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One common feature in all refrigerators all over the world is the white interior, which plays a key role in the functionality of home appliances.

Notably, white interiors have been adopted by all manufacturers over the years, especially in the 1950s when many households in Europe were adopting food-preserving technology.

Some manufacturers have also settled on shiny reflective interiors for the interior of deep freezers.

However, despite the differences, the interior plays the same role that entails reflectivity, hygiene and temperature control.

A photo of a woman using a fridge at night.

Photo

Well + Good

Reflectivity

One of the main reasons why fridge interiors are white is because white surfaces are reflective when light hits them.

This comes into play when the fridge is placed in a dark room or during the night.

While all fridges have an inbuilt light that turns on when the door is opened, one can see through all corners and access food as the white interiors reflect the light.

Hygiene

Manufacturers often choose white interiors primarily for hygiene purposes. 

It is easy to spot dirt and food spillage on a white surface as compared to a dark shade surface. This, therefore, makes it easy for an owner to know what sections of the fridge need to be cleaned.

Maintaining hygiene in a fridge is notably important due to the potential risks associated with poor hygiene, such as the threat of bacterial infections. 

Some of the products that can be used in cleaning a fridge include liquid soap and vinegar.

Additionally, white interiors convey an impression of cleanliness, which can be reassuring to customers. 

Temperature control

White surfaces reflect heat rather than darker colours, contrary to black ones. 

Given its function of preserving food items, the interior of the fridge has to be at low temperatures at all times to prevent any bacteria from developing in the food.

Eating infected food can lead to diarrhoea and vomiting, according to health experts. 

"The refrigerator comprises of a thermally protected compartment and a warmth siphon that moves energy from within the chiller to its outside condition so that within the refrigerator is cooled to a temperature beneath the room temperature.

"The lower temperature brings down the generation pace of microorganisms, so the refrigerator lessens the pace of waste. Consequently, a refrigerator keeps up a temperature a couple of degrees over the point of solidification of water," Eco-Fridge, a UK manufacturer company, explained on its website.

A photo of frozen food stored in a fridge.

Bosch

Supermarkets have one important goal, to make money.

While they sell an array of products to consumers, some of them are perishable—for example, groceries, drinks, and other food products.

To ensure that perishable products do not go bad on the shelves, supermarkets run various campaigns to encourage customers to purchase the products.

A photo of a supermarket in Nairobi, Kenya.

Photo

HerBusiness

Prices

Foods closer to their expiration date are usually put on a quickfire sale and their prices are reduced if much of the product is still in stock.

This is necessary because once the products go bad, the supermarkets usually toss them out, leading to losses.

In some instances, slow-moving products may attract discounted prices which is typically geared at clearing stock and salvaging profits.

Stores will often move products near the billing counter or front rows, to give them visibility and entice customers to pick them up off the shelves.

But while consumers scoop the products, how safe are they for consumption?

“Best By,” “Use By” and “Sell By” Dates

Consumers often confuse the meaning of these and other similar terms, using them interchangeably. 

However, there are some notable differences.

According to global food safety organisations, "Best if Used By/Before" denotes the period when a product will be of the best quality or flavor. This does not indicate a purchase or safety date.

“Sell-by” informs the seller how long to display the product for purchase. It also does not denote a safety date.

On the other hand, “Use-by” indicates the last date recommended to consume the product while at peak quality. 

Are Such Products Safe for Human Consumption?

A “use-by” date is related to food safety while a “best-before” date is about the food quality, according to the UK Food Standards Agency.

This means that you should not eat food after the “use-by” date because it could make you ill, regardless of whether it looks good or smells okay.

Since the “best-before” date is about quality, food past such a date is safe for consumption but it may not be of the best quality.

Kenyans.co.ke spoke with nutritionist Lucy Chege who affirmed that caution should be taken concerning foods past the expiration date.

“Best-before" indicates the period of optimum quality, where food may still be safe to eat after this date but might lose flavor or texture,” said Lucy.

“However, "use-by" denotes the date until which food remains safe to consume. In these cases, it's best to tread on the side of caution and discard items past their "use-by" date to avoid health risks,” she continued.

The Sale of ‘Almost-expired’ Products

Based on these definitions, a UK-based retailer, Approved Food, has specialized in selling products that are near or beyond their “best-before” date.

The founder of Approved Food, Dan Cluderay, got into the business when he noted that most retailers find it difficult to sell foods whose dates are past the labeled dates.

