The recent political deal between Kibaki and Raila following two months of violence resulting from last year’s disputed elections has left Kenyans in deep reflection. Kumekucha readers and bloggers have recently initiated very insightful debates that examine our past with the singular aim of collectively chat a course for a united and prosperous Kenya.
Behind every suggestion on reshaping Kenya lies the call to foster unity in diversity. That Kenyan is a geographical accident populated by over 40 different nations is not unique to Africa. That same fact is also a principal cause of the continent’s perennial wars. Politicians have consequently exploited our ethnic differences to advance their selfish courses and resulting in very devastating tensions ready to explode at the spark the drop of a hat.
Most present great nations emerged from ashes of destruction and we can equally seize the present crisis to put Kenya on the right pedestal to EQUITABLE and sustainable prosperity. The success of such a venture is only possible with a new constitution that galvanizes Kenyan aspirations by recognizing her strengths to overcome commensurate weaknesses. But a constitution is as good as the people it is authored for. Kenyans must re-examine and define the basics to anchor their country’s success. Sample these three scenarios reflecting our sense of industry and success.
Warped sense of industry
Three Kenyan contractors (A B and C) are bidding to repair a government building. All the three are invited to view the building at the same same time by the PS in the ministry of Roads and Works. Contractor A rolls his sleeves with tools in hand then works some figures with a pencil. "Well", he says, "I figure the job will run about KES 9m – KES 4m for materials, KES 4m for my crew and KES 1m my profit."
Contractor B follows and does his thing with his tools too then says, "I can do this job for KEs 7m – KES 3m for materials, KES 3m for my crew and KES 1m my profit." Lastly contractor C makes no physical examination of the building in question but leans over to the PS and whispers, "KES 27 m." The astonished PS promptly asks, "You didn't did no examination like the other guys, how did you come up with such a high figure?". Contractor C whispers back, "KES 10m for me, KES 10m for you and we hire contractor B to do the job." To which the PS promptly responds "Done!".
Well folks unfortunately that is how it all works and we pride ourselves being industrious. True, there are exceptions to the above but that doesn’t make it any rosier. Kenyans generally live a life whose success is premised on DEALS, MORE DEALS and cutting corners. In the process we unwittingly rape our own country dry to feather our personal nests while complaining loudest about corruption. I guess this the unique Kenyan version of industry and success.
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