By felix miring’u

As January semester smolders its dying embers, it ashes on a quiet but significant note in

terms of student representation. Commissioned just last week at the amphitheater, we have a new DUSA (Daystar University Student Association) in office. Elections were held on Monday 28, last month. Only 809 students voted. On the material date, exams were a day away. The week before, the university was settling back from Easter. A cross-section of students say they were denied a chance

to vote for lack of a school ID. While this was a necessary measure by the Electoral Commission of Daystar (ECD), the turnout was less than fifty per cent. In such a case, the DUSA constitution stipulates a re-election or upholding of the vote by unanimous decision of electoral officials. The latter prevailed. Around campus, you can still spot ECD t-shirts from the exercise bearing the banner ‘vote today, change tomorrow’. Campaigns leading to the elections were marked by posters punctuated

ENTRY 001|FRIDAY, 16 mAY 2014

a j o u r n a l

>> CONTINUED PAGE 2

photo teaser

Mary (right) and Ivory, Communication students at Daystar University Athi River Campus, during the Star of Excellence Awards (SOEA) event held at Mavuno Mavoko Church. PHOTO/ WALTER WAMBOTE

stUDeNt represeNtatIoN

ALL SMILES:

ENTRY 001|FRIDAY, 16 mAY 20142 | DIbAjI jouRNAl (mAvoko EDITIoN)

with slogans, a manifesto

presentation that did not generate as much buzz and the occasional encounter with a vying candidate asking for your vote.

On the ballot, the candidates cleared for posts, as some remained vacant. The screening process is through the Dean of Students. Among the scale weights is grades and faith. The requirements to vie for a DUSA post ought to be made highlighted in all possible avenues by ECD and more so, made favorable for any student with leadership ambitions. That some posts had to be re-advertised and other having only one candidate reveals a discordance.

It could be apathy on the part of the student as it is on national front, but this can well be eliminated through interactive ‘civic education’. The DUSA constitution needs to be available to all and subject to review. During the manifesto

presentation, none of the candidates pointed an explicit intention to amend a section to best suit his mission. This is what visionary leadership is made of. Democracy, as it were, should

not be just a popularity contest.Leading up to the vote, there

was an imminent limited time frame that led to the compression of this exercise and the striking off others as was the case with the

recess break. This can be pinned down to the one week closure of Athi River campus by an order from the Senate, on February 2. The incidences that triggered this decision were ostentatious as students staged a sit-in. The dissatisfaction that bubbled up had filtered through from August Semester 2013 when students locked the main gate to the school on December 6. Buses ferrying day scholars and staff, personal vehicles could not leave the campus, until around 8 pm.

A flip through history pages shows no record of general conduct among Daystar University students of this extent. The bone of contention remained a special Infospot (newsletter published by the Corporate Affairs Department) release that announced a new policy to introduce a ‘fee-card’. By its nature, it was meant to facilitate early payment of school

By Walter WamBote

Daystar University has been outsourcing security services to ensure professional and efficient handling of the sensitive docket. Since the entry of G4S Security firm in 2005, there has been little concern over handling of the matter. Their seven year tenure was relatively smooth.

Enter Lavington Security on February 1, this semester. This was at a time of student unrest. It was quickly picked as an item of protest as students woke up to find new guards on the gate. Athi River campus closed down a

day later for a week.Over the same period,

former DUSA chair Moses Gichuho brought to fore Lavington as one factor of dissatisfaction among students during a live interview on The Trend, hosted by NTV Presenter Larry Madowo. However, Mr. Gichuho did not convincingly point out the bone of contention on what was exactly the problem with the tendering process that led to installation of the Security firm.

According to Daystar University Chief Administrator Mr. Fred Ogodo, the security firm had 75% untrained

employees deployed to Athi River Campus. Similarly, most came from a single community and some with minimal literacy skills.

“There was need then, for a gradual replacement as part of the larger harmonization of the security system, to adjust to the University’s

needs.” Said Mr. Ogodo. It appears the firm was

not sufficiently staffed as section of the untrained guards deserted their posts as they were not prepared for this setting. Faced with vacant posts, the firm was compelled to cover. This included some guards working for 24 hours.

The above issues were discussed in a status meeting attended by the University’s administrators and Lavington Security representatives on Friday 9, last week in Athi River Campus.

Other issues discussed were relations between the employees of the firm and their supervisors. Some employees had expressed concerns of strained relations with their supervisors. This was blamed on the adjustment process which requires supervisors to verify the competence of a guard. Some guards claim they were harassed during this process that was allow appropriate allocation of posts.

