Angels Hair Co. Ruiru, Owned by Sana Industries Lays off Thousands of Workers

A few months ago, Angels Hair Company started laying off it's workers in thousands. The company consisted of slightly over 7000 workers, 90% being women. They are our sisters/daughters/friends and mothers to happy school going kids.

A couple of years ago when they opened shop in Ruiru, they had around 2000 workers. Business was good, they kept hiring till they hit 7000 staff. As is the norm in any town with a large number of working population increasing, Ruiru economy was boosted, rental houses spruced up, banks, supermarkets etc all enjoyed good business.

But come late 2017 & 2018, somewhere along, things started crumbling. Sources have it that the current county regime has a hand in the company's misfortunes. Unconfirmed Reports fingers the highest office in the county while others are saying  they have issues on tax evasion.

But nonetheless, we have 7000 livelihoods at stake. The govt can look for alternatives and come to an amicable understanding. Frustrating the company owners affects everyone in Ruiru, Directly or Indirectly. Houses will be left vacant, ripples will be felt in the businesses within and around Ruiru, thousands will be jobless, hence driving them out of Ruiru to other places, and we will be having a dull town. Whatever issue the governor has with the Angels Hair bosses, it must cease. A If its about taxes, KRA can draw up an amicable solution. A long term solution must prevail. The company has had a good working environment since they set up shop here, and they shouldn't be forced to close shop and open elsewhere. I believe a good working environment will be of benefit to all.

Angels Company should continue operating in Ruiru. This is part of the President's Big 4 agendas(manufacture) and he should come in and help Find solutions...




(Article from Facebook, via ArapKaruri) 

EMBATTLED Kiambu GOVERNOR Waititu beats up MCA's in his office

By the Kenyan Youth 
Kiambu, Monday January 2018.

Kiambu Governor Ferdinard Waititu yesterday threw punches and slaps to elected MCA's in his office who had gone to enquire why he has slashed bursaries to 1 million per ward while KAA SOBER gets 2 million per day. The governor, who was really agitated by the MCA's, shrugged them, hit & slapped them in front of his Deputy Dr. James Nyoro, County Secretary Dr Njogu among others.

KAA SOBER

According to sources, he warned them of dire consequences should they continue talking ill of and discrediting KAA SOBER, an initiative which has received condemnation from all quarters. He mentioned that he will use his goons to deal with them. He told them the office of the governor belongs to him and its his property, even the president cannot order him around, and warned anyone of ever stepping in "His Office".

                           (Waititu at court in undated photo) 

EXCLUSION

The MCA's from Juja, Kiuu & Kahawa Sukari had gone to inquire from the Governor why 25 MCA's were excluded in the award of this year's bursaries. Security men had to separate and escort the MCA's out.

Already, the 25 MCA's are questioning the governor on why prefers paying 2 million shillings to an unsustainable project while the children from needy families in over 60 wards get mere 1 million per ward per term. Out of the 25 MCA's, only Ruiru Biashara Ward MCA had his bursary fund reinstated after he confronted the governor. Sources close say that Hon. Elijah Njoroge told off the governor, and warned him against using the public office as his home.

RIOT ACT

According to reliable sources, Waititu further summoned all the NOMINATED MCAs and read them the riot act ahead of the anticipated ouster of the leader. The governor went ahead and accused one nominated MCA to have been a robber, hence her disability. Palaver has it that the lady got emotionally hurt, and is now admitted at Aga Khan with high pressure related problem.

KABOGO AND MOSES KURIA

The emotionally speaking Waititu was so agitated saying that he is excluding them for supporting former governor Kabogo and Gatundu South MP Moses Kuria in their bid to oust him in 2022. He used unprintable names to describe former governor and Moses Kuria.

By the time of going to press, the MCA's are already planning to impeach the governor. 

RUIRU BIASHARA WARD MCA Gifts a car to a Pastor

By ArapKaruri - Monday 15th October 2018

It was utter disbelief what happened next after a Mukurino bishop in Ruiru told the Kiambu Chief Whip and Ruiru biashara ward MCA Hon. Njoroge Kururia that he had contributed all he had in his church harambee including fare and that he would walk home from there.

Hon. Elijah Njoroge who felt compassion to the pastor immediately ordered for one of his cars to give it to the pastor.
In 30 mins time, a Mitsubishi Galant, white in colour registration number KAT 411T was brought by the MCA's driver to the church, to the disbelief of the Akorino congregation!!

The MCA handing over the car keys

The Bishop and his Wife were totally in shock when the MCA handed over the car and its keys to them.
The Bishop got to the steering and test drive the car when the whole congregation run beside it praising God for the gift.

"I cannot sit and watch a dedicated man of God walk when serving God when I can share a car", said MCA Njoroge

The MCA had been invited to a harambee by the church as the chief guest to the  harambee.

