tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32782145454674244822024-02-06T21:54:41.784-08:00 NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICESThis blog is sponsored by Arid Lands Information Network (ALIN)NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICEShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09514752732757366753noreply@blogger.comBlogger28125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3278214545467424482.post-72725411448660580672014-08-14T00:54:00.000-07:002014-08-14T00:54:01.093-07:00Lorika Foundation, The Mother of Many<i><b>By Maison Nteetu</b></i><br />
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Many young children would like to join schools be it primary
or secondary schools to ensure they cope with the current generation. However,
it is not their faults or even their parents’ if they fail to do so. They sometimes
lack finances to carter their school fees and other needs. Education is
becoming expensive though it has also become a basic need.</div>
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Olorika Foundation came out as the source of hope for the
needy society in the year 2005. It extended from Nguruman to many places
including Shompole, Oloika, Olkiramatian and Oloserian. Mr. Bonde came up with
the foundation after realizing the suffering and how needy the society is.</div>
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The foundation has sponsored the following in its mission of
helping the needy.</div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Students’ school fees payment</div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Provision of teachers’ salary.</div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]-->Provision of water drams and</div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Provision of library books for some schools.</div>
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<b>Students’ school fees payment<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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The foundation sponsors a hundred
and fifty secondary and primary students. Seventy two students are from
Olkiramatian primary school while sixty five students are in Patterson Memorial
Secondary school. The other thirteen are in different secondary schools. </div>
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Some of the students are partially
sponsored while others are fully sponsored. This was arrived at after realizing
that other students are from extreme poverty affected families while others are
from poor but not extreme poor families.45 students in primary school are
partially sponsored in primary schools while 27 are fully sponsored. In secondary
school, 20 students are fully sponsored while 45 are partially sponsored.</div>
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<b>Teachers’ Salaries <o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Olorika foundation
pays salaries for some primary school teachers. It pays 2 Olkiramatian primary
school teachers, 3 from Entasopia and one from Pakaase primary school.</div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The
foundation donated 100 library books to Patterson Secondary school. The
foundation supplied 20 tanks to the community members. These helped in the
environmental conservation.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL1GcyaE_ywQ91oxfMs1RnJpDHABg66pK0-lYERluPNWs7CSC2upkahrANDr07-DDR6dtqynNK5wsFpSrcTSk2yiXLOKmAzrEntrWeLW3oGugNKoZel2uwExnPu4shAiIrZ7AERhWeio0/s1600/DSC07598.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL1GcyaE_ywQ91oxfMs1RnJpDHABg66pK0-lYERluPNWs7CSC2upkahrANDr07-DDR6dtqynNK5wsFpSrcTSk2yiXLOKmAzrEntrWeLW3oGugNKoZel2uwExnPu4shAiIrZ7AERhWeio0/s1600/DSC07598.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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<i><b>Olorika foundation beneficiaries in a
meeting</b><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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From 2012 however, there was a delay in payment of school
fees. Mr. Bonde explained the situation and promised he should have not let
them suffer if he was capable of controlling what he is undergoing.</div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Mr. Bonde is undergoing financial difficulties
as his source of finances is affected by frequent attacks. He called the whole
community to join him in prayers to help him out of the difficulties.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
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<i><b>Mr. Bonde addressing the meeting</b><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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“I can’t promise for any help now as I am struggling to
recover from losses caused by my assailants. I will be back to help you if God
help me through.” Said Mr. Bonde. </div>
NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICEShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09514752732757366753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3278214545467424482.post-1443132059702704512014-05-18T01:26:00.001-07:002014-05-18T01:45:23.998-07:00Oil exploration in Olkiramatian faces opposition from the community members <div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>By Maison Nteetu</i></b></div>
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The National Oil Corporation of Kenya (<a href="http://nationaloil.co.ke/">NOCK</a>) sent explorers
to Olkiramatian, Shompole, Olkeri and Oldonyonyokie to explore oil in the
areas. The National Oil explorers set camps in the area and they have already
started their research task. </div>
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Despite provision of job opportunities for the community
members, the community calls for an end of the research due to many reasons.</div>
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The members accused the organization for starting their
exploration without explaining the advantages and the disadvantages of the act.
The organization should have conducted a civic education before their
activities. </div>
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Members also claim that according some rumours, the
residents were to be displaced 50 kilometres radius from plant. </div>
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This annoyed them
since the community claims that the land is becoming too little for them and their
next generation. They also claimed that
they are in the boarder and any further relocation means they will lack places
to move to.</div>
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The conservancy of the area also claims that the research is
causing destruction of trees and grass which is the source of food for their
livestock and wild animals which act as the main tourist attraction in the
area. The noise produced by the machines has also caused migration of wild
animals to other areas.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="text-align: start;"><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Area MCA Honorable Pariken addressing the meeting held in Laleenok by both the NOCK side and the members of the community. Photo by Maison</span></b></i></td></tr>
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The NOCK side promised to give civic education. They also
promised to give 4.2 million Kenyan Shillings as compensation for the four areas to divide among
themselves. </div>
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The community leaders however, insisted that the exploration
should end since the disadvantages are more than advantages.</div>
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NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICEShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09514752732757366753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3278214545467424482.post-7216574391513584202014-02-06T06:42:00.000-08:002014-02-06T06:42:10.613-08:00Community members bear bus rivalry brunt<div class="MsoNormal">
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Nguruman community members are furious about the operation
of two buses plying Nguruman-magadi-kiserian route after the two operators
failed to agree on operating hours. The buses have been chasing each other
leaving the community members stranded as they are the only means of transport
to Magadi. If anybody needs to travel, he/she has to be up at 1:30 am as there
is no specified time when the bus will leave.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Intervention by the local administration failed to bear the
fruits when they called the two bus operators and drafted a schedule of which
the operators discarded and retained their normal schedule. Sometimes by 2:30
am, all the buses have left while in other occasions they even leave earlier.<o:p></o:p></div>
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“We feel annoyed by the conduct of the two bus operators and
it our wish that they agree on specific time so we can be sure when to leave
our homes to the bus stop”. Said Mr. Mburu, a resident. some people even spend the nights inside the buses to avoid the inconvenience and in fear of being left.</div>
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NCV calls upon the relevant authorities to take action and address the issue.</div>
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NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICEShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09514752732757366753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3278214545467424482.post-20547936774439484362014-02-03T06:43:00.000-08:002014-02-04T00:52:44.651-08:00One hurt as insecurity rocks Nguruman<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>By Kelvin Koinet</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
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In
the past two days, insecurity has rocked Nguruman area where one person was
shot by suspected gangsters on loose.<o:p></o:p><br />
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The
suspects allegedly killed two people near Tanzania Kenyan border. The two had
escaped from Tanzania and headed to Nguruman.
A brother of one of the deceased communicated from Tanzania and gave
full information about the incident. As reported, the two; Noeli and Isaiya
Simiyu robbed Gema village in Loliondo Tanzania and escaped towards Nguruman in
Kenya through a road that leads to Shompole Market. <o:p></o:p><br />
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Tanzania
Police accompanied by civilians were ambushed by the suspects as they tracked them
where two were killed. This happened on Wednesday evening around 4:00 Pm the 29th
Jan 2014 A day after the Shompole market day. On
Friday the two suspects were identified by a guy who sought anonymity for
security purposes, and reported to the Laleenok community Rangers, Nguruman AP
post and the Administration chiefs. The search began and on Saturday morning
the two were caught by the chief with the help of Laleenok rangers, the police
and the residents.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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On
the other side, the government of Tanzania had communicated and asked to be given
the 'criminals' from their country. Nguruman residents kept guard of the
suspects until they were ensured by the police that they will not escape. At around
7.00 pm the suspects escaped police custody. The
chase began again where one was caught at Congo forest where they agreed to
meet with his partner. </div>
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The other suspect had arrived earlier to the spot where they hid
their gun, picked it and headed to the escarpment. As another search team followed
him, he laid in wait and shot one resident in the right hand. He is still being
searched but with fear as the Tanzania police said the suspects are trained in
gun handling and are known to be sharp shooters.<br />
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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</div>
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NCV
team will keep you posted on new developments.<o:p></o:p></div>
NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICEShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09514752732757366753noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3278214545467424482.post-34423704213486628312013-10-28T02:57:00.000-07:002013-11-07T02:58:35.958-08:00Environmental Health day held successfully<b><i>By James Mathu</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
What started as normal training by Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) in collaboration with Fadhili trust on environmental issues bore the idea to hold Environmental health and safety day. The training was meant to encourage farmers within Nguruman irrigation scheme to take charge of their environment by cleaning their surrounding. A joint effort by MOA, Ministry of health (MOH), Fadhili Trust,IWUA and ALIN saw the environmental health day held on 25th October, 2013 a success.<br />
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As per the plan, the day begun with destroying charcol kiln that were mounted illegally. Community rangers, MOA and the area chiefs were at the scene to supervise the whole process. every one at the scene wore a 'no nonsense' face sending a clear signal to the audience that, charcoal burning in Nguruman was not a permitted practice.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A commuity member opens up a charcoal kiln in presence<br />of community wardens and area chiefs.<b><i> Photo by James Mathu</i></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charcoal kiln reduced to ashes as a lesson to other offenders</td></tr>
