2023 – Mukuru Youth Initiative

22Dec, 2023

Did You Achieve Your 2023 Goals?

*Participants during Coffee Bar Tuesday.* Photo: Evans Jomo

Have you fulfilled the resolutions you set for yourself in 2023? If not, you shouldn’t worry since it’s never too late to initiate or reconsider your goals. As we approach the conclusion of 2023, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on the past year and begin your resolutions and plans for 2024. Our last #CoffeeBarTuesday of 2023 centered around participants sharing their experiences of the year, specifically focusing on whether they achieved their set goals and resolutions.

A majority of participants disclosed that they were unable to fulfill some of their resolutions, citing various reasons. Conversely, some participants successfully accomplished 99% of their resolutions. Looking back, individuals may discover that they fell short of their aspirations or developed undesirable habits. This juncture presents an ideal time to strategize for the upcoming year and establish new personal or professional goals.

For those who realized more than 80% of their resolutions, some shared of the contributing factors with many emphasizing consistency, family support and their skillsets as what helped them in achieving a lot. Notably, consistency emerged as a pivotal element in achieving your goals. Keeping track of progress through written documentation provides a visual representation of one’s journey, facilitating more effective planning and serving as a confidence booster.

Participants shared some of the achievements for the year, ranging from acquiring new skills, increasing net worth, completing educational endeavors, avoiding unplanned pregnancies, travel, securing new employment, to unique accomplishments such as shaking hands with King Charles. An individual also highlighted the underrated achievement of good health and being alive, emphasizing its significance.

A participant acknowledged the instrumental role of MuYI Hub in addressing financial literacy and creating a platform for young people to discuss, learns and get solutions for their lives, communities, and the country.

Reflecting on personal growth, one participant shared, “Through MuYI Hub and Coffee Bar Tuesday, I have gained valuable financial literacy information that is currently assisting me in managing my finances.”

At the end of the session, participants were reminded to recognize the milestones achieved and the challenges overcome. Celebrating these small victories can provide a motivational boost during challenging times. We also reminded them that the days remain constant, only the numbers change and encouraged them to carry forward unaccomplished resolutions to the next year.

Wishing everyone happy holidays!

15Dec, 2023

Give Feedback for the Mukuru Festival 2023

15Dec, 2023

Mukuru Awards 2023 full list of winners

Congratulations to all winners in the #MukuruFestivalAwards2023 Here is the Full Winners List.

1. ACTOR OF THE YEAR – KAYCER COMEDIAN

2. COACH OF THE YEAR – DAVID GAYO – SWIFT FC

3. COMMUNITY GROUP OF THE YEAR – LADIES ON THE MOVE

4. DANCE GROUP OF THE YEAR – MUSA ART DANCERS

5. DANCER OF THE YEAR – PANTHER ( JUMA DICKSON)

6. DEEJAY OF THE YEAR – OWICHY THE DEEJAY

7. FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR – ELEANOR

8. FILM DIRECTOR – DIRECTOR BOBBY

9. FINE/VISUAL ARTIST OF THE YEAR – MIKA OBANDA

10. FOOTBALL TEAM OF THE YEAR – KAWASAKI FC

11. FOOTBALLER OF THE YEAR – DERROH LEFTY (CYPRUS FC)

12. MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR – THE PREACHER

13. MUSIC GROUP OF THE YEAR – THE BANS

14. MUSIC VIDEO OF THE YEAR – FRALEE BOLO – LUKU DIRIBA

15. ORGANIZATION OF THE YEAR – REUBEN CENTRE

16. BEYOND MUKURU ARTIST OF THE YEAR – IANO RANKING

17. PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR – JOHNTE

18. PRODUCER OF THE YEAR – DUNKEY PRO

19. RADIO PRESENTER OF THE YEAR – MAASAI 001

20. SONG OF THE YEAR – THE SQUAD ENTERTAINMENT- KARIFORM

21. STYLIST FASHION DESIGNER OF THE YEAR – WILLIAN KITHEKU

22. YOUTH OF THE YEAR – HADALE SARU

Honorary Awards by the Committee for Great Achievement and Impact in Mukuru.

