FAHAMU NETWORK

The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) is seeking to increase its conservation fees in a bid to strengthen its operations, which have become increasingly difficult to sustain due to limited revenue streams falling short of its strategic targets. The service, which is conducting public participation exercises in its eight regions, seeks to raise its fees by at least 50% in the exercise that was last done in 2007 and has since become untenable owing to the rising cost of living. “We require more funds to effectively conserve the parks and in turn make them productive and add to the country’s economic growth. We need to improve our facilities to meet the current standards for tourism and hospitality,” said the Western Conservation Officer Josphat Erupe. He spoke at the Kitale National Polytechnic, where the team was engaging residents from Trans Nzoia County to give their views on the proposals. The region hosts the Saiwa Swamp National Park and Mt. Elgon National Park. Mr. Erupe sa...

The High Court in Kitale will on September 18 make a critical ruling on whether a constitutional petition challenging the monogamous framework of Christian marriages in Kenya warrants hearing by a panel of three judges. The petition was filed by Bonface Ndura, who, through his lawyer Wanyama Mutaki, is seeking the empanelment of a multi-judge bench to deliberate on what he describes as a matter of profound legal and public significance. Ndura argues that the case meets the threshold for such a bench as outlined in Article 165(4) of the Constitution, citing the complexity of the legal issues involved, the far-reaching constitutional implications, and the strong public interest component. He maintains that a single judge should not determine such weighty questions, which touch on religious freedom, equality, and the right to family life. Central to the petition is a challenge to provisions of the Marriage Act and Penal Code, particularly Section 171, which criminalizes bigamy...

Trans Nzoia County has been flagged as a hotspot for increasing cases of hooliganism, alcohol, and drug abuse in the country, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has revealed. Speaking during a Jukwaa la Usalama forum in the county, Murkomen painted a worrying picture of a region grappling with rising insecurity and criminal behaviour fueled by compromised law enforcement officers and politically linked gangs. "Trans Nzoia’s proximity to Uganda has made it a conduit for smuggling of alcohol and hard drugs. The influx of adulterated liquor and narcotics from across the border is alarming," said Murkomen. The Interior CS accused a section of police officers and National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO) of turning a blind eye to illicit activities in exchange for bribes, contributing significantly to the growing menace. Murkomen further linked the drug and alcohol problem to the emergence of organized criminal gangs, some of which he claimed are fi...

Kwanza Member of Parliament Ferdinand Wanyonyi has pledged his support for infrastructure development at St. Francis of Assisi Kolongolo Girls Secondary School. Wanyonyi said Sh 7 million from the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) will go towards the completion of a storey tuition block, expected to ease congestion and improve the learning environment for the growing student population. The MP also pledged to support the construction of a multipurpose hall in response to a request by the school principal, Mrs. Hellen Wanyonyi.  He revealed that plans are already underway, with the advertisement for the project expected soon to pave the way for its implementation. “I have listened to the needs of the school, and I am committed to ensuring that our girls learn in a conducive environment,” said Wanyonyi said during the school's Annual General Meeting (AGM). The occasion also saw recognition of top performers in the 2024 KCSE examinati...

A cross-section of political leaders in Trans Nzoia have welcomed the reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), terming it a crucial step in addressing the political uncertainty surrounding the 2027 General Elections. Speaking during the burial of Mr. Richard Sandui at Kipsagam in Trans Nzoia West Sub-county, Kinyoro Ward MCA Andrew Kipekee said the move restores public confidence in Kenya’s electoral process and discredits those seeking to exploit the previous vacuum for personal or political gain. "Those who have been banking on the uncertainty to plot unlawful means of choosing leaders have no place. Those who feel they want change in terms of leadership should now shift their focus from violence to registering as voters,"Kipekee said.  Former Trans Nzoia County Executive Committee Member John Mengwa also applauded the development, describing the swearing-in of the new commissioners as timely and significant in laying the fou...

