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Check FAQAbout Dominic
Dominic Kirui is a Nairobi-based freelance journalist with a distinguished career in reporting on social and cultural issues, particularly in the realms of public health, gender inequality, and community development within Kenya. His work has been featured in prominent publications such as Thomson Reuters, News Deeply, Equal Times, The Epoch Times, WAF Magazine, Civic Ideas, ITWeb Africa, and African Arguments. Kirui's journalism often brings to light the struggles of marginalized communities and the various efforts to improve their circumstances. Kirui's investigative prowess is evident in his coverage of sensitive topics such as Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) among the Maasai in Kajiado and the advocacy for contraceptive use in West Pokot county, which challenges traditional Catholic beliefs. He has also reported on the health risks for women in the artisanal gold mining industry and the community-led sanitation improvements in Narok County. His articles have underscored the importance of initiatives like microfinance in reducing exploitative practices, the role of education in prisons, and the impact of climate-smart agriculture on food security. Beyond his written work, Kirui maintains an active presence on social media platforms, engaging with his audience through Twitter at @Domie_Kirui and connecting professionally via LinkedIn. His commitment to journalism is not only reflected in his extensive portfolio but also in his efforts to foster dialogue and share insights on pressing issues affecting Kenyan society and beyond.
English
Swahili
Portfolio
Davido samples ugali and omena courtesy of Dennis Ombachi
Nigerian musician Davido enjoyed Kenyan cuisine, sampling ugali and omena prepared by former rugby player and online chef Dennis Ombachi during his visit to Nairobi. The occasion was captured in a video where Ombachi introduced Davido to the dish, which the singer appreciated. Davido, who performed at the Raha Festival 2024, follows Ombachi's cooking content to support his wife's culinary interests. Ombachi gained popularity by sharing his cooking experiences online, especially during the Covid season.
Kenya postpones its plan to deploy police officers to Haiti after the resignation of Ariel Henry
Kenya has suspended its plan to deploy 1,000 police officers to lead a United Nations peacekeeping mission in Haiti following the resignation of Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry. The decision came amid domestic criticism and a ruling by the Supreme Court of Kenya declaring the deployment unconstitutional due to the lack of mutual agreements between Kenya and Haiti. Kenyan President Wiliam Ruto has contested the court's decision. The suspension will remain until a clear administration is established in Haiti. Security analyst Haggai Chogo and Nairobi resident Susan Mukami expressed concerns about the deployment, citing legal and domestic priorities. Haiti has been experiencing gang violence since the assassination of former President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021, and the situation worsened with recent police station burnings and prison breaks.
Restoring Dignity: Kenyan Women Receive Free Corrective Surgery to Overcome Obstetric Fistula
In Bungoma County, Kenya, women are overcoming the stigma and physical challenges of obstetric fistula through free corrective surgery. Obstetric fistula, often resulting from prolonged labor without proper medical care, leads to incontinence and social isolation. The UNFPA and FIGO recognize the condition as a severe childbirth injury and a symbol of global inequality. Bungoma governor Ken Lusaka and organizations like Amref Health Africa support the initiative, which has restored dignity to many women. During a week-long camp, 49 women received surgery, education, and recovery advice. The lead surgeon, Dr. Weston Khisa, advocates for better care and education to prevent fistula, which is largely preventable and has been eradicated in developed countries.
Safaricom hastens Kenya public digital transformation
Safaricom has partnered with the Lake Region Economic Bloc to drive digital transformation in 14 counties around Lake Victoria, Kenya. The partnership aims to leverage technology solutions to unlock economic potential in the region, which is home to 14.9 million people. The myCounty App, developed by Safaricom, will be used to digitize municipal services. Lucille Aveva of Safaricom emphasized the importance of collaboration with government entities, while LREB chairperson Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o highlighted the role of technology in effective governance.
In Kenya, women trade sex for fish, but new schemes offer a lifeline
In Abimbo village, Kenya, women like Rachel Atieno have traditionally engaged in 'jaboya', a practice of trading sex for fish, due to poverty and lack of income. This practice is prevalent in Siaya County, which has a high HIV prevalence rate. However, Atieno and others have found an alternative through Challenge Africa's 'table banking' initiative, which provides small loans and financial training to women. This has enabled them to start and sustain their own businesses without resorting to 'jaboya'. The article also touches on the local gold mining industry, where women like Millicent Omondi work to supplement their income. Challenge Africa's efforts aim to improve financial security and reduce HIV transmission by eliminating the need for sex-for-fish transactions.
