Hundreds of people have been killed in post election violence and there are fears that the chaos might take a tribal dimension and spread to other pars of the country. The violence followed the announcement of the presidential election results by Electoral Commission of Kenya.

The violence, which began in Kenya's Rift Valley region, has now spread to Nairobi and other urban centers. The tit for tat tribal killings have been particularly bad in the western town of Eldoret and the larger North Rift. There opposition supporters are accusing ECK of rigging the election in favour of the incumbent.

A vandalized fence is found at Kanyuambora youth playground. Vandalism of materials will cost CDF loss of thousands of shillings in replacement costs. Analysts say lack of effective surveillance and political sabotage is to blame.

The party of the National unity is working towards ensuring they front one presidential hopeful come 2012 general elections.

Speaking in Embu over the weekend, the Minister for Energy Kiraitu Murungi who is also the party’s secretary general said consultations were on to get Martha Karua and Mutava Musyimi in the party.

Kiraitu said the candidate does not have to necessarily come from the Mt Kenya region, but the candidate who will emerge the winner during the nominations will be supported by all.

He said if I, Saitoti, Kalonzo, Uhuru or any other candidate wins, all the voters in the region will be mobilized to support him.

He said there will be many positions for majority of the leaders to go for and therefore the need to support one candidate for the presidential race in the next general election.

Kiraitu said a meeting held recently at the Pan Afric hotel in Nairobi with the Central Kenya Parliamentary group resolved that no new party should be formed in the region.

He said the region already has over 27 political parties and forming another one would only result in creating more confusion for the voters in the region.

Kiraitu said the doors are open for Gachoka MP and Narc Kenya leader Martha Karua to join the alliance before the preparations for the nominations to come up with a single presidential candidate.


Siakago MP Lenny Kivuti who had accompanied the minister during the fundraising in aid of Kiangima girls said most of the leaders in the region have agreed to go the PNU alliance way.

He said the nominations will be free and fare for all and therefore no one should have preconceived ideas that the system to be deployed would favour particular persons.

He said they were now consulting with the leaders grass root to ensure the idea has massive support from the people.

The legislator said the biases the region has had in the past should be put aside adding the leaders must be accommodative of one another for the betterment of the region.

There is nothing more satisfying than grimy feet at the end of the day. It shows one has been working. This was taken at Mbarwari, Mutitu during a visit by area MP and the Constituency Development Committee Fund.

MP Lenny Kivuti and members of Siakago Constituency Development Fund Committee being shown a CDF funded classroom at Kambaru Primary School, Mbeere North. CDF has funded several social-economic projects in the constituency.

MP-elect Hon. Lenny Kivuti has established three new constituency regional offices. In move that has got high approval rate from community leaders and the residents down and especially those who live far away from Siakago market where the main offices is located, the lawmaker said the new offices will receive correspondents from constituents which the officers in charge will forward to the office of the MP.

He said the offices will bring services closer to all the people of Siakago and will reduce the cost of service delivery and at the same time offer the best chance for the residents to communicate with their Member of Parliament.

The offices are located at Kanyuambora, Kirie, and Ishiara markets. Constituency office staff have been employed and deployed to those offices. The offices will handle bursary applications, MP’s appointment, supervision and coordination of development activities as authorized, give information on Constituency Development Fund (CDF) projects status, community mobilization and other communication needs of the constituents.

The launch of the facilities is a break from the past where those who needed services from the office of the MP or and those from far areas such as Mutito or Kogari had either to travel to Main office in Siakago or make contacts through some people often at a cost. Kivuti instructed all constituency staff to serve give wananchi services regardless of political, religious, social or other forms of affiliation and be good representatives of the office of the MP

Siakago – HIV/AIDS services must be integrated with sexual and reproductive health services if the goal of reducing HIV transmission is to succeed. Siakago Member of Parliament Lenny Kivuti said this when he meet youth leaders from his constituency on Saturday.”

“While we have received proposals from some locations, others have not. We need to step up prevention efforts as well as provide sexual and reproductive health services that meet the needs of people living with HIV,” says Hon Kivuti.

Safina’s parliamentary candidate for Siakago Lenny Kivuti held a major political rally at Ishiara over the weekend. Huge crowds waited for hours under the scorching sun to watch his chopper and may be to catch a glimpse of the candidate as he made his way to the main dais.

The chopper carrying the candidate landed at the market grounds amid chants by residents. For a few minutes, the ground nearby was covered in clouds of dust that momentarily formed part of the dry and scenic market.

Embu,

The misguided belief that the government will provide funding for the construction of the new county headquarters in the country is counter productive.

Siakago MP Leny Kivuti speaking in Embu yesterday said the belief has led to many of the leaders in the county scouting for new places in total disregard of the existing structures in order to attract the funding.

The MP said leaders should first consider the existing structures before they embark on determining new county headquarter of the county.

