World GMO Maize Awaits Release in a Public Participation

Reading Time: 2 minutesThe National Biosafety Authority (NBA) is calling on the public to share their feedback regarding the proposed introduction of Genetically Modified Maize. Widely known as Bt maize. In a public notice, the National Biosafety Authority (NBA) announced that it had received an application from the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO), including the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), seeking approval to release Bt maize into the market. The Authority stated that it is evaluating GMO maize. In regards to ensuring its safety for both human and animal consumption. The process is being conducted in partnership with other government agencies and biosafety experts. To ensure the GMO maize is as safe as the conventional varieties cultivated by farmers. If approved, the NBA will conduct further testing of the product to evaluate its performance across various agroecological maize-growing zones in Kenya. This will comply with the Seeds and Plant Varieties Act. Which mandates that all new crop varieties undergo National Performance Trials (NPTs) before being made available for cultivation by farmers. By using fewer insecticides for pest control when cultivating Bt maize, farmers can anticipate reduced crop damage, higher yields, and lower health risks. “Before making a decision on the application. The Authority now seeks public input on the proposed environmental release or open cultivation and placement on the market of Bt maize varieties in Kenya,” the notice read in part. Members of the public are encouraged to submit their comments via NBA’s postal address or by email at btmaize@biosafetykenya.go.ke. The application follows a High Court ruling last month. Where Justice Lawrence Mugambi approved the rollout of GMOs in Kenya. The cultivation of GMO (Genetically Modified Organism) crops has sparked debates in the past, with critics voicing concerns over health and safety risks. However, President William Ruto’s administration has strongly supported GMOs. Advocating for them as a solution to the country’s food shortages. “South Africa and the USA are 100 percent GMO. Have you heard of anyone growing horns because of consuming GMO?” Ruto posed during a joint media interview last year. “I am a scientist, I would not endanger the lives of those who elected me,” he added.

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University Strike Escalates prompting Urgent Intervention from the CS

Reading Time: 2 minutesUniversity students will continue to stay at home after efforts to resolve the ongoing university lecturers’ strike faltered once more. A meeting convened by the National Assembly Committee on Education was once again called off after the Inter-Public Universities Councils Consultative Forum (IPUCCF) failed to provide documents proving that the government is ready to invest Ksh. 4.3 billion to facilitate the reopening of universities and bring students back to class. The committee was forced to summon three Cabinet Secretaries to address the issue. According to Committee Chairman Julius Melly, Education CS Julius Magoha, Labour CS Alfred Mutua, and National Treasury CS John Mbadi will appear before the committee next week to explain the government’s efforts to end the strike. READ MORE: SHA CEO Elijah Wachira suspended, Robert Ingasira appointed Acting CEO In a meeting involving the Education Committee, the Inter-Public Universities Councils Consultative Forum (IPUCCF), and the striking Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU), the university council failed to show that the Ksh. 4.3 billion needed to resolve the strike was available. Fred Simiyu Baraza, the IPUCCF Chairman, explained that the council had only managed to secure Ksh. 1.6 billion as an offer to the lecturers to end the dispute. However, the unions turned down this amount, demanding Ksh. 9.6 billion to implement the “Back to Work” agreement. “What we had available as a council was Ksh. 1.6 billion, but when UASU walked out on us, they went to the inter-ministerial committee, and that’s where the figure of Ksh. 4.3 billion was raised,” Baraza explained. He continued, “As the IPUCCF, we are under the Ministry of Education and do not issue commitment letters like the one you are requesting.” This response frustrated committee members, who accused the council of delaying the resolution process. “It is very disrespectful that we have met more than three times and still have no documentation on what we need. If they don’t have the documents, then let’s end this meeting. Why are they even here?” questioned Igembe North MP Julius Taitumu. Nabii Nabwera, the MP for Lugari, added, “Any government agency negotiating on matters that commit the government financially must have prior approval. This approval cannot be verbal. We are essentially asking the officer to provide us with a document they do not have.” In response to these frustrations, Chairman Julius Melly ended the meeting, announcing that the three Cabinet Secretaries would be summoned to appear before the committee on Tuesday, November 19, to address the issues raised regarding the ongoing strike.

