By Ruth Magak

The County Government of Nakuru has teamed up with the Centre for Agriculture and Bioscience International (CABI) and the Centre for Behaviour Change and Communication (CBCC) to launch an initiative aimed at promoting safer and more sustainable farming practices in the region.

The campaign aims to reduce the negative effects of pesticides on human and animal health, as well as the environment, by providing farmers with access to safer and more affordable alternatives to pesticides, reliable technical sources, and knowledge on safe pesticide use to minimize health risks.

To achieve this goal, the initiative introduces farmers to the Crop Sprayer App, which is now available for download on Android phones. The app helps farmers calculate the amount of pesticide needed when treating crops, reducing the risk of overuse and toxic exposure.

A recent field visit conducted by CABI and the County Government found that many small-scale farmers in the region lack knowledge on best pest management practices when combating emerging plant health threats. As a result, harmful pesticides are used in efforts to avoid crop loss, with limited awareness of the implications of these chemicals. The campaign aims to address this issue by providing farmers with knowledge and access to safer alternatives to pesticides.

The risks associated with the use of harmful pesticides are significant, including potential negative impacts on human and animal health and the environment. Exposure to harmful chemicals can lead to a range of health issues, such as respiratory problems, skin irritation, and chronic diseases. The production of safe, pesticide-free produce for the market is a critical aspect of the initiative.

The County Government of Nakuru hopes that the initiative will help farmers cope better with emerging plant health threats and improve farm productivity. By promoting safer and more sustainable farming practices, the campaign seeks to empower farmers to reduce the negative effects of pesticides in the county. The county government is confident that with the cooperation of all stakeholders, the initiative will have a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of the people of Nakuru County.

In a decisive and commendable move, Governor Susan Kihika has issued a directive to the County Treasury to settle all valid outstanding bills incurred by the defunct Municipal Council of Nakuru and the first and second county administrations.

A pending contractual bill refers to an invoice or bill that has been submitted to a client, in this case, the County Government of Nakuru, but remains unpaid due to various reasons.

This announcement brings much-needed relief to suppliers and contractors who have been waiting for payment of their bills for an extended period, with some having suffered the consequences of financial renderers.

In a statement, the Governor acknowledged the cash crunch being experienced throughout the country and expects her administration to clear a minimum of Shs1.5 Billion.

“I am well aware that many of you are facing tough times, and therefore, the settlement of your certified bills will significantly aid in alleviating some of your long-pending financial obligations,” noted the Governor.

The Governor revealed that she inherited over Shs 3.5 billion in unpaid bills, and her administration would do everything necessary to clear all valid bills as soon as possible.

She implored suppliers and contractors to exhibit patience and cooperation as her government remains steadfast in supporting them through the current economic hardships.

“I urge those who have been awarded various contracts to expedite their completion,” she added, reaffirming her commitment to the fulfilment of her development manifesto.

The Governor’s directive is a significant stride towards reviving the economy, ensuring that suppliers and contractors receive their rightful payment for work done, and actualizing her manifesto.

This move will undoubtedly bolster the confidence of suppliers and contractors and enable them to continue providing their services to the county, even in cash crunch times.

It is worth noting that, in 2017, when former Governor Lee Kinyanjui assumed office, the county had unpaid bills worth Sh3 billion, but only Sh1 billion was eligible for payment after verification.

Governor Susan Kihika’s directive is a welcome development and a testament to her commitment to delivering her mandate while ensuring the well-being of Nakuru’s suppliers and contractors.

The Rastafari community in Nakuru is calling on Kenyans to stand up and protect their cultural traditions and values following the recent Supreme Court of Kenya ruling on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ).

The apex court recently criticised the government for failing to register unions and associations for the LGBTQ people, saying the decision discriminates against the rights of the community.

The NGOs Co-ordination Board had refused to register six unions, among them the National Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission and the Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Council

In a strong statement, the Empress Menen Cultural Group is urging the government to take immediate action, of whatever nature, to reverse the ruling, which they say undermines the very fabric of the society.

The group’s chairman, Kimathi Thuo stated that leaders must protect Kenya’s traditional values and promote the principles of natural law and morality.

“We call on the government to ensure that the traditional values that have guided us throughout our history are respected and protected,” he stated on the sidelines of a worship service in Nakuru City.

He said the community fully supports the recent comments made by political leaders, led by President William Ruto regarding LGBTQ unions and associations.

The Rastafari community emphasized that the government should immediately give a way forward, specifically that which respects the country’s values and beliefs

“It is only through united and such honest efforts that we can ensure that these values are preserved for future generations,” stated Thuo the Rastafarians stand with all groups protecting the sanctity of family structures.

LGBTQ advocacy groups and individuals have for years been pushing for greater recognition and protection of the rights of the LGBTQ community in Kenya.

They have been vocal about the need to repeal laws that criminalize homosexuality and provide legal recognition and protection for same-sex relationships.

However, same-sex unions remain illegal in Kenya, as homosexual activity is criminalized under Section 162 of the Penal Code. The maximum sentence for engaging in homosexual activity is 14 years in prison.