He said a meeting to deliberate on the Embu - Mbeere County headquarter is scheduled for next week and urged the local leaders to put into consideration the already established structures before jumping into conclusions.

Kivuti said leaders should stop inciting the locals over the issue but should rather advice them on the best way forward.

He said it is not a question of the government funding the development of the counties but what the county can be able to generate to sustain development in their area of coverage.

Kivuti said county governments must focus on their own strength before they go for benefits from the outside.

He said leaders must come together and develop more strategic options to improve the county rather than inciting community members over the positioning of the county headquarters.

Siakago Constituency Development Fund Committee has released 11.6 million for development projects in the constituency. The two day exercise led by led by CDFC chairman and area Member of Parliament Hon. Lenny Kivuti, cheques were released to various Project Management Committees (PMCs) so as to undertake diverse development initiatives.

The money to be disbursed in two phases will greatly boost development in the constituency and Mbeere North district. Phase One, undertaken in the first week of March 2010, involved the distribution of cheques worth Ksh 5.1 million.

These included cheques totalling Ksh 2,335,900 going to the education sector for various construction works. Beneficiary schools here included Gikuyari Secondary School, Kathagutari Secondary School, Nthigirani Primary School, Karigiri Primary School, Gitii Secondary School, Mugwanjogu Primary School, Nthigirani Primary School Kyenire Secondary School and Kune Mixed Day Secondary School.

Apart from Gitii, all the other secondary schools are new schools being started and constructed under the proposal and general guidance of CDFC. In the industrialization sector, cheques worth Ksh 1,450,000 were distributed to Kamumu Polytechnic, Muchonoke Polytechnic, Kathanje Polytechnic, and Kanyuambora Polytechnic for purposes of finalizing constructions on the training facilities for wananchi especially women and the youth. The sector is expected to increase development opportunities to the residents in the district.

Cheques totalling Ksh 1,115,000 were distributed for various development projects, some of which were under emergency applications. These cheques went to Mutitu A.P. Lines, Kiambeere Police Station, Kanyuambora Dispensary, District Officer’s Office Ishiara, Kamumu Health Centre, Kanyangi Dispensary, Gatiruri Dispensary, Kiang’ombe Chief’s Office, Iria Itune Chief’s Camp and Kiogogo Dispensary.

Phase Two of the cheques distribution worth Ksh 6.5 million shall be undertaken before the Easter holiday in April 2010.

A psychiatrist has advised youth in Embu County, where miraa is currently spreading fast as a cash crop, to avoid consuming it since it damages the mental health of the consumer. Dr Njagi Kumantha has asked the youth to grow the crop for export purposes and not for consumption. He said although the crop has been fetching good money for area residents its abuse has brought about destruction of the mental health of many people.

Dr Kumantha who is also a governor seat aspirant in the Embu county said miraa was grown in the area to replace coffee after the sector collapsed some years back. He was speaking at Gikuuri primary school in Embu East district where he and his wife Ann handed over school fees and uniform for Brian Mukundi, an orphan.

An American friend to Dr Kumantha has offered to educate the standard six the boy. He said it is also disappointing to realise that many parents in the area are asking their children to work in miraa farms and thus contributing to their dropping out of school. “Education will never rot away or get finished like money. It is thus very important to invest the money got from miraa in education of children since the knowledge obtained will be of long term benefit,” Dr Kumantha said.

He said boys are dropping out of school to work in miraa farms. He said the number of girls in schools far outweighs that of boys, a scenario that is quite alarming and should be addressed with the urgency it deserves. He called on the local people to invest a lot in education as an educated community is bound to attain more development than the uneducated one owing to the availability of experts in various fields. He asked the local community to consider people who are educated, development conscious, honest and transparent when electing leaders in the next general election.

Alleluia! Jesus is alive! That is the consoling fact! Corruption, election rigging, armed robbery, political and religious violence all put together cannot change that! Power failure, bad roads, poor education and health systems, global economic meltdown, immorality, man’s inhumanity to man and more,, all lumped together cannot stop the work of God.

Dear People of God, Christianity is a sow-and-reap, work-and-eat experience. At Easter we celebrate the fulfillment of the hope of Jesus who came to die for our sins. Jesus sacrificed himself us and he was not disappointed. God raised him from the dead. He did what he had to do and he was vindicated Alleluia, the Lord is risen! Life is victorious over death! Work and eat, that is the basic principle of heaven. I congratulate all you children of God who walked with Jesus during this Lenten period, fasting, praying, giving alms, doing penance and making reparation for sins. Congratulations to all you who were there wholeheartedly on Ash Wednesday, Palm Sunday, Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter vigil with Jesus! You have played your part, you will not be disappointed. You will be rewarded for your faith for the resurrection of Jesus is your assurance.

