Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I am delighted that you all found time to personally participate in this conference on the Horn of Africa crisis.
On behalf of the Government and the people of Kenya, I warmly welcome you all to our country and to this important Conference.
I also wish to express my sincere gratitude to the international community for supporting this Conference. My special thanks to the United Nations for graciously hosting us in this beautiful complex.
Allow me to also appreciate the World Bank for the financial assistance extended for this Conference, as well those friendly Governments and development partners who played an important role in the organization of this Conference. Indeed, the impressive turn out by world leaders and other dignitaries signifies the international community’s commitment towards helping us resolve the crisis in the Horn of Africa.
This Summit and Conference has been convened against the background of the ongoing drought, which has led to famine and an increased refugee influx that has extended across most of the countries in the Horn of Africa region. You will all appreciate that, apart from the more familiar episodes of the refugee influx and uncontrolled immigration, this Summit has also been called to devote critical attention to the long-term solutions to this problem which has such devastating consequences to the region.
I am sure it is a matter of great concern to all of us that over the last decade, the Horn of Africa has frequently been affected by severe drought. Equally critical, particularly in the recent past, are the effects of Climate Change which pose serious social, economic and environmental challenges, both at the local and global levels.
The recurrence of extreme weather and climatic events in the region, including the on-going drought, is progressively increasing in intensity and frequency on account of
climate change. As a result, a large number of communities have been displaced with grave consequences for their traditional means of livelihood. This has led to increased conflicts for water and other natural resources between communities living within and across national borders. Worse still, climate change has had adverse effects on the key economic drivers, including water resources, agriculture, energy and transport.
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Over the last decade or so, a large number of refugees, mainly from Somalia, have continued to cross borders into Kenya and Ethiopia seeking to free themselves from the ravages of hunger and conflict. In Somalia, the situation is aggravated by the country’s ongoing state of violence and general instability. Currently, the influx of refugees into Kenya has risen sharply over the last couple of months, reaching an all time high of over 1,500 per day. The result has been that the modest refugee camp that was built at Dadaab in Northern Kenya over two decades ago to handle about 40,000 people is now home to more than 500,000 Somali citizens, many of whom are fleeing on account of the drought.
This continuous inflow of refugees undermines national and regional security arrangements. With the large number of people arriving at the camps on a daily basis, it has become more difficult to control the smuggling of small arms and light weapons into neighbouring countries. It has also been a challenge to effectively deal with cross-border crimes, illicit trade and other activities, including the entry of undesirable elements.
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
My Government has been working closely with the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development the U.N. system and the World Bank to think through the strategies and possible solutions that we will be discussing today. Let me note, however, that any permanent solutions to the Horn of Africa crisis must be anchored in our respective countries through concrete programmes and action plans with clear timelines to ensure expeditious implementation.
We in the East African Community, an important trading bloc within the region have taken bold steps to create a framework and structures to address issues of food security. The Community has developed an E.A.C. Climate Change Policy, Food Security Action Plan and a Regional Strategy on Peace and Security. I urge my fellow colleagues from EAC partner states to embark on full implementation and coordination of these instruments with a view to mitigating the effects of climate change and improving food security. My Government has embarked on this process, and will fully support any regional initiatives aimed at dealing with drought and its consequences in the region.
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
While I note that the impact of drought in Somalia, Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Eritrea is particularly grave, I believe the situation in Somalia calls for special attention as the country has approximately 4 million people in need of emergency humanitarian assistance. This situation is aggravated by the fact that Somalia remains in the throes of conflict.
The Government of Kenya considers it extremely critical that we collectively find a permanent and sustainable solution to the conflict in Somalia which has persisted for over two decades. In particular, we must devote our attention to a long-term solution for Somalia if we are to succeed in resolving the crisis within the Horn of Africa.
Your Excellencies,
It is gratifying to note that the Transitional Federal Government in Somalia is working with all the countries in the region, as well as the international community, to re-establish a working government and to ensure stability and nationhood. It is my Government’s sincere belief that a firm commitment will come out of this Summit towards supporting the cause of peace and stability in Somalia.
Finally, Excellencies, let me note that resource mobilization efforts to mitigate the effects of the on-going drought situation have, to a large extent, focused on short term emergency needs. It is my Government’s belief that we must now develop a combined regional approach, anchored on comprehensive country programmes, and supported by the international community. Only then can we achieve decisive and long term solutions to the Horn of Africa crisis. I therefore call upon each one of you gathered here to devote yourselves to the task of finding long term solutions to the continental crisis.
Thank you and God bless you all.
