Dear ICT consumer,
Once again I must apologize for my absence in the blogging world. My reasons are honest; had to study as I had exams! Cliché right? Either way, it is true! This concludes my apology. Thank you.
As I studied for my exams, questions twirled in my mind. These are the questions that many students ask themselves, desperately searching for the answers. Why do learn things we won't “need” in the future? Why do lecturers “torture” us with exams? Will I ever find a job in this developing country?
The last question really had me thinking. In my country, the unemployment rate is at a staggering 40% The average Kenyan lives under a dollar a day. Most of the population fall under the umbrella of sub-standards of living. However, does that mean we give up? NO!
The world has derived terms that disintegrates the society rather than uniting us. One such term is development. Who defies the term development? According to whose “desirable” standards did this phenomenon come from? Is it limited only to a large scale?
As a result, many countries strive to be recognized as developed nations; Kenya included. Despite various setbacks in our aim for “development”, we shouldn't give up. Let us not develop so as to fit in with the society, but develop at our own pace for the betterment of our nation. As much as we are seen to be staying stagnant in terms development, through my eyes development has already occurred. Development is seen in the free public primary school education benefiting thousands of children, almost 17 million phone users embracing technology, a peaceful referendum voting process proving the world Kenya is peaceful, embracing a new Constitution after the struggles of the past 20 years, Increasing revenue brought in by tourism and even an improve in infrastructure.
Yes, there have been struggles and hiccups, but these are unavoidable circumstances. True character is derived from how these struggles are overcome. I do not necessarily back all the methods of overcoming the issues of development in our country, but I believe that is being done in good faith.
In our quest for “development”, we should use the “developed” countries as our case studies. Borrowing certain aspects from different nations builds a nation exhibiting open- mindness and one that embraces diversity. We can borrow the idea of flexi-time working hours from the US, part time jobs from Canada, improved pension schemes from UK, better road networks from China, online jobs from Australia among many ideas. However, let us not let foreign ideas dull our sense of innovation or our close ties to culture, but rather augment our already intact systems of status-quo.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Thursday, August 5, 2010
ALL EYES ON KENYA- Update
An update on the historic poll in Kenya.
The President, Prime Minister and Vice- President were all present at KICC (Kenya International Conference Centre) as attention shifted from the IIEC headquaters at 5.15 p.m
The elite trio were to address Kenyans at 4 p.m. However, they delayed their speech to the public in the hope of the results being finalized.
With the YES team winning with 2.5 million votes at 5 p.m, it was widely believed they had won the referendum day voting; a belief confirmed at 8 p.m
The registered number of voters totaled to 12 million- 71% of whom voted during the poll. The YES team emerged victorious, accumulating 5.94 million votes while the NO team gathered 2.68 million as of 7 p.m.
Prime Minister Raila Odinga led the country in celebrating in the new constitution. However, he did underline that this is by no means a victory for only the YES group, but the nation as a whole. He further emphasized that it is now time for the nation to work together to make the Constitution work for the benefit of the country.
NO campaign influential member, Mr. Ruto concedes defeat in the poll- not in the building of the nation. In his address to the media, he underscored the importance of a meeting between the two parties to reach an agreement on the contentious issues surrounding the new Constitution.
The President has two weeks to which he has to put pen to paper in approval of the Constitution.
On a personal note, I would like to congratulate the IIEC for holding a successful poll, the government for ensuring the security of Kenyans thus far, and most importantly my fellow Kenyans for participating in this historic event, and doing so with harmony.
This poll has exhibited the real spirit of the nation as peaceful people, and disbanding the image placed over us by the global audience during the last general elections.
Kudos Kenya!
The President, Prime Minister and Vice- President were all present at KICC (Kenya International Conference Centre) as attention shifted from the IIEC headquaters at 5.15 p.m
The elite trio were to address Kenyans at 4 p.m. However, they delayed their speech to the public in the hope of the results being finalized.
With the YES team winning with 2.5 million votes at 5 p.m, it was widely believed they had won the referendum day voting; a belief confirmed at 8 p.m
The registered number of voters totaled to 12 million- 71% of whom voted during the poll. The YES team emerged victorious, accumulating 5.94 million votes while the NO team gathered 2.68 million as of 7 p.m.
Prime Minister Raila Odinga led the country in celebrating in the new constitution. However, he did underline that this is by no means a victory for only the YES group, but the nation as a whole. He further emphasized that it is now time for the nation to work together to make the Constitution work for the benefit of the country.
NO campaign influential member, Mr. Ruto concedes defeat in the poll- not in the building of the nation. In his address to the media, he underscored the importance of a meeting between the two parties to reach an agreement on the contentious issues surrounding the new Constitution.
The President has two weeks to which he has to put pen to paper in approval of the Constitution.
On a personal note, I would like to congratulate the IIEC for holding a successful poll, the government for ensuring the security of Kenyans thus far, and most importantly my fellow Kenyans for participating in this historic event, and doing so with harmony.
This poll has exhibited the real spirit of the nation as peaceful people, and disbanding the image placed over us by the global audience during the last general elections.
Kudos Kenya!
