From: joachim omolo ouko
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014
Rentia from Netherlands writes: “Joachim, just now I read on www.nation.co.ke in County Kisumu: People complain about high bill electricity”. Thank you Rentia for raising this issue- Yes, Kisumu is nightmare when it comes to irregularly hiking electricity bills. Obambo Primary School account number 2768333-01 was just reconnected about 5:34 hours Kenyan time.
We are not even sure whether this connection will last a month before they disconnect us again. This is despite the fact that between August to September we have been forced to pay over Ksh 17, 869. This is real nightmare.
Apart from Daily Nation you have quoted, residents in Kisumu are up in arms against high electricity charges which, they say, have doubled since July. Click here for more reading Residents complain of high power bills – Daily Nation Mobile. No one can explain exactly why Kisumu County had to hike power in such a ruthless manner.
According to the link, Mrs Loice Ogana, who pays a bill of between Sh3, 000 to Sh5,000, has been slapped with charges amounting to Sh16,658. And Ms Martha Mukulu, who has been paying Sh900, now has a bill of Sh6,000. Leave alone Ksh 40, 000 bill that was sent to a widow in Guest House in Awasi.
Consumers Federation of Kenya Secretary General Stephen Mutoro has confirmed receiving the complaints even as KP’s commercial boss Sellah Mdeda defended the rates and asked affected customers to report to their office for a review. To review is completely a waste of time.
Recently an ambitious power development project, in Homa-Bay County, estimated to cost Kshs 80 million, which was launched by governor Cyprian Otieno Awiti. Members of parliament representing all the eight constituencies have resolve to supplement the effort of the County government by ensuring that urban centers, market places and public institutions, including schools are connected to power either by the installation of solar light or through the main KPLC lines.
The county has five major towns, which are all by now connected to the main power lines. These urban centers included Oyugis, Kendu-Bay, Ndhiwa Mbit and Homa-Bay town which is the County’s administrative headquarters.
The region has close to ten major market places, which the eight MPS have vowed to ensure that they would receive lights. To supplement the county government’s concerted effort to ensure the trading centers and market paces received lights, the MPS are reportedly working round the clock by making use of the CDF revolving funds for the purpose of installations of solar light in all public institutions, health centers and dispensaries.
The late Joshua Orwa Ojode, formerly of Ndhiwa, had set the ball rolling when he pioneered in solar installation which is now lighting Gandhi market. The major market places included Ladonna, Riga, Moselle, Paley, Oriana’, Madel Krieger, Midi Company, Adora bondholder, Handiwork, Sin do, Haberman Awkward, Range,Indira and Ouch-Shenyang.
And while launching the ambitious power initiative programme GOV ERNOR awiti disclosed that the initiative is being undertaken by the KPLC. Once fully implemented by the governor, the project is expected to end the frequent power shortage in the region. The project is dubbed as “Boresha Umeme Homa-Bay. The project is expected to increase the electricity supply in the region six times over the current volumes. In attendance was the KPLC managing director Ben Chumo who told the gathering that the move was part of the countrywide exercise to upgrade the power supply system in the area.
The launching ceremony was held at Homa-Bay power station and the MD Chumo said that the work involved conducting master repair at existing service stations and upgrading power lines. Chumo said that in an initiative that is expected to create alternative source of power. The power utility has increased threshold is in high demand in the region by the traders who want to enhance their businesses.
Most market places located in Karachuonyo, Kasipul, Kabondo- Kasipul constituencies are on electricity connections.
The MPs representing the eight constituencies included JOHN mbadi [Gwassi}, Oyugi Magwang {Kasipul}, Augustine Netto {Ndhiwa}, Millie Odhiambo {Mbita},George Oner{Rangwe}, Opondo Kalum {Homa-BAY Town}. James Rege reg {Karachuonyo} and Silvance Oselle of Kabondo-kasipul.
Jan 29 – 31 – TANESCO, EWURA, Millennium Challenge Corporation, OPIC and IFC to address the future of Tanzania’s power sector
EnergyNet’s Powering Africa: Tanzania executive meeting, will be held from 29th-31st January in Dar Es Salaam
DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania, January 9, 2014/ — “With such a focused group of industry shapers participating at the Powering Africa: Tanzania meeting from the 29-31 January (http://www.poweringafrica-tanzania.com), we can’t help but be buoyed by the possible outcomes of the debate.” Simon Gosling, EnergyNet.
As the World Bank agrees to support Tanzania to strengthen the country’s business environment, international investors flock to the country in search of credible partners, a deeper understanding of the requirement of entering the market and an eagerness to do business.
According to the International Energy Agency, sub-Saharan Africa will require more than $300 billion in investment to achieve universal electricity access by 2030. The US government’s “Power Africa” initiative, which includes Tanzania as one of six priority countries for investment, will commit more than $7 billion over the next five years in financial support to African countries in their goals to increase power generation.
The opportunities are therefore massive for Tanzania to transform its economy, create thousands of jobs and empower the youth of the nation to take the East African region profitably forward through to 2030.
Whilst both Kenya and Mozambique have witnessed increased investment of late, it is in Tanzania that the volume of investment is changing more rapidly compared with previous years. Managing this transformation appropriately will be the lasting legacy of the government.
Investment from banks and investors such as the World Bank, AfDB, the Millennium Challenge Corporation, OPIC, CADFund, CDB and USAID will provide the backbone of investment in Tanzania whilst the industrial sector finds its feet. Most recently the World Bank invested a further US$60mln to boost Private Sector Competitiveness and to fuel sustainable growth and support job creation; a key off-shoot of increased access to energy and power sector development, for which the Bank is also playing a central role.
EnergyNet’s Powering Africa: Tanzania executive meeting, to be held from 29th-31st January in Dar Es Salaam, will explore the importance of international partnerships in more detail, bringing together leading international players such as Symbion Power, Schneider Electric, Aldwych International as well as local stakeholders including the Ministry for Mines and Energy, TANESCO and EWURA, to create a credible platform to discuss the opportunities for investors in the country’s power sector. EnergyNet is delighted to have these hugely important organisations represented, further highlighting their commitment to Tanzania.
Distributed by APO (African Press Organization) on behalf of Clarion Events.
For more information about Powering Africa: Tanzania:
AfDB Board commits US $113 million to Regional Rusumo Falls Hydropower Project
The Rusumo Falls project will increase renewable power generating capacity and access to electricity in Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi
TUNIS, Tunisia, November 27, 2013/ — The African Development Bank Group’s (AfDB) (http://www.afdb.org) efforts to improve sustainable energy supply and access in Africa took a leap forward with the Board of Directors’ approval of the Regional Rusumo Falls Hydropower Project. The Bank Group allocated US $97.3 million from the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund for the multinational project, which will support the development of sustainable energy infrastructure. An additional US $16 million grant from the Sustainable Energy for All (SE4All) window of the EU-Africa Infrastructure Trust Fund was recently mobilized by the AfDB Group to help finance part of the Burundi transmission line from the Rusumo Falls power plant.
The Rusumo Falls project will increase renewable power generating capacity and access to electricity in Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi. The project has two components: an 80 MW hydropower generation plant and transmission lines and substations. The Bank finances the transmission facilities of Rusumo Falls Hydropower Project. Beneficiaries of the project include the households, industries, SMEs and businesses in Burundi, Rwanda and Tanzania,
who will gain access to cheaper, more reliable and clean electricity.
Construction of the transmission facilities is expected to be completed by August 2018; the three countries will share the power generated equally. The project will enhance the process of regional integration by the countries developing and managing the joint assets.
“Rusumo Falls is one of many projects financed by the AfDB in response to a crisis in low-energy access rates, limited infrastructure development in the region and regional projects that enhance regional stability through increased cooperation and integration among countries. Africa has incredible untapped hydropower potential: only four per cent of which has been exploited,” explained Alex Rugamba, Director of the AfDB’s Energy, Environment and Climate Change Department. “Through projects such as the Rusumo Falls project we are looking to leverage Africa’s natural assets for universal access to modern, reliable and affordable energy services on the continent.”
The project will increase hydroelectricity supply capacity to relieve the power deficit in all three countries. It will also allow them to address their low energy access rates. Rwanda and Tanzania will be able to displace some of the energy generated from high cost imported fuel with cheaper hydropower thereby reducing the current electricity tariff. In the case of Burundi, the project will provide 50% of the current peak power demand, which will allow the country to expand access and other economic activities, and reduce CO2 emissions.
The Rusumo Falls project is a Programme for Infrastructure Development for Africa (PIDA) priority project. In 2012, African Heads of State endorsed a set of priority energy projects to be implemented by 2020 as part of the PIDA. Rusumo Falls is one of nine hydropower projects identified for the PIDA energy infrastructure program, which focuses on major hydroelectric projects and interconnects the power pools between countries.
