President Kibaki and Hon. Mwakwere attend COMESA Summit

Nairobi, August 30, 2010

President Kibaki departs to Swaziland for COMESA Summit

President Mwai Kibaki has left the country for a three-day official visit to Swaziland where he will attend the 14th Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Summit of the Heads of State and government.

The COMESA region is Kenya's largest export destination. Last year, Kenya exports to COMESA were worth Kshs 110 billion.

COMESA institutions based in Nairobi include the COMESA insurance institution- ZEP-RE, the COMESA Monetary Institute and the Regional Reference Laboratory, catering for plant protection. The headquarters of the PTA bank was located in Nairobi until 2009.
Kenya is also expected to hold a high-level conference for mobilization of resources for infrastructure development in the Northern Corridor in October this year.

The 14th COMESA summit will examine, among other things, developments on the regional integration agenda, including progress towards full implementation of the Comesa Customs Union, the tripartite cooperation between Comesa-East African Community-Southern African Development Community, and how the region can enhance the use of science and technology for the benefit of its people.

During the Summit, Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe is scheduled to hand over the Chairmanship of COMESA to His Majesty King Mswati III.

This year's COMESA Summit theme is 'Harnessing Science and Technology for Development'.
COMESA, whose current membership stands at 19 countries with a combined population of 389 million people, has an annual import bill of US$ 32 billion against an export bill of US$82 billion. To spur growth, COMESA's strategy is economic prosperity through regional integration.
The plane carrying President Kibaki and his delegation departed Jomo Kenyatta International Airport shortly after midday.

President Kibaki is accompanied by Cabinet Ministers Moses Wetangula and Chirau Ali Mwakwere and the High Commissioner to Zambia who is also the Permanent Representative to COMESA Amb. Dr. Kipyego Cheluget.

At the airport to see off the President, were the Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, Internal Security Minister Prof. George Saitoti, Defense Minister Yusuf Haji among other senior Government officials.

Source: Presidential Press Service
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SPEECH BY HIS EXCELLENCY HONOURABLE MWAI KIBAKI C.G.H., M.P., PRESIDENT AND COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF OF THE ARMED FORCES OF THE REPUBLIC OF KENYA DURING THE FOURTEENTH COMESA SUMMIT OF HEADS OF STATE AND GOVERNMENT, 31ST AUGUST, 2010, LOZITHA, SWAZILAND

Your Majesty, King Mswati III, of the Kingdom of Swaziland, our host and Chairman of the COMESA Authority,Your Excellencies,Distinguished Delegates,Ladies and Gentlemen,On behalf of the people of Kenya, I salute Your Majesty, as well as the Government and People of the Kingdom of Swaziland, for the successful hosting of this Summit. I also extend my congratulations to Your Majesty, for assuming the Chairmanship of our Organization at this critical time of the second year of transition towards the full implementation of our Customs Union.

Allow me to also applaud the outgoing Chair, His Excellency Dr. Robert Mugabe, for the able leadership that he has provided to the Organization during his tenure in the past one year. I also congratulate His Excellency Bingu Wa Mutharika, the President of the Republic of Malawi, who is also the chair of the African Union, for assuming the Vice Chairmanship of our Organization.
Your Majesty, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
The theme of this year's Summit "Harnessing Science and Technology for Development" is relevant to our development endeavours. My Government is aware of the critical role of science and technology in economic growth and sustainable development. Indeed, it is for this reason that we have implemented a wide range of measures intended to promote science and technology.

In our country, one sector in which science and technology has played a key role in generating employment and wealth, as well as reducing the cost of doing business, is the Information and Communication Technology sector.

You may be aware, for example, of an innovation in mobile telephony money transfer developed by Kenyans popularly known as "M-Pesa". This service currently has over 10 million users.
The service has enabled millions of unbanked Kenyans to conduct financial transactions both in the rural and urban areas using mobile telephones. These transactions include money transfer, payment of utility bills and mobile banking, just to name a few.

Our experience has demonstrated that scientific and technological innovations can contribute enormously to national development. We must therefore mainstream science and technology especially in our agricultural and industrial production for rapid and sustainable economic development.

Due to climate change effects on our production, more investment is now required in technology related to infrastructure for water and irrigation.
We can also do so by adopting new and modern methods of farming, including improving our traditional agriculture through innovations such as modern organic farming. It is also critical that we develop our own industries for producing fertilizer and other agricultural inputs.
I am glad to report that in Kenya, we recently launched the Agricultural Sector Development Strategy and signed the comprehensive African Agricultural Development Programme under COMESA. I wish to propose that we commit ourselves to report progress made and the tangible impacts that have resulted from this programme in our next summit in Malawi.

Mr. Chairman,
Your Majesty, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Among the many challenges the region is experiencing is inadequate infrastructure, in the areas of energy, as well as transport and telecommunications.
This has affected our competitive edge due to the high cost of doing business. I am glad to note that COMESA is working in harmony with our sister organizations, SADC and the EAC, and has come up with priority investment projects in these sectors.
Following the successful North-South Corridor Infrastructure Conference held in Lusaka in April last year, a second conference of its kind for the Northern and Central Corridors will be held in Kenya in October this year.

My Government is looking forward to hosting this important Conference as scheduled in Nairobi and I am happy to inform you that the COMESA Secretariat is already working with us to ensure its success.

We welcome all of you to come and participate in the event that will make this region more competitive and attractive. My Government will also continue to support the efforts by the EAC, COMESA and SADC to pursue the attainment of a grand Tripartite Free Trade Area, as we work towards a United Africa.

Mr. ChairmanI now take liberty to draw your attention to the volatile peace and security situation in our region as we commemorate the year of Peace and security in Africa. As we look ahead, we need to give priority to peace and security as a cornerstone for development and our regional integration endeavours. Let me particularly highlight the perennial problem of Somalia. As you are aware, the lack of a reliable and stable government in Somalia has immensely contributed to the growth of insurgent militant groups in Somalia as well as the rebirth of piracy along the Indian Ocean coastline.I therefore wish to applaud the recent decisions taken by the IGAD Member States both in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia and in Kampala, Uganda to give priority to the Somalia Peace and security issues. I invite COMESA members to play a more active role in support of AU and IGAD's efforts to restore peace in Somalia.

Mr. Chairman

With regard to the Sudan and the forthcoming referendum in January next year, I wish to applaud the leaders in the Sudan for agreeing to work together for a peaceful and prosperous country. So far positive achievements have been realized, most notably the recent general elections. I further do recognize the fact that the implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) is at a critical stage. A number of important milestones including the issues of border demarcation, among others have not yet been addressed.

I call upon all COMESA Member States to support and encourage the people of Sudan to resolve the outstanding issues in the CPA as we look forward to the holding of a peaceful referendum in the Sudan. It is my wish that the international community would appreciate the delicate situation of Sudan and act proactively. We should not isolate the people of Sudan. Let us encourage them to play their rightful role in the community of nations.

In concluding my remarks, Mr. Chairman, I wish to note that we in Kenya take pride in having remained a dedicated member of COMESA from the time of its formation as a Preferential Trade Area to the present day.

I wish to reaffirm Kenya's commitment to giving impetus to the customs union process by implementing COMESA programmes and giving the necessary support to the Secretary General and his team. We look forward to increased and shared prosperity for our region.

Thank you God bless you all.

Kenya takes its place among world’s top democracies at emotional ceremony

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SPEECH BY H.E. HON. MWAI KIBAKI, C.G.H., M.P., PRESIDENT AND COMMANDER‐IN‐CHIEF OF THE ARMED FORCES OF THE REPUBLIC OF KENYA ON THE OCCASION OF THE PROMULGATION OF THE NEW CONSTITUTION,

FRIDAY, 27TH AUGUST, 2010

EXCELLENCIES,
FELLOW KENYANS,

Today is a great day for Kenya. I salute all Kenyan citizens wherever they are. I
feel honoured to be your President at this moment because this is the most important day in the history of our nation since independence. Through a referendum, on 4th August, the year Two Thousand and Ten, we, the people of Kenya, on the basis of our own free will, overwhelmingly voted to renew our nation and usher in the Second Republic.

I have today, as President of this great republic, appended my signature on Kenya’s New Constitution, as an affirmation of the endorsement of the basic law of the land. I thank the Almighty God for guiding us through the peaceful referendum and for enabling us to witness this historic moment.

On your behalf, I wish to appreciate all those who have contributed intellectually as well as through sheer hard work and commitment to the realization of our New Constitution. I also wish to pay tribute to all those patriotic Kenyans who suffered injuries or lost their lives, freedom and property in the struggle for the New Constitution. We thank them and salute them.

Fellow Kenyans,
This moment marks the decisive conclusion of the TWENTY‐YEAR journey in search of a new constitutional order. This New Constitution is an embodiment of our best hopes, aspirations, ideals and values for a peaceful and more prosperous nation. The New Constitution gives us renewed optimism about our country and its future.

Some of us were present at the birth of the First Republic. As young leaders, we envisioned turning our newly born country into a prosperous, healthy, and developed nation in a generation or two. A lot has been achieved towards this goal, but much more work remains to be done.

The New Constitution gives our nation a historic opportunity to decisively conquer the challenges that face us today. It provides us an avenue to renew our
fight against unemployment and poverty; an opportunity to work and become a developed people and nation.

