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Mentally unstable child kills cousin in Kiomo

An eleven-year-old pupil from Kiomo Primary School was killed by a mentally unstable cousin aged 17.The 17-year-old boy is a Form Three student in Kiomo Secondary School. He killed the younger cousin and fled as they were left at home alone.
An 11-year-old boy was killed by his elder cousin in Mangoloma village, Kiomo sub location, Mwingi West, area assistant chief Ms Bendeta Mutisya confirmed.|FILE

Confirming the incident, Kiomo assistant chief Bendeta Wamuo Mutisya said the children were left at home on their own when the incident occured. She added that the crime was committed using a panga. The young boy bled profusely as he screamed in pain. When their aunt responded to the distress call, she found the boy dead.

"No one knows what actually happened but the younger cousin skipped attending class so that he is bought shoes. The older one has suspected epilepsy and usually falls when the condition worsens. When that happens, he is usually very violent", explained Assistant Chief Ms Mutisya.

The aunt found that the younger one bleeding on his stabbed back and abdomen, dying.The administrator issued a warning to parents saying that they should take care of their children. She said this after revealing that the sick young man was reported in school earlier  by teachers and the parents never went to know about what was wrong. They only sent a bodaboda rider to take the boy home and he stay there ever since. She said they should take the sick child to hospital.

By ROSE MWANGANGI

Not every prayer was answered as I wanted

High-flying Rwandan gospel artist Israel Mbonyi's new hit Kaa Nami (Stay With Me) has close to one million views on YouTube, a week after he launched it on his official channel.
Israel Mbonyi, Rwandan gospel artist.

The worship lyrics are that God's blessings stay with him in his journey and that he will not give up.

Living with the reality that not all prayers will be answered as he wants, his last plea is that God remembers him by grace.

A day after we posted the new hit requesting for your reviews, this is what we got. "Very deep.
All the lyrics are deep and melodies are catchy 👏🏽
Pure gospel too.", said Ms Grace Mawia, a Kenyan gospel artist.

We also sampled some views on YouTube:
@risenstrength:Plz kaa nami eeh Mungu wangu.
@LynnNgugi:Sio kila ombi litajibiwa nitakavyo.

By MUSYOKA NGUI

I kept faith in my sporting talent despite huge odds

With discipline and determination, Faith Muli has sharpened her sporting career over the years since she started playing football in Standard Five. She advised her fellow youths especially young women to put more efforts in their work after putting God first.
Having discovered she can play professional football early in life, Faith Muli says that her search for greatness in the pitch has not been without hurdles but has constantly tried her best and got rewarded for it.|MWINGI TIMES

Faith was born in Kyuso ward, Mwingi North.  Before completing secondary school, she played up to regionals, "but with many problems".

Faith went on to play for Coast Starlets FC in 2022. Having done well on the pitch, she moved to Kayole Starlets National Super League, NSL in 2023 where she did one season.

Having being molded by her new team, Faith has kind words for her Zetecs Sparks FC coach who she says always encouraged her to try harder as a shining starlet.

"I loved playing for Zetecs because they needed me and I needed them too", she concludes.

By ROSE MWANGANGI

Addressing water shortage in ASALs

Kalimbui Mixed Day Secondary School in Mwingi North sub county, Kitui county is among three pilot schools that the Kenyan government in partnership with the Brazilian government are building water harvesting and rain harvesting concrete cisterns in schools. The beneficiary learning institutions are located in Arid and Semi-Arid [ASAL] counties of Kitui, Embu and Tharaka Nithi.
Ongoing construction activity at Kalimbui Mixed Day Secondary School in Mwingi North Sub County on October 8. The school is among the three selected in Kenya in a KSh 15Million pilot project that will involve building a water tank in a partnership between Kenyan government and that of Brazil.|MWINGI TIMES

The Brazilian government donated $100000 [KSh15.7M] in assistance to helping Kenyans affected by prolonged drought spell. A letter dated October 1 seen by MWINGI TIMES reads in part, "This follows the Brazilian Government's donation of $100,000 [KSh15,739,120] that was made in response to H.E. President's January 2023 International humanitarian appeal to support food insecure Kenyans affected by the prolonged drought spell". The letter was from the office of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

