page 4 siaya county hosts national nyikwa ramogi...

Tich Gi DongruokISSUE NO. 7 (2ND JUNE 18 - 30TH JUNE 2018) Get to Know Your CountySiaya is looking up to you-Dr. Okumbe tells the new county executive members. Page 4

Several leaders led by Kisumu Governor Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o and his Siaya counterpart His Excellency Cornel Rasanga presides over second annual Got Ramogi Festival at Got Ramogi in Bondo, Siaya County- Page 3, 11

NYIKWA RAMOGI WADWOG URU DALA-RASANGA

Siaya County Hosts National Commemoration of world sickle cell day

Page 7 County Government of Siaya joined the rest of the world in commemorating the World Sickle Cell Day, a day set aside by The United Nations Organization in 2008 and marked annually to meditate on strides made in dealing with the disease. Siaya County hosted the national commemoration events under the theme of “Managing Sickle Cell Disease, Transforming Lives.”

Of the 45 counties earmarked to benefit from the World Bank Funded Kenya Urban Support Program targeted at rehabilitating all town centres and municipalities in Kenya except Nairobi and Mombasa at USD 300 million, Siaya County has become the very first to meet the primary threshold for funding followed by Nyandarua County in Central Region- SEE PAGE 8

WORLD BANK URBAN SUPPORT INITIATIVE

DEVELOPMENT PLANS PROGRESS FUN AND MORE

Ksh. 300 Million water project

His Excellency Cornel Rasanga, the Siaya County Governor had earlier signed a partnership agree-ment between the two parties allowing the KShs. 300 million water and sanitation project to run for 5 years effective 1st July 2018.SEE PAGE 9

28th June 2018

By Jerry Sando

His Excellency Cornel Rasanga Amoth, the Siaya County Governor, is in Nairobi to attend a two day “High Level Sugar Sector Consulta-tive Meeting” alongside other Governors, Senators & leaders from the Sugarcane belt as well officials from the National Government led by Agriculture & Irrigation Cabinet Secretary Hon. Mwangi Kiunjuri. Presentations from Publicly owned compa-nies including South Nyanza (SONY) Sugar Company, Chemelil Sugar Company, Nzoia Sugar Company, Muhoroni Sugar Company among others are expected to prominently

shape the discussions during this meeting. The meeting primarily aims at establishing a sugar sector roadmap that will guarantee sustainable capitalization of the industry, deal with the debt crisis in the industry, ensure cashflow to farmers and suppliers is consistent and restore efficiency in running the established sugar firms that are currently struggling. It is further expected that this gathering will find tentative solutions to remedy the current predicaments facing the sugar sector in the nation including the issue of contraband sugar now known as mercury laced. The National Government acknowledges the vital place of the sugar sector in realizing the Big 4 Agenda and Poverty reduction across

the county while the County Governments are keen on striking a balance between strategic partnerships (private investments) and maintaining public interest autonomy of these firms which will grant farmers the voice and influence on the future of these industries. The leaders from the Sugarcane Belt are calling for the complete ban on importation of sugar, to enable our local firms operate optimally. Other officials participating in this important discussions include the Agriculture Ministry Permanent Secretary Hon. Richard Lesiyampe, Governors from the Sugarcane Growing Zones in Kenya, Members of The Privatisation Commission and Officials from the Office of the Deputy President Hon. William Samoei Ruto.

BAN SUGAR IMPORTATION TO OPTIMIZE LOCAL FIRMS’ PERFORMANCE- SUGAR BELT GOVERNORS

“I urge the government and the assembly to scale up civic education especially to women and the youth, and tell the people about the importance of having such programmes as public participation so that they can make informed decisions.” -County Director of Communications Mr. Jerry William Ochieng

“The early pregnancy among girls that currently stands at 27% in the region must be reversed and that will be effective ifaddressed at the early stages especially at the Early Childhood Development stage.” -Siaya County First Lady H.E. Rosella Rasanga

“Following our performance on the implementation of the capacity building project for Financial Year 2016-2017, we have been awarded a further KShs. 46 million towards Capacity Building plans for Financial Year 2017-2018 by the World Bank. Our officers in the respective departments whose efforts have made this possible deserve accolades.” -Siaya County Deputy Governor H.E. Dr. James Okumbe

MOVERS AND SHAKERS ;WHAT THEY SAID...

CONTENTS To Advertise in this space, contact The Department of Communications, County Government of Siaya P.O. BOX 8 0 3, SIAYA, KENYA Email: - communication @siaya.go.ke

The County NEWSLETTER

“There can never be a culture as rich as the Luo culture as it has earned Nyanza Counties lots of revenue in tourists attraction, and as governors we will strive to support local tourism.” - Kisumu County Governor His Exellency Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o

County Progress a. Public Service and Administration b. Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries c. Education, Youth Affairs, Gender and Social Affairs d. Finance and Economic Planning e. Health and Sanitation f. Lands, Physical Planning, Housing & Urban Development g. Public Works, Energy, Roads and Transport h. Tourism, Culture, Sports and Arts i. Enterprise and Industrial Development j. Water, Irrigation, Environment and Natural Resources k. General Pictoriall. Poetry Corner

PILKA PILKA ZA MAONYESHO YA GOT RAMOGI

By Helen Nyanyuma

Hatimaye Makala ya pili ya maonyesho ya GOT RAMOGI yanayoandaliwa na serikali ya kaunti ya Siaya imewadia. Makala haya yatafanyika kutoka tarehe 28 JUNI hadi tarehe 30 JUNI.

Maonyesho hayo yatafunguliwa rasmi na gavana wa Siaya Cornel Rasanga Amoth siku ya juma nne 26 JUNI, akiandamana na naibu wake Dkt. James Okumbe, waziri wa utalii, tamaduni na michezo kaunti ya Siaya Dkt. Eliza-beth Odhiambo , pamoja na mawaziri mbalimbali , na maafisa kadhaa kutoka kaunti ya Siaya.

Siku ya juma tano basi watu kutoka maeneo mbali mbali wataunda meza zao za maonyesho wakisubiri siku maalum za sherehe hizo yaani tarehe 28 JUNI.Sherehe hii itaanza tarehe 28 JUNI na kongamano katika ukumbi wa chuo kikuu cha Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, mada ikiwa, discover Siaya, the land of heroes,the cradle of luo dispensation and the home of Obama.’

Watakaofanikisha siku hii ya kwanza ya maonyesho haya, ni prof. Benson Estambale, prof. Stephen Agon’g wote wa JOOUST wote wakiwa wenyeji, Gavana Cornel Rasanga, huku Gavana wa Kisumu Prof. Anyan’g Nyon’go akiwa mgeni wa heshima. Wengine watakaohutubia hadhara hiyo ni pamoja na spika wa bunge la Siaya mheshimiwa George Okode, prof. Bethwel Ogot, rais wa luo Willis Otondi na wageni wenye tajriba mbali mbali.