The company has over the years advocated for better public education concerning the meaning of these labels, noting that retailers throw away food unnecessarily because consumers do not know how to interpret the labels.

The company maintains that consumers are attracted to their products due to the lower prices.

Thus, while you may pick a product close to the “best-before” date from the supermarket shelf, it is important to store the food properly to ensure safety, regardless of the date.

Maize flour stacked at a supermarket.

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Kilimo News

With the advancement of technology, car manufacturers are finding new ways of providing solutions to drivers who experience different challenges when driving.

As the automobiles market continues to become more cutthroat, various manufacturers are finding new ways to remain competitive including introducing new features.

From steering wheel adjustment knobs to anti-glare rearview mirrors, these functionalities are aimed at ensuring that drivers are comfortable when cruising on the road. They are also geared at preventing road accidents.

However, most motorists do not know of these features exist as they are typically placed in hidden parts of the vehicle.

Kenyans.co.ke takes a look at these features and how they can help you when driving a vehicle.

A photo of a wrench which allows motorists to adjust a steering wheel.

Photo

WapCar

Adjustable Steering Wheels

Most vehicles are designed using the standard height of human beings. However, motorists often desire to adjust the steering wheel to lock in  a more comfortable driving position.

Unknown to many, drivers can adjust their steering wheels using a knob usually located around the steering column - just below the steering wheel.

While some vehicles have knobs, others have a wrench that can be pulled out to allow a driver to adjust the steering wheel.

In most vehicles, the steering wheel can be pulled up - closer to the driver's space.

Some steering wheels can also be lowered or lifted.

Anti-Glare Mirror 

The rear-view mirror is one of the most important components of a vehicle as it helps a driver monitor vehicles behind them.

Notably, during the nighttime, when motorists are driving with headlights on, the driver can easily become distracted especially if they have an eyesight problem.

Therefore, vehicle manufacturers install a black wrench under the rearview mirror which can be used to turn on the antiglare function. The wrench acts like a switch and is turned on by adjusting it forward.

A photo of a rearview mirror with the antiglare knob (circled in red).

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Car and Driver

Motorists are, however, advised to be careful when the antiglare function is on as they may underestimate the distance of the vehicle behind them.

Fuel Tank Indicator

While driving a new vehicle, struggling to determine the position of the fuel tank - whether located on the right or the left is common.

As such, car manufacturers have a fuel tank indicator at the fuel gauge on the dashboard.

However, in Kenya, most vehicles have the fuel tank on the left side. The positioning is informed by the need to protect drivers in case of an accident. 

A photo of a petrol attendant fueling a car on February 2020.

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Ma3Route

Double allocation of land by the lands Ministry is the most common method through which Kenyans lose their land, a new survey has revealed.

The National Crime Research Centre (NCRC), in Baseline Study on Land-Related Crimes and Offences in Kenya report released on Wednesday, showed that over 36.5 per cent cases reported in the past year were due to multiple allocations of land which resulted in confusion over the validity of title deeds.

Per the survey, 484 cases of double allocation were reported in the past year, followed by removal of land beacons with 418 cases, trespassing on private land (411) and forging of land documents (307).

A signpost indicating that the parcel of land is for sale.

Photo

Realtor.com

Other ways used by fraudsters include altering land maps (292 cases), conspiracy to defraud (278), issuance of fake titles (229) and occupying and selling of land without authority (228 cases).

The report further attributes the increase in land-related cases to landowners who are not present.

"From the finding of this study, it is highly likely that the issue of absentee landlords could be in part, the opportunity to the would-be criminals of land-related crimes and offences. It is imperative that land owners be sensitized on routine inspections of their parcel of land for purposes of ascertaining the condition of ownership and also the boundaries beacons," read part of the report.

The report also cited an informant from the National Government Administration in Kisii County, who mentioned that landowners who travel abroad frequently become targets of land-related crimes.

"In this county there have been cases where land owners went abroad and the care taker poses as the land owner thus oversees fraudulent sale of the land. Influential people collude with brokers and land officials to transfer land illegally," he said.

From the findings of the survey, it also emerged that corrupt government officials (NGAOs, land officials, judiciary, ministry of land), land brokers, family members, private surveyors, corrupt advocates and some politicians formed part of the fraudsters who were frequently involved in the crimes.

Cases involving land brokers led with 41.4 per cent, followed by family members (39.7 per cent), neighbours (35. 1 per cent) and corrupt land buying company officials (21.9 per cent).

