Kenya

In response to the KBW request, I have felt the desire and the proud allegiance to write about Kenya in unison with my fellow KBW folk.

I guess at my age, Kenya exists as a pre Kibaki and post Kibaki country for me. Unlike many other Kenyans, I see reason to be very proud of what Kibaki's government has achieved. I believe it is absolutely unrealistic to have expected an immediate turnaround on everything after the new government took over. And this doesn't mean that I agree with everything that has come out of the current government (Why do I feel the need for a disclaimer here, dear cannot wait to argue Kenyans?).

For me, the glass is definitely half full. I realize it can quite easily be knocked over. However I wanted to write a messgae of hope. Hope for the future because Kenya's future will have the majority of adults knowing how to read and write, thanks to free primary education. Hope for the business sector as the Nairobi stock market flourishes now that it is open to all qualifying businesses. Hope for agriculture as the co-operatives revive and delayed payments start to make way to the farmers. Hope for the health of every Kenyan as the health Ministry looks at the possibility of a new health system. Hope for a bright future, because for the first time this year, the budget is expected not to include donor funds. With this expectation, how can you let anyone convince you that corruption has not been dealt with to any extent? No one is claiming it is done away with, quite frankly I am yet to find a non- corrupt country. Those wagging fingers at Kenya are as bad, actually much worse if you ask me. Rome was not built in a day and Kenya will not be turned around in 4 years either. Progress is what we are to demand and to expect.

As a Madaraka day wish, I urge that you all start seeing things as they have changed. Support the no smoking in public places ban. It will save lives including those of your loved ones. Revisit the breathalizer tests. Make the roads safer for all, young and old. It really doesn't matter who supplied the breatherlizers. Someone had to. As long as they weren't overpriced and the governement ripped off, there isn't an issue of concern. Keep your eyes focused on the real issues and don't fall prey to propaganda so easily. Support the media, but beg for integrity from them. Question Michuki either on his acts or his methods. Figure which one out. Remember that Rwanda April 1994 may not have happened if someone had stepped in and controlled the radio stations. Most importantly, stop echoing the wealthy nations' sentiments like a bunch of sheep. Take ultimate control of Kenya and its progressive path. This you do by entrusting all faith of capability and entitlement of Kenya to no one else but the actual Kenyans.

Madaraka cannot be given to you beyond being made available. The next step is to take it and to exercise it. And this part is up to every individual. You are as free as you let yourself be. Claim Madaraka. Take Madaraka. Be Madaraka.

Long live Kenya!

Wishing everyone a bright, positive and literal Madaraka day!