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
ALL EYES ON KENYA
It is here- the date circled by many Kenyans on their calender. It is the day day people take to the polls to have their final say on the future of the nation.
Voting for the the proposed Constitution commenced at 5 a.m. with 27,000 polling stations being set up; some stations experiencing a delay due to unforeseeable transportation hiccups.
All in all, queues have been long and consisted of many eager voters. The ambiance at polling stations was tranquil. Hope filled the faces of many voters.
The government has tightened security around the country, with each polling station overlooked by the police.
The media along with influential members of the government have commended the public for carrying out voting in such a harmonious manner.
Polling stations are meant to close at 5 p.m, with some stations staying open for a while longer in order to accommodate the lost time due to the hiccups.
Both camps seem to be confident on the outcome of th result. One thing to bear in mind is that this is no competition but the foundation to a better future. Irrespective of the outcome of the votes, peace has to prevail.
Let us hope for the best. I will be back with the results of the votes tomorrow. Till then, have a blessed day!
Voting for the the proposed Constitution commenced at 5 a.m. with 27,000 polling stations being set up; some stations experiencing a delay due to unforeseeable transportation hiccups.
All in all, queues have been long and consisted of many eager voters. The ambiance at polling stations was tranquil. Hope filled the faces of many voters.
The government has tightened security around the country, with each polling station overlooked by the police.
The media along with influential members of the government have commended the public for carrying out voting in such a harmonious manner.
Polling stations are meant to close at 5 p.m, with some stations staying open for a while longer in order to accommodate the lost time due to the hiccups.
Both camps seem to be confident on the outcome of th result. One thing to bear in mind is that this is no competition but the foundation to a better future. Irrespective of the outcome of the votes, peace has to prevail.
Let us hope for the best. I will be back with the results of the votes tomorrow. Till then, have a blessed day!
Saturday, July 31, 2010
SHAME ON YOU PASTOR TERRY JONES
Good afternoon!
Let me first begin by apologizing for my lack of input in the blogsphere. The last week has been really hectic for me, with dozens of assignments to hand in along with revising for my end of semester exams. The Internet connection too wasn't on my side.
As i browsed through websites to get in touch with the outside world, i came across what i must say is a sickening article. I have nothing against the reporter, but everything against event being covered.
"Church plans Quran-burning event" by Lauren Russell, posted on the 31st of July, 2010 on CNN.
The article revolves around the portrayal of "Islam is of the devil". In this article, i picked up two unspeakable quotes by Pastor Terry Jones.
"We believe that Islam is of the devil, that it's causing billions of people to go to hell, it is a deceptive religion, it is a violent religion and that is proven many, many times."
"I mean ask yourself, have you ever really seen a really happy Muslim? As they're on the way to Mecca? As they gather together in the mosque on the floor? Does it look like a real religion of joy?"
What is even more disappointing is that it comes from a Pastor of a Church- a title depicted by in-depth knowledge on religion, humble, peaceful and righteous individual.
The comments he made about Islam as a religion are shocking and offending to all Muslims. The naivety and ignorance of the Pastor is highlighted, along with his total disrespect to a religion followed by millions of poeple.
The core of this issue is tied down to the September 11 attacks on America. Even since, Islam as a religion has been scrutinized by many.
Why are we being singled out as terrorists? Why then are Muslims subjected to thorough investigations upon an act of terrorism being carried out?
Let me draw some similarities between Christianity and Islam.
They both have Religious scripts that are followed by millions of believers.
Just like Christianity, Islam has also split into sects depending on different beliefs and interpretations of their respective Scripts.
Both religions are connected together through the time of one Prophet, Jesus as the Christians call him. However, their beliefs split when the Muslims believed that the man on the cross wasn't the prophet, and that he had ascended to the Heavens, where as Christians believed that indeed Jesus was crucified.
Both religions have their do's and don'ts.
These few yet significant similarities suggests that both religions come from one religion a long time ago, before their beliefs split.
There is no right or wrong religion-everyone is entitled to their own beliefs. We must also respect each other irrespective of their beliefs, and must not undermine each other as we dive into discussions pertaining to segregation rather than integration.
Just because some Muslims have been involved in crimes, that does not give society the right to criticize his religious beliefs, branding it "devil". Some people have different interpretations of their Holy scripts. It comes down to the Religious books and how an individual interprets it. Criticizing the interpretation, though hurtful, is much better than criticizing the Religious book and its history.
Freedom of worship is highly recommended, and can be augmented by withdrawing from hate-speech against religions.
I would like to take this opportunity to express my disappointment in the Pastor for his comments, as well as his disrespectful act of holding such an event. Muslims and Christians too are deeply disappointed at the act of ignorance portrayed.
Let me first begin by apologizing for my lack of input in the blogsphere. The last week has been really hectic for me, with dozens of assignments to hand in along with revising for my end of semester exams. The Internet connection too wasn't on my side.
As i browsed through websites to get in touch with the outside world, i came across what i must say is a sickening article. I have nothing against the reporter, but everything against event being covered.
"Church plans Quran-burning event" by Lauren Russell, posted on the 31st of July, 2010 on CNN.
