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National dialogue is essential in addressing weekly demos- activists tell government

Coast Civil Society Organisations coordinator Nicholas Songora addressing Journalists at Anika Centre offices on Saturday 

By Our Reporter 

A section of activists in Mombasa County wants the government to conduct a national dialogue on the ongoing weekly demonstrations against SGR in the county.

The activists argue that SGR debate is a matter of public interest and should not be taken for granted.

Coast Civil Society Organizations Coordinator Nicholas Songora voicing his concern said bringing all stakeholders on board is the only remedy to the frequent demos.

Hali ya uchumi imekuwa ngumu. Kuna haja ya serikali kuwaelimisha wananchi kabla ya kutekeleza miradi yoyote ya maendeleo. The standard of living has shot up. There is a need to sensitize Kenyans before implementing any development project.

The coordinator further pointed out that the protests are a result of the high standard of living amongst low income earners.

On the question of activism in the Coast region the human rights defender noted that it has greatly increased adding that the government question fully implements the 2010 constitution.

He says several lobby groups have amplified their voices on issue affecting Kenyans.

Songora who also doubles as Manyatta Youth Entertainment MAYE executive director said the 2010 constitution has created an ample room for Kenyans to air their concerns.

The coordinator said “The government has been adhering to the supreme law of the land. Therefore the ordinary Kenyans enjoy their rights and privileges.”

This he notes has given Kenyans an opportunity to express their views on matters of national interest.

MAYE programs coordinator Esther Ndarigho wants the government to prioritize on women adding that they play a crucial role as far as governance is concerned.

“Women should be given an opportunity. We are not fully involved as far as leadership is concerned” she said.

Juma Mwaboye a MAYE official tasked the government to develop more simplified Uwezo fund mechanism in order to facilitate access for us youths.

“As youth we are asking the government to develop a good mechanism that will enable youth to access these funds” Juma noted.

MAYE Programs officer Allan Wangulu says that it is the responsibility of the government to fully involve youths from the initial stage.

According to him however he says there is need for youths themselves to undertake frequent follow-ups of government projects from their initial phases.

“What is important is for the youths themselves to conduct frequent follow-ups of these projects” he noted.

The activists urged the political elites to involve youths in their development plans and strategies to ensure equity equality and inclusivity.

Monday’s 27 demonstrations marked its seventh peaceful demo in a row.

The lobbyists were addressing journalists at Anika centre offices located at Dongo Kundu on Saturday.




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