Due to respect and resilience from their unique governance system to their vibrant rituals, the Meru culture stands as a testament to their endearing spirit of Kenya highlands communities. 

PEOPLE OF THE HIGHLANDS

The Meru people, also known as the Amiiru, trace their origins to the north east of Africa,with oral traditions suggesting migrations from present day Ethiopia or the coastal region of Somalia. They eventually settled on the eastern slopes of Mt kenya where they found fertile soils and favourable climate for farming. Traditionally, Meru society was structured into sub- tribes, including Igembe, Tigania, Imenti, Miutini and Tharaka.Despite slight difference in dialect and customs, these groups share a strong cultural bond, united by a common language - Kimeru- and a deep believe for their ancestors. 

THE COUNCIL OF ELDERS:A TRADITIONAL SYSTEM OF GOVERNANCE 

One of the most distinctive aspect of Meru culture is its traditional system of governance led by the Njuri Ncheke- a council of elders tasked with settling disputes, preserving customs and advising the community. This institution, which still holds influence today, function as a judicial body, ensuring justice and social harmony among the Meru. The Njuri Ncheke- is not just a legal authority but also a sacred institution.  Membership is highly selective, granted only to those who demostrate wisdom, integrity and a Bachelor deep understanding of cultural laws. Even in modern times, the council plays a role in conflict resolution, land matters and preservation of Meru traditions.

RITE OF PASSAGE AND THE CYCLE OF LIFE

Life among the Meru is marked by significant rites of passage that guide individuals from one stage to another. These ceremonies are deeply spiritual symbolizing growth, responsibilities and the continuity of the community.

1 BIRTH AND NAMING,

A child name is marked by a significant meaning, often reflecting family history, seasons or specific circumstances surrounding the birth.

2 CIRCUMCISION. The most well known rite of passage (irua) It's a crucial transition to adulthood. For boys, it signifies bravery and readiness for responsibilities. In the past,it also marked the entry into being a warrior, a phase where young men protected the community. 

MUSIC DANCE AND ORAL TRADITIONS. Music and dance are at the heart of Meru celebrations and ceremonies traditional instruments like the ntambura( a stringed instrument) drums and rattle create rhythmic beats that accompany lively dances. Songs tell stories of love war, harvest, and historical events ,preserving the wisdom of post generations . 

Oral storytelling is another key aspect of Meru cultural. Elders pass down folktale, proverbs and legends, teaching younger generations about morality, respect and the interconnectedness of life.One famous story is that of ( Mugwe) a reveared spiritual leader believed to have guided the Meru people during their migration.

SPIRITUALITY AND CONNECTION TO NATURE

The Meru have traditionally believed in a supreme being called (Murungu) who is associated with Mount Kenya, a sacred place for prayer and reflection. While many Meru people have adopted Christianity, traditional beliefs still influence cultural practices, including respect for ancestors' spirits and nature. Sacred sites such as graves and rivers, play an essential role in rituals and sacrifices. Rain making ceremonies, blessings for harvest and communal prayers reinforce the bond between the Meru and their environment.

PRESERVING TRADITION IN A CHANGING WORLD

Like many indigenous cultures, the Meru way of life is evolving in response to modern influence.Urbanization, technology and Western education have altered traditional structure yet many aspect of Meru cultures remain intact. The Njuri Ncheke continues to play a key role in leadership while festival and cultural event help younger generations connect their roots. Efforts are also being made to document and teach Kimeru- in schools, ensuring that the language remains a vibrant part of everyday life. As the Meru people navigate the modern world, they carry with them the strength, wisdom and traditions of their ancestors proofing that culture is not just about the past but about shaping the future as well.

Recent reports from the National Authority for the Campaign Against Drug Abuse Authority show that drug abuse among youth is on the rise; driven by factors like peer pressure, unemployment and the stress of navigating societal expectations. The easy availability of drugs in certain regions has worsened the problem, making it More difficult for young people to resist temptation.

The end results of drug abuse are devastating. Physically, it leads to health issues, including addiction and mental health disorders. Socially, it detaches individuals from their families and communities, often resulting in broken relationships and last opportunities. Economically, healthcare and rehabilitation costs impose a heavy burden on family, hence the nation.