The article revolves around the portrayal of "Islam is of the devil". In this article, i picked up two unspeakable quotes by Pastor Terry Jones.
"We believe that Islam is of the devil, that it's causing billions of people to go to hell, it is a deceptive religion, it is a violent religion and that is proven many, many times."
"I mean ask yourself, have you ever really seen a really happy Muslim? As they're on the way to Mecca? As they gather together in the mosque on the floor? Does it look like a real religion of joy?"
What is even more disappointing is that it comes from a Pastor of a Church- a title depicted by in-depth knowledge on religion, humble, peaceful and righteous individual.
The comments he made about Islam as a religion are shocking and offending to all Muslims. The naivety and ignorance of the Pastor is highlighted, along with his total disrespect to a religion followed by millions of poeple.
The core of this issue is tied down to the September 11 attacks on America. Even since, Islam as a religion has been scrutinized by many.
Why are we being singled out as terrorists? Why then are Muslims subjected to thorough investigations upon an act of terrorism being carried out?
Let me draw some similarities between Christianity and Islam.
They both have Religious scripts that are followed by millions of believers.
Just like Christianity, Islam has also split into sects depending on different beliefs and interpretations of their respective Scripts.
Both religions are connected together through the time of one Prophet, Jesus as the Christians call him. However, their beliefs split when the Muslims believed that the man on the cross wasn't the prophet, and that he had ascended to the Heavens, where as Christians believed that indeed Jesus was crucified.
Both religions have their do's and don'ts.
These few yet significant similarities suggests that both religions come from one religion a long time ago, before their beliefs split.
There is no right or wrong religion-everyone is entitled to their own beliefs. We must also respect each other irrespective of their beliefs, and must not undermine each other as we dive into discussions pertaining to segregation rather than integration.
Just because some Muslims have been involved in crimes, that does not give society the right to criticize his religious beliefs, branding it "devil". Some people have different interpretations of their Holy scripts. It comes down to the Religious books and how an individual interprets it. Criticizing the interpretation, though hurtful, is much better than criticizing the Religious book and its history.
Freedom of worship is highly recommended, and can be augmented by withdrawing from hate-speech against religions.
I would like to take this opportunity to express my disappointment in the Pastor for his comments, as well as his disrespectful act of holding such an event. Muslims and Christians too are deeply disappointed at the act of ignorance portrayed.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Upon finishing part of my weekend work on campus, i decided to brush through the newspaper.
Voting on the proposed draft constitution is around the corner, and as expected, it hogged the content of the paper. I could not help but reflect on how the media has stirred up alot of interest on this issue. True, it is a serious issue that concerns all Kenyans, but does it really deserve all the media attention it gets?
I for one feel that though 4th August will be the day many Kenyans have been dreaming of. However, i stand against the use of media in educating the population on this topic. We are well aware that the media is run by the group of elite, however this doesn't give them the right to use the media to paint their view of reality.
Everyday i go through the newspaper, watch telly or listen to the local radio stations, there is always some advert on the draft constitution. I feel that the power of media has been abused so as to cater for the personal needs of the big shots. The media has begun setting agendas, and not for the right reasons.
Ads on telly, radio and the papers either support or reject the draft constitution, and base it on two aspects; portraying either the negative side of the opposition, or highlighting the positive side of their stand on this contentious issue.
The media highlights these differences mainly to the advantage of the elite, who abuse media by using it as a tool for propaganda. They intelligently frame it so that in co-operates the interest of the people in order to rally support for their hidden motives.
If only there was a media house that would call a spade a spade and kick out the charade that has found its way into making such an important decision. Media houses should emerge truly as the servant to the masses and clearly state the pros and cons of the new constitution. Media ownership is the main reason for such adverts, but that discussion is for another day.
Your views are highly appreciated.
Voting on the proposed draft constitution is around the corner, and as expected, it hogged the content of the paper. I could not help but reflect on how the media has stirred up alot of interest on this issue. True, it is a serious issue that concerns all Kenyans, but does it really deserve all the media attention it gets?
I for one feel that though 4th August will be the day many Kenyans have been dreaming of. However, i stand against the use of media in educating the population on this topic. We are well aware that the media is run by the group of elite, however this doesn't give them the right to use the media to paint their view of reality.
Everyday i go through the newspaper, watch telly or listen to the local radio stations, there is always some advert on the draft constitution. I feel that the power of media has been abused so as to cater for the personal needs of the big shots. The media has begun setting agendas, and not for the right reasons.
Ads on telly, radio and the papers either support or reject the draft constitution, and base it on two aspects; portraying either the negative side of the opposition, or highlighting the positive side of their stand on this contentious issue.
The media highlights these differences mainly to the advantage of the elite, who abuse media by using it as a tool for propaganda. They intelligently frame it so that in co-operates the interest of the people in order to rally support for their hidden motives.
If only there was a media house that would call a spade a spade and kick out the charade that has found its way into making such an important decision. Media houses should emerge truly as the servant to the masses and clearly state the pros and cons of the new constitution. Media ownership is the main reason for such adverts, but that discussion is for another day.
Your views are highly appreciated.
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