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Other activities picked up as agreed with students from three primary schools armed with banners bearing different messages some of which read <b style="font-style: italic;">'Usihatarishe soko yetu ya matunda kwa kuchafua mazingira' (</b>Don't endanger our horticultural market by polluting the environment) where children chanted many slogans like '<i style="font-weight: bold;">chimba choo na utumie' </i>(dig up a pit latrine and use it).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcvZhCeE9jjYWqtVjuGLvBJrWyT3Sp_A1sdVx5CD3flLTOLavaxmCvr44qeSTsoLeu_ogTZuhqdQS41tgJlkdCGl37R-w1FkK771R2qHTR_0VyocFMP65-e_Cm_H-BEjjHex3liL2nQN8/s1600/DSC00621.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcvZhCeE9jjYWqtVjuGLvBJrWyT3Sp_A1sdVx5CD3flLTOLavaxmCvr44qeSTsoLeu_ogTZuhqdQS41tgJlkdCGl37R-w1FkK771R2qHTR_0VyocFMP65-e_Cm_H-BEjjHex3liL2nQN8/s320/DSC00621.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Students with different information materials <b><i>photo by James Mathu</i></b></td></tr>
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The voices of the small angles echoed even inside the woods as they went on to collect and destroy garbage around the shopping centre where shop owners and and the town residents also participated. The climax of the event went down when the area chief invaded the illicit brew dens and poured over 200 liters leaving the lovers of the drink saddened.<br />
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Different community groups entertained guests passing different messages to the participants. some of the messages included; logging as illegal act, polluting the rivers by bathing and washing in them and defecating near river courses messages which were echoed by the area chief while addressing the congregation. A stern warning was issued to the offenders and a legal action agreed upon an action that was welcomed by all community members present during the occasion.<br />
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The participants chanted a slogan <i style="font-weight: bold;">'We have done it.. It should be repeated every month' </i>to end the days ceremony.NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICEShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09514752732757366753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3278214545467424482.post-14539642016820691122013-10-10T08:26:00.000-07:002013-10-10T08:26:20.380-07:00Passing information through drama<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Pepea community initiative group is a registered non profit group located in Nguruman area, Magadi division Kajiado west sub-county. It has set its objectives to salvaging the girl child and educating the whole community on issues of importance to their development. The group has its priorities on education, educating people on effects of early marriages, drug abuse, HIV & Aids and female genital Mutilation and alternative rite of passage. <div>
<br /></div>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2lwRhvsLjG3lnW9u9oNTiSD9sX1l88l8EfVpbE-xPWPsfhHHrUZ9vBe7p4Gsqmpjr741V6qPlICqlO-zOv0CdukJjtQZICn5hZ3M1sXX0DiSEhA5ie1WZuwt6yXUazdiWLDl20HoLv2Q/s1600/compressed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2lwRhvsLjG3lnW9u9oNTiSD9sX1l88l8EfVpbE-xPWPsfhHHrUZ9vBe7p4Gsqmpjr741V6qPlICqlO-zOv0CdukJjtQZICn5hZ3M1sXX0DiSEhA5ie1WZuwt6yXUazdiWLDl20HoLv2Q/s400/compressed.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><b><i>Pepea group members at a church function</i></b></td></tr>
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<div>
<div>
The group passes its messages through organized drama sessions in churches, schools, public gatherings and private functions. The drama caries a certain theme depending on the occasion and though their intervention, they have reaches quite a large number of community members. After each play, the group engages its audience in an interactive sessions where questions and answers are shared regarding the theme and what the community member would like see next time.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"We have been able to engage the community during our drama shows and some of the issues have been addressed... we have received a lot of positive response from community members who want specific issues featured on the next shows.." Mr. Parantae, Group chairman.</div>
<div>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit0B331NmdKCS0oHIM7XvzVyJutzElHuBiSlDlG_EEKc3x4GTw-LIJeimfAgRSxqI3803XjeFXaylhTfMckvpHdkvAoLbx7-sKaKBXC4MUt_LIzlNkA9Hhbnfcjl7giCLEFKOdNk0mdvw/s1600/public+gathering.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit0B331NmdKCS0oHIM7XvzVyJutzElHuBiSlDlG_EEKc3x4GTw-LIJeimfAgRSxqI3803XjeFXaylhTfMckvpHdkvAoLbx7-sKaKBXC4MUt_LIzlNkA9Hhbnfcjl7giCLEFKOdNk0mdvw/s400/public+gathering.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><b><i>Pepea group acting a play during a public gathering</i></b></td></tr>
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<div>
The group has ability to bring more change, however they lack resources to enable them reach other community members, far and wide within the county who need the information and therefore is seeking support from well wishers to enable them accomplish their goal</div>
</div>
NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICEShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09514752732757366753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3278214545467424482.post-43017486749533971022013-07-29T06:16:00.000-07:002013-07-29T06:16:08.310-07:00Climate Change county level management committee formed<div class="MsoNormal">
Four months ago, a zebra attacked and ate alive a young boy
in Musenke location during the last dry spell in the area. Since then, there
has been a number of incidences reported where zebra due to lack of pasture
have attacked human beings. In the past when rains could be predicted,
pastoralists used to allow their sheep to mate during the dry season between
June and July so that the lambs will be born at the beginning of the short
rains. Availability of pasture and water ensured survival of lambs; since rains
became unpredictable and droughts became more severe, sheep are allowed to mate
throughout. Wild fruits and vegetables
used to form part of the daily meals for the residents of Nguruman, nowadays
most of these naturally occurring plants no longer exist. <br />
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<div class="MsoNormal">
These are some of the stories that came up on the 25<sup>th</sup>
of July 2013 during a meeting that brought together state actors and CSOs to
deliberate on the effects of climate change and come up with mitigation
strategies that involved all stakeholders.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Provincial administration, the ministry of Agriculture and
non state organizations working in three locations – Olkiramatian West,
Olkiramatian East and Musenke - attended the meeting where they all agreed that
climate change effects are crosscutting and touch on all the areas of their
operation. Non state actors present included the organizers of the meeting
Kenya Climate Change Working Group (KCCWG), Arid Lands Information Network
(ALIN), South Rift Association of Land Owners (SORALO) and Oldonyo Laro
limited. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDJGu6rx22E-mDvHDe4qI0GOmYbeHNrsyKhDQd7SNLrkOAUFKkR-kLI2jH4vrlgt8CehE4U3o-KcDk5LCiDyvy4qtMhYKSKkKG-pJ7uZtG_S9CSURn6PYv1BCC6LD7dj48VO226HOuH4g/s1600/DSC04366.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDJGu6rx22E-mDvHDe4qI0GOmYbeHNrsyKhDQd7SNLrkOAUFKkR-kLI2jH4vrlgt8CehE4U3o-KcDk5LCiDyvy4qtMhYKSKkKG-pJ7uZtG_S9CSURn6PYv1BCC6LD7dj48VO226HOuH4g/s400/DSC04366.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
State actors and SCOs representatives at the meeting</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A committee made up of representatives from state and non
state actors and headed by the Divisional officer was formed to deal with
environmental degradation issues and create a joint worplan – from August to
December – of activities and advocacy campaigns.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Top on the committees agenda is controlling illegal
harvesting of trees by educating the public on the laws and policies governing
harvesting of trees and ensuring that these laws are followed, banning
unlicensed power saws, centralizing the issuance of permits to cut trees,
creating a fast reaction mechanism in cases in dealing with offenders and
banning charcoal trade.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
According to meeting proceedings, Most of the charcoal
produced in Nguruman is transported to other areas – residents of the three sub-locations
use firewood which is easily available. Traders have started cunningly concealing
charcoal in crates and bags made for agricultural products to evade impound at
the Kenya Wildlife Service Nguruman station.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The new committee shall organize 2 open days where farmers
and organizations will discuss and share information on climate change and
participate in tree planting exercises. In
addition to this, the committee will hold 5 monthly barazzas, one in each
sub-location to create awareness on the issue of climate change in order to
involve the public in mitigation efforts.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghITVu7sd594_SVabnjZa-D2knGzzyy1faUwpVLUjWtGY3ZREj1E-rLa-rPxgTrY_BQbxrjz6IP0ivhiZ1FjADPIDDA_xv29k4itnoegXLUgISdWN19LhD8kHUDSeyGxxblXoNjgdF1CA/s1600/DSC04380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghITVu7sd594_SVabnjZa-D2knGzzyy1faUwpVLUjWtGY3ZREj1E-rLa-rPxgTrY_BQbxrjz6IP0ivhiZ1FjADPIDDA_xv29k4itnoegXLUgISdWN19LhD8kHUDSeyGxxblXoNjgdF1CA/s400/DSC04380.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Mr. Bainito Atonya, Division Agricultural Extension Officer</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
- Magadi Division - addresses an advocacy meeting.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One such meeting was organized by the
Ministry of Agriculture on 27<sup>th</sup> July 2013 at Entasopia market where
farmers were briefed on the formation of the committee and its mandate.</div>
NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICEShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09514752732757366753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3278214545467424482.post-945843024991273272013-06-21T06:40:00.002-07:002013-07-02T02:38:27.814-07:00Nguruman bus crash<b><i>By Emmanuel Kimeu</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
The only bus plying Nguruman-Magadi-Kiserian route was this morning involved in an accident in corner Maziwa along Magadi Kiserian road just past Kisames shopping centre. The bus was heading to Kiserian, a town in the outskirts of Kenyas capital Nairobi. Sources close to NCV informed that, no casualties were reported although sores of people were injured including the driver and his assistants.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCNO9EXEsY-2Kxf6hUqzDw-PcM6z7gHMKZTtkH7IB2UyxOriT0TkHe2rjg8RaYho3vT261YNclF9NOyKhMlK2D8an1u9XtShoZ6VqxtyzU8JbKFjDXZQ0ZXpxm8GB0DqEycbRF21McE6w/s1600/1008733_531417300240337_1063445217_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCNO9EXEsY-2Kxf6hUqzDw-PcM6z7gHMKZTtkH7IB2UyxOriT0TkHe2rjg8RaYho3vT261YNclF9NOyKhMlK2D8an1u9XtShoZ6VqxtyzU8JbKFjDXZQ0ZXpxm8GB0DqEycbRF21McE6w/s400/1008733_531417300240337_1063445217_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: medium;"><i>Ostrich bus after the accident<br />Photo by Harun Wanyondu</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The murram road from Magadi to Nguruman was adversely affected by the flash floods during the April-may rains which left most parts of the roads partially passable. The state of the road has discouraged many Matatu owners and other investors who fear to incur high cost of maintaining their vehicles and therefore opt to keep off the route leaving the only bus 'Ostrich' to enjoy monopoly in the route.<br />
<br />
Despite Nguruman being very productive, its roads are in a sorry state and this has been a loop hole for the exporters to buy produce from farmers at low prices. NCV urges the concerned leaders to take action and ensure that the roads are repaired so as to attract more investors and ease transport challenges for residents living in Nguruman, Olkiramatian and its environs.NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICEShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09514752732757366753noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3278214545467424482.post-85997125081673002812013-06-17T09:11:00.001-07:002013-06-17T09:18:30.846-07:00Plane crash leaves four injured at Ewaso airstrip, Nguruman.<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><i>By Kelvin Koinet</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">A 5y-BPL six
passenger plane crashed today at Ewaso airstrip at 13:37 hrs and left all the
three passengers and the pilot seriously injured. The plane just arrived to
Ewaso airstrip at Oltaraja-Olkiramatian, from Wilson airport and was leaving
for Oldonyo Olaro limited a few </span></span><span style="line-height: 18px;">kilometres</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"> eastern of the camp. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">Oldonyo Olaro
limited is a private company that runs Oldonyo Olaro ranch bordering
Olkiramatian, Shompole and Loita group ranches. The company has a tourist camp
at Oltaraja within Olkiramatian group ranch along Ewaso ngiro south river. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">Some of the
staff that came to Ewaso camp yesterday were to be airlifted to Oldonyo Olaro. The
