Kenya needs Change!

The food, water, and energy crises in the country are threatening to throw into jeopardy the economic and social development agenda. The unrelenting vampire of corruption in both private and public institutions is equally detrimental to our economic and social fabric.

Ethnic politics is still a major obstacle in postering peace and tranquility in our beloved country. There is a sheer lack of nationhood and common purpose among most of our leaders. In the midst of this crisis, valuable lessons have been learnt. We now need to change course.

The Chinese have it that crisis has the face of danger and opportunity. It would be dangerous if we do not move fast to address the destruction of Mau Complex and other wetlands. Our food crisis will escalate if we do not subsidise farm inputs for both small-scale and large-scale farmers. The environmental disaster we are currently facing will soon claim lives if we do not urgently commence a multi-faceted tree planting program.

Corruption will stagnate our economic growth if we do not suffocate the arteries and veins that engender it. Ethnicity will polarise this country in years ahead if we do not address it now. Something has to give.

However, we have an opportunity to make a positive change out of the mess we have created ourselves.The stage is set for this country to look straight into its political, social, environment, and economic problems.

The government should orchestrate elaborate environment, food, and water policies that will make the attainment of the 2015 Millenium Development Goals and actualization of Vision 2030 a reality.

Change will mean that Kenyans are assured of a normal supply of water, food, and electricity, and can participate in a violence-free electoral process. It is possible to create a better Kenya for Kenyans.

Chris

(Article published in The Standard 14th August, 2009)