Kenya, as a nation, has made significant strides to tackle this issue. Organizations such the Africa Institute of Mental and Brain Health and the Silwan Fountain treatment and Recovery Center are working diligently to provide support and rehabilitation for those affected. In addition to that, awareness campaigns in schools and communities aim to educate young people about the dangers of drug abuse. The government has also Sanctioned policies to regulate the sale and distribution of drugs, while community leaders and religious organizations play a crucial role in promoting a culture of prevention and support. 

The fight against drug abuse in Kenya is collective effort. Parents, educators, policymakers, and the youth must collaborate to create an environment where young people feel supported and empowered to make healthy choices. By addressing the root cause and providing accessible resources, we can work towards a brighter.

A study released by World Weather Attribution in April 2023 detailed how five consecutive seasons of rainfall below normal levels in the Horn of Africa have resulted in decreased availability of surface water, deteriorating pasture, leading to livestock loss and widespread harvest failure, leaving millions in need of humanitarian assistance.

The repercussions of these prolonged droughts in Kajiado have been catastrophic. News coverage in June 2024 reported how over one million cattle, goats, and sheep had died of hunger, with 400,000 households on the brink of starvation and dependent on food aid for survival.

Samuel Nkitoria is a program officer at Hope Beyond Foundation, a Kenyan NGO that promotes the rights of women and girls in Kajiado County through education, advocacy, and rescuing those affected by sexual and gender-based violence. Samuel explained how the daily challenge of accessing water and other essential resources is putting girls at a greater risk of human rights violations.

How have families and in particular girls in Kajiado County been affected by the prolonged droughts.

Families in Kajiado County face severe consequences from prolonged drought, such as many cattle dying due to limited access to water and animal pasture. This exacerbates poverty, affecting the ability of families to meet basic needs. The main food to most families was usually milk. When it comes to such difficult circumstances, families halt the education process of their children, especially girls. In extreme conditions, families resort back to prioritizing immediate survival over education.

Unfortunately, girls may be withdrawn from school to help with most domestic responsibilities or contribute to the family’s source of income.

Extreme weather changes lead to economic hardships, prompting families to develop coping mechanisms. Poverty is a great motivator of early marriage, and in dire circumstances, families may see it as a way to reduce economic burden.

In the past few years, and especially just before the rains in this year, it is estimated that over 80% of cattle died.

In a bid to recoup livestock lost during drought, some families have married off their daughters in exchange for cattle and to earn money.

Some girls have dropped out of schools due to hunger, especially from schools in the most interior and remote locations where food programs are not available. At home, they may be exposed to increased health risks and heightened vulnerability to harmful practices as they get sent long distances in search of water and pasture for cattle.

Climate change can also indirectly contribute to the practice of FGM. Culturally, education for the girl in the Maasai community was never a priority, and this has perpetuated the ideology of early marriage after a girl has undergone the cut. Drought results in economic hardships, and families opt to cut their girls so that they can be ready for marriage.

Cutters carry out FGM as a way of earning an income in the wake of the hardships brought about by climate change. Some of these cutters will influence parents to cut their girls at a fee ranging from KSh. 500 upwards. This is approximately $3.25 USD / £2.60 GBP, while citing that the girl will be ready for marriage. This triggers some families to capitalize because they are looking for a livelihood.

What is Hope Beyond Foundation doing to help girls? Education for girls has come about through a lot of advocacy and awareness creation. Although there has been positive change, there is still quite a large number of people in the community who believe once a girl gets to a certain age or has reached a certain class in school, they are ripe for marriage.

Hope Beyond Foundation has embarked on empowerment training with different women's groups in our locality. They provide a business perspective and teach them about diversifying to beadwork as a business. Some women have of course taken the art of beadwork to ensure that even in the wake of climatic changes, they still can earn an income to sustain their families, hence keeping girls safe.

Hope Beyond runs a rescue centre and school, which have been instrumental in providing a safe space for girls who have been rescued after the fact or are at risk of undergoing harmful practices.

