1. Ali Hussein-The TV show kick
ardent radio started my
listener from law career
Thika -P5 -P7
Vol. 08 Issue N0: 7
September 1 - September 15, 2012. (Shawwal 14, 1433 A.H) www.thenewdawn.info
Give public more
time to scrutinize
anti-terrorism bill
By Hassan Ole Naado
T
he Prevention of Terrorism
Bill, 2012 is at an advanced
stage in the parliamentary
process that is expected to
enact it into law.
By the first week of September,
the Bill had already gone through
the First Reading in the National
Assembly, and had been presented to the
parliamentary departmental committee
on administration and national security
for scrutiny before taking it to the next
level in the legislative process.
While in the hands of the committee,
the Bill was required to undergo a very
important process— public access and
participation pursuant to Article 118 of Al Amin Kimathi and Hassan Omar consulting during a recent forum to discuss the anti-terror bill in Nairobi,
the constitution. right is Farouq Machanja. The forum was organised by MUHURI.
Article 118 enjoins Parliament to days to prepare memoranda and submit
conduct its business in an open and them to the committee. HIGHLIGHTS IN THE PREVENTION OF TERRORISM BILL, 2012
transparent manner by holding its sittings Whereas it is important for Anyone convicted of Mobile phone companies
and those of its committees in public Parliament to dispatch its legislative terrorism will be sent to jail and banks will be required
and facilitating public participation and agenda with speed, it is easy for one to for life. to work closely with
involvement in legislative matters. notice that the time allocated for public government agencies to
In this regard, an August 31 press participation, especially in view of the Those suspected of being help in interception of
notification issued by the National Prevention of Terrorism Bill, was too terrorists will have their communication and tracking
Assembly called upon interested groups little for any group or individual to have properties seized. of transactions in the accounts
and the general public to present their prepared meaningful memoranda on this of terror suspects.
views on the anti terrorism bill by the end sensitive proposed legislation. Those who shelter terror suspects, provide training premises, fund-
of business on September 4, 2012— raise and recruit youths into terror groups will be jailed for up to
meaning that the public had only four Continued on Pg 2 30 years.

2. 2 / National News The New Dawn
September 1 - September 15, 2012.
Good tidings as Gulf African Bank numbers show growth
By Iddi Musyemi in the first quarter to close at Sh124 CSR project from the list provided by “We are very pleased with our
M compared to Sh95.3 M for the full bank staff that the bank should support results for the first half of 2012 which
financial year of 2011; 37.0 % increase from the proceeds of the campaign. continues to affirm that our three year
Gulf African Bank (GAB), Kenya’s in financing arrangements to customers During the grand draw the CSR Forward Together strategy is gathering
premier Shari’ah compliant bank has from Sh6.2 B as at 30th June 2011 to project with the highest number of momentum. Our renewed customer
announced its unaudited results for the close at Sh8.54 B as at 30th June 2012; nominations will be supported by the focus has already begun to provide
half year ending June 30, 2012 showing 20.7% growth in customer deposits to bank. The bank is also giving ipads results in the very short term. We
a remarkable 452% growth in income close at Sh11.1 B as at 30th June 2012 & cash prizes to monthly mini draw are working to ensure that the trend
before tax compared to the same period from Sh6.2 B as at 30th June 2011. winners. The grand prize is a trip for continues in the months ahead,” says
last year. Building on its track record as two to Hajj to perform their religious Asad Ahmed, Director & CEO of Gulf
According to a press release dated the industry leader, the Bank recently obligations or cash equivalent for a non- African Bank.
August 23, notable highlights compared launched a unique deposit mobilization Muslim. GAB is a pioneering Islamic Bank in
to 2011include profit before tax of campaign Inua Akiba, Inua Jamii. This With 14 branches in a span of four the entire East African region offering
Sh195 M for the first six months of campaign is skewed towards Corporate years of operation, the GAB continues products that address the needs of
2012 compared to Sh155 M for the full Social Responsibility (CSR ) hence Inua to focus on its expansion strategy not just Muslims but everyone in the
financial year of 2011; growth of net Akiba Inua Jamii. Requesting customers throughout Kenya with the opening of country through fair, safe and ethical
income after tax by annualized 161% both existing and new to nominate a two new branches by end of 2012. practices.