As Kenyans, we should be proud for making history, as one of the few nations in
the world that have successfully replaced their Constitution in an atmosphere of
peace. I salute the Kenyan people for their courage, patience and determination
during this long and sometimes painful journey. This Constitution will fundamentally transform our nation politically, economically and socially. Some of the changes will be immediate and we must be ready to support them. Other changes will take time. We must remain resilient and focused as we work towards their fulfillment.

The changes envisaged in the New Constitution will present some challenges along the way. However, the New Constitution gives us better structures of governance to address the challenges more efficiently. Our resolve to complete the journey of our nation’s transformation must remain firm.

As we embark on the journey of national renewal, I ask all of us to keep in mind the vision of the NEW KENYA. A New Kenya, where we will no longer have people living in absolute poverty, or facing unemployment. A New Kenya where food insecurity will be a thing of the past. We are on the march towards a New Kenya where there will be more opportunities for employment and business. A New Kenya where there is better housing, healthcare and education for our people. A New Kenya where all citizens will lead productive and dignified lives. This is the promise of the New Constitution.
This promise is possible because we are blessed to have a talented and hard working population. The New Constitution is also a promise that every Kenyan, young and old, man or woman will unleash their full potential.

This is more so because we are a people with a diverse range of cultures, languages and other sources of human inspiration. The New Constitution accords each person, group of persons and cultures a place in the process of unprecedented social cohesion and national integration.

From this day on, the people of Kenya should embrace a new national spirit; a spirit of national inclusiveness, tolerance, harmony and unity. I appeal to Kenyans, individually and collectively, to build a nation that will be socially and economically inclusive and cohesive where all have equal access and opportunities to realize their full potential.

To the youth of our nation, I wish to assure you that the New Constitutional dispensation will create opportunities that will lead to the attainment of your goals and dreams. I see in the youth of Kenya a lot of promise, energy and creativity. As a country, we have to invest in our youth to enable them to harness their potential. It is the empowered youth that will make this country globally competitive.

Fellow Kenyans,
With the promulgation of this Constitution, we must change our approach to politics. We must enhance the role of truly competitive ideas and methods of getting the country to be a developed society in the shortest time possible.
The new institutions that will come with the national and county governments need the support of all Kenyans. More importantly, let us use the opportunities being offered by the county governments to develop all corners of the country. The devolved governments must be adequately anchored in readiness to make their contribution to the attainment of VISION TWENTY‐THIRTY.
The New Constitution will also usher in new ways of conducting public affairs, particularly in the elected and appointed state and public offices. This

Constitution’s leadership code and values makes it clear that people who will present themselves for public or state offices will have to be individuals of integrity, willing to be held accountable by the people and the institutions and laws of our country.

The New Constitution ensures that current and future leaders entrench integrity and fairness in the justice system, build a world‐class public service, and promote politics of issues and ideas. The leaders must guarantee that the Bill of Rights is enforced, and establish the framework to enable the national and county governments work harmoniously.

These leaders will be expected to facilitate the success of Kenyan businesses and industries as well as put in place land ownership and use systems that promote equity and productivity. The Grand Coalition Government has provided the required leadership for delivering the New Constitution. We are ready and fully committed to providing continued leadership in the implementation of this Constitution. We have a unity of purpose in enacting all the laws required to give full effect to the New Constitution.

In conclusion, I once again salute the Kenyan people for peacefully ushering in
the New Constitution. I also thank our international friends for their support and encouragement when we sought a New Constitution. I most sincerely thank the Heads of State and Government and all other distinguished foreign guests for honouring us with their presence to witness the ushering in of our New Constitution and the birth of our Second Republic.
I am confident that this Constitution will endure and stand the test of time. The dawn of a new era is upon us. Let us seize the moment with courage because the birth of the Second Republic holds great promise for the Kenyan people.
THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS YOU ALL NA MUNGU AIBARIKI KENYA.

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SPEECH BY HIS EXCELLENCY THE VICE PRESIDENT AND MINISTER FOR HOME AFFAIRS HON. DR. STEPHEN KALONZO MUSYOKA, EGH, MP ON THE OCCASION OF THE PROMULGATION OF THE NEW CONSTITUTION OF KENYA, UHURU PARK,

NAIROBI, FRIDAY 27TH AUGUST 2010

Your Excellency Honourable Mwai Kibaki President & Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Kenya
All visiting Heads of States and Governments
The Rt. Hon. Prime Minister, Raila Odinga
The Speaker of the National Assembly Hon Kenneth Marende
The Chief Justice Hon Evans Gicheru
Cabinet Ministers and Assistant Ministers
Members of Parliament
Distinguished Guests
Ladies and Gentlemen
Wakenya Wenzangu

It is tremendous privilege and honor that I stand here and salute you all on this very special occasion as we celebrate the inauguration of a new constitution of our Republic. This day is historic. It marks the beginning of a new era in the life of our great country. And for this significant achievement, I say thank you to God, and to Fellow Kenyans - Congratulations! Hongera Sana! We have emerged triumphant.

We can now look back with satisfaction at how much we have over the past decade consulted each other about how best our society should be governed. We have in the process written and re-written numerous drafts of our constitution until we overwhelmingly approved the final edition in a public referendum early this month, paving the way to this day's celebration.
Many countries around the world have moved forward to set the stage for a brighter future for their people. For us Kenyans, this day marks the beginning of our renaissance. We have taken the first - indeed the boldest - step in transforming our country into a great nation. We are now set to recapture and restore out independence dreams and aspirations - the dreams of a united and prosperous nation. Under the new constitutional order, we will be able to reclaim our dignity as a people.

1. Justice will be guaranteed for all, while our God given national resources will be exploited for the benefit of all. And on their part, leaders will be accountable to the people of Kenya .
2. Kenyans from all walks of life will be fully on board the bus of destiny - the youth, the aged, the disabled, and women who have traditionally been marginalized will now be fully included in social and political processes as a matter of constitutional right.
3. In short, Kenyans nationalism has shifted from a dream to a reality under the new constitutional order

Fellow Kenyans,
The dawn of the new era also portends tremendously well for our national pride, prestige and image in Africa and the world. By the single act of inaugurating a new and quality constitution, we have regained our honor. We shall regain the pride our heroes and our sportsmen and sportswomen such as Kipchoge Keino, Ben Jipcho Catherine Ndereba, and Rudisha bestowed upon us and raised our flag high in the eyes of the world. We shall once more be proud to profess that we are Kenyans.

There is a sense in which our achievement in passing a new constitution marks an important beginning in the journey towards a new social and economic era for our country and our people. We must not lose sight of the reality that poverty and social distress in now the outstanding challenge that is facing us today. A lot of us have lived in and understand the enormity and dehumanizing characteristics of poverty and deprivation. Poverty hurts.

Therefore, time has come for every Kenyan to roll up his or her sleeves and work to create wealth and conquer poverty. We must create opportunities for investment in order to expand our economy and create jobs. The long queues of men and women walking from Kibera, Kawangware, Mathare, Uthiru and other suburban areas to Industrial Area and the city centre going to work in the morning must be replicated in the afternoon and evening as we move closer towards a 24 - hour economy.

This new dawn will only come once we shed off destructive, ethnic-based leadership and embrace a high moral value-based leadership style, such kind of leadership must focus on addressing economic and social needs of our people.

Finally, Fellow Kenyans
As we celebrate this great day, we should reflect upon the great sacrifices that others in the past and present have made in bringing our nation this far. We had our independence freedom fighters such as Ezekiel Apindi, Orkoiyot Koitalel Samoei, Moraa Moka Ngiti, Waiyaki wa HInga, Field Marshall Dedan Kimathi, W.W.W.Awori, Mekatilili wa Menza, and of course Mzee Jomo Kenyatta and the rest of the Kapenguria seven, among several others.

The NARC dream, personified by such luminaries as Professor Wangari Maathai, the late Kijana Wamalwa among others and the moral high ground it espoused has now, in earnest, been realized. Kenyans now, rightfully, belong.

And now I turn to Your Excellency Hon Mwai Kibaki. Thank you Mr. President. You have done us proud. You have led us all to the send republic; one that holds promise of a better future and good tidings. Mr. President you will leave behind an unassailable legacy that will, change the fortunes of this country for ever.

Wakenya Wenzangu
Katiba hii tunayozindua siku ya leo ni dhihirisho la mwanzo mpya na mwelekeo mpya wa Taifa letu la Kenya , Katiba hii itatuwezesha kufikia ufanisi mkubwa katika safari yetu ya kujenga taifa thabiti na lenye uongozi utakaoimarisha uchumi wetu na kuwanufaisha Wakenya wote popote walipo. Hasa uongozi katika vita dhidi ya adui msalia ambaye ni umaskini.
Kenya Hoiyee!
Katiba Mpya Hoiyee!
Ahsanteni sana !
Long live Kenya
God bless Kenya . God bless you all

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SPEECH BY THE RT. HON. RAILA ODINGA, PRIME MINISTER OF THE REPUBLIC OF KENYA, DURING THE ENACTMENT OF A NEW CONSTITUTION FOR KENYA AT UHURU PARK,

NAIROBI; AUGUST 27, 2010.

Your Excellency the President,
Your Excellencies Heads of State and Government
Your Excellencies the ambassadors;
Members of the diplomatic Corp;
Members of the diplomatic Corp;
Citizens and friends of Kenya:

Today, we mark the end of one journey, as we embark on the beginning of another.
On the Fourth of August this year, Kenyans stood one by one in the solitude of the polling booths and voted in favour of a new national Constitution. In that moment, so fleeting and yet so historic, decades of struggle for a better future were finally rewarded.