It was passed in the status meeting that individual rights be

The Semester that bouyed Student Politics

DuSa 2014/2015 eleCtionS reSult (29.4.2014)

POST CANDIDATE(S) VOTED ‘YES’ VOTED ‘NO’

SPOILTVOTES

TOTAL CAST

Chairman Moses K. Njeri 607 148 54 809

Vice Chair & Sec. Academic Affairs Sarah Chome 686 50 73 809

Sec Gen Vincent Aketch 227- 61 809

Lydia Gichobi 521

Sec Sports & Recreation Orunga Ian 393- 74 809

Albert Masila 342

ISADU* Chairperson James Ndoto 598 68 143 809

ISADU Vice-Chairperson Raissa Kadende 126 12 28 166

Treasurer Jehoshephat Kilonzo 185- 61 809

Kevin Opata Opata 563

Secretary Social Welfare John Muinde 609 125 75 809

Secretary Clubs & Associations Mercy G. Kimani 641 87 81 809

ISADU Secretary Chisom Oswagu 107 14 45 166

ISADU Treasurer Alan Ndagano 121 13 32 166

TOTAL VOTES CAST : 809

SourCe: eCD

New sherIIf IN towN

Change of GuardThe Cost of Settling

A student prepares to get over the Daystar University Athi River main gate after it was locked following student unrests on December 6, 2013. PHOTO/ BONIFACE KASURA

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ENTRY 001|FRIDAY, 16 mAY 2014 DIbAjI jouRNAl (mAvoko EDITIoN)|3

By raCHel nYaKio

Access to health care is a fundamental right for every human being. However this has eluded many Kenyans, more so Kinanie Ward residents. Bordering Athi River town Ward, Kinanie ward is located the Machakos County. Most of the ward’s natives are from the Akamba community.

One of the community’s tradition is naming children after the nature or circumstance they were born in. A name like ‘Nzila’ is common among the Kamba. It’s a girl’s name which translates to ‘one born by the roadside’. Another is ‘Nzyoka’ a boy’s which means ‘he has

returned’. That is because they were born after the death of the one born before them.

Child mortality is still a prevalent case in the community. According to a new research done by the Devolution Ministry, 425 women die annually while giving birth in Machakos County. This can be attributed to poor healthcare services.

Speaking to Margaret Mutinti, a mother of two who resides in Daystar University community area, the closest place for the children and herself to access healthcare

services is Athi River town or all the way to Machakos Town. The distance is a problem for her and other mothers due to the cost of transport.

Kinanie Ward Representative, Ms Cecilia Mbinya, promised to build a clinic in the Daystar University area last year December. She commissioned a new at Kinanie area recently, but the distance from the Daystar area still remains a challenge. The closest they can access medicine is a chemist shop located behind the Daystar Administration Police Post. But it can only prescribe treatment

for complicated illness save for painkillers.

Speaking at the launch of ambulances and a community hospital, Machakos Governor, Alfred Mutua spoke about his plan to upgrade existing health centres as well as build new community hospitals.

First time mothers are referred to Machakos Level 5 Hospital to cater for chances of complications during birth. This is because it is sufficient and equipped enough to handle complications.

Mothers in this community can only hope and wait till healthcare is conveniently accessible.

commodity. It may take time to supply

clean water to the vast ward that stretches from Kinanie, Kimongo, Daystar University community to Makutano area. Still the question begs what are your plans to address this problem? Do you plan to sink bore holes, pipe water or launch water harvesting programs? What is your

timeline?As a semi-arid, registering

low amount of rainfall annually, there is poor yields in both crop and livestock farming. However, projects undertaken by diligent Kinanie Ward representatives has shown that it is indeed possible to farm through irrigation. I suggest that you arrange for agricultural seminars and workshops with farmers

and experts to explore this possibility. Such a platform could raise ideas on raising food security in your ward.

Another critical issue that seeks attention is education in this Ward. Currently, the total number of Public Primary schools in the Ward are less than five. In a Ward with a population of about 30,000 people, there should be more. There’s only Daystar Mulandi Primary School and Kinanie Primary School for the areas, about five kilometres apart. It is not hard to spot pupils walking for long distances to school to Athi River, which is a better destination with several public primary schools in the area. It’s weary to cover these distances and a strain on the parents too. Time for learning wasted. This usually reflects on K.C.P.E. results.

I hope you are coming into terms with such realities and that you have a well thought out solutions to each concern. Remember this article is based on Governance and not Politics, therefore I least expect any political aspersions. I’d hope to hear from you, preferably through this platform as I wish you the best in your quest to change the lives of people in this Ward.

open letter

Mothers and healthcare well-beINg

By JaCoB o. ogot

Hello Ms Cecilia Mbinya, my dear

Ward Representative? It’s been over a year since your election as Kinanie/Mathatani Ward Rep. My chances of congratulating you on the victory have remained slim. But with the chance of this platform, Dibaji, I can hope on reaching out to you. First, let me say congratulations for your hard earned victory. In the same spirit, I thank the management Dibaji giving me this opportunity to share with you my views.

I introduce myself as one of your concerned electorates. My interest is on Governance in Kinanie Ward. To begin our discussion Ms Mbinya, I remind you some of your pledges to the electorates of Kinanie/Mathatani Ward during the campaign period. Pledges are that you would ensure good infrastructure, security, quality education and zero tolerance to corruption.