Easter reminds us that God is still at work over His creation. Those who cooperate with him will always have their share of His victory. That is why we renew our baptismal promises at the Easter vigil. The good will reap the reward of good. Those who fail to do good will not go free. In truth, even the current economic and political problem of the world is a result of the sins which we have taken for granted. We have condoned too many lies, honored too many crooks and tolerated too much injustice in our world, country and society. We allowed money to be the measure of all things for our financial institutions and policies. In our private businesses, we have pursued often profit at all cost ignoring our duty concerning charity and solidarity. Many times Christian parents, teachers, leaders, priests, guardians, youth, etc., who were in position to influence things have failed to insist on doing what is right. Unfortunately, that is what we are all now paying for.

But Easter reminds us that all is not lost. We must change, try to do more good, tell the truth more and be more just in our various dealings in order to counterbalance the evil around us. Let us do it in every family, every home, every market stall and office, church and school. The more good we do, the less power evil will have on our society. Easter reminds us that there is more power for good than for evil in this world. The enemies of Jesus did a lot of evil but God did more good and Jesus rose from the dead. If God seems far away from us now, guess who moved! We did! Let us get back to him. Easter reminds us that God is still active in our life. The Lord is the earth and its fullness, not the devil (Ps.24). But we must do our part.

The Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, at the end of his recent visit to Africa left a homily and a valedictory for African leaders to ponder when he said: "If I may be permitted to make one last appeal, I would ask that the just realization of the fundamental aspirations of the most needy peoples should be the principal concern of those in public office...our hearts cannot be at peace as long as there are brothers that suffer the lack of food, work, a house and other fundamental goods". Can anyone say it better? I think not! Therefore, this Easter, we pray, our sorrow will yield to joy. Our sick will receive healing. God will provide for our needs. Continue doing what is right and good and you shall not toil in vain! For now God’s people, rejoice and sing Alleluia! Yes, we shall overcome! Happy Easter to you all!

Eleven Members of Parliament have called upon all the candidates seeking for the presidential seat in next year’s general elections to unite under one umbrella body and conduct joint nominations so as to produce one candidate for the post.

The MPs who were speaking fund raiser in Embu over the weekend led by tourism assistant minister Cecily Mbarire. She said the unity of the candidates in the run up to the general election will be the determinant of who will carry the day and form the next government saying that the Embu county electorate will gauge each of them and support the best.

Siakago MP Leny Kivuti noted that the Embu community has united and invited all the presidential candidates to the area saying that after listening to them all the leaders will decide of where to direct the community.

Kivuti said there is no way a region can have a bargaining power without the much needed unity saying that presidential candidates should carry themselves with dignity and maturity so as to avoid bloodshed during the elections.

Maragwa MP Elias Mbau said that all the presidential candidates should be allowed to sell their candidature in all the regions of the country and in the end the electorate should be given a chance to decide who they want to be their leader.

Mbau said that gone are the days when candidates were not allowed to campaign in designated areas saying that Kenyans should show democracy and political maturity so as to ensure peace and tranquility in the country.

On his part, Mathioya MP Clement Wambugu said that as the country gears up for the general election, there is need for unity so as to avoid the repetition of the violence witnessed in the country during the 2007 general elections.

“The Mt Kenya region leaders should realize that producing so many presidential candidates will not help us, we need to unite as a region and produce one candidate who will be able to negotiate for us with other leaders.” He posed.

His Manyatta counterpart Emilio Kathuri pointed out that the Mt Kenya region will be bound to fail in the forth coming general elections if the candidates for the presidential elections will not unite and support one candidate for the top seat.

The people of Embu and Mbeere have agreed to work together to improve the living standards for the people from the region.

Waving dancing and chanting, crowds at E.A.S.T College Embu, cheered as leaders led by MPs Lenny Kivuti – Siakago who is also the Chairman of the Embu Mbeere Leaders Forum, Emilio Kathuri - Manyatta Mutava Musyimi – Gachoka and Cecily Mbarire Assistant Minister for Tourism and Member for Runyenjes promised education and social-economic development for the region.

Kivuti recalled that it was after coming to office in 2008 that the forum was started with a purpose of uniting the people of the two regions i.e. unity of purpose and the leaders agreed to create a forum so that they could be able to meet and harmonise development strategies for the region.

Members of the forum include Members of Parliament from the four constituencies. Others are John Cardinal Njue, Dr. Eng. Cyrus Njiru, Prof. Barbas Mitaru, Joel Ngatiari, Prof. Godfrey Nguru, Rosemary Nthiga, Amb. Dickson Kathambana, Albert Ruturi, Dr. Bibiana Njue, Jenniffer Nyaga, Tirus Muringi, Joan Ngunzi, Rt. Rev. Moses Mashamba, David Namu and Kithinji Kiragu.