plane arrived at the airstrip at around one O’clock to pick the staff members. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">When Nguruman
community voices (NCV) arrived at Entasopia Health centre where the casualties
were rushed some eleven </span></span><span style="line-height: 18px;">kilometres</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"> from the scene, two of them were on drip. The
pilot was not able to talk to us due to serious injuries and pain. <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5xOATEZGcymNO7HFhHcw0CVP3HD2xEF72W0JG8GJ6A0EUeMxfdDL3kTvYMqkHuy7V8SWUy_LGO91zw7I9C5XP_ay7Gvk-5LI621vLbGy_UhfLhFS2QlsiwrqKXwtRWMJzyxIqUNB9HpM/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5xOATEZGcymNO7HFhHcw0CVP3HD2xEF72W0JG8GJ6A0EUeMxfdDL3kTvYMqkHuy7V8SWUy_LGO91zw7I9C5XP_ay7Gvk-5LI621vLbGy_UhfLhFS2QlsiwrqKXwtRWMJzyxIqUNB9HpM/s400/blog.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>One of the injured passengers awaiting to be transferred to Nairobi.<br />Photo-Kelvin Koi</i></b><b><i>net</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 115%;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">‘We started
taking off. ….and within a minute…….when we had gone up about five meters, I heard
a big thud of the plane hitting the ground’ John, a consultant manager explained in deep pain of
his injured arm. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">‘When I looked
out I saw the left wing of the plane had broken off….after a short while, I found
myself struggling to get out of the completely damaged plane.’ <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 18px;">A police officer from Oldonyo Olaro who sought anonymity</span><span style="line-height: 18px;"> said, the cause of the crash was not clear but... 'We presume that it might have been caused by bad weather'. he said. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 18px;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">A rescue
plane send to take the casualties to Nairobi for treatment through Entasopia
airstrip was unable to land due to the state of airstrip. The airstrip has
overgrown <i>prosopis julifora </i>a shrub with sharp and hard thorns commonly known
as ‘Mathenge.’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUN_4st0sSZgCtsQPa_TG58F8vIFbfXFzwUhWABIttrfEBlsm7wEUX0wHuIpC_lsAdg_85lpGgbE_jWoi6d4BaiLKEMJ2iE_hPQY76d_wMz2Wyt0RycZSmTeMJwDyymliI6gZn4IJ8vi8/s1600/blog3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUN_4st0sSZgCtsQPa_TG58F8vIFbfXFzwUhWABIttrfEBlsm7wEUX0wHuIpC_lsAdg_85lpGgbE_jWoi6d4BaiLKEMJ2iE_hPQY76d_wMz2Wyt0RycZSmTeMJwDyymliI6gZn4IJ8vi8/s400/blog3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">A section of the airstrip showing 'Mathenge' shrubs<br />Photo-Kelvin Koinet</span></i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">It is long
time now since the community engaged in a community work. Most of the infrastructure
including roads, water channels and the airstrip are in bad conditions. The community
is laying the blame on the chiefs and the group ranch leaders for failing to organize
the community for community work.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">NCV is calling the community and the relevant authorizes
to act to bring back the spirit of communal work and maintain the airstrip and
the other infrastructure in good condition. <span style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICEShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09514752732757366753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3278214545467424482.post-4733914297517470602013-04-19T08:42:00.001-07:002013-04-19T08:42:58.147-07:00Business and other major activities at minimal in Nguruman as floods persist<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><i>By Francis
Maina and Kelvin Koinet.</i></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Following the recent
rains in most parts of the country, Nguruman community including businessmen,
farmers, pastoralist have suffered losses and their activities interrupted by
the resulting floods. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Many of the farmers and
agents involved in export of the Asian vegetables and other Agriculture
produced in the area say there is an increased cost of transportation from
Nguruman to the markets in Kiserian, Rongai and the airport in Nairobi. “Time
taken is much longer and sometimes we are not guaranteed that, the produce will
reach targeted market on time…” an exporter’s agent said. There is hardship in accessing
market and as the Asian vegetables need to be harvested while still young and
tender, most of them deteriorated in quality forcing farmers to feed them on
livestock .</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Sections of the road across
river channels have been cut by the floods. The village of Ndarkalali has been disconnected
from the only shopping centre i.e. Entasopia quite often making it hard for people
to go to the shopping centre to access food stuffs. People from the other
village of Oloibortoto at times could not cross River Oloibortoto to the main
shopping centre of Entasopia and health centre, forcing them to halt their business
no matter how argent until the floods subside. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz-8gMbguwfPBe3ZdxfsRo8ApGv46DtezqrRoFp5ivZUOTTjNo5jc5RagDyRe2hZrdXhCPYYElI8T-Opoap3aGxtdMDcMg4PFRYh13t5TcAgSTsxho1UoNo4tFBOvC7IcC0aHQvsA2-Jk/s1600/floods.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz-8gMbguwfPBe3ZdxfsRo8ApGv46DtezqrRoFp5ivZUOTTjNo5jc5RagDyRe2hZrdXhCPYYElI8T-Opoap3aGxtdMDcMg4PFRYh13t5TcAgSTsxho1UoNo4tFBOvC7IcC0aHQvsA2-Jk/s400/floods.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>A community member crossing a flooded river via a fallen tree.</b> <br /><b><i>photo by James Mathu</i></b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As farmers struggle to
get their produce to the markets, business men who make to the area are buying
the produce at a lower price citing the difficulties to access the area. Most produce
has gone to waste in the farms as farmers have given up harvesting and end up
succumbing to the difficulties of market access.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The new irrigation system
Installation process has been hit many times by the wild river floods. The pipes
have been damaged and destroyed at sections. The intake has also been damaged. When NCV
interviewed an engineer who sought anonymity, he said these are mare damages
that will be rectified when the rains recede. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">It has been a nightmare
travelling along Nguruman-Magadi-Kiserian route. This has been contributed by
the rising water levels at Lake Magadi covering the road that cut across the
Lake. Road at Kamkuru along Magadi-Kiserian route has been impassable due to flash
floods that has occurring often persisting for over a month and covering about
two kilometers. The only bus playing Nguruman-Kiserian is not reliable and
oftenly gets spoiled due to bad terrain. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHXNM2wgny7iZI21XZShs9B6GE7F4ScTX2pmWX69bGz3uvH68st9ywBFJWuqp29xLdQG_3QEI8396sazHIGBGUI9HjHPVdwM0YABMzDB5rs3kxztbIjr0iRE3aOyQVzEGlYCD2PA7zVMs/s1600/road.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHXNM2wgny7iZI21XZShs9B6GE7F4ScTX2pmWX69bGz3uvH68st9ywBFJWuqp29xLdQG_3QEI8396sazHIGBGUI9HjHPVdwM0YABMzDB5rs3kxztbIjr0iRE3aOyQVzEGlYCD2PA7zVMs/s400/road.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Section of the road damaged by ranging rains.</b> <br /><b><i>Photo by Samuel Nzioka</i></b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The floods have been a
problem for years every rainy season as in many other pats in the country but
no permanent solution has been put in place. The community is hoping that
relevant authorities will step up to action as the new Government comes to
power. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICEShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09514752732757366753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3278214545467424482.post-54014327126116411052013-04-06T00:46:00.000-07:002013-06-26T15:18:37.225-07:00Olkiramatian Women up in arms against local brew, spirits and Khat<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>By Samuel Nzioka</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">More than 200 Olkiramatian women ganged up and
with one voice and raised their cries against selling of all local brews,
spirits and Khat within Olkiramatian group ranch. Their anger heightened when
news broke out that, Secondary school students are the major customers at one
of the joint close to their institution. Intervention by the local
administration was futile since the mothers blamed them of laxity and
negligence of their duties.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The women
decided to take the bull by its horns and withstanding the scorching heat, they
matched to all local brew joints and ordered the owners to pour the entire
brew. They also matched to the shops selling spirits and brewing ingredients
and ordered the shop owners to pour them.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcbqoKWayROQ3uVYmLJGEDvH8YFR4JCBTuf5If8cYLYV6H08NqrcX1G8khL0DytIpVf-gGYYZ1mnAqu8Sen3Jaz7Crm7uvgKuz6QsqCCJFvzs7g4R569RvhaGQGNrsaKNPWzGOwvDVwD4/s1600/wine+&+spirits.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcbqoKWayROQ3uVYmLJGEDvH8YFR4JCBTuf5If8cYLYV6H08NqrcX1G8khL0DytIpVf-gGYYZ1mnAqu8Sen3Jaz7Crm7uvgKuz6QsqCCJFvzs7g4R569RvhaGQGNrsaKNPWzGOwvDVwD4/s400/wine+&+spirits.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Women leaders inspect wines and spirits shop for the illegal spirits.</b> <br />
<b><i>photo by Kelvin Koinet</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">“We can’t
sit back and watch our children get spoiled and forgetting their families… We
will do it ourselves since we are the ones affected most…” said one of the
women leaders who sought </span></span><span style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px;">anonymity</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A source
close to <i>Nguruman Community Voices (NCV)</i>
revealed that, women leaders had reported the matter to the local authority
severally but no action was taken to address the issue prompting them to take
action by their own. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">‘We are
tired of reporting the same matters to the administration with less effort… we
have decided to do it ourselves…’ said one of the women.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">The big percentage of people mostly affected are the youth aged
between 18 – 35 years which is the productive generation. It is said that,
majority of the group spend better part of the night chewing Khat and taking
the local brew thus forgetting their family responsibilities. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Majority of
community members welcomed the move by women citing that, it will be a wake-up
call to the local administration on matters affecting development in this
region. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">‘I support
the move by the women since they are the ones affected most and this will help
stirrup development and remind men of their family roles...’ said one male
community member.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgq_s7hhEuUdjunCsyM2w5w8sTNA0UjNzwsqWvLaO_q4xyusJ__7VtiLMmdlyAEK_cNizeE9MPLkZkOLYqItaMejCQ3nIAyEZ1TlhxKxWGhyKUmYZK4f5OATr-Bjo57IexjF1oTGkQ9Mc/s1600/local+brew.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgq_s7hhEuUdjunCsyM2w5w8sTNA0UjNzwsqWvLaO_q4xyusJ__7VtiLMmdlyAEK_cNizeE9MPLkZkOLYqItaMejCQ3nIAyEZ1TlhxKxWGhyKUmYZK4f5OATr-Bjo57IexjF1oTGkQ9Mc/s320/local+brew.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.800000190734863px;"><b>Women witnessing local brew ingredients being destroyed.</b> <i><b>photo by Kelvin Koinet</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">An interview
with one of the local administrators confirmed that, it is traditionally
acceptable for women to take action if something </span></span><span style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px;">isn't</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"> going right.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> ‘It is normal for women to take action on
whatever activity they feel is affecting the society and is allowed
traditionally within the Maasai community… when they begin the business, you can’t
stop them unless they achieve their goal… Men even run away from them since
they chant traditional songs and if you go against them, they can curse you to
doom…’ he said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">The local
administration and elders had to intervene to prevent a curse by the women
leaders when one of the shop keepers failed to produce an ingredient used in
the manufacture of local brew. At last, he was ordered to produce and destroy it by </span></span><span style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px;">himself</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRS2Ko2SC5wgyFi6woJUOtQw3TUbL3q5qCGfX0E1IwB1IohfhTBV677t7fBLxdE9zNrqBtMRqEEzQZ3JeIRNdQp-ilkk7QlTJOZDLyQRfdR-QaoGOigYFuj4zSG06lWk0seZATLdI3NNQ/s1600/elders.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRS2Ko2SC5wgyFi6woJUOtQw3TUbL3q5qCGfX0E1IwB1IohfhTBV677t7fBLxdE9zNrqBtMRqEEzQZ3JeIRNdQp-ilkk7QlTJOZDLyQRfdR-QaoGOigYFuj4zSG06lWk0seZATLdI3NNQ/s400/elders.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Local leaders and elders intervene at one of the shops to prevent curse by furious women leaders.</b> <br />
<b><i>Photo by Kelvin Koinet</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> ‘We had to intervene and prevent the curse… if
the women curse you, nobody will greet you or even buy from your shop… their