Source:State House Kenya
Saturday, September 10, 2011
NAIROBI: SPEECH BY HIS EXCELLENCY HON. MWAI KIBAKI, C.G.H., M.P., PRESIDENT AND COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF OF THE DEFENCE FORCES OF THE REPUBLIC OF KENYA DURING THE INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON DROUGHT SITUATION IN THE HORN OF AFRICA, UNITED NATIONS HEADQUARTERS, GIGIRI, 9TH SEPTEMBER, 2011
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I am delighted that you all found time to personally participate in this conference on the Horn of Africa crisis.
On behalf of the Government and the people of Kenya, I warmly welcome you all to our country and to this important Conference.
I also wish to express my sincere gratitude to the international community for supporting this Conference. My special thanks to the United Nations for graciously hosting us in this beautiful complex.
Allow me to also appreciate the World Bank for the financial assistance extended for this Conference, as well those friendly Governments and development partners who played an important role in the organization of this Conference. Indeed, the impressive turn out by world leaders and other dignitaries signifies the international community’s commitment towards helping us resolve the crisis in the Horn of Africa.
This Summit and Conference has been convened against the background of the ongoing drought, which has led to famine and an increased refugee influx that has extended across most of the countries in the Horn of Africa region. You will all appreciate that, apart from the more familiar episodes of the refugee influx and uncontrolled immigration, this Summit has also been called to devote critical attention to the long-term solutions to this problem which has such devastating consequences to the region.
I am sure it is a matter of great concern to all of us that over the last decade, the Horn of Africa has frequently been affected by severe drought. Equally critical, particularly in the recent past, are the effects of Climate Change which pose serious social, economic and environmental challenges, both at the local and global levels.
The recurrence of extreme weather and climatic events in the region, including the on-going drought, is progressively increasing in intensity and frequency on account of
climate change. As a result, a large number of communities have been displaced with grave consequences for their traditional means of livelihood. This has led to increased conflicts for water and other natural resources between communities living within and across national borders. Worse still, climate change has had adverse effects on the key economic drivers, including water resources, agriculture, energy and transport.
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Over the last decade or so, a large number of refugees, mainly from Somalia, have continued to cross borders into Kenya and Ethiopia seeking to free themselves from the ravages of hunger and conflict. In Somalia, the situation is aggravated by the country’s ongoing state of violence and general instability. Currently, the influx of refugees into Kenya has risen sharply over the last couple of months, reaching an all time high of over 1,500 per day. The result has been that the modest refugee camp that was built at Dadaab in Northern Kenya over two decades ago to handle about 40,000 people is now home to more than 500,000 Somali citizens, many of whom are fleeing on account of the drought.
This continuous inflow of refugees undermines national and regional security arrangements. With the large number of people arriving at the camps on a daily basis, it has become more difficult to control the smuggling of small arms and light weapons into neighbouring countries. It has also been a challenge to effectively deal with cross-border crimes, illicit trade and other activities, including the entry of undesirable elements.
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
My Government has been working closely with the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development the U.N. system and the World Bank to think through the strategies and possible solutions that we will be discussing today. Let me note, however, that any permanent solutions to the Horn of Africa crisis must be anchored in our respective countries through concrete programmes and action plans with clear timelines to ensure expeditious implementation.
We in the East African Community, an important trading bloc within the region have taken bold steps to create a framework and structures to address issues of food security. The Community has developed an E.A.C. Climate Change Policy, Food Security Action Plan and a Regional Strategy on Peace and Security. I urge my fellow colleagues from EAC partner states to embark on full implementation and coordination of these instruments with a view to mitigating the effects of climate change and improving food security. My Government has embarked on this process, and will fully support any regional initiatives aimed at dealing with drought and its consequences in the region.
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
While I note that the impact of drought in Somalia, Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Eritrea is particularly grave, I believe the situation in Somalia calls for special attention as the country has approximately 4 million people in need of emergency humanitarian assistance. This situation is aggravated by the fact that Somalia remains in the throes of conflict.
The Government of Kenya considers it extremely critical that we collectively find a permanent and sustainable solution to the conflict in Somalia which has persisted for over two decades. In particular, we must devote our attention to a long-term solution for Somalia if we are to succeed in resolving the crisis within the Horn of Africa.
Your Excellencies,
It is gratifying to note that the Transitional Federal Government in Somalia is working with all the countries in the region, as well as the international community, to re-establish a working government and to ensure stability and nationhood. It is my Government’s sincere belief that a firm commitment will come out of this Summit towards supporting the cause of peace and stability in Somalia.