Public should be given time to scrutinize anti-terrorism bill
Continued from Pg 1 worry about the anti-terrorism bill. But
a careful analysis of some provisions
of this bill should send all Kenyans,
There is no doubt that makers Muslim or non-Muslim, jumping out
of our constitution framed Article of their skins.
118 to allow public participation in For example, Part IV of the
order to ensure that laws made by our proposed legislation which deals with
legislators also reflect the wishes of the investigation of offences appears
people who are governed by those laws. to give a police officer of any rank
In essence, makers of the constitution unfettered discretion to arrest and
intended to ensure that the law serves detain any person the officer in
the people and not the people serving question believes to have committed
the law. or is committing an offence under the
In this regard, the question that Act.
arises in view of the anti terrorism Whereas the bill speaks of
bill is— what will be the fate of a “reasonable grounds” as the basis
law that did not get adequate public upon which a police officer can arrest
participation? and detain a person believed to have
The answer is simple and committed is committing an offence
straight— the law will be viewed with under the Act, the proposed law is very
suspicion and, to the extreme, receive vague on what constitutes ‘reasonable
stiff resistance from a skeptical public. grounds.’ Such a provision can be
If this could be the fate of the misused by security agents to harass
anti-terrorism bill, does it justify a anyone—Muslim or non-Muslim.
review of the time allocated for public In fact, it can be misused to settle
Acting Internal Security Minister Yusuf Haji (center) confers with a fellow
participation? The answer is; yes. scores in political competition the way
worshipper during Idd prayers. Haji tabled the anti-terrorism bill in
Indeed, terrorism is a very complex parliament.
anti-terrorism provisions have been
and emotional issue and that is why used against opposition politicians in
previous attempts to introduce a law the bill was also introduced at a time of the constitutional safeguards that Uganda and Rwanda.
to fight terrorism in Kenya have always when the environment was poisoned Muslims had hoped to use to ensure These are, therefore, the kind of
generated controversy. with emotions resulting from the war they have their say in the proposed issues on which the public should be
In the first year of the Kibaki the United States government had legislation and that no constitutionally given sufficient time to have discussions
administration, the Suppression of launched against global terrorism— guaranteed rights are violated. around and present meaningful views
Terrorism Bill 2003 generated a lot of characterized by the invasion of Iraq However, given the little time provided on, such that when the bill is finally
controversy leading to its suspension and Afghanistan. for public participation, there is cause enacted into law, the people are in
and eventual discarding. Muslims It was, therefore, prudent to to worry that some mischief may be agreement on what it means to fight
were the ones who, particularly, voiced suspend the anti-terrorism bill then allowed to skulk through the net of terrorism.
opposition to the Bill because it with a promise to re-introduce it at a legislative vigilance in the name of In this regard, the parliamentary
contained provisions, which if passed, time of sobriety. speeding up the legislative agenda. committee dealing with this Bill may
would have encouraged wholesale This year, when the country has a Besides, the tensions that still have to consider extending the time
condemnation of communities, new constitution, seemed to be the best prevail in the coastal town of within which interested parties can
organizations and families as terrorists. time to re-introduce the anti-terrorism Mombasa and its environs have submit their views on how best to fight
It is also important to note that bill because the new supreme law destructed very many interested parties terrorism.
Muslims opposed the anti-terrorism takes care of the fears Muslims have who would have liked to present their And who knows, some people
bill in 2003 because they felt they always expressed over attempts to enact views on this Bill. could have very good ideas that would
were the specific target of the punitive legislation to fight terrorism. There is also the misguided go a long way in dealing with this
provisions contained there-in. Besides, Provisions of Article 118 are some thinking that only Muslims should menace in a more effective manner.

3. The New Dawn
September 1 - September 15, 2012. /3
COUNTY BRIEFS
You can do more, Imams and madrassa teachers told
By Mbarak Abucheri day problems, a role which the communities leaders in the community and participate to come out and seek leadership positions
expected from them as leaders. in programmes which will contribute to created by the new constitution for the
He urged the spiritual leaders to actively the development of your areas” said Sheikh minority groups.