curse is irreversible making it different from the men’s…’ Said one elders<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">NCV</span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> team congratulates women for the action taken and
will be keen to follow up on any action taken to curb the vice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICEShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09514752732757366753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3278214545467424482.post-59967565120922752562013-03-27T06:10:00.001-07:002013-03-27T06:39:10.254-07:00Olkiramatian goup ranch women eager to understand land tenure<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>By Kelvin Koinet</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Over a hundred and fifty women of Olkiramatian location
gathered in St. Mary’s ACK church Entasopia on Thursday the 21<sup>st</sup> March
2013 to discuss land issues mainly impacts of land sub-division.<br />
<br />
Though it was a community forum where all group ranch
members were invited there were only ten men present among whom eight were
community leaders. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When Nguruman community voices(NCV) inquired why men were few, we were told women in the group ranch have recently been gathering for some communal activities such as demonstration against alcohol and other drugs, therefore message reached them easily. other reason given was, since the Organisation that organised the forum has been conduction women forums, many people thought it was the same. </div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivilYy3KprN2hUKGhCSyr04UbphjHbhzvrQhnEnxzGL-u3DOKVi2fm6nkU1w3gTU7m2qe83IgPk4oVBbYt0iDNiln4dp1jG74O88KXhvNbebIESLIoJwQc9Y-WxYyPHTaXQcf-ouEtf-g/s1600/1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivilYy3KprN2hUKGhCSyr04UbphjHbhzvrQhnEnxzGL-u3DOKVi2fm6nkU1w3gTU7m2qe83IgPk4oVBbYt0iDNiln4dp1jG74O88KXhvNbebIESLIoJwQc9Y-WxYyPHTaXQcf-ouEtf-g/s400/1.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.800000190734863px;"><b><i> Olkiramatian Group ranch </i></b><b><i>women </i></b><b><i>at the community forum. </i></b><b><i><br />(photo- Kelvin Koinet)</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The forum was organized by Centre for Indigenous Women and Children
(CIWOCH) under its Land Rights and Natural Resource Management program. Key objectives of the program as explained by its
project officer are; promoting gender main-streaming in community owned
lands-group ranches, improved engagement of community members in national land
reforms processes and sensitize communities on impacts of land sub-division.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The forum’s facilitator led the discussion through advantages
and disadvantages of communally owned lands and individually owned lands. Advantages
given to communal lands stood imminent which were; </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is not possible for an individual to sell without consent
of the other members, </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It makes it easy to sub- divide land into blocks of
different uses as it is in Olkiramatian group ranch where it is divided into
three areas; the grazing area, the conservation area and the agriculture area. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Members use the grazing area collectively while the agriculture area is sub-divided
into cultivation plots among members but still under one group ranch title
deed. The conservation area is an independent project run by a conservation committee
that is a sub-committee of the main group ranch management committee. The
revenue collected from the conservation project is supposed to be ploughed back
into the group ranch development projects. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It makes it possible to share a wide ranch of resources
within the ranch</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For a pastoral community, pasture use and management can be
planned for different seasons collectively.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Among disadvantages noted with the communal lands which were
the opposed to individual lands are; lack of an individual title deed which can
be used as guarantee to secure loans and members of group ranches remain subject
to the decisions of the general meetings while individual can be guarantee to
loans and one decide on his own without consulting anyone.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was evident that many have already decided communal land
is the best when time to discuss disadvantages with individual lands came.
Among issues discussed were; </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sell of land, influx of population and corrosion of
culture. Looking at some examples of
sub-divided lands like Kitengela, Isinya and Illodoarriak it was clear that the
pastoral community feels like they cannot survive if the land is sub-divided.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The facilitator also gave examples of areas that were once
communally owned, later sub-divided but in the long run, they came to a
conclusion that their livelihood can only be sustained when they enjoined their
individual lands and manage it together, Case example of Maasai Mara.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mama Sointa, one of the women’s opinion leaders likened land
sub-division in pastoral lands with ‘if we had water in one container then we
decided each one to hold his/her in the hands. Within no time, all the water will have slipped
through between the fingers. So my advice is, let’s use our water in the
container,’ she concluded.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0de8KdkzM6-rXR94_a9IedG5auDAJv_h9KO1XA1oMuCbTy4rjuQGi7PIfgUBOPzIDxGBMXYbacSQwA0XAdBE02YhVxQrRZKKmXqHAeWclEq9no0U19oMRBL3I4WxEqimqqT7J2WBuy-0/s1600/2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0de8KdkzM6-rXR94_a9IedG5auDAJv_h9KO1XA1oMuCbTy4rjuQGi7PIfgUBOPzIDxGBMXYbacSQwA0XAdBE02YhVxQrRZKKmXqHAeWclEq9no0U19oMRBL3I4WxEqimqqT7J2WBuy-0/s400/2.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><div style="font-size: 12.800000190734863px;">
<b><i>one of the women's leader making announcement </i></b><b><i>after the forum. They will be</i></b></div>
<b><i> demonstrating following Monday against local brew, spirit alcohols, miraa and bhang</i></b><b style="font-size: 12.800000190734863px;"><i>. </i></b><br />
<div style="font-size: 12.800000190734863px;">
<b><i>photo-Kelvin Koinet</i></b></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Other concerns aired by Mama Koleti, was women are not included
in the group ranch membership arguing that only few of the members are women.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Answering the question, Kipaseyia Orumoi the secretary to
the group ranch committee said, it is possible to add the women into the register
but protocol is specified. He said that could only be agreed upon in a group
ranch member’s general meeting. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
People in the forum said the forum was indeed successful
whereby the community members’ knowledge on impacts of land sub-division was
increased. The men present were also in a position to understand the rights of
women in regard to property ownership as per the new constitution and they
agreed that these will be tabled in the group ranch general meeting. The issue
of group ranch constitution formulation was also raised where CIWOCH promised to
assist in the same as a means to ensure sustainability.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICEShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09514752732757366753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3278214545467424482.post-7065884314939174722013-03-22T07:11:00.000-07:002013-03-26T05:27:18.738-07:00Maarifa Centre empowering Nguruman communities with Information<b>By Francis Maina</b><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Information is vital in that it creates knowledge
that is fundamental in decision making. Sound judgements are always based on
information. Though important it must be from a reliable source, free from
bias, up-to date, delivered at the right time (when it’s needed) and specific
to the problem it’s going to solve or in line with the objectives set.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">ALIN, abbreviation for Arid Lands Information
Network, is<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">an International NGO
whose mission is to improve the livelihoods of arid lands communities in East
Africa through delivery of practical information using modern technologies</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">. It mainly ensures
that information is flowing or being exchanged among the communities through
Maarifa(Knowledge) centers that have been put in place . They also ensure that
the community is updated on matters concerning their livelihoods and those
pertaining to their development.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRoBFvfP5n2578yt6HAwwJxeVXStZriymqe-FLE3vpZgz04HkAOgT0y7IDrOgEV_plPXXEzBuJMMRg86VNKi04Imm5bvVTbV9zAA0sWiAEpmqF1Zq2Ku085bpRwX4H3QkZD9eY_D9eUNM/s1600/DSC06382+comp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRoBFvfP5n2578yt6HAwwJxeVXStZriymqe-FLE3vpZgz04HkAOgT0y7IDrOgEV_plPXXEzBuJMMRg86VNKi04Imm5bvVTbV9zAA0sWiAEpmqF1Zq2Ku085bpRwX4H3QkZD9eY_D9eUNM/s400/DSC06382+comp.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Containerized Maarifa Center located at the M.O.A grounds in Magadi Division</div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A good example of where this type of information is
offered is at Nguruman Maarifa centre, one of the two centers in Kajiado
County,. It has a well stocked library with books, journals, periodicals and magazines
issuing information on topics that are of concern to this county…this includes
information on climate change, sustainable agriculture, marketing information
and so forth. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Information on the advantages of forming farmer groups is always available, efficiency in
production…achieving maximum production by using least/minimum inputs,
marketing information…how the market is performing based on individual
products, good agriculture practices…and so on.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbqBXM6iDvja4s73VVmtzbg5hryGa6wmFFF-PQBRubEDnTN_SVRQNYm0yVwZXWVSmx3uvVFwF76wMVsdOh7Y2XOmJ12d5wsC_QQ6VxA1el2OmeZgi8gPK-KTypNSbmDNQR0ltpuNkoPIE/s1600/DSC07530comp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbqBXM6iDvja4s73VVmtzbg5hryGa6wmFFF-PQBRubEDnTN_SVRQNYm0yVwZXWVSmx3uvVFwF76wMVsdOh7Y2XOmJ12d5wsC_QQ6VxA1el2OmeZgi8gPK-KTypNSbmDNQR0ltpuNkoPIE/s400/DSC07530comp.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Children looking at pamphlets during an outreach visit at Olkiramatian Market</div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Luckily enough they have been boosted by the
availability of internet offered in a separate fabricated container hence
making it is easier to update information.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">It’s get much better by the availability of
consultants. We have ICT trainers to assist and enhance computer skills and communication skills. The centre is
strategically located within the
ministry of agriculture offices hence making it easy to collaborate and refer when
technical issues relating to agriculture are brought forth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> th Community
in this area can therefore improve their livelihoods by incorporating the
knowledge obtained in the centre to indigenous
knowledge and sharing it. Most of the
residents here are farmers with some investors practicing the same….keeping
limited livestock numbers and practicing crop production. They have been
improving ever since this centre was established and are still growing, moving
forward towards greater heights of life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Nguruman has been listed among the most remote areas
in the world. It is now a place that’s getting light to what the outside world
is doing or performing. Very soon it will lighten up and agriculture investors,
sportsmen in hiking, or adventurers will increase interest in this area and
developments especially those on transport and connectivity will be enhanced.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICEShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09514752732757366753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3278214545467424482.post-33696318126412177162013-03-15T02:18:00.001-07:002013-03-15T02:25:44.892-07:00Farmers Affected by changing weather patterns<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">By Joshua
Kisemei<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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Winds stronger than never felt before, sun burning than
never before and unexpected rains have become part of the strange weather
conditions that residents of Nguruman have had to bear from January to date.</div>
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‘We have never experienced these temperatures before,
sometimes I think they rise up to 43 degrees or even more’ Estimated Mr. Mathu
the environment officer at the ministry of Agriculture, Magadi Division.</div>
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The heat has made it impossible for people to work in the
farms into the mid mornings. This has forced farmers to wake up earlier than
usual to avoid working in the sun. ‘This time round, the sun is punishing the people not even
the vegetation’ says a Herder, ‘if you graze your cattle in the field until