The AfDB’s support to the Rusumo Falls project has spanned several years. In 2006, the Bank provided an ADF grant of US $4 million to the Nile Basin Initiative to finance the technical, financial, economic and social feasibility studies for the transmission lines of the Rusumo Falls hydroelectric plant.
Distributed by APO (African Press Organization) on behalf of the African Development Bank (AfDB).
Contacts:
Media: Penelope Pontet de Fouquieres, Knowledge Management and Communications, T. +216 71 10 19 96 / C. +216 24 66 36 96 / p.pontetdefouquieres@afdb.org
Technical contact: Alemayehu Wubeshet-Zegeye, Chief Power Engineer, a.wubeshet-zegeye@afdb.org
About the African Development Bank Group
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) (http://www.afdb.org) is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 34 African countries with an external office in Japan, the AfDB contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states.
$1.26bn funding for the Ethiopia – Kenya high-voltage transmission line, due for completion in 2015
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia, October 30, 2013/ — In recent years Ethiopia has transformed itself into a regional player, securing $1.26bn funding for the Ethiopia – Kenya high-voltage transmission line, due for completion in 2015. Once completed, the economic benefits for Ethiopia and its neighbouring economies will be felt far and wide.
The project is co-funded by the World Bank, the African Development Bank, the French Development Agency and the Ethiopian and Kenyan governments, and is already resulting in valuable tenders. Construction companies should pay considerable attention to these opportunities and how this will open up the market to the private sector.
Additionally, the $289 million Ashegoda wind farm was inaugurated three days ago, contributing 120MW to Ethiopia’s national grid- further showcasing the strength of the partnership between Ethiopia and its international donor communities.
Most recently, the ground-breaking partnership with US-Icelandic firm Reykjavik Geothermal was established to build Ethiopia’s first private power project; at 1000MW, the largest geothermal facility in Africa. Totalling $4 billion private sector investment, it is projects such as these which will enable Ethiopia to tap into its vast geothermal power resources and open up the private power market.
Also in Ethiopia’s impressive project pipeline is the 6000 MW Ethiopian Grand Renaissance Dam, potentially the largest hydroelectric power plant in Africa. This will be wholly funded by the Ethiopian government at a cost of $4.8 billion and scheduled for completion in 2017.
According to Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, Ethiopia’s economy is set to maintain a growth rate of 11 percent in 2013/14 with prominent plans to upgrade infrastructure as a priority focus in its annual budget.
To support these goals, the Ministry for Energy is again supporting the second Powering Africa (http://www.poweringafrica-ethiopia.com): Ethiopia Executive Meeting in Addis (28 – 29 November 2013) where His Excellency Alemayehu Tegenu, Ethiopia’s Minister for Water and Energy and Miheret Debebe, CEO at the Ethiopian Electric Power Corporation (EEPCO) will join other stakeholders, investors and technology providers to discuss specific project tenders and the path forward. The meeting will provide direct insights on how government is working towards attracting Foreign Direct Investment and seeking tangible investor solutions in what has traditionally been a public sector dominated market.
To view the full speaker list for this event, please visit http://www.poweringafrica-ethiopia.com
From: Abdalah Hamis
—
Jobs in Africa – www.wejobs.blogspot.com
International Jobs – www.jobsunited.blogspot.com
– – – – – – – – – – –
Author: Dr A. Massawe/massaweantipas@hotmail.com
Electricity is the most important essential in our present times dominated with electric powered instruments, machines and information technology aided human activities in households, education, health care, wealth creation and entertainment.
As a substitute for firewood and charcoal, electricity also contributes mitigation of deforestation in rural areas. Hydro, solar and wind sourced electricity also contributes mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere and their global warming effect.
High electricity consumption per capita (KWh per person) in a country is also an indication of high levels of industrial based economic growth and quality of life per person in the country. For example, comparing the KWh per person of 2012 for Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda which are 133, 73 and 58 respectively, indicates that the levels of industrial based economic growth and quality of life in Kenya are higher than those in Tanzania and those in Tanzania are higher than those in Uganda.
Despite of the huge hydro, coal, natural gas, geothermal, wind and solar based electricity generation potentials Tanzania is gifted with, statistics generated by Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS), the World Development Indicators (WDI) and World bank research and reported by Isis Gaddis, Jacques Morriset and Waly Wane shows it is only 14 % of its population had access to electricity in 2010 and only 3 % of its rural population uses electricity.
Tanzania produces less than 1000 MW of hydro, natural gas and heavy fuel based electricity right now and its supply to customers is very unreliable and expensive. Under-exploitation of generation potentials in hydro, coal, natural gas, geothermal, wind and solar resulted into the insufficiency and inefficiency of electricity supply causing the continuing escalation of costs in doing business; retardation of growth in the investing for manufacturing; and closure of power intensive and/or cost sensitive local manufacturing and replacement of locally made with imported products.
Costly power generation contracts the Tanzania Electric Supply Company Limited (TANESCO) entered with foreign companies in local power generation are also a hindrance in the national efforts to provide enough and reliable electricity at competitive price to consumers throughout the country. TANESCO reported in the newspapers recently that it spends 5.4 billion shillings per day in power generation, transmission and supply to customers, only collecting 2.34 billion shillings per day in return. The difference of figures is huge and indicative of serious optimization problems in the way TANESCO manages national supply of electricity to customers in the country.
Electricity problems experienced throughout the country for many years now are a consequence of delays in the exploitation of the Stigler’s and other hydro and coal power generation potentials Tanzania is gifted with which should have been a national economic development priority accomplished long time ago.
Long term solution to the electricity problems the nation is experiencing now is obtainable from speeding up development of the Stigler’s and other most cost effective hydro and coal power generation potentials available in the country. And, all new emergency power plants to be constructed in the country should be TANESCO whole owned in order to ensure that some of the huge emergency cost trickles back to TANESCO as profit and savings. Foreigners could be involved only as contracted suppliers, builders and managers of the TANESCO whole owned emergency power generation plants.
Again, the newly natural gas finds made at Msimbati village in Mtwara region could have contributed optimal solution to the electricity problems the country is experiencing if it was resolved Msimbati gas should be for power generation in Mtwara instead of for power generation in Dar es Salaam the way it is already decided. Optimal because it would have allowed avoiding the huge cost of pipeline construction and management of natural gas transportation from Mtwara to Dar es Salaam throughout the lifespan of the project and enable availability of reliable electricity supply at competitive price for the stimulation of investments in the development of untapped economic growth potentials Mtwara and its neighbouring regions of Lindi and Songea are gifted with.
It is also very hopeful that from the continuing exploration, new natural gas finds could be made onshore and offshore, very near to Dar es Salaam and renders the transportation of the gaseous fuel from Mtwara to Dar es Salaam unnecessary. Again, Dar es Salaam may not need Mtwara natural gas for the generation of its own electricity because the city is well positioned to receive it from future developments like hydro and coal based power generation potentials in the country through the national power grid it is already well connected on.
Also, in order to attract in investments, the availability of reliable supply of electricity at competitive price should be created first where national economic growth potentials exist untapped due to lack of power supply like it is with Mtwara right now and not the other way round like many argue that it should be Msimbati gas for electricity generation in Dar es Salaam instead of in Mtwara because Dar es Salaam already has investors to consume it when Mtwara doesn’t have any.
Competitiveness of electricity price in the local market is more important than the availability of reliable electricity which is too expensive to be supportive of investments in the development economic growth potentials the nation is gifted with. Since majority of the Tanzanian population is widely scattered in the rural areas of the country and only 3% of it uses electricity, rural electrification based on renewable sources like solar should be a national priority and involve maximum participation of private sector developers. State could finance the installation of solar power generation plants for rural schools and healthcare centers and put in place fiscal regimes and subsidies to enable rural households to install own solar power generation plants and private sector to invest in the development of commercial small scale hydro, coal, wind, solar and geothermal electricity generation and supply infrastructures to consumers within the boundaries of rural cluster settlements.
Establishment of national company responsible for the development of renewable sources based electricity infrastructures like solar based electrification of rural areas in the country will be a very positive government response in ensuring newly developed technologies for the generation of electricity from renewable resources like solar are timely put into the service of electricity demand in the country.
Rationale for the national supply of electricity required to enable stimulation of investments in the development of national economic growth potentials is to have it generated at source and consumed in the development of first nearest to source national economic growth potential (s) and remains of electricity passed over to the second nearest to source national economic growth potential (s), and so on. Aim is to avoid cost in the transportation of raw materials for power generation; minimize losses and cost in the transmission of electricity though long distance; and to enable fair and maximized stimulation of investments in the development of economic growth potentials throughout the country.