Ndunguni Primary School in Embu county and Nkarini Primary School in Tharaka Nithi county are the other two pilot schools under the same program.
Kalimbui Mixed Day Secondary School Principal Mr Andrew Munyalo in his office during our interview on Tuesday. He welcomed the cistern project. While thanking the government and its partners for helping  reduce water shortage in the arid and semi-arid region, he requested more schools in the area to be supported since they are also affected by the dire water woes.|MWINGI TIMES

Speaking to MWINGI TIMES at Kalimbui Mixed Secondary School, the principal Mr Andrew Munyalo thanked the government for choosing his school in addressing severe water shortage experienced in the area. The 16,000 litre water tank will be used by the school fraternity in cooking, drinking and washing, he said. "We have water shortage in our school. Once the water tank is constructed, it will supply enough water to the school", said the principal.

"I thank the government and donor for identifying us for the water cistern project. I urge them to extend the same to other schools around since they also suffer from water shortage" he went on.
Office of Deputy President Liaison officer Mr Hilary Ole Mooke (centre), Tseikuru Deputy County Commissioner Ms Anita Mwangi and other government officials during a visit to Kalimbui Mixed Day Secondary School during the launch of water cistern project that will see the school address biting water shortage.  They will also tour Nkarini Primary School in Tharaka Nithi and Ndunguni Primary School in Embu counties for similar activities. The project is funded by the Brazilian government.|MWINGI TIMES

Accompanying the Brazilian government officials and senior Kenyan government staff in touring the school, Tseikuru Deputy County Commissioner Ms Anita Mwangi urged the community to own the project as it is meant to benefit all.

By MUSYOKA NGUI

HOW GOVT LOST SH 7B IN HUSTLER FUND DEFAULT

13 Millon well-to-do borrowers went for the loans in the first few months of launch and never paid back.
Only 2 Millon borrowers borrow and repay as required.
Government intends to recover your defaults from MPESA and airtime balances 
Just like digital lenders it criticized for nagging borrowers, it has resorted to sending "nagging" SMS reminders amid huge losses in Hustler Fund default, a President William Ruto 2022 campaign pledge.
It is easy to recover the cash "lost" since 98% of borrowers still use their unique identifiable numbers, mobile phone lines and their National IDs are known for tracking them down in the recovery process 
About 2-3% of borrowers died. There is no recovery option for them.
A parliamentary report shows that the Hustler Fund was rolled out without insurance opening a huge loophole for pilferage or taxpayers' money 

Kitui will largely get below average OND rain- Met

The meteorological department has announced the marginal wards of Kitui County will receive very little rainfall during the imminent October-December short rains.
Kitui Director of Meteorological Services Daniel Mbithi during a past interview.|MWINGI TIMES

Kitui Meteorological Services director, Daniel Mbithi, said  the rains will come late in the fourth week of October with Athi, Mutha, Endau- Malalani, Nguni and Ngomeni wards getting minimal rain.

“Although the rain is generally expected to be near or below normal, Kitui County will generally experience depressed rains that will cease early in the second or third week of December,” noted Mbithi.

Speaking to newsmen in Kitui last weekend, Mbithi advised farmers in Kitui County to plant early in order to expect some harvest. He emphasized on the planting of drought tolerant and early maturing crops.

“In order to avoid crop failure from the depressed rains, farmers are supposed to grow early maturing and drought escaping crops like mung bean, millet, sorghum and cowpeas,” said Mbithi.

He said even as farmers plant early maturing or drought tolerant crops they should as well invoke regenerative agriculture innovations like the creation of Zai pits and building of terracing.

He added that applying manure and mulching to minimize evaporations when it rains would be a prudent move.

Mbithi further said growing grass would be a good option for farmers in Kitui especially livestock keepers because grass does not need a lot of rain to grow and would ensure good pasture for animals.

The met official discouraged the growing of maize during the coming rains except in the highland areas in the central and north western parts of Kitui that expected to receive between 400mm to 500mm of rainfall.

He named the areas as Miambani, Mulango, Kyangwithya East, Nzambani, Kyuluni, Matinyani, Mutonguni, Mumoni and Tharaka wards of the county.