Others included land developers (12.9 per cent), political leaders (10.2 per cent and corrupt advocates (10.1 per cent).

Entrance of Ardhi House along Ngong Road in Nairobi.

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Ministry of Lands

Despite being land owners, a majority of Kenyans still lack title deeds, which has been cited as a major problem especially at a time when land grabbing cases are on the rise.

According to a report by the National Crime Research Centre, only 37 per cent of land owners in Kenya have title deeds.

The low number is alarming with experts questioning why these section of Kenyans fail to follow up to have their documents processed.

However, the report specifically points out that it is not the land owners' fault, and instead apportioned the blame on the government.

A photo of land under development in Kenya.

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Real Estate Kenya

"Lack of proper legal documents may not entirely be blamed on an individual because registration of title in the land throughout Kenya as per article 67 (2) (c) of the Constitution of Kenya is an obligation of the government," reads part of the report.

The report further points out that some landowners are relying on other forms of documentation to prove ownership such as a written will, lease, share certificate, allotment letter, and sale/purchase agreement.  

Per the report, the  percentage of land owners with the above documents is 2.5 per cent, 1.4 per cent, 19.0 per cent, 11.3 per cent, and 11.4 per cent respectively.

According to the National Lands Commission draft advisory report published in 2018, less than 30 per cent of Kenya's total area is registered.

"Approximately 4.06 million title deeds were registered countrywide accounting for 8,346,081.99 hectares of land registered," reads the report in parts.

The Report of Baseline Survey on Land Related Crimes Kenya recommended that the relevant state departments and agencies expedite the process of land registration and issuance of land ownership documents.

In the report, it was disclosed that most Kenyans acquired land by either through buying or inheritance. Other ownership channels cited in the report include; gifting or payment through leasing.

"The study established that the majority of land owners were locals (70.8 per cent), whereas 29.2 per cent were non-locals who acquired land in the locality," read the report in parts.

Further, the report unearthed a gender imbalance in the control of productive assets such as land, citing that men are highly favoured in developing countries like Kenya in relation to land ownership.

Entrance of Ardhi House along Ngong Road in Nairobi.

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Ministry of Lands

In African society, culture is the heartbeat of our passion. It's our song, our dance, our story. It unites us, fuels our spirits, and paints our lives with vibrant colours.

As Africans, we embrace our culture with passion because it embodies our identity, represents how we have been socialised, and anchors us in rich traditions.

It's a source of pride, resilience, and belonging, inspiring us to preserve, celebrate, and pass down our heritage to the generations yet to come.

Even so, it is instructive to note that African culture is slowly being eroded as black people within the continent increasingly warm up to Western mannerisms.

Although those in rural settings have largely kept the spirit of African culture alive, their counterparts in urban areas have over the years gradually moved away from certain traditions, in favour of a more modern and flashier lifestyle.

However, there are those traditions that wealthy Africans, and more specifically, elite Kenyans have stuck to.

Kenyans.co.ke takes a look at some of them.

Traditional Marriages & Ruracios

Very few traditions embody Kenyan love culture like traditional marriages. 

Ask any Kenyan about ruracio, and their eyes will light up as they describe the event.

One captivating aspect of the tradition involves a blindfolded man, seeking a woman's hand in marriage, identifying his future bride from a group of women, including the lady's relatives.

Ruracios are not merely ceremonies; they are vibrant celebrations, brimming with joy and familial bonds.

This tradition marks the commencement of a promising journey with one's dream partner, signifying the first step toward a bright and harmonious future together.

When its affluent families involved, the event is even more glamorous.

For instance, the family of Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi went all out during his daughter Maryanne Mudavadi's traditional wedding held on September 16.

The colourful event was attended by several senior politicians and prominent personalities 

Maryanne was getting married to lawyer Nyaga Karanja in a traditional Kuara Itara wedding ceremony.

The Kuara Itara traditional wedding is a popular custom in the Kikuyu Community and is done to allow the bride's family to see their daughter's nesting place being done at the groom's home.

Photo of Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi and daughter Maryanne Mudavadi with her spouse Nyaga Karanja during her wedding in Vihiga August 2023

Photo

Musalia Mudavadi

Another perfect example of how prominent families go big on traditional marriages is the case of former President Uhuru Kenyatta's eldest son Jomo who wedded the love of his life Fiona Achola on April 8, 2018.

