MT. KENYA TIMES Uhuru's Government of National Unity
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The
MT. KENYA TIMES
Where Investors Get Returns
SAT/SUN May 16-17, 2020
www.mtkenyatimes.co.ke No. 0003 mountkenyatimes themtkenyatimes
Uhuru’s Government
of National Unity
Page 3
Towards a Living Income for Kenya records 23 new Covid-19
Kenyan Coffee Farmers cases, total rises to 781
Page 2 Page 9
2 | NATIONAL SAT/SUN May 16-17, 2020| The Mt. Kenya Times
Coffee >> ... such farmers earn a paltry Kshs 10,000 per year against their living income of Kshs 150,000
Towards a Living Income for Kenyan Coffee
Farmers
way in alleviating penury for more
than 6 million Kenyans who depend
on the coffee sector. However,
the answer to development of an
economic viable coffee sector in
Kenya is undergirded by possibility
of farmers earning a living income
which is different from poverty
alleviation which seems to be the
focus of the recent policies in the
sector.
The difference between a
living income and poverty lines
is the additional income required
for a decent standard of living
which is beyond the traditional
povertydefinition on basic
subsistence and survival.For this to
be successful, we need a sector-wide
data-driven approach to determine
living-income gaps by farmers in
every coffee farming county. This in
fact is an exercise which should be
carried out by County governments
which currently hold most of the
roles on coffee production as per the
2019 Coffee Regulations. Already,
living income benchmarks exists
for some counties but it is not
harmonized in such a way that it can
efficiently guide agricultural policy.
The next question will then be
A coffee farmer harvesting coffee. Photo Courtesy whether the small-scale coffee
farming as it is currently is
By: Brian Gicheru working at the behest of global What coffee farmers in Kenya economically viable. Is it in a
Since the formation of a investment banks. experience is poverty by design position to earn farmers a living
Summary presidential taskforce on Coffee In this case, a coffee farmer is just thanks to unequitable coffee income? Obviously, it’s not as
• Currently, the more Reforms in 2016 there has been an like a pawn in a coffee chess game markets and effective corrective the break-even point for small-
than 600,000 coffee farm- avalanche of initiatives and policies whose essence stops immediately actions towards this will go a long scale coffee farming is 3kgs/tree
ers in Kenya cannot dare to to overturn the persistent coffee coffee leaves their farm. How they (dependent on the number of trees
depend on coffee farming to crisis in Kenya. This has also seen produce it and the pains they go per hectare) whereas most farmers’
pay their bills and have to an injection of not less than Kshs through, that is not the business of production is below this in some
engage in diversified farming 4.5 billion from the government all the big boys at the air-conditioned instances being as little as 0.13kg/
practices to earn a living. in hope that coffee farming turns Coffee exchange floors. The C The next question will tree. Unfortunately, most farmers
This is caused by the fact that into a lucrative venture it’s meant to price is majorly influenced by then be whether the small- have 200 to 300 coffee bushes
coffee trades in very complex be. Althoughit’s too early to judge the worldwide coffee supply and scale coffee farming as it is cultivated on 0.1 to 0.3 hectares of
international market set-ups. the effectiveness of these initiatives demand but more importantly by currently is economically land. It is for this reason that such
The prevailing market price in achieving their desired output, the predicted price of future coffee- viable. Is it in a position farmers earn a paltry Kshs 10,000
for coffee at any given time, their success will be determined based on a myriad of financial to earn farmers a living per year against their living income
commonly known as the “C by the policies’ ability to move the derivatives. Unfortunately, between income? Obviously, it’s not of Kshs 150,000 and ultimately,
price” is determined at New Kenyan coffee commodities market 1982 and 2018 the C price dropped as the break-even point for poverty becomes a norm.
York and London interna- towards practices that contribute a by 27% .However, during the same small-scale coffee farming Therefore, let the government
tional coffee Exchanges. living income to a producer. period, roasted coffee in countries is 3kgs/tree (dependent utilize the Kshs 1.5 billion coffee
Currently, the more than 600,000 such as USA experienced an average on the number of trees per revitalization fund from World
• What coffee farmers coffee farmers in Kenya cannot dare price increase of 98%.It is this hectare) whereas most Bank in realization of an equitable
in Kenya experience is pov- to depend on coffee farming to pay asymmetry of economic power that farmers’ production is be- coffee sector where farmers can
erty by design thanks to un- their bills and have to engage in continues to make coffee producers low this in some instances earn a living income as opposed just
equitable coffee markets and diversified farming practices to earn more vulnerable threatening their being as little as 0.13kg/ to poverty alleviation.
effective corrective actions a living. This is caused by the fact livelihoods. tree. Unfortunately, most
towards this will go a long that coffee trades in very complex But besides playing the victim farmers have 200 to 300 The Writer Brian Gicheru is
way in alleviating penury for international market set-ups. The card, there is a huge potential for coffee bushes cultivated on a coffee farmer based in Nyeri
more than 6 million Kenyans prevailing market price for coffee at the sector stakeholders to bring 0.1 to 0.3 hectares of land. county and invests his extra time in
who depend on the coffee any given time, commonly known some empathy and humanity in It is for this reason that researching on national and global
sector. as the “C price” is determined at how coffee is traded. It is for this such farmers earn a paltry coffee commodities markets.
New York and London international reason that there has been increased Kshs 10,000 per year against For feedback, reach him via;
coffee Exchanges. This does not government intervention in the their living income of Kshs Email:gicherubrian52@gmail.com
factor in the cost of production for recent years. The question is, what 150,000 and ultimately, pov- or Twitter:@briangicheru2
the commodity and is just for the guides these reforms? Is it just to erty becomes a norm.
sole purpose of generating profits increase farmer’s income? And if
for coffee dealers in those markets so, to what level?
SAT/SUN May 16-17, 2020| The Mt. Kenya Times 3 | NATIONAL
Coalition >> * President Uhuru is aware that changes have bad reputation in the society but he is ready to do all it takes to bring lasting change
Uhuru’s Government of National Unity
The President is learning quick-
ly the sooner he adapts Robert
Greene’s laws and turn to politi-
cal foes the better. The President’s
political friends have been taking
his kindness for a weakness, but
this might have come to an end as
Uhuru’s eye is looking outside for
new political allies in other political
houses.
By: Danson Uhuru is invoking Law 2 of
dan@mtkenyatimes.co.ke
Robert Greene’s 48 Laws of Pow-
er: Never Put Too Much Trust In
Friends, Learn How To Use Ene-
mies.
