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Safaricom Chapa Dimba Returns for Fifth Season with Global Exposure and Scholarship Opportunities

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Safaricom Chapa Dimba Returns for Fifth Season with Global Exposure and Scholarship Opportunities
Safaricom Chapa Dimba Returns for Fifth Season with Global Exposure and Scholarship Opportunities

Safaricom has officially launched Season Five of the Safaricom Chapa Dimba tournament, introducing new talent development pathways, international exposure opportunities, and education support aimed at transforming the future of youth football in Kenya.

The launch, held in Kisumu, marks another milestone for the grassroots football initiative that has become one of the country’s leading youth talent platforms since its inception in 2017.

This season, Safaricom says it is intentionally integrating sports, education, and technology to create broader opportunities for young players across the country.

Top Players to Represent Kenya at Gothia Cup

One of the biggest additions to Season Five is the introduction of a direct pathway to the prestigious Gothia Cup in Sweden.

Under the new structure, an All-Star team comprising 32 outstanding players selected from the tournament will represent Kenya at the global competition, widely recognized as the world’s largest youth football tournament.

The move replaces the international bootcamps that featured in previous seasons and instead focuses on structured international competition and wider global exposure.

Peter Ndegwa, Group CEO of Safaricom PLC, said the initiative aims to build holistic development pathways for young people.

“We are intentionally building pathways that combine sports, education, and technology to empower the next generation. Our goal is not just to develop footballers, but to nurture well-rounded young people who can positively transform their communities and the country,” he said.

150 Players to Benefit from Scholarships

Beyond football development, Safaricom has also expanded the tournament’s education component.

Under the Citizens of the Future programme, 150 outstanding players will receive tertiary education scholarships, reinforcing the company’s broader youth empowerment agenda.

The tournament has also lowered the player age category from 16–20 years to 15–18 years to support earlier talent identification and development into professional football structures both locally and internationally.

According to Safaricom, the revised age bracket aligns with international football development standards and improves opportunities for young players to transition into elite football pathways earlier.

Safaricom Chapa Dimba Returns for Fifth Season with Global Exposure and Scholarship Opportunities
Safaricom Chapa Dimba Returns for Fifth Season with Global Exposure and Scholarship Opportunities
AI and Digital Scouting Take Centre Stage

As part of its technology-driven approach, Safaricom PLC is also deepening the use of advanced scouting technology in grassroots football.

Following the rollout of AI-powered GPS vests in previous seasons, the tournament will now introduce:

  • VeO Cameras
  • MyScout AI devices
  • Digital player profiling systems

The technologies will track:

  • Player movement
  • Sprint metrics
  • Positioning
  • Match intensity
  • Overall performance

The data collected will help players create digital football profiles accessible to scouts and clubs globally.

“This season, we are taking technology deeper into grassroots football because we believe no talent should go unnoticed,” added Ndegwa.

Tournament to Cover Eight Regions

The tournament will run across eight regions nationwide and follow five competition stages:

  • Ward level
  • County level
  • Inter-county level
  • Regional level
  • National finals

Registration is currently open for both boys’ and girls’ teams through the official Chapa Dimba platform.

National winners in both categories will each receive KSh 1 million, while additional awards will recognize:

  • Most Valuable Player
  • Top Scorer
  • Best Goalkeeper

County and regional winners will also receive prizes.

Producing Kenya’s Next Football Stars

Since its launch, Safaricom Chapa Dimba has produced several players who now feature in professional football locally and internationally.

Notable alumni include:

  • Benson Omalla
  • Bryton Otieno
  • Jentrix Shikangwa
  • Marion Serenge
  • Mercy Akoth

Some former participants have also represented Kenya in international tournaments, including the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

Ultimately, Safaricom says the initiative continues to evolve beyond a football tournament into a long-term talent development platform designed to shape the future of Kenyan football while expanding opportunities for youth through education, technology, and sport.

NGEC Calls for Review of Police Recruitment Policies

Kipkemboi Collins
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NGEC Calls for Review of Police Recruitment Policies

The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) has called for a comprehensive review of police recruitment and training policies following controversy surrounding the discontinuation of recruits at the National Police Service training college in Kiganjo.