KAKAMEGA: Imams and madrassa participate in the welfare of orphans and Chemaswet noting that good relations with The event, organized by Inter-Religious
teachers in Western province have widows, youth empowerment, addressing all people including non-Muslims would Council of Kenya (IRCK) in partnership
been urged not to limit their roles poverty levels, HIV/Aids challenges and contribute positively to their areas. with Supkem, brought together over 50
to mosques and Muslim schools other social problems. Supkem provincial chairman Sheikh people including Imams, maalims, youth and
only but get involved in community “You also need to engage with other Abdi Swaleh called on Muslims in the region women leaders and health workers.
projects to promote health awareness
and reduction of child mortality.
Speaking at a health awareness
day workshop for Imams and
madrassa teachers at Kakamega Jamia
Mosque and Islamic Centre, Supreme
Council of Kenya Muslims (Supkem)
national treasurer Sheikh Abubakar
Chemaswet regretted that Imams and
maalims were limiting their roles to
the walls of mosques and madrassas
only.
“Your role is not limited to
prayers only. You have much larger
roles to play in society and this
should reflect in your activities,” he
said in the event which he was the
guest of honor.
Sheikh Chemaswet asked
Imams to use their positions in their
communities to help solve day-to-
Annulled NEP
2011 KCSE
exams to be
re-marked
By Abdinoor Aden
GARISSA: There may be a re-mark
of the cancelled 2011 examinations
if the recommendations made by a
parliamentary committee are adopted.
The Committee on Education
Research and Technology has
recommended that students who will
be found innocent should be given
their results.
The committee was petitioned
by Dujis MP Adan Duale in March
after the cancelation of results which
affected about 3,000 students in
the North Eastern Province as 40
secondary schools out of 60 were
penalised.
The students were either
suspected by Kenya National
Examinations Council (KNEC) of
collusion or possessing unauthorized
materials in examination rooms.
The committee, chaired by
Mosop MP David Koech, said that
cartels within KNEC were responsible
for examination malpractices and
recommended an overhaul of the
council.

4. The New Dawn
4/ September 1 - September 15, 2012.
Peace and Security for
Development (PSD) Programme
Lessons from Tana River and Mombasa
violence calls for rethinking of PSD strategy
with the generous support of well-meaning Coast region, which has now proved beyond
development partners, and the partner reasonable doubt that it is indeed a security
organizations, which include Kenya Muslim fault line.
Youth Alliance (KMYA), have invested An analysis of events preceding the
immense material and human resources violence in Tana River and Mombasa reveals
in civic education engagements aimed at that there was sufficient intelligence, which, if
promoting peaceful co-existence in this acted upon promptly by relevant authorities,
multi-ethnic, multi-cultural and multi- would have at least reduced the magnitude of
religious programme. the crises, if not avert them.
But the recent inter-ethnic violence in But as PSD partners have often always
Tana River and the deadly street protests in pointed out in their reports, there is always a
Mombasa which later assumed the character failure by the government security apparatus
of an inter-religious conflict should prompt to act promptly on intelligence reports, thus
PSD partners to rethink their strategies. leaving isolated incidents of violence to
Indeed, the magnitude of the violence in snowball into full-blown conflicts.
Tana River and Mombasa where the PSD Besides, the current overall administrative
programme has been running must have structures in the civilian security apparatus
caught many, including the PSD partners seem to have contributed to the failure by
themselves, by surprise. The violence those apparatus to respond effectively to
experienced in the last one week in these threats of violence.
Tana River clashes have been triggered by competition for resources, but two areas should be used by PSD network For example, almost all the top
there are underlying political issues that must be addressed openly. members to re-strategize their community bureaucrats in charge of national security,
outreach activities and engagement in order beginning from the minister, head of public
By Aisha Adan scores of innocent women and children to improve delivery on the programme’s service and permanent secretary, are all
as the case was in Tana River, and the near objectives. holding their positions in acting capacity.