Be wary of friends – they will be-
tray you more quickly, for they are
Summary easily aroused to envy. They also
• Uhuru is invoking become spoiled and tyrannical. But
hire a former enemy, and he will be
Law 2 of Robert Greene’s 48
more loyal than a friend, because he
Laws of Power: Never Put has more to prove. In fact, you have
President Uhuru Kenyatta talks to Russian President Vladimir Putin during a meeting on the sidelines of the Russia-Africa
Too Much Trust In Friends, more to fear from friends than from
Summit and Economic Forum in Sochi, Russia, on October 24, 2019. PHOTO | RAMIL SITDIKOV | AFP
Learn How To Use Enemies. enemies. If you have no enemies,
Be wary of friends – they find a way to make them. “Change has a bad reputation in He said he is a patriot, ready to work with Jubilee Party.
President Uhuru reached out to our society. But it isn’t all bad – not give his services to the nation any- Kalonzo then met his NASA Co-
will betray you more
his political brother, opposition by any means. In fact, change is nec- time and was ready to work with alition counterpart who doubles up
quickly, for they are easily leader Raila Odinga in March 2018 essary in life – to keep us moving, to President Kenyatta towards helping as Ford Kenya leader Moses Wetan-
aroused to envy. They also with an aim of uniting Kenya and keep us growing, to keep us inter- Kenya get back to its feet. gula. It is said they are in advanced
become spoiled and tyranni- fostering Kenya’s economical prog- ested. Imagine life without change. “We are in agreement with Pres- talks and soon his Ford Kenya par-
cal. But hire a former ene- ress devoid of the political dramas It will be static, boring, dull.” – Dr. ident Kenyatta that we need politi- ty may be joining Jubilee in a post
that had over flown from the highly Dennis O’Grady cal, economic and social stability. election working partnership.
my, and he will be more loy-
contested 2017 general elections. He has gone ahead and reached As a political elite, I would not mind The ODM Party’s key organ has
al than a friend, because he The chaotic post-election after- out more political opponents led by being part of the team steering Ken- endorsed Uhuru’s proposal to have
has more to prove. In fact, math had threatened to split Kenya KANU’s Gedion Moi, Wiper Par- ya from the pandemic crisis,” Ruto its members join cabinet. This has
you have more to fear from into two and Raila led faction were ty’s Kalonzo Musyoka, Chama Cha said. further cemented the reality of Uhu-
friends than from enemies. propagating secession ideology. The Mashinani’s Isaac Ruto, and Ford The top leadership Chama Cha ru’s Government of National Uni-
faction made their threat real when Kenya’s Moses Wetangula among Mashinani is leading the same script ty.
If you have no enemies, find
Canadian based Kenyan evictee others. with Isaac as has confirmed by for-
a way to make them. lawyer Miguna Miguna swore Rai- The new line-up, comprising his mer Isiolo Deputy Governor Simba Post Covid-19 economic recovery
• Murathe further sig- la Odinga as Peoples President at fierce political critics like former Guleid, who is a CCM national offi- Jubilee Party Vice chairman and
naled that ODM leader Rai- Uhuru Park on 30th January 2018. Bomet Governor Isaac Ruto is in cial and the Chief Executive Officer President Uhuru close ally David
la Odinga would head the The peace that President Uhuru line with Niccolo Machiavelli’s (CEO) of the Frontier Counties De- Murathe has confirmed plans are on
thought he was seeking was short counsel the introduction of a new velopment Council (FCDC) high gear to establish multi-agency
team and work closely with
lived and his union with Raila order of things. When coming up Ruto on Thursday, May 14 in team to ensure that Kenya recovers
KANU’s Gedion Moi, Wiper proved to be a stumbling block to with new order, the difficulty and Nairobi chaired a meeting of Cha- fast from the effects of Covid-19
Party’s Kalonzo Musyoka, what seemed a highway to succeed perilous nature of conduct are sec- ma Cha Mashinani’s (CCM) top de- and secures Kenyatta’s legacy.
Chama Cha Mashinani’s him by his Deputy William Ruto ondary to the end that justifies the cision-making organ, the National “President Kenyatta is looking
Isaac Ruto, and Ford Kenya’s come 2022. Ruto and his close al- means. Executive Committee (NEC). at a team that will help bring back
lies became the opposition that the “There is nothing more difficult to “The leadership of the Chama Kenya economically and also unite
Moses Wetangula among
president was running away from. take in hand, more perilous to con- Cha Mashinani (CCM), Isaac Ruto it and help him secure his legacy.
others whom they are in When Uhuru thought that his dep- duct, or more uncertain in its suc- and Zakayo Cheruiyot (former MP) It will be a broad-based group with
continuous consultation uty was undermining him he started cess, than to take the lead in the in- and the NEC have jointly resolved people who mean well for Kenya.”
with. to publicly condemn his deputy’s troduction of a new order of things.” to form a post-election coalition Murathe said.
If all these leaders come to- conduct and accused him of loi- – Niccolo Machiavelli agreement with the Jubilee Party to Murathe further signaled that
tering around the country. He used Isaac Ruto wields strong political be deposited with the Registrar of ODM leader Raila Odinga would
gether then, President Uhu-
Swahili word “Tanga tanga” which support in South Rift more so, in his Political Parties for formal signing head the team and work closely with
ru Kenyatta will be running later became a movement of people Bomet County and his neighbouring soon,” Guleid stated after the meet- KANU’s Gedion Moi, Wiper Par-
a Government of National who support DP Ruto in his push to Kericho County. His Chama Cha ing. ty’s Kalonzo Musyoka, Chama Cha
Unity government. succeed his boss. Mashinani has influence that extend For the Central Rift the case Mashinani’s Isaac Ruto, and Ford
to Narok County and if President seems to have been closed as inde- Kenya’s Moses Wetangula among
New political realignments Uhuru bring him to his net then, he pendent KANU Party have already others whom they are in continuous
President Uhuru Kenyatta is de- President Uhuru is aware that shall have gotten a slice of the Rift signed a post-election agreement consultation with.
termined to realize his political changes have bad reputation in the Valley cake that his Deputy William with Jubilee. If all these leaders come together
aspirations by whatsoever means society but he is ready to do all it Ruto has been enjoying alone. After sealing the deal Gideon Moi then, President Uhuru Kenyatta will
which includes sending off half of takes to bring lasting change in his On Wednesday, Ruto told The of KANU was locked in a meeting be running a Government of Na-
his Jubilee Party faction that has government. His advisers seem Standard that he was ready to work with Wiper Party leader Kalonzo tional Unity government.
been criticizing him from within. to be good students of Dr. Dennis with President Kenyatta and was Musyoka. Missing in action in all these plans
He is determined to perform a rad- O’Grady who advices change is talking with like-minded leaders After the meeting Kalonzo con- is DP Ruto and his allies raising the
ical surgery and remove the malig- necessary in life – to keep us mov- to see how Kenya will recover fast vened his party’s National Exec- big question of DP Ruto’s role in
nant tissues that have proven can- ing save for the bad reputation that from the effects of the coronavirus utive Committee’s meeting which Jubilee government in the POST
cerous over time. come with it. pandemic. he later have reported has agreed to COVID-19 KENYA.