Sherehe zikifika katika kilele chake yaani siku ya pili, shughuli maalum zita-kuwa uundaji wa mlo zetu za kitamaduni, huku chakula kuu kikiwa samaki. Maakuli hayo yatatayarishwa kwenye ufuo wa Siungu. Kando na hayo, watu wataburudika na vinyuaji vya kitamaduni, mavazi na mitindo ya ujaluo, midundo na muziki zetu. Hayo yote yatafanyika usiku ambao utaitwa FISH NIGHT.

Hatima ya Makala haya itakuwa tarehe 30 JUNI kwenye ufuo huo huo wa Siungu, huku michezo ya mbio ya mashua yaani Boat Racing ikiwa shu-ghuli kuu mchana huo, siku hiyo itafika tamati kabisa na RAMOGI GALLA NIGHT huko KINGS CLUB, Bondo itakayoongozwa na mfawidhi Jalan’go yaani MC Jalas mwenyewe, huku wasanii mbali mbali watatumbuiza watuNyote mwaalikwa. Njooni tudumishe utamaduni wetu. Kosa uchekwe. ‘Duog uru dala Nyikwa Ramogi Ajwan’g’

NYIKWA RAMOGI WADWOG URU DALA-RASANGA TO THE LUO PEOPLE WORLDWIDE

26th June 2018

By Eric Omuombo

His Excellency Cornel Rasanga, the Siaya Governor, has asked the Luo Community and all other ethnic groups of Kenya to attend and participate in a three-day Ramogi Cultural Event at Ramogi Hills in Bondo Sub-County to get acquainted with divergent Luo cultures and taste traditional delicacies beginning Thursday through to Saturday this weekend.

The Governor while speaking during the pre-launch of the cultural event at the County Headquarters said the initiative will provide Luo Community especially those in the dias-pora and their children a unique opportunity to know, explore and protect our culture and dignity as a people.

“The event will help refresh the minds of the Luo Community on our rich way of life includ-ing our traditional delicacies, dances, fighting weapons. During the festival, we will aslo appre-ciate our heroes as explained by various experts in the Luo way of life,” said the Governor.

Flanked by the ten County Executive Commit-tee Members, top goverment officials and vari-ous sponsoring partners of the mighty festival, His Excellency said the Ramogi Festival that will host various exhibition points displaying scenes and items that promote tourism has been themed; Nyikwa Ramogi Wadwog Uru Dala loosely translated as; Let’s Come Back Home We the Descendants of Ramogi.

The event has attracted support and participa-tion of various partners including Cocacola, Dinstiction Hotel, Kenya Forestry, KCB bank, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science

and Technology, JAB (Manufacturers of wheat floor) among others whom the Governor used the opportunity to sincerely thank on behalf of the Siaya County peoples.

Already, scores of visitors have started stream-ing in Bondo town to book hotels and visit earmarked sites ahead of the annual tourism and cultural festival that begins on Thursday.

While addressing Siaya residents during the pre-launch event, County Tourism Executive Dr. Elizabeth Achieng Odhiambo made a rallying call to those in the diaspora to consider coming back home during these festivities.

“We are bringing people from all over the world to come and celebrate their origins because this is the cradle of mankind. Our culture is the origin of all cultures of the world,” said Dr. Elizabeth.

The Ramogi Cultural Festival is now an annual event incorporated in the County calendar of events under the Department of Tourism.

Some of the events to be futured during the three days’ event will include a symposium at The Jaramogi Odinga University under the theme of Cultural Heritage for Socio-Economic Capital while Distinction Gardens will host a supporting partners’ dinner with a cocktail of traditional delicacies.

Sporting activities like ‘Ajua’, Wrestling, Boat Racing at Siungu beach, Cultural fashion show and fish eating competition among others. Got Ramogi Galla night at Kings Hotel in Bondo is expected to be the climax of the cultural festival.

Kisumu Governor Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o will be The Chief Guest at the official opening ceremony later in the week with dignitaries of the Luo fiefdom led by The Right Hon. Raila Odinga expected to grace the three day event.

Tourism, Culture, Sports and Arts


SIAYA LOOKING UP TO YOU; DR. OKUMBE TO NEW COUNTY EXECUTIVES

13th June, 2018

By Calvin Awora

Siaya County Deputy Governor Dr. James Ouko Okumbe has emphasized to the newly sworn in County Executive Committee Members (C.E.C.Ms) on the importance of self

discipline and effective performance towards the growth of a new Siaya as the four take over their various offices.

Speaking during the official handing over/taking over ceremony at the County Government Headquarters, the Deputy Governor expressed his confidence in the appointees as talented, competent and a true reflection of the best of Siaya County.

The new County Executive Committee Members, bringing to a close the protracted nine months process, expressed their grati-tude to the Governor and his Deputy and promised to put their blood, sweat and tears in ensuring that Siaya County is a case study of excellence.

Reiterating the Deputy Governor’s sentiments, C.E.C.M for Governance and Administration, Mr. George Rubic encouraged his colleagues to prudently use their offices for the benefit of all. County Secretary, Mr. Dave Anyona instructed the new team to quickly develop awareness of all sections in their departments, that the necessary paper work is put in place and that most importantly, ensure all have a status report of all the Government projects every while.

Governance & Administration


TOWARDS UNIVERSAL PRIMARY HEALTHCARE

4th June 2018

His Excellency Cornel Rasanga Amoth participated in a World Bank-supported Transforming Health System Project (THS-UCP) meeting in Nairobi.

The five year project which is implemented jointly by the Ministry of Health and Council of Governors first became active on September 2016 and is to run up to September 2021.The project aims to improve utilization and quality of Primary Health Care (PHC) services

with focus on Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health Services.

In regards to responsive steps to achieve these, the project will undertake improving access to and demand for quality primary healthcare services, strengthening institutional capacity to improve utilization and quality of Primary Health Care services. Further the project will look into how to support cross-county and intergovernmental collaboration in the Counties health system.

Later, the Governor joined other Governors in a media briefing on Primary Health Care and give state of devolution address since its conception.

SENSITIZATION WORKSHOP FOR SENIOR COUNTY OFFICERS ON ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL SAFEGUARD SYSTEMS

21st June 2018

His Excellency Dr. James Okumbe, the Deputy Governor, Siaya County presided over the official opening of a Sensitisation Workshop on Environ-mental and Social Safeguard Systems for senior officials of County Government of Siaya.

The workshop is part of the activities planned under the Kenya Devolution Support Program funded by the World Bank and the Kenyan Government to strengthen devolution in Siaya County.

The Deputy Governor noted that Siaya County will endeavor to position itself strategically on environmental matters due to its centrality to the Sustainable Development Goals Framework and Kenya’s Vision 2030 projections.