Earlier welcoming delegates from the four constituencies of Mbeere and Embu, a popular Mbeere singer Newton Kariuki Ngari popularly know as Karish sang tunes calling for unity for the people of two regions.

Hon Kathuri praised the idea of establishment of University of Embu, the climax of the meeting and said the move will give opportunity to bright children to further their education. He said the region needs better infrastructure and called on residents to have common approach to national issues such as constitution making.

Kivuti said the University to be located on 100 acres piece of land was granted on18/9/2009 and the title deed issued. He added that the institution requires a massive budget and said plans are being put in place on how to source for the money as Constituency Development Fund alone is inadequate.

Prof. Nguru said matters of education must be addressed at all levels stating from lower classes to institutions of higher learning, introduced members who are trustees of Embu University. They include Hon. Lenny Kivuti. Hon. Cecily Mbarire, Hon. Mutava Musyimi, Hon. Emilio Kathuri, Dr. Eng. Cyrus Njiru, Prof. Barnabas Mitaru, Kiragu Kithinji, Dr. Bibian Njue and Amb. Dickson Kathambana.

Hon. Mbarire on her part asked the people of Embu and Mbeere to be proud of their heritage and relate with other Kenyans as equals in all areas. The minister asked leaders to teach people the important of protecting environment and conservation.

She said her ministry is looking at possibilities of introducing alternative routes to Mt.Kenya forest and Irangi forest way is being considered as one way, a move she said will add economic growth to the region. Presently, the way to Mt. Kenya forest is through Nanyuki.

The leaders came up with what was called Kangaru declaration. The declaration had four key points, cooperation in infrastructure development within the region, that University of Embu to be established at E.A.S.T College, Embu, That leaders continue perusing unity of purpose through Embu-Mbeere forum and that the motto will be Tumite varaca, twi varaca na tuthiite varaca (we are coming from far, we are still far and we are going far)

The meeting, first of its kind since 1931 when the leaders of the two communities met and agreed to have unity and take care of the land, was attended by Members of Parliament, Current and former civil leaders, resource persons and others.

Members of Parliament from Embu County have demanded for the creation of an extra constituency in Embu.

Tourism assistant Minister Cecily Mbarire who is the MP for Runyenjes, Lenny Kivuti (Siakago) and Emilio Kathuri (Manyatta)  said the creation of the extra constituency to be referred as Nembure is the minimum they are asking from the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission.

They accused the Ligale Commission of disregarding the aspirations of the community who they said had clearly requested for the new constituency which would serve Gaturi people partly from Manyatta and Runyenjes constituency.

Siakago MP Lenny Kivuti proposed to the independent electoral and boundaries commission to change the names of the two constituencies Siakago and Gachoka to Mbeere North and Mbeere South respectively. 

Kivuti said that Mbeere community have for long been forgotten thus the need for the names to prevent them from being extinct.

He said those formed the Counties failed to recognize the Mbeere side and came up with only Embu as the name of the county.

The legislator said that the commission should have given the marginalized community special consideration as stipulated in the new constitution saying that failing to consider that would amount to unconstitutionality.

He said that it was unfair for the commission to insinuate that the residents of Embu County did not give substantial views in regard to more constituencies saying that such allegations are a misrepresentation of facts.

Kivuti noted that like all the other largely populated communities in the country, the Mbeere community also has a right to their equal representation, adding that the commission should make boundaries to bring peace not to bring chaos. 

The residents presented a memorandum dismissing the proposed wards in the region saying that giving Siakago constituency only three wards and Gachoka 5 wards is a punishment to the residents since some might even be climbing huge mountains to meet their representatives. 

The community also reprimanded the commission for relying solely on the population quota to determine the number of constituencies and the number of wards saying the process of the population quota will lock out the marginalized communities with small numbers. 

Youth leaders of all registered and active football clubs in Muminji location pose for a photo after receiving footballs donated by area Member of Parliament Lenny Kivuti on Monday. The games started in 2008 against a backdrop of unemployment are used in providing meaningful economic activities for the youth.

Gatiti wa Mundigi receives her ration of famine relief food from Lenny Kivuti, Member of Parliament Siakago at Mutitu location in Mbeere North. Residents of Mbeere North have been recently affected by the famine.

An Assistant Minister and two Members of Parliaments from Embu County has called for sobriety as the country comes to terms with the confirmation of cases for the Deputy Prime minister Uhuru Kenyatta and Eldoret North MP William Ruto.

Cecily Mbarire the Assistant Minster for Tourism, speaking in Embu urged the public to remain calm and have faith in the process.

Siakago Member of Parliament Lenny Kivuti in reaction to the confirmation of the charges said Kenyans should not act in haste but should be calm.

He said the country was not built in a day but should seek ways of solving the problem which should better be addressed by Kenyans themselves.

The MP for Manyatta Emilio Kathuri said the confirmations were preliminary findings and does not affect much the outcome of the case.