Education vs. Female Genital Mutilation: A Maasai Community's Struggle
The article by Dominic Kirui focuses on the practice of Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) among the Maasai community in Kajiado, Southern Kenya. It highlights the story of Angela Rampei and her family, who have chosen education over traditional practices, including FGM/C. The article discusses the cultural significance of FGM/C within the Maasai community, the challenges in fighting the practice, and the role of women in both perpetuating and combating it. It also mentions the efforts of organizations like the Anti-FGM Board and World Vision Kenya in addressing the issue, as well as the legal stance of Kenya against FGM/C. The article includes perspectives from various stakeholders, including local leaders, activists, and community members, and touches on the generational divide in attitudes towards FGM/C.
Kenyan Women Risk Lives Crushing Gold Ore with Mercury to Survive
The article reports on the hazardous conditions faced by women working in the small-scale Osiri-Matanda gold mine in Kenya. These women are exposed to toxic mercury when they use it to extract gold from ore, a process that poses serious health risks. The article highlights the plight of Eunice Atieno and Beatrice Ondieki, who have suffered health problems due to mercury exposure. Despite the health risks and Kenya's 2016 mining act that outlaws mercury use, miners continue to use it due to a lack of alternatives and awareness. IPEN's research shows high levels of mercury in tested women, and the organization advocates for education, health assessments, and the adoption of non-mercury gold extraction methods. The Minamata Convention on Mercury aims to reduce mercury use, but Kenya has yet to ratify it. The United Nations Environment Programme and the Global Environment Facility are working to promote safer mining technologies in Kenya and other countries.
Vodafone to Sell M-Pesa Holding Company for a Dollar
Vodafone Group is set to sell M-Pesa Holding Company Limited to Safaricom for $1, with the transaction including short-term investments worth €1,247 million and €1,226 million due to M-Pesa customers. MPHCL acts as an independent trustee for M-Pesa customers, administering the trust and holding funds for their benefit. Profits from MPHCL are used for public charitable purposes, and the sale is expected to complete by July 2023. M-Pesa, a joint venture between Vodacom Group and Safaricom, is a leading mobile money platform in Africa with over 50 million customers and processed $364.8 billion in transactions over the past year.
Elephants on the rampage: Can insuring Kenyan farmers keep the peace?
In Kenya, human-wildlife conflict is escalating as elephants from Tsavo National Park, affected by drought, destroy crops in search of food and water. A new insurance scheme, developed by the International Institute for Environment and Development and implemented by AB Consultants, aims to provide rapid compensation to farmers for crop damage. The project, also piloted in Sri Lanka and Malaysia, seeks to encourage coexistence by easing financial burdens. The scheme is faster than current Kenya Wildlife Service payouts and may become subsidized by the government. Education and non-violent deterrents, such as beehives provided by Save the Elephants, are also part of the effort to mitigate conflicts.
Can Kenya's youngest MP candidate take the climate fight to power?
Anita Soina, a 22-year-old climate activist and member of the Maasai community, is running for a parliamentary seat in Kenya's general elections, aiming to become the youngest MP in the country's history. Her campaign focuses on accelerating climate action, leveraging her experience as an environmental advocate and author. Soina's platform includes local solutions like tree planting and promoting recycling in her constituency. Her candidacy is supported by the Green Thinking Action Party and resonates with Kenyans, especially the youth, who are dissatisfied with the current pace of climate policy. Political analysts and supporters believe her youth and focus on climate issues could be advantageous in Kajiado County, where drought affects the livelihoods of the pastoralist population.
Nigeria’s Mono sets up in Kenya as part of East Africa expansion
Nigerian Fintech startup Mono has established operations in Kenya to expand into East Africa, leveraging open banking for financial and identity data services. Kenya's advanced mobile money ecosystem and customer base present a significant opportunity for Mono. The company has conducted a pilot in Kenya and aims to provide infrastructure for businesses to join the internet economy. Mono, which has participated in Y Combinator and secured funding, sees Kenya as a strategic market for its Mono Connect API and other services.