One year on in office I

don’t know how far you have invested in these pledges. I can’t judge you on grounds that I am not privy to. However, I am interested on the plan you have in place to accomplish these development goals. Don’t you forget my Ward Representative, the good people of Kinanie elected you based on these pledges, which according to them espoused a formidable ‘policy manifesto’. It is a sign of faith from the electorates that they put you in office based on apt policies plans.

To me Ms Mbinya, these pledges are symbolic of a covenant between you and the electorates of this Ward. My knowledge of the Bible is that it takes two parties to make and fulfill a covenant. The electorates of Kinanie Ward have done there part in electing you. This implies the buck stops with you.

True to say, the Kinanie Ward is prone to perennial water shortages. A fresh water retails for Kshs. 25. Tap water remains a pipe dream and donkey carts and enterprising lorry tankers supply the precious

Dear kinanie Ward Rep

BABY BY THE WELL : A baby accompanys the mother as she fetches water from a fresh-water spring at the ‘rocks’. PHOTO/ ESTHER MAINA

4 | DIbAjI jouRNAl (mAvoko EDITIoN) ENTRY 001|FRIDAY, 16 mAY 2014

By Walter WamBote

“Hawa watu wagari wako na

madharau, hawaoni watu wa

pikipiki kama ni kitu.” (These motorists have no respect for motorcycles on the road). Stephen Nduva solemnly shares with his eyes on his little baby and his plastered left leg on a footstool.

It was around 0900hrs on the first day of March, a Saturday morning. Mr Nduva was approaching Green Park estate along Mombasa road on his way to Athi River town. A lorry was metres ahead and he was wanted to overtake. He put on the indicator and eased out. He was just halfway through when suddenly and without warning, the lorry turned right towards the estate ramming into Nduva and his motorcycle.

It left Nduva with a crack in the left knee that would take two months to heal. Luckily, the lorry driver promptly helped

rescue him. He also transported him to hospital and consequently assisted him with hospital bills.

Kase had just dropped a customer from Mlolongo at the Namanga road intersection commonly known as 39. He was heading to Athi River town cruising at around 65km/h when it happened. Vehicles were constantly coming from the opposite lane, but there was none in front of him.

His lane was straight and clear. It was not until a sleek white Mercedes approaching from opposite direction attempted to overtake the vehicle in front, getting into Kase’s way. At that speed, it was too late to avoid a head-on collision. “All I saw was white”. His Skygo motorcycle hit the Mercedes front bumper

sending Kase flying onto the wind shield.

He was bleeding from friction burns incurred in the arms, face and lips. He was also hit by a blunt

object on the right thigh and fractured the same leg, just below the knee. Fortunately, the police were not far and Mercedes driver stopped too.

Kase, who was at the time unconscious, was taken away by a police Land Rover. Hadn’t the twitching of his hand been noticed by the police, moments before they passed the nearest health centre, they would have taken him to the mortuary. He says that the accident could have

been avoided if the motorist was more vigilant while using the road. Similarly, in Nduva’s case, the accident could have too been avoided if the lorry driver could have used side and rear view mirrors plus the appropriate turning signals.

According to Kase, some vehicles which constantly use Mombasa road, especially sand delivery lorries, trailers and 14-seater matatus are very hostile to their colleagues on two wheels. Some do not give motorcycle riders space to overtake or even pass by. Others even use insults to undermine the worth of the motorcycle and its rider.

Early this month, motor cycle operators around Athi River town area convened a meeting with the area MP, Hon. Makau Kin’gora, at St Jude Church near Athi River Town. The main issue discussed was the possible upgrade of the roads leading to the town. The motorcycle riders were also advised to ensure their passengers put on a helmet and a reflector at night.

When the road is not enough for two

The road from Daystar University’s gate

to Mombasa Road is synonymous to a safari drive, with its serene view of the picturesque Lukenya Hills on the right, and grazing wildlife on the right. This notwithstanding, herders recently woke up to the site of a dead body lying in the bushes. The suit-clad body of a middle aged man appeared to have been strangled, according to witnesses, as it had a belt around the neck.

This is not the first time a body has been discovered on different parts of the road, with reports of four other incidents since 2004. Some have labelled the area a ‘dumping site’.

- Dibaji Writer

body of man found dumpedfees. But the

restrictions it contained, barring access to any services from the University prior to its possession appeared too stringent among some quarters of students.

The former DUSA government led by Mr. Moses Gichuho was reeling from a semester of dismal performance in student representation, especially a Fun Day (November 16, 2013) that was marred by disorganization. Sighting a chance for redemption, they latched on the cause actively rallying students to protest. This was followed by a spate of ‘failed dialogues’ and lack of consensus between DUSA and the administration. The final stroke was disruption of University affairs on February 2, which resulted

in closure the Campus for a week. This seems to have been an antidote. As classes resumed, pockets of resistance arose but were swiftly swallowed by a rat race. The first instalment was almost due for some, class assignments overdue and the first CAT was about the corner. DUSA was quietly re-instated after their suspensions were lifted.

Though seemingly settled, it is not clear how issues highlighted in the protests were addressed. It is also worth of note that the return policy after the lost week for every student was signing and agreeing to desist from such conduct and a declaration of faith. Let’s hope the cause of proper student representation was not lost in that week.

preserved despite the situation facing the firm.