“I am also pleased to inform this workshop that following our performance on the implementation of the capacity building project for Financial Year 2016-2017, we have been awarded a further KShs. 46 million towards Capacity Building plans for Finan-cial Year 2017-2018 by the World Bank. Our officers in the respective depart-ments whose efforts have made this possible deserve

accolades.” His Excellency noted.

The Deputy Governor also explained that this two day workshop should introspect with a view to improving the key results areas for implementation and get to know what exactly the County must put in place.

Participating in the workshop were the Siaya County Executive Committee Members, County Deputy Speaker Hon.Oduor Odongo and the County Chief of Staff Mr. Walter Okelo among other senior County Government officials.

Water, Environment & Natural Resources


SIAYA COUNTY JOINS THE WORLD IN BEATING PLASTIC POLLUTION5th June 2018

By Grace Adhiambo

As the world celebrated World Envi-ronment Day today, Siaya County

organized various activities to mark these celebrations. World Environment Day is a UNITED NATIONS marked day aimed at encouraging worldwide awareness and ac-tion for the protection of the environment.The global celebrations have been held since 1973 and have been cascaded to coun-try level with the National Environmental Management Authority providing sectoral leadership.

With this year’s theme being *BEAT PLASTIC POLLUTION* under the slogan *GREENING THE BLUE* the county celebrations at Bondo Town witnessed a huge turn out of the members of the public as both guests and residents couldn’t wait to take part in cleaning Bondo Town.

The celebrations at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Park kicked off at 9am despite the heavy rain downpour most of the morning. Chief Executive Committe Member for Pub-lic Works Hon.Benard Mboha who was The Chief Guest in his speech acknowledged the fact that plastic has been used far and wide for with disastrous effects on nature. He went on to caution that plastic has caused

more harm than good for it has chocked the environment since it is not biodegradable.‘Locally, poorly disposed nylon is ingest-ed by livestock leading to their death.This affects our economic ability and reduces income for our people. In Siaya the plastic paper bags are still in circulation and it is suspected that they come in through Uganda-Kenya border. Note that the fine for being in possession of these carrier bags is between KShs. 2 million and KShs. 4 million,’ the CEC noted.

He was accompanied by his fellow C.E.C’s Hon. Adrian Ouma in charge of Water, Environment and Natural Resources and Hon. George Rubiik in charge of Gover-nance and Administration.

Siaya County Commissioner Mr. Jacob Narengo who was also in attendance encouraged the County Executives to ensure that plastic bags along the beaches should

be removed. He asked that operations be carried out in major trading centres to ensure that traders do not continue using plastic papers against the directives of The National Environment Management Authority.

The Slogan *GREENING THE BLUE* is a commitment by the UN to ensure that all it’s programming and operations are socially and environmentally sustainable through: Sustainable Programme and Project Management, Sustainable Procurement and Sustainable Operations Management.

‘Our County must lead from the front in establishing this precedence of environmen-tal hygiene,’ noted the new CEC for Water and Environment matters Hon. Adrian Ouma. The County Government officials promised to work closely with all stake-holders and the National Government to improve Siaya County.

20th June 2018

By Communications Directorate

A 20yr old male came to Siaya County Referral Hospital with fever and bleeding from body orifices, after being sick at home and seeking treatment at a local health centre for

about one week. The patient died during treatment and samples taken to Kenya Medical Research Institute reveal the cause of death as Rift Valley Fever. Tests for Ebola, Marburg virus were NEGATIVE.

The victim (name withheld for privacy) was from Uriri Village, Kaugagi Udenda Sub location in Alego Usonga, Sub County in Siaya County.According to Dr. Omondi Owino, the acting Chief Officer in the Department of Health, County Government of Siaya, Rift Valley Fever is primarily a disease of livestock, affecting sheep and cattle. While it is very strange to have incidences in humans in our county, recent rains and floods would cause infective organisms to get to our area.

People are mainly infected by handling sick animals, either slaughtering or assisting animals during labor. The disease causes abortion in animals. The other mode of transmission from animals, which is relatively low, is by mosquitoes and other insect bites. The Department of Health and San-itation in the County Government of Siaya therefore encourage everyone not to directly handle sick animals, don’t slaughter them without alerting veterinary team, or our public health officers. Additionally, we encourage all Siaya County citizenry to use mosquito nets.

Anyone with a sick animal-mainly sheep and cows must report to nearest authorities immediately, and cases of abortions or loss of pregnancy in these animals MUST be reported too.

SIAYA COUNTY RIFT VALLEY FEVER ALERT

CONSIDER LIVESTOCK QUARANTINE IN WEST ALEGO: COUNTY GOVERNMENT ADVISED BY VETERINARY INVESTIGATORS

21st June 2018

By Jerry Sando

The Regional Veterinary Investigation Laboratory team of five from the Western Region Kericho Office has arrived in Siaya County this morning to investigate and recommend a Rapid Response Plan against Rift Valley Fever in the wake of revela-

tions that a patient died from related complications at the Siaya County Referral Hospital earlier in the week.

Led by Dr. Wamalwa, the team will be in Siaya for two days and will visit the areas perceived as affected thus far and will meet with various interest groups including meat inspectors and butchers. The outcome of their visit will be a Rapid Plan of Action complete with immediate recommendations on what who must do to prevent future spread of the potential virus.

Welcoming the team when they made a courtesy call at his office earlier today, Siaya County Secretary Mr. Dave Anyona approved their proposal to immediately quarantine livestock movement in the areas so far reported as affected and the suspension of livestock slaughter in the said areas. Mr. Anyona expressed the County Government’s committment to immediately act on the teams recommendations when availed.

Dr. Hezborn Awando representing The Director of Veterinary Services at The National Government noted that the disease was being reported in Siaya for the very first time and urged the County Government to regulate consumption of livestock related foods in burial and such public spaces in the short term. He noted that increased number of field staff would increase the speed of timely detection, reporting and sensitization of the public on related outbreaks.

Present at the briefing with the County Secretary were The County Executive Committee Member of Agriculture, Foods, Livestock and Fisheries Mr. Charles Ogada and Director of Veterinary Services in the County Government Dr. Gladys Oyoko among other government officials

Health and Sanitation


SIAYA COUNTY HOSTS NATIONAL COMMEMORATION OF THE WORLD SICKLE CELL DAY

19th June 2018

By Ambrose Odhiambo

The County Government of Siaya joined the rest of the world in commemorating the

World Sickle Cell Day, a day set aside by The United Nations Organization in 2008 and marked annually to meditate on strides made in dealing with the disease. Siaya County hosted the national commemoration events under the theme of “Managing Sickle Cell Disease, Transforming Lives.”