Again, rationale should be to export electricity to nearby foreign markets rather than to local markets which are far away from source and import from nearby foreign sources rather than from local sources which are far away in order to mitigate transmission costs and losses through long distance.
Also, to be able to achieve sustainability of sufficiency and efficiency of electricity supply in the country, TANESCO should be in the hands of competent local and/or foreign Board directors who are equipped with world class competence in successful management of similar national power generation, transmission and distribution companies elsewhere and appointed involving the services of executive selection consultants. Most State owned companies in the country are underperforming or already collapsed mainly due to incompetence of the appointments to their Boards made based on who knows who, political affiliations and alliances instead of competence.
From: Ouko joachim omolo
The News Dispatch with Omolo Beste in images
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2013
Although no sign of violence in Homa Bay ODM nomination tomorrow, it is going to be a tough race between Eng. Philip Okundi and Cyprian Awiti for governor seat. Even though Okundi may get votes from his Kochia West Location in the present Rangwe constituency, non performance as former area MP may lead to his downfall.
While Cyprian Awiti may get favour following his previous developments in Homa Bay County, Okundi is to influence voters from Mbita, Gwassi, Ndhiwa, Rangwe, Karachuoyo and Kasipul-Kabondo constituencies if he were to defeat Awiti.
Although Okundi has vast training and skills in communication technology on top of his ministerial experience in public affairs, Awiti has made good reputation as Marie Stoppie Country director, even though his managerial experience is said to be rather inferior to that of Eng. Okundi.
But even so, Awiti had served as the Principal of the Railway Training School before joining the Marie Stoppie Clinics, a well known International NGO in the world. Dr. Mark Matunga had to decline his ambition for the seat because he hails from Mfangano Island in the Suba district of Mbita the same as Otieno Kajwang who is running for senator seat.
The reason being that both of them come from Suba, including Roselyn Onyuka who is running for women representative- Matunga is to face Milly Odhiambo for Mbita constituency MP.
Even though Matunga is a senior technical representative of the Microsoft Computer International serving the company in close to 15 African countries in the south, east and west, he is not well known to the constituents like Milly Odhiambo.
While Awiti is popular in Kasipul Kabondo, particularly in Oyugis area, the fact that he is said not to be in good book with the most influential woman in Karachuonyo politics, particularly Dr Mrs Phoebe Muga Asiyo, the former two ties MP for the area, and who hail from the Southern part of the constituency of Kanyaluo, the critics argue this might also lead to his downfall.
His critics argue that he is also not in good working relations with the incumbent MP for Karachuonyo Eng.James K Rege, whose influence in this most populous constituency matters a lot. Awiti campaigned for the immediate former Karachuonyo MP Dr.Paul Adhu-Awiti during the 2007 general election against Rege.
His critics argue further that the fact that he is also being accused for having sponsored the parallel ODM splinter groups led by former journalist Jack Nduri his oppnents might use this to block him.
They may use the same to Eng. Okundi whom they accuse of not doing much for his Kochia people when he was the MP. It is said that his own people in Kochia West location are not with him, leave a lone the greater Jokochia.
They also accuse him of not having network with the youth who are the majority voters. He is also accused in his own sub location (Kanam) of favouring people from his Kwoyo area at the expense of even his own brothers from Ariwa, Ngegu and Godbondo areas.
On the other hand, Awiti is not only credited as one person who has been traversing the entire Luo-Nyanza, but also making hefty cash donations for the improvement of educational facilities, health centers and dispensaries, churches, women and youth groups.
Awiti who hails from the Eastern part of Karachuonyo constituency in Kobuya sub-clan which is a member of the most populous and influential clan called Kadwet clan, whose members occupies the most part of Central and Eastern Karachuonyo constituency in Rachuonyo North district is an orator.
He is also not only a staunch member of the Roman Catholic church, which is enjoying the largest following in areas like Rangwe, Ndhiwa, Gwassi and parts of Western and Eastern Kasipul constituency in Rachuonyo South district, he has worked closely with the church by promoting its activities and church sponsored projects. Priests in these areas may use this as his campaign tool.
Fr Joachim Omolo Ouko, AJ
Tel +254 7350 14559/+254 722 623 578
E-mail omolo.ouko@gmail.com
Facebook-omolo beste
Twitter-@8000accomole
Real change must come from ordinary people who refuse to be taken hostage by the weapons of politicians in the face of inequality, racism and oppression, but march together towards a clear and unambiguous goal.
-Anne Montgomery, RSCJ UN Disarmament Conference, 2002
Diasporans have not be consulted for logistics or opinions. They should not be simply taken for granted.
What a shame Diaspora have to be denied rights last minute in a half-hazard manner …. !!!…..
The Coalition Government has now proved itself that it is incapable of leading Kenya to greener pasture. They have failed because of putting Special Interest and greed before Peoples Mandate. They failed because they did not have any Plan of Action when they got into Office, except they engaged in the Plunder of Public Wealth and Resources……..They have failed because the leadership was not able to set priorities of Things-To-Do; the Fundamentals of what make people get involved to commit to engage in organized Plan of Action to improve matters of Livelihood and survival, the things that are the engine that drives human activities that make the Country successful and united to achieve goals for life.
I must say that, the Coalition Government leadership spend more time doing nothing good for the Nation and the people of Kenya, with exception of going after their selfish ego and greed. They all failed misserably to comply with the oath they took to uphold Public service delivery as mandated. Many of them have pending cases in court with other irregularities that will not allow them to pass the Responsibility and Integrity Test as a result of so many issues of irregularities with conflict of interest.
They have no moral justice to turn against the Constitutional Legislative Rights of Diasporans. It is an obligation that the Diasporans exercise their voting rights to participate in electioneering process to elect the right person in the leadership of Kenyans. The Diaspora were the voice that saved Kenya from falling apart during the 2007/8. Their participation must be considered crucial and should not be taken for granted.
Kenya’s progressive Agenda for Development and sustainability cannot be fully realized without Diaspora’s full participation and engagement in election process. To deny them to vote is lacking moral value and legal justification that otherwise can be understood to be against the constitution, jumping the gun in an irregular manner which will not be tolerated nor will it be acceptable unless legally, it is Justified by the High Courts ruling against it with specifics. But, if things must be done the way Hon. Eugene Wamalwa puts it in the statement made in this video here under, then we will be forced to take this matter to be resolved at the court of our choice and the accruing expenses and costs incurred will be borne by the Coalition Government of Kenya.
We now urgently demand for proper explanation from Justice and Constitutional Minister Mr. Eugine Wamalwa to suffice information why Diaspora should not hold them responsible with costs for contravening the Legislative rights policy of Diaspora’s to participate in election process.
This matter will not rest until it will have been fairly heard. If Coalition Government leadership has failed they should say so. They had a lot of time in their hands doing nothing. It is time to take stock……..!!!
Judy Miriga
Diaspora Spokesperson
Executive Director
Confederation Council Foundation for Africa Inc.,
USA
http://socioeconomicforum50.blogspot.com
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Kenyans Living Abroad React
Published on Nov 28, 2012 by K24TV
Kenyans living abroad have reacted with fury at the news that they will not be voting in the upcoming general election. This follows yesterdays revelation by Justice minister Eugene Wamalwa that logistical challenges won’t allow Kenyans abroad to vote there. And as our reporter found out, most Kenyans abroad took to social media to express their frustration and anger.
It is only last week that PM assured us here in Korea that we will vote. What a turn by the same cabinet he sits on?
wilfody 1 hour ago
You talk as if we not Kenyans!
wilfody 1 hour ago
what a shame
Utadowot 2 hours ago
— On Wed, 11/28/12, margaret gichuki wrote:
From: margaret gichuki
Subject: Kenyans in Diaspora miss out on 2013 poll
Date: Wednesday, November 28, 2012, 8:20 AM
Me too.I don’t anymore.There were times I knew all the DC streets and parkings!
And it got worse sometimes when I found myself driving to NY.
Oh not anymore!
On Tue, Nov 27, 2012 at 6:17 PM, wrote:
Wams,
I stopped welcoming these selfish mongrels when they visit USA long time ago
Afwande
From: margaret gichuki
Date: Tue, 27 Nov 2012 15:40:36 -0500
Subject: Kenyans in Diaspora miss out on 2013 poll
Charles,
That’s a tall order but lets see.
I like when they ”visit us here”.The world comes to a stand still.
Never again!
On Tue, Nov 27, 2012 at 2:30 PM, charles mogeni wrote:
Chifu,
We can also make a statement here in diaspora so that our impact can be felt!
Don’t remit any funds for a month or so unless for emergency reasons like express medical care for our families or friends who need it.