Mbithi said farmers in the ecological zone that is expected to receive rains of between 300 to 400 mm would be safe to grow early maturing maize varieties.

He, however, cautioned that intermitted dry spells would be experienced.

By JOHN MUSEMBI

OPINION divided as Embu residents discuss DP impeachment

A political storm is brewing in Embu County, where a section of residents is calling for the impeachment of Kenya’s Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua accusing him of tribalism and divisive politics. During a meeting held at the Talent Academy in Embu, local residents voiced their dissatisfaction, urging Parliament to act. They argued that Gachagua's behavior undermines national unity and President William Ruto’s agenda.
Embu town residents struggle to have a mic to air their views over Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's impeachment.|MWINGI TIMES

Key figures like Gikundo wa Gikundo expressed concerns over DP Gachagua’s actions, labeling them as a threat to Kenya’s democratic fabric. Esbon Nyaga echoed these sentiments, showing support for the impeachment push.

However, there were mixed reactions from the community, with some residents opposing the move, fearing political instability or bias against the Deputy President.

This local agitation aligns with a broader national outcry against Gachagua, as 291 MPs recently signed an impeachment motion accusing him of tribalism, corruption, and gross misconduct. Gachagua has been criticized for demanding disproportionate government appointments for his Mt. Kenya region, a move that many see as parochial and divisive. Labour CS Dr Alfred Mutua, among others, supported the motion, asserting that Gachagua’s leadership was fueling ethnic tensions and threatening national unity.

However a number of residents called on those pushing for Gachagua impeachment to leave him to work for the people saying the moving was politically motivated.

They said it was not the right time for the impeachment and called on President to break his silence.

If the impeachment proceeds, Gachagua could be the first Deputy President in Kenya's history to face such action under the current constitution. The outcome remains uncertain, but it is clear that his political future is under intense scrutiny.

By MWINGI TIMES REPORTER 

Tough balancing act in delivering elections goodies in Kitui

Leaders of the Executive and Legislative arms of Kitui County have agreed to work together for the benefit of residents.
Kitui Deputy Governor Augustine Kanani (left), Governor Julius Malombe and County Assembly Speaker Kevin Kinengo during the Friday presser at a Mombasa Hotel.|MWINGI TIMES
Governor Julius Malombe and Speaker Kevin Katisya held a press conference after a weeklong consultative meeting. They agreed to nurture good leadership in governing the County of Kitui. 

The leaders held consultative forum dubbed "Financing County Development In The Face of Shrinking Fiscal Space". The venue was a Mombasa hotel.

Later, Kitui Governor Dr Malombe read a joint communique at the close of the seven day conference. "Both H.E. the Governor and the Hon. Speaker will continue to offer leadership and effective governance on matters impacting on the livelihoods of our people", he said.

The second term Wiper party county boss said that he will continue working with the County Assembly while respecting the principle of separation of powers. Speaker Katisya said that the consultative meeting was key in helping the county government prioritize projects and programmes that will transform the lives of wananchi.

By MWINGI TIMES CORRESPONDENT

Wiper MP tells off Kalonzo on DP Gachagua impeachment

Mwingi West MP Charles Nguna has told off his party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, defying the party position on the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Mwingi West MP Charles Nguna.|FILE

Nguna said Gachagua’s impeachment was not a Wiper affair but a national one. He said he has good reasons why he is consciously voting out DP Gachagua from office.

The MP sought answers from his party to explain what interests the DP had for his Mwingi West constituents or even the larger Mwingi region.

 “Was he not one who lied to me about Sh30 million to grade Kwasiku - Mbondoni road to make it motor-able only for his contractor from Nakuru to come and do rocks as Murram in our road and when confronted about it “I am in authority you can do nothing”, Nguna said.

He continued “Was he not the one who blocked funds for the same road in the name of shareholding?”

The MP said he has no union or negotiations with someone who has no interest in the welfare of his constituents in upgrading of the stalled and dilapidated Kitui-Kibwezi-Migwani-Mbondoni road.

Nguna went on to answer Gachagua’s tribal bigotry whether he is a DP for Kikuyus or the entire nation or whether or when he stepped in Mwingi West or the larger Mwingi to champion for aspirations and interests for the people living there.