In a statement issued on May 10, the Commission said it had taken note of reports involving recruits removed from training due to forged academic documents, criminal records, disciplinary matters, health concerns, and pregnancy-related issues.

The Commission also acknowledged clarification from the National Police Service that affected female recruits were already pregnant before reporting to the training college and that the pregnancies were not linked to misconduct within the institution.

According to NPS, the physically intensive nature of police training raised safety concerns for pregnant recruits.

The Commission recognised that police training involves rigorous physical endurance, tactical readiness, field drills, weapons handling, and operational deployment preparation.

Constitutional and Legal Concerns Raised
However, NGEC stated that the matter presents larger constitutional and policy concerns about equality, fairness, and administrative procedures in the recruiting framework.

The Commission also stated that recent court rulings regarding the legitimacy and mandate of recruiting procedures conducted by the National Police Service Commission in 2025 raise systemic questions about openness, legality, and constitutional compliance.

Citing Article 27 of Kenya’s 2010 Constitution, the Commission stated that all people are given equality before the law and protection against discrimination, including discrimination based on gender, pregnancy, health status, and socioeconomic position.

NGEC stated that the present dispute highlights a serious policy deficiency in Kenya’s police recruiting and training structure.

According to the Commission, there is insufficient clarity, consistency, and public communication regarding recruitment eligibility, deferment mechanisms, and the handling of pregnancy within disciplined services.

NGEC Calls for Review of Police Recruitment Policies
NGEC Calls for Review of Police Recruitment Policies

The Commission argued that the constitutional issue at hand is not whether pregnancy affects participation in intense exercise, but whether the State has a legitimate, humane, reasonable, and non-discriminatory framework for dealing with such situations.

It cautioned that vague recruiting standards and contradictory administrative judgments might give rise to allegations of discrimination, arbitrary treatment, and constitutional breaches.

Call for Policy Review and Reform
NGEC is now calling for reforms aimed at aligning police recruitment and training policies with constitutional principles on equality, human dignity, and fair administrative action.

The Commission also recommended broader public participation and consultations involving oversight agencies, gender experts, security sector actors, medical professionals, and human rights stakeholders.

Among the proposals put forward are clearer pre-recruitment disclosure requirements, medical assessment standards, deferment and re-admission mechanisms, safeguards for maternal health, and protection against arbitrary exclusion.

The Commission further called for enhanced transparency in recruitment processes, particularly following repeated cases involving forged documents, criminal records, and post-recruitment vetting failures.

 

 

Kenya Airways Confirms Flight Diversions Due to Reduced Visibility at JKIA

Kipkemboi Collins
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Kenya Airways Confirms Flight Diversions Due to Reduced Visibility at JKIA

Kenya Airways has confirmed that two of its regional flights were temporarily diverted on the morning of May 10, 2026, due to poor visibility caused by fog at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport runway.

In an update released by the airlines, Kenya Airways stated that the diversions were made as a safety precaution after weather conditions affected visibility during approach to the airport.

According to the Airways, KQ Flight 739 from Lilongwe and KQ Flight 709 from Harare were both diverted to Kilimanjaro International Airport.

Flights Safely Returned to Nairobi
The airline explained that the diversions were temporary and were undertaken to ensure the safety of passengers and crew while visibility conditions at JKIA improved.

“Following improvement in weather conditions and visibility in Nairobi, both flights safely returned and landed at JKIA,” the statement read.

Kenya Airways further noted that the diversions resulted in a few delays affecting only its regional routes. The airline said it is actively working to minimise disruption to its flight schedule and support affected passengers through regular communication updates and alternative travel arrangements where necessary.

Kenya Airways Confirms Flight Diversions Due to Reduced Visibility at JKIA
Kenya Airways Confirms Flight Diversions Due to Reduced Visibility at JKIA
Apologies for Delays
Kenya Airways also apologised to passengers for the inconvenience caused by the delays and thanked them for their patience and understanding as operations return to normal.