This was in addition of the MCA's pledge to fully fund the construction of the church.

KIAMBU Deputy Governor Hints on Resigning

Kiambu County leadership has had its share of power wrangles. Palaver has it that Nyoro, feels that Waititu is running the country in an inappropriate way, disregarding his advice. And through a whatsapp group called "UTETI WA KIAMBU", DG Nyoro has been hinting out to the people about the growing Rift within United For Kiambu political movement, which was formed to kick out Kiambu Former Governor Kabogo out of office.

In recent times, Waititu locked his Deputy Nyoro out of his(deputy's office).  Sources has it that the two cannot see eye to eye. 

I WILL TEACH BABU OWINO A LESSON! - MCA Njoro

Kiambu County Assembly Chief Whip and Ruiru Biashara Ward MCA Hon. Elijah Njoroge has vowed to teach Embakasi East MP Babu Owino a lesson, should he repeat his disrespectful utterances. 

Speaking on Kameme TV in an interview on Sunday evening, Hon. Elijah Njoroge swore he will personally lead other Jubilee leaders to Embakasi East constituency and demonstrate, and force Babu Owino to ask for forgiveness. 

(*Photo: Ruiru Exclusives) 

The MP uttered disrespectful words.."mtoto wa mbwa".. at a NASA rally,  said to be suggesting that President Uhuru Kenyatta is a son of a dog. He was arrested and detained, faced charges in a court and was released on bond. 

LETTER TO RAILA ODINGA

By David Wakogy

"Good morning Sir? I hope this finds you well. You have spent most of your adult life fighting for a better Kenya - Canaan. You were thrown into the detention and became the longest serving political detainee in Kenya. You are among those who midwifed democracy in this country in the name of political parties pluralism, led the country in getting a constitution by the Kenyans for the Kenyans.

Whistleblower

Mr. Odinga you have always been the most conspicuous whistleblower when things go wrong in this country and you are no doubt a true leader and a patriot. You are an institution of social democracy and equity, no one can ever get that honor. Among the eight Presidential candidates, you were no doubt the one who has suffered the most fighting for a better Kenya, you have given so much to this country and many generations including my own, you have sacrificed so much and lost so much in the quest for a better and prosperous country. Of course you have had your share of blessings and no one can wish away your efforts and dedication.

Joshua and Caleb

Mr. Odinga, its true you could have been a political messiah for for Kenyan people, to redeem them from the political bondage of one party state but however, while you were at it, as you were still seeking the route to Canaan in the wilderness of political misery and frustrations, God raised a new generation of leaders; Joshua and Caleb. True that Moses never lived to see the land that he had longed to enter but he however saw it from the mountain top. This is different for you Mr. Odinga for as Uhuru and Ruto (Joshua and Caleb) have taken this country into the economic Canaan, you have had the honor and divine grace of seeing it with your own mortal eyes and seeing the beautiful  dream of a better Kenya unfold.

Transfer of Power

The leadership sceptre transferred from your generation into a new generation and it would be frustrating and bitterly so if you keep on chasing it. The energy and the vigour that once defined you in your clamour for a better Kenya has also been transferred to UhuRuto generation therefore appreciate the generational transfer of power and be grateful that you are a respected remnant and that Kenya is far much better than when this journey started.

God bless you, God bless Kenya and may He merit your life with longevity and good health as you see your children, grandchildren and your grandchildren's children living the dream you had for a better country in the hands of a generation of leaders who took over from your own. Thank you".

KABOGO IS BACK! He has declared he will be on the ballot come August 8th

Kiambu County Governor Hon William Kabogo Gitau has this afternoon announced his intention to view as an independent candidate in the upcoming general elections, to defend his seat. Speaking to journalists, he explained his wish to continue serving the people of Kiambu in completing his already started projects.
Here is his speech:

"Members of the Press, Ladies and Gentlemen, Good Afternoon.

Happy Mother’s Day to our great women in Kiambu County and the country at large and to my dear wife who is here with me.

I want to thank you for coming for this press briefing.

Let me start by giving honour to Whom all honour is due, and that is God.

Today being a Sunday, a day of worship for me, I am reminded of the faithfulness of God and I am grateful for the gift of life and for the great people of Kiambu that He has entrusted me with to provide leadership.

I don’t take this privilege for granted and in my reflections I acknowledge that leadership comes from God and it takes God to lead His people. I am only a servant.

I have served the great people of Kiambu for the last four years as Governor and despite many obstacles & challenges, I say thank you to God for enabling me, and to you all, thank you for trusting me.

I couldn’t do it without His help and the honour of moving Kiambu County and its great people to the place of its destiny humbles me greatly.

The development agenda that we have had is no doubt open for everyone to see. There is no challenge to our record and what we have achieved together.