Mr. Ogodo confirmed that two security officers have in the process been relieved of their duties. A supervisor had been suspended pending investigation, but she was later reinstated after no fault was found.

He also noted, “Lavington Security have adjusted fairer than G4S Security before them, what is happening now happens to most security firms while settling in a new environment.”

The Dean of Students, Mr. David Thuku, confirmed that concerns had been raised about the firm but none affected the students directly. He also noted progress in adaptation on the part of the firm.

Commenting on this story, Lavington Security Site Supervisor Athi River Campus, Joshua Gaetano said, “My main objective is to safe guard the campus and to make sure everyone feels safe especially as we approach the Graduation Ceremony in June.”

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stUDeNt represeNtatIoN New sherIff IN towN

ENTRY 001|FRIDAY, 16 mAY 2014 DIbAjI jouRNAl (mAvoko EDITIoN)|5

Only a system is able to suppress

a system

FREE VERSE

Who will cry for us?

When our eyes have no more tears

When terror as a thief visits us

While sorrow like hooves trample us

Who will bargain for us?

When our pockets shrink with emptiness

When our custodians engulf the coffers

While paupers beg, turns to the graves

Who can satisfy us?

Who are of bottomless bellies

Whose appetites fashioned from starved tummies

While survival is for the rich ruthless

Who will advocate for us?

When cosmetic truth appease us

When president and pastor alike swindle us

While police clobber freedom and rights with guns

Who will listen to us?

When our voice; drowned in a thousand thunder rumbles

When the listener talks and talker not a word mumbles

While repeated lamentations now too heavy for our lips.

• WALTER WAMBOTE.

the writer is the stone the builders rejected

(unpublished)Time wasted is never recovered,

With all due respect, time waits for no man

Stitch in time saves nine,

At this particular point in time,

Time only fears the pyramids of Egypt.

Time fears only the pyramids of Egypt.

Work of men loyal to Pharaoh,

Stone tablet that transcends time,

Time only fears the pyramids of Egypt.

Gone are the days, months and years,

But there is always time,

Ignorant say there is not time,

It is better late than never,

Time is not a respecter of man,

At this particular point in time

Time only fears the pyramids of great Egypt.

Time only fears the pyramids of great Egypt.

Part of mother Africa the cradle of mankind

Planning before time is wisdom of prudent man,

Being on time and in preparation

But it is high time to recall that,

At this particular point in time,

Time only fears only the pyramids of great Egypt.

• MKNM. KAGICHU.the author of the knowledge that grows, chief alchemist of diction and founder of universal knowledge.

Licking wounds

I've been spying on you like a CIA agent on a FB wall,Analyzing what's on your mind by reading your timeline,

You entered the matrix by giving us your email address and telephone,All your moves and transactions can now be tracked with loyalty and credit cards.

You willingly signed contracts, allowed us to enter your privacy,Accepted to leave your life under scrutiny in clouds or a modem.You will soon understand that science fiction has become reality;

We are working on a generation of clones which will be mentally and financially enslaved.Your daily life data stored in our servers, you’re more than a customer;

We know your salary, tastes and can therefore forecast sales, Our subsidiary companies are regularly sending you tailored advertisements,

We also sponsor celebrities to promote our products and trends. We are watching you closely like a big brother from another mother,

You made the right choice, selfies on social media speak for themselves,Your subconscious mind is easily available online it’s better than your fingerprints,

It will take time for you to understand you’re the twenty first century digitalized slave.• Patrick adholla

the writer is a self-published author of the book ‘Panther’s Diary’, an anthology of hard-hitting heart-felt poems. He is currently working on his second book.

1984 SCIENCEgo

t wor

ds?

dibaji

.pub

@gm

ail.c

omFICTION REALITY MATRIX

- dr wilson chiko

ENTRY 001|FRIDAY, 16 mAY 20146 | DIbAjI jouRNAl (mAvoko EDITIoN)

By Daniel maCHaria

Poverty and u n e m p l o y m e n t

represents a major of economic injustice against the Kenyan youth. This is because they lack innovativeness, credit access and most importantly, entrepreneurship training. Kenyan labor force is comprised of youth between 16-35 and who are openly unem-ployed, (ILO, 2007). The solution to this problem is promotion of entrepreneurship among the youth for self employment.

Complaining on the lack of jobs and doing nothing about it is futile. In the job market, one has to be competent. That means one has to be unique to stand out from the crowd. Some have brilliant ideas which are swept down due to lack of resources and opportunity for them to actualize them. To overcome this they should be thinkers who solve nib problems at the bud with new, better ways rather than preserving the old.

This is especially the case in a world of infor-

mation technology and communication.

Credit access has for a long time been a challenge but the Jubilee Government is rolling out a platform to balm this handicap. Provision of entrepreneurship funds is now being piloted at con-stituency level.

Youth should take that initiative by applying for the Uwezo Fund and venturing into viable businesses. The government has come up with a preferential scheme; it has reserved 30% of its entire procurement to

youths, women and persons with disability. Youths should take on this opportunity to pursue the dream of self-reliance.