Finally, Excellencies, let me note that resource mobilization efforts to mitigate the effects of the on-going drought situation have, to a large extent, focused on short term emergency needs. It is my Government’s belief that we must now develop a combined regional approach, anchored on comprehensive country programmes, and supported by the international community. Only then can we achieve decisive and long term solutions to the Horn of Africa crisis. I therefore call upon each one of you gathered here to devote yourselves to the task of finding long term solutions to the continental crisis.
Thank you and God bless you all.
Source: State House Kenya
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I am delighted that you all found time to personally participate in this conference on the Horn of Africa crisis.
On behalf of the Government and the people of Kenya, I warmly welcome you all to our country and to this important Conference.
I also wish to express my sincere gratitude to the international community for supporting this Conference. My special thanks to the United Nations for graciously hosting us in this beautiful complex.
Allow me to also appreciate the World Bank for the financial assistance extended for this Conference, as well those friendly Governments and development partners who played an important role in the organization of this Conference. Indeed, the impressive turn out by world leaders and other dignitaries signifies the international community’s commitment towards helping us resolve the crisis in the Horn of Africa.
This Summit and Conference has been convened against the background of the ongoing drought, which has led to famine and an increased refugee influx that has extended across most of the countries in the Horn of Africa region. You will all appreciate that, apart from the more familiar episodes of the refugee influx and uncontrolled immigration, this Summit has also been called to devote critical attention to the long-term solutions to this problem which has such devastating consequences to the region.
I am sure it is a matter of great concern to all of us that over the last decade, the Horn of Africa has frequently been affected by severe drought. Equally critical, particularly in the recent past, are the effects of Climate Change which pose serious social, economic and environmental challenges, both at the local and global levels.
The recurrence of extreme weather and climatic events in the region, including the on-going drought, is progressively increasing in intensity and frequency on account of
climate change. As a result, a large number of communities have been displaced with grave consequences for their traditional means of livelihood. This has led to increased conflicts for water and other natural resources between communities living within and across national borders. Worse still, climate change has had adverse effects on the key economic drivers, including water resources, agriculture, energy and transport.
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Over the last decade or so, a large number of refugees, mainly from Somalia, have continued to cross borders into Kenya and Ethiopia seeking to free themselves from the ravages of hunger and conflict. In Somalia, the situation is aggravated by the country’s ongoing state of violence and general instability. Currently, the influx of refugees into Kenya has risen sharply over the last couple of months, reaching an all time high of over 1,500 per day. The result has been that the modest refugee camp that was built at Dadaab in Northern Kenya over two decades ago to handle about 40,000 people is now home to more than 500,000 Somali citizens, many of whom are fleeing on account of the drought.
This continuous inflow of refugees undermines national and regional security arrangements. With the large number of people arriving at the camps on a daily basis, it has become more difficult to control the smuggling of small arms and light weapons into neighbouring countries. It has also been a challenge to effectively deal with cross-border crimes, illicit trade and other activities, including the entry of undesirable elements.
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
My Government has been working closely with the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development the U.N. system and the World Bank to think through the strategies and possible solutions that we will be discussing today. Let me note, however, that any permanent solutions to the Horn of Africa crisis must be anchored in our respective countries through concrete programmes and action plans with clear timelines to ensure expeditious implementation.
We in the East African Community, an important trading bloc within the region have taken bold steps to create a framework and structures to address issues of food security. The Community has developed an E.A.C. Climate Change Policy, Food Security Action Plan and a Regional Strategy on Peace and Security. I urge my fellow colleagues from EAC partner states to embark on full implementation and coordination of these instruments with a view to mitigating the effects of climate change and improving food security. My Government has embarked on this process, and will fully support any regional initiatives aimed at dealing with drought and its consequences in the region.
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
While I note that the impact of drought in Somalia, Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Eritrea is particularly grave, I believe the situation in Somalia calls for special attention as the country has approximately 4 million people in need of emergency humanitarian assistance. This situation is aggravated by the fact that Somalia remains in the throes of conflict.
The Government of Kenya considers it extremely critical that we collectively find a permanent and sustainable solution to the conflict in Somalia which has persisted for over two decades. In particular, we must devote our attention to a long-term solution for Somalia if we are to succeed in resolving the crisis within the Horn of Africa.
Your Excellencies,
It is gratifying to note that the Transitional Federal Government in Somalia is working with all the countries in the region, as well as the international community, to re-establish a working government and to ensure stability and nationhood. It is my Government’s sincere belief that a firm commitment will come out of this Summit towards supporting the cause of peace and stability in Somalia.