The transformation that we have attained as a county in the last four years is second to none.

We want to continue to make this the place where you choose to Live, Work and Grow.

There is no limit to what we can achieve as a people, united under God.

For those who doubted, for those who questioned, for those who had little faith if our campaign was on the right track with right minded people to ask for a second term to serve the great people of Kiambu county, the shambolic nominations we witnessed answered one question.

There was a clear quest to stop our development agenda and subvert the wishes of the people of Kiambu.

The elections we witnessed had many flaws and this was evident across the country. The nomination exercise was highly driven by non-issues.

Our campaign was about transformation and the issues confronting us but our opponents chose the propaganda mill whose evidence we have here today……..

There are a lot of things that have been said about me that are not true but only those who want to seek the truth will find it. Some of them have hurt me and my family but we are strong.

I will not dwell in that game of play but stick to the issues and the agenda that will propel our great people to great heights in this county.

Our campaign was about pushing the wheel of success and the development agenda for the hardworking people of Kiambu.

I sincerely thank voters who came out in large numbers to get their votes counted and their voices heard.

To everyone who came out to vote for me on the 25th April, men, women, the young and the old, I want to say thank you.

You braved the chilly weather and stood for many hours in long queues to vote for me. From Ngoliba to Kinale from Githobokoni to Nachu, thousands of you came out to vote and I am proud of you and I thank you once more.

To those who didn’t vote for me, thank you for still turning out to vote and exercising your democratic right and to let us know that as a team we still have some work to do in pushing forward the development agenda.  

That’s the power each one of us has been given by the Constitution.

Make no mistake, my silence for the last couple of weeks was as a result of a peace pact that I signed and I wanted to honor. The younger Kabogo would have handled things very differently but now my thoughts turn to, what will be good for the County.

In recent weeks, I have met thousands of people and have received phone calls from people from all walks of life; men and women, young and old telling me the fight must go on. This is not my fight. It is ‘our’ fight.

It is not a battle about who is stronger or who is better at spreading propaganda but rather it’s about the Vision. The Vision that will take all of us to what we have the potential to become, the Vision that will take us where we need to be and the Vision that will make Kiambu the place where people choose to Live, Work and Grow. THAT is the Vision that consumes me and propels me forward.

After much deliberation and having consulted with my wife and the rest of my family, I stand here today to announce my independent candidature for a second term as your Governor. Due to public demand, I have decided to honor the wishes of the people of Kiambu.

I stand with you.

At the end of the day we are one people with the same aspirations, the same dreams and desires and with God on our side, our differences will melt away in the face of the greater good that is before us.

That is, making Kiambu the best county in service delivery and a place with equal opportunities for everyone, regardless of status, religion or age. A place of choice for people to Live, Work and Grow.

Whether you are a Kikuyu, Luo or Kamba - tribe will not define us.

Whether you are a Christian or Muslim - Religion will not divide us.

Whether you are Young or Old of Age – Experience will not stop us.

Whether you are a man or a woman – Gender will not separate us.

It is these differences that make us richer, better, stronger as the people of Kiambu. We are One People and will always be One People.


The answers we are looking for, the solutions to our problems, the cure to what is ailing us does not lie in those that are afraid to confront the common enemy of development and democracy in our county but the brave ones who will not shy away from saying, I can do the impossible. Yes, I can be who God says I am and I can do what He says I can do.

With purpose and great determination, I promise every man, woman and child in this county that I will break my back to give you the best leadership; I will break sweat to bring investment into this county I will exhaust all ideas in my mind to make this county great.

To our detractors, watch this space. We will do it through God’s help, and with His help and as we work together as One People we will pull through all obstacles and challenges.

God bless you, God bless Kiambu County and God bless Kenya.

Thank You."

HOW FALSE PROPAGANDA AGAINST KABOGO WAS PLANNED!!

Kiambu Governor Hon. William Kabogo Gitau never insulted women.
A meeting was held on 11th February 2017 in oldonyo sabuk, in attendance was Waititu, Nyoro, Gakuyo and Mugwe and their lieutenants.
It was very clear to them that they would not trounce kabogo by any means since he is one of the greatest performers since inception of devolution.

How It Was Planned
A plan was fronted by Nyoro who happened to have ironed it out with kabogo during the gubernatorial race in 2013. And it was agreed that the only way out was to create a propaganda against Kabogo.
The truth is kabogo is tough, sometimes tends to be firm which is misinterpreted as arrogance.
People will always use what you are good at in killing or bringing you down, so they agreed that the only propaganda that can work against Kabogo was an insult against women.
A team of 5 people was created and mandated with the task of coming up with the insults.
They came up with 7 serious insults against him and it was shared within the meeting and approved by the Kiambu NASA.
How shall people believe this proganda??  Waititu asked.