I am sure heads will roll in Nairobi! However to reach such a collective decision in diaspora requires a lot of soul searching and committment.
I saw a clip of the video posted by Henry Ongeri whereby the IEBC chair Mr. Hassan claims that here in the USA only 25,000 Kenyans are registered a figure he claims he sourced from the Immigration officials who handle passport applications/renewals. In other words, besides that figure probably there is even less Kenyans registered. That kind of argument about the low numbers wins the day when it comes to allocating funds for a diaspora voter registration drive that there is not enough Kenyans tospend that kind of money.
As it stands now we in diaspora are living in “Loserville City” and when the politicians will be coming visiting our towns we’ll be jamming the halls to listen to them and not the other way round! What an irony!
My 50 cents.
Charles Mogeni
From: tomoreje@ . . .
Date: Tue, 27 Nov 2012 16:00:55 +0000
Subject: Kenyans in Diaspora miss out on 2013 poll
Some fellows like Wa-Mwangi who voted last in 1992 will have to wait for another five years.
From: “chifu_wa_malindi”
Date: Tue, 27 Nov 2012 15:54:36 -0000
Subject: Kenyans in Diaspora miss out on 2013 poll
Why? shame, shame, shame on you all…
— On Wed, 11/28/12, samoturiy@ . . . wrote:
From: samoturiy@yahoo.co.uk
Subject: Diaspora to move to court over voting
Date: Wednesday, November 28, 2012, 10:46 AM
What is the Next thing? Accept that you are done In and wait for 2017, for now through proxy sends lots of cash to your proxies to support what would have been ur choice. The money you spent on the candidates in not lost.
Future resources put into Diaspora -Investment Co Ltd that has been suggested many times.
Moturi
From: margaret gichuki
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2012 10:29:05 -0500
Subject: Diaspora to move to court over voting
“It is very sad that Kenyan politicians, who have been harvesting money from Kenyans abroad, find it easy to deny them a voice in running the affairs of Kenya. To this we say no. Most presidential candidates and cabinet ministers have been abroad on fund raising missions. It is immoral to exploit money from people whose opinion one has no regard for” Said Professor Fulbert Namwamba of Louisiana.
Amos Wasike of Baltimore, Maryland said he had a lot of misgivings from the day the IEBC visited the US on the so-called fact finding mission. “They kept on insisting on progressive voting in a way that left no doubt in mind that they were not committed to the issue. One wonders why they wasted the tax payers’ money on frivolous trips”.
Doctor Odotte of Pennsylvania said the IEBC never demonstrated due diligence in ensuring that Diaspora voting took place. “They never carried out any expert analysis or studies on what the logistical or administrative obstacles were likely to be because they knew exactly what they were doing”. He said.
Odotte however took issue with what he termed as ‘chronic passiveness’ from people in Diaspora. “I am surprised at the belated outrage from Kenyans abroad now that the gavel has come down on their right to vote. Where were they when petitions that needed to be signed were being circulated” He asked.
Alafu IEBC says this today.
http://www.nation.co.ke/News/politics/IEBC-to-make-final-decision-on-Diaspora-voting/-/1064/1631056/-/wqa8wo/-/index.html
And we’re saying this:
https://www.kenyansabroadvote.com/voterEligibility . With a million voices, we can move mountains.
Kenyans in Diaspora miss out on 2013 poll
By CAROLINE WAFULA cwafula@ke.nationmedia.com
Posted Tuesday, November 27 2012 at 17:27
Kenyans in the Diaspora will not vote in the next General Election.
The bombshell was delivered to Parliament Tuesday by Justice minister Eugene Wamalwa, who told MPs the decision was reached at last week’s Cabinet meeting.
It followed consideration of the preparedness of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to handle the massive exercise of registration of voters locally and abroad, he said.
The government cites logistical, financial and time constraints as the main reason for the setback.
“It is therefore not practical to have them take part now,” the minister said.
Already, Parliament has passed rules to guide the registration of voters in the Diaspora. The official number of Kenyans in the Diaspora registered with the various Kenyan Embassies stands at 130,000.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, however, puts the estimated number of Kenyans in foreign countries at 700,000.
In a statement that caught MPs unawares, the minister said it was not practical to have the population in the Diaspora exercise the voting right as enshrined in the Constitution.
The government decision, the minister said, is based on a landmark ruling by the High Court on November 15 that found that though the right is guaranteed constitutionally, it was not absolute and cannot be realised instantaneously but progressively.
Many Kenyans in the Diaspora were looking forward to registering as voters to participate in the March 4, 2013 General Election.
Kenyans in Diaspora miss out on 2013 poll
People queue to cast their ballots during past elections. Kenyans in the Diaspora will not vote in the next General Election, Justice minister Eugene Wamalwa told Parliament November 27, 2012 NATION MEDIA GROUP
By CAROLINE WAFULA cwafula@ke.nationmedia.com
Posted Tuesday, November 27 2012 at 17:27
Kenyans in the Diaspora will not vote in the next General Election.
The bombshell was delivered to Parliament Tuesday by Justice minister Eugene Wamalwa, who told MPs the decision was reached at last week’s Cabinet meeting.
It followed consideration of the preparedness of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to handle the massive exercise of registration of voters locally and abroad, he said.
The government cites logistical, financial and time constraints as the main reason for the setback.
“It is therefore not practical to have them take part now,” the minister said.
Already, Parliament has passed rules to guide the registration of voters in the Diaspora. The official number of Kenyans in the Diaspora registered with the various Kenyan Embassies stands at 130,000.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, however, puts the estimated number of Kenyans in foreign countries at 700,000.
In a statement that caught MPs unawares, the minister said it was not practical to have the population in the Diaspora exercise the voting right as enshrined in the Constitution.
The government decision, the minister said, is based on a landmark ruling by the High Court on November 15 that found that though the right is guaranteed constitutionally, it was not absolute and cannot be realised instantaneously but progressively.
Many Kenyans in the Diaspora were looking forward to registering as voters to participate in the March 4, 2013 General Election.
The government, however, considered that their right to vote will not be realised immediately, citing challenges facing the IEBC.
“Why it was belated is because we were trying everything to empower IEBC, supporting them fully and holding their hands in every way, but for now what they have on their table is already too much,” the minister said.
The Cabinet considered several options possible, including starting with some blocs such as the East African Community, the IGAD or the European Union community.
2017 General Election
It, however, resolved to give the electoral commission more time to make necessary preparations to have them vote in the 2017 General Election.
“It is just a question of practicability of the exercise with the time left. Can we really expect them to carry out a registration exercise for eligible Kenyan voters all over the world,?” he posed.
“It is a question that needs proper preparation, let us get our house in order, let us prepare adequately to avoid a repeat of the 2007/2008 experience. There will be progress that will be made until they are able to participate,” he stated.
The move will dampen spirits given that the community abroad has been assured time and again that it will be able to participate in the elections.
@@@@
Kenyans in diaspora locked out of March poll
By EDWIN MUTAI
Posted Tuesday, November 27 2012 at 18:57
In Summary
The government decided that it will be impossible for Kenyans living abroad to vote owing to challenges facing the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission.
Time and logistical constraints will not allow IEBC to register Kenyans in the diaspora.
Kenyans in the diaspora will not vote in the March 4 General Election, the Cabinet decided last Thursday.
Justice and Constitutional Affairs minister Eugene Wamalwa said the government decided that it will be impossible for Kenyans living abroad to vote owing to challenges facing the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission.
Mr Wamalwa said time and logistical constraints will not allow IEBC to register Kenyans in the diaspora.
“I will be the bearer unfortunately of bad news this afternoon. It is impossible for those outside Kenya to vote in 2013 elections. The government decided that IEBC be given enough time to make preparation for Kenyans in the diaspora to vote in 2017,” he said.
Kenya will have to conduct a census first to establish the exact number of Kenyans in the diaspora. An estimated three million Kenyans live abroad, but government figures show only 130,000 registered Kenyans.
“The challenge is that many of those who leave the country do not register with 52 embassies and high commissions where they are,” the minister said.
Maji_Baridi•a day ago
I somehow saw it coming when the ambassador recently stated that he didn’t know what was going on back home. Oh well, so much for reforms. Knowing Kenya politics, nothing’s gonna change in 5 years. Mdomo tupu.
tim tim•a day ago
Very sad indeed
Voter Registration Kicks Off Today
Monday, 19 November 2012 06:09
If you want to take part in a ballot and decide who shall manage Kenya at various levels as well as direction country should take in the post-Kibaki era, your chance to register has come.
For a country bruised and torn apart by the 2007 discredited elections, and without a voters’ register, this is a momentous occasion as a new one is rebuilt over the next 30 days.