A section of elders from the Sabaot community has called on government investigative agencies to take action against former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over remarks they say are polarizing the country and threatening national unity. Speaking during a press briefing in Kitale, the elders accused Gachagua of propagating inflammatory and ethnically charged rhetoric that could destabilize the nation as the country heads toward the 2027 general elections. “Gachagua has to be tamed since the ethnic narrative he is advancing can evoke tensions amongst communities ahead of the 2027 general elections,” said Reverend Peter Chemaswet. The elders accused the former deputy president of riding on the platform of incitement for political mileage without considering the long-term implications on national cohesion. “We have made strides as a country in terms of embracing issue-based politics as opposed to whipping tribal emotions,” noted Mr. Makuta Kiboi. In addition to condemning Gac...

Cherang’any parliamentary aspirant John Njunguna has urged the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) to summon National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula over remarks he made during an economic empowerment event in the region. Njunguna accused Wetang'ula of making comments that could stoke ethnic divisions, particularly in the cosmopolitan Trans Nzoia County, which is home to diverse communities. The controversy stems from Wetang'ula’s recent address, during which he questioned members of the Kalenjin community for allegedly failing to defend President William Ruto against criticism from political opponents. Njunguna described the statement as divisive, warning that it could fuel tensions and harm relations among communities in the region. “The National Cohesion and Integration Commission must take immediate action against Wetang'ula, as his sentiments could fuel ethnic animosity in Trans Nzoia,” he said. He added: “His remarks risk pitting one...

Saboti Member of Parliament, Caleb Amisi, has reaffirmed his dedication to accelerating development in his constituency, focusing on key areas such as education, infrastructure, electrification, and student support. Speaking at the burial of the late Shadrach Sandwi in Kipsagam, Amisi emphasized the importance of upgrading public schools to enhance learning conditions and provide equal access to quality education for all students. “The children of Kipsagam and surrounding areas deserve a conducive learning environment. Completing this school project is not just a priority, it is a promise,” Amisi stated. The MP also announced plans to repair and upgrade roads within the constituency to bitumen standards.  He stressed that a robust road network is critical for the economic development of Saboti, as well as for improving access to essential services. “Better roads mean easier access to schools, hospitals, markets, and other services. It’s about connecting people to opport...

Leaders allied with President William Ruto have condemned what they termed the polarization of the youth by opposition leaders in an effort to destabilize the government. They accused the opposition leaders of relying on unlawful means to push the country toward anarchy and chaos in order to serve their political interests, disguised as liberties. Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki took a swipe at opposition leaders who had previously held senior government roles, challenging them to account for their performance before criticizing the current administration. “While some leaders in the opposition are inviting youth into violence, we in government are offering real solutions. We’ve launched direct employment programs and created an environment for youth empowerment,” said Kindiki. The leaders spoke at an economic empowerment event at Kipkeikei High School in Cherangany, hosted by Trans Nzoia Woman Representative Lilian Siyoi. He emphasized that the Kenya Kwanza administr...

A section of political and business leaders in Trans Nzoia County has urged President William Ruto to refrain from responding with anger to the ongoing protests by the youth, popularly referred to as Gen Z, over concerns about his administration’s governance. Hospital Ward Member of the County Assembly (MCA), Eric Wafula, criticized the President’s combative tone, warning that such a reaction—perceived as intimidation—undermines the presidency as a symbol of national unity. “Mr. President, you should be the last person to get angry. Instead, focus on addressing the genuine concerns raised by the youth,” Wafula said. He appealed to the Head of State to initiate a national dialogue forum where young people can freely express the governance issues they want addressed. “I believe no one wants this country to descend into chaos. We all desire a peaceful and prosperous nation. Let’s give dialogue a chance,” he added. Wafula also rejected calls to overthrow the government, emphasi...

Twelve Ugandan nationals suspected of involvement in acts of cannibalism were arraigned today before the Chief Magistrate’s Court in Kitale. The group, aged between 10 and 50 years, was arrested following an intensive weeks-long investigation into multiple reports of missing persons in the area. Appearing before Chief Magistrate Samuel Mokua, the suspects did not enter pleas as the lead investigating officer Sgt Edward Ndemo requested an additional 30 days to complete the inquiry. Chief Magistrate Samuel Mokua directed that six of the suspects identified as minors undergo medical age assessments in two days while the other six be remanded for two weeks . “I am directing that the minors be detained at Kitale Police Station for two days to undergo medical evaluation to determine their ages, while the remaining six are to be remanded for two weeks,” Magistrate Mokua ruled. The suspects are Vincent Masika, Monica Cheptoo, Ruth Nalinda, Noel Khakwana, Stephen Khamnoo, Wilson Poi...