E n t r e p r e n e u r s h i p training and business development is another challenge to youth unem-ployment. Forums to train the youths on how to invest and spend wisely on the government funds; help them get out of unemployment problem once and for all. Every youth group in the country should have professional advisors who should mentor them. They should train them on how to invest in productive forces; do follow up and advise them on the best ways to repay their loans as well as keep their business growing.

In conclusion, a practical activity is needed to solve a theoretical problem. The first thing for youth to do is to realize that youth entrepreneurship is the only way out of this problem.

Seek for information and ask what we don’t understand. Information is power. Only we are capable of determining our destiny.

but first, who are we? Dibaji is a community publication in the form of a journal. We aim to be the voice of the voiceless, to enlighten and give food for the soul - a fountain of thought and positivity. Thus, it is capable of nourishing the Daystar University Community and Mavoko at large, in a language they can understand and a tongue they can relate.

Also, it is a platform for expression on any issue with an enlighting touch and preferrably much insight.

As a word, Dibaji is a Kiswahili noun with several meanings. One of them is ‘Good style in writing’. As writers, we’d prefer that comes first. The other is ‘utangulizi’ translating to a ‘preview of things to come’.

As such, Dibaji is an approach to community media through an alternative platform that is tailored to provoke positive thought. The tagline Soma inasemaje is a nudge to engage it, as it aims to promote a reading culture, and more so one that puts their stories on record. More so, this medium seeks to promote cohesion through the re-examining of our Kenyan identity, and Africa at large. Citizens of the world too.

Mavoko constituency, is a microcosm with great future prospects and therefore ripe to explore this possibility. With the media undergoing much scrutiny and on the spot to be the watchdog, Dibaji is open to constructive engagement.

May all the conversations and images on Dibaji enlighten us!

We, the youth

CoMMeNtarY

To overcome this they should be thinkers who solve nib problems at the bud with new, better ways rather than preserving the old.

Who will tell our stories...

editorial

In this December 17, 2013 picture, turn-boys and drivers take to the street blocking traffic along Mombasa road in Mlolongo to protest what they called high-handness by the police

PHOTO/ MULLY MATEVU

Dibaji Crew

Publisher: Felix miring’uEditor-in-Chief: Walter Wambote

Copy Editor: jacob ogotExecutive Secretary: lucas mully

Business Development: Daniel WanjohiDistribution Manager: kennedy minaro

Research & Records: Florence NgugiLayout & Design: kenyan Coffee

ENTRY 001|FRIDAY, 16 mAY 2014 DIbAjI jouRNAl (mAvoko EDITIoN)|7

comment

By Walter WamBote

If I was not a Christian, I would have cared little of what I keep

seeing and hearing in the media. Pastor does this, pastor does that. Preacher caught doing this, preacher found doing that. Atrocities committed, unimaginable accusations exposed countlessly in national and international media of some clergy preaching fresh water, yet imbibing matured wine. But am a Christian, hence, I shall care. Yet, I will not give my opinion, but briefly decipher Scripture, the foundation of Christianity as a religion, to engage this abnormality.

Matthew 24:11-12 states, “And many false prophets will appear and will lead many people astray. Sin will be rampant everywhere, and the

love of people shall grow cold.” Jesus said this as the last sign of the end of the world. I cannot judge what is wrong from the right, but I can tell when things are getting cold especially love.

I have noted there are more divorce cases in this generation than that of our parents, even more single parenting than never before. Even now, tempers are high and the debate rages on same sex relations and marriages.

Even international religious leaders trap themselves and their flock to such, others forgetting about the clear sins of Sodom and their repercussions, commit sodomy. The term mpango wa kando and its meaning and technicalities are no longer anything to hide. They advertise products to ensure the safety of those who

practice it during prime time news.

Indeed if the flock has problems, the shepherd is in more trouble. In this such times, pastors are caught in camera wallowing in compromising situations in broad daylight, committing sexual and social atrocities instead of offering spiritual nurture.

Christ especially in Matthew 23 says many harsh word against Pharisees and teachers of the law all who were spiritual leaders and figures at the time. In verse 27 and 28 He says “Hypocrites! You are like white washed tomb stones; beautiful

from the outside but filled with dead people’s bones and all sorts of impurity.”

The name Pharisee means separated one or loved of God. Ironically He who said He was the son of God, chose categorically to use hypocrites, blind guides, brood of vipers in broad day light, as more appropriate to refer to them, yet, they did not raise a word.

Could it be because they had been guilty of the above attributes all along? This interpret to misrepresentation, inability to lead and off springs of he who manifested himself in Eden as a serpent.

If such could have happened at the time of Jesus, could history be repeating itself? My high school biology teacher who was also an expert in history said this countless times, “…we learn from history, that we learn nothing from history”.

New breed of shepherds

By aBigael mutHoni

Sweet is the stage where a child is not old enough to

rebel on what you think is best for them. As they grow older, they are more aware of their environment. Thus begins the challenge!