“We sincerely apologise to our guests for the inconvenience caused and appreciate their patience and understanding as we work to restore normal operations,” the airline stated.

Kenya Airways emphasised that safety remains its highest priority in all operations.

“The safety of our guests and crew remains our top priority,” the statement added.

The temporary diversions came amid reduced visibility conditions experienced in Nairobi on Sunday morning, which affected aircraft approaches into JKIA.

 

13 Arrested in Trans Nzoia Crackdown on Criminal Gang Activities

Kipkemboi Collins
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13 Arrested in Trans Nzoia Crackdown on Criminal Gang Activities

The National Police Service has reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling criminal gangs that continue to threaten peace and disrupt livelihoods across the country.

In a security operation conducted in Trans Nzoia County, a multi-agency team arrested 13 suspects linked to criminal gang activities and related offences in the Gitwamba area.

The operation, carried out yesterday, forms part of ongoing efforts by security agencies to restore law and order in areas affected by gang-related crimes.

Police said criminal gangs continue to undermine public confidence through acts of violence, theft, intimidation, vandalism, and other unlawful activities.

NPS noted that such activities not only threaten public safety but also interfere with normal day-to-day livelihoods within communities.

Police Intensify Intelligence-Led Operations
The latest crackdown highlights the continued focus on intelligence-led operations aimed at identifying and apprehending individuals involved in organised criminal activities.

According to the National Police Service, the multi-agency operation in Gitwamba was successful and resulted in the arrest of 13 suspects believed to be connected to the criminal networks operating in the area.

The National Police Service stated that it will continue intensifying operations targeting criminal gangs and individuals involved in unlawful activities.

The Service further emphasised that restoring peace and maintaining security remains a key priority, particularly in regions experiencing increased gang-related incidents.

13 Arrested in Trans Nzoia Crackdown on Criminal Gang Activities
13 Arrested in Trans Nzoia Crackdown on Criminal Gang Activities
Public Urged to Support Security Agencies
Police also called on members of the public to cooperate with security agencies by sharing information that could assist in combating crime.

NPS noted that community support remains critical in helping law enforcement agencies identify suspicious activities and maintain peace within neighbourhoods.

Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through emergency numbers 999 and 911.

The latest arrests come as security agencies continue to increase surveillance and intelligence gathering in efforts aimed at curbing organised crime and improving public safety.

The National Police Service reiterated that it remains committed to ensuring individuals involved in criminal activities are identified, apprehended, and prosecuted in line with the law.

 

Kenya Airways Confirms Cape Town–Nairobi Flight Disruption After Bird Strike Incident

Kipkemboi Collins
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Kenya Airways Confirms Cape Town–Nairobi Flight Disruption After Bird Strike Incident

Kenya Airways has confirmed a service disruption affecting its Cape Town–Nairobi route following a bird strike incident involving one of its aircraft.

In a written statement issued by the airlines, Kenya Airways said the aircraft operating from Nairobi to Cape Town experienced a bird strike upon arrival in Cape Town earlier in the day.

The airline stated that the aircraft landed safely at Cape Town International Airport at approximately 1:55 p.m. However, after a technical assessment, the aircraft was declared Aircraft on Ground (AOG) due to significant damage to the radome.

The incident subsequently affected the return flight from Cape Town back to Nairobi, leading to operational disruption on the route.

Safety Procedures and Maintenance Underway
According to the airline, the aircraft is currently undergoing the necessary inspections and maintenance procedures in line with standard operational and safety requirements.

Kenya Airways said its technical teams are working around the clock to restore the aircraft and recover operations. The airline expects the aircraft to return to Nairobi within the next 24 hours.

The carrier also noted that efforts are ongoing to minimise disruption to its schedule while supporting affected passengers through communication updates and alternative travel arrangements where applicable.

Kenya Airways Confirms Cape Town–Nairobi Flight Disruption After Bird Strike Incident
Kenya Airways Confirms Cape Town–Nairobi Flight Disruption After Bird Strike Incident
Customer Communication and Support
In the statement, Kenya Airways acknowledged the inconvenience caused to passengers as a result of the disruption.

