The government has urged the Nubian community to pursue their interests as a united front to realize meaningful representation at both the national and county levels.
The Director for Minority and Marginalized Affairs Unit, in the Executive Office of the President, Josephat Lowoi, told community leaders during a public participation session in Kibra that their unity was key in consolidating their bargaining power for leadership positions.
“The government has prioritized inclusivity, and it is crucial for the Nubian community to actively engage in structured discussions about their representation,” Hon. Lowoi stated.
He urged the community to adopt a well-organised leadership approach to ensure they were adequately involved in decision-making processes so that their needs and aspirations were addressed.
Lowoi decried that the Nubian community was losing out in some of the critical national exercise because of their disunity and lack of foresight for the common good of the community, citing cases where they missed government appointments.
He encouraged the unemployed youth to feel free to apply for job opportunities in the country like other Kenyans as long as they meet the minimum qualification to bridge the current deficit ratio of the population of the community in the public service.
“While positive discrimination can be applied, it is important that individuals meet the basic qualifications for government jobs,” he added.
He further emphasized that Nubians residing in at least 12 counties across the country had a substantial number to warrant greater representation, adding that the policy paper supported affirmative action to ensure that the Nubians were no longer classified as a minority group.
The meeting also addressed key issues affecting the Nubian community, including land ownership, which is currently under review at the Attorney General’s office.
Additionally, concerns about identity documentation were discussed, with Alex Mbute, the Assistant County Commissioner (ACC) for Kibera, acknowledging progress in issuing ID cards and birth certificates to Nubian community members.
On matters of resettlement, it was noted that some Nubians have already begun relocating from river sources in compliance with government directives.
Lowoi confirmed that the government has pledged to identify and support individuals with a history of struggle to ensure they are fully integrated into national development efforts.
Lowoi warned that ongoing leadership struggles are slowing down efforts to address the community’s challenges. He urged for unity and strong, centralized leadership, cautioning against multiple factions that create division.
“I want to lead one Nubian community, not many divided groups. Let us remain united,” he said.
The Nubian community was also encouraged to foster a culture of mutual support and cooperation, ensuring that internal disputes do not derail efforts to secure their rightful place in government and national development.
By Jacqueline Adyang