As a parent, it hits you that the child you had around the house is now an ‘adult’. What happens is change of administration concerning their limits mostly met with resistance.

I should say this is something every parent should be prepared for. It is no strange thing when a child answers back at you or finds you the worst parent at that time. Question is; how do you handle that?

It is wise to know exactly what gets their attention in order to know how to approach them. This creates a suitable atmosphere for you to boost their confidence. You should

get to know who your teenager associates with as monitor their performance at school.

Often I hear parents say their children are too much to handle. They do not understand what happened to their little ‘princess and prince’. This is only a stage and change is inevitable. A parent therefore needs to adjust accordingly to help them pass through successfully.

In our society, most parents have become ‘too busy’ for their children. They are caught up in their careers. By the time they get home, the teenager is asleep or in most cases busy in their rooms watching movies or glued to social websites.

As we all know, the Internet has its pros and cons. This could either lead to corrupting their minds or destroying their morals. This brings me to my other basic point.

Raising a teenager entails once in a while sitting down

with them and letting them open up to you. It involves mentoring and keeping contact with your child. It will make the more willing to confide in you on what they are going through.

Make them aware of their sexuality. Most teenagers a times end up dropping out of school due to early pregnancies disrupting their education. At this stage, they should it is wrong to be involved in any sexual activities. This will to a larger extent help get rid of ignorance and show them the need to be concentrating more on their education.

Parents should ensure that they struggle to help them reach better horizons in discovering their potential.

Raising a teenager should challenge us to be better in our co-ordination skills. It takes combined efforts. You never know; you might be having a future president in your house.

Raising a teenager:

The basics

The name Pharisee means separated one or loved of God.

Indeed if the flock has problems, the shepherd is in more trouble.

ENTRY 001|FRIDAY, 16 mAY 20148 | DIbAjI jouRNAl (mAvoko EDITIoN)

Imagine much you’d fork to have a safari drive in the Mara, a local safari club would suffice as an avenue to pursue this opportunity. Are there government restrictions concerning such a foray into enjoying our wildlife? Well, we have the Machakos County government to consult on pursuing a local tourism activity. The arrangement could create employment as it expands to allow for tourists from elsewhere.

Besides a safari drive or walk, Mavoko still has a lot to offer. Located on the expansive Athi-Kapiti plains, you only need to climb rocks that dot foot of the Lukenya hills to take in the sprawling view. Once, wildlife roamed these plains. Now, at night, you can see how human settlement is encroaching the area in form of city and industry lights.

Rock-climbingFrom planes taking off

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (some argue it’s

within Mavoko) the Mavoko rocks, themselves a marvel in about their formation and arrangement, offer the most vantage view of Mavoko. They offer a chance to many to unwind. Most of them are fairly accessible. For the daring kind, there was once a rock-climbing club whose existence has not been audible lately. Enthusiasts are needed to swing a similar venture into life with the appropriate gear and offer a chance to local residents and others from beyond a chance to dare the devil. For the more daring, you can scale the

rocks Spiderman. The high temperatures

during the day do not go to waste. Rocks retain the heat such that, at night, you can lie on them comfortably and get your Galileo on. Mavoko has one of the most expansive skylines you’d come across and budding stargazers are in for a treat.

Bike hiringA bicycle is one of the most

efficient zero-fuel means of personal transport. Already, there are several Mavoko residents, Daystar University students and lecturers who use the means to navigate the area. It’s a noble idea that could be extended to involve those who don’t own one. A bike hiring service would offer a chance to transverse the area, to exercise and in the long run, bike-races in the area to raise awareness and bring the community together. The absence of heavy human and vehicle traffic makes this venture ideal.

Catch a fishTeach a man to fish and a

weekend plan is made. Well, almost. The seasonal river known as ‘Mto wa Mawe’ runs through the Kinanie Ward. It thus known for its unusual presence of rocks, large and small alike. After short or long rains that fall on Mavoko at different times of the year, before the river runs dry, a section of it is trapped in a dam near Athi River, X km from the Daystar Community village.

It offers a perfect picnic spot to camp over and catch lunch. Among the fish available on the dam are mud fish, Tilapia and Kamongo. Fishing equipment? You can purchase a fishing rod and line at Athi river market. What’s more, there are local residents who can make arrangements for a homemade line and offer fishing lessons as well.

Get your fitting gear and take advantage of the opportunities Kinanie/Mathatani Ward offers!

Take a break, lift your spirit, think business

By DiBaJi Writer

You may not be hard-pressed to overhear

a Daystar student express exasperation as they describe the unmistakable bleakness the Mavoko sun delivers. Coupled with white sandy soil that reflects the heat, you may be forgiven for feeling like a bun in the oven. Not to mention the dust. Whereas they could be cumbersome to movement during the day, there’s a lot of beauty to absorb when the temperatures deep. And dig out a coin too, if it piques your entrepreneurial bone.

However, this requires one to dust their adventure boots.