Finally, Excellencies, let me note that resource mobilization efforts to mitigate the effects of the on-going drought situation have, to a large extent, focused on short term emergency needs. It is my Government’s belief that we must now develop a combined regional approach, anchored on comprehensive country programmes, and supported by the international community. Only then can we achieve decisive and long term solutions to the Horn of Africa crisis. I therefore call upon each one of you gathered here to devote yourselves to the task of finding long term solutions to the continental crisis.
Thank you and God bless you all.
Source: State House Kenya
NAIROBI: MESSAGE OF CONDOLENCE TO THE GOVERNMENT AND PEOPLE OF ZANZIBAR:
At a time we are struggling to come together as an economic unit and a political federation, a tragedy in any of our countries in the East African Community takes the whole region several steps backwards. One tragedy in any of our regional countries is therefore a tragedy to us all.
It is with this in mind that I extend deep felt condolences to the people of Zanzibar and, by extension, the United Republic of Tanzania following the boat tragedy that has left hundreds dead and hundreds of others injured in the island of Zanzibar.
I thank the Zanzibar and Tanzania authorities in general for the response that has significantly ensured that the injured are attended to and families are able to get the information about their loved ones.
Zanzibar is a significant segment of our EAC economy particularly in terms of tourism. I appeal to the region and the international community to stand in solidarity with the people here in helping ease the pain and ensuring quick recovery from the tragedy. We must not allow the pain linger too long and cause too much pain to our tourism economy.
Our prayers go to those who have lost loved ones and the injured and those nursing them.
RAILA A. ODINGA;
10.09.2011
It is with this in mind that I extend deep felt condolences to the people of Zanzibar and, by extension, the United Republic of Tanzania following the boat tragedy that has left hundreds dead and hundreds of others injured in the island of Zanzibar.
I thank the Zanzibar and Tanzania authorities in general for the response that has significantly ensured that the injured are attended to and families are able to get the information about their loved ones.
Zanzibar is a significant segment of our EAC economy particularly in terms of tourism. I appeal to the region and the international community to stand in solidarity with the people here in helping ease the pain and ensuring quick recovery from the tragedy. We must not allow the pain linger too long and cause too much pain to our tourism economy.
Our prayers go to those who have lost loved ones and the injured and those nursing them.
RAILA A. ODINGA;
10.09.2011
Friday, September 9, 2011
NAIROBI: PRIME MINISTER IN TRANSMARA AND KISII
Prime Minister Raila Odinga tours Transmara and Kisii beginning tomorrow, 10th September, 2011.
The PM will address a Leaders' meeting at the Lolgorian Catholic church at 10 am tomorrow then address a rally at the Kilgoris D.E.B Primary School grounds and in Lolgorian later in the afternoon.
On Sunday, September 11, the PM will attend a church service in Kitutu Masaba then hold a leaders' meeting in Kisii town.
DENNIS ONYANGO.
The PM will address a Leaders' meeting at the Lolgorian Catholic church at 10 am tomorrow then address a rally at the Kilgoris D.E.B Primary School grounds and in Lolgorian later in the afternoon.
On Sunday, September 11, the PM will attend a church service in Kitutu Masaba then hold a leaders' meeting in Kisii town.
DENNIS ONYANGO.
NAIROBI: MEDIA ADVISORY: ATTENTION NEWS/ BUSINESS EDITOR
ADOPTION OF INTEGRATION REPORT
Planning, National Development and Vision 2030 Minister Hon. Wycliffe Oparanya will today, officially close the Fifth Conference of African Ministers in Charge of Integration (COMAI V) at the Intercontinental hotel.
The Ministers will also adopt the report on integration and sovereignty following their lengthy discussions on the subject.
WHAT: Closing of the COMAIV Conference and adoption of report.
WHERE: Intercontinental hotel, Nairobi.
WHEN: Friday, September 09, 2011.
TIME: 3.00 pm
Kindly provide coverage.
Regards,
Dave Jones Buchere
PRO Ministry of State for Planning, National Development and Vision 2030
Planning, National Development and Vision 2030 Minister Hon. Wycliffe Oparanya will today, officially close the Fifth Conference of African Ministers in Charge of Integration (COMAI V) at the Intercontinental hotel.
The Ministers will also adopt the report on integration and sovereignty following their lengthy discussions on the subject.
WHAT: Closing of the COMAIV Conference and adoption of report.
WHERE: Intercontinental hotel, Nairobi.
WHEN: Friday, September 09, 2011.
TIME: 3.00 pm
Kindly provide coverage.