The wedding was so secretive that no photos were allowed.

Before the actual wedding, the two had held a traditional wedding ceremony in 2016 where Achola got a warm reception at Uhuru’s rural home in Ichaweri, Gatundu, Kiambu County.

Achola was formally handed over to the Kenyattas by her mother, Ruth Omamo. 

The event was graced by the presence of her aunt, former Defence Cabinet Secretary Rachelle Omamo.

From the Kenyatta side; Beth Mugo, Kristina Pratt, Nyokabi Muthama, Anna, Pip, and Christine Gakuo also attended. 

Achola was escorted to her new home by her relatives, marking the joyous occasion.

Housewarming

Once a man successfully completes the construction of his home, it is a common tradition in many cultures to celebrate this achievement by hosting a housewarming ceremony. 

In modern-day society, it is customary for guests to bring symbolic gifts such as salt, wine, and bread to the event.

Guests typically feast on food provided by the host, emphasising the community's support and togetherness during such occasions.

One event that captured this perfectly was the housewarming of Citizen TV journalist Stephen Letoo held on October 13, 2023. in Kilgoris, Narok County. 

Photo of Stephen Letoo and Chemutai Goin during a housewarming party in Narok on October 13, 2023

Photo

kenyans.co.ke

Letoo, fondly referred to his Thanksgiving ceremony as "Letoo Day." 

To mark this momentous occasion, the journalist slaughtered 5 bulls.

Circumcision 

Circumcision by virtue of being a rite of passage is a big deal in traditional African society.

For a parent, nothing quite puts a smile than seeing their son finally become a man and finally take the first step towards fending for themselves.

Take the case of National Assembly Deputy Speaker Gladys Boss Shollei who heaped praises on her son in December 2022, after he successfully underwent this stage of life.

Shollei thanked God for guiding her son through the entire process which usually takes ten days.

"With a heart filled with praise and thanksgiving, I celebrated my son's Korom Arap Shollei coming of age. His journey into manhood is complete," Shollei said in a statement.

Photo of Triki Mask Dancers in Vihiga

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Ministry of Youth Affairs,the Arts and Sports

Chanting for the Dead

The phrase 'lets pay our last respects' is the perfect way to think about why people celebrate the lives of their kin or loved ones after they pass away.

However, people do this differently. Some pray or cry while others invite community members to share good stories about those who have passed away.

One unique way that the Kenyan elite celebrate the deceased is to chant for them.

This is particularly common in the Luo community.

The chant according to Luo elders, is a preserve for fallen greats, including political leaders, coveted industrialists, decorated sportspeople, and religious leaders, among other respected members of the society.

Photo of Raila Odinga attending Professor George Magoha's funeral in January 2023

Photo

Brian Amwai

ODM leader Raila Odinga chose a popular Luo dirge to mourn former president  Daniel Moi at the late Head of State's burial service held at Kabarak University Grounds on Wednesday, February 12, 2020. 

He also honored Kenya's third president, Mwai Kibaki with a chant during the latter's burial ceremony.

Blessing of Elders

Although most Kenyan politicians have taken advantage this tradition for expedience, it is still one of the most cherished among the elite.

Howso?

Rewind to 2012, when Mt Kenya elders held prayers at State House shortly before former President Mwai Kibaki vacated the house on the hill. 

The rationale behind the event was to bless the premises before Kenya's 4th President Uhuru Kenyatta took over.

Both Kibaki and Kenyatta came from the Mt Kenya region. The elders believed that blessing State House was a good omen that would bring good luck to the latter throughout the course of his Presidency.

Photo of Attorney General Justin Muturi During his Coronation

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KNA

Deputy President Gachagua also held a one-of-a-kind blessing ceremony when he took oath of office.

Eldoret-based Kikuyu elders also endorsed President William Ruto as their preferred presidential candidate in the buildup to the 2022 general election.

Praying Facing the Mountain

In his legacy book; Facing Mt. Kenya, Kenya's founding father Jomo Kenyatta intimated that praying while facing Mt Kenya was a sure way of getting what you yearn for and seek.

The Kikuyu thought the light from the mountain was a manifestation of their God’s power, “Utheri” as such, Kenyatta believed that Mt Kenya was sacred.

The same tradition has been carried over for generations.

In January 2023,  Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua trekked to Mt Kenya and prayed while facing the mountain, which he believed would bring an end to the country's drought and set the country on a course towards prosperity. 