Resistance To Antibiotics And Other Drugs A Global Concern
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant global health threat, with the World Health Organization declaring it one of the top 10 public health threats. Misuse and overuse of antimicrobials in humans, animals, and plants are driving the development of drug-resistant pathogens. The Food and Agriculture Organization estimates 700,000 annual deaths from AMR infections, and by 2050, drug-resistant diseases could cause 10 million deaths per year. In Africa, over-the-counter availability of antibiotics has led to widespread resistance. Efforts to combat AMR include improving drug labeling, agricultural extension services, and public education on the dangers of using antibiotics without a prescription. World Antimicrobial Awareness Week promotes global awareness and action against AMR.
Automating access: Vending machines bring safe, cheap water to Nairobi slums
In Nairobi's Mukuru slum, residents have faced a water access crisis for years, with high costs and polluted water from informal vendors. The Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company is installing token-operated water vending machines to provide clean water at a fraction of the cost. The project, supported by the local non-profit Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO), has seen success in Kibera slum and aims to combat water cartels and improve health and safety, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The initiative is sustainable, covering maintenance and electricity costs, and is protected from cartels by community volunteers and an aerial water network.
They were sentenced to death. Got law degrees in prison. Then got free.
The article discusses the African Prisons Project (APP), an initiative that provides legal education to inmates in Kenya and Uganda. Founded by Alexander McLean, the APP partners with the University of London to offer law courses to prisoners. Willis Ochieng', a former inmate, benefited from this program, earning a law diploma and degree, which enabled him to argue for his release in court. The APP has had a significant impact, with 115 paralegals, 17 law graduates, and 15 law students working in 30 prisons. It helps inmates access justice in a system where legal support is scarce, and many are unable to afford lawyers. The program is now looking to help graduates take bar exams to become fully-fledged lawyers. The story of Ochieng' and another former inmate, William Okumu, highlights the transformative power of education and the opportunity for a fresh start after incarceration.
In Kenya, Having a Child With Cerebral Palsy Can Mean Losing Your Job
The article discusses the challenges faced by parents, particularly mothers, of children with cerebral palsy in Kenya. It highlights the story of Mary Mwikali, who lost her job and marriage after her daughter, Naomi Njoki, was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. The article cites a study by the Orion Foundation, which found that most caregivers of children with cerebral palsy in Kenya are mothers who often have to leave their jobs. It also notes the lack of public awareness and support for families affected by cerebral palsy. The Cerebral Palsy Society of Kenya (CPSK) is mentioned as an organization that provides support and therapy for people with cerebral palsy. The article calls attention to the need for better implementation of disability rights legislation and government support for caregivers of children with disabilities.
Kenyan Women Find Health and Freedom with Solar-Powered Water Jerrycans
In Emuchimi, Kenya, Eunice Shigali uses a Solvatten jerrycan to purify and heat water using solar power, saving time and reducing the need for firewood. Solvatten, a Swedish social enterprise, has been providing these jerrycans to improve access to clean water in 20 countries. The device uses heat and UV light to kill bacteria and includes a fabric filter. It was invented by Petra Wadstrom, a renowned environmentalist. The jerrycans are distributed at a subsidized cost by Soroptimist International and are also used by companies like Lofbergs to improve health conditions for their workers. Solvatten aims to reach one million users by 2020, promoting better health and independence, especially for women in developing regions.
The Kenyan Church Leader Who Became a Family Planning Champion
In West Pokot county, Kenya, a Catholic catechist, Isaiah Silikelion, is advocating for contraceptive use and family planning despite the traditional Catholic stance against modern birth control methods. Silikelion, who grew up in a large family, has witnessed the challenges of raising many children and aims to educate the community on the benefits of having fewer, well-spaced children. He collaborates with local hospitals and health clinics to spread this message. The article highlights the resistance from men in the community and the high fertility rates in West Pokot, but also notes the positive changes that have occurred since the introduction of family planning education, such as reduced child and maternal mortality rates, decreased infidelity, and economic empowerment of women.