Regards,
Dave Jones Buchere
PRO Ministry of State for Planning, National Development and Vision 2030
Thursday, September 8, 2011
NAIROBI: Immobilize all unregistered phone numbers, President Kibaki orders
President Mwai Kibaki has directed the Ministry of Information and Communications to immobilize all unregistered phone numbers so as to protect Kenyans from criminals.
President Kibaki said the action would wipe out all unregistered mobile lines being used to perpetrate criminal activities and thus safeguard the lives of wananchi from high-tech crimes.
The President was speaking today when he presided over the official opening of the Telkom Kenya-Orange 3G Network at the Laico Regency Hotel.
During the same occasion President Kibaki castigated increased vandalism of vital installations in the telecommunication sector which he termed a major setback to vital sector saying it was an impediment to the realization of the country’s development goals
He was, however, optimistic that recently enacted laws would safeguard telecommunications and electricity infrastructures installed for the benefit of both the consumer and service providers.
The Head of State emphasized that the government had enacted laws that provided for harsher sentences to eradicate vandalism of vital telecommunication and electric installations.
In order to develop Kenya into a knowledge driven economy, President Kibaki directed the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology to team up with other line ministries to convert at least two public universities into institutes of technology.
He said this was important in order to create requisite capacity to move the country to greater heights.
President Kibaki said, “In the last few years my government in partnership with the private sector has realized major milestones towards the achievement of a Knowledge Based economy.”
The Head of State stressed that the institutes would focus on research in science and technology and strive to produce competent graduates who can sustain the economy in the future
He remarked, “We must all work together to develop home grown capacity in these new technologies. In this regard, I urge mobile operators to work with the Government and the Universities to realize the human capacity we need for our twenty thirty vision on technology. It is anticipated that the technology we are launching today, will make it easier for the said institutions of learning to access the required data and information at any location any time.”
During the occasion, he affirmed that the government was also promoting knowledge based industries covering both high and medium technology industries
These include Business Process Outsourcing, Computer/Electronic hardware manufacturing, Software Development, Information and Broadcasting,Filmingand Digital content development, Communication and financial services among others.
“The aim is to increase our service sector contribution to GDP to more than 30 per cent by the year twenty thirty. The growth of these sub-sectors holds much promise for job creation for our youthful population that has proved extremely competent in the area of ICT,” President Kibaki remarked.
Commending Telkom Kenya for positioning themselves as major data services player in the country, President Kibaki asserted that the government recognized the important role that access to knowledge, information and communication had in the development of any country.
Said the President, “Telkom Kenya becomes the second mobile service provider to launch its 3G network in the country. We congratulate Telkom Kenya for making such a bold stride in the ever dynamic field of Information, Communications Technology.”
The Head of State noted, “Last July, I launched the Open Data Portal to further give the on-going reforms the necessary impetus to make core Government development data and information available to the general public. Mobile telephony will indeed enhance access to this Open Data Portal.”
During the occasion he expressed delight at the increased number of internet subscribers in Kenya rising from 3 million users in 2009 to over 11 million subscribers to date of whom 64 per cent use their mobile phones.
Terming the launch of the fast and reliable network by the company timely so as to serve the many users efficiently, the President said the new technology would boost internet penetration as well lay a firm basis for employment creation.
SOURCE: STATE HOUSE KENYA
President Kibaki said the action would wipe out all unregistered mobile lines being used to perpetrate criminal activities and thus safeguard the lives of wananchi from high-tech crimes.
The President was speaking today when he presided over the official opening of the Telkom Kenya-Orange 3G Network at the Laico Regency Hotel.
During the same occasion President Kibaki castigated increased vandalism of vital installations in the telecommunication sector which he termed a major setback to vital sector saying it was an impediment to the realization of the country’s development goals
He was, however, optimistic that recently enacted laws would safeguard telecommunications and electricity infrastructures installed for the benefit of both the consumer and service providers.
The Head of State emphasized that the government had enacted laws that provided for harsher sentences to eradicate vandalism of vital telecommunication and electric installations.
In order to develop Kenya into a knowledge driven economy, President Kibaki directed the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology to team up with other line ministries to convert at least two public universities into institutes of technology.
He said this was important in order to create requisite capacity to move the country to greater heights.
President Kibaki said, “In the last few years my government in partnership with the private sector has realized major milestones towards the achievement of a Knowledge Based economy.”
The Head of State stressed that the institutes would focus on research in science and technology and strive to produce competent graduates who can sustain the economy in the future
He remarked, “We must all work together to develop home grown capacity in these new technologies. In this regard, I urge mobile operators to work with the Government and the Universities to realize the human capacity we need for our twenty thirty vision on technology. It is anticipated that the technology we are launching today, will make it easier for the said institutions of learning to access the required data and information at any location any time.”