The Fourth of August will go down in history as the date on which we, the people of Kenya, formed a more united nation, and established the groundwork for justice, unity and the full blessings of liberty for ourselves and for posterity.

No one could have thought that out of the bitter harvest of the disputed election and the violence that pitted our people against each other just two years ago, we would be witnessing today the birth of a national unity that has eluded us for more than 40 years.
Today, we close a long chapter in our history. We put repression, exclusion and heroic struggle behind us once and for all. We have opened a clean new page in our book. On that page, we begin writing the story of an equal and just society.

We gather here now to ratify the pledge we made to ourselves and to the world, that Kenya shall redeem herself and extend the frontiers of democracy and freedom. This freedom has eluded us for more than forty years. Each time we came close to attaining it, it slipped from our grasp.
Each time we missed it; ever-greater repression seemed to replace the justice we sought.
But a time comes in the life of every nation when citizens have to choose between the status quo and a future that is full of promise.

In dedicating this Supreme Law, we pay our respects to those who walked this land before us, who saw its beauty, and who fought for fulfillment for all its citizens.

We remember Pio Gama Pinto, Josiah Mwangi Kariuki, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Alexander Kipsang Arap Muge, Masinde Muliro, George Anyona, Katama Mkangi, Jean Marie Seroney, Henry Okullu, among many others who struggled for this day to come but did not live to see it.
We honour Kenneth Matiba, Charles Rubia, Martin Shikuku, Wangari Maaithai, Chelagat Mutai, and the Young Turks of the Second Liberation who pushed us closer to this day.
These are but a few of the Kenyan patriots who sacrificed to make today a reality. At great risks to their lives, they challenged dictatorship.

They paid great prices to liberate our country from impunity. Collectively, we owe them a debt of gratitude. In the words of the late Sir Winston Churchill.... "Never have so many, owed so much, to so few..." We thank and honour our President, Mwai Kibaki, who has today signed into law what we endorsed on the Fourth of August.
In 1992, when multiparty politics were restored to our country, Mr Kibaki joined hands with the Opposition. Ten years later, he led our country into a new era and towards the Constitution that we now unveil.

We thank the Grand Coalition Government for pulling together to deliver this critical item of our National Accord. We salute the women and the youth of Kenya for their heroic participation in the rebirth of our Nation.

We owe gratitude to His Excellency Dr Kofi Anan, a true friend of Kenya, and the team of Eminent African Personalities who stood with us at our lowest moment in our history and helped us trace our way back into sanity.

We proclaim this new Supreme Law in the firm belief that lasting peace and security and prosperity for all can only come if we all enjoy freedom and justice as equals.
The promise of this new beginning will be challenged by our traditional enemies; corruption and negative ethnicity. We must be vigilant and stop corruption from stealing our future and negative ethnicity from weakening our nationhood.

To those in charge of public affairs, may public service be what it is; public service; not self-service. This new beginning must mark the end of shallow political partisanship and herald the start of mature competition among political parties.

To all the people of Kenya, I say, thank you for taking your destiny into your own hands.
Among us today are representatives of the international community, some of whom have stood with us in good and bad times as we have continued our search for these new laws. We thank you. This Constitution is our humble contribution to the culture of democracy and human rights worldwide that you represent.

It is our solemn pledge that never again shall the laws of our land divide and authorise the repression and oppression of our people.
I have never said this with a fuller heart: God bless you all, and God bless Kenya.
Thank you.

See how unruly my opponents were, or so Trade minister Chirau Mwakwere seems to be telling journalists at his new office on Wednesday. The minister defended himself against allegations of hate speech. Photo/PETERSON GITHAIGA

I was only responding to provocation from the ODM party leaders, that was Trade minister Chirau Mwakwere’s defence against claims of hate speech on Wednesday. The minister accused the vice chair of the National Cohesion and Integration Commission, Mrs Mary Onyango, of prejudice.

“I believe the good lady is shocked at my reappointment to the Cabinet or probably she has not recovered from my resounding win and the loss of my opponents whom she seems to serve,” he said.

On Tuesday, Mrs Onyango faulted Attorney General Amos Wako and Police Commissioner Matthew Iteere for not acting on recommendations to arrest Mr Mwakwere for hate speech.
Mrs Onyango said the commission had sufficient evidence to sustain a case against the Matuga MP.

“We are disappointed that our advice has not been heeded and as a commission hereby publicly reiterate our advice to the police and the honourable AG that Mr Chirau Ali Mwakwere be prosecuted for violating Section 13 and 62 of the National Cohesion and Integration Act 2008,” said Mrs Onyango.

But speaking at his office on Wednesday, Mr Mwakwere said the commission had not called him to explain his comments.
“What I said cannot be translated to mean hate speech and probably somebody is only becoming tribal. Was I angry? Yes. “Engaging in hate speech? No. I responded to hate speech by my opponents in ODM and the commission should thank me for that,” said Mr Mwakwere.
The minister said ODM leaders campaigning for Hassan Mwanyoha at Kibuyuni Shimba Hills in the Matuga by-election told some communities to be prepared for bloodshed if he was re-elected. The commission also accuses the minister of threatening returning officer Hellen Sidi, an allegation he denies.

On Wednesday, electoral commission boss Ahmed Issack Hassan said: “It is true there were complaints against the candidate and the commission followed the law to deal with the issue.”

However, he said the commission did not disqualify Mr Mwakwere because he “had heeded our warning and we did not hear of any more complaints.”

Daily Nation

By WALTER MENYA

Wednesday, August 18 2010

See the Video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bxj6XtjI3CE&feature=player_embedded

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Mwakwere denies inciting Kenyans
BY EVELYN NJOROGE

Mr Mwakwere claimed that he only spoke against his rivals who had provoked him and attempted to rig him out in the election.“I’m not aware of any hate speech made by me. What I’m seeing are clips of a sentence or two but if people understand Kiswahili, (as I said it in Kiswahili) there is nothing (there) that you can translate as hate speech,” he said.

The minister said he had not received any communication from the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) accusing him of uttering inciting remarks.In a press briefing where he was supposed to outline his plans for his new docket, Mr Mwakwere showed journalists photos and video clips of some of his challengers dishing out money to his constituents in the exercise that was marred by a series of attacks on some of the supporters.His reaction came a day after the NCIC urged the Attorney General Amos Wako to prosecute him for violating Section 13 and 62 of the National Cohesion and Integration Act 2008.

Mr Mwakwere however launched an attack on the commission saying that instead of vilifying him, the NCIC and the Interim Independent Electoral Commission should carry out thorough investigations and recommend the arrest of people he termed as the real culprits in the campaigns that saw him recapture his seat as the area MP.

The minister who was flanked by two councilors who were allegedly beaten during the campaigns said he was willing to provide ‘evidence’ that some people incited his constituents and others openly bribed them.Although Attorney General Amos Wako says NCIC’s allegations are being investigated by the police and his office, it remains to be seen whether any action will be taken against the minister who just re-joined cabinet on Monday.

Source: Capital FM
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Below are the comments of Kenyans from all walks of life who on their own came out in support of the newly appointed Trade Minister, Hon. Amb. Chiarua Ali Mwakwere, when they saw a clear witch hunt on the part of the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) particularly the commission vice-chair Ms. Mary Onyango who on Tuesday ( 17. Augu 2010) held a press conference faulting AG Amos Wako’s office and Matthew Iteere’s Kenya police of failing to act on its recommendations to arrest Hon. Mwakwere. The comments are unedited, were published by the Daily Nation, of August 17, 2010.

1. Submitted by ThuoGatunePosted August 18, 2010 12:53 PM
They have not derailed anything. The only prevented implementation of useless politically motivated, and shallow thoughts. Onyango still has the tribal mind-set, hating who-ever is in opposition with Raila.

2. Submitted by Jacobias9Posted August 18, 2010 12:28 PM
I love your comments.. usual Kenyan witch hunt. I expect more of this in the future. The same blood-thirsty mobs that chase and murder "suspects" in the streets of Nairobi also roam cyberspace thirsting for virtual blood.

3. Submitted by kiria_waraPosted August 18, 2010 10:55 AM
The eras of cover-ups, no-stones-turned and official impunity is what we overwhelmingly voted out. NCIC has every right to go public, they work for the same public, not a few elites. AG Wako must understand his days of smiling all evils away are over, as will be his tenure in an year, and work for Kenyans for a change. If Makwere is not arrested, neither should any other Kenyan submit to the law, or are there two sets?

4. Submitted by odhiamboondoroPosted August 18, 2010 08:23 AM
NCIC has every right to bring this issue to the public domain. Hon AG must be seen to be impartial in dispensing justice and not pussy footing when it comes to some cases. We had rather the speed that was used to bring the likes of Hon Machage to account be used in expediting this case lest we think there are some favourites and sacred cows.We are watching how Forever smiling will handle this.

5. Submitted by karoyoPosted August 17, 2010 10:01 PM
Dzipapa!!

6. Submitted by kiumbaniPosted August 17, 2010 06:05 PM
Its ok for NCIC to push for the prosecution of makwere for hate speech. but this should not be done in a way that depicts victimization. they should read out the whole list of warmongers to be prosecuted. otherwise we may read other motives!

7. Submitted by mureraikihiaPosted August 17, 2010 05:08 PM
I don't think Kenyans are taking the NCIC seriously as they are now playing politics. This is an ODM driven vendetta and vindictiveness at losing Matuga after much chest thumping and media hype. Why haven't we heard about Ntimama on suswa incitement et al? Even one of the Principals was is off the hook on some frivolous explanation by Kibunjia. ODM should grow up and learn to lose gracefully. Leave Mwakwere alone.