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What A great mistake Made By the DCI

Reading Time: 2 minutesThe Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI) stated on Monday. Clarifying misinformation surrounding the identity of Collins Jumaisi Khalusha. They emphasized that Collins Jumaisi Khalusha is not connected to the Kware killing case. The individual implicated in the Kware killings, Jumaisi Khalusha, has confessed to the murder of forty-two women. The DCI attributed the spread of misinformation to Francis Gaitho @Faitho237. The X user was accused of issuing a misleading statement by incorrectly identifying the suspect’s name. The DCI reported that the inaccurate information included names, images, and descriptions falsely implicating Onkundi, causing considerable distress. Shortly afterward, Jairus Onkundi Morwabe, a 24-year-old graduate of Meru University of Science and Technology, voluntarily surrendered to the DCI due to concerns for his safety. “Hours later in the afternoon, our Complaints Directorate received a shaken young man in the name of Jairus Onkundi Morwabe age 24 and graduate from the Meru University of Science and Technology, who was surrendering himself to the authorities for clearance from any culpability in the ongoing investigation.” the statement from the DCI reads “Jairus is a bachelor’s degree holder in computer science from the named university, a course undertook between 2019 and 2023.” Detectives stated that Onkundi received numerous concerned messages from family and friends while was at his workplace in Parklands, Nairobi. “Jairus has since been given the necessary assistance from the side of the police, and his press briefing provides an opportunity to clarify to the members of the public that the 24-year-old is not a criminal, and neither is he wanted by the DCI for any reason whatsoever.” The statement reads READ ALSO: More Bodies Recovered in the Kware Dumpsite Meanwhile, Khalusha, a 33-year-old murder suspect, was apprehended at a club in Kayole on Sunday night and was found in possession of multiple SIM cards. He is accused of murdering the victims and disposing of their bodies in polythene bags discovered at the dump site. According to Citizen Digital, the suspect has been transferred to the DCI headquarters in Kiambu. Where he waits for further police procedures. On Sunday, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja confirmed that authorities had recovered 8 bodies and 12 body parts from the dumpsite, as investigations into the tragic incident continue. Meanwhile, families who had reported missing loved ones have gathered at the Nairobi Funeral Home. Formally known as City Mortuary, to identify their relative among the recovered bodies.

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More Bodies Recovered in the Kware Dumpsite

Reading Time: 2 minutesOn Sunday, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja announced that eight bodies and 12 Body parts had been recovered from the Kware Dumpsite in Embakasi South Constituency. Governor Sakaja pledged that his administration would provide necessary support to the families of the deceased and to residents of Kware, who are still grappling with the shocking incident. “We have mobilized our resources to help the families of the victims once they are identified, including providing psychological support and counseling at the funeral him,” Governor Sakaja Stated. Sakaja underscored that the county disaster management team is actively collaborating with and assisting the affected families alongside other government authorities. he also urges for calm as the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) conducts its investigation to uncover those accountable for these reprehensible acts. READ ALSO: “People” Accuses Biden Administration in the Trump Assassination Attempt During a joint press briefing on Sunday, Acting Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and DCI Director Mohamed Amin assured the public that investigations into the killings are underway, with several persons of interest already identified. Security officials reported that eight bodies have been retrieved from the dumpsite situated in Mukuru Kwa Njega slums. Six bodies were found on Friday, with an additional two discovered on Saturday. However, members of the Public present at the scene have contested this figure. “The modus operandi was almost the same. If you look at the age, it was between 18 to 30. These are all female. If you look at how the bodies have been disguised and packaged- all the same,” Min stated, noting that bodies were dumped at a similar spot in the dumpsite,” said Amin. The DCI director further argued that there are various circumstances behind the gruesome murders. ” Are we dealing with a cult that is associated with criminal activities? Are we dealing with serial killers that are also associated with criminal activities? or even, could we be dealing with rogue medical practitioners who are dealing with criminal activities? All these are hypotheses we have tried to bring on board.”

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High Court Suspends Social Health Insurance Fund Implementation

Reading Time: 2 minutesThe Social Health Insurance Bill is designed to revamp Kenya’s health financing structure. The funds were to focus on resolving longstanding issues within the National Insurance Fund (NHIF) and extending the reach of health insurance coverage. Just a week following the issuance of a Gazette notice of health cabinet secretary. Susan Nakhumicha to activate the Social Health Insurance Fund. The high court has halted the enforcement of the Social Health Insurance Fund Act 2023, the Primary Health Care 2023, and the Digital Health Act 2023. This suspension will remain in effect until a legal challenge questioning its legitimacy is heard. The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacist, and Dentist Union (KMPDU) followed through on its promise to contest the implementation of the social health insurance scheme. The doctor’s union secured court orders to halt the government’s scheduled launch of universal health coverage outlined in the laws. President William Ruto announced would take effect in January 2024. KMPDU contends that the government implemented the Social Health Insurance Act without involving stakeholders to address the disputed concerns. READ ALSO: WHO Confirms the First Sexual Transmission of Mpox in Congo The doctor’s union raised concerns regarding section 25(5) of the SHIF Act. Which stipulates that “Any person who is registered as a member in this act. Shall produce proof of compliance with the provisions of this Act on registration and contribution as a precondition of accessing public service. Either from the national government, county government, or national and county government entities.” The unions argue that it will deprive Kenyan citizens of access to government services. This occurred shortly after the Health Cabinet Secretary held discussions with the NHIF staff. Regarding the transition to the new scheme. During the meeting, she assured them that the transition, despite potential job losses, would be conducted in a dignified manner. The Health Cabinet Secretary cautioned NHIF staff against any efforts to undermine the transition to the Social Health Authority.

