By Machel Waikenda
The exit of President Kibaki from stage of one decade of national leadership that ended in a smooth transition of power may denote another elemental mark in shaping the future leadership of this country. His well-deserved rest comes after 10 years of service to Kenyans as President, and 50 in public service that has profoundly anchored this country on a development path and fundamental gains that marked his tenure at the helm of the presidency. Bravo Kibaki!
Equally prominent in his last communiqué as the Head of State, Kibaki exhibited unwavering confidence in the capacities of President Uhuru Kenyatta and his Deputy William Ruto to steer this country forward and efficiently run government affairs. The duo vowed to promote unity, transparency and diversify the country’s economic base in their service to Kenyans.
The commitment manifested by Uhuru and Ruto and faith expressed by Kibaki is clear indication of their commitment to the oath they subscribed to in serving Kenyans.
As Kenyan patriots, it is fitting to give Kibaki a big hand for the tremendous work realised under his leadership since 2002. Just to mention a few, all pupils now have access to free primary education and secondary school students have affordable quality education.
In the education sector, the enrollment levels since 2003, when free education was initiated, transition from primary to secondary schools has more than tripled. Similarly, with the increased chartered public universities and technical colleges, more students now have an opportunity to access higher education. These are part of the educational reforms the Jubilee Government should improve upon.
Significant infrastructural developments ranging from road expansion, government-sponsored rural electrification and improved Syokimau rail transport are just a few of the key highlights. Strengthening of public institutions like the Judiciary and instituting proper systems to uphold transparency and accountability of public service has been another landmark stride in the Kibaki’s 10-year journey. Of great significance are the gains enshrined in the Constitution that was promulgated three years ago.
President Uhuru pledged to defend the spirit of the Constitution, and jealously safeguard devolution.
The Jubilee Government can create employment opportunities for the youth. The sanity and charisma demonstrated by the youth over the electoral and post-election period is clear confirmation of determination to engage in constructive nation building and taking up leadership roles. This gesture vindicated young people from blame as architects and agents of violence and marked a beginning of resourceful and conscious engagement to the betterment of this nation. Among the top priorities listed in the Jubilee government is youth employment through public-private partnership and creation of an enabling environment for the private sector to provide more opportunities.
The procurement process has been earmarked for drastic review to make it faster, accessible and transparent to bring on board young people to conduct business with government and various publics.
Accessing government loans and other facilities like the Youth Enterprise Fund will be simplified to enable young people, who constitute majority of fresh innovative graduates, benefit from such facilities without the mandatory collateral that was formerly demanded.
To sum up, may I salute the former President for a job well done and playing a strong role in defining another chapter of our nation’s history and taking the country through a peaceful poll exercise.
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