Led by the County First Lady Her Excellency Mama Rosella Rasanga, the commemoration started at the Siaya County Referral Hospital where she officially flagged off the proces-sion to Ahindi gardens where the major event was held.

In her speech Mama Rosella, while

noting that univeral health carewould help address the tribulations of sickle cell, also urged communities to come together to develop strategies that can empower sickle cell victims while reducing the impact of the scourge.

Her Excellency called for collabration between different partners and stakeholders in addressing the sickle cell menace to ensure that Siaya County and the country at large meets the sustainable development goals as well as eliminating harmful and wrong prejudices associated with sickle cell disease.

The County Executive Committee Member of Health Ms. Mary Omondi through her representative acknowl-edged the county government’s commitment towards the managment of the sickle cell disease throughvarious interventions. Amongst many

other programs, a lot of funds have so far been allocated towards the purchase of medicines used in management of the disease according to the Executive Member. Special clinics have been established within the County in the major health care facilities where the clients are regularly seen while diagnostics have also been promoted in the labora-tory for early detection of sickle cell disease. The County Government has also gone ahead to establish a blood donation drive within the county to increase access to safe blood.

The event which brought together members of the public and partners mandated with handling those suf-fering from the disease as well offered free sickle cell screenings and blood donation services to the public at the occasion.

FIRST QUARTER OF DRUGS CONSIGNEMENT ARRIVES

12th June 2018

By Ambrose Odhiambo

The Department of Health of the County Govern-ment of Siaya received drugs valued at KShs. 73 million of its purchase from MEDs in Nairobi. The

consignment which included drugs, non-pharmaceu-ticals and laboratory reagents are expected to last for at least four months after distribution to all health facilities in the county.

Speaking while receiving the delivery at the Siaya County Referal Hospital, Health County Executive Committee Member Ms. Mary Omondi assured the residents that the drugs will now be available in the health facilities and should be accessed free of charge. Flanked by the County Health Director Dr. Omondi Owino, Ms. Omondi Mary sounded a warning to the officers who may be planning to embezzle the drugs for private pharmacies that pros-ecution is awaiting them. She encouraged the citizens to be vigilant and report any such mischief for prompt action.

She further urged the citizens to effectively utilize the free services offered in health facilities and ensure that they get timely diagnosis of any illnesses before getting medication.

The consignment is broken down to KShs. 40 million for drugs, KShs. 20 million for non-pharmaceuticals and KShs. 13 million for lab reagents.



Education, Youth Affairs, Gender & Social Affairs


BETTER REMUNERATION FOR ECD TEACHERS FORSEEN IN THE 2018/2019 SIAYA COUNTY BUDGET

22nd June 2018

By Auscar Wambiya

Early Childhood Education Teachers with degree qualifications will from July 2018 earn KShs.15, 000.00 monthly salary from their current earnings of KShs. 10,000.00 and enjoy free health care under the County Government of Siaya sponsored National Hospital Insurance Fund scheme to help them concentrate on their primary chore of educating kindergartens.

According to Alego/Usonga Sub-county Eearly Childhood Develop-ment Coordinator Madam Benter Jacobs, the developed scheme of service will see teachers with Certificates and Diploma qualifications get KShs.10, 000.00 and KShs. 12,200.00 monthly salary respectively.

Speaking at her office in Siaya town, Madam Benter said all the County employed ECD teachers have been earning a flat rate KShs 10, 000.00 despite their varied academic qualifications.

“We have developed the Scheme of Service and the already employed teachers at various ECD centres county-wide will get a boost of their salarie as backdated from January 2018 to date,” she added.

“We are reviewing the education system scales in line with the new Constitution, which emphasises on early childhood education,” said Benter. She also noted that the county-government is committed towards addressing teacher’s shortages and constructing and equipping of ECD centres.

Mrs. Benter noted that the Department of Education had proposed in the 2018/2019 budget increased allocation of funds for further recruitment and better remuneration for the ECD teachers which will hopefully be earmarked accordingly.

“It is harder to teach toddlers than primary, secondary or university student and a strong foundation is the pillar of all other levels of education,” she said adding that the county government is taking steps to contain the exodus of teachers to other levels of education after further studies.

Benter explained that teachers with Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education, would also be considered for more competitive perks.

Notably, the number of graduate teachers teaching in nursery schools is rising steadily, an indication of competition in the profession.

BARACK OBAMA UNIVERSITY READY TO ROLL: SIAYA EDUCATION CEC MADAM OWINO

12th June 2018

By Eric Omuombo

The County Executive Committee Member in charge of Education in Siaya County, Madam Dorothy Owino says the proposed Barack Obama University in Siaya will open it’s doors to student admission beginning this September 2018 now that all the odds relating to it’s opening have hirtherto been surmounted.

Ms. Owino who was part of the County Executive Committee Members inspecting various facilities at the 56 acre Agricultural Training Centre in Siaya which is the proposed site for The Obama University said the hostels, dining hall, classes, library, laboratory, innovation centre, lecture halls and furniture are now ready for occupa-tion. The university has been named thus in honor of The First African American President of The United States of America who traces his roots to Siaya County.

“The September 2018 in take is unstoppa-ble. We have inspected the facilities and found them suitable to host students,” said

Ms Owino.

Madam Owino was accompanied by fellow members of the Siaya Executive including Eng. Adrian Ouma (Lands), Hon. George Rubik (Governance), Hon. Charles Ogada (Agriculture), Hon. Odak Mboha (Roads) and Chief Officer Mr. Joseph Omondi (Governance).

The Siaya Executive through it’s Housing Department has welcomed the notice from National Government seeking to compel the the national government officers occu-pying the 13 staffs houses at ATC to vacate before 28th June 2018. The occupants of the buildings have received the notice and are expected out within June 2018.

Governor Cornel Rasanga has consistently spearheaded efforts to launch the university which will see a major boost to the local economy and ensure higher learning is widely accessible to the local folks upon it’s take off any time now. These efforts come at a time when President Obama could be visiting his ancestral village of Kogelo within days.

Water, Environment & Natural Resources


UYOMA OPINION STAKEHOLDERS ENDORSE A KSHS. 300 MILLION WATER PROJECT BY SIAYA COUNTY GOVERNMENT AND PARTNERS

15th June 2018


The County Government of Siaya in partnership with Dorcas Aid International, Maji Milele and North Gem Community Development Programme held Public Participation Forum at Madiany to sensitize the Uyoma Opinion Leaders on the public Private Partnership pilot scheme on rehabilitation and augmentation of East Uyoma Community water scheme. His Excellency Cornel Rasanga, the Siaya County Governor had earlier signed a partner-ship agreement between the two parties allowing the KShs. 300 million water and sanitation project to run for 5 years effective 1st July 2018. The pilot phase of the project involve both East Uyoma community water project (Rarieda sub county) and Naya community project (Ugunja sub county). The County will contribute 10 percent of the total project cost whereas the Netherlands Government shall give 50 percent of the funds in terms of grant. Dorcas Aid International shall provide grant of 20 percent whereas Maji Milele company shall provide the remaining 20 percent.