Safari walk-on byDid you know the zebras,

wildebeests and gazelle you spot are same involved in the Great Mara Migration, itself one of the greatest wonders of the world? Considering the human settlement and Lukenya hills, this is the furthest the animals trod on this side.

enterprise

Rocks retain the heat such that, at night, you can lie on them comfortably and get your Galileo on

Locals fish at the KMC Dam, locally known as the ‘hippo dam’ in the Kinanie Mathatani. PHOTO/ FELIX MIRING’U

ENTRY 001|FRIDAY, 16 mAY 2014 DIbAjI jouRNAl (mAvoko EDITIoN)|9

A turban is a kind of headwear based on cloth that winds around the head. Traditionally, it is worn by men as a part of n a t i o n a l dress. The tradi t ion s t a r t e d in South A s i a , N o r t h Africa, the horn of Africa and parts of the Swahili Coast in Kenya.

It also has religious significance especially among Muslims significant in ceremonies and occasions as a sign of valor or peace. Turbans are worn by women to help carry water and protect the hair. It is also a symbol of beauty.

In the 21st century, women wore turbans and head scarfs as a fashion statement. Such, had different patterns, ways of styling it, fabric, stripes, lengths and coloration. These days’ fashionistas want to be unique and unpredictable when discovering different styles to complement their personal look.

NormTurbans have become a norm

during fashion events on the runway in catwalks and fashion markets like I observed at the Nairobi fashion market and Nairobi fashion week. I however, felt obliged by duty, to share the different kind of ways to wear them, as well as on what occasion suit best, from casual attire to the runway and back.

Turbans that are fully wrapped around your head are best worn during festivals, where culture is much appreciated. You can also wear one to a wedding. You would have to be seated at the back of the room not to obstruct anyone’s view. For images on different styles of wearing a turban visit my site at houseofvirgody.tumblr.com.

• MELODy CHEPTOO Vintage girl stuck in between the 50's, 80's, 90's and today. lover of a colourful. Soulful. artistic life. Kenyan girl and then the world.

By DiBaJi Writer

Don Dulo aka Poppa Don is an Independent

recording and performing Hip Hop artist under The Umbrella Grey Hound Fortune.

The Ex-Daystarian double major ( Communication and Community Development) is promising as to having the biggest voice in the industry raps fluently in Dholuo, English & Swahili. He describes his routine as Afro-lyricism which is a school of though that encourages return to ones roots in mind, spirit and way of living. Apart from the entertainment aspect, Poppa Don expresses deep affiliation to this school of thought through his music & writing.

Grey Hound 1 (The Manifesto) released late 2012 , was his first attempt at the music scene. Though not the most significant of his works, It gave him the litmus test to gauge his talent & package it for a greater campaign.

In July 2013, he released A Track Katidagi Katiyie done in Half Luo & English, translated as (Hate it or Love it)/(upende-Usipende). The track to date is on rotation in Kisumu where it received much applause after poppa Don’s Campaign in the regions main Clubs.

After, Poppa Don Took a short break to experiment with his skill, secretly recording and networking with contemporaries in the music business.

It is in January 2014 that he hinted the possibility of a second Mixtape & yes, He confirms that April 30th is that date. Poppa will be

releasing Grey Hound 2.0 (Shortcut to Distinction) live in a Hip Hop show hosted by a widely listened Radio Station.

Poppa Says music has been a part of his life from when he can remember. His parents had scores of Lp’s that ranged from the 80’s funk, Congolese& Luo Benga to South African sound & gospel music. His pre teen years were marked by intercultural interactions having grown up in a theological college that housed people from different African countries that came to study theology while shielding themselves from the political t u r m o i l in their countries.

artsceneTREND

PoPPa Don tRi-LinguaL WizaRD

Don raps fluently in Dholuo, English & Swahili.

Poppa Don

How to wear a turban

ENTRY 001|FRIDAY, 16 mAY 201410 | DIbAjI jouRNAl (mAvoko EDITIoN)

By Walter WamBote

If Karanga was a goat or cow, his father often said, I would

have sold him a very long time ago and would not care even for a piece of steak. His mother did not have many words for him. In fact, she needed not say a word. The enormous beating she unleashed on this lad spoke for its self. While Karanga’s loud wailing and lamentations echoed his mother’s sentimental feeling

about his behavior. Well, this guy Karanga

was not the most wanted, neither was he the devil on earth, but he was a very peculiar individual with excessive character deficiency. He was of average height, more of black than dark in complexion. He wore an ugly face more of personal desire than naturally and his big eyes complimented his small manners. His handsomeness though rare, emerged when

the other gender emerged, his manners too, but only when the company lasted. He didn’t have a brother or a sister, he was more of a big brother to himself, so we can say he didn’t need any.

He loved to play and believe me, he played hard. He would even twist the rules a bit, just to accommodate a bit of cruelty. He was in love too with violent games like chobo ua, yes that was before play stations engulfed the raw fun. Indeed, in those days, anything that wore shorts would be found running after tires, bicycle rims, twisting wires to toy cars and running after anything round. Of these and others Karanga was king, undisputedly.