The airline said it is actively engaging affected customers with updates on travel arrangements as it works to restore normal operations on the route.

“We sincerely apologise to our guests for the inconvenience caused and appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to restore normal operations,” the statement read.

The incident highlights the operational impact bird strikes can have on airline schedules, particularly when aircraft sustain technical damage requiring immediate inspection and repair before further operations can continue.

 

Karua Faults Kenya Kwanza on Healthcare and Infrastructure

Kipkemboi Collins
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Karua Faults Kenya Kwanza on Healthcare and Infrastructure

People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua has intensified her criticism of the Kenya Kwanza administration during the party’s tour of Tharaka Nithi and Embu counties, calling on Kenyans to “Ondoa wakulaji, weka wafanyikazi.”

Speaking to residents in Chiakariga, Karua described the state of infrastructure and healthcare as a betrayal of public trust and a growing regional crisis. She accused the government of prioritising public ceremonies over actual service delivery.


Karua Criticises Healthcare System and SHA
Karua said public hospitals remain under-equipped despite consistent deductions under the Social Health Authority (SHA). She argued that many Level 5 hospitals exist “only by name,” lacking medicines, equipment, and adequate staffing.

“A mother in labour should not have to pray the road is passable before she reaches help and a family should not have to choose between buying medicine and eating,” she said.

She added that every Kenyan seeking treatment in a public hospital should find medicine available, emergency services functioning, and healthcare workers properly supported. Karua maintained that SHA should work for patients and promised reforms under her proposed administration.

Karua also referenced the Economic Survey 2026 by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, claiming it reflects a worsening healthcare crisis. According to her, SHA is spending nearly twice what it collects while still failing to deliver services effectively.

She compared the former National Hospital Insurance Fund’s 83.2 percent payout ratio with SHA’s reported 158.6 percent utilisation rate, warning that fiscal discipline has collapsed under the current system.

Karua Faults Kenya Kwanza on Healthcare and Infrastructure
Karua Faults Kenya Kwanza on Healthcare and Infrastructure
Infrastructure Delays and Leadership Concerns
The PLP leader further criticized delays surrounding infrastructure projects, particularly the proposed Ksh 7 billion Nithi Bridge project. Her remarks followed Deputy President Kithure Kindiki’s April 1 pledge on development in the region, including compensation plans for affected landowners.

Karua dismissed the delays as excuses, arguing that residents deserve functioning roads, properly funded hospitals, and support for farmers instead of repeated launch ceremonies and announcements.

“Leadership is not convoys and groundbreakings; it is delivering results,” she stated.

Call for Political Change Ahead of 2027
Calling for political change in 2027, Karua urged Kenyans to elect leaders focused on service delivery and accountability. She accused the current administration of announcing billions for projects while failing to complete basic development priorities.

She said her presidential bid is aimed at restoring systems within one term before handing leadership opportunities to younger leaders.

 

 

FBI Co-Deputy Director Visits DCI Headquarters as Kenya-US Security Ties Deepen

Kipkemboi Collins
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FBI Co-Deputy Director Visits DCI Headquarters as Kenya-US Security Ties Deepen

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) hosted the Co-Deputy Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Andrew Bailey, during a high-level visit to the DCI Headquarters at Mazingira Complex.

The visit marks another milestone in the longstanding partnership between the DCI and the FBI, coming nearly two years after the visit by former FBI Director Christopher Wray.

During the meeting, senior officials from both agencies held extensive discussions focused on strengthening cooperation in several key areas of law enforcement.

These included counterterrorism, cybercrime, transnational organised crime, financial fraud, human trafficking, narcotics trafficking, money laundering, and crimes against children.

Focus Turns to Technology and Emerging Threats
The discussions also revolved around increasing collaboration in digital forensics and developing tools for investigation.

Both agencies explored the use of artificial intelligence in investigations, cryptocurrency tracking, predictive analytics, and intelligence sharing as part of attempts to confront more complex criminal networks that operate across borders.