Some of the salient features of this “Public Owned Privately Managed” arrangement will be purchase of water pumping equipment, construction of major reservoir tanks, replacement of transmission pipelines and installation of pre-paid water meters. These will increase pro-duction and enhance efficiency of water such that the non revenue water in those schemes is expected to drop from about 50 to less than 20 percent.

The public participation forum was graced by Eng. Adrian Ouma the CECM for Water, Envi-ronment and Natural Resources, Hon Otiende Amollo MP Rarieda, Hon Booker Bonyo MCA Uyoma North, all the Ward Administrators Rarieda, the Chief Officer Water and Director Water amongst others.

SIAYA COUNTY TO RECEIVE 120 MILLION AFFORESTRATION FUNDING

By Calvin Awora

Siaya County is on the road to achieving the United Nations 10% recommended forest cover after the EU funded Water Towers and Adaptation pro-gramme in partnership with the County made a deal to see hill tops and river banks afforested in a bid to reducing the land degradation and deformation of landscapes cases.

The 120 Million Project which targets places like Aduwa Hills, Mbaga Hills, Akara Hills, banks of River Nzoia & Yala, etc will seek partnerships from Community groups and schools in raising tree seedlings to be planted in the targeted areas. The Investor who on Monday, accompanied by oth-er County Officials from the Department of Water, Environment and Natural Resources did a field vali-dation exercise, is particularly interested in planting Bamboo which is Eco-System friendly and other indigenous trees which provide environmental and economic benefits to the community.

By Auscar Wambiya

The 14 Governor’s meeting in Busia lately under the auspices of Lake Region Economic Bloc have agreed on major resolu-tions that will go a long way in consolidating the bloc for com-plete regional economic take off in not so long from now.

The counties will undertake intensive sensitization in mem-ber county assemblies and res-idents about the importance of the LREB in the next few weeks while establishing a strong legal and institutional bloc frame-work. The counties have also committed to the formation of a regional bank to help increase access to micro entrepreneurs.

The counties will allocate resources in their 2018/19 budgets towards financing LREB operations and work with relevant institutions such as the Central Bank, Auditor Gener-al, Treasury and Controller of Budget among others as well as

to focus on cross boarder flag-ship projects namely, a regional bank, Conservation of Mau, support the Sugar industry and promotion of Maritime services

The Governors have further pledged to joint coordination and planning of resources to en-sure improved service delivery. LREB will also host a regional investment conference in Octo-ber 2018 in Bomet County and promote entrepreneurship and financial inclusion by empower-ing the Youths, Women and the marginalized. Further, the Gov-ernors will collectively cham-pion the interests of the people in LREB member counties and schedule an urgent meeting with the national government to address the challenges wit-nessed in the Sugar industry.

RESOLUTIONS OF THE SECOND LAKE REGION

ECONOMIC BLOCK (LREB) SUMMIT

28th June 2018

By Jerry Sando

The County Executive Committee Member in charge of Agriculture,

Food, Livestock, Irrigation and Fisheries in Siaya County, Mr. Charles Ogada has commended the valuable partnership between his Department and The German Technical Cooperation (GIZ). The organization is a major partner supporting transformation of ag-riculture sector towards increased productivity, agribusiness and infrastructure within Siaya County.

Mr. Ogada was speaking during a consultative meeting in Bondo with development partners from GIZ Agriculture Western Cluster.

GIZ is currently working with the County Government of Siaya on a Food Security Project, Green Innovation Centres Project and a Soil Testing Project. The three projects are implemented in all 30 wards of Siaya County.

While the GIZ Food Security Project (FSP) is a bilateral programme implemented by GIZ and Department of Agriculture, Food, Livestock, Irrigation and Fisheries on behalf of German

Government and County Gov-ernment of Siaya respectively, the two other additional projects “Soil Protection and Rehabilitation for Food Security” and “Green Inno-vation Centres in the Agricultural and Food Sector” are implement-ed through the special initiative “One World – No Hunger” projects (SEWOHs).

The Executive Committee Mem-ber for Agriculture welcomed this partnership that is focused on strengthening the capacity of the Department to manage the agri-cultural sector through appropri-ate policies and strategies. He noted that to attract investment and maximize its contribution to the develoment of Agriculture sector, clear government policies are needed to guide and inform the planning, preparation, negoti-ation, monitoring, and implemen-tation of both public and private investment.

So far, the Draft Siaya County Agriculture Sector Policy 2017, Draft Siaya Agriculture Sector Plan 2018-2028 and Draft Siaya County Soil Management Policy 2017 are at advanced stages of formulation.

The Agriculture Department is also engaged in consultation with GIZ for further support in the

development of Fisheries Regula-tions, Dairy policy and root and tuber strategy. The CECM also noted that aquaculture, dairy, horticulture, root and tubers, sorghum production are key pri-orities of concern to the County Government of Siaya.

The Department also remains committed in integrating ICT to agricultural extension service. “Deliberate efforts to improve and modernize agricultural extension into a system that is cost effective, responsive to clients’ needs and broad-based in service delivery are in top gear”, Hon. Ogada noted.

With support from GIZ, 15 plant clinics have been established within Siaya to be manned by 30 County officials. They are provid-ing diagnosis and management advice for any problem and any crop. Mass messaging has enabled farmers to receive appropriate and timely agricultural messages using FrontlineApp.

Mr. Ogada was accompanied by his Chief Officer and Directors. GIZ Implementing partners present included GOPA, GFA, WHH, REFSO, UCRC, Free Kenya and KALRO Arupe. ASDSP, KCSAP and WRA.

CONTRIBUTION OF GIZ AGRICULTURE CLUSTER COOPERATION IN ATTAINING FOOD SECURITY IN SIAYA

Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries



SYMPOSIUM MARKS THE BEGINNING OF A SERIES OF ACTIVITIES AROUND GOT RAMOGI FESTIVAL 2018

28th June 2018

By Grace Adhiambo

The Got Ramogi Festival under the theme of Cultural Heritage for Socio-Economic Transforma-tion was today officially opened by Siaya County Dep-uty Governor His Excellency Dr. James Okumbe in Bondo Sub County, Siaya County. The opening event which entailed a symposium, was held at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University from 9am with the Dep-uty Vice-Chancellor of the University Prof. Benson Etsambale appreciating the County Government of Siaya for choosing JOOUST to be the host of the symposium.

The Vice Chancellor acknowledged the importance of embracing Culture and noted it’s significance in binding Siaya people together.

