the DPPS, the international stadium is 80 per cent complete. "Deputy President Kithure Kindiki said the 10,000-capacity stadium, which is being put up at a cost of Sh700 million, is nearing completion and is expected to host the national celebrations", said DCPS.

Once complete, the stadium will host international matches and other similar events.

"Now 80% complete, the stadium will be used by generations of Kitui for sports tournaments and other activities", said the Deputy President.

The county has benefited from other projects which are part of preparations of hosting Mashujaa Day Celebrations.  They include massive road upgrade, electricity and water supply upgrades as well as rehabilitation of the Ithookwe Airstrip. The airstrip will be used for transporting guests during the celebrations.

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.

The scribes have joined hands to launch a community-driven Feed and Clothe Street Kids initiative that provides food and clothing to street children every week.

Last weekend,  over  100 street  children  were fed and clothed through  the journalists drive to touch the lives of the less fortunate.

Speaking during their latest outreach, the journalists revealed that they have been running the programme consistently for the past six months with a positive impact on the  beneficiaries.

According to the group’s chairperson, Linah Musangi,  there was a need to help reintegrate the children into society. She appealed  for support from well wishers so as to attain the goal.

She pointed out that a significant number of the children had expressed the desire to go back to school, while others wished to pursue income-generating activities to sustain themselves.

"Most of the children are out here because of squalor at home and hope to get well wishers to take them back to school," she said

"Over 70% of the street children are not in school since their parents could not afford to retain them in school due to the high  levies charged," she added.

Another member, Amrose Savali, supported the  idea  of  finding a lasting  solution to the dehumanising life the  street urchins  have to contend with.

He emphasized that without such concrete interventions, many street children  are more likely than not  to drift into crime as they grow older thus  becoming a menace to society.

Savali  noted that the initiative, known as Feed and Clothe Street Kids, is aimed at distracting  them  from crime and offering hope for a better future like any other normal person.

Shadrack Ilava, a veteran journalist, noted that the major cause of rise in their number is high  poverty levels. He said it was  high time  a good number of well wishers  came out to give  the desired  and much needed support.

One reason lies in the fear of responsibility. Relationships, for example, demand emotional commitment, sacrifice, and maturity in an age where freedom, self-discovery, and career-building dominate youth culture. Many feel like relationships may tie them down or add unnecessary pressure. Instead, they prefer casual friendships or connections that don’t demand much emotional labour.

Another factor is the instant gratification  of their mindset that has become common in the digital era. Social media platforms offer fast, entertaining, and less demanding interactions, which  young people to expect simplicity.

Complex conversations, whether about politics, climate change, or even personal struggles, seem too slow and draining compared to the endless scroll of memes, trends, and viral challenges.

There is also a sense of disillusionment. Many youths believe that engaging in serious matters changes little. After all, they see leaders ignore citizen voices, relationships collapse despite effort, and society moves on despite protests or intellectual debates.

This perception of futility makes them choose silence or detachment over active participation.

Mental health pressures further play a role, how? With rising rates of stress, depression, and anxiety, many young people are already juggling heavy emotional burdens. This is by adding complex activities in terms of maintaining a serious relationship or debating intricate issues which can feel  overwhelming choose peace of mind over complexity.

However, avoiding complexity comes at a cost. Relationships helps in shaping  emotional intelligence, while engaging in tough discussions builds critical thinking towards leadership. Without these, the youth risk becoming a generation skilled in avoiding problems rather than solving them.

Yet, all hope is not lost. Across universities, community forums, and digital platforms, some young voices are stepping forward challenging stereotypes, forming meaningful bonds, and leading debates on issues that affect their future.

Perhaps what the youth need is not more blame, but safer spaces where they can learn and experiment things which focus on growth without fear of failure.

After having a number of discussions  in my TikTok live talks with my fellow youths, I noticed  that the avoidance is less about laziness and more about a search for balance. 

Today’s youth crave simplicity not because they cannot handle complexity, but because they are still learning how to carry it.