Former Kitui governor Hon. Charity Ngilu yesterday attended the funeral of the late Benjamin Lonzi Mulili, whose body had been held in the mortuary for six months over 1.7 million hospital bill and 190,000 shillings mortuary bill.
The late Mulili, who had been ailing since 2021, had undergone various surgeries and therapies before succumbing to prostrate cancer and kidney failure last year in November. The family had been unable to raise the hospital and mortuary bills since then, until Mama Ngilu stepped in and helped them give their loved one a decent funeral.
Speaking during during the funeral held at Nzaini Village in Athi Ward, the former governor stressed on the need to open up Kitui county government offices to the public, like it was the case during her governing regime.
“Public offices belong to the voters and not the voted,” Said Mama Ngilu. “Open up those offices to the public and always spare time to listen to what they have to say since they entrusted you with that office as the custodian and not the owner,” She added, making it clear that she would reopen all those offices to the public once more when she gets reelected in 2027.
Hon. Charity Ngilu eulogized the late Benjamin Mulili as a loving father, dedicated husband, and a humble father-figure to the society.
Residents of Iiani village in Kiatine, Kitui West are a grateful lot, after Hon. Godwin Kang’ali Ngei came to their rescue; upgrading the Iiani AIC- Mithumu river road to murram standard.
In an initiative that was born out of the community’s partnership with Hon. Kang’ali Ngei, the road that has never for once been graded was transformed from a village dirt-track into a standard murram road.
Speaking to our reporter, Mr Moris Munyao a resident of Iiani village narrated how the road has been impassable during the rainy seasons.
“We have had to abandon our vehicles very far away and walk in the mud to get home,”Said Mr. Munyao.
He disclosed how past efforts to have the government intervene and grade the road have been futile, dooming the community to their fate. Mr. Munyao also thanked Hon. Kang’ali and the community at large for taking such a bold step to bring development to their area. He also echoed the community’s calls for the government to intervene and upgrade the road all the way to river Mithumu and beyond, saying that such a project would open the area to more trade and agriculture.
When reached for comments, Hon. Kang’ali Ngei affirmed his dedication to making development no longer a political privilege but a basic right.
The Kitui West PWD community has something to smile about, after their member of parliament Hon Edith Nyenze donated 330 wheelchairs and walking assistance devices to them.
In a three-day event, that began on Tuesday 14th May and ended yesterday, the Edith Nyenze Foundation in collaboration with Hope Mobility and National Council for Person’s with Disabilities saw the distribution of the walking aids at the Kitui West NG-CDF offices in Ndolos Corner, Kabati.
The beneficiaries had been mapped at an earlier exercise late last month, with various physically challenged persons being tested, assessed and counseled in the drive that took place in Matinyani and Kabati towns in the constituency.
Speaking to our reporter after receiving a specialized wheelchair for her 15 year-old son, Elizabeth Syomiti Kyee could not hide her joy at the relief the donation had brought her. She confided that for the last fifteen years she had been burdened with carrying her son Mwendwa Kyende, who surfers from acute autism, on her back all the time. Elizabeth, who hails from Kitundu village, Mutulu in Matinyani heaped praises on the initiative, calling upon all parents with physically challenged children to bring them out in the oven and receive assistance.
Another proud beneficiary, James Kavwele Kisavu from Nyuani in Kakeani could not hold back his tears of joy for what the Edith Nyenze Foundation had done to his daughter Margaret Mutheu. He narrated to the Kitui Newspaper how the MP had encouraged the community to form a CBO for the disabled in 2019. As the coordinator forMutonguni Disability Group, James confided how Hon. Edith Nyenze has been in the forefront by paying for the disabled children’s school fees through the NG-CDF Bursary kitty. He heaped praises on the initiative to donate free walking aids to the physically challenged in the society, specifically thanking the Edith Nyenze Foundation and partners for donating a special wheelchair for his daughter who has walking impairment.
Speaking to the press, Hon. Edith Nyenze disclosed that the devices had cost 9.3 million shillings.She expressed unfathomable gratitude to her partners NCPWD and Hope Mobility, an NGO founded by a Kenyan US resident who is also physically challenged. She also confided her future plans to reach out to all PWDs in the constituency, reiterating that even those who haven’t been issued with assistive gadgets would be factored in July this year when the foundation holds the next donation exercise. Hon. Nyenze vowed to make sure that the mapping and assessment of persons with disabilities would be carried out annually to ensure that the government has up-to-date records of all the persons living with and their types of disabilities.
Governor Charity Ngilu’s reentry into the political fray in Kitui County marks a significant resurgence in her influence and presence, as underscored by the latest developments where her predecessor, Julius Malombe, appears to acknowledge her formidable stature in local politics.
After a period of relative quiet following her defeat in the 2013 gubernatorial race, Ngilu’s political comeback has been nothing short of remarkable. Elected as the first female governor of Kitui County in 2017, Ngilu promised to bring transformative change to the region, focusing on key issues such as water scarcity, healthcare, and infrastructure development. Governor Ngilu made her bold come back declaration yesterday at Nzaini Village in Athi Ward, Kitui south, during the fundraiser for the body of Benjamin Lonzi Mulili which has been held at the Montezuma Funeral Home for seven months over 1.7M unpaid medical bills. The late Mulili passed away at the South B Hospital, and his family had been unable to lay him to rest until Mama Ngilu came to their aid. Click here to view the video
Central to Ngilu’s vision of transformative development were initiatives like the Kitui County Textile Centre (KICOTEC), which aimed to harness the region’s rich textile heritage to create employment opportunities for local youths. Additionally, projects like the Kwa Kilui Stone Crusher and other cottage industries provided vital sources of income and employment, particularly for the county’s youth population.