anarchical street protests in Mombasa that But learning from the lessons provided On the other hand, the looming changes in
saw rioting mobs attack churches and security by the violence in Tana River and Mombasa, the Kenya Police Service and the provincial
officers following the killing of Muslim cleric it may be imperative for the PSD partners
T
administration have left many duty bearers on
he month of August, infamously Sheikh Aboud Rogo. to transform the PSD programme to be a matters of national security uncertain about
referred to as the jinxed month for The Tana River inter-ethnic violence vehicle that can take the various communities their future in employment, thus killing their
Kenyans, saw yet another round and the deadly protests in Mombasa should, in Coast Province to an environment of morale in executing their duties effectively at
of sad moments as certain prominent particularly, arouse great concern among peaceful co-existence irrespective of their this point in time when the country is headed
personalities passed on peacefully while tens partner organizations in the Peace and ethnic, religious and cultural differences. to yet another high-stakes General Election.
of ordinary folks died in various parts of the Security for Development (PSD) programme How that transformation would be In view of the foregoing, it is high time
country through acts of violence. and other key civil society players in the achieved is a matter the PSD partners should PSD partners held urgent consultations on
The most notable incidents were the region including Yes Youth Can (YYC) discuss among themselves and with the how to re-strategize the Peace and Security
inter-ethnic bloodletting in North Eastern initiative. development partners in order to come up for Development programme so that it can
and Coast provinces where communities The PSD programme has been running with a more concrete and effective strategy meet the new challenges emerging in the
suddenly turned against each other, killing in the Coast Province for close to five years that would ensure peaceful coexistence in the Coast region.
This message is sponsored by the Peace, Security for Development (PSD) programme which is undertaken by
the Kenya Muslim Youth Alliance in partnership with the Royal Danish Embassy. The views expressed herein
emerged purely from activities of the PSD programme itself and do not in any way represent
the position of the Danish Embassy.
Meanwhile, Kenya Muslim Youth Alliance thanks the Royal Danish Embassy for supporting
this column over the years.
Kenya Muslim Youth Alliance, P.O Box 27592-00100, Nairobi-Kenya. Tel:254-(0)20-3861530/1
Email:info@kenyamuslims.org Website:www.kenyamuslims.org

5. The New Dawn
September 1 - September 15, 2012. Feature/ 5
Why this radio fan ticks
Hardly a day goes by without this radio programmes enthusiast
featuring in talk shows, thus making his a household name.
By Iddi Musyemi
A
li Hussein talks about radio as
you would of a good friend. If
you are wondering where you
have heard this name, he is one
of the most active contributors to 95.1 Iqra
FM’s interactive programmes who calls from
Thika.
‘Ali Kenya’ as he is fondly referred to by
radio Iqra FM salaam fans, his person does
not match his voice. With a strong built
body and a height approximately of 5’5”, it
is unbelievable that he has a boyish voice. He
clears this out and says that he has been faced
with this enigma many times before and
proceeds swiftly to talk about his interests in
radio.
This friendship, Ali says, has developed
over a period of time and very soon he hopes
to commit to it. He was happy to be where he could get
“I want to be a radio news presenter,” he what he wanted by tuning in.
intimates. With his contributions, he believes But this husband to Fatma Abdalla and
that his dreams will soon become a reality. father of a 10 month old baby boy does not
Ali, 26, tells of how he loves reading just sit at home to listen to his radio. He is
newspapers to those who have time to listen. employed in Thika and when he is not at
It makes him feel like he is working on his work he tends to his leased farm growing
childhood dreams. vegetables for sale at major towns.
He wants to be ready so that when the Neither has he limited his social life to
opportunity comes for him to be inside a those he meets on the radio only. Ali, by the
studio, he wouldn’t be afraid. way he interacts with his neighbours, you
As many people regard radio as no more can tell he has a good relation with all. His
than a wireless communication receiver, warm interaction with people of Gatukuyu,
Ali sees it as a social contraption. To him just outside Thika town, underlines the good
the radio has made it possible for people, welcome accorded to him and his young
including friends and strangers, to share family.
opinion on topical issues, talk and listen to “They call me Hajj or Msumeno,” which
each other with the help of FM stations. is fine with him as those are the two names
An ardent fan of Iqra FM, salaams he is popularly known by.
(greetings) programme is his most favourite Situated 30 minutes from Thika town
though he makes contributions through call- Gatukuyu is a rural place with lush farming
in sessions to offer his opinion on various lands and the Muslim community is sparse
topical issues. in this area.