Kenyan Man Breaks Taboo, Builds Pit Latrines for Villagers
John Yegon, a resident of Botoret village in Narok County, Kenya, has taken on the mission to improve sanitation in his community by constructing pit latrines for each of the 95 households in his village. This initiative came after learning about the health risks associated with poor sanitation, including open defecation. The United Nations Resident Coordinator in Kenya, Siddharth Chatterjee, emphasizes the importance of sanitation for public health. World Vision Kenya reports significant economic losses due to poor sanitation practices in Kenya. Botoret village has been certified Open Defecation Free (ODF) by the Ministry of Health, and other villages and counties are also making progress towards this status. The Kenya Sanitation and Hygiene Improvement Program (KSHIP), funded by the UN and implemented by various organizations including Amref Health Africa and Caritas Ngong, supports these efforts. Yegon's work extends to schools, ensuring handwashing systems are in place. The community has seen health improvements and reduced absenteeism in schools due to these efforts.
Can Kenyan farmers combat food insecurity with climate-smart agriculture?
The article discusses the importance of agriculture in Africa, particularly in Kenya, where a significant portion of the population relies on it for livelihood and employment. It highlights the training programs in Kiliku village, Machakos County, where farmers are learning climate-smart agriculture (CSA) techniques such as zai pits to improve food security and manage resources sustainably. The article also mentions various initiatives and policies, like Kenya's National Policy on Climate Finance and the World Bank-backed Kenya Climate-Smart Agriculture Project, aimed at increasing productivity and resilience to climate change. The challenges of food insecurity and the potential of CSA to mitigate these issues are explored, with insights from experts and policy advisors. Additionally, the article touches on the African Green Revolution Forum and Greenpeace Africa's Food For Life campaign, emphasizing the need for investment in smallholder farmers and agro-ecological farming to achieve food security and enhance farmer livelihoods.
Daily Grind: Women Stone Crushers Feed Demand for Construction in Kenya
The article discusses the rise in demand for new housing in Kenya's provinces, particularly in Kisii, due to political instability. Women, traditionally confined to household roles within the Gusii community, are increasingly participating in artisanal mining to provide gravel for construction. Gladys Nanzala and Rose Nyanchama are highlighted as examples of women who have taken up this labor-intensive work to support their families amidst the rising cost of living. The article also touches on the dangers of mining, the lack of awareness of safety laws among miners, and the potential for changing gender roles as economic pressures necessitate new sources of income for women.
Women in Kenya work to keep girls in school by supplying reusable sanitary pads
In Kenya, many women and girls struggle to afford sanitary products, with two-thirds unable to purchase them, leading to missed school days and other challenges. The Women Development Centre (WODEC) in Uasin Gishu County has responded by making reusable sanitary towels from local materials. WODEC, supported by a financial grant from the Dutch organization Via Water, sells these pads at a low cost and has donated them to vulnerable women and girls. The Kenyan government has also been involved, with President Uhuru Kenyatta signing legislation to provide free sanitary towels to girls in public schools. However, the supply is limited, and many girls still face difficulties. Civil society organizations and activists are concerned about the sustainability of the government's efforts and suggest partnerships with groups like WODEC. The article also touches on the broader issues of menstrual hygiene communication and the involvement of men in these discussions.
Gold-For-Sex is increasing in the mining regions of Kenya
The article focuses on the plight of women in the gold mining community of Wagusu Beach, Siaya County, Kenya. Susan Akinyi, a widow and mother of three, relies on gold mining as her sole income source, often resorting to 'gold-for-sex' exchanges with miners to obtain better quality stones. This practice is a modern iteration of 'Jaboya', a survival sex trade historically involving fish-for-sex in the region. The article highlights the severe HIV/AIDS epidemic in Siaya County, exacerbated by such practices, with infection rates significantly higher than the national average. Local health officials like Benard Okoth emphasize the need for increased awareness and condom use, despite cultural beliefs that discourage protection. The article also touches on the perspectives of miners like Jackson Omondi, who feel no remorse for participating in the gold-for-sex trade. The high value of gold has attracted many women to the mines, leading to increased sexual exploitation and health risks.
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