Even sweeter to the ear this time around, despite the logistical challenges of getting it running, Kenyans will register using the more secure and tamper-proof Biometric Voter Register (BVR) kit
The election itself will be a unique experience for Kenyans given that it will entail six elections in one for President, Members of Parliament for 290 constituencies, Governors and Senators for 47 Counties, County Assembly Representatives and Women Representatives.
IEBC on Sunday announced that all the logistical plans are in place and about 30,000 clerks trained on the use of the BVR kits are ready to begin electronic voter registration.
Voter registration starts on Monday at close to 25,000 polling centers across the country.
On Monday President Kibaki, who is preparing to hand over power after the March 4 General Election next year, launches the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission’s (IEBC) countrywide voter registration exercise at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre in Nairobi amid protests by Kenyans in the diaspora that they have not been briefed on the exercise.
The electoral commission suspended registration plans in the diaspora last month to establish the number of Kenyans living abroad who are eligible to vote and also await a court ruling on a case filed against the exercise.
On Sunday, Commissioner Yusuf Nzibo, who is in charge of the diaspora vote, said that the case, which was filed by some Kenyans in the diaspora, had disrupted the commission’s plans for voter registration abroad.
“We had to stop the plans, but we will meet on Tuesday or Wednesday to announce a new date for registration in the diaspora,” Dr Nzibo said.
Dr Nzibo noted that there was confusion over the actual number of Kenyans living abroad.
“We have already set aside 140 BVR kits. When we meet the Foreign Affairs officials we will then conclude on the plans and probably make an announcement regarding this matter,” he said.
However, he said the commission had advertised for returning officers and electoral clerks for the exercise that is estimated to cost Sh150 million.
The commission plans to register at least 18 million voters, with some saying the figure could rise to 22.5 million. The 30-day exercise is expected to end on December 16, followed by 15 days of voter register verification.
On Sunday, there were concerns that the IEBC was yet to update Kenyan embassies on the listing progress.
For instance, the Kenyan Embassy in Washington, DC, said in a statement that it was awaiting direction from the IEBC. “I am concerned that Kenya’s largest diaspora may very well miss out on this historic event,” said ambassador Elkana Odembo on Saturday.
IEBC chairman Issack Hassan said early this month that Kenyans in the US will register at the embassy in Washington DC, the United Nations mission in New York and the consulate in Los Angeles.
The same venues are also expected to serve as polling stations during the elections.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs should expedite sharing of relevant information with the commission to enable finalisation of logistical details for the diaspora registration,” Mr Hassan said.
Last week, High Court judge David Majanja dismissed a case filed by some diaspora voters and ruled that the IEBC was complying with the law allowing “progressive realisation” of the right to vote by Kenyans abroad.
The registration will take place in 47 missions and consulates and the Foreign Affairs Ministry is to nominate some embassy officials who will also assist in the registration.
From: People For Peace
Voices of Justice for Peace
Regional News
BY FR JOACHIM OMOLO OUKO, AJ
NAIROBI-KENYA
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2012
Although Catholic Bishops in Kenya have urged Member of Parliaments who are its members to oppose the controversial Education Bill 2012 that stop religious organisations from sponsoring public schools, this Bill must be rejected by all MPs and Kenyans. The bishops have asked MPs that are their faithful to oppose the Bill once it is presented for deliberations in Parliament.
[image]Some of the students at Bishop Sixto Mazzoldi High School, Ongata Rongai of Ngong Catholic Diocese pose for a photo at the Apostles of Jesus Shrine on August 27, 2012 shortly after the Holy Eucharist celebrations in memory of AJ founders-Bishop Mazzoldi and John Marengoni-25 and 5 years respectively. Most parents in Kenya would prefer to take their children in religious run institutions. The school is run by the Evangelizing Sisters of Mary/ Photo by Fr Omolo Ouko, AJ
If enacted, the Bill will bar religious organisations from playing key roles of spiritually nurturing learners to be good citizens. The bishops are afraid that if this succeeds, our schools will start producing Godless creatures and the society will be ruined.
Since Bishops are responsible for and sponsor one third of all schools in Kenya, they demand for fair representation on the Selection Panel of the National Education Board.
The Composition of the County Education Boards makes vague reference to representation of religious sponsors.
The Bill must take into account the Catholic Church’s massive investment in education infrastructure, human resources and presence even in the much marginalized places. The Catholic Church should be adequately represented in the County Education Boards.
Most of the Catholic sponsored schools are on land owned by the Church or land held in trust by the Church for the community. The Bill must ensure that the ownership rights of the religious sponsors are recognized and respected as per the Constitution.
All property owned, alienated and/or held in trust by a religious sponsor for the purposes of education shall continue to be owned, held and/or alienated by the religious sponsor and such property shall not be transferred or otherwise alienated for any other purpose. We cannot accept that our land will be taken by the government under any pretext because it is against the spirit and letter of the Constitution.
The Kenya National Association of Parents has also faulted the Bill clause that seeks to have parents prosecuted for failing to take their children to school. The association’s secretary general Musau Ndunda has defended parents saying citing factors like poverty and lack of enough teachers as some of the factors beyond the parents control that hinder from taking their children to school.
The Cabinet approved the Bill in August this year that makes it illegal for children to be out of school and imposes punitive jail terms and fines for parents and guardians who flout the law.
The Basic Education Bill 2012 which was adopted at a meeting chaired by President Mwai Kibaki wants parents or guardians who decline sending their children to school to be thrown in jail for five years or a fine not exceeding Sh100,000 or in extreme cases, both.
According to the Constitution of Kenya Adopted August 2010 on Education, 43(1) every person has the right—(f) to education. 21 (1) states that it is a fundamental duty of the State and every State organ to observe, respect, protect, promote and fulfil the rights and fundamental freedoms in the Bill of Rights.
On Religion it states that there shall be no State religion. 32. (1) every person has the right to freedom of conscience, religion, thought, belief and opinion. (2) Every person has the right, either individually or in community with others, in public or in private, to manifest any religion or belief through worship, practice, teaching or observance, including observance of a day of worship.
(3) A person may not be denied access to any institution, employment or facility, or the enjoyment of any right, because of the person’s belief or religion. (4) A person shall not be compelled to act, or engage in any act, that is contrary to the person’s belief or religion.
237. (1) There is established the Teachers Service Commission. (2) The functions of the Commission are— (a) to register trained teachers; (b) to recruit and employ registered teachers; (c) to assign teachers employed by the Commission for service in any public school or institution; (d) to promote and transfer teachers; (e) to exercise disciplinary control over teachers; and (f) to terminate the employment of teachers.
(3) The Commission shall––(a) review the standards of education and training of persons entering the teaching service; (b) review the demand for and the supply of teachers; and (c) advise the national government on matters relating to the teaching profession.
There is nowhere in provision where religious sponsored schools have the role, not only on spiritual matters, but also in the decision of how the sponsored schools should be run and managed. It is the role of the state to run all schools and make policies.
Fr Joachim Omolo Ouko, AJ
People for Peace in Africa
Tel +254-7350-14559/+254-722-623-578
E-mail omolo.ouko@gmail.com
Peaceful world is the greatest heritage
That this generation can give to the generations
To come- All of us have a role.
(or at least you could be if Romney and Ryan are elected)
Possible reasons for termination:
The Romney-Ryan budget would kill 1 million U.S. jobs in 2013
To give more to the rich, Romney and Ryan would raise taxes on the middle class—tanking the economy and killing jobs
Romney is proposing to give even bigger tax breaks to corporations that outsource jobs Will you help us share 1 million pink slip messages today so voters know what to expect if Romney and Ryan are elected?
Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan are the dream ticket for the 1%. But their plan to give even more to the rich would be disastrous for the economy. We’re distributing 1 million pink slips this week to show voters just how many jobs Romney and Ryan would cost us in the first year alone. Can you share this pink slip message with everyone you know?
Romney & Ryan: Don’t hire them, unless you want them to fire you.
Sources:
1. “Ryan’s budget cuts would cost jobs,” The Economic Policy Institute Blog, March 21, 2012
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=278656&id=49016-21095459-CJjhZVx&t=3
2. “Five Times Mitt Romney Has Embraced The Ryan Budget,” ThinkProgress, August 11, 2012
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=278984&id=49016-21095459-CJjhZVx&t=4
3. “Study: Romney tax plan would result in cuts for rich, higher burden for others,” Washington Post, August 1, 2012
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=278241&id=49016-21095459-CJjhZVx&t=5
4. “Romney’s Bain Capital invested in companies that moved jobs overseas,” Washington Post, June 21, 2012
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=278985&id=49016-21095459-CJjhZVx&t=6
5. “Romney’s Tax Plan May Cost U.S. As Many As 800,000 Jobs: Report,” Huffington Post, July 17, 2012
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=278610&id=49016-21095459-CJjhZVx&t=7
Want to support our work? We’re entirely funded by our 7 million members—no corporate contributions, no big checks from CEOs. And our tiny staff ensures that small contributions go a long way. Chip in here.