The leaders were reacting shortly after presenting their views to the Independent Electoral Boundaries Commission which had a public hearing in Embu.

Siakago Member of Parliament Lenny Kivuti has called on the youths in his constituency to be in the forefront in development of sports in Mbeere north constituency.

Hon. Kivuti said this when he presented constituency development fund (CDF) cheques in aid of Kanyuambora playground. The MP said the government was committed in development of sport activities and facilities and has set aside 1 million shillings for sports in every constituency.

He called on the youth to shun vices in any form and get involved in positive gainful activities such as sports which he said has created many millionaires in Kenya and all over the world. He said big names in sports could also come from the district and asked officials to embark on serious recruitment of youths who would wish to do sports in one form or the other.

The legislator was accompanied by chairman Athletics Kenya, Mbeere sub-branch and former stadium manager, Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani Chelestino Nyaga Kithumbu, constituency office manager Anastasio P.N. Muthathai and other leaders.

Mbeere North leaders meeting have supported a strong presidential system.

At an emotive meeting held at Siakago Primary school, and attended by area Member of Parliament, the leaders said whereas they welcome the hybrid government, the president should have some leverage.

The leaders said if elected by universal and direct suffrage, the president must have powers that make different in the lives of the electorate.

Also discussed during the long day meeting were clauses touching on land and property rights, recognition of the community rights, culture and religion, devolved government and fair representation.

Siakago MP elect yesterday held a brainstorming session with Mbeere professionals working outside the district mostly young people who work and live in Nairobi to find ways of jumpstarting development process in Siakago constituency.

The MP sought suggestions from participants on what need to be done to develop the constituency and reduce poverty that has impoverished the residents for long. During the meeting at Geomaps Centre, Nairobi which was attended by nearly 200 hundred people, participants suggested the development of Siakago Constituency Development Plan which could look at the issues of policy, planning, finance and implementation.

More than 100,000 people in Mbeere District face starvation following crop failure, Siakago Member of Parliament Hon. Lenny Kivuti has said. The MP said crops which initially would do well in the areas such as sorghum, millet, maize and beans had dried up due to persistent drought. “Due to dry spell people in this district will not harvest anything,” he said.

Mr. Kivuti said the local National Cereals and Produce Board depot at Ishiara Town had run out of maize. But in an interesting turn of events, last week 31,781 bags of maize worth Sh83 million belonging to NCPB were destroyed following a court order. In the ruling, a Siakago court in Mbeere District ordered that the maize that contained high levels of aflatoxin be burnt as it was not fit to be eaten.

The legislator who was addressing reporters in Embu Town on Saturday, said Mbeere was one of the districts worst hit by drought.

He said the residents required urgent relief food.

“The Government should ensure that the food reaches this area as soon as possible before our people start dying of hunger,” he said.

He said about 200,000 bags of maize and beans were needed to feed the residents. Farmers in the area also lacked seeds to plant during the coming rains, said the MP, asking the Government to ensure supply. He noted that for the past two seasons, crops in the area had dried up, leaving the farmers without seeds.

Hon. Kivuti also appealed to well-wishers to assist the drought victims in the district, adding that the situation was becoming worse by the day.

The MP said he had toured the area and established that the situation was serious and that it should be urgently addressed.

The Member of Parliament for Siakago Hon Lenny Kivuti has called on the church to give spiritual guidance to the society to foster unity and development in Mbeere.

In a statement read during a fund raising in aid of St. Jude ACK Church Gitii, Kivuti said the church has a major role to play in education, peace and justice, health and other social economic development.

Kanyuambora Arch-deaconry Ven. Arch-deacon John Kimani (extreme right) asked the members to pray for the country and be always at the fore front in the fight against social injustices. He said this will only be achieved if people turn to God.

“We have to pray to pray and support development issues and the leaders if we hope to bring up a generation with substance” said the clergy.

MP Lenny Kivuti chats with an elderly lady after a food distribution exercise at Kamumu, Mbeere North yesterday. The MP distributed food to hungry residents and learning institutions in the district. He asked school heads to use funds saved after getting free food to give bursary to poor children in their schools.

Siakago Member of Parliament Lenny Kivuti has decried rampant drug abuse in Mbeere and called on young people to shun crime and illicit brew.

Kivuti said young people should instead concentrate on sports as a profession and pastime to improve their livelihoods.

The MP said Siakago as elsewhere in the country idleness was a big problem which should be addressed by all.

“We have to take care of our youth if we expect to move forward as people of this area”, said the legislator while addressing the press after Lenny Kivuti football tournament held at Siakago Primary School in his Siakago constituency where he was the chief guest, yesterday.

The MP asked the youth to say no to drunkenness and spare more time for sports.

The MP also called on Mbeere people to use the festive season to reflect on region and national development agenda.