23. NELMO NEWSONG

24. ADAM MASAVA

25. KATOI COG

#mukurufestival2023

#mukurufest2023

#mukuruawards

16Nov, 2023

Mukuru Festival Awards 2023 Nominees

The Mukuru Festival is an annual community event that celebrates the spirit of Mukuru, one of Nairobi’s largest informal settlements. Founded in 2013, it has evolved from its original name, Mukuru Awards, into an extensive and inclusive festival. The festival’s core mission is to foster positive change, community unity, and good governance for enhanced resilience.

Below are the nominees for the 2023 Mukuru Festival Awards after careful review by a team of selected committee members from over 390 submissions.

To vote for your Favorite nominee dial *702*25*2*Code# You can also visit https://eventstur.com/voting-details/mukuru-festival-awards-2023 to cast your vote.

Male Artist Of The Year

Fralee Bolo – 8900
Aude Toller – 8901
J Darel – 8902
Raggatone De – 8903
Zagga Youngster 254 – 8904
Mose Rap Kid – 8905
The Preacher – 8906
Teaboi – 8907
Antenna – 8908

Female Artist Of The Year

Eleanor – 8909
Bene 3 – 8910
Bilher – 8911
Linsy – 8912

Music Group Of The Year

The Bans – 8913
Blessed And Earsly – 8914
Mamorio Family – 8915
The Squad Entertainment – 8916
Sons Music – 8917

Song Of The Year

The Squad Entertainment – Kariform – 8918
The Bans – Dodge – 8919
Blessed And Earsly – Bingirika – 8920
J Darel – Tafuta – 8921
Fralee Bolo – Luku Diriba – 8922
Antenna – Baikoko – 8923
Sons Music – Kilegeze – 8924
Zagga Youngster Ft Linsy – Preasure – 8925
Aude Toller – Bado Tena – 8926

Music Video Of The Year

Fralee Bolo – Luku Diriba – 8927
Antenna- Baikoko – 8928
Sons Music – Kilegeze – 8929
Blessed And Earsly – Bingirika – 8930

Dancer Of The Year

Panther ( Juma Dickson) – 8931
Deno Mr Bean – 8932
Ochi Di Icon Ke – 8933
Benny – 8934
Adam Futuresistic – 8935

Dance Group Of The Year

Muyi Dancers – 8936
Extinguishers Dance Group – 8937
Green Pillar Production – 8938
Statics – 8939

Musa Art Dancers – 8940

Football Team Of The Year

Fc Creative Hands – 8941
Kawasaki Fc – 8942
Swift Fc – 8943

Footballer Of The Year

Barthez (Reuben United) – 8944
Derroh Lefty (Cyprus Fc) – 8945
Lameck (Fc Creative Hands) – 8946

Coach Of The Year

Author (Jasa Academy) – 8947
Samuel Kisolo ( Fc Creative Hands) – 8948
David Gayo (Swift Fc) – 8949

Organization Of The Year

Reuben Centre – 8950
The Hope For Change – 8951
Vicco – 8952
Sauti Afrika – 8953

Community Group Of The Year

Ladies On The Move – 8954
Green Pillar Production – 8955
Biupe Innovators – 8956
Sinai Ghetto Shinners – 8957

Radio Presenter Of The Year

Maasai 001 – 8958
Kaka Beru – 8959

Fine/Visual Artist Of The Year

Mika Obanda – 8961
Oriwo Juniour – 8962
Vombart – 8963
Krees The Artist – 8964
Tyson Artillery – 8965

Youth Of The Year

Fredrick Njoroge Casanoi – 8966
Hadale Saru – 8967
Bridgit Atieno (Hustlers Kitchen) – 8968
Alan Sirima – Giant Facilitator – 8969

Film Director

Shado – 8970
Director Bobby – 8971

Actor Of The Year

Shaddy Boy – 8972
Kaycer Comedian – 8973

Photographer Of The Year

Johnte – 8974
Lishon Visuals – 8975

Stylist Fasion Designer Of The Year

Raheem Benteke – 8976
Willian Kitheku – 8977

Producer Of The Year

Dunkey Pro – 8978
Bigboys Records – 8979

Deejay Of The Year

Owitchy The Deejay – 8980
Dj Cj 254 – 8981

2Nov, 2023

Where Does Consent Start or End?