BY MOVEON.ORG POLITICAL ACTION, http://pol.moveon.org/. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee.
MIDIMO HOUSE the three store biggest business complex in Awendo Town was partly gutted by fire whose source has remained a mystery.
The fire started in the eastern wing of the multimillion shilling property which is standing magnificently and the tallest and the biggest building in this farming town at about 5.30 later in the afternoon. Traders and businessmen operating shop in the building ruled out the possibility of the fire having been ignited by electrical fault.
The said the incident took place on Monday at the time when the eastern area of the building had most of its power supplies disconnected a couple of week ago. They suspected foul play.
Traders operating in the building and the kiosk owners around put a brave fight in a concerted effort to put off the fire in a Town which has no fire fighting engine. However, the few goods that they were able to retrieve from the burning shops were looted by the onlookers and standby who turned thieves.
The building belonged to Dr. Simeon Owuor Odede, a local businessman-cum-farmer and a former chairman of the Board of Director of the Awendo based SonySugar Company.
Dr Odede, however, could not be reached to give the estimate of the loses incurred and a to how mn8ch money the repair work would cost, but viewing the building from outside, one could just make the guesswork that the loss caused is enormous.
At the same the traders operating shops inside the building were seen counting for their loses. Three shops located downstairs were the most affected,
Pastor ‘Tunde Bakare delivered this expose on Fuel Subsidy at The Latter Rain Assembly a few hours ago. Please read, digest, and share with as many people as you can. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!!!
1) DEFINITION
To subsidise is to sell a product below the cost of production. Since the federal government has been secretive about the state of our refineries and their production capacity, we will focus on importation rather than production. So, in essence, within the Nigerian Fuel Subsidy context, to subsidise is to sell petrol below the cost of importation.
2) THE UNSUBSTANTIATED CLAIMS OF THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT
The Nigerian government claims that Nigerians consume 34 million litres of petrol per day. The government has also said publicly that N141 per litre is the unsubsidised pump price of petrol imported into Nigeria. (N131.70 kobo being the landing price and N9.30 kobo being profit.)
3) ANNUAL COST OF IMPORTATION
Daily Fuel Consumption: 34 million litres
Cost at Pump: N141.00
No. of days in a regular year: 365 days
Total cost of all petrol imported yearly into Nigeria:
Litres Naira Days
34m x 141 x 365
= N1.75 trillion
4) COST BORNE BY THE CONSUMERS
Nigerians have been paying N65 per litre for fuel, haven’t we? Therefore, cost borne by the consumers =
Litres Naira Days
34m x 65 x 365
= N807 billion
5) COST OF SUBSIDY BORNE BY THE GOVERNMENT
In 2011 alone, government claimed to have spent N1.3 trillion by October – the bill for the full year, assuming a constant rate of consumption is N1.56 trillion.
Consequently, the true cost of subsidy borne by the government is:
Total cost of importation minus total borne by consumers, i.e. N1.75 trillion minus N807 billion = N943 billion.
Unexplainable difference: N617 billion
The federal government of Nigeria cannot explain the difference between the amount actually disbursed for subsidy and the cost borne by Nigerians (N1.56 trillion minus N943 billion = N617 billion).
6) BOGUS CLAIM BY THE GOVERNMENT
A government official has claimed that the shortfall of N617 billion is what goes to subsidising our neighbours through smuggling. This is pathetic. But let us assume (assumption being the lowest level of knowledge) that the government is unable to protect our borders and checkmate the brisk smuggling going on. Even then, the figures still don’t add up. This is because even if 50% of the petrol consumed in each of our neighbouring countries is illegally exported from Nigeria, the figures are still inaccurate. Why?
WORLD BANK’S FIGURES: POPULATIONS OF WEST AFRICAN COUNTRIES
NIGERIA: 158.4 million
BENIN: 8.8 million
TOGO: 6 million
CAMEROUN: 19.2 million
NIGER: 15.5 million
CHAD: 11.2 million
GHANA: 24.4 million
The total population of all our six (6) neighbours is 85.5 million.
Let’s do some more arithmetic:
a) Rate of Petrol Consumption in Nigeria: Total consumed divided by total population:
34 million litres divided by 158.8 million people = 0.21 litres per person per day.
b) Rate of Petrol Consumption in all our 6 neighbouring countries, assumed to be the same as Nigeria:
0.2 litres x 85.5 million people = 18.35 million litres per day
Now, if we assume that 50% of the petrol consumed in all the six neighbouring countries comes from Nigeria, this value come to 9.18 million litres per day.
7) PATHETIC ABSURDITY
There are two illogicalities flowing from this smuggling saga.
a) If 9.18 million litres of petrol is truly smuggled out of our borders per day, then ours is the most porous nation in the word. This is why: The biggest fuel tankers in Nigeria have a capacity of about 36,000 litres. To smuggle 9.18 million litres of fuel, you need 254 trucks. What our government is telling us is that 254 huge tankers pass through our borders every day and they cannot do anything about it. This is not just acute incompetence, but also a serious security challenge. For if the government cannot stop 254 tanker trailers from crossing the border daily, how can they stop importation of weapons or even invasion by a foreign country?
b) 2nd illogicality:
Even if we believe the government and assume that about 9.18 million litres is actually taken to our neighbours by way of smuggling every day, and all this is subsidised by the Nigerian government, the figures being touted as subsidy still don’t add up. This is why:
Difference between pump price before and after subsidy removal =
N141.00 – N65.00 = N76.00
Total spent on subsidizing petrol to our neighbours annually =
N76.00 x 9.18 million litres x 365 days = N255 billion
If you take the N255 billion away from the N617 billion shortfall that the government cannot explain, there is still a shortfall of N362 billion. The government still needs to tell us what/who is eating up this N362 billion ($2.26 billion USD).
ILLOGICAL ASSUMPTIONS
i) We have assumed that there are no working refineries in Nigeria and so no local petrol production whatsoever – yet, there is, even if the refineries are working below capacity.
ii) Nigeria actually consumes 34 million litres of petrol per day. Most experts disagree and give a figure between 20 and 25 million litres per day. Yet there is still an unexplainable shortfall even if we use the exaggerated figure of the government.
iii) Ghana, Togo, Benin, Cameroun, Niger, and Chad all consume the same rate as Nigeria and get 50% of their petrol illegally from Nigeria through smuggling.
These figures simply show the incompetence and insincerity of our government officials. This is pure banditry.
9) FACT 9: The simplest part of the fuel subsidy arithmetic will reveal one startling fact: That the government does not need to subsidise our petrol at all if we reject corruption and sleaze as a way of life. Check this out:
a) NNPC crude oil allocation for local consumption = 400,000 barrels per day (from a total of 2.450 million barrels per day).
b) If our refineries work at just 30%, 280,000 barrels can be sold on the international market, leaving the rest for local production.
c) Money accruing to the federal government through NNPC on the sale, using $80/bbl – a conservative figure as against the current price of $100/bbl – would be $22.4m per day. Annually this translates to $8.176bn or N1.3 trillion.
d) The government does not need to subsidise our petrol imports – at least not from the Federation Account. The same crude that should have been refined by NNPC is simply sold on the international market (since our refineries barely work) and the money is used to buy petrol. The 400,000 barrels per day given to NNPC for local consumption can either be refined by NNPC or sold to pay for imports. This absurdity called subsidy should be funded with this money, not the regular FGN budget.
If the FGN uses it regular budget for subsidising petrol, then what happens to the crude oil given to NNPC for local refining that gets sold on the international market?
10) TACTICAL BLUNDER
The federal government is making the deregulation issue a revenue problem. Nigerians are not against deregulation. We have seen deregulation in the telecom sector and Nigerians are better for it, as even the poor have access to telephones now right before the eyes of those who think it is not for them. What is happening presently is not deregulation but an all-time high fuel pump increase, unprecedented in the history of our nation by a government that has gone broke due to excessive and reckless spending largely on themselves. If the excesses of all the three tiers of government are seriously curbed, that would free enough money for infrastructural development without unduly punishing the poor citizens of this country.