The Deputy Governor in his speech said that Got Ramogi is indeed a hill of multiple implications and the forest in itself is unique due to the multiple advantages it would present if conserved while lauding it’s potential as a site for research activities by

anthropologists, archaeologists and scientists alike.“Ironically, the forest cover at the hilltop is currently under threat of extinction as a result of the encroach-ment and indiscriminate cutting down of trees for firewood and charcoal,” he said. Dr.Okumbe empha-sized that for the Luo Community, Got Ramogi Hill is central to our cultural identity and diversity. Appar-ently, the hill was the dispersal point of the communi-ty upon their entry into Kenya through Uganda from Southern Sudan.

The Deputy Governor concluded by acknowledging various esteemed partners and stakeholders for making the festival possible while urging all Luos to attend the Got Ramogi Festival activities within the next three years and build strong bonds with each other.

Also present was for the opening symposium was the Tanzanian High Commissioner to Kenya Dr.Pindi Chana who was the Chief Guest who thanked Siaya County Government for the invite and emphasised on the importance of valuing culture and tradition. She gave examples from Tanzania about their love for their cultures. She welcomed all leaders present to visit Tanzania.

Luo Council of Elders Chairman Willis Opiyo Otondi was also present. In his speech, Mr. Otondi gave a brief narrative of how Luos originated from South Sudan and urged fellow luos to embrace luo culture like they have always done and not blindly imitate the European culture.

RASANGA ASKS LUOS TO SHUN RETROGRESSIVE CULTURES

29th June 2018

By Eric Omuombo

Hundreds of Siaya County residents have attended Got Ramogi Cultural Festival mainstream activities today in Bondo Constituency with a view to tasting the rich luo culture that has been appreciated by the high and the mighty attending this auspicious occasion.

The participants were treated to various traditional dishes, cultural dances and had opportunities to enhance social interactions during the three day event.

Adressing the mammoth crowd at Got Ramogi Hills, several leaders led by Kisumu Governor Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o and his Siaya counterpart His Excellency Cornel Rasanga appealed to their kinsmen to shun retrogressive cultures and instead embrace the rich beliefs that will be useful for posterity in future generations.

The duo regretted the influx of western cultures eroding the rich Luo culture and warned that if not tamed will condemn our traditional culture into extinction.

“There can never be a culture as rich as the Luo culture as it has earned Nyanza Counties lots of revenue in tourists attraction, and as governors we will strive to support local tourism,” Nyongo said.

Governor Nyong’o however asked Luos to trade carefully with the culture of wife inheritance lest it became detrimental to the community owing to its negative effects that boarders on health and family.

“As we celebrate Luo Culture today at Got Ramogi where Luos trace their roots, we ought to pick and embrace cultures such as traditional dances, delicacies and get enlightened on tools, traditional utensils, among others,” said the Chief Guest who is also the Kisumu Governor.

“We need to opt for traditional foods such as Sorghum Porridge, Traditional Vegetable, such as Osuga, Mito that prolong lives and strengthen bones,” added Nyong’o.

Alego Usonga MP Samuel Atandi has said Luos should be respected as key leaders who have continuously fought for good gover-nance. “We also have cultures like beating women, wife inheritance were embraced by our fore fathers hence outdated hence should be discarded.,” said Atandi adding that those who land jobs in the diaspora or in major towns across the country should consider developing homes at the grassroots to prevent shame and disrespect.

While he called upon the Luos to go polyga-my as a way of enhancing unity and respect in the society, nominated MP Prof. Jackline Oduol, a linguist noted that Luos must go beyond dances and value comprehension and look into family issues.

Gem MP Hon. Elisha Odhiambo said our heritage ought to be protected and affirmed that it was through culture that we quip our sons to get rid off vices like corruption.

Also present were Dr. Christine Ombaka, Siaya Women Representative and a host of elected, nominated and appointed leaders from across the breadth and width of the Luo Community including Hon. Opiyo Wandayi, MP Ugunja, Members of various County Assemblies and County Executive Committees.



OVER KSHS. 100 MILLION RINGFENCED FOR SIAYA UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE IN FY 2018/2019

1st July 2018

By Ambrose Odhiambo

The County Government of Siaya will provide National Hospital Insurance Fund cover for over 120,000 households in the financial year 2018/2019.

Speaking Ngunya, Ugunja Sub County over the weekend, His Excellency Cornel Rasanga Amoth noted that the county has allocated over KSh. 100 million to fix universal healthcare for the Siaya people, a project that is well within his legacy initiatives.

The Governor also confirmed the increment of ward de-velopment allocation from the initially proposed KShs. 19 million to KShs. 30 million for every ward, and asked for support from the Members of County Assembly and Mem-bers of The National Assembly in ensuring the success of his legacy projects for the benefit of Siaya citizens.

Ugunja legislator Hon. Opiyo Wandayi while also ad-dressing mourners at the same funeral occasion outlined a number of priority projects for the local population amongst

them expansion of Ngunya Secondary School to a center of excellence. The MP also promised to channel his energies towards speedy construction of Ugunya-Ukwala-Rwambwa road and issuance of title deeds.

Hon. Wandayi as well reported the ongoing consultations between him and the Chief Administrative Secretary at the Ministry of Public Service to further devolve Huduma Services from Siaya County Headquarters to Ugunja Sub County so that the constituents can access the services with reduced strain. The MP promised to pitch Huduma camp this coming Friday as a short term plan.

Alego Usonga Member of Parliament Hon. Samwel Atandi told off those opposed to the ‘Building the Bridges Initiative’ and referred to them as enemies of progress. He asked the President and Right Honourable Raila Amollo Odinga to stand firm in uniting the country and ignore those opposed to the program.

The County Executive Committee Member in charge of Ag-riculture Hon. Charles Ogada while speaking, promised the residents that he was on toes in ensuring the completion of construction of water pan in the area to do away with water crisis in the region.

Hon. Fredrick Opang’a, the Ugenya North member of County Assembly, in his sentiments asked the residents to support the governor in his work and give the assembly and the executive time to deliver on their manifesto.

County Assembly of Homa Bay Leader of Majority Hon. Ogindo who was also present congratulated His Excellency for the bold move in increasing the ward development fund to KShs. 30 million and hinted that Homa Bay County could follow suit. He asked for increased harmonious relationship between the two counties as he called on the citizens to support the County Government development programs.

FREE MEDICAL MISSION OF COMPASSION

27th June 2018

By Ambrose Odhiambo

Missionaries from the International Commu-nity Church in the United States of America are in Siaya County in partnership with Je-sus Christ The King Church, Bondo to fully sponsor a medical camp dubbed Free Medical Mission of Compassion.

Speaking at Siaya Headquarters, His Excellen-cy Rasanga Amoth embraced the move and appreciated the congregation for stepping in and partnering with the county government of Siaya in effectively serving the citizens.