....
4 | NEWS SAT/SUN May 16-17, 2020| The Mt. Kenya Times
Donations >> Superfoam is very glad to hand over this donation to help curb the spread of the virus amongst our firefighter’s personnel
SUPERFOAM LTD DONATES 30 MATTRESSES TO
KIAMBU FIRE RESCUE TEAM
By: Zara K. combat any situation,” Superfoam the disease. we could offer our help to curb the The manufacturer had earlier
@mountkenyatimes Ltd CEO Meeraj Shah said. situation, both within and outside donated mattresses and pillows to
“We are working on other similar “As a brand, we are guided our organization. We are for the MP Shah Hospital, Nairobi to ensure
In the fight against the spread of initiatives set to provide support to by the service to our community community and the community is the facility was well equipped to
Covid-19 in the country, Superfoam our neighbouring community and virtues and during this pandemic, for us,” Sagar Shah, Superfoam handle the increasing number of
Limited on Thursday donated 30 to the nation at large during these we are looking into all possible Limited Production head said. coronavirus patients in the country.
high-density mattresses to the tough times.” areas within our community where
Kiambu County Fire Rescue Team.
The event was held at Kiambu Kiambu Governor, James Nyoro
county headquarters, attended by expressed his gratitude to the brand
Superfoam management members for their generosity and urged other
and Governor James Nyoro. well-wishers to join in the fight
The Fire Brigade has allegedly against the pandemic.
been experiencing a shortage of
mattresses which led to the sharing “Kiambu County Government
of mattresses amongst every two would like to express our sincere
firefighters at each of their stations. gratitude to Superfoam Limited
Seeing it as a great risk following for taking the initiative to support
the country’s Covid-19 situations, our fighters. This kind gesture will
Superfoam saw the need to donate ensure the firefighters are protected
the mattresses to the institution to from the risk of contracting
curb bed-sharing immediately. Covid-19 and equally ensure the
safety of our community in case of
“Superfoam is very glad to hand an emergency,” he said.
over this donation to help curb the
spread of the virus amongst our Sagar Shah, Superfoam Limited’s
firefighter’s personnel. We wish production head said the company
for them to be adequately rested was looking into other ways in which
with social distancing precautions Superfoam Ltd’s Sagar Shah and Reuben Nyaberi presenting the donation of mattresses to Kiambu Governor James Nyoro.
they could help the community fight
in place to ensure they are ready to PHOTO| COURTESY
IanPromise Shoes & Accessoris
“Unique & Classic Men Shoes”
Call/Text/WhatsApp
+254 725 269 313
SAT/SUN May 16-17, 2020| The Mt. Kenya Times 5 | AD
6 | NATIONAL SAT/SUN May 16-17, 2020| The Mt. Kenya Times
Appointment >> * Odhiambo was the country’s first Budget Controller after the office was created by the new constitutional dispensation
UHURU APPOINTS EX-BUDGET CONTROLLER
AGNES ODHIAMBO NEW NTSA CHAIRPERSON
kang’o.
Odhiambo will steer a team com-
prising of George Njao – NTSA
director-general; Treasury CS Ukur
Yatani; PS Transport Solomon
Kitungu; Attorney General Paul
Kihara; Inspector General of Police
Hillary Mutyambai.
By: Rose Karanja Others are Francis Mwongo (mem-
rose@mtkenyatimes.co.ke ber); Moses Nderitu – Private Sector
Representative; Catherine Waweru
President Uhuru Kenyatta has ap- (member); Meshack Kidenda (mem-
pointed former Budget Controller ber); and Wilfred Nyamwamu.
Agnes Odhiambo as the new Na- The President also appointed for-
tional Transport and Safety Authori- mer JKUAT Vice-Chancellor Prof
ty (NTSA) chairperson of the board. Mabel Imbuga to chair the NACA-
In a May 13 gazette notice, the DA board.
President said Odhiambo will serve President Kenyatta did not specify
the board for the next three years. how long the don would be at the
She will take over from Alice helm of the anti-drugs agency.
Chesire who has been holding the The 12-member NACADA board
fort in acting capacity after joining has been under the stewardship of
the board in February 2019. Vice-chairperson Margaret Moital-
Ms Odiambo’s appointment took lel.
effect on May 13, 2020.
Odhiambo was the country’s first
Budget Controller after the office
was created by the new constitution-
al dispensation.
She left office in August last year
having served an 8-year term and
was replaced by Margaret Nya- Former Budget Controller Agnes Odhiambo.
SAT/SUN May 16-17, 2020| The Mt. Kenya Times 7 | PARTNERSHIP
PARTNERSHIP >> * SHOFCO will also upscale its community outreach efforts using volunteers and community health workers
SHOFCO IN PARTNERSHIP WITH COCA-COLA TO
FIGHT AGAINST COVID 19
By: Zara K. occasioned by the impact of the food, soap, water
@mountkenyatimes disease. and sanitizers,”
CCBA Managing
Shining Hope for Communities “SHOFCO is providing a total of Director Xavier
(SHOFCO) has partnered with 70 handwashing stations in Kibera Selga said.