evening, you return home with a very bad headache'.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ZxMRAxz24W5a7cRDYYFeIJRl1e9OWoWj8Ov55lV_G2vkGYqH4MVf6FhWz0N1a8PT4amN8NgufVr5aSn9BdZEKSgRdxgVKfB2OwvGwvzfbw9slbt_wJLX44Nn8NLOE1MI5PlD2lTzIyU/s1600/weather.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ZxMRAxz24W5a7cRDYYFeIJRl1e9OWoWj8Ov55lV_G2vkGYqH4MVf6FhWz0N1a8PT4amN8NgufVr5aSn9BdZEKSgRdxgVKfB2OwvGwvzfbw9slbt_wJLX44Nn8NLOE1MI5PlD2lTzIyU/s400/weather.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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herders walking goats and sheep through the dry Olkiramatian Plains</div>
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With the rising temperatures other effect like the reducing
levels of water in both the Oloibortoto and Entasopia rivers make it impossible
for farmers living further from Nguruman escarpments to cultivate their land.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM4wKkmME7b0_mOaAtMc6pZcZvy697GZHW8D2zCIph-u7Zso7nNH6Maag2Ywohc1Um62h-rA_RUF4eXH7avUxGj5tsTea3gtpn9sJbtrRxICsA6UhOeM3r61hSifNz5JqmrYhz-KhuGuw/s1600/farmer.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM4wKkmME7b0_mOaAtMc6pZcZvy697GZHW8D2zCIph-u7Zso7nNH6Maag2Ywohc1Um62h-rA_RUF4eXH7avUxGj5tsTea3gtpn9sJbtrRxICsA6UhOeM3r61hSifNz5JqmrYhz-KhuGuw/s400/farmer.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Farmer irrigating his crops</div>
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‘Some of us have had to rent farms that are closer to the
water source in order to sustain ourselves since agriculture is our only
livelihood.’ said a farmer. ‘Even in the farms that are closer to the
escarpment, the water is not adequate for all the farmers and disputes are
a common occurrence’.</div>
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Parts of lake Magadi that always maintained some water even
in the dry season have dried up this time round. </div>
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Blowing away iron sheet and grass roofing and breaking down
trees, the winds that have become a common phenomenon every evening have caused
damage to houses and farms in various parts of Nguruman.‘The wind blows sand into your mouth and eyes making it a
hustle to walk or even stand outside in the evenings’ Says Mr. Kimani, a
Nguruman resident.</div>
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In the past five days, unpredictable rains accompanied by
thunder and lightning have been experienced in the area raising worries from
the residents that the long rains could be coming sooner than expected finding
them unprepared to utilize the wet season. The long rains have over the years presented an opportunity
for the residents to cultivate larger tracks of land that could not be
sustained by rain fed agriculture. </div>
NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICEShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09514752732757366753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3278214545467424482.post-18680467541540754832013-03-12T01:35:00.001-07:002013-03-12T01:35:45.260-07:00Nguruman farmers engage in Contract farming at last<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">By Samuel Nzioka<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Nguruman area has for a long time been known for its high production
due to availability of water for irrigation throughout the year. Farmers have
been cultivating their crops and selling them without proper channels in place
and have sometimes fallen into wrong hands thus suffering losses. This trend didn’t
take long before the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) and Horticultural
Development Authority (HCDA) took action and made it a requirement for every
agent to sign a contract with farmers who will be supplying them with farm
produce.<span style="background: white; color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The agreement stipulates the produce in terms of type,
quantity and quality for a specific period of time and price.</span> To
facilitate this process, farmers formed marketing groups under which they signed
contracts with the agents on behalf of the exporters. </span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgySjMDDNor-4jYbVh47MMjAujx_5hau7WK-nD7H7I8P1adUOqhMzAtBjlm6gX92FV3u5P2c_9uD1ol-iesqzdQdRi-wVOf2xo9_skmWJpvdtsPkjJ_Pf_M02iwTCWqp5gpVne_3e6m4uU/s1600/100620111388.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgySjMDDNor-4jYbVh47MMjAujx_5hau7WK-nD7H7I8P1adUOqhMzAtBjlm6gX92FV3u5P2c_9uD1ol-iesqzdQdRi-wVOf2xo9_skmWJpvdtsPkjJ_Pf_M02iwTCWqp5gpVne_3e6m4uU/s400/100620111388.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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<b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Asian vegetable at a collection point in Nguruman</span></i></b></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This came at a time when farmers were facing high production
costs due to high prices for farm inputs. It was a sign of relief to farmers as
strict measures were to be taken to any party breaching the contract terms and
conditions. This is an important measure to cushion the farmer from buyers who
offers low prices since a standard price for each farm produce was set and any breach
will attract a fine or even ban from buying. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Farmers were taken through gross margin analysis to help
them figure out how much they spend to produce a carton or kilogram of
horticultural crops they have in season. Every buyer or agent is required to
have registered with MOA and HCDA before he can be allowed to buy any farm produce
under existing conditions. They should also have a list of farmers they <span style="background: white; color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">are buying from,
and how much each farmer is producing together with a signed agreement between
the agent and the farmers group. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Farmers were assured that HCDA is mandated to protect them
and to ensure fairness they should ensure that they stick to the agreement.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICEShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09514752732757366753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3278214545467424482.post-14928037838990248382013-02-26T04:54:00.000-08:002013-03-12T01:46:12.393-07:00ENTASOPIA MINI DEBATES<b>By Joshua Kisemei</b><br />
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Voters in Entasopia town gathered at the only two available
video showrooms to witness the proceedings of the second presidential debate. </div>
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Entasopia town is located around 140 kilometers south west
of Nairobi deep inside Kajiado County. Lack of electricity in this area forces
voters to pay video show operators in order to watch news and any other main
events in the country.</div>
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This Monday however, the video shows that are normally
filled with movie fans was crowded with voters who were keen to follow and
comment on the responses of the aspirants they support and the other
contestants.</div>
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The video room was full of life with people starting mini
debates that extended into the night long after the official debate has ended.
The administration police had to make rounds in the town instructing small and
large debate groups to break up and go to sleep late in the night.</div>
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The mini debates mostly featured exchanges between
supporters of Jubilee alliance and CORD alliance surrounding the topics covered
in the debate with each side arguing that their contestant has won the debate
and quoting instances that the other contestant refused or was unable to answer
questions.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAtEkyzOEnff489y3Ddf-Qlf7SpbyM-FV8H8OHOkDZQxeynArstxvSwhtvVCDdLO1jitYeEpUjfi5ooIvBDrj_my-CLHl7Svx_Xnkef7I3EcISeSGaTsVFJZoEJqJRZx1tPOQnliZA5ww/s1600/debate1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAtEkyzOEnff489y3Ddf-Qlf7SpbyM-FV8H8OHOkDZQxeynArstxvSwhtvVCDdLO1jitYeEpUjfi5ooIvBDrj_my-CLHl7Svx_Xnkef7I3EcISeSGaTsVFJZoEJqJRZx1tPOQnliZA5ww/s320/debate1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Presidential candidates at the first debate. Photo: Nairobi Wire</div>
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It was clear that voters saw Peter Kenneth as the most
suitable for the presidency. However they still maintained their hard lined
positions with the common reason being that Kenneth should contest in the next
general elections.</div>
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The video rooms were filled with laughter every time Mohammed
Abdul Dida was called to answer or ask a
question. There tremendous roars sparked by the question ‘do you expect a thief
to tell you he has stolen?’</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDwTtYAoZ7Cc5fy6osQWr6xmKa8uiMOeI7nBZhr07glE8q58x8Xe5sNqMRx7jW3smRTXZn5i8OVhnkBpUm0S07AiGWpM-2XwL0OXpTwkexaHOiujBlMpDaD_nv5biXK9D_6J5GLxO0b0k/s1600/mwalimu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDwTtYAoZ7Cc5fy6osQWr6xmKa8uiMOeI7nBZhr07glE8q58x8Xe5sNqMRx7jW3smRTXZn5i8OVhnkBpUm0S07AiGWpM-2XwL0OXpTwkexaHOiujBlMpDaD_nv5biXK9D_6J5GLxO0b0k/s400/mwalimu.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Mwalimu Mohammed Dida. Photo: Daily Post</div>
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Some of the comments that were exchanged included:<br />
‘There is no guarantee that the next president will not
manipulate the land commission if we are having this discussion now’</div>
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‘The ministry of lands and the ministry of special programs
all had hidden agendas in the deal to purchase land’</div>
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‘9 billion error’</div>
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NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICEShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09514752732757366753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3278214545467424482.post-45590084901633007242013-02-23T01:12:00.000-08:002013-03-12T01:40:45.738-07:00KAJIADO COUNTY POLITICS ONLINE<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>By Joshua Kisemei</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Kajiado county politics has heated on
internet social sites like facebook. Facebook users from the county have
created pages for contestants in the main political positions like governor,
senator and MP.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">One of the most notable group online is the
2012 kajiado county politics which has transformed within the last three months
into a debate centre for the major political developments both in the county
and nationally<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">The recent court order nullifying the degree
presented by the county’s gubernatorial candidate Mr. Kores is one of the
heated topics currently with members suggesting where to vote if IEBC decides
to remove their candidate from the race. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilyB_2GvrQDn7NTndx1zyP0S_oB3I0MofzdMuRxuDZj0DNpWhgDpqJYZZOAABHUwhjSqktF5Y1sgENR_ZniVO4B9JjOjnyK3BXf4e9WxFSbPvLEqDcb6Q6byxd4EJgaqbNic_zxes7pEo/s1600/Kores.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilyB_2GvrQDn7NTndx1zyP0S_oB3I0MofzdMuRxuDZj0DNpWhgDpqJYZZOAABHUwhjSqktF5Y1sgENR_ZniVO4B9JjOjnyK3BXf4e9WxFSbPvLEqDcb6Q6byxd4EJgaqbNic_zxes7pEo/s320/Kores.jpg" width="295" /></a></div>
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Ole Kores, the Gubernatorial candidate for Kajiado County.</div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Most of the members are from the dominant
tribe in the county, the Maasai, and it’s common practice to see members write
their comments and updates in the local language. Some comments in the page are
development oriented while some are downright inflammatory. Here are a sample
of the comments:</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"> ‘synovate
Kajiado<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><br />
<span style="background: white;">GOVERNOR:parantai 5% nkedianye 60% livondo 25%
obadiah 10%</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">WOMEN REP:mary senator 45% emily kiparki 48%
others 7%</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">SENATE:mositet 46% nkeri 51% kinyanjui 7%<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span><br />
<span style="background: white;">KAJIADO CENTRAL MP:memusi 25% nkaissery 65%
nkabashi 5% tutui 5%</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">.....dont be mad comment with love’</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Even with all the politics in the page, this
is the winner comment; surprisingly it has the least comments: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;">‘<span style="background: white;">As Kenyans continue chest-thumping and
foot-stamping in praise of their political leaders who are seeking office to
get wealthier, the real issues that matter to us are left unchecked. It is such
ignorance that the leaders seeking office are so desperately hoping to win and
ride on.</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">-Fuel Prices were hiked 7 days ago.</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">-Kenya Power has sent an application to Energy
Regulatory Commission to raise our power bills.</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">-People in Migori have left their homes due to
increased cattle rustling.</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">-In Liboi today, gunmen opened fire killing 7
people in a Mosque. But no, that is not our priority.</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">Once the elections are done, the tribesmen that
