Kenya Set for Dazzling New Year’s Eve Fireworks CelebrationsNarok’s Loita Area Advances Gender Equality in Land Allocation

Mombasa, Kenya – Kenyans are gearing up for grand New Year’s Eve celebrations, with fireworks displays planned across the country to welcome 2024. A survey conducted by the Kenya News Agency (KNA) in Mombasa reveals that numerous entertainment venues, recreational parks, and churches have organized a variety of activities for the event.

According to Kenya News Agency, GTC/AVIC is planning a spectacular Sh 150 million New Year’s Eve fireworks display, set to be launched from their building. The show, choreographed by Jays Pyrotechnics, is drawing considerable excitement among Kenyans, eager to witness this historic event.

John Mureithi, a Nairobi resident vacationing in Mombasa, expressed his enthusiasm for the celebrations. “I will spend New Year’s Eve with my family at the newly refurbished Mama Ngina Water Front, looking forward to capturing the moments,” he said.

Mombasa Deputy Commissioner Ronald Mwiwawi assured heightened security throughout the island during the festivities. He warned that those caught robbing others would be dealt with severely according to the law. In a press briefing at Mama Ngina Water Front, Mwiwawi appealed to the locals to maintain their reputation for kindness and hospitality towards visitors and the less privileged.

Charles Kitula, the organizer of the Mombasa International Festival (MIfest), shared that the festival has been running various activities since Christmas Day, culminating in the New Year’s Eve celebration. “Holidaymakers should expect abundant entertainment, delicious coastal cuisines, and a showcase of cultural heritage,” Kitula said, encouraging Kenyans to participate in large numbers.

Narok, Kenya – In a groundbreaking move, the Maasai community in the Loita area of Narok South is experiencing a significant cultural shift with women receiving equal land shares as men in the recent land subdivision. This marks a historic departure from the community’s traditionally patriarchal norms.

According to Kenya News Agency, The area Public Health Officer, Mirriam Nkirote, addressed the media about the land allocation, stating that the community has long been defined by gender disparities. The latest development, however, represents a new era of empowerment for women, challenging long-standing traditions and paving the way for positive societal change.

Mama Noontomon Simel, a village elder from Kisokon area, shared her personal story of empowerment. With her newly acquired land, she now sees a brighter future for her children, especially in terms of education. “I can now send my children to school without worrying about discrimination. This land represents a new beginning for my family,” she expressed.

The change in land ownership dynamics is providing women like Mama Noormaai Punke, another beneficiary, with newfound agency and a voice in community affairs. Punke emphasized the importance of women’s roles beyond homemaking, stating that the equal land shares allow them to have a say in matters affecting the community.

This shift is particularly significant in a community where decision-making has historically been male-dominated. With tangible assets, women’s voices are now being acknowledged and valued.

The community has struggled with issues like female genital mutilation (FGM) and early marriages. Both women, who have not received formal education, believe the change in land ownership will be a catalyst for challenging these harmful practices. “Education is key to ending practices like FGM and early marriages. When women are educated, they become agents of change,” Noontomon said.

Ms Gladys Mokompo, a member of the land adjudication committee, embodies this shift in dynamics. Her involvement in decision-making processes marks a significant stride towards gender inclusivity in leadership roles within the community.

The Loita ward comprises Morijo, Entasekera, Ilkerin, Olmesuti, and Olorte sections. It is notable for being the only area in Narok County where residents have historically lived on communal land. The recent development, where women in the Maasai community are receiving land equally with men for the first time, is expected to reduce violence against women in the county.

During the launch of the Morijo Sub section land adjudication exercise, Deputy Director in the Directorate of Land Adjudication and Settlement, Michael Irungu, explained that each beneficiary would receive 8 to 15 acres of land. He praised the community’s decision to allocate land equally, noting that families in polygamous settings would receive larger portions to accommodate each wife’s share.

The land adjudication process is anticipated to conclude in mid-2024, with residents receiving their title deeds. A community forest will be managed under the Community Land Act, while individual lands will fall under the Land Adjudication Act.

Narok South Deputy County Commissioner Felix Kisalu highlighted the significant number of women in the land register, a result of the community’s polygamous nature. He commended the community for its progressive stance on gender equality. “The empowerment of women through land allocation is expected to reduce Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in the area,” he said.

The Loita land is known for its agricultural productivity and traditional livestock rearing, making this development even more impactful for the community’s economic and social progress.