DCI Director Mohamed Amin praised the two agencies’ collaboration, stating that it has continued to yield operational results through cooperative investigations, extraditions, intelligence sharing, specialized training, and capacity-building programs.

He also acknowledged the support provided by the FBI and the United States government in strengthening the DCI’s investigative capabilities.

According to Amin, the support has included advanced forensic training, technical assistance, operational support, and the modernisation of investigative systems within the DCI.

FBI Co-Deputy Director Visits DCI Headquarters as Kenya-US Security Ties Deepen
FBI Co-Deputy Director Visits DCI Headquarters as Kenya-US Security Ties Deepen
Anti-Corruption and Capacity Building Highlighted
On his part, Bailey commended the DCI’s efforts in combating corruption, stating that strong anti-corruption initiatives are important in promoting investor confidence and supporting economic growth.

He also announced plans to strengthen the FBI Legal Attaché Office in Nairobi through the appointment of a Regional Transnational Anti-Corruption Programme Manager. The role is expected to enhance technical support and specialised training for investigators.

Bailey further recognised the contribution of Kenyan officers who have undergone training at the FBI National Academy, describing them as an important link in the enduring relationship between the two agencies.

FBI Co-Deputy Director Visits DCI Headquarters as Kenya-US Security Ties Deepen
FBI Co-Deputy Director Visits DCI Headquarters as Kenya-US Security Ties Deepen

He reaffirmed the FBI’s commitment to continued collaboration with the DCI, describing the two institutions as “equal partners” in advancing regional and international security.

The visit reaffirmed the growing alliance between the DCI and the FBI, anchored on mutual trust, professionalism, operational cooperation, and a shared commitment to addressing emerging global security threats.

 

MOH Issues Advisory Over Hantavirus Outbreak on Cruise Ship

Kipkemboi Collins
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MOH Issues Advisory Over Hantavirus Outbreak on Cruise Ship

The Ministry of Health through the Director General Doctor Patrick Amoth has issued a public health advisory following reports of a hantavirus outbreak linked to the cruise ship MV Hondius, currently traveling in the Atlantic Ocean.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), as of 7 May 2026, eight confirmed cases have been reported among passengers and crew, including three deaths.

Despite the outbreak, Amoth has assured Kenyans that there are currently no reported cases in the country and that the risk to the general public remains low.

Health authorities say they are closely monitoring the situation while taking precautionary measures to prevent any potential spread.

Understanding the Virus
Hantavirus is a disease mainly spread through contact with infected rodents, particularly rats and mice. Infection can occur through breathing in contaminated dust, touching contaminated surfaces, or handling rodents and their waste.

Doctor Amoth noted that in rare cases, a specific strain known as the Andes strain may spread between people through close contact.

Symptoms may appear between one and eight weeks after exposure. Common signs include fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting. Severe illness can develop into Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), a potentially life-threatening condition that causes breathing difficulties.

MOH Issues Advisory Over Hantavirus Outbreak on Cruise Ship
MOH Issues Advisory Over Hantavirus Outbreak on Cruise Ship
Government Response Intensifies
The Ministry of Health says it has activated precautionary measures to strengthen public safety.

Among the actions being undertaken are enhanced monitoring through WHO and international health partners, strengthened screening at airports and seaports, and alerts to health facilities to remain vigilant for symptoms among travelers.

The Director General also stated that rapid response and testing systems have been prepared in the event of suspected cases.

Public Urged to Take Precautions
Kenyans have been advised to maintain proper hygiene and avoid contact with rodents and their droppings.

The Ministry recommends keeping surroundings clean and free of rodents, storing food safely, disposing of waste properly, and washing hands regularly with soap and water.

Travellers returning from affected areas have been urged to monitor their health for up to eight weeks and report any symptoms to the nearest health facility immediately.

The advisory particularly emphasizes seeking urgent medical care in cases involving fever or breathing difficulties after recent travel.

Doctor Patrick Amoth also cautioned the public against spreading unverified information online and encouraged reliance on official updates from the Ministry of Health and WHO.