“I will vote YES and I don't need money to do so. I haven't taken a single cent. Wiper is not Gachagua and Gachagua has never supported Wiper,” the MP said.

Before Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse (Maendeleo Chap Chap) tabled the DP’s impeachment motion in parliament on Tuesday, Wiper party had asked the party MPs to distance themselves from the impeachment motion.

Party’s Secretary General Shakila Abdallah said the party opposes the proposed impeachment of DP Gachagua.

By PAUL MUTUA

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Tana River leaders in trouble with NCIC over Kitui skirmishes

Some elected leaders from Tana River county are under investigations by the NCIC over alleged incitement of their electorate to invade the neighboring Kitui County. They are Tana River woman representative Amina Dika, Bura MP Yakub Kuno, his Galole counterpart Said Hiribae and Bangale ward representative Jabril Farah. Still on NCIC radar is former Tana River county MP Rehema Hassan.

MCA for Bangale Jibril Farah who has been summoned by NCIC.|MWINGI TIMES

The summons come in the wake of multiple raids of Kona Kaliti police station which left property of unknown value destroyed. Kitui County Commissioner Kipchumba Rutto said last week during a press conference that part of destruction of Kona Kaliti police station included shattering of window panes. Solar panels and batteries were also stolen by the attackers.

Consequently, police officers assigned to Kona Kaliti police station were moved from the station for their own safety. The ongoing construction is being carried out by the County Government of Kitui to boost security along the volatile border between Kitui and Tana River counties.

Kitui County Commissioner Kipchumba Rutto said last week that Tana River county residents had moved into Kitui County with their livestock and camped in South Kitui National Game Reserve, a protected area. The residents are said to have destroyed Kona Kaliti police station and put a stop to the construction of Katumba police station.

NCIC acting Chairperson Harrison Kariuki said the Tana River leaders are being investigated for alleged incitement. According to a letter from NCIC dated September 30, 2024, leaders from Tana River county we summoned to appear before NCIC offices without fail in Upper Hill on October 8, 2024 to help in investigations.

NCIC accuses Said and Dika of inciting residents of Galole constituency in Tana River county to destroy Kona Kaliti police station in Kitui South."These statements are reported to have incited feelings of contempt, hatred, hostility, violence or discrimination among residents living along the border of Kitui and Tana River counties", read the NCIC letter in part.

Additionally, Kuno and Hassan are accused of inciting their residents to invade Kitui County and attack residents while forcefully grazing their camels.

Bangale MCA Farah will respond to allegations of inciting residents of Katumba area against the building of a police station in the said jurisdiction.

NCIC cautioned the Tana River elected leaders against ignoring the summons saying that they carry equal weight as High Court summons according to Section 29 of the NCIC Act.

By MWINGI TIMES CORRESPONDENT

Sunny conditions and strong winds expected in Kitui-Met

The first week of October will be marked by sunny conditions during the day while nights are likely to be cloudy. A few places in Kitui County are likely to experience morning rains and afternoon showers, Kitui County Director of Meteorological Services Daniel Mbithi said in the weekly weather forecast sent to newsrooms.
Rainfall forecast for the month of October 2024.|KENYA METEOROLOGICAL DEPARTMENT 
This week will be hot, KMD weather forecast shows. The maximum temperature according to the weatherman will range from 25°C to 36°C. As for the minimum readings on thermometer, it will be between 14°C and 23°C.

Residents have been warned about strong winds likely to continue blowing across various regions in Kitui County. "Strong southerly to south easterly winds with speeds exceeding 25 knots [12.9m/s] are expected in most parts of the County", said Mr Mbithi.

Ward extension officers will come in handy in order to help farmers use the best farm practices for best harvests during the upcoming October-November-December rains.