While addressing the gathering during a courtesy call at the governor’s office, acting Chief Officer at the Department of Health Dr. Omondi Owino noted that the two week long program will consist of amongst other services, eye screening and cataract surgery, dental and oral health screening, free feeding program for the patients and free job oriented computer training.

Pastor Joseph B. Jesudason of the ICC Church USA, added that the event which is expected to commence on 2nd July 2018 will take place in Bondo at CDF hall in conjunction with Pride Hotel.



WARD DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS WIN BIG IN THE SIAYA COUNTY 2018/2019 BUDGET

28th June 2018

By Auscar Wambiya

The Siaya County Assembly has unanimously adopted the budget for the financial year 2018/2019 worth KShs. 8.77 billion presented earlier this afternoon by Hon. Sylvester Madialo, the Chairman of the County Assembly Budget and Appropriations Committee and member for Usonga Ward on behalf of the committee. Below are the major highlights of the budget: -

1. KShs. 900 million allocated to development projects at the ward level as prioritized during public participation exercises. This translates to KShs. 30 million per ward for 30 wards in Siaya. 2. Lake Region Economic Bloc funded at KShs. 100 million with recommendations on increased public awareness on it’s benefits3. KShs. 1,763 billion to be rolled over to the next FY 2018/2019 from the FY 2017/20184. Siaya County Scholarship Kitty to be operated after passage of relevant laws by the County Assembly to support education bursaries for the needy5. Siaya County Assembly to prioritize bill on Village Administration and funds expended down to the grassroots accordingly6. Siaya Stadium allocated KShs. 105 million in the Financial Year 2018/20197. Funds allocated for construction of the offices of the Members of County Assemblies8. Universal Health Care allocated KShs. 85 million with emphasis on regulations and rules to clarify criteria of identifying beneficiaries 9. KShs. 5 million allocated to Nyasanda Shades in Ugunja Sub County to help build infrastructure for Persons Living With Disabilities 10. KShs. 7.5 million allocated for youth related projects 11. KShs. 7.5 million allocated for women related projects

While supporting the motion , members of the County Assembly agreed with the Budget and Appropriations Committee of the assembly on most of the allocations but warned against corruption, misuse of funds and incompetence in the funds’ expenditure.

WE WILL SLAY THE CORRUPTION DRAGON: - RASANGA

24th June 2018

By Jerry Sando

Siaya Governor His Excellency Cornel Rasanga Amoth vowed to crush the corruption monster in Siaya County during his last term in office.

Speaking in Kisumu at The Kisumu Restoration Church, Ofafa ground where the Governor joined worshipers , His Excellency mentioned the ongoing purge at The Department of Finance as tips of the iceberg and the clearest indication that all stones will be turned to bring to book those plundering public resources.

The governor was optimistic that through team work from both the executive and the assembly, the corruption dragon will be slayed ultimately within the confines of his legacy term.

His Excellency was accompanied during the church service by County Executive Committee Members Hon. Charles Ogada (Agriculture), Hon. Benard Mboha (Roads), Hon. Adrian Ouma (Water), Dr. Elizabeth Omondi (Tourism), Hon. George Rubik (Governance) and MCAs Hon. Joseph Mboha (South East Alego) and Hon. Olasi (West Uyoma)

Also in the Governor’s entourage were Dr. Omondi Owino (Ag. CO Health), Walter Okelo (Chief of Staff) and Jerry William Ochieng (Communication Director) among others.

SIAYA COUNTY GETS A BOOST IN FODDER PRODUCTION 1st July, 2018


The County Government of Siaya in collaboration with German Technical Cooperation Cooperation (GIZ), Youth Enterprise Development Fund and International Centre of Insect Physiology (ICI-PE) is spurring a project on Commercial Fodder production that is targeting 70% of Siaya youths and 30% of the adults.

At the event launched graced earlier this week by the Investors, County Executive Officials, Siaya County MCAs, County officials and farmers at Siaya ATC, a road map to creating employment opportunities, financial sustenance and economic growth for the people of Siaya was reached.

The German Technical Cooperation will train and certify persons to be given loans by Youth Enter-prise Development Fund for establishing com-mercial fodder farms while ICIPE will provide training materials including setting up demon-stration sites.

Speaking at the event, Chief Officer for Agri-culture, Livestock and Fisheries, Hon. Sylvester KoKoth, encouraged the youth to collectively embrace the project and break the monotony of sidelining Agriculture while branding it as meant for the old in the society. He added that through intensive fodder production, the revival of up to six milk cooperative societies in Siaya will be key to helping process milk locally which will in turn sustain the County Government’s idea of supplying milk for all the ECD children.

Governance & Administration


MS. DOROTHY OWINO

Joined the county government in 2014 as Chief Officer in the then department of Education, youth affairs, gender, culture and social

development where she would reshuffle to the Health department barely a year later, following overhaul in the departments of education and health. Ms. Dorothy has diverse expertise in Social Science and holds a masters degree in Population Studies, which partially necessitated her fast transition from Education to Health departments and back.

Health systems, she explains, relies on six building blocks, among them, human resource, governance and leadership, health financing, health informa-tion management systems and above all, service delivery. Health requires good labor with special skills which entails up to 65% of the budgetary of

any health sector. She urges for serious investments on health commodities as drugs and other services.

Among her plans for the education docket, she promises robust focus on vocational trainings since there is need to reclaim some of the good things that seem to be fading away from the community. ”The focus of this community is not in technical training, but they should also know that this is where their strength is. They are very good on skill related things and formal sector is vibrant in Nyanza and we can develop from there, because the best mechanics are from this community so are the best tailors. We need to reclaim these good things that this community once had and step it up.” “We are going to engage more with interest groups so that efforts are coordinated with regard to empowerment and improvement of the sector to

make them independent economically and generally create awareness to get the community back on track society.”

Ms. Owino who took the oath of office on Thursday 31st May 2018 pledges to look into the challenges which force the residents not to completely utilize the available opportunities and as well ensure that all partners work in an integrated way to ensure growth and development of holistic people through efficient and effective service delivery; so that the services offered to the citizens can be of positive and beneficial impacts and that they are contented.

Still on her work plan is to address and curb the rampant cases of pregnancies among young school going children. She plans to promote discussions about reproductive health and develop capacities within the institutions so that they are able to effectively handle these masters within their environment. This will be enforced through setting up frequent forums together with stakeholders such as ministry of health, interior, churches and youth groups; to discuss and access progress of implementation of adolescent concerns so as to keep the issue on focus.

Hardworking and responsible Kenyans, constitutes what gives her happiness, and believes in positive attitude and proper human resource management as key pillars in optimizing different sectors of economy in order to scale up service delivery to the wananchi.

Meet the new CEC Education, Training, Youth and Social Services.

’the best mechanics are from this community so are the best tailors. We need to reclaim these good things that this community once had and step it up.”

