Gichugu MP Robert Gichimu
Gichugu MP Robert Gichimu has opposed the proposed Direct Settlement System (DSS), warning it could destabilise coffee cooperatives and hurt farmers. The DSS aims to pay farmers directly via mobile money, bypassing societies—a move that sparked protests in Kerugoya. Speaking during a meeting with cooperative leaders, Gichimu emphasised the importance of cooperatives in offering financial services, including loans, subsidised inputs, and support systems. “Farmers benefit more when they are united through societies. These societies offer more than just payments; they offer support systems, financial assistance, and access to subsidised inputs,” said the MP.
Furthermore, Gichimu also criticised the Commissioner of Cooperatives’ proposal to have Annual General Meetings (AGMs) attended only by elected delegates rather than all farmers. He said this move is illegal and can easily be manipulated by cartels. Leaders echoed concerns over data security, loss of accountability, and weakening input distribution systems. They urged Parliament to ensure reforms strengthen—not undermine—cooperative structures.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale said the country had recorded notable progress, with 24.4 million Kenyans already registered voluntarily under the Social Health Authority (SHA). In Taita Taveta, 159,000 residents have signed up, ranking the county 12th nationally and third in the Coast region behind Mombasa and Lamu. He emphasised that the registration exercise was being conducted fairly and without coercion. To simplify access, the Ministry launched a USSD code (*147#) to enable Kenyans to register using their phones.
Youth in Vihiga participating in a peaceful demonstration, demanding for their voice to be heard in the running of the county affairs. They held a peaceful protest outside the county headquarters in Mbale, calling for more inclusion in the development agenda and the ongoing search for a county anthem. Armed with placards and engaging in calm dialogue, they presented a petition to county leadership calling for more participation in key decision-making processes. Their demands included increased support for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, enhanced grassroots engagement, and the realignment of budget priorities to reflect youth needs.
Residents of Lodwar Municipality in Turkana County have called on local authorities to prioritise the installation and repair of security lights in areas such as Safari Club, Kalahari, Loturerei, and Napetao—citing them as security threats. Speaking during a citizens’ forum, locals also urged the municipality to improve road access to health facilities, enhance recreational spaces, beautify roundabouts, and install proper drainage systems. “Many of the challenges we pointed out in previous sittings have been addressed. However, we now want the Municipality to focus on streetlights. Put up new ones and repair the existing ones especially around Kalahari and Safari club,’ said Anastasia Ekeno from Kanamkemer.
Political leaders in Kilifi County are calling for the swift resolution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) impasse to allow the swearing-in of newly appointed commissioners.
Led by National Assembly Deputy Majority Leader Owen Baya, Woman Representative Gertrude Mbeyu, and former Magarini MP Harrison Kombe, the leaders said the continued delay was denying Kenyans their right to representation—particularly in areas awaiting by-elections like Magarini. Speaking at Marafa Vocational Training Centre during a wildlife compensation event, Baya criticised ongoing court cases stalling the process, warning that the impasse threatens national electoral timelines. Mbeyu echoed the concern, urging petitioners to withdraw their cases, warning that delays could affect preparations for the 2027 General Election. Kombe appealed directly to the President to intervene, noting that Magarini residents have been without a representative for over a year due to the stalled by-election.
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