By JOHN MUSEMBI

The bitter split in Mbeere lucrative sand harvesting business

Businesses in Mutuombare market in Kiambere ward, Mbeere South, Embu County, have been forced to shut down following a heated standoff over control of the lucrative sand business. The dispute, which has sparked growing unrest in the area, comes just days after residents of Karura launched their own Community-Based Organization (CBO), breaking away from the existing Kiambere Ward CBO—a move that has deeply divided the community.
Police clear barricaded Kivaa-Mutuombare road in Mbeere South.|MWINGI TIMES CORRESPONDENT

The split has fueled fierce opposition from supporters of the established CBO, paralyzing the sand business. The situation escalated  when angry locals blocked the Kivaa-Mutuombare road by felling massive trees and rolling boulders onto the road, rendering the route impassable. The protesters also lit bonfires at several key points, further crippling transport and leaving many stranded.

The members of Karura CBO accused the leadership of the existing CBO of uneven distribution of resources of the proceeds of sand business which prompted them to open their own CBO and collect their own revenue for the development of this area.

The standoff has prompted a swift response from police, who worked to clear the road blocks.

Authorities are urging calm, but with the community bitterly divided, the situation remains volatile.

By MWINGI TIMES CORRESPONDENT

Resolve differences with President privately, Mbarire tells DP

Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire has affirmed her commitment to supporting President William Ruto, emphasizing that her primary goal is to ensure the residents of Embu benefit from government projects and development initiatives. As the Chairperson of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), Mbarire expressed strong loyalty to the president, underscoring the overwhelming support that Embu county gave Dr William Ruto in the last election. 
Governor Cecily Mbarire when she was addressing congregants at NICA church Irangi Runyenjes constituency. MWINGI TIMES|Brian Musyoka

While speaking at NICA church Irangi in Runyenjes constituency during a church service, Mbarire said abandoning Ruto at this stage would be unwise, given the high expectations for development from Embu residents. "People of Embu county overwhelmingly voted for President William Ruto. We cannot run away from him since we need development in our county. I personally will never point a figure to the president. When you want us to talk about the Mountain when other areas have tarmac roads where shall Embu get those tarmacs if we abandon the president,?"Mbarire asked.

Governor Mbarire made it clear that her focus is on constructive dialogue and progress, distancing herself from political debates that do not contribute to the county's development. She urged residents to avoid being dragged into political discourses that serve no purpose but to distract from the pressing need for development in Embu. This statement appears to respond to the growing political tension involving Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua who has been facing challenges in solidifying his political bastion in the Mount Kenya region. Despite these dynamics, Mbarire insisted that the people of Embu county should remain focused on the promises made by Ruto’s administration. 

Her stance comes at a crucial time as Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua recently toured Embu, Tharaka Nithi, and Meru counties in an effort to shore up his support base amidst mounting political pressures. Mbarire, however, was unequivocal that she would not be coerced into political alliances or conflicts that do not bring tangible benefits to the people of Embu. Her comments reflect a growing sentiment in the region that while internal political differences may exist, development must remain the top priority.

Mbarire said she was focused on maintaining a stable political climate focused on results and not unnecessary politics that will only leave the locals suffering.
She urged Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to resolve any internal issues with President William Ruto privately, without dragging Kenyans into their political conflicts.
Mbarire’s call for political restraint and focus on development comes at a time of increasing tension over Gachangua ouster as some MPs allied to the Kenya Kwanza government have reportedly gathered enough signatures to table a motion for the ouster of the country's second in command .

By BRIAN MUSYOKA

Star with unique blend of gospel melodies

Sharon Mtoto Wa Mama, a rising Gospel music sensation from Embu, has captivated audiences with her vibrant performances and soulful music. Known for her unique blend of gospel melodies and traditional rhythms, she has become a beloved figure in social gatherings across the region. Her performances, whether at church events or county celebrations, bring an electric energy that draws in the crowds, leaving everyone inspired and entertained.
Sharon Mtoto Wa Mama during an earlier photo shoot.

Sharon’s songs, like the heartfelt “Nirakugooca Ngai,” showcase her powerful vocals and her deep spiritual connection. She often sings in Kimbeere, bridging modern gospel with local traditions, making her music resonate deeply with her audience. Her performances during key celebrations, such as the Madaraka Day events in Embu, have solidified her as a local favorite, winning the hearts of many with her passion for music and her ability to uplift spirits.
Sharon Mtoto Wa Mama moments after she was awarded the best female artist of the year Embu County in 2023. The competition was dubbed Embu Music Annual Awards.