Moreover, Malombe’s ascent to power again has also brought to light the mismanagement and corruption that has plagued the county like never before. Malombe’s tenure is marred by allegations of runaway nepotism in government appointments, with key positions having been awarded to his relatives at the expense of qualified candidates.
Furthermore, reports of wanton looting of county resources by Malombe’s nuclear family further have tarnished his administration’s reputation, leading to a significant erosion of public trust and confidence.
As Ngilu continues to implement her ambitious development agenda, her emphasis on transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance stands in stark contrast to the legacy of Malombe’s administration. The stark juxtaposition between Ngilu’s transformative leadership and Malombe’s governance failures has further contributed to the current governor’s diminishing popularity among the county populace.
With Ngilu’s unwavering commitment to fostering sustainable development and combating corruption, her triumphant return to the Kitui political arena signals a new era of hope and progress for the people of Kitui County. As she continues to consolidate her support base and implement her vision for a brighter future, Ngilu’s leadership serves as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.
Welcome back Mama, your sons and daughters of Kitui have missed you immensely!
Compare and contrast the two different plot numbers. The bottom image is the copy circulated by Malombe’s bloggers claiming he owns Mr. Malusi’s parcel of land.
Yesternight, in a desperate bid to cover the land grabbing attempts exposed by the Kitui Newspaper, Malombe and his family turned to their official online propaganda channel trying to justify the heinous crime as just a family developing their piece of land.
They even went ahead to attach a six-months’ statement showing that Dr. Julius Malombe has been paying land rates for the disputed parcel of land.
However, as lies will always be, everything about their argument falls flat on its face, as whatever land Malombe lays ownership to is plot number 78(38), and not plot number 79b, which he’s trying to forcefully grab from Mr. Dominic Siasa Malusi.
Like prophet Nathan said to King David about a rich man who had many cattle and sheep, but when he got guests he decided to slaughter his poor neighbor’s only lamb, governor Malombe has decided to misuse his position in power to possess what doesn’t belong to him simply because he can. If that is not the reincarnation of gluttony, then it must be the physical manifestation of pure market-grade greed.
A copy of court orders obtained by Mr. Malusi barring Malombe from proceeding with the construction on the disputed land.
Is Malombe and his family above the law? Can the first family just wake up and decide to possess what’s yours and you’ll have no choice? Even if the land’s ownership was to be disputed, shouldn’t it be through legal channels rather than armed goons as Malombe and his step-brother Dan Kithuku did on Sunday? Even with Mr. Malusi having obtained a court order stopping any further activity or trespass on his piece of land, will Malombe, in all his arrogant glory, honor the court order or he’ll disregard it and proceed his incessant threats and intimidation to the poor old man?
When all is said and done, whatever Minotaur we’re feeding in that top office will surely eventually devour us , albeit bit by bit, and it’s just a matter of time; unless the people stand up to say Enough is Enough!
Have yourselves a frabjous week and thank you for choosing Kitui Newspaper as your most trusted source of truthful and factual news.
The Kitui first family has hit the headlines again, in another land grabbing saga.
A trader in Kitui town’s Kunda Kindu stage is crying foul, after what he’s termed as forceful eviction attempts by governor Malombe from his land.
According to documents in our possession, the disputed piece of land in the New Market, plot number 79B, was allocated to Mr. Dominic Siasa Malusi in June 2003 by the Kitui Municipal Council.
Mr. Malusi has been religiously paying his land rates as the owner of the said plot since. However, governor Malombe and his family stepped in last week to claim ownership of the land, and promptly began constructing a perimeter wall around the parcel of land.
Things have moved from nasty to ugly, with the governor’s step-brother Dan Kithuku leading a forced eviction from the land. In a show of might, the brother is reported to have hired armed goons who stormed the plot yesterday, vandalizing and looting the property of Mr. Malusi, as his staff and family fled for their lives.
In what appears as a collusion between the governor and the Kitui Police Station, despite four of the armed goons having been arrested in yesterday’s incident, they were released under unclear circumstances in the night, and never arraigned in court today; much to the chagrin of Mr. Malusi, his family and staff, who had recorded statements with the police and were expecting justice to be served.
When the Kitui Newspaper reporter visited the scene earlier today, construction was still ongoing, despite the site having no sign post stating the contractor, engineer, developer and NCA/Physical Planning approvals as required by law. The existing business premises owned by Mr. Malusi also lay in ruins, a testimony of the brutality meted upon it by Malombe’s goons yesterday.
Coincidentally, the governor’s step brother also made a call to Mr. Malusi s son, threatening him and going on record that there’s nothing they can do to prevent the first family from possessing and developing the land.
“Hamuwezi shindana na sisi, hamna io pesa,” boasted Dan Kithuku.(You can’t compete with us, you don’t have the money)
Speaking to our reporter, Carol Mueni, the guestrooms’ attendant who survived the goons’attack yesterday recounted the harrowing experience she went through as Dan Kithuku sat in a government double-cabin outside and watched animatedly.
“They were wielding swords, pangas and other crude weapons,” she recounted tearfully. “They ordered all the guests out and then proceeded to knock down walls and Rob the place as I was forced to watch,” she added, not believing what the goons could have done to her had the police not shown up in time.
Now Mr. Malusi is crying for justice, as he stares at the imminent loss of his land for 18 years to the all-powerful first family.
“If the governor can just wake up and decide to forcefully possess a poor man’s land at will, then in whose hands are we safe?” He lamented.