Coca-Cola Foundation and Coca- and Mukuru, which are located at “Combating
Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) in main entry points and managed by the spread of
its initiative to provide water, hand volunteers who instruct people on COVID-19 is a
sanitation and public awareness in how to wash their hands on entering joint effort. We
Kibera and Mukuru to prevent the and exiting the slums. We are also are pleased to
spread of COVID-19 disease in these distributing clean water twice a day have received
heavily populated communities. through trucks to people who have support from The
The Coca-Cola Foundation has no access in the two communities Foundation to
provided SHOFCO with Ksh 10 to support the maintenance of implement our
million to support several health basic hygiene levels at all times.” relief support
initiatives in the fight against SHOFCO CEO Kennedy Odede initiatives. The
the spread of Coronavirus in the said. private sector
country. “We are all concerned about continues to
In addition to providing everyone impacted by the play a big role
handwashing stations and creating Coronavirus outbreak in Kenya. in helping
public awareness, SHOFCO will The Coca-Cola Foundation and organisations
use the funds to enhance hand CCBA is keen to support our such as SHOFCO Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO) has partnered with Coca-Cola Foundation and Coca-Cola
hygiene and sanitation by providing vulnerable communities to adhere to to control the Beverages Africa (CCBA). PHOTO| COURTESY
water, soap and sanitizers to the the required hygiene practices that spread of this awareness, distribute illustrated The support is part of Coca-
communities in these areas. have been prescribed by the health pandemic,” added Odede. Kiswahili information pamphlets Cola’s global efforts to help control
Additionally, SHOFCO will also authorities to beat the spread of the and identify anyone with possible the spread of COVID-19 with
provide emergency food support virus. We are also concerned about SHOFCO will also upscale its symptoms for referral to the Kenya being among the 13 African
to ensure that the most vulnerable the welfare of the most vulnerable community outreach efforts using Ministry of Health for quarantine countries in East and Central Africa
families don’t starve as a result and we are glad that SHOFCO will volunteers and community health and testing. Screening will also receiving donations.
of food shortages and price hikes use some of the support to provide workers to conduct door-to-door continue at SHOFCO’s clinics.
8 | RELIGION SAT/SUN May 16-17, 2020| The Mt. Kenya Times
...........
Religion >>>>* * The Quality of your life today is determined by the number of quality decisions you have been making
.......
THE VALLEY OF DECISIONS
of destruction is our own deci- destroyed. Live a righteous life
sions. That’s why God through that you may be established on
His servant Moses admonished earth and your posterity to enjoy
human beings to make decisions a peaceful existence. Attend the
that will lead to life for He is not right church where you shall be
willing to see anyone perishing. taught the wise way of God and
build your life around them for
Isaiah 1:10 “Cursed are those a strong foundational lifestyle
who make evil decisions, and of God’s word which cannot be
the writers who make the re- shaken. Don’t live an ignorant
cords of their cruel acts” (Basic and reckless life for ignorance
English version). Making wrong has no defence. Rev 22:16 “And
decisions usher us to the realm behold, I am coming quickly,
of hardships where nothing in and My reward is with Me, to
life goes well. Here people get give to every one according to
frustrated, hopeless, and even his work.” Remember that on
contemplate suicide. However, the day you shall stand before
nobody is quick to judge his/her God in judgment and give an
life by self-checking on which account of how you lived your
decisions resulted to current sit- life on earth because nobody
uations. In Gen 3, our parents is permanent on this earth, we
Adam and Eve disobeyed God`s shall all die.
instruction not to eat the fruit of
the knowledge of good and evil. I admonish you to use this
Sadly speaking, that one deci- period that the world is shaking
sion of compromise is the rea- due to COVID- 19 in reflecting
son why the whole human race on your decisions making sys-
is facing all these problems. In tem. Ask God to forgive you for
By: Kelvin Gitau the future. Judges 16, Samson was instruct- making wrong decisions in life
ed not to shave his head, drink and align your life in God`s
Deutronomy30:19-20” I call Our opening Text reveals wine, or even expose the secret. will by using God`s word
heaven and earth as witnesses God`s abundant mercy. When However, the laps and beauty in making the right choices
today against you, that I have God created man in Gen 1&2, of one Delilah could not allow .Psms 32:8 “I will instruct you
set before your life and death, He delegated some of His au- him to obey, he ended up losing and teach you in the way you
blessing and cursing; therefore thority to the man to enable him his strength, eyes (vision), and should go; I will guide you
choose life, that both you to function on earth effectively. finally died prematurely. Wrong with My eye.” It’s never too late
and your descendants may live; However, any authority with- decisions can be equated to sui- to start again by making correct
20 that you may love the LORD out control will always lead to cidal attempts. Look at us today, decisions. God rejoices so much
your God, that you may obey self-destruction. Since creation, that woman who is suffering when we turn away from de-
His voice, and that you may God has always filled man with singlehood, raising children out structive paths and ask for His
cling to Him, for He is your life instructions to obey as a way of of wedlock just because of one guidance towards the path of
and the length of your days” guiding him, however, due to night of fantasy which righteousness. I end this discus-
disobedience, mankind has al- ushered a full lifetime of sor- sion with a quote from Apostle
“The Quality of your life to- ways suffered the consequences rows. Many today have chosen Richard Takim, “Life is an
day is determined by the num- of making the wrong decisions. to drink alcohol and use 1st echo, whatever you give to
ber of quality decisions you That is why the best life to live Timothy 5:13 to validate their it in the morning of your life,
have been making.” The only is a life fully synchronized with destructive behaviour, This has comes back to you in the eve-
distinguishing factor between God`s will on earth which is resulted to Brocken homes, un- ning of your life” .Be careful
human beings and all other enclosed in the Holy Bible. We wanted pregnancies, decaying how you spend your days, be
God`s creation is the ability to only need to read the Bible and of health and untold sufferings, careful what you give to this life
have a will to choose and decide. sit under preachers who will however Proverbs 31:6 advice for everything shall come back
Each decision we make is a seed teach us the whole counsel of such intelligent fools by saying to you, either good or bad .May
sown for a future harvest. In line God but not those who mas- “Let beer be for those who are wisdom to make right decisions
with this realization, we ought sage our ego or tell us how to perishing, wine for those who come upon you from this day.
to be careful about our choices get married, rich, early fame or are in anguish!”
since there are consequences. how to kill our enemy and can’t If you want your life to Inspiration by Apostle Rich-
Because all of us will always be rebuke our choices which leads change positively, change your ard E.S Takim.
subjected to the valley of deci- to sin or corruption. I can bold- decisions. Don’t be ignorant to
sions where only we can choose ly say that the greatest sword of counsel or you shall perish and
the direction our life will take. destruction is not from our ene- be erased from the earth. Re-
It’s better to make a slow wise my or curses or ancestral spirits frain from bringing the wrong
decision than a quick decision or a voice crying against us in influence into your life for a
that will heap regrets on us in the village. The greatest sword companion of fools shall be
SAT/SUN May 16-17, 2020| The Mt. Kenya Times 9 | HEALTH
Covid-19 Updates >> * This is out of the 2,100 samples that were tested in the last 24 hours
KENYA RECORDS 23 NEW COVID-19
CASES, TOTAL RISES TO 781
By: Karanja & Abeid
@MountKenyatimes
Kenya on Friday recorded 23
new cases of Covid-19, bring-
ing the country’s total number to
781, Health Chief Administra-
tive Secretary (CAS) Dr. Rashid
Aman said.
