Interior PS Dr. Omollo: Let’s Secure our Country through Vigilance

Dr. Raymond Omollo, Principal Secretary for the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, has emphasized Kenya’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding its citizens.

His insights offer a compelling narrative of proactive governance and strategic intervention.

Dr. Omollo in a recent media briefing flanked by the National Security Multi Agency Team. (Image: Files)

Combating Terrorism

At the heart of Kenya’s security agenda is the fight against terrorism and violent extremism.

Dr. Omollo has acknowledged the persistent threat posed by extremist groups, noting the strides made by security agencies in thwarting attacks.

However, he stressed the importance of general vigilance and community involvement.

A significant development in this fight is the adoption of the Prevention of Violent Extremism (PVE) Model Bill – which integrates prevention strategies into county governance and enhances national-county collaboration.

This approach addresses diverse forms of extremism, including inter-community conflicts and ideological radicalization.

Disaster Management and Climate Adaptation

In addition to security, Dr. Omollo has shown the spotlight on the proactive effort needed in disaster response, particularly in regions affected by flooding.

Recent engagements in Busia and Kisumu counties revealed the devastating impact of floods, which have displaced nearly 4,000 households and claimed 12 lives.

Relief efforts led by Dr. Omollo include distributing essential supplies and proposing infrastructure projects such as dams and dykes to mitigate future risks.

The PS actively advocates for sustainable resettlement and climate action which underscores the need for long-term solutions to disaster-prone regions.

Interior PS leads a team during assessment of damage caused by floods in Busia and Kisumu Counties. (Image: Facebook)

Approach to Security and Development

Dr. Omollo’s initiatives reflect a holistic approach to security, addressing not just immediate threats but also underlying vulnerabilities.

His call for community-driven solutions, whether in tackling extremism or managing climate risks, aligns with the broader government agenda for resilience and development.

By fostering unity and empowering communities, he envisions a safer, more cohesive nation.

My Two Cents on the Interview

Kenya’s internal security strategy under Dr. Omollo’s stewardship combines innovation, inclusivity, and determination.

Whether addressing terrorism or natural disasters, the government remains steadfast in its mission to protect lives and livelihoods.

As citizens, embracing these initiatives and fostering a culture of vigilance and cooperation will ensure lasting peace and stability.

Kisumu County: The Transformative Impact of the Lumumba Affordable Housing Project

The Kenyan government is committed to creating a better future for its citizens by focusing on initiatives that directly benefit the people.

A key pillar of this commitment is the Affordable Housing Program, a flagship project that promises not just to build houses but to improve the quality of life for many Kenyans.

Basic Scope of the Lumumba Affordable Housing Project

At the centre of this initiative is the Lumumba Affordable Housing Project, a transformative development in Kisumu Central Constituency, Kisumu County.

Situated on land previously occupied by dilapidated housing, this ambitious project will deliver 2,384 residential units.

Representing a significant investment in the community, the project has a total cost of KSh 5.75 billion and includes a mix of social housing, affordable housing, and market-rate housing to cater to various income levels.

The Lumumba project emphasizes more than just constructing buildings; it’s about creating a sustainable and inclusive urban environment.

By integrating residential units with essential amenities such as waste management systems, guard houses, play areas, and parking spaces, the project enhances the quality of life for its residents.

Its strategic location near schools, commercial centers, and healthcare facilities ensures a comprehensive living experience.

Ultimate Catalyst for Economic Growth

A critical aspect of the Lumumba project is its potential to drive economic growth. The construction phase is generating substantial employment opportunities, with an average of 92 laborers working on-site daily.

These jobs support the local economy and provide much-needed income for families, stimulating overall economic activity in the region.

The project also serves as a catalyst for sustainable infrastructure development. The creation of new housing units requires the establishment of roads, water supply systems, sewage systems, and electricity, contributing to the overall development of the community.

This comprehensive approach ensures that the project’s benefits extend beyond housing, fostering broader community development and sustainable

The Empowerment and Social Inclusivity angle

The Lumumba Affordable Housing Project exemplifies the government’s dedication to fostering social inclusivity and empowering marginalized groups.

By offering affordable housing options, the project allows low- and middle-income families to own or rent homes, providing stability and a sense of belonging.

This inclusivity fosters social cohesion, ensuring that residents feel connected and invested in their community.

Additionally, the project’s focus on social housing guarantees that vulnerable populations, including marginalized groups, have access to decent housing.

This approach aligns with the government’s broader vision of an inclusive society where all Kenyans, regardless of their socio-economic status, have access to safe, secure, and affordable housing.