During the occasion, he affirmed that the government was also promoting knowledge based industries covering both high and medium technology industries
These include Business Process Outsourcing, Computer/Electronic hardware manufacturing, Software Development, Information and Broadcasting,Filmingand Digital content development, Communication and financial services among others.
“The aim is to increase our service sector contribution to GDP to more than 30 per cent by the year twenty thirty. The growth of these sub-sectors holds much promise for job creation for our youthful population that has proved extremely competent in the area of ICT,” President Kibaki remarked.
Commending Telkom Kenya for positioning themselves as major data services player in the country, President Kibaki asserted that the government recognized the important role that access to knowledge, information and communication had in the development of any country.
Said the President, “Telkom Kenya becomes the second mobile service provider to launch its 3G network in the country. We congratulate Telkom Kenya for making such a bold stride in the ever dynamic field of Information, Communications Technology.”
The Head of State noted, “Last July, I launched the Open Data Portal to further give the on-going reforms the necessary impetus to make core Government development data and information available to the general public. Mobile telephony will indeed enhance access to this Open Data Portal.”
During the occasion he expressed delight at the increased number of internet subscribers in Kenya rising from 3 million users in 2009 to over 11 million subscribers to date of whom 64 per cent use their mobile phones.
Terming the launch of the fast and reliable network by the company timely so as to serve the many users efficiently, the President said the new technology would boost internet penetration as well lay a firm basis for employment creation.
SOURCE: STATE HOUSE KENYA
NAIROBI: ADVISORY ON COVERAGE OF SUMMIT ON HORN OF AFRICA FRIDAY
The climax of the Horn of Africa Crisis meeting at the UN takes place tomorrow at the UN Gigigiri. The function tomorrow features heads of state and government. It will kick off at 9 am.
Members of the press covering the event will be spared the processes of earlier registration. But they will need to carry their press identification cards to be allowed in at the gate.
DENNIS ONYANGO.
08.09.2011.
Members of the press covering the event will be spared the processes of earlier registration. But they will need to carry their press identification cards to be allowed in at the gate.
DENNIS ONYANGO.
08.09.2011.
NAIROBI: CHANGE IN PROGRAMME:
The PM will attending the burial of the late Wambui Otieno in Upper Matasia at 10 am today and later go to Parliament. Foreign Affairs Minister Moses Wetangula will therefore open the Ministerial meeting in Gigiri today.
DENNIS ONYANGO
DENNIS ONYANGO
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
NAIROBI: PM OPENS MINISTERIAL MEETING ON HORN OF AFRICA
Prime Minister Raila Odinga will tomorrow, September 8, 2011, open the Ministerial Meetings on the Horn of Africa Crisis at the UN Complex in Gigiri.
The ministerial meeting will feature ministerial level consultations and discussions in order to agree on respective actions plans ahead of the heads of State and Goverment meeting on Friday, September 9, 2011.
Discussions tomorrow will feature Peace, Security and Humanitarian Assistance and Sustainable Development in Somalia, Country-based programmes to end drought emergencies, among other topics.
The PM will open the meeting at 9 am.
DENNIS ONYANGO.
The ministerial meeting will feature ministerial level consultations and discussions in order to agree on respective actions plans ahead of the heads of State and Goverment meeting on Friday, September 9, 2011.
Discussions tomorrow will feature Peace, Security and Humanitarian Assistance and Sustainable Development in Somalia, Country-based programmes to end drought emergencies, among other topics.
The PM will open the meeting at 9 am.
DENNIS ONYANGO.
NAIROBI: Vice President Kalonzo to open COMAIV Conference
Media Advisory
September 6, 2011
H.E Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka will tomorrow Thursday, September 8, 2011 at 9.00 am officially open the Fifth Conference of African Ministers in Charge of Integration (COMAIV) at Intercontinental Hotel, Nairobi.
Experts have been meeting at the hotel since Monday ahead of the Ministers' meeting with the theme integration and sovereignty.
What: VP to open Fifth Conference of Ministers in Charge of Integration
Where: Intercontinental hotel
When: Thursday, September 8,2011
Time: 9am
Kindly provide coverage
Regards,
Dave Buchere
PRO, Ministry of State for Planning, National Development and Vision 2030
Tel. 0722376916.
September 6, 2011
H.E Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka will tomorrow Thursday, September 8, 2011 at 9.00 am officially open the Fifth Conference of African Ministers in Charge of Integration (COMAIV) at Intercontinental Hotel, Nairobi.
Experts have been meeting at the hotel since Monday ahead of the Ministers' meeting with the theme integration and sovereignty.