*Participant during Coffee Bar Tuesday.* **Photo: Julius Rasat**

Consent is a fundamental aspect of any sexual encounter, regardless of the circumstances. This week’s Coffee Bar Tuesday discussion was prompted by a distressing incident involving a woman who was sexually assaulted while unconscious, likely due to excessive alcohol consumption. The identity of the perpetrator and their motivations remain unclear. When engaging in sexual activity, communication is the cornerstone of consent and it should be a part of every encounter, irrespective of the specific activity involved. It’s crucial to understand that consenting to one particular activity or on one occasion does not imply consent for other activities or future encounters.

During our discussion, the conversation was guided by three key questions posed by the moderator:

1. Is being drunk a sign that someone is ready to engage in sexual activity?

2. What should you do if someone passes out during a sexual encounter after previously agreeing to it?

3. What would be your response if someone asks you to stop during sex?

The responses to these questions were varied and highlighted the need for greater awareness and protection against sexual abuse. Out of the 22 participants, 8 believed that if someone promises sex, they should follow through, even if they become incapacitated, while 10 believed that if someone passes out after agreeing to sex, you should respect their condition and not proceed. One participant shared that, regardless of the relationship’s nature, no one should be coerced into having sex against their will or when they are not in the mood. Consent is an ongoing process that involves open communication about boundaries and comfort levels.

The discussion also focused into the topic of someone requesting that sexual activity be stopped, which revealed a concerning level of misunderstanding and normalization of rape within our communities. Some participants believed that once sex has started, no one should request it to stop. This assertion was met with strong reactions, with many acknowledging the need for better education on consent and the importance of respecting boundaries.

“Why would someone tell you to stop during sex, this should have happened before the sex started. Also, why is the person not thinking about the person’s feelings. ” A participant shared

The conversation then shifted towards understanding the legal definition of rape. According to the Sexual Offences Act of 2006, rape occurs when someone intentionally and unlawfully penetrates another person’s genital organs without their consent or consent was not given freely but obtained through force, threats, or intimidation. The law prescribes severe penalties for those found guilty of this crime. The moderator emphasized that consent cannot be given by underage, intoxicated, drugged, asleep, or unconscious. Furthermore, consent obtained under pressure, intimidation, or threat is not considered valid consent.

In conclusion, the discussion highlighted the importance of being able to withdraw consent at any point if one feels uncomfortable, and anything beyond that withdrawal should be considered rape or sexual assault. It’s essential to remember that agreeing to one activity or having engaged in it in the past does not grant permission for other activities or future encounters. Establishing clear boundaries and expectations with your partner before engaging in any sexual activity is crucial. We also reminded the participants that a no mean no and doesn’t mean yes or maybe. See you Tuesday

25Oct, 2023

Self Esteem – High Or Low?

Our behavior, reactions, speech, and even our actions are often closely tied to our self-esteem. What affects our self-esteem can vary from person to person, and it can fluctuate over time. This week’s #CoffeeBarTuesday revolved around the topic of cultivating a healthy self-esteem. Extensive research has consistently shown that self-esteem has a direct impact on our overall well-being, particularly when it comes to children in their formative years.

We recognized that self-esteem can generally be categorized as either low or high. In simple terms, self-esteem is the measure of how we perceive and value ourselves. It is rooted in our own beliefs and opinions about ourselves, which can be challenging to alter. The discussion began with a guiding question from the moderator, inquiring whether participants considered themselves to have low or high self-esteem. Out of 21 participants, 12 acknowledged having low self-esteem, while 5 reported having high self-esteem. An additional type of self-esteem was revealed during the conversation, one that relies on the use of drugs, substances, or external pressures and circumstances.

Low self-esteem can often be attributed to various life events or experiences, such as being bullied, facing discrimination, enduring stigma, job loss or employment struggles, difficulties at work or in education, physical and mental health issues, relationship challenges, separation or divorce, financial or housing problems, concerns related to appearance and body image, and the pressure to meet unrealistic expectations, often perpetuated through social media.