This is out of the 2,100 sam-
ples that were tested in the last
24 hours.
The cases are spread across
five counties in the country
namely; Nairobi (11), Momba-
sa (5), Kajiado (3), Kiambu (2),
and Wajir (2).
The 11 cases confirmed in
the capital were recorded in
Embakasi (6), Kamukunji (2),
Lang’ata (2), and Starehe (1); all
the cases in Mombasa were from
Mvita and those in Kiambu re-
Dr. Rashid Aman corded in Thika.
In Kajiado, two truck drivers
from Namanga border point and
1 from Bisil in Kajiado Central
sub-county contracted the dis-
ease.
According to Dr. Aman, the 23
cases, there were 5 females and
18 males aged between 24 and
85.
Aman announced 3 more
deaths from the disease raising
the total fatalities in the country
to 45.
Dr. Aman, speaking while ad-
dressing the press at Afya House,
further commended a majority
of Kenyans for abiding by the
government directives and urged
those flouting the rules to shun
the habit.
10 | NATIONAL SAT/SUN May 16-17, 2020| The Mt. Kenya Times
Transport >> * Kenyans should not expect any drop in fares and commodity prices despite fuel prices falling to a new low
NO RELIEF IN TRANSPORT COSTS AS FUEL
PRICES FALL
By: Waithera Karanja Pump prices for Kerosene, used
@mountkenyatimes for lighting and cooking by poor
Pump prices have now fallen households, has however increased
to Sh83.33 for a litre of petrol by Sh2.49 to retail at Sh79.77 a litre.
and Sh78.37 for a litre of diesel
in Nairobi, in the latest monthly “No kerosene cargo was
price adjustment (May-June) by the discharged at the Port of Mombasa
Energy and Petroleum Regulatory for the period April 10 to May 9.
Authority (EPRA). Therefore, the prevailing kerosene
However, Kenyans should price has been maintained but with
not expect any drop in fares and adjustments in VAT calculations,”
commodity prices despite fuel Oimeke said.
prices falling to a new low.
The two, which is petrol and Super petrol and diesel which
diesel, have dropped by Sh9.54 and are key drivers of the transport and
Sh19.19 respectively from Sh92.87 industrial sectors traded at Sh110.87
and Sh97.56 a litre in April-May. and Sh101.65 per litre in March.
Though a relief for private car
“The changes in this month’s owners, majority of Kenyans will
prices are as a consequence of the continue digging deeper to move
from one point to another as public A matatu at a filling station
average landed cost of imported
super petrol decreasing by 3.8 per service operators dismiss any population depends on public has led to a spike in fare prices,
cent from $309.03 per cubic meter in chances of bringing fares down. transport with more than 60,000 which according to the Kenya “We are seeing less volatility on
March to $188.07 in April,” EPRA They argue the cost of doing licensed public service vehicles. National Bureau of Statistics, consumer goods prices,” KAM
director-general Pavel Oimeke said business remains high in the wake Matatu Owners Association residents of Nairobi and satellite chairman Sachen Gudka said
in a statement yesterday. of the coronavirus forcing them to chairman Simon Kimutai yesterday towns paid more for transport last yesterday.
uphold current fares which have said measures put in place to contain month, a trend that continues to
Diesel decreased by 44.04 from increased by at least 66 per cent. the spread of Covid-19 has seen date. Reduced industrial and public
$432.70 to $242.13 per cubic meter. Over 90 per cent of the country’s Matatus cut capacity by 50 per cent. Bus fares rose to an average of transport activities has however
This, coupled Sh50 in April, KNBS inflation data seen Oil Marketing Companies
with the cost shows, from Sh30 in April last year, (OMCs) struggle to push products
of spares, the reflecting the highest rise at 66.67 downstream, with yesterday’s
routine serving per cent. downward review exposing them to
of vehicles, Routes sampled by the Star in losses as they still hold old stocks.
insurance Nairobi include CBD–Roysambu According to Supplycor Kenya
and seasonal –Zimemrman – Kahawa West that Ltd, OMCs umbrella body which
licenses makes now costs commuters Sh100 up coordinates activities along the fuel
the business from the normal Sh70-Sh80. supply chain, demand for super
costly, hence Those commuting between the petrol and diesel in the month of
operators Umoja Estate and the CBD are April declined by approximately 40
cannot afford to parting with up to Sh150 up from per cent.
reduce fares. Sh80. CBD to Kitengela is currently
Sh150 per head up from Sh80. “This disruption of sales has
“The drop in therefore led to accumulation
fuel is nothing “Still, matatu owners are not of older priced cargoes in the
to the matatu meeting the cost of operations,” system which pose a significant
industry at Kimutai noted. commercial exposure to OMCs,”
the moment. Supplycor chairman Martin
Even with the A rise in foodstuff prices and Kimani, who is also the general
reduction, we commuter fares are likely spike manager KenolKobil(Kenya) said
are making inflation this month, reversing gains in a statement.
losses big from recent government tax breaks
time,” Kimutai to cushion the economy. EPRA data shows month-on-
said. Overall inflation was 5.62 per month consumption has been
cent in April up from 5.51 per cent dropping since January, reflecting
According in March. the impact of Covid-19 on the
to the industry economy.
trends, a 33 “The increase was mainly In January, the country’s super
seater that attributed to an increase in prices petrol consumption was 170,165
would close of some food items such as loose cubic metres. It dropped 7.3 per cent
a day with maize-grain, sukumawiki, onions, to 157,755 cubic metres in February
Sh6,000 is Irish potatoes, and carrots,” KNBS and a further drop of 3.8 per cent to
now making noted in a statement. 151,832 in March.
