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{
    "id": 1517794,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/1517794/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 351,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Sen. Okenyuri",
    "speaker_title": "",
    "speaker": null,
    "content": "governments. Since devolution is still a relatively new concept for many Kenyans, without proper education, its full potential cannot be realised. Fourthly, the Bill seeks to combat misinformation. We live in an era of widespread misinformation, both on social media and in daily engagements on the ground. Therefore, by providing citizens with the right civic education, we will provide accurate and reliable information to counter false narratives and promote transparency in governance. This Bill also seeks to promote inclusivity by ensuring that marginalised groups, including women, youth, Persons with Disabilities, and minority communities, are not left behind in civic education programmes. These groups often face barriers to participation, and this Bill will ensure that their voices are heard. I would also like to mention that I know the Women Representatives have a fund to promote civic education. I would like to welcome them to support this proposal because that is already captured in their funding lines. An informed citizenry is the foundation of any thriving democracy. When citizens understand their rights and responsibilities, they are better equipped to hold their leaders accountable, demand transparency, and actively contribute to the development of their communities. This Bill is not just about education; it is also about empowerment. It is about giving every Kenyan, from Turkana to Kwale, from Mombasa to Kisumu, the tools they need to be active participants in our democracy. Therefore, the Bill proposes establishing civic education units in every county, which is not a new phenomenon. The County Government's Act of 2012 provides for this. Therefore, these units will be tasked with designing and implementing civic education programmes tailored to the unique needs of their communities. These units will work closely with civil society organisations, religious institutions, and community leaders to ensure that civic education reaches every corner of our nation. The use of local languages and culturally appropriate methods will be emphasised to ensure that no one is left behind. Mr. Temporary Speaker, Sir, “No one is left behind” is one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) we are approaching in 2030. I hope we will live to the truth and letter of the one phrase: “No one is left behind”. Additionally, the Bill mandates regular reporting and evaluation to ensure that these programmes are effective and responsive to people's needs. This is not a one-size- fits-all approach. It is a dynamic, inclusive framework that recognises the diversity of our nation. The passage of this Bill is not just a legislative duty. It is a moral imperative. It is our responsibility as leaders to ensure that every Kenyan is empowered with the knowledge they need to fully participate in our democracy. I want to urge Members to pass this Bill and take a bold step towards building a more informed, engaged, empowered nation. Some may argue that civic education is already being conducted by various organisations nationally and that this bill is a duplication or unnecessary. However, the current efforts are always fragmented, unfunded, and inconsistent. We need civic The electronic version of the Senate Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Director, Hansard and AudioServices, Senate."
}