Let me just cite, in closing, the example of National Assembly excesses and misplaced spending as contained in the 2012 budget proposal:
1.Number of Senators 109
2.Number of Members of the House of Representatives 360
3.Total Number of Legislators 469
4.2012 Budget Proposal for the National Assembly N150 billion
5.Average Cost of Maintaining Each Member N320 million
6.Average Cost of Maintaining Each Member in USD $2.1 million/year
Time has come for the citizens of this country to hold the government accountable and demand the prosecution of those bleeding our nation to death. Until this government downsizes, cuts down its profligacy and leads by example in modesty and moderation, the poor people of this country will not and must not subsidise the excesses of the oil sector fat cats and the immorality precipitate fiscal scandal of the self-centred and indulgent lifestyles of those in government.
Here is a hidden treasure of wisdom for those in power while there is still time to make amends:
PROVERBS 21:6&7
“Getting treasures by a lying tongue is the fleeting fantasy of those who seek death. The violence of the wicked will destroy them because they refuse to do just.”
A word of counsel for those who voted for such soulishly indulgent leadership:
“Never trust a man who once had no shoes, or you may end up losing your legs.”
This is the conclusion of the matter on subsidy removal:
i) “If a ruler pays attention to lies, all his servants become wicked.” (Proverbs 29:12)
ii) “The Righteous God wisely considers the house of the wicked, overthrowing the wicked for their wickedness. Whoever shuts his ears to the cry of the poor will also cry himself and will not be heard.” (Proverbs 21:12&13)
Thanks for your attention. God bless you all.
Pastor ‘Tunde Bakare
—
Tembelea www.mwanabidii.com Kwa mijadala Moto Moto
INFORMATION emerging from the Arusha based secretariat of the East African Community says Energy Ministers across East Africa are set to meet by the end of this month to discuss a regional master plan, seek to end the bloc’s crippling power shortage
The EAC secretariat is reported to be in the process of finalizing details of the meeting which s expected to attract executives from regulating authorities and private sectors power producers.
They will discuss regional priorities in terms of power generation and transmission in line with EAC power master plan and agree on fund raising initiatives,
The forthcoming gathering is also expected to develop a framework that will enable regional governments an the private sector to invest in energy generation projects.
The East African region is battling power shortage which in 2011 plunged the block into darkness, slowing business growth and hurting household. The power cuts signaled one of East Africa’s perennial problems; the bloc has never had enough power in the first lace. In Kenya for example, only 48 per cent of urban and 4 per cent rural households are connected to the national grid.
In the neighboring Tanzania, 12-hour began in June, when a drop in water levels in Mtera Dam in Iringa region forced Tanzania Electric Supply Company to resort to load shedding. Industries reported shrinking their work day from two to a single shift, and some suspending production.
It has been reported that the EAC Council Ministers had directed the secretariat to fast-track the establishment of the EAC power pool by June 2012, to enable power sharing within the region.
The EAC earmarked several priority projects that are critical for ensuring interconnectivity and for enhancing power generation. For example,Singida-Arusha Nairobi 400KV inter connector is expected to be complete by 2014
The EAC Secretary General Dr Richard Sezibera, says the feasibility study and preparation of tender documents for 400KV transmission line through Singida, Arusha and Nairobi will cost USD 3 million. Bujagali 250MW project is currently under the construction and the project is expected to be commissioned in the course of this year The cost of thus particular project is estimated at USD116 million.
The 220KV transmission between Uganda and Rwanda funded by AfDB will cost USD 57 million, according to the EAC’s CEO
Another 220KV transmission between Burundi and Rwanda will cost USD 20 million and it is expected to be completed by2014.
The Rusumo Nyakanz i220KV, Rusumo-Kigai 220KV interconnection and Rsumo-Bujumbura 220Kv interconnection should be complete by 2015.
The 2,100MW Stiengiers hydro-power is expected to materialize in 2017,while Kiwira Coal Plant in Tanzania with a capacity to generate 200MW will become operational in 2014
Rwanda peat power production is projected to generate 400MW by 2013, while Burundi will commence a peat power plant with 200 MW by 2015.
Ayago hydro power with a capacity to generate 600MW by 2018 and Rusumo hydro-power will generate 90MW by2016.
It is official. The country must now prepare for yet another round of total darkness as the over 12000 KPLC staff begins a nationwide strike as from next week.
Speaking to reporters in Kisumu the national vice chairman of Kenya Electrical Trades and Allied Workers Union Mr. Vincent Okulo said although a meeting is scheduled between the union and KPLC top management for the October 17th , this will no avert the looming strike.
Okulo said the meeting will only discuss the delayed Collective Bargaining Agreement for the period 2011/2012 which was to come into effect from January this year.
The union official said the strike which is likely to spur massive industrial unrest and job cuts as more employers will likely do while seeking to survives its aftermath is the last option for staff in their efforts to battle it out with the newly branded KPLC whose vision of ” powering people for better lives” the union now appear bent to discredit.
The union is demanding immediate conclusion and full implementation of the delayed CBA. In the agreement negotiated last year, the union wants the lowest employee to earn sh.17500 up from13,000. They also want a 13% increment for all the cadres.
Apart from the CBA, the union is also demanding that KPLC absorbs as permanent a all the current staff working on temporary terms.
According to Okulo who is also the union’s secretary general for western Kenya region, only 3000 out of 12000 are KPLC permanent staff.
These are artisans such as the meter readers, disconnection clerks etc many of whom are not even covered medically by the company and whom he claimed die while working due to the risk surrounding their duties.
They also want KPLC to stop giving jobs to contractors arguing that contractors were engaging in shoddy jobs and were also to blame for the persistent power outages experienced in most parts of the country.
Okulo claimed that top managers were allegedly colluding with some of the unscrupulous contractors and that explains the many cases of theft of equipment and vandalism that is common at the firm.
”I have worked here for twenty years now. before the management introduced out sourcing of services and hiring of contractors to do jobs for KPLC, issues such us loss of transformers were not there . power back outs were minimal. Today, these people vandalize equipment, siphon transformer oils and do business with the company supplying materials the same materials they have stolen from us” he said.
Okulo who represents 600 casuals from the western Kenya region said the no amount of intimidation will cow them this time round into abandoning the strike and asked consumers countrywide to prepare by stocking candles.
He said the strike action was within the law and asked the police to keep off and resist attempts by the management to use them to intimidate and harass those who will take part in the industrial action.
In the last such strike, some union officials in the region were arrested by police in Kisumu who locked them up.
The country was plunged into total darkness in 1998 when there was severe drought that saw KPLC introduce power rationing that lasted several months resulting into loss of jobs and impacting negatively in the economy.
HILARY Ochieng’ Alila one of the youthful aspirants for the coveted position of Homa-Bay County Senate seat has reaffirmed his candidature and dispelled the rumor making the round that he had chicken out of the race.
Alila who has been out the country for close to one month, returned home on Sunday evening in a flight from Johannesburg, South Africa where he had gone on a business mission and immediately called this writer by phone to reaffirm his candidature.
He dismissed the rumor as the work of his political detractor and enemies working in cohort with his opponent in the race.”But I want to assure all my supporters, particularly the youths, women that I am very much in the race and we shall all meet at the ballot box come 2012,” said Alila.
Alila who is a businessman in both Nairobi and Kampala said he had gone to South Africa to explore the possibility of extending his business network to that country with view to capitalize on its buoyed economy boasted that he had established a formidable following and political network in all the seven constituencies that forms Homa-Bay County and as such cannot back down from the race.
He said if elected to the Senate he will thrive to make the vast and most expansive County the most vibrant. He said the region is rich in agriculture, mineral and fishing and could be turned around if the youthful and energetic leaders are voted into it. It only requires people with good education and experience of and capable of ensuring that good governance is in place.
Alila dismissed reports making the round that the Prime Minister Raila Odinga intend to impose the Immigration Minister Otieno Kajwang’ to take the Homa-Bay Senate seat as mischievous rumors. Raila is an experienced politician and he needs everyone around for him to realize his presidential ambition. He would therefore pick the popularly elected Senator to work with.”The burden of choosing the good Senator is therefore resting with the electorate.” He added.
Alila who hails from Ndhiwa constituency is said to be very popular with the youths. His candidature has sent the shockwaves down the spinal cords of the other aspirants, especially his organizational ability and networking with the youth and women groups. He has been conducting Harambee fund drive for the various economic and social projects all the places in Nyanza ever since he made his intention to run for the Senate seat early last year. And perhaps he is the most visible aspirant in the region.
Alila promised his opponents a real and bruising battle comes next year.
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Germany to fund new coal plants with climate change cash
Published: 13 Jul 11 17:12 CET
Online: http://www.thelocal.de/national/20110713-36277.html
The German government wants to encourage the construction of new coal and gas power plants with millions of euros from a fund for promoting clean energy and combating climate change.
Funding for the initiative is limited to five percent of the energy and climate change fund’s annual expenditure between 2013 and 2016.