Doctor Amoth said the Ministry remains committed to safeguarding public health and will continue providing updates as the situation develops.

 

National Police College Explains Why 54 Police Recruits Were Discontinued

Kipkemboi Collins
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National Police College Explains Why 54 Police Recruits Were Discontinued

The Commandant of the National Police College in Kiganjo has outlined reasons why 54 recruits were discontinued after reporting in November 2025, despite having undergone vetting during the nationwide recruitment exercise.

In an address, Senior Assistant Inspector General Munga Nyale cited pregnancy-related cases, forged documents, health issues, disciplinary problems, previous convictions, and one voluntary exit due to illness as reasons for their discontinuation.

Pregnancy and Forged Certificates Top List
According to the Commandant, 18 recruits were discontinued due to pregnancy and related issues. Another 18 recruits were discontinued after being found with forged academic certificates.

The College also discontinued two recruits over forged identification documents.

Health-related conditions led to the discontinuation of two recruits, while disciplinary issues accounted for three cases.

In addition, 10 recruits were discontinued after previous convictions emerged during the training period.

One recruit voluntarily exited the programme due to sickness.

National Police College Explains Why 54 Police Recruits Were Discontinued
National Police College Explains Why 54 Police Recruits Were Discontinued
Recruits Had Passed Competitive Recruitment
Nyale said the recruits had reported to the College on 24th November 2025 after successfully passing through what he described as a highly competitive recruitment process.

He noted that the group had been selected from among many qualified applicants across the country.

The Commandant’s remarks highlighted the strict standards maintained at the training institution, particularly on matters relating to integrity, documentation, discipline, and suitability for service.

The discontinuations also point to continued scrutiny of recruits even after admission into training, with the College maintaining checks on compliance with recruitment requirements and conduct standards.

Cases involving forged academic certificates and fake identification documents formed a significant portion of the discontinuations, underscoring concerns around document verification during recruitment exercises.

Previous convictions also emerged as a major reason behind the removals, accounting for 10 of the 54 discontinued recruits.

The announcement sheds light on the internal review processes undertaken at the National Police College following recruitment and admission of trainees into the programme.

 

SHA Biometric Rollout Expands Nationwide

Kipkemboi Collins
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SHA Biometric Rollout Expands Nationwide

The Ministry of Health has intensified the rollout of biometric systems across healthcare facilities as part of efforts to strengthen real-time healthcare access and service delivery under the Social Health Authority (SHA).

Health CS Aden Duale said the government has already installed biometric systems in more than 5,000 health facilities, mainly in public hospitals across the country.

According to the CS, the Ministry is now preparing to roll out an additional 3,000 biometric devices by the beginning of next week. The expansion is expected to support faster patient identification and improve efficiency in health service delivery.

“We already have over 5,000 facilities with biometrics, but mainly the public facilities. But we are also going to roll out another 3,000 by the beginning of next week,” Duale said.

He noted that the required supplies have already been delivered in Nairobi, with the remaining task being the training of healthcare workers on the use of the system.

SHA Biometric Rollout Expands Nationwide
SHA Biometric Rollout Expands Nationwide

The biometric rollout is part of the government’s broader push to digitise healthcare services and improve access under SHA. Under the system, patients can be identified using fingerprints instead of physical cards.

“So that’s why you see SHA has no card. SHA is your thumb,” Duale stated.

Teachers Among Key Beneficiaries
The Ministry highlighted teachers as one of the major groups currently benefiting from the system.

Duale said over 43,000 teachers have already been served within the last five months, demonstrating the scale and efficiency of the platform.

“But I want to say to the Kenyan people that you can see the volume of teachers we have served in five months. As of today, we have served 43,000 teachers,” he said.

The CS added that the system operates in real time, enabling quicker verification and access to medical services for beneficiaries.

“Our system is real time. And Dr. Mangani and the whole team, they are all geared to make sure that we afford the best healthcare to our teachers,” he said.

He emphasised the important role teachers play in society, saying the government remains committed to ensuring they receive quality healthcare services.

“They take care of our children and we have no choice,” Duale added.

 

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