One participant shared her personal experience of having a strained relationship with her mother, where her mother failed to offer support or encouragement for her endeavors. This constant criticism and lack of support greatly impacted her self-esteem. She emphasized that her self-praise was always tainted by self-doubt and self-hatred, stemming from the lifelong feeling of inadequacy. Her mother’s constant scolding and demotivation played a significant role in shaping her self-esteem.

She used to scold me on anything; she never even encouraged me to do anything or even congratulated me. She always finds a reason to either scold me or demotivate me.

The discussion also touched on identifying signs of high self-esteem, which includes acting assertively without feeling guilty, being comfortable in communication with others, focusing on the present rather than dwelling on the past, seeing oneself as equal to others without an inflated or diminished sense of self-worth, embracing challenges and risks for personal growth, and handling criticism without taking it personally, recognizing that personal growth is separate from the opinions of others. Effective self-communication, without fear of expressing likes, dislikes, and feelings, was also highlighted.

Many participants highlighted how financial instability and the lack of a defined social class can impact self-esteem. One participant explained how not having financial resources can hinder one’s ability to approach people and opportunities. However, it was emphasized that believing in oneself and accepting one’s true self are crucial factors for success, healthy relationships, and overall happiness. Self-esteem plays a pivotal role in leading a fulfilling life by instilling the belief in our abilities and the motivation to pursue them, ultimately fostering a positive outlook on life.

24Oct, 2023

Role Of Member Of County Assembly – Oversight

Oversight plays a crucial role entrusted to members of the county assembly. It is through their oversight responsibilities that the public places its confidence in MCAs to ensure the County Executive effectively and efficiently implements county policies and projects. MCAs bear the critical responsibility of guaranteeing that the county government delivers services directly to the grassroots and secures sufficient funds for these services.

Unfortunately, many times the community is unaware that MCAs are not mandated to physically construct roads or other structures. Their primary duty lies in overseeing county government projects to ensure they adhere to regulations and meet the required standards. No county project is initiated without the MCA’s knowledge especially those in their wards, typically a they county usually erects a signboard displaying project details along with photographs of both the governor and the area MCA. The presence of the MCA’s photo signifies their awareness and oversight of the project.

Given that MCAs belong to various committees, they possess the capacity to supervise the County Executive Committee, ensuring that they deliver and overseeing proposed projects at the county level. MCAs are obligated to participate in sectoral committee, which involves investigating, inquiring into, and reporting on all matters related to departmental mandates, management, activities, administration, operations and budget estimates.

MCAs are responsible for vetting and reporting on appointments necessitating approval by the County Assembly, except for those falling under Standing Order 196 (Committee on Appointments). They are also expected to submit reports and recommendations to the County Assembly regularly, including proposals for new legislation.

The following details the profiles of five members of the county assembly from Embakasi South and the committees they represent.

Name	Ward	Position	Sector
Hon. Scolastica Mande Muthoni	Kwa Reuben	Member	Transport and Public Livestock And Fisheries
Hon. Evans Okaru Nyangicha	Imara Daima	Member	Labour And Social Welfare Health Services
Hon. Francis Kimondo	Kwa Njenga	Member	Planning And Housing Justice And Legal Affairs
Hon. Moses Mutinda	Kware	Member	Trade and Tourism And Cooperatives
Hon. Musango Maithya	Pipeline	Chairperson	Transport and Public works

We must continue to emphasize the importance of our MCAs executing their oversight role effectively. MCAs have a responsibility to ensure that resources are managed efficiently. As citizens, we also play a crucial role in monitoring and supervising the actions of our MCAs. The Sauti Mtaani Project is dedicated to enlightening our community by educating them about the various roles and responsibilities of those in positions of authority. We firmly believe that a clear understanding of these roles is essential for holding them accountable and asking relevant questions effectively.

This project is committed to empowering community members, enabling them to actively engage with their elected leaders. It aims to enhance their knowledge of social accountability and leverages art as a creative tool for efficiently addressing community issues. Jua Leader wako!