Kitui West constituency witnessed a remarkable event earlier this week as the Edith Vethi Nyenze Foundation, in collaboration with the Kenya Institute of Special Education, the National Council for Persons with Disabilities, and Hope Mobility, organized a two-day medical camp aimed at providing essential healthcare services to persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the region.
The initiative, spearheaded by Member of Parliament Edith Nyenze, saw an impressive turnout of individuals seeking medical assistance and support. The camp, held on Tuesday and Wednesday, was strategically hosted at two different venues to accommodate the large number of attendees.
On Tuesday, Matinyani Boys Secondary School served as the venue for the medical camp, where 250 PWDs gathered to receive much-needed medical attention and support services. The event not only provided access to healthcare but also served as a platform for awareness and advocacy for the rights and needs of persons with disabilities.
Wednesday brought another wave of beneficiaries as the medical camp shifted its location to the Kabati Catholic Church hall. This venue saw an even larger turnout, with 500 PWDs in attendance, reflecting the significant demand for accessible healthcare services in the area.
The medical camp offered a wide range of services, including medical check-ups, consultations, mapping for distribution of assistive devices, physiotherapy sessions, and counseling sessions. A team of dedicated healthcare professionals and volunteers worked tirelessly to ensure that each individual received personalized care and support tailored to their needs.
The collaborative effort between the Edith Vethi Nyenze Foundation, the Kenya Institute of Special Education, the National Council for Persons with Disabilities, and Hope Mobility highlights the power of partnership in addressing the healthcare needs of marginalized communities. By pooling resources and expertise, these organizations were able to make a tangible difference in the lives of hundreds of individuals living with disabilities.
MP Edith Nyenze expressed her gratitude to all partners and volunteers involved in making the medical camp a success. She emphasized the importance of inclusive healthcare and pledged continued support for initiatives that promote the well-being and empowerment of persons with disabilities in Kitui West.
The MP also called upon parents with disabled children to stop hiding them at home for fear of stigmatization but bring them out to access healthcare and education, sentiments that were echoed by the Kitui West curriculum support officer for special education Mr. Elijah Kitonyi.
As the medical camp concluded, its impact reverberated throughout the community, leaving a legacy of compassion, solidarity, and hope. The event not only provided essential healthcare services but also fostered a sense of unity and support among individuals with disabilities, reaffirming their inherent dignity and right to quality healthcare.
Hon Edith Nyenze disclosed that there will be another exercise on 17th May this year, where the beneficiaries of the camp will be issued with respective assistive equipment. She also pledged to be holding such camps annually, through the foundation, so as to ensure all PWDs have access to quality healthcare.
The success of the medical camp serves as a testament to the commitment of all stakeholders to build a more inclusive and equitable society, where every individual, regardless of ability, has access to the care and support they need to thrive.
Long before the colonialists came to Africa, the Akamba were already a power to reckon with in East Africa.
They were the dominant community in trade, art and medicine.
As soon as the first white men set foot on Africa, they encountered these aggressive traders. They are the ones who took them inside East Africa as they were already familiar with all the routes and all the people from the Coast to Lake Turkana.
But it’s due to their wit and bravery that they were the first casualties of colonialism. They had to be neutralised in order that the Mzungu could dominate Kenya.
There is no early record of British East African history that does not talk of the Akamba. Many journals have described the Akamba as the “premier martial race” while others describe Akamba warriors as “the soldiers of the Queen”.
For Colonialism to succeed, the Akamba had to be destroyed. Their culture destroyed. All the traditions destroyed and replaced with modern colonialist ideals. Their means of survival were completely destroyed and instead the Akamba were huddled into a corner completely at the mercy of colonialists. Their survival now was through working with the colonialists as askaris and carrier corps in their various wars. And even there, the Akamba stood out.
Kenya’s independence was achieved through the blood of patriots. Among these were many from the Akamba community. Independence should have made sure that each community got back whatever they had lost through colonialism. But this never happened for the Akamba.
Sixty years after independence and the Akamba have never regained their past glory. They are still like sheep without a shepherd, many times behaving like fish out of water. And every Kamba leader who has managed to get a chance to jump out of the rat race has only had one thing in mind:- their own personal survival.
The very fabric that kept the Akamba community strong and dominant, their clans and traditions are all but gone.
And it’s high time we got these back.
We must rebuild our clan fabric. We must rebuild our traditional fabric that made us the greatest people in the region. We need our courage back. We need our strength back.
In recent years, initiatives aimed at empowering women through skill development have gained traction across various regions in Kenya. One such initiative is the basket weaving project initiated by the Kyalo kya Maendeeo Foundation in Kitui County.
This project not only seeks to provide women with a source of income but also aims to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of basket weaving in the region.
Basket weaving holds significant cultural and economic importance in Kitui County, serving as both a traditional craft and a means of livelihood for many women. However, despite its potential to uplift communities, the craft has faced various challenges, including lack of support and limited access to markets.
The Kyalo kya Maendeeo Foundation’s initiative presents a unique opportunity to address these challenges and empower women in Kitui County. By providing training, resources, and access to markets both local and abroad, the project enables women to enhance their skills, generate income, and contribute to the socio-economic development of their communities.
To maximize the impact of this initiative, it is imperative for the Kitui County government and local leaders to lend their support. By allocating resources, creating enabling policies, and facilitating partnerships, they can create a conducive environment for the growth and sustainability of the basket weaving industry. Moreover, by actively promoting the initiative, they can raise awareness and mobilize additional support from stakeholders at the local, national, and international levels.
A compelling example of the positive outcomes that can be achieved through government support is the Kigumo Basket Weavers’ Expo in Murang’a County. This annual event, supported by the Ministry of Industrialization, Trade, and Enterprise Development, has played a crucial role in showcasing the talents of local artisans, creating market linkages, and fostering innovation in basket weaving techniques.