How The Propaganda Was Spread

 Gakuyo being a "Rev" said that he will handle that. The next meeting was scheduled to be on 25th of February 2017 but they changed the venue to Sankara hotel in westlands. The meeting was to review the earlier agreement.
Gakuyo who had the big task of spreading the propaganda stood and started explaining how he will spread the propaganda to remove kabogo for insulting their women.

Gakuyo also with some unidentified mafias had a team of 1,200 People mostly women on ground who made the proganda spread like bush fire and a team of 500 social media experts.
Kabogo was caught unaware, he was also surrounded by a team that was also good in eating his money but campaigning against him.
People within Kiambu county after believing in the insults, agreed to be eating kabogos money but teach him a lesson come nomination time.
It was a done deal. And the gullible electorate removed the best performing governor, who is a strong defender of his people.
Kabogo is a family man who is ever with his wife n his public meetings.
Most of his employees within his office are women hence it was next to impossible to abuse the people around him and working for him.

Who Did Kiambu Elect?
Gakuyo who was earlier accused of grabbing land is a man with his mission in Kiambu. Most properties on lease are meant to expire and his aim is to take the properties for himself and start selling.
Waititu who was once a member of parliament in Embakasi managed to steal chunks of lands hence their fallout with the Nairobi senator Mike Sonko. Who could go out to defend his people, only to find out the real culprit was waititu.
Kabogo was crucified by people who have selfish interests and just mark this post for reference, Watu wa Kiambu watalia.

If you have any audio or video clip of kabogo insulting women, please share here.

KIAMBU COUNTY 022: Know Your Kiambu

Kiambu County

Kiambu County is located in the Central highlands of Kenya in the former Central Province, close to Kenya's capital, Nairobi.

Covering an area of 2,543.42 square kilometers, it is also considered one of the wealthiest counties in Kenya.
It is a leading innovative commercial hub that shares its borders with five other counties;
Nakuru and Kajiado to the West, Murang'a and Nyandarua to the North and Nairobi to the South.
There are several theories that explain the origin of the name kiambu; one theory suggests that it was derived from a prominent Kikuyu clan known as mbari ya mbuu who used to live next to the current day Kiambu town. Another theory suggests the area used to experience constant showers hence the kikuyu phrase ‘kia mbuu'’ meaning the “place of drizzles.”

Kiambu County Government

Kiambu County constitutes twelve constituencies; Gatundu South, Gatundu North, Juja, Thika Town, Ruiru, Githunguri, Kiambu, Kiambaa, Kabete, Kikuyu, Limuru and Lari.

The county's top leaders are William Kabogo (Governor), Wilson Njenga (County Commissioner), Paul Wamatangi (Senator) and Anna Nyokabi (Women Representative).
Other top leaders in Kiambu County include Moses Kuria (MP-Gatundu South), Kigo Njenga (MP-Gatundu North), Francis Waititu (MP-Juja), Alice Nganga (MP-Thika Town), Esther Gathogo (MP-Ruiru), Njoroge Baiya (MP-Githunguri), Jude Njomo (MP-Kiambu), Paul Karuga (MP-Kiambaa), Ferdinand Waititu (MP-Kabete), Anthony Ichungwa (MP-Kikuyu), John K Chege (MP-Limuru), Joseph Kahagara (MP-Lari).

Who lives in Kiambu County?

The population tally in the county according to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics report of 2009 is 1,623,282. Majority of the people living in Kiambu County are Kikuyus - the most populous tribe in Kenya. The county has one of the wealthiest people, among them other ethnicities who primarily work in the civil service, carry out business, are farmers or in informal employment. There is a considerable percentage of Asians and Caucasian population who are in business or working for various foreign missions.
Most Kikuyus living here are predominantly farmers growing tea and coffee as cash crops alongside food crops such as maize, beans, assorted vegetables and sweet potatoes. Other communities living in the county include Luo, Luhya, Maasai, Kamba, Meru, Kalenjin and other ethnic groups from all over Kenya.

Religion and Traditional Culture

Majority of people living in Kiambu county are Christians. Notable among Christian faith are Presbyterian, Methodist, Catholic, Anglican, Pentecostals and Baptists. A small number of residents subscribe to different faiths including Islam and Hinduism.
The Kikuyu people speak Gikuyu; a language widely spoken across the country even in towns where a majority of people speak Kiswahili. English language is primarily used for daily interaction in the education, business and social sector.
The Agikuyu people living in Kiambu originally believed in their ancestral god;ngai, who was thought to live on top of mount Kenya. The locals are believed to have fought and intermarried with the Maasai people from neighbouring Kajiado. In modern day, most Kikuyus have abandoned their traditional beliefs for Christianity.