8. Submitted by ChesterPosted August 17, 2010 04:53 PM
Its funny that the Cohesion vice-chair Mary Onyango did not come out until after Mwakwere has been appointed to the cabinet. Come up! Leave Dzipapa alone.

9. Submitted by otienozPosted August 17, 2010 04:47 PM
Mrs Onyango shouldn’t engage in cheap politics of playing to the gallery. Mwakwere complained about the impartiality of the returning officer accusing her of being biased towards ODM. Is that hate speech? During referendum campaigns, NCIC only hunted down NO campaigners while turning a blind eye to inciters on YES side like Ntimama and Nkaissery. Give Mwakwere a break! Kibaki did well to ignore such busybodies in re-appointing him minister. Whom is NCIC working for? He defeated ODM and they must swallow their pride

10. Submitted by 13579Posted August 17, 2010 04:39 PM
Many Kenyans don't understand what their Laws stand for or why Laws are there to be followed.Let him alone he won the election,please arrest him,leave him alone mumezoea.This are the type of Kenyans who need to be educated on their rights and tought to understand how Law is ejected in action

11. Submitted by nmjoePosted August 17, 2010 04:23 PM
The National Cohesion and Integration Commission should understand there is a difference between, free speech, anger,insults and hate speech.They can not classify all bursts of anger and insults as hate speech.During the referendum even differing opinions were being called hate speech.The commission needs to first understand the law.People like Ntimama are still free because the commission is a political tool of intimidation that does not understand what hate speech is

12. Submitted by MishukiPosted August 17, 2010 04:09 PM
This guy has won the election, so leave him alone.Let us not play politics.We are in the next leg of implemeting the New constituion, the by-election is long gone.

13. Submitted by wanjiruwachegePosted August 17, 2010 03:41 PM
They could have done it ealier so leave Mr. Makwere alone mumezoea.

14. Submitted by rofiPosted August 18, 2010 07:26 AM
Forget Makwere, how about Gideon Moi and his father? These guys are showing open bias or a scared of some people. NCIC makes recommendations and what they recommend does not necessarily mean that people have to jump to attention. Boring

Mheshimiwa back in the Cabinet

Mwakwere back to Kenyan cabinet

Matuga MP Chirau Ali Mwakwere is back to cabinet following a mini reshuffle on Monday.
Six ministers have been moved and two assistant ministers appointed in the changes announced by President Kibaki and Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

Mwakwere is now the Minister for Trade taking over from Amos Kimunya.
Kimunya has been confirmed Transport Minister, a position he held in an acting capacity after Mwakwere lost his parliamentary seat in an election petition but later recaptured.
Dr Naomi Shaaban has been moved to the Gender ministry swapping places with Esther Murugi who takes over the Special programmes docket.

Prof Hellen Sambili has been posted to East African Community ministry previously held by Amason Jeffah Kingi who has been appointed Minister for Fisheries Development.
Paul Nyongesa Otuoma has been taken to the Youth and Sports Ministry from the Fisheries Development ministry.

The two Principals also appointed two assistant ministers. Prof Margaret Kamar (Eldoret East) is the new assistant minister for Environment.

The new Bomachoge legislator Simon Ongari is the new trade assistant minister filling the position that was left vacant by Omingo Magara who lost in a by election.
Kibaki in a statement from his Presidential Press Service said the changes take effect immediately

Source: Kenya Broadcasting Corp (KBC)
Written By:PPS , Posted: Mon, Aug 16, 2010
_________________________

Kenya's Kibaki names new trade minister in reshuffle

* Mwakwere returns to cabinet, Kimunya moved to transport
* Five other ministers swap places

NAIROBI Aug 16 (Reuters) - Kenya's President Mwai Kibaki appointed Chirau Ali Mwakwere trade minister on Monday, moving the incumbent Amos Kimunya to the Transport Ministry and shuffling five other ministers around.
Mwakwere, a key ally of the president from the coast region, was transport minister until February when he lost his parliamentary seat after a court petition. He won back the seat in a by-election.

The reshuffle, made in consultation with the Prime Minister Raila Odinga, saw the ministers of the east African community, fisheries development, special programmes, youth and sports and gender and children change portfolios.

There has been a clamour in a section of the grand coalition government that was formed to end a post-election violence in 2008 to jettison cabinet ministers who campaigned against a new constitution ratified by voters on Aug.4.

There was no mention of the ministers who opposed the new charter including Higher Education Minister William Ruto in the statement from the presidency which announced the changes. Only one minister from the "No" camp in the referendum, Naomi Shaban, was affected by the changes. She was moved from minister of state for special programmes to head the Ministry of gender, children and social development, swapping places with Esther Mathenge.

Sources: Reuters
(Reporting by Duncan Miriri; Editing by Alison Williams)
Mon Aug 16, 2010 5:20pm GMT
__________________

Kibaki, Raila in Cabinet changes

President Kibaki and Prime Minister Raila Odinga have swapped seven ministers and nine assistant ministers in a reshuffle of their Grand Coalition Cabinet.
One Assistant Minister - Jackson Kiptanui (ODM, Keiyo South) - appeared to have been the only casualty in the changes.

In the changes, Amos Kimunya moves to the Transport docket, swapping roles with Chirau Ali Mwakwere who now goes to Trade. Mr Mwakwere has been out of the Cabinet after his election as a Member of Parliament for Matuga was nullified, but he successfully fought a by-election.
Prof Hellen Sambili moves from the Ministry of Youth and Sports to be the new Minister for East African Community. At EAC, she replaces Amason Jeffah Kingi who has been moved to Fisheries Development. The former Fisheries Development Minister, Dr Paul Nyongesa Otuoma has been moved to Youth and Sports.

Ms Esther Murugi Mathenge takes over at Special Programmes after being swapped with Dr Naomi Shaban, who now becomes the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Development.
Key Ministers who recently campaigned against the new Constitution - William Ruto (Higher Education) and Samuel Phogisio (Information and Communication) - have not been affected.
The affected Assistant Ministers are Prof Margaret Jepkoech Kamar (Mineral Resources) and Simon Ongari (Trade).
A statement from the President's office said the changes take effect immediately.

By NATION Reporter
Posted Monday, August 16 2010 at 17:52

Kenyans ratify new law

Kenyans have overwhelmingly voted for a new constitution.
The constitution was endorsed by a massive 5 954 767 votes representing 67.2 percent of those who cast their votes.

Those who rejected the draft were 2 687 183 or 30.35 percent.
Releasing the results, IIEC chairman Isaak Hassan said the new constitution had been approved by more 50 percent of all the votes cast apart from garnering more than 45 5 support from all the provinces in the country.

Thus he declared that the proposed new constitution had been ratified.
Hassan commended Kenyans for coming out in large numbers to participate in the referendum and exercise their democratic rights peacefully while respecting those with divergent views.
He said the IIEC had registered more than 12.5 million voters out of which close to 8 million or 71 percent turned out to vote in the referendum.

He commended the government, media and other stakeholders who supported the organization's efforts, singling out the media for carrying out civic education on the process.
Hassan revisited the setting up of the organization as part of the reform process saying the move was aimed at restoring people's confidence in Kenya's electoral process.
The organisation's mandate should cease to exist three months after new constitution or after 24 months whichever comes earlier.

It had been mandated to conduct fresh registration of voters, create new registers, collate data, conduct civic education and carry out a referendum.

Source: KBC
Written By:Rose Kamau
___________________

Mwakwere rallies Coast behind 'Yes'

Buoyed by his recent victory in the Matuga by-election, former Transport Minister Chirau Mwakwere has urged Coast electorate to vote 'Yes' tomorrow.

Mr Mwakwere said the Proposed Constitution will help solve the land problem, while the devolved system of government will ensure resources are channelled to all communities.

The Matuga MP held rallies in Kwale town, Mackinon Road and Kinango.

"I have travelled the length and breadth of this district and I’m confident of a great ‘Yes’ vote. We are optimistic of a resounding victory,’’ said Mwakwere.

The Standard, ( August 2, 2010)
Stories by Patrick Beja, Philip Mwakio and Ngumbao Kithi

'Hongera' Hon. Amb.Chirau Ali Mwakwere

let us all concentrate in the nation building


Coastweek-- We the members of the 'Coast People Diaspora - North America' (CPD, N.A) based in Pennsylvania with chapters in the states of Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Virginia, Maryland, Texas, Kentucky, Illinois and the District of Colombia (Washington DC) convey our heartfelt congratulations and Hongera to Hon. Amb Chirau Ali Mwakwere for his re-election as the Matuga MP.

Hon. Mwakwere re-election with a respectable victory margin is a clear indication that the voters of Matuga have shown confidence in his leadership based solely on his development record and service to the constituents.

It is without a doubt that Hon. Mwakwere has been handed a commendable political capital to continue to serve Matuga, our beloved Coast province and Kenya in general. Now the campaign is over let us all concentrate in the nation building.

Omar Ali, Asc. Sec., Coast Province Diaspora North America.
coastdiaspora@gmail.com

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

Below is an unedited letter we recieved from a Mr. Bakari Gopha that he sent to Kenya' Daily Nation newspaper reporters/columinist, Mr. Mbugua Ng'ang'a and Jaindi Kisero - we have printed the letter in its entirety.

