>>BY KHAMISI NGOKA>>

At least 6,000 children in Mombasa County will benefit from a measles vaccination.

Speaking on Wednesday during the launch of the vaccine, Sarah Kayanda from the Mombasa County Health Department said the vaccine was meant to prevent measles, which has been reported in some parts of the county.

The measles jab will target children under five, particularly those under two, who missed out on their doses.

“We have been receiving reports of measles outbreaks in some parts of our locality that’s why we are launching this jab to prevent our kids from the outbreak,” she said.

Meanwhile, Changamwe sub-county Public Health Nurse Patrick Chanzera has assured parents of the safety of the vaccine urging them to take their children for the measles vaccination.

“We urge all community members to embrace the vaccine distribution process to prevent our kids from the outbreak,” he said.

The seven-day measles vaccination drive will run from the 1st to 7th of August.

The measles vaccine is administered twice to children below two years, at nine months old and 20 months (1yr 8 months) old.

Hassan Omar Hassan has taken over as the new interim Secretary General of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

The UDA Vice Chairperson took over as the interim SG following the ouster of Cleophas Malala by the Party’s National Executive Committee.

“National Executive Committee has determined to designate the Vice-Chairperson Hon. Hassan Omar Hassan to act as the Secretary-General on an interim basis. The appointment of Hon. Cleophas Malala as the interim Secretary General is hereby revoked. These changes are effective immediately,” read a statement from the Cecily Mbarire-chaired NEC.

Taking over his new role, the former Wiper SG said he was ready to elevate UDA to new heights.

“We were in the rigorous process of renewing our leadership through grassroots elections, I do believe that I will engage other organs of the party to ensure that we publish a program as to how we intend to conclude that process moving forward,” said the new SG.

Omar said restoring the party’s honor and dignity was necessary.

“As a party, we needed to make critical decisions to effect smooth operations and I am humbled to be given such responsibility,” he said.

Meanwhile, Mombasa UDA members took to the streets to celebrate the appointment of Hassan Omar.

Speaking in Mombasa, UDA Changamwe sub-county Chair Raphael Mwandoe urged President Ruto to make Sarai the full-time SG not just in an acting capacity.

“Hassan Omar can elevate the party to new levels. We have seen his work, capabilities, loyalty, and dedication to the party. Through him many young people have secured employment which has played a big role in the coastal bloc economy,” said Mwandoe.

“The appointment shows that the party has faith in Hassan Omar. He was the Wiper SG before meaning he has the skills and we know he will contribute greatly to the betterment of the party,” said Sheikh Abu Qatada.

President William Ruto is in Coast region to unveil government projects.

President arrived  on Thursday to a jubilant welcome by  Mombasa residents who thronged the Sabasaba intersection where his entourage was passing by.

This comes a day after nominating former Mombasa Governor Ali Hassan Joho as  CS for Mining and Blue Economy. He defended his decision to incorporate politicians from the opposition to his  government saying it will unite the country.

” Do you permit me to work with Joho whom i appointed as CS in the government?”, posed Ruto to a jubilant crowd.

Mombasa Governor, Abdulswamad Nassir , Mvita Mp Mohammed Machele, Nyali Mp Mohammed Ali and EALA Mp Hassan Omar Sarai accompanied the president.

Ruto is also expected to head to Kilifi North constituency for a fundraising event.

Several leaders from the Coast region have applauded president Ruto for nominating Joho and Salim Mvurya to the cabinet.

Hundreds of journalists in Mombasa protested on Wednesday against police brutality against their profession.

The protest started at Pembe za Ndovu in the morning with journalists chanting and singing the national anthem.

They protested along Moi Avenue, walking towards the Mombasa County Commissioner’s office to present their petition.

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Led by Coast Media Welfare Chairman Francis Mtalaki, they demanded the arrest of police officers who shot and injured a Nakuru-based journalist.

“We have noticed a trend where some government operatives profile journalists as they cover the anti-government protests by gen-z. Those policemen must be arrested,” said Mtalaki.

The scribes drawn from different media houses in Mombasa further accused the government of trying to silence them saying they will not budge.

“Journalism is not a crime. We are merely messengers. Why should we be targeted and even attacked by police during our normal duties? Police must be called to order,” said Ali Mwalimu from Radio Rahma.

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Human Rights activists led by Haki Africa’s Rapid Response Officer Mathias Shipeta and his counterpart from Muslims for Human Rights (MUHURI) Francis Auma joined the protest in solidarity with journalists.

“As human rights defenders, we stand in solidarity with journalists. We have had incidences where some have been shot and injured during protests, and others abducted by police,” said Shipeta.

Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Sheriff Nassir has congratulated his predecessor Ali Hassan Joho on his nomination to President William Ruto’s Cabinet.

Joho was nominated by Pres. Ruto to head the Mining and Blue Economy Ministry that was formerly headed by former Kwale Governor Salim Mvurya.

Governor Swamad took to his socials to congratulate his predecessor right after the announcement was made.

“Your dedication, leadership, and vision have been recognized, and we have no doubt that you will excel in your new role upon confirmation by the National Assembly,” said Swamad.

Also read: Joho among Ruto’s nominees to Cabinet

Joho’s nomination also saw Mombasa residents taking to the streets to celebrate.

The list of 10 Cabinet Secretaries nominees was announced at State House in Nairobi by the head of state.

“Your passion for public service and your ability to bring positive change will undoubtedly make a significant impact. Congratulations once again, and may your tenure as Waziri be filled with success and fulfillment,” said Swamad.