Drug abuse especially use of illicit brew and Khat locally known as miraa in the district has continued to escalate in the recent past with many young people addicted.

The tournament, sponsored by the MP was won by Siakago FC on men category and Ovariri FC. Fifty eight teams featured in the contest.

Among those who graced the event were Mbeere District Commissioner John Chelimo, area Police Chief Jacinta Odhiambo and Chairman Kenya Football Federation Mbeere and Eastern branch Samuel Njeru Nyaga.

A support group for Siakago Member of Parliament Lenny Kivuti has called on the MP to involve them more in constituency and district affairs.

The group, made of young professionals from Mbeere North district members drawn said, they were willing to do specific tasks such education and training, farming, tree planting and publicity as community participation in developing their area.

Speaking at Geomaps Africa offices in Nairobi yesterday, Kivuti thanked the team and called for its expansion and defined role or roles for each group member.

He told the group that after the development of Siakago constituency strategic development plan, work was going on at grassroots and asked those present to visit constituency website for further updates.

The legislator asked the group to participate in development of a local newsletter expected to come up in August this year and which will feature Mbeere North issues such education, agriculture, youth matters, business, security and others.

Most of those in attendance participated in development of the strategic plan launched mid 2008.

It has been an eventful year. We have had major activities including;

• Development of the Constituency Strategic Plan
• Cultural Festival
• Roads
• Constituency Women Enterprise
• New district
• Water and Sanitation Project
• CDF projects
• Stakeholders Consultiative Meetings

Among others.

We look forward to accomplish much more next year. Great emphasis will be put on our education sector to address performance in our schools.

I wish all of you A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A PROSPEROUS 2009!

GOD BLESS SIAKAGO!

Mbeere elders yesterday called for unity in the newly created Embu County as discussions about future possibilities open across the new political unit.
The meeting was convened by Siakago Member of Parliament Hon. Lenny Kivuti who is also the Chairman of Embu Mbeere Leaders Forum.
About 2700 community elders and leaders meeting in Siakago Polytechnic, Mbeere North resolved to back capable leaders to assume county leadership positions saying the new Constitution offered the opportunity for a political paradigm shift.
“The main test for the electorate is the kind of leadership they will choose for the county. We need the right people with the right skills to steer Embu County to greater heights,” said the chief executive of the Public Complaints Standing Committee secretariat, Mr. Ken Mwige who attended the meeting.

The Siakago Member has for many years harboured the intention of seeing the birth of a united Embu and Mbeere communities and intended to achieve this dream through a wide network of community elders and other forums on the county.
"Calling this meeting is an idea whose time has come is expected to benefit people of both Mbeere and Embu from the huge funding available for development initiatives," said the MP.
Thanking Siakago Member for convening the meeting, the elders urged caution and asked voters to be vigilant and ensure that they elect leaders of quality.
The meeting was attended by some EMLF members, veteran politicians, opinion shapers, political hopefuls, professionals and other leaders

Siakago MP elect Lenny Kivuti poses for a photograph with Mbere Civic Leaders lelegation who called on him at his Kanyuambora home, Mbeere.

2007, Campaign period

The 2007 was characterized by campaigns and political alignments as different candidates contest for political positions.

December 2007, poll results

After keenly fought campaign Lenny Kivuti see off the challenge of several candidates to secure a win in Siakago parliamentary race.

January 2008, Post election anarchy

Post election anarchy erupted following disputed presidential poll, triggering claims of electoral fraud by the opposition and financial crisis that has reined in growth and hit commodity prices.

January 2008, Inauguration

Lenny Maxwell Kivuti is sworn in as the Member of Parliament for Siakago constituency. The purpose of inauguration is to honor the incoming law maker with a formal ceremony.

January, 2008, National duties

Parliament holds the first workshop for Members of Parliament on management of Constituency Development Fund (CDF). Hon. Kivuti attended the 2-day workshop.

February 2008, working tour

The MP went tours the constituency accompanied by engineers from the ministry of Water and Tana Water Services Board to look on way of addressing water problems in Siakago.

February 2008, Constituency Development Fund Committee (CDFC)

The MP appoints members of CDFC and asked them to contribute their skills and time in addressing the concerns of the people of Siakago.

February 2008, establishment of four constituency offices

The MP establishes constituency offices at Siakago, Kanyuambora, Ishiara and Kirie centers to cater to the diverse communication needs for the constituents.

February 2008,Meeting with civic leaders

The MP hosts councilors to meeting and accompanied them on an inspection tour of the constituency development projects.

Meeting of Mbeere professionals in Nairobi at Geomaps Centre

A team of professional from Siakago holds a meeting at Geomaps centre to discuss constituency’s development agenda. Hon. Kivuti attended the meeting.

Second meeting of the Nairobi Group

A second meeting is held where the issue of developing a strategic plan to act as our guide on development issues was discussed and agreed upon. The MP supported the idea.