The highly anticipated showdown between Kakamega High School and Musingu Boys High School in the Kakamega County Secondary School Football Championship has been cancelled after the former declined to field a team. The rematch, scheduled for July 6, 2025, was to determine the second and third positions following a controversial ruling by the county education office.  However, Kakamega High, through Head Coach Samuel Oindo, insisted they had not received formal communication and were awaiting a decision from the Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) Supreme Jury regarding their appeal. “We contested the ruling based on Article 14(e) of the KSSSA Constitution concerning player eligibility. We appealed, and until the Supreme Jury rules, we won’t play,” Oindo stated. The controversy follows a Ministry of Education circular declaring that both schools fielded ineligible players. Consequently, Musingu was stripped of their county title, Kakamega demoted from third...

Saboti Member of Parliament Caleb Amisi has stated that President William Ruto’s chances of failing to secure a second term in office are increasingly becoming a reality. Amisi, who spoke at a rally in Kitale alongside opposition leaders, criticized the Kenya Kwanza administration for failing to fulfill its promises to the Kenyan people. The legislator pointed to the growing unpopularity of President Ruto’s government as a key factor that could derail any hopes of a successful re-election bid. “It’s clear now that the one-term movement is gaining momentum across the country,” said Amisi, a vocal critic of the ruling government. He added : “Ruto had promised Kenyans a lot, but those promises remain unfulfilled, and his credibility has taken a hit. His goose is cooked,” he said, to cheers from the gathered crowd. The opposition leaders also warned the government against using police force to intimidate youths during the Saba Saba rallies on Monday. The leaders, who wrapped up...

Saboti Member of Parliament Caleb Amisi has commissioned four new classrooms at the GK Remand Prison Primary School in Tuwan Ward, marking a significant milestone in efforts to improve education infrastructure in the constituency. Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Amisi emphasized that quality learning spaces are vital for nurturing young minds and improving academic performance. “Education remains the cornerstone of inclusive growth. By investing in school infrastructure, we are not only empowering learners but also strengthening the foundation for a better future,” Amisi stated. The new classrooms are expected to ease congestion and create a more conducive environment for learners, including children of prison staff and members of the surrounding community. The project is part of the MP's broader initiative to boost education standards and promote equitable development across Saboti Constituency. “This is more than just a construction project; it reflects ou...

The National Assembly has been urged to amend existing laws to compel state officers facing criminal charges to step aside from their positions until their cases are fully concluded in court. The CEO of the Socio-Economic Development and Rights Alliance, Juma Kiboi, emphasized that this reform should apply to all public officers — from the national government to county administrations — without exception. “The law must be clear and consistent. State officers should not be exempt from stepping aside when facing charges, just as junior officers would be required to do. This would ensure a fair process and reduce potential conflicts of interest during investigations,” Kiboi remarked. He also stressed that the current legal environment, which allows state officers to remain in office while facing serious charges, is not conducive to effective investigations. According to Kiboi, this situation breeds an unhealthy atmosphere where the pursuit of justice is often compromised, part...

St. Joseph's Boys Kitale successfully retained their Trans Nzoia County Soccer Championship crown after edging out Friends School Bwake Boys 1-0 in a thrilling final played at AIC Chebisas High School in Uasin Gishu County on Saturday. The Brown Saints, under the guidance of Chief Principal Cosmas Nabungolo, displayed resilience and tactical brilliance, with a decisive second-half goal securing their victory. St. Joseph's Boys, also known as JOBO, stormed into the final after a remarkable 5-0 thrashing of St. Anthony Boys (Solidarity Boys) in the semi-finals. The victory was powered by a brilliant hat-trick from star player Instin Simiyu, with additional goals from Jok Oruch and Juba Lugendo. In the final, both teams put up a spirited performance, with the match remaining tightly contested. It was Instin Simiyu’s goal that proved decisive, securing a 1-0 victory for St. Joseph’s Boys. Simiyu's outstanding performance throughout the tournament further...