Editor,

______________________

On Wed, Jul 21, 2010 at 11:01 AM, Bakari Goph'a wrote:

Mr. Mbugua,
It was very interesting to read your open letter titled “Save us from the madness that has crept back into the matatu industry” dated July 18, 2010 addressed to your homeboy (perhaps grand-father) Hon. John Michuki where you openly pleaded with him to ask President Kibaki not to appoint Hon. Chirau Ali Mwakwere to the Transport docket. Your ended your letter saying, “…Oh, and mention to your good boss that the people have asked for a new transport minister. Tell him they don’t want a person who will “regarega style hiyo hiyo”.
You insult everyone’s intelligence by blaming Mwakwere for the Matatu madness as if Kenyans (Matatu passengers) and Traffic Police are not to blame or that they don’t play any part whatsoever to contribute to the madness.

As regards to the Matatu menace ponder this,

If the routine of the “ever rushing” Kenyans make a resolute and resolve to take a stand to stop Matatu drivers from speeding or else they will decline to board their vehicles, the drivers will be left with no choice but to abide by the rules.
If every Matatu user refuses to board an over-crowded Matatu, the so-called Matatu madness will be a thing of the past. FYI its happening in Uganda as we speak. Visit Kampla ujionee.
You and I know that if the Traffic Police do their work effectively and efficiently in enforcing the laid down traffic rules and regulations, we will not be this position.

Perhaps we should carve a brand new Ministry of Matatu from the larger Ministry of Transport. You see Mbugua, they have a Ministry of Railways in India and that of Police Services in South Africa. If we carved Ministry of Fisheries from Livestock Development, I don’t see anything wrong to have one for Matatu and to please you and your ilk and will request the President to hand it over to Michuki to manage it. What do you say?
Tell me anything something that I don’t know. Other than “managing the Matatu menace” as you and your friends in the media people praise Michuki for, what are his other achievements in the Ministry of Transport? Please enlighten me.

As a daily Likoni ferry user myself; tell me something, what did Michuki do during his tenure (at the Transport docket) put in motion the replacement of the aging ferries? Did he initiate the purchase of new ferries? Oh, I am sorry they were not breaking down during his reign and ferries are like cars that can be bought from the showrooms or the factory at a moments notice.

Credit him or not, but its under Mwakwere (at the Transport docket) that for the first time the government purchased BRAND NEW ferries, yes I said brand new ferries. During the era of Mwakwere’s predecessors the government corruptly ended up replacing old ferries with “newer” but second hand ones. Its public knowledge that some of the ferries that the government purchased were 25 years old. But all the blame of aged, sometimes dysfunctional and ever breaking down ferries was placed on Mwakwere, not Michuki, Murungaru or Mudavadi. Let me ask you - what happened to NCC Cemetery land saga? Ops, its not Mwakwere, hence it’s not important to highlight it.

All of a sudden your colleague Jaindi Kisero, one of Mwakwere’s hater on record is writing about Lamu Port being a white elephant – all being an effort to pre-empt the President from appointing Mwakwere to the cabinet. A different commentary has been written on the bankruptcy of the Kenya Railways. What is coming next – the expansion of JKIA?
When Amos Kimunya (as acting Transport minister) confirmed a fellow homeboy as Kenya Airports Authority MD Kenyans were not bombarded with commentaries, in short the media did not see the need to make it a big issue on the matter about tribalism (and I am not saying the individual is not qualified) but when Mwakwere makes appointments they become the talk of the media houses.

We haven’t seen anything written pertaining to the incompetence on the part of the Minister for Medical Services the “brilliant” Prof. Anynag Nyongo ...lack of medicines in health centers and hospitals nationwide, the misuse of funds etc. What about the non-performance of the Ministry of Lands…what has Orengo done to solve once and for all the squatters problem at the Coast and other parts of the country.

If Tomorrow Kibaki appoints Mwakwere the Minister for Water, I am sure Jaindi will make the scarcity of water in Nairobi, Mombasa and other major urban areas his pet project. Jaindi, what happned to the Cementry land saga? Is it over now.

Rosa Park: Either you lack of knowledge or you naively ignored the historical importance of the courageous act of the black woman Rosa Parks who refused to give up her seat to a white person (passenger) not in an over-crowded bus’ is preposterous to say the very least. How does the brave act of Rosa Parks – who was being discriminated because of nothing else but the colour of her skin refusal to give her seat with your own act to board an over-crowded Matatu and refusing to squeeze for another passenger to seat, compare. Do you really think Kenyans are that stupid and ignorant as yourself? Shame on you

Bakari Gopha
jumaagova@gmail.com

Mwakwere sworn in as MP

Chirau Ali Mwakwere was on Tuesday sworn in as Matuga Member of Parliament.

Mwakwere is the only member of the 10th parliament to successfully recapture his seat following a court petition.

He was escorted to take his oath of allegiance by Internal Security Minister George Saitoti and Kangundo MP Johnstone Muthama.

Mwakwere was escorted to parliament by over 400 supporters from his Matuga constituency.

The former Transport minister recaptured his seat after trouncing Hassan Mwanyoha of ODM by over 5000 votes.

Among those who failed to make it back to parliament after being thrown out of parliament by the courts include Richard Onyancha of Bomachoge and Omingo Magara of South Mugirango.

Haters cannot stop his rise

Internal security minister George Saitoti celebrates with Mr Chirau Ali Mwakwere, who had just been elected Matuga MP last Monday in a by-election. The National Cohesion and Integration Commission is investigating Mr Mwakwere over allegations of inciting hatred during the campaigns.


Newly re-elected Matuga MP Chirau Ali Mwakwere could be in trouble over alleged hate speech.

The former Transport minister recaptured the seat in the July 12 by-election after losing it in a petition.

But now the National Cohesion and Integration Commission says it is investigating him over allegations of inciting hatred during his campaigns.

NCIC boss Mzalendo Kibunja on Monday said he had received complaints from the Interim Independent Electoral Commission and three other individuals against Mr Mwakwere.

Return to Cabinet

The allegations are based on his utterances during the by-election campaigns. Mr Mwakwere’s expected return to the Cabinet could be complicated if charges are brought against him.

Last month, President Kibaki suspended Roads assistant minister Wilfred Machage after he was charged with hate speech.

Mr Kibunja said the commission was processing the information on Mr Mwakwere to determine whether it amounts to hate speech.

He did not reveal the actual content of the allegations, but assured that the outcome of the investigation will be made public soon.
As much as this is of public concern, we don’t prosecute people through the media as we have laid down procedures.”

Mr Mwakwere’s phone went unanswered when the Nation tried to reach him on Monday.

IIEC spokesperson Andrew Limo told the Nation that they are looking at video tapes to see whether there is evidence of hate speech.

Heeded IIEC warning

The commission, he added, had also warned Mr Mwakwere for allegedly threatening returning officer Hellen Sidi.“The letter from the IIEC chairman accused Mr Mwakwere of misconduct by threatening the returning officer, contrary to the electoral code of conduct and the Political Parties Act 2007.”

“IIEC is happy to note that Mr Mwakwere did heed the warning, and there was a change of attitude since no more such utterances were heard from him again,” said Mr Limo.

He defended the elections agency against criticism of failing to take action against people implicated in hate speech, saying that it is not within its mandate to do so.

In the run-up to the by-election, the Muslims for Human Rights Organisation forwarded to the IIEC a list of candidates it accused of being involved in hate speech in Matuga.

+++++++++++++++++++++
THESE ARE THE COMMENTS OF KENYANS REGARDING THE WITCH-HUNT ON MWAKWERE
Submitted by voiceofhague
Posted July 20, 2010 06:26 PM
the National Cohesion and Integration Commission is being used by ODM to frustrate pnu in re-alignment for 2012.


Submitted by MonteC
Posted July 20, 2010 06:26 PM
The speeches by Orengo, Ngilu and Mudavadi in Matuga campaigns were all full of HATE! Thats why they lost. You dont go to someones home and start 'hating' the 'bad' kid, you praise the 'good' one, damn! ( 'bad' and 'good' taken with respect to ODM perception). Or what hate is hate?


Submitted by kosulta
Posted July 20, 2010 05:01 PM
Just come to think what could have happened had Mwakwere been Kip.., from Rift ...., I bet, the results would have been nullified by now!!!



Submitted by MonteC
Posted July 19, 2010 10:57 PM
Leave Zipapa alone! Why didn't you say the same before the election results. Am sure if he lost we would not hear none of these! Who are those 3 other individuals? To be hypothetical i believe there is a foreign hand in this and woo unto you if you are not in the 'right' party

@Sunbburna,
your words say all.Its so true.That commission is becoming nuisance by itself.


Submitted by majogoo
Posted July 20, 2010 10:06 AM
Looks like this NCIC body will be misused.


Submitted by Sunburn
Posted July 20, 2010 07:03 AM
This commission is becoming a communist style dictatorial and oppressive organ. There is a need for constitutional interpretation of its now arbitrary accusations to stop it infringing on freedom of expression.

Mwakwere victory in pictures

http://www.standardmedia.co.ke/videos/?id=2000014123







Supporters of PNU candidate Ali Chirau Mwakwere celebrate outside the IIEC tallying center in Matuga on Monday night after the IIEC announced him as the winner.

How Mwakwere won Matuga

Daily NationBy MARK AGUTU and EUNICE MACHUHI
Posted Tuesday, July 13 2010 at 21:00

It was a foregone conclusion in Mombasa that former Transport minister Chirau Ali Mwakwere would be trounced in the Matuga by-election.
How, then, did he turn the tables on his opponents, particularly Orange Democratic Movement’s Hassan Mwanyoha to win convincingly?