Major Towns

Kiambu:

Kiambu town is the commercial and administrative capital of Kiambu County. Due to its proximity to the city of Nairobi (16 kilometres), the town hosts key government offices for the main ministries. It's almost considered a suburb of Nairobi with most middle class renting houses here while they make daily commutes to Nairobi for work. The town is witnessing rapid growth with major road infrastucture and complex real estate developments taking place around and neighboring environs.

Ruiru:

Located along the Thika superhighway between Kenyatta University and Juja, Ruiru town is one of the fastest growing towns in the county. It is a busy commercial hub hosting several industries including Devki Steel Mills, Brookside Dairy and Spinners Garment Factory amongst others. It is well connected by road and rail to neighbouring towns.

Thika:

Lying about 40 kilometres from Nairobi, Thika town is popular for the pineapple plantations and the heavy industrial activity. Several industries including the Broadways Bakery, Bidco Oil Refineries, CMC motor vehicle assembly line and Thika Coffee Mills are based here. The town has witnessed rapid growth due to the explosive real estate boom in the county.

Kikuyu:

Kikuyu town lies 20 kilometres northwest of Nairobi. It is mostly a business cum administrative hub with locals indulging in retail and wholesale businesses. Transport to Kikuyu is mostly by road and rail. The town is home to one of the most sought after Eye Referral Hospital and a number of university campuses and top learning institutions are based here, among them Kenya Forestry Research Institute, Thogoto Teachers' College and the famous Alliance high schools for boys and girls.

Climate and Weather

The county enjoys a warm climate with temperatures ranging between 12°C and 18.7°C. The rainfall aggregate for the county is 1000mm each year. The cool climate makes it a conducive for farming. June and July rank as the coldest months while January-March and September-October are the hottest months.

Economic Activities

Kiambu County relies mostly on agriculture and industries to sustain its economy. Although majority of residents are small scale farmers growing tea and coffee, there are several large-scale coffee and tea farms which are serviced by local industries. Local tea factories include Kambaa Tea Factory in Githunguri, Gachege Tea Factory; Kiambu, Ngorongo Tea Factory, Kagwe Tea Factory in Lari and Mundoro Tea Factory in Gatundu.
Coffee growing and marketing is run under the management of farmer’s cooperative unions. Some of the cooperative and growers organizations include Dagoreti & Karai Coffee Growers Co-operative Society, Gititu Farmers Co-operative Society, Komothai Coffee Growers Co-operative Society, Kiambaa Farmers Co-operative Society, Kabete & Muguga Coffee Growers Co-operative Society and Ndumberi Farmers Co-operative Society Ltd.
Kiambu County has a significant presence of various industries which specialize in agricultural based product, natural resources and service provision. Some of the leading industries include, Bogani Industries, Spinners & Spinners Ltd, Del Monte, Brookside, Fresha and Kinale dairies. Other industries are Devki Steel Mills, Carbacid industries, Bata Shoe industry and Uplands Bacon Industry in Limuru. The larger population of people are in retail businesses where they manage hotels and restaurants, new and second hand clothes, foodstuffs, hardware shops and household goods.
The expansion of the Thika Superhighway has opened up the county and led to an explosiion of the real estate market with several big projects under development, such as Tatu City, Thika Greens and Buffalo Hills complexes. Other modern housing developments include Bahati Ridges, Fourways Junction and Juja South schemes.

Health Facilities

With over 300 health facilities, the county has a reliable health service network comprising District Hospitals, Sub-District Hospitals, Dispensaries, Health Centres, Medical Clinics and Nursing Homes. Some of the leading government hospitals include Kiambu District Hospital, Kijabe Hospital, PCEA Kikuyu Hospital, Ruiru Sub District Hospital, Thika District Hospital and Immaculate Heart of Mary Hospital. Private hospitals in Kiambu County include Thika Nursing Home, The Aga Khan Hospital, Mt. Sinai Hospital, Thika, Plainsview Nursing Home; Ruiru, Beta Care Hospital Limited; Githunguri and Naidu Hospital in Thika among others.

Education

As of 2013, there are are 1,133 primary and 313 secondary schools. These run on both the day and boarding system for boys and girls.
Some of the top high schools in Kiambu include St. Ann’s Girls Lioki, Alliance High School, Mangu High School and Loreto Girls High School, Limuru among others. The county has several renowned colleges and universities which include Mount Kenya University; Thika, Kenyatta University, Jomo Kenyatta University of Science and Technology; Juja, Gretsa University; Thika, St Paul’s and Presbyterian University; Limuru and Kiriri Women’s University Of Science and Technology.
Other top colleges and technical institutes are Kiambu Institute Of Technology, Thika Institute of Technology, Kabete Technical Institute, Thika College of Banking and Accounting, Kenya Baptist Theological College, Amboseli Training Institute, Jodan College of Technology in Thika and the Limuru Youth Agricultural Centre.