24Oct, 2023

Mukuru Festival 2023

🌟 Mukuru Festival 2023: Embracing Good Governance for Community Resilience 🌟

Are you ready for an unforgettable experience? Mukuru Festival is back after a three-year break, and it’s bigger, better, and more inspiring than ever! This year, we’re all about embracing “Good Governance for Community Resilience,” and we’re bringing you an eight-day celebration that truly embodies the heart and soul of Mukuru.

The Journey So Far: Mukuru Festival has come a long way since its inception as the Mukuru Awards in 2013. What began as a one-day event to recognize change-makers has evolved into an eight-day extravaganza. In 2023, we’re staying true to our roots as the “Mukuru Festival.”

Community Engagement: The heart of the festival lies in building stronger community bonds. Through community forums, workshops, and dialogues, we’re creating a space where community members can openly engage with duty bearers to address local issues and build lasting relationships.

Art Exchange: Our dedicated forum for artists allows them to collaborate, learn, and share their art’s power to drive positive social impact. Whether it’s visual artists, musicians, dancers, or film actors, they’ll find a place to inspire collaboration and leverage their talents for Mukuru’s betterment.

Celebrating Diversity: Mukuru is a melting pot of diverse cultures and traditions, and we’re here to celebrate it all. Our festival showcases a wide range of talents, from traditional music and dance to culinary delights. It’s a celebration of unity and inclusivity, where everyone’s cultural contributions are cherished.

Festival Activities:

Football Tournament: A thrilling competition that emphasizes teamwork and fair play, echoing the principles of good governance.
Street Naming and Signs: A community-driven initiative to recognize the importance of good governance in our streets’ identity and organization.
Visual Art Expression: Murals and artwork that tell the story of our community’s resilience and aspirations.
Community Forums: A space for open dialogues between community members and duty bearers to address community challenges.
MR and Miss Mukuru 2022: A platform to empower and celebrate the beauty and talent of our youth.
Film Screening and Theater: Engaging films and community theater that raise awareness about social issues.
Artists Forum: Discussions about the role of art in promoting good governance and community unity.
Concert: A grand closing celebration that honors Mukuru Change Makers and showcases the community’s unity.

An Eight-Day Extravaganza: Mukuru Festival 2023 is an 8-day event running from November 25th to December 2nd. Our venues are strategically spread across Mukuru in three different constituencies, including Embakasi South, Makadara, and Starehe. You’ll find us in Mukuru Kwa Reuben, Mukuru Kwa Njenga, Viwandani, Mukuru Kayaba, Mariguini, and Mukuru Nyayo.

Marketing and Visibility: We’re leaving no stone unturned when it comes to promoting Mukuru Festival. You’ll find our posters, social media, radio, TV, and community networks spreading the word far and wide.

Sponsorship Opportunities: If you believe in the power of community and positive transformation, we invite you to partner with us. Your sponsorship can make a significant impact and help us achieve our goals for the festival.

Join the Celebration: Mukuru Festival is for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned visitor or joining for the first time. Let’s come together, celebrate unity, and embark on a journey towards community resilience. This festival is a testament to our strength, diversity, and collective determination to shape a brighter future for Mukuru.

Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the festival dates. Let’s make Mukuru Festival 2023 a truly unforgettable experience!

#MukuruFest2023 #CommunityResilience #UnityInDiversity #GoodGovernance

23Oct, 2023

MUKURU FESTIVAL AWARDS

🌟 Mukuru Festival Awards: Celebrating Excellence and Resilience 🌟

Get ready for a night of glitz, glamour, and the celebration of outstanding individuals and groups who have left an indelible mark on the Mukuru community! The Mukuru Festival Awards are back, and they’re bigger and more diverse than ever before.

This year, we’re thrilled to introduce over 30 categories that will honor the incredible work and achievements of those who have contributed to our community’s growth and transformation. 🏆

Categories include:

🗳️ Voted Once Categories: You, the community, have the power to cast your votes and choose the winners in these categories. It’s a chance for your voice to be heard and to show appreciation for those who have made a real difference.