Mr Mwakwere garnered 16,350 votes to recapture the seat he lost after the High Court nullified his December 2007 election. Running on a Party of National Unity ticket, he beat his nearest and fiercest rival, Mr Mwanyoha, by a 5,463 vote margin.

Mr Mwanyoha got 10,887 votes, Mr Kassim Tandaza of United Democratic Movement, 5,165 votes and Mr Isaac Mutula of Labour Party of Kenya 134.
While the by-election was expected to be a neck-and-neck race, featuring the two top perennial rivals, who have run against each other three times, the margin by which Mr Mwakwere carried the day was a shock to both friends and foes.

For Mr Mwakwere, it was all down to his clever tactics. Mr Mwanyoha and the other candidates did not take Mr Mwakwere seriously when he stated during the campaigns that he had “a secret weapon” that he would use to take the seat.

In an interview with the Daily Nation, which sought his opinion on why he wasn’t holding campaign rallies like his other rivals, Mr Mwakwere bragged: “I have a secret weapon which I am using against my opponents. I will teach them modern and scientific politics.”

The warning appeared lost in the fog of the numerous fiery utterances that characterised the campaign season, but the verdict of the by-election vindicated the former diplomat.

He later revealed that his entire strategy hinged on the use of 286 village committees that he formed to reach out to the entire constituency
The committees did the donkey work, selling his agenda at the grassroots. It is to teams and his entire campaign machinery that he credited with his victory.

“I am grateful to my re-election committee members led by Mwalimu Digore (a former Matuga aspirant). They have played a critical role in ensuring that I recapture the seat,” he said shortly after he was declared a winner by returning officer Hellen Sidi at Matuga Government Training Institute.

The campaign strategy aside, there were murmurs that the former minister managed to isolate his rivals by linking them to “outsiders” who were allegedly sponsoring them.

And it was not lost on observers that ODM-K threw its weight behind Mr Mwakwere, taking advantage of a significant Kamba vote in the constituency.

Mr Tandaza contested on an ODM-K ticket in 2007 and got 5,000 votes. This time the party supported Mr Mwakwere and many of those votes must have gone to him.

During his victory celebrations, Mr Mwakwere was sandwiched by two ODM-K MPS, Philip Kaloki and Johnstone Muthama.

Mr Mwakwere repeatedly told the voters at campaign rallies that he had no grudges with nor was he scared of, Mr Mwanyoha, a fellow Digo from Tiwi, but with the group campaigning for him.

“Shun outsiders”

“I am not scared about my opponent holding rallies. The more they bring the Swahilis, Arabs and Luos in Matuga, the better for me because I believe the real voters have already made their choice,” he told the Nation in an interview during the campaign season.

In the few rallies he addressed, when accompanied by PNU political bigwigs that at different times included Vice-President Kalonzo Musyoka, Internal Security Minister George Saitoti and Public Health Minister Beth Mugo, Mr Mwakwere never lost an opportunity to rally his Digo community to his side while asking them to shun “outsiders”.

Mr Musyoka, Prof Saitoti and Mrs Mugo lured the voters with promise of the “flag”, telling them that the Transport ministry docket was Mr Mwakwere’s for the taking once they re-elect him.
This is the reason President Kibaki had not filled it, and instead handed it to Trade Minister Amos Kimunya to oversee in an acting capacity.

The PNU scheme paid off and on Monday night running into Tuesday morning, Mr Mwanyoha and the other two candidates saw their hope of dislodging Mr Mwakwere gradually go up in smoke as the results from the 101 polling stations started trickling in.

ODM was magnanimous in defeat, saying, it was still popular even after losing a seat in Nyanza and failing to capture a new one in Matuga.

Lands minister James Orengo, who has been in Matuga for the past two weeks spearheading Mr Mwanyoha’s campaigns, said he was confident of a win in 2012, and urged the electorate to work with the new MP.

PNU celebrate Mwakwere's win as divided ODM cries foul

By Standard Team

President Kibaki's Party of National Unity celebrated Chirau Ali Mwakwere’s triumph in Matuga as Orange Democratic Movement nursed political scars from the race.

PNU swam in joy as the nation woke up to the news Mr Mwakwere had trounced Hassan Mwanyoha from Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s ODM by 5,463 votes — eclipsing what was earlier billed to be a tight race between PNU and ODM.

The huge gap, coming after ODM failed to reclaim its South Mugirango seat, and which dashed Raila party’s hopes of winning Matuga to replenish its numbers in Parliament, is bound to stir interest on the possible impact of the divisions in the Orange party.



Chants of "Dzipapa! Dzipapa! Lamkani kudzecha," (Big shark, wake up, it’s dawn)," broke the early morning silence in Matuga as Interim Independent Electoral Commission announced the former Transport minister garnered 16,350 votes.

‘Dzipapa’ has been Mwakwere’s campaign slogan for popularising the Coast-based Shirikisho Party of Kenya, which is a PNU affiliate.

Mr Mwanyoha was second with 10,887 while United Democratic Movement (UDM) candidate Kassim S Tandaza garnered 5,165. Isaack Mutula of the Labour Party of Kenya (LPK) got 134 votes.
A beaming Mwakwere told journalists outside the counting hall, "This victory defines peace, unity and co-existence among Matuga people, and I dedicate it to the voters."

He claimed the victory was a triumph for the people of Matuga and Kenya. He also gave credit to Vice- President Kalonzo Musyoka and PNU chairman George Saitoti who campaigned for him in Matuga.

Mwakwere was driven to his rural home at Ziwani, on the outskirts of Kwale town in a convoy of 30 vehicles that disrupted early morning business.

PNU MPs Johnstone Muthama, Philip Kaloki (Kibwezi MP), and PNU Executive director Jasper Nyamboga, and party activists Stanley Livondo and Charles Karigithu, and Kanu’s Ali Mwatsahu were with him at the Matuga constituency tallying centre.

Mwakwere’s triumph is attributed to several factors that include poor strategies by ODM, Mwakwere’s marshalling of the ‘local’ vote against the so-called originally non-coastal groups, as well as his use of the vacant seat in the Cabinet as one reserved for him by Kibaki. The Matuga by-election and the results of several civic by-elections could be a wake-up call for ODM, which is split into two groups; one led by Raila and another by Higher Education Minister William Ruto.

ODM, which has been the party of choice in the Rift Valley, lost three seats civic seats in the province, which is also the bedrock of the ‘No’ team.

Those who supported Mwakwere argue ODM’s campaign style in Matuga went against the public mood. During the campaigns, ODM lost the propaganda war and actually played into PNU’s trap.

Those campaigning for the former Transport minister promised the residents of Matuga Mwakwere would retain his Cabinet position if they re-elected him.

In trying to counter this promise, ODM told voters they should be voting for an MP and not a Cabinet minister. During one of the final rallies, Deputy Prime Minister and ODM deputy leader Musalia Mudavadi told the residents the flag was not important.Ministerial flag

Immediately the rally ended, Mudavadi’s statement was the talk of the constituency and locals greeted it with the refrain "kwanini yeye asipanguzie bendera yake uso?" (Why can’t he use his ministerial flag as a handkerchief?).

The choice of ODM point men dispatched to Matuga also worked against the party candidate. Kisauni MP Hassan Joho, who is also ODM organising secretary, led the campaigns for Mwanyoha.

But the party’s activities were seen by the locals as an attempt by Mombasa tycoons to install a leader of their choice in Matuga.

"The interference of the Mombasa tycoons was seen as a ploy to later use the ODM candidate for their own interest and not those of the Digo people," said Shirikisho Party of Kenya Secretary General, Yusuf Abubakar. Even though Prime Minister Raila Odinga was sick during the last weeks of the campaign, the party’s choice of sending leaders who were mainly from the western part of Kenya also portrayed the divisions and level of indifference in ODM.

The absence of Tourism Minister Najib Balala whose Mvita constituency is a stone-throw away from Matuga, also spoke volumes about the ODM’s preparedness and unity.

Worse still, it is believed the faction led by Ruto was pulling in a separate direction, although silently. This team did not come out to support Mwanyoha, and were not even seen in Matuga.

The loss in Matuga comes hot on the heels of ODM’s defeat in South Mugirango last month. Even though the candidate supported by PNU during the South Mugirango by-election also lost, ODM was the biggest loser because it had won the seat in the 2007General Election.

Even though Mwakwere was the one who was complaining about the impartiality of the Interim Independent Electoral Commission officials during the campaigns in Matuga, on Monday night as the results trickled in, showing ODM had trailed in almost all 101polling stations, Orange officials cried foul. They claimed the campaigns were not fair and were rocked by bribery. "ODM had complained but the party was ignored," Joho said.

But while declaring Mwakwere the winner, Matuga returning officer Hellen Sidi Kahindi defended IIEC, saying it was impartial. "The results I am about to announce are not manufactured by IIEC. They reflect the decision of Matuga people," she said.


Coast Parliamentary Group Chairman Benedict Gunda (ODM) described the loss as unfortunate and also alleged money was ‘poured’. "PNU used too much money on the last days of the campaigns, and this is why we lost," he claimed.

Before they left the tallying hall shortly after midnight on Tuesday, ODM Secretary General, Anyang’ Nyong’o alleged the by-election was marred with voter malpractices.

"While the campaigns towards the election proper were generally peaceful, there were instances where PNU side resorted to bad utterances that bordered on hate speech and massive voter bribery," Nyong’o alleged.