He says when he started listening to Iqra Ali describes the number of Muslims as
FM he felt at home and caught some sort of “not enough to make Jamaa (congregation)
need rather than want to be turning his radio during prayer times” in the community.
on and tuning to Nairobi’s only Muslim What he would have been getting from
station. Now he does not think whether he mosque sermons’ and Friday prayers, he gets
can go a day without listening. from his radio. (Top) Ali Hussein during the interview and (Inset) with his favourite radio
To prove his point he tells of a story “I get to hear Muslim concerns on the unit that has made him famous.
when he had to quit his job to be near where radio, get my knowledge from there, and also
he could tune in without much of a hustle. mawaidha.” “All that is remaining right now is just If all goes well for him, he says, he will
“I was employed in Limuru in a Ali has also picked up a passion for recording which I am in short of funds be at the level of Aisha Omar and Nur Said
pharmacy but while there I found that I poetry. He says he has already composed a currently.” who are both presenters at Iqra FM and he
couldn’t tune to Iqra,” he says. number of kaswidas and other poems. While he does not aim for fame, he says has come to grow to liking them.
“So in order to quit the job and go back While none of them has been made he has somehow become one in the circle It is only then he will realise that what
to Thika, I made up a reason that the pay was public, he promises to do something very of Iqra fans. He is a member of the Al-Iqra started as a simple friendship bloomed into
too little and demanded at least Sh50,000. soon to entertain Muslim community with group which draws its membership from something more meaningful that he would
The owner of the place had to let me go.” his work. other Iqra FM listeners. have ever imagined.

6. The New Dawn
6 / Editorial September 1 - September 15, 2012.
Commentary|Iddi Musyemi
Ban on holiday tuition will
allow pupils time for madrassa
The New Dawn is published twice a month.
Kenya Muslim Youth Alliance,
H
Waiyaki Way, Nairobi.
P.O Box 27592-00100, Nairobi-Kenya. olidays are over. Children stronger is the market for vice and I wouldn’t be very surprised if day
Tel:254-(0)20-4445518/0732 550 440 will be going back to immoralities. school students are called back to
Email: editor@thenewdawn.info school from one of the There was time for many things school on Sundays.
Website:www.thenewdawn.info relaxing holidays ever. This time to families. But one of the most positive
Shawwal 14, 1433 A.H round, the government through The cause for the banning effects I expect to have come
the ministry of education actually of holiday tuitions was to allow from the law is the opportunity
Kenya needs to enforced a law banning holiday
tuitions.
children to have time to relax in
other things, not necessarily play
that children this time went to
madrassa.
invest continuously That is why I call it one of the
relaxing holidays ever.
only. The argument by opponents
of the law that holidays were the
The ban did not come anywhere
near Muslim religious schools.
in peace and security But before we lose ourselves to
the cause and effects of the ban
only time to finish the syllabus
and revise did not go well with the
While there is no universal
method in use to measure what
A s the countdown to the General Elections draws nearer, to the school candidates, Muslim ministry of education. children learn in these Muslim
the socio-political climate in Kenya appears to be taking parents may want to think deeper In fact the ministry believed schools, the possibility of a child
a worrying trend. Events of the last three months about the, well I should say, the that the tuitions had everything to knowing how to read Arabic can be
especially in North Eastern and Coastal parts of the country advantage the ban offered. do with commerce than they had most of the time satisfying. Islam is
are reminiscent of the interethnic clashes of 1992 and 1997 Think about it, parents have with academic. To enforce this law, an Arabic revelation after all!
as well as the infamous post-election violence experienced in been complaining about never the government has turned back There is possibility that the ban
2008. having enough time with their kids from schools in both public is here to stay. If this is so, then the
First, the formerly outlawed Mombasa Republican Council children. Muslim parents’ concerns and private institutions. challenge is to the madrassa systems
(MRC) with its “Pwani si Kenya” secessionist agenda had stemmed from the fact that their The full effects of the law may to be calibrated into institutions
been a big threat to national security before it was sagaciously children had no time to attend only be known at the release of of excellence which are open to the
handled by the Judiciary and advised to pursue its agenda
madrassa schools, which is essential results for the 2012 examinations whole society not only Muslims.
through constitutional avenues.