Sh2,000, barely Diesel, which is heavily used in
half daily Prices on manufactured goods are farms and manufacturing, averaged
earnings on expected to remain unchanged in the 215,104 cubic meters in the three
normal days. short-term according to the Kenya months under review, slightly lower
Covid-19 Association of Manufacturers, with than the 218,163 cubic metres in a
disruption on the drop in fuel mitigating effects of similar period last year.
the economy the weakening shilling.SAT/SUN May 16-17, 2020| The Mt. Kenya Times 11 | RELATIONSHIP
CONVERSATIONS YOU NEED TO HAVE BEFORE YOU SAY ’TIL DEATH DO YOU PART
By: RW Karanja
@mountkenyatimes
“Marriage is not a bed of roses”, Marriage
means promising to devote yourself to 1. Money
someone, to remain a loving team, no mat- No one likes to talk about money or financial
ter what life throws at you, the good, the habits, but you have to. How much money do
bad, and the ugly. you both have saved? How is each of you at
So before anyone puts a ring on anything, managing money? How do you like to spend
make sure you’ve engaged in sincere, money? Who will make more money and is
constructive, and realistic conversations. the other okay with that? How much debt do
And if that doesn’t sound very romantic to you really have? These are all questions to get
you, just think of how much more deeply into before saying “I do,” because once you’re
you’ll get to know each other by sharing married, your (singular) money becomes your
your take on these five intimate heart-to- (plural) money.
hearts.
2. KIDS
How many children you want to have and when,
don’t avoid touchy subjects like what you’d
both do in the event you’re not able to start a
family biologically. Are you both up to invest-
ing on in vitro fertilization (IVF) or adoption, or
would you be content not to have children?
Again, the darker, uncomfortable questions like
these are often the most important.
3. RELIGION
Faith is often (though not always) a corner-
stone of a couple’s union. But religion will be an
especially subject to broach if you two come
from different religious backgrounds. You
each have your own belief systems, familiar
customs, and familial expectations. This can
be an indisputably touchy subject, but you have
to make sure you’re on the same page about
building a life together, compromising, and rais-
ing a family within the context of your shared
or respective faiths.
4. CAREER GOALS
This topic can be approached more generally in
future,ities into everything from kids to money
to where you want to live. Quiz each other on
where you want to be personally in 1, 5, 30
years. Do you want to work until your body
quits, or are you willing to sacrifice a full-time
job to help raise a family? Have you always
wanted to take an opportunity in another city?
Are you willing to put certain ambitions on hold
to accommodate your partner’s work changes
and accomplishments? Think about it, talk
about, and be 100 percent honest about it.
5. SEX
If you’ve been together a while, you’re likely
doing this part right—but it doesn’t hurt to
talk about the future in terms of your sex life.
Life gets busy, difficult, and stressful, and you
won’t be in the honeymoon phase forever. You
two need to know you’re on the same page.
While it’s not impossible, people with vastly
different libidos often don’t click forever, so
acknowledge and understand each other’s
sex-life expectations before you wind up
sharing a bed ’til death do you part.12 | POEMS SAT/SUN May 16-17, 2020| The Mt. Kenya Times
MIND YOU
Gathoni Wamwondwe
Profile:Teresia Wamwondwe
Page: Drippings of the Pen
Only the shoe wearer knows where the Only them know where their shoe pinches
shoe pinches For the times we’ve looked back and
We all got a lot to say on lives we’ve judged
never lived For the times our noses have being in
We talk a lot until it is served on your their businesses
table, in your plate For the times our pots overcooked
We humans judge too much concentrating on the neighbors
They could have done this, could have said For the times we sailed to the wrong
that directions looking at others
Can we help it? Let us adjust our focus on what requires
Yes we can, if only we learnt to mind our efforts
that which concerns us Concentrate on our own shoes
Every person got their life to live And in our feet, we shall match forward
And being the captain of your own ship, to a better US.
sail yours to the direction you want ~ GathoniWamwondwe ~
Don’t keep looking back to see if they are
following your route
Some ships are sinking as the sailors gaze
at others
I believe everybody got their own reasons
of doing things the way they do, right or
wrong
EMBRACE POSITIVITY AND OPTIMISM
Make sure this knowledge is ingrained in The new month is dear to all of us
your heart And it comes with hopes and
That every day will always remain the expectations
very best of the year Making us forget about our past worries
No one owns the day dobut God so cast Happy new month
all your fears on him �ºkukhualehandrowritings
Say no to worry and all forms of anxiety
Start what you can finish and finish what
you can start
Try your best and say no to all form of
mediocrity happened
You will have blunders and failures but
that is bound to happen
Make sure you ignore them so you can
move to the next
Today is all you can see but the worries
of today may affect your tomorrow
Start the new month well with all the
calmness and responsibility you need
Forget about the nonsense of the past
month so you can fare better in this new
month
......SAT/SUN May 16-17, 2020| The Mt. Kenya Times 13 | AD
14 SAT/SUN May 16-17, 2020| The Mt. Kenya Times
BUSINESS
ABSA KENYA NOW OF- HUAWEI TO LAUNCH
FERS PRIVATE SCHOOLS NOVA7I IN KENYA TO-
LOANS TO PAY TEACH- WARD THE END OF MAY
ERS’ SALARIES
Huawei to launch nova7i in Kenya toward the end of May.
Absa Bank Kenya managing director Jeremy Awori
Absa Bank Kenya is offer- director Jeremy Awori said in survival. Huawei mobile will soon in- also encompasses unparal- nology which provides sys-
ing private schools overdraft a statement. Students are taught real-time troduce the Huawei nova7i leled photography features, tem optimization to increase
loans to pay teachers’ salaries via apps like Zoom and following the successful a large 4200mAH battery processing speed as well as
and utilities in the wake of President Uhuru Kenyatta in Skype, allowing them to in- launch of nova5T in the and the outstanding 40W improve efficiency between
the coronavirus outbreak that March directed all schools teract and seek clarification market early in the year. Huawei SuperCharge. If you software and hardware col-
has led to the closure of in- and higher education learn- from teachers, a move that The device comes with an are looking to change up laboration.
stitutions. ing institutions to shut down looks set to exacerbate the attractive package of out- your phone, Huawei nova7i Huawei nova 7i greatly im-
As the economic fallout to reduce the danger of the learning gap between the standing photography per- is the way to go.” he said. proves frame rate and brings
from the pandemic begins to spread of the coronavirus. haves and have-nots. formance and battery life. about quick millisecond
bite, several smaller private Private schools had warned The device will be available The Huawei nova 7i is pow- sensitive touch response,
schools, which are struggling of a possible financial crisis “Absa Bank will support in the market towards the ered by the Kirin 810 chipset supporting popular games
to pay teachers salary risk be- and their teachers and staff schools to procure e-learn- end of May and will be sold which is manufactured with such as Arena of Valor,
ing driven out of business on being laid off if the corona- ing infrastructure including in select stores across the an industry-leading 7nm PUBG Mobile and dozens
the loss of their main income virus pandemic continued the hardware and software Country including Jumia. process. According to the more.