"We shall press upon the Government to investigate these utterances and take stern action against those found to be culpable," Nyong’o said.

Lands Minister, James Orengo, who was also in Matuga, said ODM was still popular despite the loss.

Mwakwere recaptures Matuga seat

Former Transport Minister Chirau Ali Mwakwere has been re-elected as Matuga MP after winning Monday by-election.

Mwakwere who was vying for the seat on a PNU ticket garnered 16,350 votes against his closest opponent Hassan Mohamed Mwanyoha's 10, 887 votes.

Coming in third was United Democratic Movement's Kassim Sawa Tandaza who got 5,165 votes while the youthful new comer Isaac Mutula Masila of Labour Party of Kenya got a paltry 134 votes.

A shattered Mwanyoha could barely speak as he conceded defeat before the last two ballot boxes were counted at about 4.00 am Tuesday.

Mwanyoha was tipped to win the by election as a result of the intense campaign done in the two last weeks and the euphoria over the ODM campaign antics led by party heavy weights.

He was shocked when Mwakwere took the lead right from the start as he and many ODM coast MPs had taken it for granted that he would walk over the election.
Local residents were also surprised by Mwakwere's performance especially when he triumphed in centers known to be Mwanyoha/ ODM strongholds.

The gap between Mwakwere and Mwanyoha who have been rivals has in the last two elections been hundreds of votes with both scoring just over 8,000 votes.

In this by election however Mwakwere has silenced his critics by trouncing his closest opponent with over 5,400 votes.

On realizing he had lost the seat, Mwanyoha left the counting hall soon after ODM party officials Ministers Anyang' Nyong'o and James Orengo accepted the results.

Announcing the results, the Returning Officer Sidi Kahindi said that the results reflected the decision of the Kwale people.

IIEC relayed the results to the tallying centre at the Lilian Towers Nairobi using the new electronic technology.

Meanwhile, Mwakwere thanked the people of Kwale for electing him and therefore choosing peace among the different communities living in the area.

He said that the people of Kwale had made their own choice for a leader without succumbing to external pressure exerted on them during the campaign period.

MPs Philip Kaloki and Johnstone Muthama and PNU party activist Stanley Livondo were also present to congratulate the MP-elect.

With his re-election, Matuga residents can only wait and see Mwakwere will get back his cabinet seat that is has remained vacant soon after losing his parliamentary seat through an election petition filed by voter Juma Mwakwesi.

Mwakwere back in Parliament

Mwakwere re-elected Matuga MP


Mr Ali Chirau Mwakwere has recaptured his Matuga Parliamentary seat. This means the Matuga MP-elect could be headed back to his yet to be occupied Cabinet office at Transcom House following his strong show at the by-election.

Mwakwere, a PNU candidate, garnered 16,350 votes to beat his closest rival, Mr Hassan Mwanyoha of ODM who secured 10,887 votes.

With his re-election, Matuga residents can only wait and see if Kibaki would give Mwakwere back his seat — something that he used to fire up his campaigns.
Coming in third place after Mwanyoha was UDM candidate Kassim S Tandaza who secured 5,165 votes.

The former Transport Minister, whose election was nullified by court in February, campaigned for re-election on the platform of continuity and promotion of Digo ‘nationalism’ and communal interest. He also spiced up his campaigns with a plea for re-election for the sake of retaining the ministerial flag, which he told voters had been reserved for him.

The votes were counted on site and relayed to the tallying centre using the new electronic technology Interim Independent Electoral Commission was testing in Matuga.

Except for two isolated incidents of violence, the by-election was trouble free to the finish line. In the first case a former Malindi civic leader was shot and seriously injured by suspected political hirelings. In the second case, five people were roughed up and frisked on the night preceding elections. The attackers in top-of-the-range vehicles waylaid them as they drove to Ukunda from Kwale and burned their Subaru car.

March 2010

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x8nm7zXvjX0&feature=youtube_gdata&autoplay=1



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JPT3ttCou8s&NR=1

Photo Gallery

February

President Mwai Kibaki is entertained by traditional dancers at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Nairobi on arrival from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia where he attended the 14th Africa Union summit.
President Kibaki returns from Addis Ababa

Nairobi , February 02, 2010
President Mwai Kibaki returned home this afternoon from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia where he attended the 14th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government.


While in Addis Ababa, President Kibaki addressed the AU summit and challenged African countries to continue developing national and regional strategies to climate change.


Noting that the severe effects of climate change threatened the very survival of nations and mankind, the President underscored the need for developed countries to agree on a legally binding agreement that would ensure stabilization of green house gases at levels that minimize global warming.


During the visit, President Kibaki also met and held talks with Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi. The two leaders instructed their respective Ministers of Energy to expedite the inter-connection of the power grids of the two countries.


The plane carrying President Kibaki and his entourage touched down at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport shortly before 4.00 p.m. and was received by Transport Minister Chirau Ali Mwakwere, Assistant Minister Orwa Ojode, Chief of General Staff Gen. Jeremiah Kianga and the Head of Public Service and Secretary to the Cabinet Amb. Francis Muthaura among other senior Government officials.

January 2010

Tanzania And Kenya Seeking
To Bolster Bilateral Relations

Kenya Vice President Musyoka urged the leaders in the
region to reduce poverty levels among the residents


NAIROBI,(Xinhua) -- Kenya and Tanzania have discussed a wide range of issues to boost bilateral relations and help deepen East Africa regional integration.

The discussion covered the up-scaling of cross border investment, joint marketing of East Africa as a single tourism destination, standardization of road design, harmonization of axle road regimes, joint wildlife conservation and water border resource policies.

Theft of motor vehicles smuggled across borders, cross-border human and drug trafficking and cattle rustling were also topics in the hour-long bilateral talks held on Tuesday at Serena Hotel , Nairobi .

Kenya Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka who led the Kenyan delegation to the talks assured that the goals set by the leaders of the East African union will be realized.

Musyoka urged the leaders in the region to partner in various projects in order to reduce the poverty levels among the residents, saying unemployment levels were very high among the youths.

Tanzanian Vice President Ali Mohamed Shein headed his country's delegation comprising one minister and four members of parliament.

He said the technical teams working on the implementation of the Joint Commission for Cooperation ( JCC ) should fast track the process so that the JCC can be implemented fully.

He said the outstanding issues leading to free movement of tourists between Tanzania and Kenya will be addressed.

Kenya 's Transport Minister Ali Mwakwere praised the partner-ship between Kenya Airways and Precision Air of Tanzania, saying the two airlines complimented each other to make air transport in the region efficient.

He also said Ports of Dar-es-Salaam and Mombasa have an understanding to allow goods to be off-loaded either in Dar-es- Salaam or Mombasa when there is congestion in either port.

Kenya 's Roads Minister Franklin Bett proposed the standardization of roads design and axle road regime for the region in order to ensure that transportation of goods across the region is harmonized.

Source: Coastweek:
http://www.coastweek.com/3305-14.htm


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Kenya, Tanzania to exchange research findings

Written By:VPPS , Posted: Thu, Jan 28, 2010


Kenya and Tanzania will explore means of bilateral cooperation in the fields of research and development, Vice President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr. Ali Mohammed Shein has said.

Dr. Shein stressed on the need for exchange of research findings among institutions in the region for the benefit of the citizens of the two nations.

He at the same time pointed out that it was crucial for patent regional research findings and enhance marketing strategies for locally manufactured drugs and vaccines emanating from local findings.

The Tanzanian Vice President made the remarks Wednesday at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) on his three day official tour in Kenya.

Dr. Shein who is accompanied by his wife Mrs. Mwanamwema Shein and a host of 18 member delegation which included Cabinet Ministers, Senior Government officials and CEO's of various private sector institutions.

The VP later, toured the Sameer Industrial Park, the Safaricom call centre along Mombasa Road, and the ongoing Athi River, Namamga, Arusha, Mombasa Highway Interchange road construction.

The visiting Tanzanian leader and his delegation was thereafter hosted for a luncheon by the host government in the presence of his Kenyan counterpart, Mr. Kalonzo Musyoka, Minister for Information and Commutations, Mr Samuel Poghisio and Public Service Minister, Mr. Dalmas Otieno.

Among the dignitaries present included President of Southern Sudan, Dr. Salva Kiir and several members of the diplomatic Corps.

Dr. Shein along the Tanzanian delegation later left Nairobi for Mombasa, where he is scheduled to visit several development projects including Bombolulu Cultural Centre, the Kenya Ports Authority and Kengen Power Station among others.

On Tuesday, the Tanzanian delegation had an extensive tour of KARI Muguga, World Agro forestry Centre, Gigiri, the on-going construction of the Nairobi -Thika Highway and Yatta Farm in Yatta district.

During the tour, Dr. Shein was accompanied by Ministers Frankilin Bett (Roads) and Mr Ali Chirau Mwakwere (Transport).

They were later joined by Mr. Musyoka.





Kari earns top marks from Dar
East African Community partner states have been urged to contribute funds to upgrade the Kenya Agricultural Research Institute into a regional body.

Speaking after touring the institute on Tuesday, visiting Tanzanian Vice-President Ali Mohamed Shein praised the research work at the centre, noting that the equipment at the institute would adequately serve the region.

He also challenged agricultural researchers in the five partner states to forge close working relations to develop crop varieties that will withstand the region’s climatic conditions and ensure food security.

“From what I have seen today, anyone who wants quality research in agriculture does not need to go far. Just come to Kari,” he said.