Annual funding for the new plants could total more than €160 million per year between 2013 and 2014 alone, the Berliner Zeitung newspaper reported on Wednesday.
[ . . . ] http://www.thelocal.de/national/20110713-36277.html
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from Lloyd Daub
Now that we know of all the hydrocarbons available on Titan, yes, natural gas can now be considered a ‘renewable’ energy source I suggested the first collection ship be called “Nostromo.”
The Case of Energy Ministry: Investigate all Parliamentary Standing Committees!
The withdrawal of the Ministry of Energy and Minerals’ budget during the Parliamentary debate is evidence that the responsible Parliamentary Committee either intentionally or unintentionally, did not perform their prerogative role of scrutinizing the budget well. An independent investigation inquiry should be set up to look into the possibility that Parliamentary Standing Committees may have been bribed by the government in order to approve ineffective public budgets.
The media is awash with reports that the Prime Minister, Mizengo Pinda, shelved the budget for the Ministry of Energy and Minerals for three weeks following a fierce debate over the current power and mining crisis. Lately, the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Energy and Minerals, David Jairo, had written a letter to agencies and institutions under his ministry directing them to contribute Tsh 50 million each in order to facilitate smooth tabling of his Ministry’s budget.
This seems to have been the usual tradition as part of the letter states “…kama ilivyo kawaida wakati wa kuwasilisha hotuba ya bajeti Dodoma…” although this time business turned out to be not as usual, rather a saga. It was also reported in the media in the past few weeks that the Parliamentary Standing Committee responsible for the Ministry of Energy and Minerals may have been bribed to approve the Ministry’s budget in Dar es Salaam. The feeling among the public is that the case of the Ministry for Energy and their respective Parliamentary Committee is not an isolated one.
Apparently, similar trends have been observed regarding other ministries. For example, most public institutions usually organize for seminars with the Parliament before the budget debate for their respective ministries. These seminars may possibly be meant to pay MPs in order for their budget loopholes to go unchallenged.
Tanzania is faced with perennial problems emanating from poor oversight of the government by the Parliament. Some of these problems include unprofitable business contracts, grand corruption scandals, public budgets fraught with unnecessary expenditures, poor public financial management, and abuse and misuse of public funds.
Since both the Parliament and Government are implicated in this bribe scandal, an independent body should be tasked to form an independent probe committee to investigate these allegations of the government bribing the parliament. Corrective measures should then be taken against those found responsible.
Mr. Irenei Kiria
Executive Director of Sikika, P.O.Box 12183 Dar es Salaam,
Tel: +255 222 666355/57, Fax: 2668015, Email: info@sikika.or.tz, Website: www.sikika.
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As Hon Chris Okemo and former KPLC MD Gichuru battle to avoid jails terms. I want us to recall this scenario that happened a few years ago. Large scale power rationing in 1992 or 93 IMF flew in large generators which some were stationed at Kasarani Kenyan government was slapped with a very huge bill which led to KPLC books of account to nose dive lol. Things became very thick to KPLC there was no further research and expansion of power ,communities who wanted power was slapped with very obscene connection charges.
Another mistake was massive sackings at KPLC to reduce pay costs.
And this mistake we did in 1992/93 has seen Kenya fail to catch up with Singapore tiger nations.
Is time we work hard to ensure Kenya has effecient energy to power our economy.
Over 60 % of this nation is without reliable power. Over 12,000 primary schools don’t have power yet we talk of vision 2030.
So energy if we harness it well ,Kenyan GDP will move north. Jobless rate will reduce and investors will come back so that we don’t keep losing to countries like Egypt.
Am very glad for Ministry of Energy to have begun mini power productions plants or encouraging private investors too.
But more is needed too more so in power selling KPLC is now joking with Kenyans power blackouts are all over.
I wish our leaders will amend energy at so that KPLC whenever there is power blackout customers are paid.
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Thanks
Gibson Amenya
Enigma Consultants Kenya Limited
NHC Building,3rd Flr
Kenya +254720424218, +254-722-825417
Uganda ++256784867430
P.O Box 54753-00200 Nairobi
Email: gib.amenya@enigma.or.ke
Email:info@enigma.or.ke
Audit,Taxation and Business Advisory Services
The recent tour of Tanzania by the US Secretary of State Hilary Clinton, Washington is injecting at least USD 206 million into energy projects in that country that will help boost the country’s power generation.
The money will be used to construct and rehabilitate 24 power sub-stations as will as install a new 100MW sub-marine power cable between the mainland and Zanzibar
The financing is part of deal of a USD 698 million grants extended to Tanzania in 2008 under the Millennium
Challenge Corporation to fund water, energy and infrastructure projects in Tanzania.
During her cent visit to Dar Es Salaam, Clinton said the success of the project will mean Tanzania can cut the present power crisis by over half and boost the country’s economic growth.
“The future of Tanzania depends on the availability of a reliable power service,” she said.
The power shortage has triggered rationing and pushed up the cost of production in the manufacturing sector.
The government plans to spend Tshs 4.7 trillion {USD 2.96 billion under a five year development program that end in 2015 to boost electricity output from 1,000MW to 2,780MW.
An American energy firm Symbion Power LLC will construct a 100MW plant at Ubungo in Dar Es Salaam and another 60MW in the lakeside northwestern City of Mwanza.
The CEO of Symbion Power Paul Hinks was quoted in the local media has government has entrusted his firm with almost USD 100 worth of electrification work across Tanzania.
Energy and Mineral Minister William Ngeleja also disclosed that talks were underway between Pan-African, TANESCO and Petroleum Development Corporation to increase gas supply from 90 million cubic feet to one million cubic feet to meet the rising demand.
“One gas unit produces 15 MW and additional supply from Symbion will step up this to 75MW,”the Minister added.
Symbion Powr management said last week it had signed an interim agreement with Tanesco to sell power to the state-owned utility. The company charges a rate of USD 4.99 per kilowatt hour.
Symbion Power and Pick Electronic Corporation based in Mount Airy, North Carolina, won a contract of USD 110 million and USD 18 million respectively, from the Millennium Challenge and Corporation account to build a sub-station and extend electricity distribution in Tanzania,the us Embassy said in its website.
Early this year Tanzania started the construction and expansion of nearly2,88o kilometers of the national power grid after it acquired USD 65 million from the MCC account.
The Awendo small farming town in Migori County is totally committed to enhance the standard of living among its residents.
The Council has committed its limited resources in the installations of street lights within the town and its environs, and also extended the work to the neighboring markets such Ranen, Mariwa and Dede..
These remarks were made by the Council Chairman Councilor Johnson Omolo Owiro during an exclusive interview with this writer in his Awendo town hall Office. He said his Council has completed the new modern Bus Terminal at a cost close to Kshs 50,000. The Council has embarked on the program of providing its rapidly expanding population with clean water for life.
The Council has recently come under severe criticism for its alleged employment of people related to the elected and nominated civic leaders in the area, the charge which the chairman strongly refuted.
Other programs earmarked by the Council included the rehabilitation of the Town’s road network, new sewerage system. Another is the recent construction of road bumps, which has now drastically reduced fatal accidents, which were daily occurrences.
Talking about the recent employment, Coun.Owiro said his Council has never employed new workers, but what it has done was to confirm all those who have been working for as casuals. “We no longer have casuals and this clearly shows that we are the best compliance to the Kenya government police of creating 500,000 new jobs annually.” There are no longer any casuals on the employment of the Council.
The chairman severely criticized political activists, who were in 2007 involved in election rivalries in Rongo constituency, of trying to derail the Council by way of heaping and spreading malicious and falsified accusation against the Council.
Coun. Owito appealed to all stakeholders to work together and get rid of criminal elements in Awendo town.
Meanwhile another motor bike taxi thief was lynched after being traced to Ahero area of Kisumu County. The thief, who is reportedly hailed from Sakwa West within Awendo district, is said to be in a group of thieves who in the recent past have been robbing the motor bike boda boda taxis of their bike and rode them to distance places where they carried business as usual.
The other accomplice was killed in Ahero area. The thief was forced on a motor bike and driven from Ahero to Awendo where he was lynched in the same spot where another motor bike thief was burnt to ashes last week.
Meanwhile an Awendo trader, Mr Seth Okong’o, who was shot five times and killed, in his house located behind his shop in Awendo Town, was buried last weekend in a tearful send off ceremony in his home near Macalder Town.
Also buried was the woman, a mother of six, who was also shot four times and killed, at the nearby Ranen market after thugs raided her living quarters. Her husband who fained death after the first short was fired, is still being treated in Hospital. The thugs descended on the woman and shot her six times, because she had raised alarm, and hacked her lifeless body with machetes.
I suggested the first collection ship be called “Nostromo.”