Together for Taita: Igniting Change and Uplifting Our Community on X

 As Kenya navigates one of the most choreographed political moves by Zakayo—Abraham, as he calls himself, the "father of the nation"—it seems this Abraham has yet to hear the Lord's voice. He hasn’t seen the sheep, but he’s already made the sacrifice. Kenya Kwanza stands at the edge of a precipice, teetering towards chaos. Deputy Gachagua claims to be a truth-sayer, but his politics have only fueled division. His angry rhetoric, tinged with revenge, seems to forget that he no longer represents just one region but all of Kenya. Leadership demands more than divisive speeches—it calls for unity and vision, something he has sorely lacked.

In our motherland, Taita Taveta, a different revolution is stirring—not in the political arenas but among us, the people. Taitas on X, the revolutionaries ready to risk their lives for change, are stepping forward. We might not all agree on the leaders we’ve chosen, but leadership should never be about bias. It should be about lifting the whole community. When a leader is only appreciated by a few, it’s a clear sign of failure.

We are not a land of poverty; we are a county rich in resources—agriculture, livestock, minerals, tourism. Yet, time and time again, our leaders have failed us. Taita Taveta boasts one of Africa's largest national parks, covering nearly 22,000 sq km, yet we still struggle with basic development. For too long, we have depended on politicians who leave us until the next election year.

But we, the people, have the power to make a difference. As we work separately from politics, let us not forget that politics done the right way—accountable and transparent—can unlock the vast resources we need for lasting change. We cannot put this entirely in the rearview mirror. Instead, we must focus on educating ourselves and our kinsmen on what to look for in leadership. We can only make political change when we unshackle ourselves from the handouts that keep us bound.

Here’s where we start:

  1. Preserving Our Water Catchment Area
    Water is life, and our agricultural lands depend on it. Without rain, there’s no food, and water rationing once a week simply won’t cut it. Why hasn’t Tavevo moved toward bulk water supply and infrastructure development? Separating from Coast Water would empower us to manage our resources, allowing even small kitchen gardens to flourish.
  2. Livestock Rearing
    Taita’s beef is known for its quality, but how many can afford the cost of raising cattle? In areas like Mgeno, goat farming is thriving, but it’s small-scale due to water shortages and the invasion of Somali camels that damage grazing lands. Where are the community-based organizations that could help young farmers market their products?

We need a groundswell of ideas that will uplift our youth. Opportunities are out there, but they need to be shared. Job openings, markets for produce, partnerships—we need to share these at no cost. For those rearing livestock or growing crops, let your fellow Taitas know. And for those who can connect us to buyers and resources, do the same. The Voice of Taita Taveta is ready to assist in changing lives.

This isn’t just about politics; it's about community empowerment. When we build strong economic foundations, we can break free from the chains of political handouts. And when the time comes, we will make political changes that serve us, the people—not a few privileged individuals.

As Chávez once said, “Once you educate the people, you cannot make them unlearn.” We have seen the future, and the future is ours. They think we don't see. But we are faceless, and yet, we see.

Gods of Taita Taveta, let’s make it in our own image. Next Thursday, stay tuned for our next episode. We are now on Facebook @Alve Mwaregha.

For any queries or information, reach out to us at Voice of Taita Taveta @doctalve or email doctalve@gmail.com.

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