Photo of DP Rigathi Gachagua Praying facing Mt. Kenya January 2023

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DPPS

After the prayers, Gachagua revealed that he prayed to God for increased rainfall and a plentiful harvest for Kenyan farmers.

Bullfighting

Bullfighting is a very common tradition in Western Kenya.

The Luhyas believe the tradition promotes peace among communities, distinguishing it from the Spanish corrida de toros where humans confront bulls.

In Kakamega bullfighting, the animals engage in combat instead of people.

Kakamega Senator, Boni Khalwale is a lifelong enthusiast of the tradition and has even adopted the nickname Bull Fighter.

The event also presents an opportunity for the two strongest bulls to showcase their talents and make their owners a tidy sum.

Photo of a Bullfighting match in Kakamega

Photo

DPPS

A fridge is one of the most basic household items you will find in a Kenyan home. The kitchen appliance comes in different sizes and shapes and helps households preserve cooked and uncooked food and cool beverages.

However, there are challenges that come along with owning and using these electrical appliances. 

Some of the common hygienic challenges experienced by people who own fridges over several years include; foul smell, food stains, and dirty fridge door rubbers.

Kenyans.co.ke looks at a few simple ways you can clean your fridge using everyday home products such as tea bags and vinegar.

A collage image of EPRA stickers on refrigerators.

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Smell

Over time, fridges tend to develop a foul smell due to food spoilage, often caused by temporary power outages or existing bacteria within the fridge.

The unpleasant odour is typically noticeable the moment the fridge door is opened. To address this issue, apart from removing spoiled food items, one can effectively eliminate the smell using common cooking ingredients such as used tea bags and baking soda.

For instance, placing used tea bags in a container inside the fridge for three days can absorb the bad odour, leaving the fridge with a fresh scent. 

The tea bags should be replaced every 3 days to maintain the desired effect. Similarly, baking soda can be utilised using the same method, but it needs to be replaced after 24 hours.

Alternatively, soaking a piece of dry cloth in vinegar, placing it on a dish, and keeping it inside the fridge can also help neutralise the foul smell. The cloth can be removed once the unpleasant odor dissipates.

Stains

Fridge interiors, typically white, often get stains due to food spillage, posing a challenge in terms of cleaning.

A practical solution involves using a mixture of hot water, vinegar, and dish soap. 

To employ this method, combine a teaspoon of vinegar with a litre of hot water, adding a few drops of liquid soap. 

Dip a dry cloth into the solution and gently rub it over the stained area. 

For more stubborn stains, a toothbrush can be used to scrub the affected area before drying it thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel.

It's crucial to note that during the cleaning process, the fridge must be turned off and disconnected from the power socket to ensure safety and effectiveness.

A photo of frozen food stored in a fridge.

Bosch

Door Rubber Mould/ Dirt

With prolonged use, fridge door rubbers are prone to accumulating dirt and mould, potentially posing health risks.

To address this issue, dipping a piece of cloth in alcohol and using your finger to run the soaked cloth along the rubber can effectively remove the dirt and mould, ensuring a cleaner and safer fridge environment.

Loose Door Rubber

Alternatively, if the door rubber is loose, using a blow dryer can help restore its grip and prevent air from entering the fridge. 

When air seeps inside due to a loose door, it creates an environment conducive to bacterial growth, leading to food spoilage.

Removing Ice

Instead of resorting to a knife to remove ice buildup in the freezer, a practical approach involves placing hot water in a sufuria and closing the freezer door for approximately 30 minutes. 

This method allows the ice to melt away without risking damage to the freezer walls.

Crucially, it's essential to disconnect the fridge from power during any cleaning or maintenance activity to prevent the risk of electrocution, ensuring a safe cleaning experience.

A photo of ice on the walls of a freezer.

Photo

Fred's Appliance

As Kenyans brace for themselves for El Nino, projected to begin later this month all through to December, many motorists are wary of the impact the rains will have on their daily commute and whether or not, the torrents will negatively affect their cars in any way.

This comes in the backdrop of expectations that flooding could be witnessed in some parts of the country, should the rains overwhelm the drainage systems put in place by the various county governments.

It is also instructive to note that motorists are also wary of stagnant water which may cause great damage to engine and the interior of a vehicle.

In light of these facts, Kenyans.co.ke takes a look at car parts that need to be checked before and during the El Nino to ensure optimal vehicle performance.

A photo of floods at Nyayo roundabout in Nairobi on March 23, 2023.