But as life proves indefinitely, none excels in

everything. When classroom matters came calling, Karanga was an academic dwarf, fair and square. The kind his mother used to say take others to school; to fill classrooms, school buses and fill positions which real students would benefit and lead. And as a result homework was an uphill task for him. Yet he was so socially strategic that he ensured he had an excellent homework doer, a bright one for that matter, in his inner circle.

Every school day morning he would borrow the book from the bright friend, being a photocopier by habit and with above average sized eyes the job was done in amazing speed. In the exam room, since he didn’t have the luxury of android technology, his zooming skills and eagle sight proved fairly dependable.

Now this day, his father, a thorough and notorious looking man, as the apple never falls far from the tree, called Karanga by a name he gave him from childhood, “Kasaitani! Uka”.

WHERE iS KaRanga

By felix miirng’u

In a hoarse voice he manages, “those were those the days.”

He shifts and delicately rests his frail frame on a walking stick as the curious freshman looks on. She recoils in disbelief at how certain things were possible ‘back when’.

Old is gold, they say. Indeed, time is golden you’ve beenhas been on campus since, well, not since Daystar got a charter... you get the point.

See, there was time trade in ivory trade was rife. I give you my word it was not exchanged

for cowrie shells. Also, before you dial the anti-poaching police, no rhinos were harmed in this exchange.

There was a time, lab 3, 4 and 5 was awash with unwanted printing papers as the printer was a terminal for all. Nowadays you feed the printer with a PIN and your work is duly printed. In the days of yore, you brought your own paper. At one bob a piece, you’d load them on to the printer’s tray, then a white relic. The catch was that anyone sending work to the printer could use your papers.

Woe unto you if someone sent 100 pages of disjointed web page content. Scenes of a dejected student tearing apart the printed work were common as almost futile to trace the culprit.

‘White ivory’ was a trade of printing papers. You could retail a ream at about Sh 200. A buyer was assured making the trade lucrative. Selling five reams could sort out a weekend.

Even so, we mull our present situation we ought to appreciate strides made. Everyone’s story is different.

The first indicator you’ve lived through the times is the class list. If a food chain, you’ve ‘eaten’ your way to the top. Also, if you can relate several student regimes,

comfortably dissecting them to their strategies. Non-student community members know you on first name basis and you know about half of them.

When you’ve seen comrades come and go with others fell by the wayside, your will oughtn’t waiver but grow stronger.

If you’re to ever get to this point, never get carried away and don’t be rigid too. We all begun a race and the winner remains uncertain. The Swahili say ‘kutangulia si kufika’. We’re not in a competition as such, what really matters is developing personal capacity. Knowing yourself and understanding others is the most enlightening thing I’ve learnt, regardless of where you are in life.

When we traded in ‘White Ivory’

as it was

OLD SCHOOL DIARIES

He wore an ugly face more of personal desire than naturally and his big eyes complimented his small manners.

PHOT

O/ F

ELIX

MIR

ING

’U

To bE CoNT’D IN THE NEXT ISSuE!

ENTRY 001|FRIDAY, 16 mAY 2014 DIbAjI jouRNAl (mAvoko EDITIoN)|11

darubini

A boy collects firewood in Daystar Off-campus area, near ACK Girl’s hostel. PHOTO/ FELIX MIRING’U

An ‘Anonymous’ student displays his perspective during the student sit-in on December 6, 2013.

AFRICAN BEAUTY: A student dances representing Nigeria during the Culture Week Gala Night. PHOTO/ JOHNWAHOME.BLOGSPOT.COM

A student rapper brings the house down during the Culture Week Gala Night. PHOTO/ JOHNWAHOME.BLOGSPOT.COM

A student in ‘Shady wear’ during the Culture Week. PHOTO/ ESTHER MAINA

Students pose during the SOEA dinner held at the Mavuno Church in Mavoko. PHOTO/ WALTER WAMBOTE

End of the road?

A dancer during the Culture Week Gala Night. PHOTO/ JOHNWAHOME.BLOGSPOT.COM

Poppa Don tri-Lingual Wizard>> PAGE 9

ENTRY 001|FRIDAY, 16 mAY 2014m a v o k o e d i t i o n

soma inasemaje

Dibaji journal is a community-based publication, produced by student initiative. This Edition is a sample of the same. All rights Reserved.

CaptIvateD?

The warrior of light sometimes behaves like water, owing around the obstacles he encounters Occasionally, resisting might mean being destroyed, and so he adapts

to the circumstances. He accepts without complaint that the stones along the path hinder his way across the

mountains. Therein lies the strength of water: it cannot be shattered by a hammer or wounded by a knife. The strongest sword in the world cannot scar its surface. The waters of a river adapt themselves to whatever

route proves possible, but never forgets its one objective: the sea. So fragile at its source, it gradually gathers the strength of the other rivers it encounters. And, after a

certain point, its power is absolute.

- Paulo coehlo‘the Manual of the Warrior of light’

SHot oF inSigHt

GOT WIT? Send us a caption to this picture at dibaji.pub@gmail.com and we’ll publish it in our next issue.

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