What: VP to open Fifth Conference of Ministers in Charge of Integration
Where: Intercontinental hotel
When: Thursday, September 8,2011
Time: 9am
Kindly provide coverage
Regards,
Dave Buchere
PRO, Ministry of State for Planning, National Development and Vision 2030
Tel. 0722376916.
NAIROBI:MEDIA ALERT
Members of the Borana Community from Isiolo County will tomorrow (Thursday 8th Sept. 2011) address a Media Conference on the escalating cases of insecurity in the County which have for the past one year alone claimed over 30 lives and over 16,000 livestock taken away by militia claimed to be from the neighbouring Samburu County.
These cases have been going on unabated and this is a worrying trend according to them.
In their hundreds, the Isiolo County residents will address the press at Uhuru Park at 10.am and thereafter hold a peaceful procession to the Offices of the President, Prime Minister and Vigilance House to present a memorandum on the same.
Your esteemed Media House is invited to cover this event.
Thank you and God Bless.
P. A. Etale.
These cases have been going on unabated and this is a worrying trend according to them.
In their hundreds, the Isiolo County residents will address the press at Uhuru Park at 10.am and thereafter hold a peaceful procession to the Offices of the President, Prime Minister and Vigilance House to present a memorandum on the same.
Your esteemed Media House is invited to cover this event.
Thank you and God Bless.
P. A. Etale.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
NAIROBI: MEDIA BRIEFING ON HORN OF AFRICA CONFERENCE
We invite you to a media briefing on the above conference at the PM's offices at 2.30 PM today.
Various government ministers and officials will attend. The Conference opens on Thursday and runs till Friday this week.
DENNIS ONYANGO
Various government ministers and officials will attend. The Conference opens on Thursday and runs till Friday this week.
DENNIS ONYANGO
Monday, September 5, 2011
NAIROBI: PRIME MINISTER RAILA ODINGA MEETS KNUTS OFFICIALS
The PM and other government officials is shortly going into a meeting with KNUT over the strike threat. He will brief the media at midday at the PM's office on the outcome of the meeting.
DENNIS ONYANGO
DENNIS ONYANGO
NAIROBI: Vodacom Tanzania gets new MD
SA's largest cellular company, Vodacom, has appointed a new MD for its Tanzanian operation.
The company this morning issued a statement saying Rene Meza would take over from Dietlof Mare, who had requested a change in roles after spending almost five years in Tanzania.
Meza is currently MD of Bharti Airtel's Kenya operations, and has more than 12 years' experience in telecommunications across Africa, Asia and Latin America. Meza will take up the position later this year.
CEO for international operations Johan Dennelind says: “We're very excited to have Rene [Meza] joining the team.”
Dennelind says Meza has a range of experience in emerging markets as diverse as Paraguay, Pakistan and Kenya.
Tanzania is now Vodacom's second-largest operation outside South Africa, with more than nine million customers.
“Dietlof has led the business admirably and has been instrumental in the implementation of M-Pesa and other initiatives that have placed the company well for the future,” says Dennelind.
Vodacom has more than 40 million subscribers on the continent. It operates networks in Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique, and Lesotho, and provides carrier and business services to customers in over 70 African countries.
An announcement as to Dietlof's new role will be made in due course
Source: www.itweb.co.za
Friday, September 2, 2011
NAIROBI: PRIME MINISTER ON MAU MAU CASE
Prime Minister Raila Odinga today promised to initiate serious consultations to in Cabinet to ensure the government comes to the aid of Mau Mau war veterans who are seeking compensation from Britain for the atrocities committed during Kenya’s struggle for independence.
Speaking when he met Mau Mau war veterans together with their British and local lawyers at his offices, Mr Odinga said the case the group has launched against Britain has sympathy in government, although the Cabinet is yet to take a position.
The PM said the Mau Mau case is a matter of principle and its resolution is critical to creating a nation that is at peace with its history.
He noted that while the Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission currently in place seeks to address the human rights abuses from 1963 to 2008, there was need for the country to come to terms with pre-independence history, which is what the Mau Mau case seeks to achieve.
“We have recently lost Wambui Otieno. But we also know Wambui’s grandfather, Waiyaki wa Hinga was buried alive and these are some of the things we really need to address,” the PM said.
The lawyer for the veterans Mr Martyn Day, who was accompanied by local counterparts Paul Muite and Gitobu Imanyara, said there were high chances of the veterans winning the case.
He said the British government has recently declassified documents that would be useful in the case but appealed for government support.