In addition to that, the organization has a strong partnership with the relevant government authorities to ensure the perpetrators of the cultural vices are apprehended and also provide psychological counseling to victims. This has helped us have our ears on the ground and offer quick responses to help girls in danger.

Hope Beyond Foundation’s message to the international community and people about the urgent need to take action to address climate change.

Hope Beyond Foundation urges the international community to recognize the urgent link between climate change, gender-based violence, and any other harmful practices. The organization stresses the need for collaborative efforts to implement sustainable solutions, support vulnerable communities, and promote policies addressing both climate change and the associated socio-cultural challenges.

It is also very important to ensure resources trickle down to the grassroots organizations that are directly impacting the community through different initiatives. They are the people on the ground, and they understand what works and what doesn’t in the community. Immediate and direct action is crucial to protect the rights and well-being of girls in the face of climate-induced hardships.

Many parents and human rights defenders have raised concern about it whereby student leaders from all Kenyan universities have given a warning to the government of Kenya that a big strike is in offing if changes will not be made early in advance.

Kenyans rightfully aspire to quality and accessible education but the current funding system is faulty.

Despite raising critical concerns which are evident as countless students  struggle to access education, bureaucratic red tape has delayed the case hearing within a mention set in November  last year more than two years after a petition was filed for a matter so crucial to the integrity of Kenyan education and system.

Kenyans should know that our education sector took a tragic turn the moment the government introduced a new funding model and started forcing the students to individually apply for loans and scholarships with eligibility determined by the flawed means testing instruments.

The government is trying to categories the students based on their needs. This instrument lacks a scientific basis since my students are needy and yet they end up being in wrong bands something which has led to some students failing to get a chance to university.The problem is so direct that the government has recognized that many students cannot access financial assistance and urged them to report to universities and colleges, promising that they will be able to attend classes. However, this is setting students up for failure.  

University requires the students to register units at the starting of every academic year but this might not happen meaning many students will be barred from attending classes. A big question which is in the minds of many is why the government is discriminating student? Why can't they use normal old funding model which seems to be somehow good but full of delays? However, on December 20 2024 the court declared the funding model unconstitutional. This ruling has left many students wondering as they wait for solution to the funding crisis. Many students say that they were not given any clear guidance which was unfortunate during the time of applications a situation which made them to be placed in wrong bands which could not cater for their school fee needs. The High Court decision has thrown the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) and the University Fund back to the drawing board as they scramble to figure out next course of action. With the legal challenges unresolved, there are no guarantees that students will receive the financial support they need in time for the new semester.

Student leaders from different universities in the country have given a warning to the government that failure to wipe away the new funding model they will mobilise the students to strike all over the country until the government will respond to their demands with the immediate effect. On top of that the lecturers have issued a warning that they are going for strike in fourteen days time, something which will affect the education in the country.The government is really lacking the procedure to implement their policies.The government seems to have  failed its citizens in implementing their agendas since corruption since is rampant in the country. Misuse of public funds by the government officials is not an issue to be addressed tomorrow.

The delay has been felt since last year following a 90-day foreign aid freeze by American President Donald Trump after he won the November election and boisterously started his second four-year term. A severe shortage of the life-saving medicines is being felt in health clinics countrywide.

The HIV drugs were to be distributed to the hospitals nationwide in January. This was stalled as President Trump's aid suspension took effect on January 20. The drugs cannot be released as the Ministry of Health is waiting for the National Treasury to allocate Sh1.2 billion for the distribution to the counties.

Medicines worth Sh3.88 billion, which are part of the United States President's Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (Pepfar), are stuck at the Mission for Essential Drugs and Supplies warehouse as patients scramble for the lifesaving medication.

Should the drugs not be released on time, there will be terrible consequences, including more children getting infected by HIV. It is a mockery of health service delivery to have stocks of drugs that would-be beneficiaries cannot get.

This is disappointing as Kenya has the seventh-largest number of people living with HIV in the world, some 1.4 million, according to health experts. Pepfar funds 40 per cent of the country's HIV drugs and other supplies.

The clampdown by President Trump on the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has left a huge gap in Kenya's HIV management. The most affected areas include the workforce in HIV services to which USAID contributed Sh5.8 billion.

The government should take control of the procurement.