Food sufficiency

Mr Shein said that his country would cooperate with Kenya in agricultural research to ensure food sufficiency for the people of the EAC.

“Our two countries have committed to continue working closely on areas of common interest such as agriculture,” he said.

Dr Shein commended the partner states for increasing budgetary allocation to agriculture from 0.01 per cent to one per cent. “This is a lot of money, but we still need more to counter the effects of climate change and other challenges,” he said.

Kari is the most advanced agricultural research centre in East Africa and agriculture still remains the economic backbone of the five EAC partner states.

Peak of famine

The Tanzanian Vice-President was accompanied by Transport minister Chirau Ali Mwakwere, Agriculture assistant minister Gideon Ndambuki, the Home Affairs permanent secretary, Dr Ludeki Chweya, and the director of Kari, Dr Ephraim Mukisira.

Mr Ndambuki thanked Tanzania for accepting to export maize to the country at the peak of the famine last year.


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Tour operators back charging of ferries fee

Transport minister Chirau Ali Mwakwere suggested over the weekend that people who board the ferries pay a shilling each so that Kenya Ferry Services can purchase new vessels.

The newly elected Kenya Association of Tour Operators (Kato) Coast branch chairperson, Ms Monika Solanki, said that the proposal could work if commuters get better services at the Likoni channel.

Be willing

Ms Solanki said ferry users would be willing to pay the fee if it were put to good use.

“Paying for ferry services is not an issue. Our major concern is whether the funds collected will be managed well,” the official said.

She, however, wondered why the public was being called upon to raise funds for new ferries, yet the government set aside cash for such uses.

Mr Mwakwere said if ferry passengers pay Sh1 per trip, then Kenya Ferry Services could raise Sh6 million a month.

There have been frequent complaints about ferry services at the Likoni channel due to frequent breakdowns.

Ms Solanki was elected unopposed as the chairperson of Kato in Coast region

She takes over from Ms Tasneem Adamji, while Mr David Ngunjiri was elected as the region’s vice-chairman.

Ms Solanki said some of the issues they would like the government to address urgently include the implementation of the Dongo Kundu by-pass to ease ferry woes.

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RVR managing director Roy Puffet and Kenya Transport minister Ali Mwakwere and Eng. John Byabagambi Minister for works Uganda (Right) during the launch of the Rift Valley Railways in Nairobi.





KENYAN GOVT TO ESTABLISH ECONOMIC ZONE AROUND MOMBASA

MOMBASA, KENYA, Jan 25 (NNN-KNA) --

The Kenyan government, through the Ministry of Transport, intends to establish an exclusive economic zone ten miles north and south of th Indian Ocean port city of Mombasa by establishing road by-passes and mini-ports in an effort to attain goals enshrined in the country's Vision 2030.Transport Minister Chirau Ali Mwakwere says the government, through the National Economic and Social Council and the Directorate of Vision 2030, has already hired an infrastructure consultant from Singapore to carry out a feasibility study in the area stretching from Diani in Kwale district to Mtwapa in Kilifi district on how to enhance infrastructural development to drive the development blueprint forward.

Mwakwere was speaking over the weekend while conducting a group of technocrats from his ministry led by the ministry's Permanent Secretary, Dr. Cyrus Njiru, the Executive Secretary of the Vision 2030 directorate, Dr. Mugo Kebati, the Chief Executive of the National Economic Council, Dr. Julius Muia, and the Singapore based consultant, Dr. Victor Koh, on a tour of the area where the proposed Dongo-Kundu by-pass to link Mombasa island to the mainland and a site in Mtwapa for mooring boats and ships.The minister said the government would soon release a blueprint of the infrastructural projects identified to jump-start the realisation of Vision 2030 in Coast Province, especially in the areas of tourism, shipping, road infrastructure and enhanced business opportunities for Kenyans outside the country.Mwakwere said since Mombasa Island could no longer hold most of the infrastructural development being envisioned in the development roadmap, there was a need to explore land outside the island, especially the land immediately outside the Likoni suburbs and Mtwapa.He said through the economic blueprint of Vision 2030, the government also intended to put up mini cities and resorts outside major urban centres like Mombasa and Nairobi in an effort to decongest the central business ditricts (CBDs) of the country's big towns.These mini cities, the minister said, would have schools, well-paved and lighted streets and business centres equipped with office infrastructure in order to discourage the movement into CBDs in the morning which causes traffic snarl-ups and loss in business hours.--

NNN-KNA


The Likoni Ferry.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kzV-RKz-FRk&feature=channel



Govt to establish by-passes, mini-ports

Written By:KNA , Posted: Sun, Jan 24, 2010

The government, through the ministry of Transport, intends to put an exclusive economic zone ten miles north and south of Mombasa by establishing road by-passes and mini-ports in an effort to attain the goals enshrined in the Vision 2030.

The minister for Transport, Chirau Ali Mwakwere, said the government, through the National Economic and Social Council and the Directorate of the Vision 2030, has already hired an infrastructure consultant from Singapore to do a feasibility study in the ten mile area stretching from Diani in Kwale district to Mtwapa in Kilifi district on how to enhance infrastructural development to drive the development blueprint forward.

Mwakwere was speaking while conducting a group of technocrats from his ministry led by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Cyrus Njiru, the Executive Secretary of the Vision 2030 directorate, Dr. Mugo Kebati, the Chief Executive of the National Economic Council, Dr. Julius Muia and the Singapore based consultant, Dr.Victor Koh, on a tour of the area where the proposed Dongo-Kundu by-pass to link Mombasa island to the mainland South coast and a site in Mtwapa for mooring boats and ships.
The Transport minister said the government will soon give a blue print of the infrastructural projects identified to jump start the realisation of the Vision 2030 in Coast province especially in the areas of tourism, shipping, road infrastructure and enhanced business opportunities for Kenyans in the outside world.

Mwakwere said since Mombasa Island could no longer hold most of infrastructural developments being envisioned in the development roadmap, there was need to explore land outside the island especially the land immediately outside the Likoni suburbs and Mtwapa.
He said through the economic blueprint of the Vision 2030 the government also intends to put up mini cities and resorts outside major urban centres like Mombasa and Nairobi in an effort to decongest the CBD's of the country's big towns.

These mini cities, the minister said, will consist of schools, well paved and lighted streets and business centres equipped with office infrastructure in order to discourage movement into the CBDs in the morning which causes traffic snarl ups and loss in business hours.
The Transport minister reiterated that the Kenya Ferry Services will soon withdraw two dilapidated ferries from the Likoni crossing channel for major rehabilitation through purchase of new engines once the two ferries which are being awaited from Germany this March are deployed.

''The old vessels, which were imported from Singapore 20 years ago, will be temporarily grounded to give engineers time to source for engines whose spare parts are available in the open market since the ones in use are no longer being manufactured,'' said the minister.
He said once the new ferries start operations and the old ones rehabilitated fully, the nightmare being experienced by commuters and motorists at the busy channel will be a thing of the past.

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NEW KENYAN RAILWAY “ON COURSE”


Posted on 22 January 2010 by Railways Africa Editor


Kenya’s planned new standard gauge railway is “on course”, transport minister Chirau Ali Mwakwere says. Evelyn Njoroge of Nairobi-based Butterfly News quotes him explaining that the agreement with Rift Valley Railways (RVR) initially blocked the proposed development. It stipulated that the two governments could not construct a line within 35km on either side of the existing railway. Eventually agreement was reached that a new line may be constructed without restrictions.
It had been hoped to start building the new line in June 2009, “after the government pledged to fast-track the signing of the bilateral agreement with Uganda to ensure that it becomes operational in the next two to three years,” Njoroge writes. Mwakwere, she added, is confident that the project is “on schedule”. Some three months ago, advertisements had been placed, inviting companies to submit expressions of interest, and bids are currently being evaluated. evaluating the bids,” he said. Certain firms, the minister said, “had volunteered to conduct the feasibility study and design at their own cost.”
According to Njoroge, the government is seeking “a private partner to help it raise the Sh196 billion (about $US2.5bn) it requires to fund the new railway whose total construction costs are estimated at Sh300 billion (about $US4bn). Mwakwere said that the line will initially be diesel-electric powered but this would be switched to a fully electric line once the country’s energy capacity and supply is reliable.
“The line will also extend from Kampala to the north past Gulu and into Southern Sudan and to Kigali, Rwanda and Bujumbura to the west.”

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SINGAPORE SIGNS AIR SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH KENYA


On 18 January 2010, Singapore and Kenya signed an Air Services Agreement (ASA) at the Istana, Singapore. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Prime Minister of the Republic of Kenya, the Right Honourable Raila Odinga witnessed the signing of the ASA by Singapore’s Minister for Transport and Second Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Raymond Lim, and Kenya’s Minister for Transport, Honourable Ambassador Chirau Ali Mwakwere.

2 Under the Air Services Agreement, air carriers from Singapore and Kenya have the flexibility to operate any number of air services between and beyond both countries, albeit with some restrictions on passenger services by Singapore carriers between Kenya and selected third countries.

3 “This Agreement is a reflection of the warm ties between Singapore and Kenya, and underscores the commitment of both countries to cooperation on civil aviation and the liberalisation of air services”, said Minister Lim. He added, “With this agreement, Singapore and Kenyan air carriers will now have the flexibility to plan their commercial operations to capitalise on market opportunities in both countries.”

4 At present, Singapore Airlines Cargo operates three weekly freighter services to and beyond Kenya.

Issued by: Ministry of Transport, Singapore
Date: 18 January 2010