which is school fees. beyond April, which means required to enable e-learn- Huawei nova7i boasts a GFX tests, the single-core Huawei nova 7i also sup-
This is opening an opportu- delayed start to the second ing during this period,” Mr distinctive quad camera, ar- CPU performance ofKi- ports 40W Huawei Su-
nity for banks to grow their term. Awori said. ranged in a 2×2 matrix. The rin 810 is 11% greater than perCharge, which charges
loan books while easing the Now, the State remains un- four lenses are made up of a the Snapdragon 730; multi- significantly faster than a
pain of businesses that have certain when schools will Absa is now offering loans 48MP Main Camera, a 120° core performance greater by standard 18W from other
shut in efforts to curb the reopen, further hurting the fi- for the purchase of IT hard- Ultra-Wide Angle lens, a 13% and GPU performance phones. With this, it only
spread of the viral disease. nances and outlook of private ware and software needed for Portrait Bokeh lens and fi- greater by 15%. For this takes half an hour to get the
schools. online classes. nally a 4cm Macro lens. reason, Kirin 810’s perfor- device recharged to70%.
“The bank is offering a short- Unlike government schools, Huawei Mobile Kenya mance excels, and impress- Additionally, Huawei Su-
term financing option to help private schools do not receive Country Head Jim Zhujie es with its graphics process- perCharge is certified by
schools cater for their recur- capitation or State funding, says “Huawei nova7i is an ing and gaming capabilities. TÜV Rheinland, so that you
rent expenses such as sala- meaning they depend entire- entertainment mid-range de- For processing gaming can use your phone while
ries. Under this arrangement, ly on school fees to operate. vice suitable for millennials graphics, the real test is charging safely and without
schools can access up to Sh10 Some private schools are and Gen Z’s alike. GPU real-time computing a problem.
million in unsecured over- turning to online classes to capabilities. Huawei nova
drafts and short-term loans,” generate income from school “Not only does it have a 7i utilizes GPU Turbo 3.0
Absa Bank Kenya managing fees revenue as they fight for sleek look and feel, but it graphics processing tech-
.SAT/SUN May 16-17, 2020| The Mt. Kenya Times 15 | PUNCHY SEGMENT
P-SEGMENT: What’s Hot in Counties
Shocking Audit report on how MEWASS water compa-
ny misused funds
traced. months’ basic salary in lieu of no-
Ouko noted that MEWASS under- tice.
spent its Ksh.188, 764,558 budget Auditor general report also re-
by Sh.23, 719, 039 leading to lack vealed that MEWASS paid Sh.
of expected services by Meru res- 701,528 as wages and salaries to a
idents in the year ended 30th June former officer who was no longer
2018. their employer. It was also not noted
The auditor general argued that who made the irregular payment.
the funds should have been allocated The assembly further heard that
to other deserving areas that would MEWASS spent Sh.1, 474,100
have improved goods and services during a staff retreat to Mombasa
delivery to the people of Meru. however no explanation was pro-
The report further revealed that an vided to why the staff went to such
officer working with MEWASS was a retreat that could be done in Meru.
paid Ksh. 59,417 leave allowances Speaking at the assembly Miriam
twice. Kajuju a nominated MCA said wa-
Ouko in his report noted that the ter shortages in Meru County are as
officer had been paid the leave al- a result of mismanagement in ME-
lowances as part of his monthly sal- WASS.
ary but MEWASS went ahead to pay Abogeta East MCA Karinga Mwi-
him again as accrued leave days. rigi who moved the motion to adopt
The auditor general further re- the auditor general report noted that
vealed that MEWASS failed to de- bad management in MEWASS had
duct Sh. 217,129 from the said of- resulted to losses in the company,
ficer two months’ salary that he was grafts and water problems in the
not entitled to after immediate res- County.
Meru water and Sewerage Company (MEWASS) offices at Kinoru, a few meters from Kinoru Stadium in Meru. An audit ignation contrary to his employment Emily Makena a nominated MCA
general report has revealed misuse of funds by the water Company. photo/Rugendo Antony
contract. blamed Meru water Chief Officer
By Rugendo Antony account to spent funds. revealed by audit general. According to Ouko the officer for failure to oversee the functions
MEWASS is an urban water pro- Through a report from the auditor gave a resignation notice on 22nd of MEWASS.
The Auditor General has revealed vision and sewerage system manag- General, Edward Ouko MEWASS December 2017 and resigned forty Makena noted that there are oth-
misuse of public funds by Meru ing company owned by Meru Coun- adopted by Meru County assembly days after the notice however the er water companies that could be
water and Sewerage Company ty Government. today it was revealed that MEWASS contract stipulates that employment entrusted with providing clean and
(MEWASS) through its improp- Illegal and irregular salary pay- overspent its year ended 2018 bud- can be terminated by giving a three safe water to Meru residents.
er planning, defective budgetary ments and mismanagement of the get by Sh. 5,161,326, amount of month notice of such intention or
preparation and failure to properly company cash are among the issues money that its source cannot be by paying back to MEWASS three
SAFARICOM EXTENDS BONGA FOR GOOD INITIATIVE
FOR A SECOND MONTH
By: Kaila Njeri pact of the COVID-19 pandemic. ther employees or charity causes of introduced in 2007 with enrolled Customers can redeem as little
@MountKenyatimes The initiative also empowers cus- their choice, showing an urgent ne- customers accumulating a point for as Ksh.1 via Lipa na Bonga at key
tomers to donate their Bonga Points cessity among individuals and fam- every KES 10 spent on services on merchants or transfer their points to
Safaricom has extended the Bon- to those in need as a show of good- ilies to access essential goods and the Safaricom network. those in need.
ga For Good Campaign for an ex- will. services during this period. To redeem or transfer points, cus-
tra 30 days to June 3, 2020 to en- The Bonga loyalty scheme was tomers should dial *126#.
able customers continue using their “By extending the initiative for a
points to buy goods and services as second month, we want to further
well as donate to those in need. support our customers to tap into the
By the end of phase one, more than value of their Bonga Points to assist
200,000 customers had redeemed those in need as sign of goodwill,”
more than 670 million points equiv- said Peter Ndegwa, Safaricom CEO.
alent to over Ksh. 200million, a big
boost to the over 140,000 partici- Some of the top items accessed
pating merchants at a period when through Bonga Points include
business activities are suppressed. food, medicine, personal protective
Launched on April 3, 2020, the equipment, farm input and payment
initiative seeks to empower cus- of utility bills, while more custom-
tomers by handing them an extra ers are also redeeming their points
cashflow to buy food and essential for mobile data as they spend more
services by enhancing the value of time online for work, education or
Bonga Points by 50per cent, from entertainment.