Development of CSDP

The first inclusive meeting of constituency groups holds their first meeting at an Embu hotel. Development issues are discussed and preparations of strategic plan started.

Constituency Strategic Plan seminar at an Embu Hotel

The Embu meeting is attended by constituents and resource persons and discusses details of the development of Siakago Constituency Development Strategic Plan (CSDP).

Sustainable Initiative for Poverty Eradication (SIPOR)

Hon. Kivuti and Mrs. Kivuti starts women economic empowerment programme for Siakago constituency.

June 2008, CDC projects monitoring and evaluation

CDC commences monitoring and evaluation exercise of all CDF projects.

Phase two of SCDP

Implementation seminar for the strategic plan is held at an Embu Hotel.

Preparations starts for the Mbeere Cultural Festival and the unveiling of the strategic plan

Negotiations on split of Mbeere district

The MP starts a follow-up on the split of Mbeere North district from the larger Mbeere district. The discussions included those of new divisions, locations and sub-locations.

Introduction of aloe Vera training

The MP leads farmers on an aloe Vera initiative aimed at introducing farmers in Siakago to aloe Very farming a resource readily available in Siakago and Mbeere region.

Women activities

Pursuance to the strategic plan, the MP and SIPOR starts and provide funds to women empowerment programme. Women were involved in manufacturing and marketing of home-use products such as soap, lotion, fruit juice, die and tie etc.

July 2008, Experts visit

The MP presents experts from the Middle East and China who came to check on how Mutonga Hydropower Project could be developed.

July 2008, District Education Board (D.E.B) deliberations.

July 2008, Harambee

The MP attends a handing over ceremony of Kiambere Complex School by Child Africa Organization. The event was officiated by the Vice President Hon. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka and the CAO president Ms. Julie Solberg.

July 2008, Tarmacing

Follow-up of inclusion in the tarmacing process of the single street at Kanyuambora market, entrance to Kanyuambora Secondary school and sections of Ishiara market.

August 2008, Unveiling of development strategic plan and constituency website (www.siakago.net)

The constituency website is launched. Today Siakago is proud to give a website that represents the constituent needs, make information available and useful and give us opportunity to showcase our diverse human resource.

August 2008, Mbeere cultural day

Mbeere people holds cultural day at Kanyuambora to showcase their culture and celebrate cultural heritage. The MP is installed as an Mbeere leader at a colorful ceremony witness by thousands of residents and invited quests.

September 2008, Inauguration of roads

More work on roads commences as a strategic ventures for opening up the Siakago. Work started on the following roads:-Cianyi-Riandu, Kamumu-Usambara-Kabuvua-Ngoce-Ngiiri, Kiathenge-Nthigirani-Kwa Marindi, Kanyuambora-Kavengero, Kanyuambora-Kathunguri, Itiira-Gangara, Muconoke-Witwa-Gitiburi-Makunguru, Karerema-Kwamukira-Mbaci-Kogari among others.

Giving money for CDF projects

The MP issues funds to projects officials to implement CDF projects in all locations. He was accompanied by CDFC members.

Public Land

The MP last year rescues a playground within Ishiara market from being put to private use. The playground is also used for barazas by the locals.

July 2008, Women activities

Mid 2008 preparations for women enterprise first graduation and price giving ceremony is at top gear. The MP funded the activities from and was available to groups when required.

December, 2008 inauguration of Kambaru Secondary School

The MP presides over a start of numerous social programmes like building schools notably Kambaru Secondary School. Education sector has been a key spear of operation for the MP in 2008.

October, 2008, Roads

The MP gets presidential authorization to tarmac Embu – Siakago – Kirie – Ishiara and Kianjokoma – Runyenjes – Ugweri – Kiritiri roads. Roads are an essential infrastructure and this project will lead to increased and unhindered economic activity.

October, 2008, Siakago Water and Sanitation Project.

The MP obtains Presidential consent for the implementation of project which also has water harvesting component is set to provide water for domestic, livestock, irrigation, sanitation use. It's the most significant infrastructure project to be undertaken in Siakago and promises to catapult Mbeere into the agricultural production highway's fast lane.

October, 2008,New Districts, Divisions, Locations and Sub-Locations

The MP receives Presidential approval for splitting of Mbeere district into the following two districts: - Mbeere North and Mbeere South. The move will create generate more jobs for the residents and ensure equal share of resources.

December 2008, Women graduation and price giving ceremony

At a colorful ceremony at Siakago thousands of residents the attends the ceremony organized to provoke competitive innovation and presided over by the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Development Hon. Esther Murugi

15 graduates absorbed by equity bank

In tandem with strategic plan 15 graduates are absorbed by the equity bank. This has enabled the youth to get involved in gainful employment.