we have christened "mtu wetu" will laugh all the way to the bank
while we try to "survive" in the next 5 years wondering when the rain
started pounding. We will whine about fuel prices, impunity be the executive,
power bills, insecurity and much more yet we let our ignorance divide us and
misplace our priorities. I will not ask you who to vote for. In fact, if your
ignorance makes you sleep, then be it. Like Abraham Lincoln once said;
“Elections belong to the people. It's their decision. If they decide to turn
their back on the fire and burn their behinds, then they will just have to sit
on their blisters.”’</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICEShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09514752732757366753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3278214545467424482.post-78755531635821263362012-11-20T06:33:00.000-08:002012-11-21T01:23:35.023-08:00Stakeholders and residents within Nguruman quest for 3G network<b>By Samuel Nzioka</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Nguruman residents and part of the larger olkiramatian location spend their weekend without mobile network connection as the only safaricom network mask was not functional. This has been a recurring occurrence and has affected communication and business transactions with M-pesa agents and their customers counting losses since some people depended on mobile banking to buy fresh produce for sale in other parts of the county and in major towns.<br />
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"Majority of businesses involving mobile banking takes place over the weekend and this has affected our business... All M-pesa services are down and we can not buy farm produce for the mondays kiserian market" said one tomato crop vendor.<br />
<br />
Another community member who was expecting a visitor cursed the inconvenience caused since he couldn't communicate at all.<br />
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"The network is very weak and makes us spend a lot of time on internet while sending attachments on e-mail or even when blogging. It takes a lot of time to upload a compressed picture.... it will be great if we get 3G network...." said David Meitamei, a Maarifa centre user.<br />
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This has been a recurring occurrence and despite being reported to the service provider severally no attempts has been seen in bid to address the issue.<br />
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Sometimes last one week stakeholders working around Nguruman held a discussion at Nguruman Maarifa centre, a meeting that sought way forward regarding recurring network issues at Olkiramatian location. Chaired by Joel Njonjo, a Researcher at African conservation centre (ACC), an agreement was arrived at to follow up the issue with safaricom staff who had visited the area and confirmed their full support on the issue.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ4PhXKeBtp9qVqLwF5TZL4P-CDCCIbehNzZir9tgO_EhAfPtTFX_MqIv_5myORDrJTm0-QRnNnd4xaEfEaCbU8jG9vGMYFiRUDj1L3tT_7C6MpZ3z82hIhnQQ79f4D7l-DO_bwyjrNsc/s1600/Mask.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ4PhXKeBtp9qVqLwF5TZL4P-CDCCIbehNzZir9tgO_EhAfPtTFX_MqIv_5myORDrJTm0-QRnNnd4xaEfEaCbU8jG9vGMYFiRUDj1L3tT_7C6MpZ3z82hIhnQQ79f4D7l-DO_bwyjrNsc/s640/Mask.JPG" width="566" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: small;">Safaricom network mask at Ngomongo with technicians aboard. Photo by Samuel Nzioka</span></b></i></td></tr>
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NCV team visited the site on Monday to probe and to confirm weather really there is any on going advancements to address the issue. Interestingly, there were three technicians at the top of the mask. Efforts to reach them for comments were futile as they were very busy carrying stuff up and down the mask.<br />
Some of the issues raised by the stakeholders included delays in response to emergencies due to poor network, delayed transactions, slow internet connection thus delayed response to official matters and other areas completely not having coverage.<br />
<br />
It is presumed that, the situation may improve as there is a commendable improvement within the last 24 hours.<br />
<br />NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICEShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09514752732757366753noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3278214545467424482.post-44434955836264444022012-11-06T01:13:00.000-08:002012-11-06T01:21:18.300-08:00Mango vendors ambush Nguruman<b>By Samuel Nzioka</b><br />
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Mango vendors from other parts of the country have rocked Nguruman area to buy Mangoes which is one of the fruit crops which thrive well in the area. The activity which begun about two weeks ago is picking momentum and seeing at-least three lorries drive away with the commodity every day. Nguruman is likely to be the only place within the country producing the commodity at this time of the year according to a report by one of the buyers.<br />
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"I have been in the business for the last ten years and you cannot find the commodity in any other part of the country at this time of the year..." said one of the buyers who sought anonymity.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsuRn2978_sbKYeAG0A3IJpb7xEiK6mRc3pQCKcwlLBstYEM_bKU6pzpTGggeWGnlwJQmcRVE2d-eeqzA8WEuIBIbBNYv1xaPhN8zPjLw0WQOobXMV-hqaajKw8Q-uhO6ov82D6ZFT5dA/s1600/Mangoes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsuRn2978_sbKYeAG0A3IJpb7xEiK6mRc3pQCKcwlLBstYEM_bKU6pzpTGggeWGnlwJQmcRVE2d-eeqzA8WEuIBIbBNYv1xaPhN8zPjLw0WQOobXMV-hqaajKw8Q-uhO6ov82D6ZFT5dA/s400/Mangoes.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Mango vendors parking mangoes in cartons with a lorry on stand-by. Photo by James Mathu</i></b></td></tr>
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The prices have also dropped from Ksh 18 to 10 per piece for export quality and from Ksh 12 to 6 for the local market depending on size (Apple Mango). A crate had also dropped from Kshs 600 to 300 for the other local varieties. Due to ongoing rains the vendors fear for their business profits as a result of poor transport systems that has led to increase in the cost of transport. Speaking to one of the vendors, it was clear that Mangoes from Nguruman are rated 'Export quality' and most of them find their way to overseas markets.<br />
<br />
Nguruman area for a long time has been the bread basket for fresh commodities supplying towns within the outskirts of Nairobi like Kiserian, Rongai, Ngong and also main market in Nairobi. The poor state of the road has been the talk of the day with political aspirants promising to address the issue but after wooing the voters, nothing is addressed.<br />
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On a meting with the farmers, the Divisional Agricultural Extension Officer (DAEO) Mr Bainito advised that, before selling any farm produce to a buyer, the farmer has to do gross margin for his production including all costs so as to settle at the minimum selling price for the produce. This came amidst call by the Ministry of Agriculture to have all brokers registered with HCDA for them to buy any product from the farmers.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKPmu9NH6OtyLM1mhvhLmR2Fw7hfwDvD1_06qz10y4jgG7O5EpISRMernE1j4ZYIAKclUbfYWOa-QQGM6VLZrkvw8AiJmpij6b0OGLU9MGIR9vM3djsKisua86mnt0KP6pYQ59FlxsybY/s1600/meeting.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKPmu9NH6OtyLM1mhvhLmR2Fw7hfwDvD1_06qz10y4jgG7O5EpISRMernE1j4ZYIAKclUbfYWOa-QQGM6VLZrkvw8AiJmpij6b0OGLU9MGIR9vM3djsKisua86mnt0KP6pYQ59FlxsybY/s400/meeting.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Farmers being taken through gross Margin analysis exercise at MOA grounds. Photo by Samuel Nzioka.</i></b></td></tr>
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"There has been a long time tred by brokers to exploit the farmers... this will not be the case when they register with HCDA... we will be able to monitor the prices so as to save the farmers". said the officer in charge on an interview with NCV crew. <br />
<br />
The officer also urged farmers to cooperate with his ministry to solve the market curtails which has seen many farmers suffer losses due to poor prices and lack of marketing strategies.NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICEShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09514752732757366753noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3278214545467424482.post-74454614625195614302012-10-31T03:50:00.000-07:002012-10-31T04:44:35.497-07:00A lady with her two daughters suspected to have been poisoned<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">By Kelvin Koinet.</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A lady and her two young daughters were admitted at Entasopia health centre
for three days since Friday 26<sup>th</sup> 10 2012 to Monday 29<sup>th</sup>
10 2012 last week for stomach complication. It was alleged that they were
mistakably poisoned by a woman who wanted to kill her husband, saying he was
cheating on her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The lady reported that the couple from Ilkisongo community in Tanzania
has not been in terms for a long time. They had a big quarrel a day before the
incident. The woman was heard by neighbors talking at the top of her voice about
her ‘unfaithful’ husband. As reported, the woman promised to poison the husband
and kill the woman he is moving out with by cutting her with a panga. She said
in her angry talk she will then disappear from the place after the killing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">On Thursday, the lady had gone to herd with her two daughters in Mr. Tolus, their
neighbors’ garden where the couple has rented a farm to cultivate. They have
been herding there for quite a while since the beginning of the dry season. As
reported by Mrs. shung’eya, they were good friends with the Ilkisonko woman and
she always give them tea when they go there to herd and she gave them milk
whenever they come to ask for. ‘That day we were not given tea’ she said. After
asking for the tea that was in a kettle next to the fire place for several
times and the woman resisted to give out saying it belongs to the husband, Mrs.
Shung’eya offered to give milk to be used to cook some other tea after they
drink the first. At last the three took the tea. Another woman passed by and
shared the tea. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNEH68tJUrq8LR0anm1tGfIXJPDM2dqOp2672H7NQ0Fe1amjKSf51qPlh-3id8-8CucDutEJuMeMhkHduJPohXOZ1Y2XOYf1gJ9KPpQqPnz3zHT4XnqBD999V0kWxBHN8s21onUAjRaNY/s1600/DSC09320.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNEH68tJUrq8LR0anm1tGfIXJPDM2dqOp2672H7NQ0Fe1amjKSf51qPlh-3id8-8CucDutEJuMeMhkHduJPohXOZ1Y2XOYf1gJ9KPpQqPnz3zHT4XnqBD999V0kWxBHN8s21onUAjRaNY/s320/DSC09320.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two young girls at the Entasopia health centre wards after being admitted.<br />
They were surffering from stomach complications.<br />
photo by Kelvin Koinet.</td></tr>
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Later when they
went home after herding, they started feeling ill. That night, they suffered stomach pain and diarrhea. The three were rushed in a motor bike to Entasopia
health centre the following morning where they were admitted.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 18px;">Lap technicians Joseph Kasio and Mr.Macharia said there has been reported cases of stomach problems but most have bacterial infections. when asked about the family and the other woman, they said nothing have been seen through the microscope available at the centre. They added that machines available at the centre can not detect chemical infections. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The other
woman who shared the tea is said to have suffered stomach pain and diarrhea but
has not reported to hospital. Mrs. Shung’eya and many people from the
neighborhood beliefs the woman had poisoned the tea for her husband but hit the
untargeted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The suspect
was also found fainted near her homestead the same morning when the three were
rushed to the health centre. She vomited and diarrhea and suspected to have
tried to commit suicide. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">In another
story, early Tuesday morning the 23th Oct 2012, a nother lady was
caught near her homestead in a neighboring village of Ngomongo attempting to commit
suicide. The lady was attempting to take some lethal pesticides. This followed a
quarrel with the husband the previous eve for coming home late. The lady accused
him of having affairs with another woman. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICEShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09514752732757366753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3278214545467424482.post-75961046138262410072012-10-27T03:17:00.001-07:002012-10-27T03:17:45.562-07:00Which is the way about selling of our horticulture? <div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">By Kelvin Koinet</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Horticultural
crops development authority (HCDA) represented by Kajiado County HCDA station
manager Mr. Kitili has been on the ground at Nguruman since the beginning of
this month amid capping farmer’s exploitation by their agricultural produce buyers
mostly agents who link farmers and exporters.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A statement
from a farmer, Mr. Kahuria Ndung’o said ‘we don’t know which way to go about
selling our horticulture produce. Earlier, we had groups but they did not help.