Through targeted interventions and strategic collaborations, the Expo has transformed the lives of many women weavers in the region, empowering them economically and socially.
By drawing inspiration from the success of the Kigumo Basket Weavers’ Expo, Kitui County leaders can develop similar initiatives tailored to the needs and aspirations of their communities. By leveraging local resources, expertise, and cultural heritage, they can unlock the full potential of the basket weaving industry and pave the way for sustainable development.
In conclusion, the women basket weaving initiative spearheaded by the Kyalo kya Maendeeo Foundation holds immense promise for empowering women and driving economic growth in Kitui County. However, its success hinges on the collective efforts of the county government, local leaders, and other stakeholders. By rallying behind this initiative, they can foster an environment of inclusivity, empowerment, and prosperity for all.
I have not met any Kamba politician as resilient, aggressive and consistent as Dr Augustus Kyalo Muli. As a matter of fact, Kyalo’s perseverance matches if not surpasses that of the desert rose.
I vividly recall when exactly two years ago a totally unknown politician, barely known for his mega business achievements, entered the scene in Kitui and started campaigning for Wiper and later declared his interest to contest Kitui County Assembly Speaker seat.
I remember clearly how political brokers surrounded him and started immediately eating off the “Dubai millionaire”, as they later came to nickname him.
The MCAs at that time had a phrase “let’s finish him and send him back to Dubai”. And ‘eat’ him they did, it was open season, and Kyalo Muli was really generous… But somehow, they unfortunately never succeeded to send him back to Dubai, something that still makes some walk face down whenever they meet with their former benefactor.
If anything, Kyalo Muli seemed to have emerged from that episode more energized and definitely more informed.
And since then, the now National Anzauni Clan Patron has surprised each and every critic and analyst.
He immediately formed his Kyalo Kya Maendeeo initiative and started what has turned out with time to be the best women enterprise in Kitui.
Using his network of friends and associates, Dr. Kyalo has trained women in modern basket weaving techniques and facilitated production of hundreds of baskets which have found lucrative markets in Europe and the Middle East.
Dr. Augustus Kyalo Muli also went ahead to become the party leader National Liberal Party, adding another feather to his hat, after being crowned the Anzauni Clan national patron. ORPP: National Liberal Party
Being a man who never runs out of ideas, Dr.Kyalo has organized the Wathi Festival in August this year,bringing together all the 22 clans in Ukambani. He has already donated 1 million shillings to cater for the prizes and is optimistic of another 10 million from friends and associates for the event.
The Akamba Cultural Festival (Wathi) used to be a uniting factor for the entire ethnic community during the precolonial times, but the practice was phased out by modernization and the advance of western religion. It’s return brings with it both the uniqueness and the nobility of the Kamba Culture.
Political analysts and enthusiasts have let their imaginations roam free as to whatever political seat Dr. Augustus Kyalo Muli is eyeing come 2027, with a larger section hastily concluding that it must be the Kitui Central MP, owing to his origins.
I have done my analysis on this man Dr Kyalo Muli and there is no way he will be satisfied with a Constituency seat.
I have keenly followed his steps from Kitui County Assembly Speaker candidature, to Kyalo kya Maendeeo, and now National Patron of Anzauni Clan; having walked most of this journey with him as his communications officer.
From my ardent observations, you don’t need all that if all you are interested is a Constituency seat. Constituency politics are rather restricted to a tight geographical region, and not the larger Ukambani community.
A few months ago I was almost sure he was going for the Governor seat, until he had a handshake with Governor Malombe. This means his eyes are not on Governor seat and therefore most definitely set on the Senate.
Dr. Kyalo is definitely a student of Paul Ngei and Mulu Mutisya political strategies, that revolved around the axis of uniting the 22 Kamba clans, and that’s a strong force for anyone to waste on a simple constituency seat.
With the impending vacancy for the Senate seat, given that the sitting senator Hon. Enoch Kiio Wambua has already declared interest in the gubernatorial post, then Kyalo will definitely run with the golden opportunity.
It might still be too early to assert this opinion as an irrefutable fact, but all factors are favouring Dr. Augustus Kyalo Muli’s senatorial bid. But who knows, he might even run for presidency.
In the heart of Kenya’s vibrant cultural landscape lies the Akamba people, known for their rich heritage and traditions. However, over time, the essence of their culture has faced challenges, with some aspects fading into obscurity. Yet, amidst this cultural evolution, the Anzauni Clan has emerged as a beacon of hope, spearheading the revival of the long-lost traditional Akamba culture.
The Akamba people, who primarily inhabit the Eastern region of Kenya, boast a diverse cultural tapestry woven with unique customs, language, music, and dance. However, modernization, urbanization, and globalization have posed significant threats to the preservation of these traditions, leading to a gradual erosion of cultural identity among the younger generations.
Recognizing the urgency to safeguard their cultural legacy, the Anzauni Clan, through their national patron Dr. Augustus Kyalo Muli, has taken proactive steps to reclaim and celebrate the essence of Akamba heritage. With a deep reverence for their roots, the clan has embarked on a journey to reunite the 22 Akamba clans, fostering a sense of unity and collective pride in their shared cultural heritage.
At the forefront of this cultural renaissance are initiatives aimed at revitalizing traditional practices and customs. From revitalizing ancient rites of passage ceremonies to promoting the use of indigenous languages in everyday discourse, the Anzauni Clan is diligently working to ensure that the vibrancy of Akamba culture endures for generations to come.