Muite said the British is dragging the case, while the veterans are wallowing in poverty, with many dying. He cited the death of Mrs Wambui Otieno as one such blow.
Mr Odinga said he is happy with the progress made on the case so far and promised personal support as he lobbies the government to fully back it.
“Although we have TJRC looking into the post-independence abuses, the picture will not be complete until we deal with what happened earlier,” the PM said.
The PM said the country has not done well in recognizing and honouring its heroes, adding that the situation is set to change with the recent approval of the Kenya Heroes Bill 2011.
The Bill provides for the recognition, identification and selection of heroes and the category of heroes. It further establishes the National Heroes Council that shall establish the criteria of selecting and honoring national heroes. The criteria shall be based on such values as patriotism, integrity, visionary, courage, enterprise, sacrifice and lasting national impact.
“The people who fought for the freedom of this country have to be remembered more substantively than has been the case where they are paraded out during national holidays.
He said he is keen to see the freedom fighters given time to speak to the country on public holidays as opposed to the situation now where those who have second hand information on where the country is coming from play lead role.
PMPS.
Speaking when he met Mau Mau war veterans together with their British and local lawyers at his offices, Mr Odinga said the case the group has launched against Britain has sympathy in government, although the Cabinet is yet to take a position.
The PM said the Mau Mau case is a matter of principle and its resolution is critical to creating a nation that is at peace with its history.
He noted that while the Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission currently in place seeks to address the human rights abuses from 1963 to 2008, there was need for the country to come to terms with pre-independence history, which is what the Mau Mau case seeks to achieve.
“We have recently lost Wambui Otieno. But we also know Wambui’s grandfather, Waiyaki wa Hinga was buried alive and these are some of the things we really need to address,” the PM said.
The lawyer for the veterans Mr Martyn Day, who was accompanied by local counterparts Paul Muite and Gitobu Imanyara, said there were high chances of the veterans winning the case.
He said the British government has recently declassified documents that would be useful in the case but appealed for government support.
Muite said the British is dragging the case, while the veterans are wallowing in poverty, with many dying. He cited the death of Mrs Wambui Otieno as one such blow.
Mr Odinga said he is happy with the progress made on the case so far and promised personal support as he lobbies the government to fully back it.
“Although we have TJRC looking into the post-independence abuses, the picture will not be complete until we deal with what happened earlier,” the PM said.
The PM said the country has not done well in recognizing and honouring its heroes, adding that the situation is set to change with the recent approval of the Kenya Heroes Bill 2011.
The Bill provides for the recognition, identification and selection of heroes and the category of heroes. It further establishes the National Heroes Council that shall establish the criteria of selecting and honoring national heroes. The criteria shall be based on such values as patriotism, integrity, visionary, courage, enterprise, sacrifice and lasting national impact.
“The people who fought for the freedom of this country have to be remembered more substantively than has been the case where they are paraded out during national holidays.
He said he is keen to see the freedom fighters given time to speak to the country on public holidays as opposed to the situation now where those who have second hand information on where the country is coming from play lead role.
PMPS.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
NAIROBI: Press Statement on Libya
We have been following with utmost attention the rapidly evolving situation in Libya. Consistent with the African Union Road map for Libya, Kenya has always believed that only a political solution will make it possible to fulfill the mutually reinforcing objectives of peace, democracy, respect for human rights, the rule of law, and national reconciliation for the people of Libya.
With the impending collapse of the regime of Colonel Muammar Gaddaffi, Kenya urges that all efforts be exerted for the early restoration of peace and stability in Libya. We therefore call on the interim authority to proceed with the immediate establishment of an all inclusive political dialogue aimed at bringing together all the people of Libya, and that will culminate in the holding of free, fair and transparent elections under a new constitution.
The task ahead of restoring order, forging reconciliation and national cohesion, restoring infrastructure and reviving the economy is indeed a tall one. Kenya stands ready to work with the people of Libya, the African Union and the International Community to help build a new Libya.
Hon. Prof. George Saitoti, EGH, MP
AG. MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS
With the impending collapse of the regime of Colonel Muammar Gaddaffi, Kenya urges that all efforts be exerted for the early restoration of peace and stability in Libya. We therefore call on the interim authority to proceed with the immediate establishment of an all inclusive political dialogue aimed at bringing together all the people of Libya, and that will culminate in the holding of free, fair and transparent elections under a new constitution.
The task ahead of restoring order, forging reconciliation and national cohesion, restoring infrastructure and reviving the economy is indeed a tall one. Kenya stands ready to work with the people of Libya, the African Union and the International Community to help build a new Libya.
Hon. Prof. George Saitoti, EGH, MP
AG. MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS
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