Now if the buyers’ agents register with (HCDA) office, does it solve the farmer’s
problem or will it leaves us in the same darkness!’ <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">When the
Asian vegetables cultivation began in 1992, the business was good. Farmers signed
contracts with the exporters and they had accounts with the exporters and
payments were made monthly. Later when production was in access, other buyers
intruded and started buying in cash. Its then that prices dropped and since
then most farmers have vacated the business after realizing they have been
running it to loss. Other horticultural produce like mangoes, bananas,
tomatoes, watermelon, onion and many other have ever been bought without
contracts and have suffer low prices. Mr. Kiruri explained to Nguruman
community voices that it is hard to control agricultural business since the
market is free at the consumer side. Consumers buy goods where they wish and at
the price they can afford at the time and when we become hard on buyers, we
might loss the little that we are getting. He further explained that
Horticultural produce are perishable so farmers have to sell immediately at the
available prices. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A meeting
was held on thursday the 25<sup>th</sup> October 2012 at the Agricultural grounds
between HCDA, ministry of Agriculture (MOA) and Nguruman farmers. The aim was
to discuss and organize farmer’s best way to sell their horticultural produce
and ask them to bear with the current restriction put against the agents buying
from the area until they register with HCDA and adhere with the laws therein.
The agents will be identified with a budge and a certificate of registration.
They will be required to have a list of farmers from whom they are buying produce
and the produce each farmer is producing together with a signed agreement
between the agent and the farmers group. The agreement will stipulate the agreed
produce in terms of type, quantity and quality for a specific period of time
and price.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMH71ifYjCv20EGvTbTYcb5zh_RaS3TnZSKSYT0hVCQsDregE7BGGCYACUr5NDVhPLBSc9btTEsRqRpzCApbM76_e0n7-8z3u2Rollnk_KavVngli0RhYU5AyJBcPnkYPPfhzAQ9aHtc4/s1600/kitili.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMH71ifYjCv20EGvTbTYcb5zh_RaS3TnZSKSYT0hVCQsDregE7BGGCYACUr5NDVhPLBSc9btTEsRqRpzCApbM76_e0n7-8z3u2Rollnk_KavVngli0RhYU5AyJBcPnkYPPfhzAQ9aHtc4/s320/kitili.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>The meeting at Nguruman Agricultural grounds.<br />photo by Kelvin Koinet</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Mr. Mabeer
Parmuar argued that ‘agents to register with HCDA and farmers will decide on
their own where, to whom and how to sell their produce’.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Argument was there has been such plan in the
past but nothing has been attained. Another farmer, Mr. Oleshakai Ong’eetiai
urged the ministry of agriculture and HCDA ‘to have a strong stand to defend
farmers since they are in position and are authorized by the government to do
so’.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Mr. Kitili
from HCDA urged the farmer to join hands with HCDA to make sure that they attain
best horticultural produce prices. He said the best procedure will be farmers
to form groups so as to organize themselves and sign contracts with the buyers
at the agricultural office so as to get appropriate guidance. This will make
sure prices are constants and that they are assured of selling the produce.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Farmers concern
was whether HCDA will be able to control the agents from exploiting them
knowing that they do not have constant produce throughout the year. On the same
meeting, TATA chemicals Magadi, a company that runs the soda mining at Lake
Magadi reported that farmers are now diverting the water that goes to the
companies’ intake and use it for irrigation. This is certainly due to water
shortage at the time, a clear indication that farmers will not be able to
produce consistently. As farmers are supposed to form groups and elect
management committees, there was fear that corruption may foul the process and
the consistent of the plan. Exporters are also suspected to corrupt the deal. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">An agreement
was reached at forming farmers groups and agreements will be signed between
agents and farmers. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">An elder
asked Mr.Kitili to maintain his stand to make sure that the plan is attained
saying there have been such leaders with strong ambitions but they were brought
down by corruption. ‘Now they just sit in offices and grow big bellies while
the people they are supposed to serve are suffering’ he added. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICEShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09514752732757366753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3278214545467424482.post-71352269507201017722012-10-11T06:44:00.003-07:002012-10-18T08:44:01.246-07:00Community members raise concerns over job opportunities<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>By Joshua Kisemei</b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yellow House Company has decided to reshuffle its workforce
in order to increase participation of group ranch members in the implementation
of the Small Scale Horticultural Project that intends to rehabilitate the
irrigation system in Nguruman.This is after the community raised an alarm over job opportunities for their members.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In a meeting held on the 10<sup>th</sup> of October 2012,
community members complained that most of the people working in the project’s
casual section have been outsourced by plumbers and sub-contractors from other
areas.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Sometimes we give the plumbers a list of people to employ
but they still bring in more people from outside the group ranch" said a member
of Nguruman Irrigation Water Users Association’s (IWUA)committee.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha3a9LDXRFPHGWuVYUwShqAde2p93UGBHaTjHJ1LCJ7TM_aJ02GNfyx1EVcTlVkSWmaEk7yfrU4pV-PZ6_YrJapcvf-op9igmrSaxndXUiZFi9CokXT2OS1zIesy9QwTNR6mDuEuvANE8/s1600/kkk144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha3a9LDXRFPHGWuVYUwShqAde2p93UGBHaTjHJ1LCJ7TM_aJ02GNfyx1EVcTlVkSWmaEk7yfrU4pV-PZ6_YrJapcvf-op9igmrSaxndXUiZFi9CokXT2OS1zIesy9QwTNR6mDuEuvANE8/s400/kkk144.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Masons working on a weir protecting the irrigation water intake. <br />(Photo: Kelvin Koinet)</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The committee which is charged with the responsibility of
overseeing implementation of the project on behalf of the farmers decided to
review the list of workers and give priority to members of the group ranch.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The IWUA chairman assured employees who are members of the
group ranch that their jobs were secure. "Members of Olkiramatian group ranch
don’t have a problem, your jobs are secure. However if you have indiscipline
cases like incitement and theft you will be penalized." The committee also developed a list of 24 members who will
be trained as plumbers. Among the 24, the best 12 will be selected to take over
repair and maintenance when the project is handed to the Nguruman IWUA
committee.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Other issues discussed in the meeting included theft of
company tools which has grown rampant. That same morning a group of employees
were caught stealing equipments from the site among them, spades and other
tools.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"I saw them carrying bags and asked to inspect them. When
they finally agreed to spill out the contents, I was surprised," said Joseph,
one of the site guards.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The workers brought the issue of late payment of their wages
to the meeting. It was agreed that instead of paying fortnightly the company
should give wages monthly. This came after a recent controversy sparked by late
and incomplete payments which led to a workers strike that prompted the company
to pay all workers from 8<sup>th-</sup>10<sup>th</sup> October.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Some of us have missing days. I have five days that I
registered and I have not been paid for," said one employee.</div>
</div>
NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICEShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09514752732757366753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3278214545467424482.post-89183541287310721292012-10-02T07:25:00.002-07:002012-10-04T04:14:04.342-07:00Irrigation system set to turn tables in Nguruman<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">By Kelvin Koinet<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The
community living within Nguruman irrigation scheme is set to change their
locally developed farming and irrigation system after the laying of a new
irrigation scheme in the area. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The scheme
is distinctive in the area with fertile soils, plenty supply of water and rich
in vegetation cover. It is within Olkiramatian Group Ranch of the Maasai
pastoral community, about 150 km from Nairobi. It is connected to the small
soda ash mining town of Magadi via a murram road that runs through the salty
plains dominated by stunted acacia trees, short shrubs and scrubs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The scheme is divided into two main blocks.
Entasopia block starts from Entasopia water intake, spreads through the Congo
village while the Oloibortoto block starts at Oloibortoto water intake through
Oltepesi village both ending at river Ewaso Ng’iro south about 8 kilometers to
the east.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUNq6620Iehim3sWsjfZ7X4D-u36CUF2PSsXctRbAPraOO8eMJoplLE_GdZ9N-3A6gfMZ3VSuAMmlNcvvXJaz5N4S54PeTDSA91od8tTXqZyqF9rlc6Q5aqdQ4XSHJzfcBPo7tMiDzrME/s1600/blog.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUNq6620Iehim3sWsjfZ7X4D-u36CUF2PSsXctRbAPraOO8eMJoplLE_GdZ9N-3A6gfMZ3VSuAMmlNcvvXJaz5N4S54PeTDSA91od8tTXqZyqF9rlc6Q5aqdQ4XSHJzfcBPo7tMiDzrME/s400/blog.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
View of the scheme from Nguruman escarpments</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Photo by Kelvin Koinet</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Mr. Mathu,
an agricultural officer in the area said “If appropriate farming and irrigation
methods are used, we will produce large volumes of agricultural produce for the
cosmopolitan community that lives here”. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Small Scale
Horticultural Development Project (SHDP) supported by African Development Bank
(ADB) and the ministry of agriculture is installing a new irrigation system
whereby all irrigation water will be piped to the farms and sprinkler system
will replace the basin irrigation. This is in a view to reduce water loss
through evaporation and seepage. The efficiency of the system will reduce labor
in terms of canal cleaning and maintaining and watering labor. It is expected
that acreage under cultivation will increase from the current 350 ha to 1,876
ha and therefore increase production.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">SHDP has
facilitated the formation of a functional association (Nguruman Irrigation
Water Users Association) whose main objectives are to manage the scheme in
terms of operation and maintenance of the irrigation infrastructure, production
and marketing of horticultural produce, environmental conservation and conflict
management. The association seeks to mitigate low prices of agriculture produce
and poor transport infrastructure as well as forming a link between farmers and
the SHDP. The association is registered with the ministry of gender and social
services.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are challenges though.
Members have not held elections as stipulated by the constitution. It is now
four years yet they should have been held after three years.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It is
important to understand the history of farming in the area which is believed to
have commenced in early sixties and development can be traced back to the time.