Furthermore, the clan has leveraged various platforms, including community gatherings, cultural festivals, and digital media, to raise awareness and garner support for their revitalization efforts. Through collaborative partnerships with cultural institutions, educational organizations, and government agencies, they have been able to amplify their message and engage a wider audience in their mission.
Central to the Anzauni Clan’s patron’s approach is the belief that cultural preservation is not merely about nostalgia or antiquity but rather about empowering communities, fostering social cohesion, and promoting sustainable development. By embracing their cultural heritage, they seek to inspire a renewed sense of pride and belonging among Akamba youth, instilling in them a deep appreciation for their roots and traditions.
As the Anzauni Clan continues to lead the charge in reviving the long-lost traditional Akamba culture, their efforts serve as a testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of the Akamba people. Through their national patron’s dedication and unwavering commitment, they are paving the way for a cultural renaissance that transcends borders, bridging the past with the present and charting a path towards a vibrant and prosperous future for the Akamba community.
The Anzauni Clan will hold the largest Akamba Cultural Festival (Wathi) this year in Kitui county.
According to a statement by the clan’s national patron Dr. Augustus Kyalo Muli, the festival aims at recogniszing and promoting the Kamba Culture, with the prominent Anzauni Clan hosting the Wathi Festival in Kitui County this year.
This Festival will be a culmination point for all Akamba Clans, and its theme is to foster unity among the different clans in Ukambani .
“We will raise funds together to make this the biggest event ever,” confided an optimistic Dr. Kyalo Muli
According to the national patron, proceeds from the planned fundraiser and event will go to the winning and participating teams and to charity programmes selected by the organisers.
“Let us come together as a community. Let’s take pride in and celebrate our traditional values and practices,” beseached Dr. Muli.
The dates for the festivals are set to be communicated with time, after prior arrangements have been finalized. This is a one-of-a-kind festival, with most of the Wathi festivities having been phased out with the advance of Christianity and Muslim religions in the community.
It’s an open season for looting in the Kitui county ministry of health, as Governor Malombe’s brother-in-law and chief officer for Drugs and Medical Supplies Ministry of Health and Sanitation Aggrey Kamba and croonies hatch another genius ploy to loot from the poor patients after swindling funds meant for drugs and laboratory services.
As Kituians stare at zero drugs in the biggest hospital in the county, the Kitui Referral Hospital, and a medical lab that does nothing in terms of testing due to what they justify as ‘lack of reagents in the lab’; CO Drugs and Medical Supplies Kamba and co. have come up with a new technique to cunningly steal from the poor patients in the KCRH.
According to documents in our possession, on 26th February 2024 the county government of Kitui secretly entered into an agreement with Muthale Mission Hospital, a private medical facility, to EXCLUSIVELY provide laboratory services to the patients in the largest government health facility in the county; unbeknown to both the public and the Kitui county assembly health committee.
The deal, that was signed by the KCRH medical Supretendent Dr. John Mungai, Barnabas Kyalo the hospital administrator(for KCRH), and; Charles Kimanzi and Samuel Gitau(for Muthale Mission Hospital) on the 21st February saw all patients forced to seek laboratory services from the private catholic -owned medical facility.
According to a memo circulated to all KCRH hospital staff, acting on any lab results from any other private facility will culminate in immediate and severe disciplinary action.
Patients now are being forced to pay exhorbitant amounts of money for lab tests that cost more than half the charged prices in other private facilities in town, failure to which they won’t be attended to by the KCRH staff who are afraid of disciplinary actions.
Looking at the charge sheets for Muthale Mission Hospital, a simple test that goes for less than Ksh. 300 in most of the private laboratories has been bloated to a whooping Ksh. 3000; with the difference allegedly being split between the CO Aggrey Kamba, the Med sup Dr. Mungai, the hospital administrator Mr. Kyalo, and the head of KCRH laboratory.
Mpesa paybill numbers for Muthale Mission Hospital have been pasted all over the KCRH notice boards, waiting bays and wards, directing all patients to pay for the lab services directly to the private facility, and notifying anyone that any other lab results will not be accepted in the public institution.
When the Kitui Newspaper reporter sought audience with the hospital administration this morning, the medical Supretendent Dr. John Mungai brushed the story off by saying that Kitui county has been partnering with the mission hospital for ages, even equipping and staffing them time to time. The Hospital administrator Barnabas Kioko also reiterated the same, quoting a time that even the county government of Kitui allocated an ambulance to the private facility.
The duo defended the act by saying that they are bestowed with the power to make clinical and administrative decisions on the hospital, be it in the law or not, when our reporter asked about the involvement of the public in such cost-implication endeavor.
In a telephone interview with the Kitui Newspaper, the KCRH Lab-in charge Abdulmalik Musembi, he confirmed the existence of such an agreement, arguing that the move is meant to offer an alternative backup lab for the institution. He however disclosed that the move was aimed at curbing the outflow of patients to other private labs, which he accused of being owned or run by medical staff in the county referral hospital. He however expressed his concerns at the exhorbitant fees the patients are being subjected to at the Muthale Mission Hospital, saying that he wasn’t aware of the overcharge until our reporter called him about it.
We couldn’t reach both the chief officer and the county assembly speaker for comments by the time of going to press because their phones went unanswered. The patients in KCRH and the larger public are however calling upon the governor to step in and tame the dire situation at the referral hospital, as they accuse the management of crippling the lab services in the hospital so that they can mint money from the poor public through the overcharged and mandatory lab services at the Muthale Mission Hospital. A sneak-peak into the hospital payment records have showed disturbing statistics that 95% of the lab tests done in March this year were performed by the Muthale Mission Hospital Kitui town satellite clinic, and the amounts are staggering to millions of shillings.