Sharon's social media presence, especially on TikTok, has further amplified her reach. With thousands of followers, she regularly shares snippets of her performances, personal moments, and messages of hope, continuing to grow her fan base and inspire many with her messages of faith. 

From humble beginnings, Sharon Mtoto Wa Mama is steadily becoming a force to reckon with in Kenya’s gospel scene.

By BRIAN MUSYOKA

Cherishing clans in Ukambani

The future of Kamba community lies on the bedrock of its clans and as such, clans should be cherished, leaders said. Speaking to the press during the Annual General Meeting of Aombe clan at Kyaimu AIC church in Kitui East, the national Chairperson of Kamba clans Boniface Kilonzo underscored the important role clans play in fostering economic and political future of the tribe.
General Chairman of the Aombe clan Julius Muli, the Akamba clans national chairman Boniface Kilonzo and the Aombe clan national chairlady Joyce Muia speaking to the media during the interview at Kyaimu AIC church in Kitui East.|MWINGI TIMES

He also added that clans   make the Kamba tribe united as well as mobilizing support for challenges that are communal in nature."It would be foolhardy to allow our clans to phase out. If such a thing happens, that would sadly lead to disintegration of the cord that holds Kambas together", he said.

Also present during the AGM was Aombe clan co-chair Julius Muli and National chairlady Joyce Muia. It was sponsored by Henry Kiema who leaders described as a big-hearted clan member.

The Kamba nation has 22 clans in total. Modern religions and education were cited as major factors that make clans to wither away.

Kamba clans have in the past helped in communal tasks like school fees fundraisers and solving family conflicts. The community was advised to live in peace and support one another.

By MWINGI TIMES CORRESPONDENT

TANA River camel herders attack Kitui police station, officers withdrawn

Leaders from Tana River county have been named  by Kitui County Commissioner Kipchumba Rutto as people behind inciting of residents to invade  South Kitui National Reserve and occupy it.  Following the development, police  shared the audio and video clips with the National Cohesion and Integration Commission, NCIC. "We gave audio and video clips of Tana River leaders inciting residents of Tana River to move into Kitui and occupy the land here. Some of the leaders' utterances are clearly inciting and have been shared with NCIC", he said.
Kona Kaliti Police Station after it was defaced.|MWINGI TIMES

This comes despite leaders from both Kitui and Tana River counties having met Interior PS Raymond Omollo in the past  in order to find a lasting solution to the cross border skirmishes. Kitui County Commissioner Kipchumba Rutto said he was surprised that later, thousands of people were ferried from Tana River to occupy land in Kitui disregarding what was agreed upon.

Rutto announced that the government will flash out herders who had invaded South Kitui National Game Reserve in an operation that will be carried out humanely.

Of note is that due to invasion by armed camel herders in South Kitui National Game Reserve, security officers stationed at a newly created Kona Kaliti Police Station were withdrawn. Speaking to reporters in his office at Kitui town, Kitui County Commissioner Kipchumba Rutto said on Friday that security officials were withdrawn over prolonged attacks by armed camel herders. 

The county commissioner revealed that armed camel herders attacked Kona Kaliti Police Station on Thursday using stones.
The attack came two days after young goons defaced Kona Kaliti Police Station. 

After this happened, county commissioner Kipchumba Rutto said that Kona Kaliti Police Station was left unmanned leading to goons vandalizing it and stealing movable assets. The county commissioner said that some of the items stolen were solar panels and batteries. 

Hundreds of camel herders invaded the Kalalani KWS camp within South Kitui National Game Reserve and ejected all officers guarding the camp and later occupied it.

By MWINGI TIMES CORRESPONDENT

County officials lead cleanup exercise in Embu slums

In a determined effort to promote public health and sanitation, Embu County public health officers today led a major clean-up exercise in Shauri slums. The exercise, aimed at curbing the spread of diseases caused by poor sanitation, was spearheaded by the county Director of Public Health, Paul Ngari, alongside a team of health officers and enthusiastic community members.
Public health officers and locals cleaning up Shauri Slums in Embu town.|MWINGI TIMES

Addressing the locals during the exercise, Ngari emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards of cleanliness to avert the spread of diseases. He urged residents, especially those living in informal settlements, to make proper use of toilets and avoid open defecation, which is a major public health concern in densely populated areas.