Artist of the Year
Song of the year
Music Video of the year
Football team of the year
Footballer of the year
Coach of the year
Organization of the year
Group of the year
Dance group of the year
Radio Presenter of the year
Visual Artist of the year
Youth of the year
Film of the year
Film Director of the year
Actor of the year
Photographer of the year
Stylist/Fashion Designer of the year
Deejay of the year

🎖️ Honorary Category: Our honorary category pays tribute to individuals and organizations whose exceptional contributions have had a lasting impact on Mukuru. These awards are a symbol of our collective gratitude and admiration.

Join us for an unforgettable evening filled with music, dance, and heartwarming moments as we honor the unsung heroes of Mukuru. Together, we’ll shine a spotlight on excellence, unity, and the spirit of resilience that defines our community.

Stay tuned for more updates and announcements as we prepare to recognize and applaud the incredible talents and efforts that make Mukuru shine. 🌟🎶

#MukuruFestAwards #ExcellenceInMukuru #Resilience #CommunityHeroes

To Nominate Yourself or to Nominate a Change Maker Submit to the form or Link Below

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1HIYwOPyemTaKBomAU6qe6VTkdcSBuK9SS-z6SdMTM98/edit

https://forms.gle/4dRRTZh7WudbrkreA

Loading…

18Oct, 2023

What Is Sexually Transmitted Infection?

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV/AIDS represent an often overlooked and unspoken epidemic. This situation is being contributed by shortage of condoms in the country and a lack of youth-friendly services. This week’s discussion focused on understanding STI, its consequences and the importance of regular screening. The conversation was guided by a documentary by Raphael Tuju, exploring various STIs and their graphic effects.

STIs are prevalent among sexually active individuals, putting anyone engaging in sexual activity at risk, including those with HIV. These infections are transmitted through sexual activities like anal, vaginal, or oral sex, though HIV has additional transmission routes, including unsterilized drug needle use. STIs do not discriminate based on sexual orientation or hygiene standards and can even be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding.

According to the World Health Organization, over 30 different types of STIs can be contracted through sexual contact, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, human papillomavirus, trichomoniasis, syphilis, hepatitis A, B, and C, among others. More than 1 million STIs are acquired daily worldwide, with most cases showing no symptoms. Shockingly, over 1 million pregnant women were estimated to have syphilis in 2016, leading to more than 350,000 adverse birth outcomes.

Majority of young people in our discussion were surprised to learn that STIs can lead to infertility and even mental illness if left untreated. They also raised questions about who is the carrier between men and women. With the majority of men stating that women are carriers of STI knowingly while women are carriers unknowingly.

“I am shocked that STIs can lead to madness and infertility, the video has shown us something that we have never seen before. Those pictures were traumatizing but they show things as they are.”

Proper and consistent condom use is one of the most effective methods of protection against STIs, including HIV. However, condoms may not protect against STIs that cause ulcers outside the genital area, such as syphilis or genital herpes. Whenever possible, condoms should be used during vaginal and anal intercourse. Safe and highly effective vaccines exist for two viral STIs, hepatitis B and HPV, representing significant progress in STI prevention.

STIs often go unnoticed as they are frequently asymptomatic or present non-specific symptoms. Diagnosis relies on laboratory tests involving blood, urine, or anatomical samples, and one individual can carry at least one STI in three anatomical sites. These variations can lead to missed diagnoses, and individuals might be treated for multiple STIs.

Effective treatments are available for several STIs. Three bacterial STIs (chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis) and one parasitic STI (trichomoniasis) can generally be cured with single-dose antibiotic regimens. For herpes and HIV, the most effective medications are antivirals, which can manage the diseases but not cure them. Antivirals can help fight the hepatitis B virus and slow damage to the liver.

As the video emphasized, to control the spread of STIs, it is crucial to follow the ABC approach: Abstinence from sex, Being faithful to an uninfected partner, and using Condoms correctly. Regular screening is also essential. Ignoring minor discomfort or itching is unwise for sexually active individuals, as getting tested for STIs is vital for their health and the well-being of their partners.

Reference: World Health Organization.

To watch the video, click on this link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4YxmjQ2ANqs

Yearly Archives: 2023