The pioneers were the<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> Sonjo</i> and the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Waarrusa</i> communities from Tanzania.
During that time in the early sixties, the Maasai community was purely
pastoralist practicing the nomadic pastoralism in the open Olkiramatian plains.
Later a few Maasai community members came to Nguruman for farming.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Irrigation
water is abstracted from the two main rivers Oloibortoto and Entasopia that
transverse the scheme down from Nguruman escarpment. Up to date, Water for
irrigation is drawn from the rivers using simple division by gravity into
constructed canals that lead to farms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In the beginning, Irrigation was by flooding and farmers used water
whenever they want because it was plenty. Crops grown were maize, cassava,
sweet potatoes, millet, sorghum, guards, pumpkin, bananas, mangoes and sugar
cane.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Each canal
is now managed by an elected committee that ensures the watering schedule is
followed and the canal is maintained. Farmers today use basin irrigation where
the land is tilled and basins are constructed to retain water. Crops grown have
also changed. As reported by Mr. Bainito, Agricultural Extension Officer (AEO)
Magadi, in 1991 the ministry of agriculture introduced the Asian vegetables for
export. The business brought a lot of revenue to the farmers and this
catapulted the area to fame thereafter.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Members of
the scheme are now taking sides concerning the project. Part of the community
thinks the project will create a micro economic zone and promote faster
development. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A bigger
percentage of the community is not for the new irrigation project. “Honestly I
don’t like the project. We are afraid of the change, because we are uncertain
of the outcome. What will happen to the wildlife and cattle that is depended on
the natural rivers and irrigation canals as water points? Is there a provision
for water points for them? We may lose our wildlife”, Satia, a youth from the
area and a research assistant at ICIPE questioned.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Farmers say
there will be an obvious wildlife human conflict for water and feeds if all the
green that is mostly on canals will be gone. A student from an American
university taking environmental studies established that if all the irrigation
water is tapped in to pipes, most of the figs and many other tree species
growing along water canals may be phased out. Farmers fear that birds will eat
their corn or they may poison them all. As observed by a group of resource
assessors from Olkiramatian Research Centre, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Lalleenok</i>. Over twenty birds of different species visit a fig tree
in thirty minutes to eat figs or to rest. That may mean the birds will have
crops as alternative feeds and habitat. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The
community feels that there should have been a lot of consultations which they
claim have not been the case. But now that the project has started, they are
asking for a provision for water to flow in the initial water ways at least
once a week for the vegetation, livestock and wildlife.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“If all that
the community is asking to be considered is in cooperated, then we have the
best project ever”, One of the farmers said.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICEShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09514752732757366753noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3278214545467424482.post-77356522430117583962012-09-17T08:30:00.000-07:002012-09-18T07:58:35.642-07:00Hidden treasures of Nguruman<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">By Esther Nanetia</span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Nguruman, located
in Olkiramatian Group Ranch, past Lake Magadi is about 162km southwest of
Nairobi. It is administratively run by the new Kajiado County hived from the
former populous Rift Valley province. The area is situated at the foot of the
Nguruman escarpment and boarders Ewaso Nyiro River to the east. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The plenty
supply of water comes from Entasopia, Oloibortoto, Sampu and Ewaso Nyiro rivers
which originate from the Mau ranges cutting through the conserved forests of
Nguruman escapement as they flow to Lake Natron in Tanzania. Due to sufficient
water supply, there is diverse vegetation cover of huge acacia, fig, and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">cordia seninsis</i> trees among other native
species. The under growth consists of bushes and herbs. This has resulted in a
distinctive microclimate that brings out a serene natural environment of clean
water and air. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
hospitable <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">maa</i> community is the main
inhabitants of the area, who are mainly pastoralist while others have adapted
to crop farming and retail businesses. The maa community is known for their conservative
culture while their simple lifestyle enables them to conserve the environment.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Tourist
facilities are rapidly developing in Nguruman. Lodges, camping sites and guest
houses are springing up in the area. Sampu lodge, a community lodge in
Olkiramatian Conservation, is strategically located on the Sampu hills
overlooking the Sampu river where lions and buffalos among other wildlife come
to drink, about twenty meters from the tents giving a magnificent view of the
conservation area. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_-Cjb6sRwne8GlXMCAWlXs9cKJq2wXlV_o-6DAbX9KAcKJh3XfgyR0JEDbHzibWad1Y4KF87cA5MYNAF6autCTWIaNY-3J_c4JAEMlr1DF3jXDIWTu7ZoYlCje6pgSnTLtRLn3iLIpZc/s1600/323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_-Cjb6sRwne8GlXMCAWlXs9cKJq2wXlV_o-6DAbX9KAcKJh3XfgyR0JEDbHzibWad1Y4KF87cA5MYNAF6autCTWIaNY-3J_c4JAEMlr1DF3jXDIWTu7ZoYlCje6pgSnTLtRLn3iLIpZc/s400/323.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Sampu Lodge tented camp</span>. <span style="font-size: x-small;">photo by Kelvin Koinet</span></i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Oloibortoto
centre commonly called Ngomongo hosts two guest houses which are also available
in Entasopia centre. These are major services that provide accommodation to
tourists visiting the area. Both centres are at the foot of the lush green
escarpment providing a panoramic view to the guests.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Four camping
sites are available situated in different sides of the area especially along
the rivers. They include Cool Waters along Oloibortoto River, Entasopia River
camping site, Enkare Ng’iro and Lalenook camping sites. These sites offer quite
environment for tourists who wish to interact with nature away from the busy
and noisy urban settings. They can also do leisure fishing, swimming and bird
shooting. However, permission must be obtained from the relevant authorities to
enable one conduct these leisure activities.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWoKfj4pqY0lnkl3BXxRXu1pA4-gNLnLxJraZE3NU8OFsL3KRKYnUZjsiKlu0v0WFUn72T-_ssY-LS95xYedaES9GqWYMS6FURxpJFM54UF3hKAm0U-SLWJa8KbMEZekTEt0La_l_oVUY/s1600/Loisiijo+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="377" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWoKfj4pqY0lnkl3BXxRXu1pA4-gNLnLxJraZE3NU8OFsL3KRKYnUZjsiKlu0v0WFUn72T-_ssY-LS95xYedaES9GqWYMS6FURxpJFM54UF3hKAm0U-SLWJa8KbMEZekTEt0La_l_oVUY/s400/Loisiijo+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: small;">Some of the best shots of Loisiijo Camp located along river Ewaso Ngiro</span></b></i><i><b>.</b></i><br />
<i><b>Photo courtesy of SORALO</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Escarpment
hiking is also available. This is due to the established hiking tracks in Ilchoroi
vicinity. Those hiking usually end up being greeted by the awesome sights of
Entasopia Falls. Swimming is also available at the falls.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The Maasai
community is rich in culture. This is one of the major tourist attractions. Moran
dances and meat camps are some of the regular events found in the area. The
mode of dressing characterized by the cladding of beads, red<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> </i>ochre and<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> shuka </i>fascinates tourists. This is coupled with chanting of
traditional songs accompanied by sensational jumping with horn blowing. In meat
camps, eating of smoked meat and drinking of herbal soup is the main activity
that occurs here. Visitors are usually treated with this local cuisine. Notably
this is a preserve for men.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Nguruman has
a lot of unexplored tourist sites. Those who visit the area will find the place
charming and unique. </span></div>
NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICEShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09514752732757366753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3278214545467424482.post-38084098188332276272012-09-05T03:16:00.001-07:002012-09-06T01:38:12.110-07:00Fig tree: the heritage of Nguruman<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">By
Rafael Mutiso<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Fig trees are rare, useful and grow naturally in sites with high water
table, swamps and along rivers. In Nguruman, they mainly grow along the
numerous streams and water canals constructed by farmers to convey water to
their farms hence their spread and abundance in the area. They require soils
that are sandy, rich and well drained. The trees are propagated through seeds
and cuttings. When cultivated in a home garden they require considerable space
as they enlarge, spread, very shady and are fairly fast growing.</span><i><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">The most common species of fig
trees is </span><i><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Ficus carica</span></i><i><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 115%;">
</span></i><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">known as the
common fig.</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAG4uaNvrJfp4VriD6OEv2NvFw8mhDtq2crxVHCpbpYE-RkWiJHrUYDh3mcSEC1q-oQEOwws5tQxho2-iUUA3tlb9iaR3OJKobndGNhE0PcHavwnOyR5JDUBNv5UtUnCMtUzhB5xHnFSo/s1600/DSC08484.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAG4uaNvrJfp4VriD6OEv2NvFw8mhDtq2crxVHCpbpYE-RkWiJHrUYDh3mcSEC1q-oQEOwws5tQxho2-iUUA3tlb9iaR3OJKobndGNhE0PcHavwnOyR5JDUBNv5UtUnCMtUzhB5xHnFSo/s320/DSC08484.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><b><i style="text-align: start;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Common fig found in Nguruman <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">(Ficus carica)</span></span></i></b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The tree, due to its large size provides a cool shade, aesthetic value,
and acts as a wind breaker. It also acts as a carbon sink keeping the air
fresh. Its roots helps to hold soil firmly hence reducing soil erosion and
increase water retention. This plays a key role in land improvement. It also
acts as a mulch reducing loss of water through evaporation thus supporting
vegetation underneath.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">The inhabitants of Nguruman area are mainly the <i>maa</i> people who value the tree for its diverse uses. They use its
leaves as fodder for their livestock by cutting the branches. The leaves are<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; line-height: normal;"><b><i> </i></b></span></span>fairly high in nutritive value with about 9% crude protein dry matter. Fruits
are eaten by livestock especially goat and sheep. Wild animals like monkeys,
baboons and gazelles eat the fig fruits. Birds mainly the Mouse birds, pigeons
and many specious of doves among other birds feed on the fig fruits thus supporting
wildlife and reducing human wildlife conflict. They are also consumed by
people; fresh, stewed or dried and stored for later use. Ripe figs are used for
alcoholic beverages. The inner bark is used to make strong ropes used by women
to carry firewood and water over long distances.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Nguruman residents also use the tree for various medicinal purposes.
The leaves are used to treat snakebites and jaundice. The latex is said to be
effective for chest diseases, colds and dysentery while the bark is used to treat
coughs, throat infections, chest pain and anaemia in children hence saving
lives as well as medicinal costs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Some species of the tree has several spiritual and sacred uses such as
performing various rituals in the community such as keeping away evil spirits.
It is also a focal point for resolving conflict among the people. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Although the importance of the fig tree is irreplaceable and therefore
must be conserved to keep the species around for a long time, it faces a big
challenge as there is an ongoing project to pipe water for irrigation leaving
the canals dry. This is a clear indication that all the fig trees along the
canals may dry up. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Those who visit Nguruman will enjoy the shade and beautiful scenery
created by the towering green indigenous fig trees.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
NGURUMAN COMMUNITY VOICEShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09514752732757366753noreply@blogger.com0