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Nairobi City Top List of Must-Visit Cities for 2024

Reading Time: 2 minutesIn a surprising turn of events, Nairobi capital city of Kenya, claims the title of the best city to visit in 2024. Outshining both Paris and Montreal. This vibrant East African metropolis has taken the travel world by storm with its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and a burgeoning arts scene that beckons adventures from around the globe. The Lonely Planet is a United States-based travel company. Has bestowed the honor of the top travel destination for 2024 upon Nairobi. Lonely Planet’s “Best in Travel 2024” list highlights ten travel destinations. Categorized into countries, cities, sustainability, and value. Nairobi- Capital city of Kenya secured the top position in the cities ranking, with Paris (France) and Montreal (Canada). Closely in second and third place respectively. The cities of Mostar in Bosnia and Philadelphia-USA rounded out the esteemed top five list. Placing sixth through tenth on the list, we find Manaus- Brazil, Jakarta-Indonesia, Prague- Czech Republic, Izamir-Turkey, and Kansas City in Missouri-USA in that order. Nairobi stood as the sole African city featured on the list. READ ALSO: The Most Economical Personal Cars in the World “Kenya’s capital is staking its claims as a global center of culture, sizzling with unmissable travel experiences. The city is shrugging off the colonial gaze and embracing its unique rhythms. with a dynamic array of restaurants, food carts, and cafes, along with a steady rotation of arts and cultural venues that all fuel a distinct Nairobi cool,” reads the Lonely Planet Website. Incorporate its namesake national park, abundant with wildlife and conveniently accessible from the city center, and you’ll create a truly unforgettable journey. Furthermore, according to Lonely Planet, Nairobi’s notable attraction encompasses watching traditional music and dance performances at the Bomas of Kenya. Embarking on a sunrise stroll through the Ngong Hills Forest for panoramic vistas of Mt. Kenya and Mt. Kilimanjaro. Exploring Nairobi National Park for an affordable safari set against the backdrop of the city’s changing skyline. Finally, they ascend to the pinnacle of the Kenyatta International Conference Center to enjoy a 360-degree view of the city.

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The Tragedy Strikes at Kericho’s Mashujaa Day Celebrations

Reading Time: 2 minutesDuring the Mashujaa Day celebration in Kericho, a chaotic stampede resulted in the tragic loss of 4 women’s lives and left 13 others injured. The commotion was triggered by spilled tea at the event venue. The deadly incident occurred at 3 a.m. on Friday, hours before the stadium gates were opened to the public in preparation for national celebrations led by President William Samoe Ruto. A statement from the police reveals that the incident occurred when a tea vendor accidentally spilled tea onto an open fire, triggering a panic situation. In stable conditions, authorities rushed the injured individuals to Kericho County Referral Hospital. They moved the deceased to the hospital’s morgue for identification and postmortem procedures. Kericho County Gains benefits from hosting Mashujaa Day Celebrations The venue of the event, Kericho Green Stadium, has undergone renovation. Expanding its capacity to accommodate 10,000 seats. The national government has actively paved approximately 10 kilometers of road, with an additional 2 kilometers in Kaptatet. These improvements were made in preparation for the four-day Universal Health Coverage exhibition and conference. READ ALSO: NTSA Calls on vehicle owners to Collect Their New Number Plates Furthermore, Kericho County Referral Hospital has been upgraded from a level 4 to a level 5 facility, enhancing healthcare service for residents. This upgrade includes the establishment of an oncology unit and Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Both were inaugurated by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua earlier last week. The county has also witnessed the expansion of Kerenga Airstrip to meet airport standards, with an additional allocation of 400 million by the national government to complete this project. Governor Eric Mutai of Kericho County expressed, “This airport will be elevated to the status of Wilson Airport. Opening up Kericho for tourism and business and serving the entire South Rifth region.” Additionally, the County Commissioner’s residence has been reconstructed to host the garden party following the celebration at the stadium.