20 cents to 30 cents, as a way of Bonga For Good has also seen
cushioning Kenyans against the im- corporates donate their points to ei-16 | NATIONAL SAT/SUN May 16-17, 2020| The Mt. Kenya Times Doanations>> * The governor was grateful and urged more people to step up and help address insufficient food supply Nyeri County Public Service Board donates food- stuffs By: David Kinyanjui @mountkenyatimes Nyeri Governor Kahiga Mutahi has received foodstuffs from the Nyeri County Public Service Board. These are aimed at cushion the less fortunate people in Nyeri during this time when many families are strug- gling to put food on their table. Nyeri County has not been spared by the national job loss and non-per- forming business occasioned by the devastating effects of Coronavirus which have severely affected econ- omies globally. The governor was grateful and urged more people to step up and help address insufficient food sup- ply. He further urged those with job vacancies to consider offering them to their neighbours. The team led by the chairman Paul Kimondo noted that the effort is geared towards feeding the vulner- able people in Nyeri County in the wake of Covid-19.
SAT/SUN May 16-17, 2020| The Mt. Kenya Times 17 | WORLD
Covid-19. >> * The company has previously announced it was donating some 1.5 million doses for free
Gilead Drug Is Cleared for Emergency Use by FDA
vere cases.
Remdesivir was previously avail-
able only for patients enrolled in
clinical trials or for patients cleared
to get the drug under expanded use
and compassionate use programs.
Through Gilead’s trials, more than
181 hospital locations around the
world, including hospitals in 27
U.S. states, have been administering
the drug. The FDA authorization
applies to patients hospitalized with
severe COVID-19 who require oxy-
gen supplementation.
Gilead said Remdesivir is a result
of a decade of research. The com-
pany has patented the drug in US,
China and other parts of the world.
Gilead filed additional patent ap-
plications for remdesivir for its
uses against coronavirus globally,
including China, in 2016. The pat-
ent application for the uses against
coronavirus is still pending in Chi-
na.
Emergency use authorization al-
lows products to be used for treat-
ment without full data on their safe-
ty and efficacy, which has to be still
submitted as trial continue.
desivir only for the treatment of The new move allows it to be dis- This was lighting speed in terms
COVID-19, remdesivir remains an tributed far more widely and used of getting something approved from
investigational drug and has not in both adults and children who are clinical trial to getting it authorized,
been approved by FDA. hospitalized with a severe form of it was 90 days, said US Food and
Allocation of the currently limited COVID-19. drug Administration (FDA) Com-
Summary available supply of remdesivir will The Food and Drug Administra- missioner Stephen Hahn, speaking
• Gilead is working be made based on guiding principles tion, which authorized the approval, at the White House with President
Pratibha Bissht with the US government that aim to maximise access for ap- defines severe as having low blood Donald Trump at his side.
pratibhabissht@mtkenyatimes. propriate patients in urgent need of oxygen levels, requiring oxygen
co.ke
on the logistics of remde- Remdesivir, when administered
treatment, with direction from and therapy, or being on a ventilator. by an intravenous infusion, helped
Mt. Kenya Times Asian region Se- sivir distribution and will in collaboration with the govern- The US National Institute of Al- patients recover on an average in 11
nior editor based in India provide more information ment. lergy and Infectious Diseases (NI- days, compared to 15 days taken by
Gilead Sciences on May 2 an- when the company begins The US government will coordi- AID) announced the results of a tri- those on placebo.
nounced that the United States Food shipping the drug under the nate the donation and distribution of al involving more than 1,000 people A draft study abstract released
and Drug Administration (USFDA) EUA. remdesivir to hospitals in cities most on Wednesday. inadvertently by the World Health
has granted emergency use authori- heavily impacted by COVID-19. Data released this week from a Organization (WHO) last week
• The company has Gilead is working with the US trial by the National Institutes of
sation (EUA) for the investiga- said remdesivir failed to improve
previously announced it was government on the logistics of rem- Health (NIH) in the United States patients’ condition or reduce the
tional antiviral remdesivir to treat
COVID-19. donating some 1.5 million desivir distribution and will provide showed that remdesivir reduced. pathogen’s presence in the blood-
Remdesivir is authorised for the doses for free. This amounts more information when the compa- Hospitalization stays by 31% com- stream. The drug maker said the
treatment of hospitalised patients to about 140,000 treatment ny begins shipping the drug under pared to a placebo treatment, but did findings were inconclusive because
with severe COVID-19 disease. The the EUA. not significantly improve survival. the study was terminated early.
courses based on a 10 day This EUA opens the way for us While not considered a miracle
optimal duration of treatment is still
treatment duration. to provide emergency use of rem- cure, remdesivir’s trial achieved a
being studied in ongoing clinical
trials. Under the EUA, both 5day • While not considered desivir to more patients with severe proof of concept and that could pave
and 10day treatment durations are a miracle cure, remdesivir’s symptoms of COVID-19, said Dan- the way for better treatments.
suggested, based on the severity of trial achieved a proof of iel O’Day, Chairman and Chief Ex- It was first developed to treat Eb-
disease. ecutive Officer of Gilead Sciences. ola, a viral hemorrhagic fever, but
concept and that could pave The company has previously an- did not boost survival rates as other
US President Donald Trump, on
the way for better treat- nounced it was donating some 1.5 medicines.
May 1, said that the FDA has grant-
ed Emergence Use Authorisation ments. million doses for free. This amounts With many countries reeling
(EUA) for the investigational anti- • It was first developed to about 140,000 treatment courses from the coronavirus pandemic,
viral remdesivir. to treat Ebola, a viral hem- based on a 10 day treatment dura- interest in Gilead’s drug has been
The authorization is temporary tion. high because there are currently
orrhagic fever, but did not Remdesivir, which is adminis- no approved treatments or preven-
and does not take the place of the
boost survival rates as other tered by an injection, was already tive vaccines for COVID-19. Doc-
formal new drug application sub-
mission, review and approval pro- medicines. available to some patients who tors are desperate for anything that
cess, the company said. enrolled in clinical trials, or who might alter the course of the disease
The EUA allows for the distri- sought it out on a compassionate that attacks the lungs and can shut
bution and emergency use of rem- use basis. down other organs in extremely se-You can also read
