Lamu Youth Cancel ‘Nane Nane’ Protests After Joho’s Appointment
The recent reshuffle of the Cabinet, particularly the appointment of former Mombasa Governor Hassan Ali Joho as Minister of Mining and Maritime Economy, has brought renewed hope to the Gen Z youth of Lamu County. This change has led them to abandon their planned protests on Thursday, August 8, 2024, known locally as ‘Nane Nane.’
The youth, who spoke to Taifa Leo Digital from Lamu Island, expressed their belief that President William Ruto’s appointment of Joho reflects fairness and attentiveness to their needs. They feel that Joho, with his extensive experience in maritime issues, will address the challenges faced by the fishing community and improve the sector comprehensively.
Mohamed Omar, one of the youths, shared his optimism that Joho will build on the work started by his predecessor, Salim Mvurya. Omar stated, “We see no reason to protest today. We feel satisfied as President Ruto has ensured that leaders like Joho and Mvurya are part of the new Cabinet. The appointment of Joho has given us enough confidence to call off today’s protests.”
Omar added, “We have great faith that Joho will advance the Maritime Economy sector, considering that the Coast, especially Lamu, is a fishing community. Let us allow our new ministers to work.”
Another youth, who preferred to remain anonymous, echoed similar sentiments, stating that they were content with the new list of ministers appointed by President Ruto. The appointment of Joho was seen as a key factor in their decision to halt the planned protests.
The youth expressed their hopes that Joho would enhance the maritime economy, focusing on the maritime training college in Lamu and ensuring job creation and prioritization of maritime education, particularly in vocational training institutions.
The youth also praised President Ruto for including former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya, former Suba South MP John Mbadi, and Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi among others in the new Cabinet. They viewed the inclusion of strong opposition leaders as a positive sign of hard work.
Meanwhile, normal activities, including business and transportation, continued without disruption across Lamu’s major towns on Thursday. This was in contrast to other parts of the country, such as Nairobi, where commercial areas faced closures due to the ‘Nane Nane’ protests.
Taifa Leo visited several towns including Lamu Old Town, Shella, Mokowe, Hindi, Mpeketoni, Hongwe, Baharini, Kibaoni, Majembeni, and Witu, finding the atmosphere calm and peaceful.
“We are focused on work here. We are not aware of any ‘Nane Nane’ protests. Perhaps the unrest is happening in Nairobi and other areas, but here in Lamu, we are dedicated to nation-building,” said Japheth Kariuki, a construction worker.
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