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East African Leaders Snub Kenya’s 60th Jamhuri Day
Kenya’s 60th Jamhuri Day celebrations, a momentous occasion commemorating independence, were marred by a significant absences: the heads of state from neighboring East African nations. While warm partnerships and camaraderie are typically hallmarks of the region, presidents Yoweri Museveni (Uganda), Samia Suluhu (Tanzania), Evariste Ndayishimiye (Burundi), and Paul Kagame (Rwanda) were conspicuous by their lack of attendance.
President Ruto’s invite was accepted by only two regional leaders: Sahle-Work Zewde (Ethiopia) and Hussein Mwinyi (Zanzibar). The remaining presidents sent representatives, with Suluhu citing devastating floods in Tanzania as the reason for her absence. However, Museveni simply stated through his deputy that he “was not able to attend,” leaving the reason ambiguous.
This lack of presence by regional leaders raises concerns about the current state of East African Community affairs, casting a shadow over the “firm relationship” touted between President Ruto and his counterparts, suggesting deeper tensions simmering beneath the surface.
The timing of these absences is particularly telling. President Suluhu’s recent remarks about investors choosing Tanzania over Kenya due to the “fire” in the neighboring country further highlight perceived friction. Similarly, President Museveni’s decision to cut fuel reliance on Kenya and source directly from refineries abroad adds fuel to the speculation of discord.
DP Gachagua slams Chinese Dominance, Demands Local Jobs On Rail Project
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua Friday issued a strong call for Chinese contractors working on Kenyan projects to prioritize local employment opportunities for young people.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Riruta-Ngong Commuter Rail Line, Gachagua stressed the importance of ensuring local communities benefit directly from such infrastructure developments.
“I want the contractor and project manager to ensure the local youth get jobs in this project,” he declared, addressing the assembled crowd. “Can these Chinese hear me? I saw them lined up to greet President Ruto, and I noticed there were so many.”
Gachagua’s remarks were a direct response to the perceived influx of Chinese workers on Kenyan projects. He emphasized that Kenyans are capable of constructing the railway themselves and should be given the opportunity to do so.
“These Chinese should only be three: the company owner, chief engineer, and chief accountant to pay the workers on Saturday,” he said. “All the other jobs should be given to the local youth.”
President William Ruto, who also attended the ceremony, echoed Gachagua’s sentiments, urging the contractor to prioritize local hiring. This call comes amidst growing concerns about the impact of foreign labor on Kenyan employment opportunities.
The Riruta-Ngong Commuter Rail Line is a major infrastructure project aimed at easing traffic congestion in the Nairobi metropolitan area. The project is expected to create thousands of jobs during construction and upon completion.
Gachagua and Ruto’s demands for local hiring represent a shift in policy and a potential challenge for Chinese contractors accustomed to bringing in their own workforce.
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