Notable Personalities

Kiambu County has perhaps the highest population of prominent people among them Kenya's first President and founding father Jomo Kenyatta, Kenya's current President Uhuru Kenyatta, former Attorney General Charles Njonjo, business tycoon Munga Githunguri, Kenya literary scholar Ngugi Wa Thiongo and seasoned lawyer Paul Muite among hundreds of others.

Attractions and Places of Interest

Kiambu County offers numerous attractions. These include the Mau Mau caves in Kereita Forest in Lari. These caves were used by the Mau Mau fighters to hide from colonial soldiers. Paradise Lost along Kiambu road is a breathtaking picnic forest with rich fauna and flora. You will experience a grand sight of the epic 14 Falls as 14 different waterfalls on River Tana converge in one large pool.
The Limuru Viewpoint on the Nakuru-Nairobi highway offers a fantastic view of the Great Rift Valley and antique curio shops. For the golf enthusiast, you will find some legendary golf courses in this county which include Sigona, Ndumberi, Windsor and Kiambu golf clubs.

Travelling to Kiambu County

The county relies on road transport for goods and passengers. It takes about 20 minutes of travel from Nairobi to Kiambu town, 30 minutes from Nairobi to Ruiru and approximately 45 minutes to Thika. You can get to Kikuyu from Nairobi in 35 minutes while Nairobi to Githunguri will take 50 minutes. Travellers can enjoy modern road service of the new Northern bypass which stretches from Mombasa Road - Ruiru - Ruaka.
There's an active railroad transport system from the Railways Bus Station in Nairobi to several towns. The public trains managed by Rift Valley Railways are mostly used for goods and passengers transport to Ruiru, Kikuyu, Thika and Dagoretti. There is no air transport to the county.

Accommodation

There is a wide array of hotels, resorts and golf clubs that offer budget to high-end accommodation in Kiambu County to locals and visitors. Some of the leading hotels include the Kentmere Club, Windsor Golf & Country Club, Fourteen Falls Lodge and Sportsview Hotel. Others are Blue Post hotel; Thika, Kiambu club, Rainbow Resort in Ruiru and Hotel La Mada.

Guest Information

Banks:

Kiambu county is a hotbed of businesses both small and large scale. As such, you are bound to find almost all mainstream banks represented, among them Family Bank, Standard Chartered, Equity, Cooperative, KCB, DTB, Barclays and National Bank of Kenya. Kiambu is well served by mobile money agents from Safaricom’s Mpesa and Airtel money.

Shopping:

Kiambu County is served by a network of wholesale, retail chain supermarkets and grocery stores. Visitors and tourists will find numerous shopping malls and leading chain of supermarkets in major towns of the county. Shopping malls include the village market, Nakumatt, Tuskys, Clean Shelf and Kamindi Supermarkets. Others are Kikuyu Mattresses and Amazing Grace Supermarket. There are wholesale outlets and major depots for basic commodities in major towns including Ruiru, Kikuyu, Thika, Karuri and Kabete among other towns.






Source: Kenya Information Guide

KABOGO Will WIN: TIFA Resesarch Polls

The latest polls by research firm Trends and Insights for Africa(TIFA) indicate that Kiambu Governor William Kabogo would retain their seats if elections were held today. In the poll that shows that the Jubilee Party is the most popular political party in President Uhuru Kenyatta’s home county of Kiambu with 90 per cent popularity, also shows that Kiambu Governor Kabogo has 46 per cent popularity while Kabete MP Ferdinand Waititu with 33 per cent

 

The trend showing that Kabogo’s popularity has increased while Waititu’s has taken a tumble over the last six months. 16 per cent of the respondents were undecided.

Governor Kabogo: Kiambu to Receive The First Group of Indian Doctors this week

Governor William Kabogo has said that Kiambu county will be expecting the first batch of Indian doctors this week, to replace those on strike. Speaking on Friday in Juja during the launch of a matatu sacco, he said his administration has decided to act as residents of the county have suffered for three months and this cannot be allowed to continue.
He said patients have been yearning for high-quality healthcare services, but the absence of doctors has undermined this.

The county is targeting 30 doctors from India to restore order in its health sector.
The Governor said the doctors from India will be on a one-year contract, during which the county will train new doctors. He said he would not sit back and watch patients die.

“Kenyans continue to feel the heat of the strike. We have had to look for doctors out there to replace the striking ones,” Kabogo said,“We will not allow Kenyans to suffer any further.”

He said the government had done its best to listen to the doctors, but poor patients continue to suffer.
Several counties have said they will this week start sacking medics who do not resume duty and hire new ones from other countries.

The Doctors strike has been on since December 5and is on its 99th day. They initially demanded a 300 per cent pay increase.