Photo

KeNHA

Wipers 

Checking the condition of vehicle wipers is vital, particularly before and during El Niño or rainy seasons. 

Wipers play a crucial role in maintaining clear visibility by removing raindrops from the windscreen. 

If the wipers are not functioning properly, it is essential for motorists to visit a garage and replace the wiper blades promptly.

Driving without proper visibility can result in accidents and significant costs, emphasizing the importance of this simple yet crucial maintenance task.

Batteries

During adverse weather conditions like El Niño, it's crucial for motorists to inspect their vehicle's battery. 

Although most vehicles are equipped to shield the battery from water exposure, it's essential to confirm that the battery is in optimal condition. 

This precautionary measure helps prevent situations where the car might fail to start unexpectedly. 

Some drivers take it a step further, proactively preparing for heavy rains by acquiring a new car battery in anticipation of potential issues with the old one.

Headlights

In the context of El Niño, it's essential for motorists to pay attention to their headlights. 

Headlights are especially critical during the rainy season as they serve as signals to other drivers, preventing potential accidents by indicating the presence of nearby vehicles. 

Additionally, headlights enhance visibility, aiding drivers in avoiding obstacles like pillars.

Motorists must ensure that their headlights are in proper working condition. If a damaged bulb or defective wiring is detected, it is advisable to promptly consult a mechanic for necessary repairs.

Brakes 

Effective brakes are essential, especially during a situation such as El Niño, when roads can become chaotic due to heavy rainfall.

Brakes play a crucial role in enabling motorists to avoid collisions with other vehicles and pedestrians. 

Ensuring the brakes work efficiently and can be engaged promptly is essential for road safety.

If any issues with the brakes are detected, it's imperative to visit a garage for a checkup. 

During the inspection, it's also important to have the mechanic examine the brake fluid, a critical element in the proper functioning of the brakes. 

This proactive approach guarantees that the brakes remain reliable and responsive, promoting safer driving in challenging weather conditions.

A photo of a motorist removing a car battery from a vehicle for a checkup.

Photo

One Stop Garage

Driving Practice

During flooding situations, it is strongly recommended to refrain from driving through flooded waters. Waiting for the rain to subside before starting a journey is the safest course of action.

Driving through flooded areas poses risks, including the danger of a vehicle being swept away by the rushing water, resulting in huge losses.

Additionally, it's wise to keep an extra fully charged phone in the car for emergencies, allowing individuals to call for help if they find themselves stuck in floodwater. 

Verifying emergency contact information and ensuring an up-to-date insurance cover are also essential steps to mitigate potential losses during flooding incidents.

Haiti police are said to be one of the world's underfunded, understaffed, corrupt, and ill-equipped forces. 

In fact, Haitian police, in early 2023, resorted to demonstrating for their well-being while demanding their grievances be addressed. The officers blocked roads, torched tires across Port-au-Prince and seized vehicles while demanding tougher crackdowns on influential and violent gangs.

They also called an end to Prime Minister Ariel Henry's reign -  an incident that has never been witnessed in Kenya.

Thus, Kenya's decision to deploy 1,000 police officers to quell violence in Haiti and restore law and order was met with mixed reactions. 

Protestors fill the streets of Port-au-Prince, Haiti on July 20, 2023.

Photo

VOA

As the international community led by the United Nations warmly embraced Kenya, human rights activists and security stakeholders condemned what they argued was a controversial and impulsive decision. 

The activists questioned Kenya's preparedness to handle geographical, language and cultural barriers, among other challenges.

With scarce answers and a lack of clarity, the Kenyan government finds itself under pressure to justify why it accepted the UN's plea to send local police to the Caribbean nation, whose economy has collapsed and 60 per cent of the nation's capital, Port-au-Prince, is under the control of criminal gangs.

Questions also arose on whether the Kenyan police can go toe-to-toe and successfully subdue the Haitian gangs that have dominated the nation since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021.

The recent gang-related violence in Haiti forced over 3,000 officers to leave the police service in the past two years, with the officers fearing for their lives. 

Out of this, an estimated 15,498 officers remain on duty, according to a statement released by Francisco Occil, Haiti's police spokesperson, in February 2023.

As apprehension grows regarding whether Kenyan officers will be up to the task, Kenyans.co.ke takes a look at the disparities between the two police services. 