The Neema Hospital has been the backup laboratory for the KCRH for over a decade, but the strict exclusivity has never been heard of since devolution; although both the medical Supretendent and the hospital administrator have gone on record saying that the move to exclusively outsource the lab services in the single private facility has both the blessings of governor Malombe and his brother-in-law the Drugs and Medical Supplies chief officer Aggrey Kamba.
In the face of a crumbling health sector, The Kiio Wambua Foundation has stood out as the lone beacon of hope to the Kitui County populace.
The foundation, through its various partners has organised various free medical camps across Kitui, bringing quality healthcare to marginalized areas in the county.
According to the foundation’s records statistics, the free medical camps have successfully managed to touch the lives of 5,169 patients from various regions of Kitui since it made its debut.
The Kiio Wambua Foundation and partners have so far organized and carried out successful free medical camps in Endau/Malalani, Kanyangi, Tseikuru and Nuu Wards.
According to the foundation’s head of operations madam Fatma Said, the turnout has been increasing by day, with the medical camp organised at Wingemi in Nuu Ward last Saturday recording an all-time high of 799 general check ups and treatment patients, 582 eye checks and treatment patients, and 257 new NHIF Registrations.
The Kiio Wambua Foundation is partnering with Lions Eye Hospital, Sasa Doctors, Nairobi West Hospital, Kenya Red Cross, NHIF, Kenya Medical Training College(Mwingi and Kitui Campuses), The Kitui County Assembly, Mwingi Specialist Hospital, Optica Kenya, Savanna Foundation, Cure Kijabe International, Catholic Medical Mission Board, and The Beth Mugo Foundation.
As Kituians still can’t comprehend why their governor has not yet sacked his brother-in-law health CO Aggrey Kamba after Kitui Newspaper exposed how he conspired to steal around 5 million Meant for a modern drug store at KCRH, Dr. Julius Malombe and his cronies have hatched a secret ploy to grab 3,000 acres of Yatta B2 Ranch land, right under the noses of the oblivious Kitui citizens!
Kitui Newspaper sleuths have gone deep undercover to unearth the carefully-orchestrated plans that will see Kituians lose the biggest tract of public land since independence. This is a tale of intrigue and genius heist that will only benefit the first family and a few top government officials in the Malombe regime. And so the story goes:
On 30th June 2023, Rose Mutuku, the CECM for Trade and Industry in Kitui County met a Joint Committee of the Management and Supervisory committees of Yatta B2 Ranching and Co-operative Society Ltd with a sole purpose:- to grant the Kitui County Executive sweeping powers to identify and excise 1500 Acres of land from the Society’s leased land at Kanyoonyoo for establishment of a ‘Special Economic Zone’ in return for a myriad of favours from the County government.
Among the favors included waivering of accumulated land rates worth 20 Million and the committee members be secretly allocated 1,500 acres of land at Katoteni for their private ranches and sponsoring the setting up of their own private economic zone. The committee members also demanded for allocation of parcels of land inside the ‘special economic zone.(Take a note of the committee, I’ll tell you more about it in a bit). The committee also stressed on the need to be granted audience with the Governor of Kitui County Dr. Julius Malombe.
The County Government, through the CECM Lands, Housing and Urban Development Frederick Kimanga then directed the District Surveyor to move to the ground, Identify and excise a Total of 1500 Acres for the said purpose sometime in November 2023.
The county government, under the instructions of CECM Frederick Kimanga, then proceeded to clear a cut line perimeter of 3,000 acres ready for fencing; an extra 1,500 acres from the illegally acquired 1,500.
The news somehow leaked to a public defender who moved to court to petition the planned land grabbing, poking holes into the manner in which the land was acquired and the social -environmental impact of such a project. The petitioner sued the county government of Kitui for unconstitutional, unlawful and illegal transgressions in alienating public land unprocedurally and contrary to the law. He pointed out that no proper public participation was done prior to the privatisation of public land, and no environmental social impact assessment was conducted before turning such a vast ecosystem into a concrete jungle. The petitioner further pointed out the invalidity of the committee, disclosing that the Yatta B2 Ranching and Co-operative Society Ltd lastly held its annual general meeting and elections for committee on 18th December 2021, so they were not legally in office and didn’t possess any powers to make such a major decision on behalf of the members. This is also in total contravention of the law, which requires all Sacco societies to conduct AGMs, file annual returns to the county department of cooperatives and elect their representative committee every year. This has not been done for years, to the full knowledge of the county government of Kitui, so the Governor was fully aware that he was dealing with committee that was illegitimately in office and therefore could not legally transact the affairs of the society. In such a monumental transaction, all society members should have been fully notified through a special general meeting or an AGM to unanimously ratify, something that was intentionally overlooked.
Following this legal suit, the CECM Lands, Housing and Urban Development Frederick Kimanga swore an affidavit terming the petitioner as politically motivated and harbouring a personal vendetta. The minister also arrogantly pointed out that the petitioner neither owned any parcel of land in the ranch, neither was he a member of the Yatta B2 Ranching and Co-operative Society Ltd. In layman’s language: “shamba inayoibwa si ya mama yako…”
Mr. Kimanga further proceeded to share in court attendance registers for a purported “public participation” allegedly held on the 2nd November 2023, whose partipants majorly included the prime beneficiaries-to-be; a few nominated mcas, top county executive members, top clergy in the county and top security bosses. The other few ‘public members’ in the list are either cooked data or pro-government stooges. According to Section 10 of the Kenyan Constitution 2010, security bosses, clergy and top government executive members don’t actively participate in public participation,rather it’s the community who give their views. They should rather only moderate and take the views of the community on any public matters.