(Pictures below of Thika Level 5 Hospital)

THE CHAPATI FORUM: Preview

                                                    #ChapatiForum

Led by #ChapatiForum Founder and FOCUS Patron, Roman Kariuki together with Ruiru Professionals Association(RPA) members, the initiative started with the Youths of Ruiru, Kiambu County, who came out to offer service back to the society through humanitarian works by coming together, uniting and put smiles on children at Children Centers(For orphans,physically challenged) and homes of the less fortunate. Here, lots and lots of Chapatis are cooked, several children homes visited, Foods, Clothing, among other goodies are donated, have fun with the children, motivating and reminding them that our society values them as our little brothers and sisters.

 Brief History

#ChapatiForum started as a small party back in 2010 at FOCUS Ruiru, a center hosting orphans and children from less fortunate families. A few more #ChapatiForums followed at the centre before the initiative expanded and began to be held in different children homes, upon invitations from the patrons/administrators. During the event,  invited guests from the Ruiru Professionals Association(RPA) came in large numbers and helped in preparing chapatis for the little souls. The kids merried, for we know chapati is a rare delicacy in most children homes. Since then, RPA members have been volunteers in #ChapatiForum, spearheading preparations in most events held in and around Kiambu County. So far, many homes from Ruiru, Gatundu, Soweto slums, Githurai, Nakuru(Njoro), Nairobi and Kilimambogo among others have hosted the #ChapatiForum event, support being received from individuals in conjuction with other groups and we have also seen corporate sponsors in form of companies come in to help. Many more children homes are yet to host the initiative, as the passion is unending.

Donations

 In every event, the public is invited through various organizations, groups, companies or individuals to come in with donations of foodstuffs needed to make #ChapatiForum a success e.g, Wheat Flour, Cooking Fat, Charcoal, Rice, Potatoes, Meat, Soft drinks among others which contribute to a successful  party day for the kids. The donations are collected from well wishers and other corporate sponsors.

Time. Talent. Treasure

 #RotaractClubOfZetech has played a major role in various chapati forums, bringing in a large team of volunteer students who provide excellent manpower and help in preparations alongside other large number of individual/groups volunteers in cooking of Chapati and stew. RPA, AmoLaModa Modelling Agency, KCYDA, Rotaract Club of Zetech University(just to mention a few) and other teams have taken part in Chapati Forums, bringing in a team of volunteers who offer their Time, Talent and Treasure. Since then, hundreds of Youths, Leaders, Clergymen/Women and business people have all become part of the initiative.

Karibu
Everyone is invited for the next initiative(See Facebook Page by Clicking here- CHAPATI FORUM), bring in any foodstuffs from Maize or Wheat Flour, Rice, Beans, Maize, Cooking fat, Sugar, Sodas, Juice, Charcoal etc. Also, Carrots, peas, potatoes, tomatoes, etc for preparing stew. Clothings, beddings and any other forms of support are welcome. The #ChapatiForum event day is to let those kids and the less fortunate in our society have what they don’t have all the time; Us as their Big brothers and Sisters as we mentor and encourage them about their future plans and above all, eating Chapatis! Karibuni!

To assist with donations, got to M-PESA PAYBILL: 584091, A/c: CHAPATI and send your donation.  

See More on Facebook: CHAPATI FORUM 

Twitter: @ChapatiForumKe

                                                       (Photos of Some of the very first ChapatiForum events)

                                         

                                                   

Elder JOHN, A Youth Advocating For Youths; Kenyan Youths, Stand Up Now!

A Call to The Youths

The youths have an expressive outlook on social-economic and political issues, but politicians have not been deliberate in tackling issues of concern to the youth.

"Our generation is not represented in politics and we do not feel engaged and involved. It is time to vote for the youth to represent and advocate for youth issues. I call on the youth to stand up - to take a stand. As youths we need to raise our voices right across the political environment, loud enough that we are ready to lead and serve in excellence", Said Mr. John Njoroge (below), the National Youth Patron of Maendeleo Ya Vijana  - Kenya. The vibrant 33 Year old father of two is already a patron of various church groups and a board member at local schools. He is also an  Elder of the PCEA Church.

Strong And Progressive Leadership

Speaking to Kiambu 101 in an exclusive interview, Mr. John Njoroge, also known as Elder John, who believes in the youth of our country and their role in forming a formidable team in our country's political and democratic landscape, noted that the young people are as passionate, visionary with different perspectives and a host of innovative ideas. "I understand the value and importance of politics in our society, and thus the reason why we must have a strong and progressive principled leadership", he said.

