Here below is a screenshot of the post from the Permanent Presidential Music Commission (PPMC) as appeared on Embu County Government Facebook page:
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| Embu County Staff Choir auditions to perform at the forthcoming Madaraka Day celebrations in Embu. PHOTO: Jeremiah Mutuanga |
The Commission is a government department whose mandate is to coordinate music and dance activities in the country and spearhead the development of the same from mere entertainment activities into a stable industry. In this regard, its members have for the better part of the week crisscrossed the county vetting talented residents.
The exercise, which has been ongoing all through the five sub counties commenced on February 14 and ends on 19th. It involves auditions for members of the public who would wish to perform at the Madaraka Day celebrations to be held in Embu on June 1, 2023.
One of the most spectacular shows happened at the Embu Talent Academy on February 18 whereby a wide variety of artistes from various backgrounds was auditioned.
Over a hundred talented people showcased their art, all with the hope of getting selected to entertain the nation, come the big day.
Reports on the ground are filled with praise for Governor Cecily Mbarire and her government, who has successfully lobbied for the national event to be celebrated in Embu this year.
"sasa maono ya Cess imeanza kufikiana", (now Cess's vision is coming to fruition) confessed Jane Mwangi, an Embu based musician, referring to Embu Governor in her fond name (Cess).
As a result of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, a number of artists are likely to spring to stardom hence uphold our cultural heritage, pass across positive vibe and provide income for scores of households.
The opportunity had been advertised widely and in an open manner so that public participation was observed.
Speaking to this reporter at the venue, the Chief Officer for Sports and Youth Affairs, Pithon Muchoki marvelled at the diversity and extensity of talent in his homeland unbeknown to him before.
"Now what these artists need is professional managers to guide them in the showbiz industry and help market their talent. We shall see to it." He said
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| Embu County Department of Health, stakeholders mark the International Epilepsy Day on 13 February 2023. PHOTO: Jeremiah Mutuanga |
The County Executive Committee (CEC) member for Health Francis Ndwiga, representing the governor, was joined by Medical Services Chief Officer (C.O) Jane Mwaniki, senior government officials and other stakeholders in the exercise before addressing the public at ETRH. In her speech, the C.O said that it was time to embrace change as we work towards attainment of the Universal Health Coverage Agenda.
Speaking at the venue, the County minister appreciated Doctors without Borders (MSF) who were the main sponsors, together with Embu and Mbeere South NCD CBOs for observing the principle of inclusivity.
"Strengthening community health and financial protection of the special population of about 500 persons affected by non communicable diseases is collective responsibility", he said, adding that a multi-sectorial program to Track, Trace and Treat, dubbed 'Afya Mashinani' was on the way.
Touching on the county government's commitment to end conflict between service and business, Ndwiga said that Governor Cecily Mbarire is very keen on the welfare of health workers.
He cited data collection, drugs availability, staff welfare and community-led information dissemination as key in achieving the objectives.
"This is an opportunity to reflect on how we can serve the people and enable them to live healthy", he wrapped it up while emphasizing the need to scale up Level 2, 3 and 4 health facilities.
County Government paves way for Madaraka Day celebrations in Embu, takes business closer to the people
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| Residents of Majimbo in Embu attend a Public Participation forum on upcoming development projects in the area. PHOTO: Courtesy |
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he County Government of Embu is getting set to host Madaraka Day celebrations 2023. The national event is scheduled to take place at Embu Stadium on 1 June, whereby President William Ruto is expected to be present.
In this regard, traders who had priory operated from around the venue have been relocated to various places in the outskirts of town. The County Executive, working hand in hand with the County Assembly has together carried out a Public Participation exercise with the aim of informing the locals on the goodies lying ahead for them.
Embu Mbeere (EMBE) Transporters’ Sacco, an organization dealing in transportation and sale of sand have been operating from part of the area that is to be renovated for the purpose of the national event. It is to this end that the Department of Lands, Mining, Housing, Physical Planning and Urban Development held the function.
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| CEC member for Lands, Mining Housing Physical Planning and Urban Development Raymond Kinyua (center) alongside his counterpart in Finance Prof. Joe Kamaria (left), area MCA Hon. Murithi Kobole and Chief Officers from the department at the function. PHOTO: Courtesy |
Embu County Governor Cecily Mbarire was represented by the County Executive Member for the department; Raymond Kinyua accompanied by his counterpart in Finance, Prof. Joe Kamaria. With them was the County Assembly Leader of Majority, who happens to be the area MCA, Hon. Murithi Kobole. Also present were Chief Officers Benjamin Mutisya and Peter Njagi together with Departmental Directors and other County Government officials. EMBE Sacco Chairman, Jackson Gachagua and his Committee were not missing, either.
Scores of residents who had attended the fete were sensitized on the benefits they stand to gain through the new development. They were made to understand that with the delocalization of the sale of building materials, there was an opportunity for such small businesses as food kiosks and shops to get established. Employment for jobless youth will also be availed and everyone will stand to gain.
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| Young men using narcotics. PHOTO: File |
Speaking at a Public Participation function in Kirimari Ward at the Embu Talent Academy, Mbarire was reacting to a report by area MCA Hon. Ibrahim Swaleh that he had information on who the narcotics dealers are.
As much as the people highlighted main areas whose development needed to be included in the County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP) for 2023 to 2027, drug use and addiction was singled out as the 'virus' eating up the young generation.
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| Governor Cecily Mbarire addresses the public at the event held on 27 January 2023 |
"We strongly condemn these individuals who destroy our youth for their selfish benefit." She said.
In an emotional outburst, the county CEO cursed the drug suppliers and sellers swearing that this wrath shall go a long way to affect the perpetrators of the illicit trade together with their children and future generations.
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| The people listen keenly to the governor at the Embu Talent Academy |
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| Embu governor H.E Cecily Mbarire shakes hands with Administration Officers during the Public Participation exercise. PHOTO: Courtesy |
The exercise was aimed at sensitising stakeholders on the functionality of the County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP), and listen to their views on the same.
Key among areas mapped out for development is Education, Agriculture and Water supply. Other concerns raised revolved around Health, Youth affairs, Roads, Lands and Housing as well as Trade and Tourism.
On Education, establishment of more Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE) centers was prioritized. Electrification and equipping of Vocational Centers (VTC) were also cited as areas that need funding.
As for Agriculture, the people requested additional support for Extension services and the return of government-sponsored Artificial Insemination (A.I) services.
Construction of more earth dams and expansion of the market for macadamia, bananas, mangoes and avocados was also proposed. Fish farmers were neither left out as interested parties lobbied for capacity building for the farmers.
Upgrading of health facilities and establishment of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) was topmost among proposed remedies for the ailing health sector and youth unemployment respectively.
While speaking to the people, the governor pledged, "We are coming to a place near you."