However, it has emerged that the county commissioner, the county commander, DCI bosses, National Police Service bosses, the catholic clergy and Malombe’s top executive members dominated the participant register.
Then money started changing hands! In diverse unspecified dates late last and earlier this year, the Ministry of Trade Director for Industry Mr Fernandes Mbindu is alleged to have collected sums to the tune of 40 million from various interested contractors as bribes to award them the tender for construction of the ‘special economic zone’. He was allegedly working as the proxy for the trade minister and her husband Eric Mulevu who’s the DCC in Kikuyu. Currently, the case still under investigation by DCI.
The minister lands Frederick Kimanga however delt them a silent blow, allegedly promising the tender to some Somali contractors in return for among other things, fencing his massive private ranch in Ukasi, Mwingi. The fencing of the Ukasi Ranch by the Somali contractors is already underway as this goes to print.
After the cartels learnt that a public defender had filed a case in court challenging the land grabbing, a new plan was hastingly hatched to phase out the current committee and replace it with friendly caretaker committee that would ratify the transfer of the ranch land.
According to a letter seen by our reporter, the former Kitui Central member of parliament Titus Mbathi wrote to the governor on Wednesday 13th February 2024 requesting for the caretaker committee to be hastily formed
Governor Malombe convened an emergency secret meeting in Nairobi on Thursday 14th March, a day after, with CECMs, county solicitor and other senior government officials. Another group of ‘friends of Yatta B2’ calling themselves Nairobi B2 Stakeholders, whose chair is Titus Mbathi was also in attendance. This team also included the current Kitui Central MP and 2027 Kitui County gubernatorial hopeful Hon. Makali Mulu, Kitui Rural MP Hon. Bonnie Mwalika, former county assembly speaker Hon. George Ndoto and one Mr. Roy Mutisya.
During the meeting, the governor gave out Ksh. 200,000 for immediate community mobilization. It was agreed that six buses would be hired to ferry pro-agenda members of the public for the hastily-arranged Yatta B2 Ranching and Co-operative Society Ltd AGM. Malombe also promised that that Village, Ward and Subcounty administrators will be issued with executive directives to mobilize friendly B2 Ranch members who will come to approve the transfer of the 3,000 acres land, throw out the old committee led by Mr. Kimanzi Vundi, and approve the proposed interim caretaker committee. The date for the planned AGM was set on Saturday 23rd March 2023, next weekend!
However, most of the original members of the Yatta B2 Ranch are either long dead or too old to attend the AGM, given or not the short notice for the annual general meeting, so it will be a walk in the park for the cartels to ship in their pro-agenda voters.
Yatta B2 Ranching Corporation was awarded 23,100 acres for ranching by the then county council of Kitui in the 1960s, and the chief condition for the lease being that it should “STRICTLY (be) USED FOR RANCHING PURPOSES ONLY”. The county government only acts as a custodian, holding the land in trust for the public. The corporation’s lease has over thirty years left before its expiry.
Community social activists have sworn to fight Governor Malombe and his land grabbing cartels to the end, vowing to protect the vast ecological system of Yatta B2 land. They’ve expressed fears that such wanton destruction of indigenous natural habitat will not only cause massive human-wildlife conflict but also destroy rare and indigenous forest cover, a huge draw-back from the country’s agenda to increase forest cover by 2030.
Kitui netizens woke up to a lengthy write-up by the famous pro-government blogger Lakeli, who gave out the government’s position on the progress of the proposed modern drugs store at the Kitui County Referral Hospital. The government blogger blatantly lies to the public that “…The continuation of construction of a medical store at Kitui Referral is an ongoing process, now at procurement stage….”
However, what our investigations have unearthed is one of the biggest money heists in Malombe’s government.
According to documents in our possession, a Local purchase order number 1138, dated 1st February 2024 was secretly issued to Chempharm Pharmaceuticals Limited for the proposed completion works of drugs store at Kitui referral hospital.
A mere six days later, the chief officer Dr. Aggrey Kamba personally signedfor the dispatch of Ksh 4,495,000 to Chempharm Pharmaceuticals Limited with strict instructions to the accounts office for immediate disbursement of the lumpsum to the company accounts.
If you’re still at awe how such a mega project can possibly get completed in less than a week, maybe you should pay a visit to the KCRH. No new modern drug store exists, not even the foundation. The old drug store still stands next to the hospital’s laundrymart, a prefabricated corrugated iron sheets structure, barely valued at Ksh. 300,000,and an effigy from the previous regime.
So, why would the CO, who’s the governor’s brother-in-law, secretly and hastily process the payments for works that were never done?
The answer definitely lies in the company, so we dug a little deeper into Chempharm Pharmaceuticals Limited.
Apparently, according to the company CR-12, Chempharm Pharmaceuticals Limited is owned by one Salome Opito, a government-employed clinical officer. Salome Opito is also a member of the Kenya Obstricians and Gaenacologists Society (KOGS). Her membership number is ASSOCI125, email: saelopito14@gmail.com, and has been constantly in contact with CO Aggrey Kamba through her WhatsApp number +254724338037.
Chempharm Pharmaceuticals Limited is a proxy company for chief officer Aggrey Kamba, and Salome Opito is his surrogate. In total disregard of the Public Procurement Act 2012, which prohibits civil servants from doing business with the government, CO Kamba proceeded to award himself a government tender through a proxy company registered under a junior officer in the health ministry. He also proceeded to illegally process payments for works that were never done, while fully aware of it being criminal.