The Garissa grenade explosions where several people lost for learning Islam. next year. Muslims have endured loses to
lives in church had the potential of drawing the country into This August there was an ample I believe when candidates go the secular system of education.
interreligious tension had both Muslim and Christian religious time and opportunity for parents to back to school there will be so Here now there is an opportunity
leaders not acted swiftly and resolved the issue by declaring that take their children to madrassas. much confusion. It will be a tiring to claw back some time and use
these were criminal acts which had nothing to do with religion. There was time for madrassa race against time as the academic it to their advantage. When our
The most recent inter-clan clashes between the Garre teachers to answer the many blank giants scramble to not complete children go back to schools, I
and Dagodia clans in Mandera and Wajir counties apparently questions on children’s eyes in their syllabus but also have enough expect all maalims will be going
caused by political rivalry for county positions tends to indicate matters of their religious and moral time to revise. back to the drawing boards to
devolution of violence. Almost simultaneously happening, the responsibilities in a world where the It is going to be ugly for prepare for when the next holidays
inter-ethnic massacres pitting the pastoralist Orma against the only thing that seems to be growing teachers, students and even parents. come.
agriculturalist Pokomo in Tana River County presumably due
to conflicts over grazing land had all the potentials of taking
political dimensions.
Then comes the latest real test to Kenya’s security; the
Letters of the week
mysterious murder of Muslim preacher Aboud Rogo in
Mombasa which not only sparked violent demonstrations Interfaith issue Insecurity: Kenyans want
against the government but also risked developing into an
interreligious war between Muslims and Christians as churches was informative somebody accountable
were also targeted. Here again, religious leaders responded with
speed to cool tempers by assuring Kenyans that there was no I appreciate coverage on religious The recent chaos at coast has in Tana Delta and Wajir clashes
religious war in Kenya and that the violence must be treated as coexistence in your esteemed exposed the underbelly of Kenya’s have been settled.
any other criminal acts. newspaper that I received via email. security concerns. The violent Where are government security
What is clear about the aforementioned incidents of I had studied your paper deeply demonstrations followed the killing agencies when people are killing
insecurity is that either the government is still lacking in capacity and find it a very informative of Aboud Rogo who was facing each other in this country? Who
to maintain peace in the country or is not serious about it. and comprehensive newspaper. I charges in court in connection with should people hold to account
In most cases, politicians and provincial administration have
appreciated that you are giving good terror activities. on the very many atrocities being
been accused of responding a bit too late contrary to public
expectation. coverage to religious harmony & There was loss of life and committed against Kenyans?
This is a wake-up call that the country needs to appraise its peaceful coexistence; our think-tank damage to properties worth We need to see bigger heads
capacity to handle peace and security matters. Proper and well- has also been doing similar causes of millions not to forget the rolling in connection with chaos
funded institutions for promoting peace are necessary. The issue since 1995. reputation of the place known as all over the country, not just taking
of national peace and security is just too important to be left to I have also submitted my research holiday destination to many. some chiefs to court. The whole
religious leaders and village committees. article on Kashmir. I will be grateful In my suggestion this country system is failing good citizens
Provincial administration and security agencies must to your kind cooperation and media is working hard to destroy itself of this country, not to mention
be empowered through relevant training, equipment and support. as death follows its citizens in putting our lives and reputation in
communication infrastructure to enable them preempt any Tahir Tabassum Muhammad every corner when elections tend dangerous position.
threats to security or execute rapid response to incidents of President, Institute of Peace & to approach. The killing of Rogo Abdulkarim Osam,
violence anywhere in Kenya. Politicians need to be more Development (INSPAD), via Email. came hardly before the skirmishes Mvita-Mombasa.
accountable and responsible as many acts of violence have
political origins. The Judiciary must also institute stiff penalties DISCLAIMER: Views and opinions expressed in this paper are not necessarily those of The Kenya Muslim Youth Alliance.
to those accused of violence in order to serve as a lasting The Editor welcomes brief letters on topical issues.
deterrent to others. Tel:+254-(0)20-4445518 or 0732 550 440
In a nutshell, Kenyans should not take peace for granted. Email: editor@thenewdawn.info
Peace building and maintenance of security must be a Or SMS: 0710 30 08 48
The Editor reserves the right to edit all letters for length and clarity.
continuous duty whether there is war or not, elections or not.