Qualifications

To enrol in the Kenya Police Service, recruits must hold a Kenya National Identity Card, have a minimum qualification of D+ in the KCSE examination, and be between 18 and 28 years old.

They must also be physically, mentally and medically fit and have no pending criminal case.

On the other hand, Haiti police officers are required to appear for an entrance examination to be held at the departmental offices and demonstrate knowledge of general subjects such as Geography, History, Mathematics and writing ability.

The candidates are shortlisted after they prove that they are Haitian citizens between the ages of 18 and 30 years and have a minimum height of between 1.6 metres and 1.67 meters for women and men, respectively.

The candidate should also have a clean criminal record and possess a minimum intellectual level in grade nine exams.

Weapons

There has been a growing concern that Haitian police lack modern equipment and vehicles, hampering their ability to counter criminal activities. 

However, critics counted this perspective, arguing that the officers need a robust government to assert authority and enact better policies rather than purchase more weapons and upgrade the police force. 

The officers are normally equipped with hoods, flak jackets (sleeveless jackets made of heavy fabric reinforced with metal to protect against bullets) and automatic weapons.

In Kenya, the police are supplied with sophisticated guns including Spanish-made CZ Scorpion EVO 3 A1 airsoft rifles, Belgian-made FN SCAR rifles and German-made G3 and MP5 rifles.

Questions, however, linger on whether Kenya's firepower can overpower Haitian gangs who have access to high-powered rifles.

One of the reasons that also led to the rise in the criminal networks in the nation was the infiltration of the gangs within the police service, which was attributed to the government's failure to protect the officers, leaving them outgunned and overpowered.

An armed gang in Haiti.

Photo

PBS

Salary

Low-grade officers in Haiti are paid less than Ksh30,000 a month, leading to the majority reportedly colluding with the gangs to earn a better living.

On the other hand, a newly recruited police officer earns a monthly salary of Ksh21,645, while a long-serving constable gets between Ksh38,975 and Ksh40,354.

The push by the Kenyan government to solve the crisis in Haiti is perceived as a daring move as no other country, including the United States, has in the past been able to contain the situation. 

Over the years, Haitian Prime Minister Henry had requested international military support to aid the government in regaining control of the territory from the gangs, but the Western nations were reluctant.

Months later, Kenya's Foreign Affairs Ministry announced that 1,000 officers would be sent to the nation to assist in battling the criminal gangs. 

The United Nations Security Council ratified the decision. Additionally, the US pledged Ksh14.5 billion for the mission, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken assuring that the Joe Biden administration is keen on ensuring the mission is successful.

Kenya Red Cross has advised Kenyans on how to keep safe during heavy flooding, expected during the El-Nino rains.

The Kenya Meteorological Department projected that most parts of the country will receive above average rainfall for the rest of the year.

In anticipation of the floods, 400 households in low-lying areas in Isiolo County have been advised to move to higher ground to avoid losses caused by flooding.

Kenyans are thus on high alert due to the possible disastrous effects of flooding, as witnessed in the late 1990s El-Nino.

Members of the Kenya Red Cross at a past training exercise

Photo

Red Cross

According to a report prepared for the United Nations, the 1997/1998 El-Nino rains caused devastating consequences due to unpreparedness. 

2,000 people died and many more were displaced. Millions of livestock perished from disease, hunger, and drowning.

The rains also caused a massive landslide near Kibwezi market along the Nairobi-Mombasa highway. The landslide damaged about three kilometers of the highway separating Mombasa from the rest of the country. 

At the Mombasa port, loaded containers were submerged in the floods.

Safety During Floods

Communication from the Kenya Red Cross outlines the following measures to help mitigate the effects of flooding:

• Evacuate immediately to elevated areas in case of flooding
• Avoid walking or driving through flood waters
• Do not underestimate the water level. Just six inches of moving water can knock you down. Just one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
• Do not drive over a bridge that is flooded
• Avoid parking or activities along streams and rivers during heavy rainfall
• Avoid areas with collapsed power lines and muddy waters where power lines may have fallen
• In a flooded area, use a stick to test the depth
• Follow information from designated media houses to stay updated on the rains and flooded areas
• Switch off electricity at the main switch if house is flooded. Disconnect gas supply.
• Do not go home or to disaster areas until it is declared safe
• Avoid drinking unsafe water
• In case of emergency, you can call 1199, the Redcross Emergency Hotline.

A photo of homes destroyed by floods in Joska, Machakos County in December 2019.

Photo

Vinny Radak