The Maendeleo Ya Vijana Patron noted that when we have a society that is youthful, the leadership within organizations and the society needs to be young. "Kenya needs new ideas to reposition our society and elevate our country to a whole new level. If we think the youth are capable and should be involved in making decisions about who is elected, it follows that the youth should also be encouraged to run for office", he pointed out.

Vote For The Youth

Elder John passionately believes that it is indeed critical for the youth to engage in and with politics, particularly through democratic political parties to ensure holistic participation in socio-economic development as well as keeping policies fair and sustainable for future generations.

The youth patron adds, "The youth must also register as voters. And the youth, 35 years and below, should seek for elective positions in next year's elections. Even if the youth do not win in elections, our participation in elective politics will continue to grow and enhance the democratic process. It is only a fellow youth who is in touch with issues that concern the youth. At Maendeleo Ya Vijana - Kenya we are nurturing youth leadership through a leadership program, #Below35Kenya. We believe that it is important to inspire and mentor the younger generation on leadership."


                                       

Good For Devolution
He added that in giving the youth a chance to play roles in decision-making will increasingly improve, open and move Kenyan politics forward.

"With youths joining the political arena, it would not only be good for devolution, but necessary for the attainment of Kenya's Vision 2030 and successful continuous implementation of the our great Constitution. Our society must encourage youth interest and opinion on political matters", he concluded.

(To see how you can register click here Maendeleo Ya Vijana )

Victoria Beckham Visits Kiambu, received by H.E Philomena Kabogo

Kiambu

The United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS goodwill ambassador Mrs Victoria Beckham visited Kiambu County on Thursday to witness and experience the success of the First Lady Margaret Kenyatta's Beyond Zero campaign to reduce maternal and child mortality.

Mrs Beckham, who was accompanied by her son, were received by Governor William Kabogo’s wife, Her Excellency Philomena Kabogo in Limuru.

Manchester United Icon

Mrs Beckham, the wife of former Manchester United iconic player and one of the world's richest footballers David Beckham, arrived in Kenya for a visit that comes at a period when the infant and maternal mortality rate in the area and the entire country has drastically reduced since the program took root.

Donated Mobile Clinic and an Ambulance 

Mrs Beckham thanked H.E Philomena Kabogo for the warm reception she had received with traditional dancers performing,  before donating a mobile clinic and an ambulance.

Kiambu County Needs Governor Kabogo at the Helm For 5 More Years

Development conscious people will agree with me on this: H.E William Kabogo has worked hard enough during his first term as the first Governor of  Kiambu County. This is because of his focus on lifting the standards of the people of this great county. Governor Kabogo through the County office of Youth Affairs, created the Kiambu Biashara Fund which is one of his flagship projects under the leadership of Youth Executive Machel  Waikenda. This fund is meant to help the Youth, Women and people living with disabilities.

Recently, the Governor increased the Kiambu Biashara Fund from Kshs 300 million to Kshs 400 million.(The target of the fund kitty is Kshs 1 Billion due to rising demand.)
Over 70%people in Kiambu County rely on Agri-business and small businesses-good news to small  farmers and entrepreneurs.

Another great improvement under his tenure is on matters health. Hospitals are/have been raised to Level 4 standards, with great improvements in service delivery. Thika Level 5 Hospital offers dialysis free to NHIF patients, twice a week. The hospitals have also introduced top quality and personalized dental care. With an upcoming Kidney Research Centre in Ruiru, Kiambu is set to hopefully conduct its first ever Kidney transplant by Kiambu doctors.  All this because the health sector was devolved to the county governments.  

Shifting to his re-election bid, the Governor needs to focus more on winning the youth and women votes. This is in line with his first flagship project, the Kiambu Biashara funds. A lot of our youths need opportunities. The youths represent the largest voting block. Easy access to the loans is a great plus to his 2017 bid. The youths needs frequent seminars, done through his government on open opportunities towards achieving the best. Women play a greater role in influencing their families. And speaking of women power, we all know what they can do. A good example is on the women chamas at the grassroot levels. We have seen vast improvements in their homes, as a result of proper managements of their chamas. 
Githurai, Ruiru and Thika are the largest vote rich areas. Kiambu and its environs too have boarded his ship. He is strengthening and maintaining his strongholds through his development progress. Easy access roads, proper drainage and piped water to homes are the win points. At the grassroots level, opportunities to the youths and the women, majority who are in farming, is an added vote. Loans and access roads to their farms. Farm Produce needs to reach the markets. Through the Ward Administrators, His Excellency Kabogo can reach even the most marginalized area for their vote.  If a Gubernatorial debate is to be held today and focus streamlined to development, the Governor would win 10-0.

So, as we head for the next financial year, let the focus be on Countywide infrastructure & urban planning. My opinion stands as Governor Kabogo still the best to spearhead growth of our beloved county Kiambu. His determination to make Kiambu the best makes me rate him 10/10.

By Arap Karuri