Education, Youth Affairs, Gender & Social Affairs- Feature


SIAYA COUNTY FIRST TO QUALIFY FOR USD 300 MILLION WORLD BANK URBAN SUPPORT INITIATIVE

20th June 2018

By Auscar Wambiya

Of the 45 counties earmarked to ben-efit from the World Bank Funded Kenya Urban Support Program

targeted at rehabilitating all town centres and municipalities in Kenya except Nairobi and Mombasa at USD 300 million, Siaya County has become the very first to meet the primary threshold for funding followed by Nyandarua County in Central Region.

The five year program running between 2018 and 2022 will see Siaya County receive KShs. 299 million worth of funding with KShs. 250 million of it to be channeled for urban development initiatives and KShs. 49 mil-lion to help with capacity building initia-tives for the period of the project.

During an interview at his office earlier in the week, the Chief Officer in the Lands Department Mr. Ondiko intimated that the Urban Institutional Grant for capaci-ty building aspect of the program will see town management committees established in all towns in Siaya and the formation of Siaya Municipal Board for Siaya town headquarters beyond the rigorous capaci-

ty building of staff within such towns and Siaya Municipality.

The Urban Development Grant aspect of the program will however see projects relat-ing to storm water management, solid and liquid management, tarmarcking and main-tenance of roads within Siaya municipalities prioritized according to Mr. Ondiko. The development program will also finance a modern market within Siaya Municipality and also establish a starndard bus park and parking bays within Siaya Municipality

Some of the minimum conditions to be met before counties are approved for funding and which Siaya County beat all the 45 counties earmarked to benefit included the formation of a municipal board, formation of The Project Coordinating Team, opening of an account to manage the fund and establish-ment of a County Urban Intergrated Development Strategy.

Mr. Ondiko says that a final assessment of County preparedness will be concluded in July 2018 and the project could as well be-gin real time roll out latest September 2018. It is foreseeable from the forgoing that Siaya Municipality and the town centres in Siaya County will see complete transformation in their management, improved revenue collection mechanisms and sewerage sanitation.


CONSOLIDATE EARLY CHILDHOOD EFFORTS TO AVOID DUPLICATION, NGOs IN SIAYA URGED

20th June 2018

The Early Childhood Development Scaling Programme in Siaya County wants Non-Governmental organisa-tions dealing with children of ages 0-3 to partner and share the details of their activities’ budgets with a view to preventing duplications of child interventions related projects within the County.

Such partnership will further enhance consolidation of funds and help run synchronized programs all aimed at protecting children and their care givers to the extent of curing malnu-trition.

According to the Patron of the Early Childhood Development Scaling Pro-gram, Siaya First Lady Her Excellency Rosella Rasanga, all stakeholders concerned with improving welfare and protection of children of ages 0-3 will work more effectively by collabo-rating and sharing their data as a pool rather than individual pursuit of own activities in isolation.

“Projects duplication has been the norm in the region with little atten-tion given to the children,” Her Excel-lency noted adding that a consultation forum bringing together such NGOs

will offer the best platform for sharing achievements and challenges so as to plan on programs based on gaps in a bid to reverse negative trends that in-hibit proper development of children.Her Excellency Rosella Rasanga spoke on Wednesday at her Siaya Office during presentations targeting protection of children aged 0-3 as carried out by Mwendo and Catholic Relief Services strategy organisations in Siaya County.

“The presentations are so appealing and achievable if we team up and consolidate funds thereby address-ing the ills affecting young ones and jeopardizing their development,” said Her Excellency.

The First Lady also noted that the early pregnancy among girls that currently stands at 27% in the region must be reversed and that will be effective if addressed at the early stages especially at the Early Childhood Development stage.

Also in attendance were the Catholic Relief Services Strategy Represen-tative Tobias Opiyo, Community Health Volunteers Representative Ken Orwenjo all of who asked the NGO’s to share with the health department all their disaster related funding more so that addresses nutrition in the lives of kids adding that the recent heavy floods that destroyed homes and young ones presented unprecedented health risks to the County Healthcare System.

We are all different, but when we ask for the Lord’s blessings, we must not forget that God created us equal -Valdmir Putin

If you think you’re artistic in any way, you’re probably born with it. I guess it’s a talent that can be learned here and there, but I think the instict to tell a storyor to create something happens maybe in the womb.

Gabriel Macht

The best time to plant a tree is twenty five years ago. The second best time is today

Poetry Corner

ONE

One word can spark a moment,One flower can wake the dream;One tree can start a forest,One bird can herald Spring.One smile can bring a friendship,One handclasp can lift a soul;One star can guide a ship at sea,One cheer can obtain a goal.One vote can change a Nation,One sunbeam can lift a room;One candle wipes out darkness,One laugh will conquer gloom.One look can change two lives;One kiss can make love bloom.One step must start each journey,One word must start each prayer;One hope can raise our spirits,One touch can show you care.One voice can speak with wisdom,One heart can know what’s true;One life can make a difference,One life is me and you.... Shawnee Kellie

IT TAKES COURAGE

It takes strength to be firm,It takes courage to be gentle.It takes strength to conquer,It takes courage to surrender.It takes strength to be certain,It takes courage to have doubt.It takes strength to fit in,It takes courage to stand out.It takes strength to feel a friend’s pain,It takes courage to feel your own pain.It takes strength to endure abuse,It takes courage to stop it.It takes strength to stand alone,It takes courage to lean on another.It takes strength to love,It takes courage to be loved.It takes strength to survive,

“MOVE ON”

@ebikelly

Says the voice in the wind“Push harder”Urges more the voice“Don’t give up”Solids the voice“You are a warrior”Finalizes the voice

It’s all noise to youNo meaning No sanity No reasonTo you The voice aint of reasonIt’s the noisy voice In your lousy mind

But you are a WarriorBecause you didn’t choose your painYou didn’t choose the easier way outYou didn’t succumb to it’s pressureYou didn’t stop tryingYou didn’t stop smilingYou didn’t start complainingYou fought it the best way you knewYou embraced the new youYou lived your momentYou moved the painYou survived the situationYou wonYOU ARE A WARRIOR

You found your own voiceAnd you lived by it.

The County NEWSLETTER Page 17 The County NEWSLETTER

General Pictorial

Siaya County First Lady Rosella Rasanga Flagging off Sickle Cell Day procession

First Lady Rosella Rasanga and County DSirector of communication Jerry Ochieng interracting with childen Sickle Cell Day celebrations

Siaya prisons receiving televisions donation from Siaya County Government officers

Health CECM Ms. Omondi receiving drugs consignment from MEDs alongside Dr. Omondi Owino The County NEWSLETTER

INVEST IN THE FUTURE -SiayaCounty-

www.siaya.go.kePhone: 0722121670

Email: [email protected]

Published by Communications Directorate of CGS

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