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NTSA Calls on vehicle owners to Collect Their New Number Plates

Reading Time: 2 minutesThe National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) is encouraging drivers who have received SMS notifications about the availability of the new generation number plate to promptly visit their designated centers. In a statement released on Wednesday. NTSA emphasized that drivers should personally visit the specific centers they had identified during the application process. To expedite the issuance of the new generation number plates. The NTSA extended its operating hours, shifting from the previous 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Schedule to operate from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays. Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen directed the authority to address the blocking in printing Driving licenses, logbooks, and digital number plates within a two-week timeframe. Promoting this adjustment in operating hours. READ ALSO: Green Prince Son of The Sheik Hassan Yousef In May 2022, under the guidance of Fred Matiangi, former interior Cabinet Secretary. The new generation vehicle registration plates were introduced as part of efforts to combat forgery, swapping, and duplication. Main function of NTSA Below are the main functions of NTSA in Kenya;

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Green Prince Son of The Sheik Hassan Yousef

Reading Time: 2 minutesGreen Prince is a nickname for Mosab Hassan Yousef. A Palestinian who worked as an informant for the Israeli intelligence agency Shin Bet. Moasab Hassan is the son of Sheikh Hassan Yousef, the founding member of Hamas, a Palestinian political and military organization. Green Prince became a valuable asset for the Israeli intelligence agency by providing information on Hamas activities and preventing numerous terrorist attacks, His story is detailed in the book ” SON of HAMAS,” which he authored. The documentary film ” The Green Prince,” tells the story of his collaboration with Israeli intelligence. His action and decision to work with the Israeli government were controversial and led to significant personal and political consequences. The Green Prince has delivered several powerful speeches in the past. Particularly about his experiences and his perspective on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. One notable speech was his testimony at the United Nations in 2017. In this speech, he talked about his personal journey, the need for peace and reconciliation, and the importance of understanding the human side of the conflict. READ ALSO: Israel-Palestine Conflict’s Active Influence on the World Fuel Price Below is an excerpt of his UN Speech; ” I am not here to tell you that I have the answer, that I hold the key to peace in the Middle East. I am here to tell you that it’s time to start thinking differently. It’s time to look at the bigger picture, at the human side of the conflict. We need to acknowledge each other’s pain, fear, and hopes. We need to see the humanity in one another. This conflict is not just about politics or borders. It’s about people, families, and children on both sides who deserve a better future. I have seen firsthand the suffering and the consequences of this conflict. I have seen the pain in the eyes of Israeli mothers who have lost their sons and daughters in suicide bombings. I have also seen the pain in the eyes of Palestinian mothers who have lost their children to the conflict. We are all victims of this ongoing tragedy, and it’s time for it to end. We must move beyond hatred and revenge. We must seek reconciliation and understanding. We must work together to build a brighter and more peaceful future for the generation to come. It won’t be easy, but it’s possible if we have the courage to take the first steps towards peace.” The speech reflects Mosab Hassan Yousef’s call for empathy, understanding, and reconciliation in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

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Israel-Palestine Conflict’s Active Influence on the World Fuel Price

Reading Time: 2 minutesThe Israel-Palestine Conflict actively impacts fuel prices. Drawing global attention due to its potential to disrupt oil supply chains. This conflict, situated in the Middle East, a region rich in oil reserves and a vital energy hub can cause fluctuation in fuel prices on a global scale. The conflict’s influence on fuel prices underscores the intricate web of geopolitics, economics, and energy security that characterizes our interconnected world. As events continue to unfold, experts and policymakers closely monitor how these ongoing conflicts may actively send ripples throughout the global energy market. Tetu Member of Parliament Geoffrey Wandeto. Has stirred anxiety by highlighting the potential impact of the Israel-Palestine conflict on fuel prices. He emphasized the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist militant group Hamas. This could lead to additional surges in oil prices. Also, he voiced specific concerns, noting that fuel prices in Kenya have already experienced a surge. READ ALSO: While appearing on the Citizen TV show Wandeto clarified the conflict’s outcomes in the coming weeks. May exert substantial pressure on global oil production. He stressed that an extended Israel-Hamas conflict might push oil prices beyond Keny’s comfortable threshold. “We cannot downplay the new conflict between Israel and Palestine that has a significant impact on fuel prices,” he said. Furthermore, Wandeto proposed that boosting exports could ease Kenya’s dollar shortage. Which has been impacting the country due to various factors, including a decline in exports. He put forth the idea of actively exploring alternative settlement currencies for global trade. Also, the idea of promoting trading within East Africa using local currencies is a potential solution. “This whole dollar thing thing is not just a Kenya thing. I read that Japan, which has a very strong economy, has less than 20 percent or so devaluation of their currency. Almost all countries in the world are hurting because what is happening in America is that they are trying to cool their economy from inflation,” he said. He added, ” Now we are all victims of whatever goes on in America. When America coughs, the whole world catches a cold.” Wandeto also highlighted the increasing global demand for oil products, driven by the resurgence of the Chinese economy. The combination of this demand and concerns that the Israel-Hamas conflict could expand into the petroleum-producing Gulf region has resulted in rising oil prices.

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