Boost to the Quality of Life

Adequate housing is fundamental to the well-being of individuals and communities. The Lumumba project aims to provide well-designed, safe, and secure homes, significantly enhancing residents’ quality of life.

Children will benefit from stable environments that support learning and development, while families will enjoy spaces that promote safety, comfort, and well-being, creating a community where everyone can thrive.

The Tentative Overall Vision

The Affordable Housing Program, as demonstrated by the Lumumba project, showcases the government’s vision for a prosperous and inclusive Kenya.

It addresses the growing demand for housing and supports sustainable development, economic empowerment, and social inclusivity.

As similar projects are rolled out across the country, the government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens becomes increasingly evident.

In a Nutshell…..

By investing in affordable housing, the government is laying the foundation for a future where every Kenyan has the opportunity to live with dignity and hope.

The Lumumba Affordable Housing Project is a beacon of that future, paving the way towards a more equitable and prosperous Kenya.

Kisumu Court Allows Father to Remove Name from Child’s Birth Certificate

In Kisumu, a court has granted a father permission to remove his name from his ‘9-year-old son’s’ birth certificate following DNA tests that proved he was not the biological father.

The case gained attention after it was covered by NTV, highlighting the father’s decision to seek legal action based on his suspicions, which were later confirmed by the DNA tests.

The judge instructed the Births and Deaths Registration Office in Kisumu to revise the child’s birth certificate, expunging the father’s name.

“It is evident that the information recorded on the birth certificate dated April 27, 2023, identifying F.O.A. as the father of the child, J.M.O., is false and misleading,” stated the judge.

“The application dated November 16, 2023, is granted to the extent that F.O.A.’s name shall be removed from Birth Certificate Number xxx as the father of the child J.M.O.,” the judge added.

F.O.A. acknowledged that he had allowed his name to be used for registering the child under Section 12 of the Births and Deaths Registration Act. However, he contested that he had adopted the child, asserting that a private DNA test revealed otherwise. Subsequently, a court-ordered test conducted by a government chemist in Kisumu corroborated that he was not the child’s biological father.

The man explained that he had been in a romantic relationship with the child’s mother in 2014, during which she became pregnant. Initially believing he was the father, he supported the mother until doubts arose about the child’s paternity, leading him to seek legal resolution.

Mozzart arrives at Kombewa Sub-County Hospital in Kisumu with a medical equipment donation worth over Ksh 3 Million

Leading gaming company Mozzart continued with its help to Kenya’s health system by donating medical equipment worth Ksh 3 Million to the Kombewa County Hospital in Kisumu on Friday 5 March.

The donated equipment included hospital beds, bed side lockers, maternity delivery beds, patient monitors, oxygen concentrators, oxygen flow meters, oxygen storage capacitors, ophthalmoscopes, infant incubators amongst others.

Kisumu County Governor Hon Anyang’ Nyong’o, who officially received the equipment, reserved special praises for Mozzart.

“Maternal and pediatric health sections in this facility will now greatly improve their service delivery and we are very grateful to Mozzart for this noble gesture.” – Kisumu County Governor Hon. Anyang’ Nyong’o

“We are very excited to receive this donation. Maternal and pediatric health sections in this facility will now greatly improve their service delivery and we are very grateful to Mozzart for this noble gesture,” he said,

“On behalf of Kisumu County, I want to assure Mozzart that the equipment will be put to good use to improve healthcare in Kombewa and Kisumu County at large. Special gratitude goes to Mozzart led by the Country Manager Sasa Krneta,” he added.

Mozzart Country Manager Sasa Krneta said the organization would continue supporting community projects around the country.

“We are very grateful for the warm reception we have received in this great county of Kisumu. We are also delighted to bring this donation which we hope will change the lives of people in the Kombewa community for the better,” he said,

“We have spent over Ksh 50 million since November in community projects that include our “100 WELLS FOR OUR COMMUNITIES” water project as well as our healthcare projects. We are an organization that is human-centered and therefore we are always eager to support community projects,” he added.

Since November 2020, 19 different hospitals have received essential medical equipment courtesy of Mozzart. The facilities include Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital, Pumwani Maternity Hospital, Ngara Health Centre, Chemolingot Sub County Hospital, Mathare North Health Centre, Kahawa West Health Centre, Kayole 1 Health Centre, Kayole 2 Sub County Hospital.

Others include Nyamache Sub-County Referral Hospital, Rachuonyo County Hospital, Dandora 1 Health Center, Mukuru Health Center, Dandora 2 Health Center, Kakamega Referral Hospital, Waithaka Health Center, Vihiga County Referral Hospital, Yala Sub County Hospital, Molo Sub County Hospital and now the Kombewa Sub County Hospital.

More hospitals around the country are lined up to benefit in coming weeks.