Job creation

Intex construction company absorbs a number of people. This has helped reduce the number of unemployed people in Siakago effectively helping in efforts of poverty reduction.

Teachers

Teachers Service Commission employs 19 teachers. This was a major boost compared to previous times when most of our trained teachers wasted away for years before being employed.

Jobs in Government and private sector

The year was marked by improved government and private sector recruitments of Siakago residents who are now involved in meaningful economic activities.

Siakago Member of Parliament Lenny Kivuti and his family are counted in Nairobi during the recent national population census.

The Siakago MP has petitioned the government to create new administrative units in his Mbeere. The MP said the creation of new districts, divisions, locations and sub-locations will create new job opportunities for the youth and ensure the district gets its fair share of national cake in important sectors such as education, infrastructural, water, education, business, employment and social-political development.

At the same time the legislator defended the creation of new administrative units in the country, saying the move will bring services closer to the people, spur rural development and check the influx of people to urban centers.

The new Catholic bishop of Embu in was consecrated and installed at a colourful ceremony at Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral grounds on Saturday.Bishop Paul Kariuki, a former theology lecturer at Christ the King Major Seminary in Nyeri, was consecrated by John Cardinal Njue of Nairobi who served as the first bishop of Embu from 1986 to 2002.

The co-consecrators were Archbishop Peter Kairu of Nyeri and Bishop Anthony Muheria of Kitui, who is Bishop Kariuki’s immediate predecessor.Cardinal Njue told Christians in his homily that “in the person of the bishop and the priests around him, Christ is in your midst.”

They should receive him joyfully, listen to him and obey him as he guides them in matters of faith and morals.In apparent reference to the fast-spreading evangelical churches and new breakaway Catholic movements, Cardinal Njue called on the Christians of Embu “not to be shaken by the winds that surround you.”

He also warned them against many false teachers and prophets.The cardinal urged the priests of Embu to cooperate with their new bishop in a spirit of genuine obedience. They should also remain firm in their dedication to the church.

He asked Bishop Kariuki, as the chief teacher of the faith, to be driven by “a spirit of real service in imitation of our Master who came to serve and not to be served.”The Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Alain Paul Lebeaupin, reminded the faithful that to be a bishop in the Catholic Church means being in communion with St. Peter and his successor, the pope.He also said that the church is universal and Kenyan Catholics should live that universality by being open to all. “To be a Catholic is to be ready to help all without distinction,” the Nuncio said.

The new bishop expressed gratitude to Pope Benedict XVI for his appointment and pledged to be a good shepherd. "I come to you, honourable people of God, as a humble servant,” Bishop Kariuki said.“My goal is one: to lead souls to Christ at whatever cost.” Bishop Kariuki’s episcopal motto is, ‘I am a good shepherd to you and to all.

The Diocese of Embu which measures 2, 714 (1,048 squire miles) covers the political boundaries of Embu and Mbeere regions, the latter is largely semi-arid.

The Member of Parliament for Siakago Hon Lenny Kivuti has thanked President Mwai Kibaki for the split of the larger Mbeere district into two Mbeere North and Mbeere South saying the development could not have come at a better time.

Residents have welcomed the move saying it will ensure equal sharing of resources and create additional opportunity for the locals. More jobs will be created and this will reduce the number of jobless people. The residents have applauded the move as a wise idea that was long overdue.

Buoyed by split of the districts and expectations that volume of businesses could increase, entrepreneurs are contemplating expanding their businesses activities.

In a move meant to contain insecurity in lower parts of Mbeere North district, District Security Committee has authorized positing of security personnel in Kathanje and Kirie both in Muminji location where thugs shot two dead and injured three others.

District Commissioner John Chelimo said the government was up to the task of protecting its citizen adding that officers will be sent to the affected areas.

Siakago Constituency Development Fund Committee Members visited the bereaved families. Area Member of Parliament Lenny Kivuti said sharing of information between residents and the government would improve security in the area and pointed to the likelihood that some locals were collaborating with criminals.

The Member of Parliament for Siakago Hon. Lenny Kivuti (second, left) has launched the Constituency Sports Committee.

The committee will support development of sports activities (mainly soccer/football) in the constituency.

Benson Nyaga Ngari (right) was unanimously elected as the interim Chairman of the Community Soccer Activities Committee.

The launch of the committee is meant to facilitate commencement of the sports activities for the year 2008/2009.

Members of Lenny Kivuti Foundation entertain guests during this year Jamhuri day celebration at Mbeere North district headquarters ground. Mbeere District Commissioner John Chelimo presided over the event.

Residents of Gitiburi location and entire Mbeere North district have been cautioned against associating with strangers or harbouring criminals.

Addressing an impromptu meeting at Muconoke market the area MP Lenny Kivuti said the government was committed in providing security to all Kenyans and asked local administration leaders to address the issue of security with the seriousness it deserves so that people may work without fear.