"Clean environments are not only a sign of dignity but also a protective measure against preventable diseases," Ngari said. He further noted that slums are particularly vulnerable to sanitation-related diseases due to overcrowding and inadequate infrastructure.

Also present at the event, Henry Nthiga, Chief Officer of Public Health in Embu County. He highlighted that 85% of diseases affecting the local population can be avoided by adhering to proper sanitation practices. Nthiga urged the community to take personal responsibility in ensuring cleanliness around their homes and public spaces.

"Many waterborne and hygiene-related diseases can be completely eradicated if we all observe simple hygiene measures like proper waste disposal and regular cleaning," he said.

The clean-up initiative is part of a broader county-wide public health campaign to improve sanitation, especially in areas prone to outbreaks of diseases like cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea. Public health officers also provided educational materials to the residents on maintaining hygiene and preventing disease outbreaks.

The county government of Embu has vowed to sustain such initiatives, aiming to reduce disease outbreaks and improve the overall health standards of the population. Public health officials are calling on all residents to collaborate with local authorities in future clean-up efforts, underscoring the importance of community participation in maintaining healthy living environments.

By BRIAN MUSYOKA

Strong winds, high temperatures forecast in Kitui County-Met

This week is expected to generally exhibit sunny and dry conditions over most parts of Kitui County. The Kenya Meteorological Department, in its latest weather forecast report says that the maximum temperature during the forecast period ending September 30, will range between 25°C and 36°C while the minimum temperature will be from 13°C to 22°C.
Kitui County Director of Meteorological Services Daniel Mbithi during an earlier press briefing.|FILE
The high temperatures will also be accompanied by strong winds which are expected to be in most parts of the county. "Strong south-easterly wind with speeds exceeding 25 knots (12.9 m/s) are expected in most parts of the county ", reads the weather forecast in part.

Residents have been advised to consult their local agricultural extension officers for advice on best farm practices since the rain season is beckoning.

By JOHN MUSEMBI

Mt Kenya East Youth Leaders support DP Gachagua's impeachment

Youth leaders from Mt. Kenya East have voiced their support for the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, citing his failure to address key developmental issues and accusing him of indulging in divisive politics. Speaking in Embu town, the group, led by political lobbyist Kirangacha Mwaniki, claimed Gachagua had neglected his duties, particularly those related to reforms in the tea and coffee sectors. 
A section of Mt Kenya East before addressing press in Embu town. |MWINGI TIMES

Mwaniki criticized the Deputy President for diverting his focus toward political battles rather than addressing the pressing needs of the people, including the challenges faced by regions like Embu, Tharaka Nithi and Meru Counties which are semiarid and require special attention. He further accused Gachagua of failing to support the region during a crisis in the muguka trade, where bans from coastal counties left local farmers struggling without intervention from the DP.

"We as Muguka farmers when we had an issue with Miraa and Muguka in coastal region, never saw DP who is claiming to be Kingpin in our region coming to rescue our commodity. We fell that if we are going to have a leader close home it will be beneficial to us," said Mwaniki.

In a bold move, the leaders threw their support behind Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, endorsing him as the new spokesman for Mt. Kenya East. They praised Kindiki’s national stature and track record, believing he is better positioned to advance the region’s interests and secure development projects that have been stalled under Gachagua's leadership.

This shift is part of a broader dissatisfaction with Gachagua in the Mt. Kenya region, with reports of both youth leaders and elders withdrawing their support. Several elders recently endorsed Kindiki, signaling a growing divide within the region over the Deputy President's leadership. The elders pointed to Gachagua’s failure to address key development concerns, further exacerbating political tensions between him and President William Ruto's allies.

Although Gachagua has dismissed the impeachment talk, reports indicate growing support for the move both within and outside his political camp. Gachagua’s allies have expressed concern, alleging that opposition figures, particularly from Raila Odinga's ODM party, may be involved in plotting his ouster.

This escalating internal discord highlights a critical moment for the Deputy President as Mt. Kenya leaders, once staunch supporters, now shift their allegiance amid mounting frustrations over unfulfilled promises.

By BRIAN MUSYOKA
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