At the time of going to press, the Kitui Newspaper editorial desk has recieved numerous calls from the CO, threatening to sue for defamation if this article sees the light of the day. However, it should be known that we will never back down on any corruption exposé and shall always endeavour to publish the truth.
Kitui county is finally on the road to fully exploiting its vast mineral reserves and reap big from their economic value.
This comes after the governor Dr. Julius Malombe engaged the cabinet secretary Mining, blue economy and maritime affairs Salim Mvurya and other high-end delegates in a consultative meeting today.
The meeting, that drew representation from both the executive and county assembly, and three MPs from mineral-rich constituencies in the county, sought to discuss the vast mining opportunities in the county and how best the national and county governments can partner to ensure full economical utilisation of the vast mineral resources in the region.
Among the issues addressed included royalty sharing, licencing of Mining companies, managing consultants in the sector, safety within the mining areas, and the critical roles of both the community and county government in the licencing, exploitation and environmental conservation.
While chairing the meeting, the governor pointed out the undefined roles of the county governments in the Mining Act of 2016, noting that more amendments are required in the act, so as to clearly stipulate the exact parts the county governments should play in the entire mining endeavour.
He expressed his concerns over the meagre 300 thousand shillings Kitui County has received from the national government as four-year unpaid accumulated royalties,out of a cumulative sum of Ksh. 2.9 billion; pointing out with concern that the county has been experiencing a myriad of mining activities for the last ten years.
In his defense, CS Mvurya noted that indeed there was need for a hasty amendment of the Mining Act 2016. He however termed the act as a giant step into realization of beneficial mineral exploitation, taking into account that the previously existing mining act had been passed in 1940, way back before the country’s independence.
However, the CS promised to work hand in hand with the county government to ensure transparent and all- inclusive mining activities. He disclosed that his ministry had already gazetted the county’s artisanal mining committee, and his PS would be coming back to train the committee in two weeks time from today.
CS Mvurya also promised that the national government would build a modern mineral testing lab in Kitui county in the near future.
Also in attendance were the Kitui South MP Hon. Rachael Nyamai, the Kitui Central MP Hon. Makali Mulu, the Mwingi North MP Eng. Paul Nzengu, the ASAL CS Peninah Malonza, among a host of other dignitaries and top government officials.
In Kitui County, a seismic shift is underway as the political landscape undergoes a transformational change. The era of political recycling, where familiar faces dominated the electoral scene, is drawing to a close. Instead, a wave of fresh leadership is poised to redefine the narrative in the upcoming 2027 gubernatorial elections.
For too long, the county has witnessed a cycle of repetitive leadership, with the same individuals reappearing on ballots, promising change yet delivering stagnation. However, the electorate’s patience has waned, and a collective desire for innovation and progress has emerged.
The dawn of the 2027 elections heralds a new era of political consciousness, characterized by a rejection of the status quo and an embrace of novel perspectives. Citizens are demanding leaders who embody integrity, vision, and a genuine commitment to the welfare of the county.
This shift towards fresh leadership is indicative of a broader societal evolution, where traditional power dynamics are being challenged, and meritocracy is gaining traction. It signals a departure from entrenched interests and a move towards inclusive governance that prioritizes the needs of all citizens, regardless of political affiliation.
The candidates vying for the gubernatorial seat in 2027 are emblematic of this change. They represent a diverse array of backgrounds, experiences, and ideologies, reflecting the rich tapestry of Kitui County’s population. From grassroots activists to seasoned professionals, each contender brings a unique perspective and a fresh approach to governance.
Moreover, the electorate’s engagement in the political process has never been higher. Communities are actively participating in debates, town hall meetings, and grassroots campaigns, signaling a newfound sense of empowerment and ownership over the county’s future.
As the 2027 elections approach, the eyes of the nation are on Kitui County, as it becomes a beacon of hope for political renewal and rejuvenation. The outcome of these elections will not only shape the county’s trajectory but also serve as a testament to the power of democracy and the resilience of the human spirit.
In conclusion, the end of the political recycling era in Kitui County marks a pivotal moment in its history. With fresh leadership poised to take the reins, the county stands on the cusp of a new dawn, one defined by progress, inclusivity, and the collective pursuit of a brighter future. Am not a prophet, but Jimmy Safi is the man to watch come 2027.
Students of St. Charles Lwanga School, Kitui are boasting of a state-of-art 800- bed capacity modern hostel facility, courtesy of the Safaricom Mpesa Foundation.
The 53 million worth three-storey hostel was commissioned today by the Chief risk management and security officer Safaricom PLC Nicholas Muinde Mulila.
Mr. Mulila, who also doubles as the school’s board of management chair officially opened the hostel today, sparking the long-awaited process of modernizing the best school in the region.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Nicholas Mulila reiterated Safaricom’s dedication to equipping and modernizing learning facilities in marginalized areas in a bid to nurture upcoming professionals.
The hostel is the first of it’s kind in the region, and carries the highest ever budget allocation, with Safaricom Mpesa Foundation donating 25.86 million shillings into the project. The rest of the funds came from fundraising and parents’ contributions. Previously, Safaricom Mpesa foundation has majored on construction of girls’ hostels, with St. Charles Lwanga making a debut in their venture into boys’ hostels.
“This is the beginning of new things to come,” Hinted Mr. Mulila, citing plans to construct a mega dining hall for the school in the near future.
St. Charles Lwanga School, which boasts a population of 1500 students, with 96% of them being from Kitui County, has welcomed the modern hostel facility as god-send.
Speaking during the thanks-giving mass held at the school grounds today, the presiding priest Father Benson Katia thanked Safaricom PLC and the Mpesa Foundation for considering the school as its first beneficiary of such a modern facility.
Kitui Newspaper 