7. Marhaba Fashion|P9
Heena Art: A painless way
to look beautiful
Marhaba
Saturday
September 1 - September 15, 2012. (Shawwal 14, 1433 A.H)
Kid’s Corner|P10
TV show
helped
kick-start
my career
in law
Born from a family with staunch Christian
background, Wambui gives an insight on
how she would not be the person she is
Wambui Kabage, a Nairobi-based advocate. today if she was not a Muslim...
By Ethel Omenda patient enough to watch a favourite headed to University of Wales in UK she says.
programme or talk shows, Fatuma and attained her first degree. She However, she is quick to comment
would wait for ‘Reasonable Doubt’ a returned to Kenya and headed to Kenya that in most cases these children are
television programme aired on one of School of Law for a Higher Diploma not actually guilty of the offences. She
C
Kenya’s TV stations. course and qualified as an advocate. states that it is always somebody who
hildhood can inspire vision The show is about a deaf woman Still not impressed about her has victimised them or just want to take
and dreams of what we wish lawyer who defends criminals and talk academic achievement, she went ahead advantage of the situation.
to be in later stages of life. of the rights of people. This show was and attained her Masters in Law at the Having a general practice as a lawyer
For others these are years inspirational to her. University of Sidney, Australia in 2005. has enabled her handle commercial
successful careers get crafted ready to As she talks to Marhaba, she says Wambui, 32, is now an advocate of law to Islamic marriages and divorces.
hit the launch pad. from watching the show, her interest the High Court of Kenya is proud of Fatuma says her participation in matters
From a young age, Wambui aspired in litigation matters began to take the positive impact the show had on of land succession to the court martial
to become a lawyer. As she grew up, shape. “The show talked about women her. Her dream career is now a reality as systems with the Kenyan armed forces
she was determined not to take up any and it is something that touched she is involved in some probona work has been a great experience.
other career path. me. I immediately got interested in at the children courts.
While her friends would be glued advocating for children and women “I tackle criminal cases for children Continued on Pg 8
on television watching cartoons, she rights.” specifically because I feel the criminal
on the other hand was interested in After completing her ‘A’ Levels at system is harsh on our children when To comment on this story go to:
something else. Just like one would be Braeburn School in Nairobi, Wambui they are faced with criminal offences,” www.thenewdawn.info

8. 8
The New Dawn
Marhaba|Cover Story September 1 - September 15, 2012.
TV show helped me chart my career
Continued from Pg 7
With her 12 years experience, she
gives her expertise opinion on the
high divorce rates among the Muslim
couples. “Unfortunately divorce
cases are on the rise. But I think it is
a general problem, not only plaguing
Muslims.”
According to this Nairobi based
lawyer, divorce often occurs when
people fail to understand their religion
and appreciate their responsibilities as
husbands and wives.
This results in inequality hence a
sense of injustice because one partner
feels he or she is being taken advantage
of. Therefore one party makes the
determination to move on. However,
she states that the lack of religious
knowledge as a community is one of
the contributing factors towards failed
marriages.
Interestingly, Wambui was born to
a family with a very staunch Christian
background. As a granddaughter of a Wambui Kabage makes her contribution at a recent forum.
Baptist reverend, she converted to Islam
in 2001.This was after her mother and proud of. Having been Muslim journey. It is a struggle that no man don’t really appreciate what they have.
who had a strong influence in her life for 12 years now she confesses that, “I or woman can understand the kind For Wambui, the hijab has so far
became a Muslim. don’t believe I would be the person I of journey you take when you start helped her in her career. “Wearing the
“I had been reading materials on am if I was not a Muslim.” wearing hijab.” hijab has actually benefited me because
Islam before and was curious to why Having accepted Islam she has Wambui’s appreciation goes to the I actually stand out and that helps in
mum reverted to Islam. That later led donned the hijab. The initial three years young Muslim girls who wear hijab my practise and other things.”
me to a lot of self-discovery, prayer and wearing the hijab were challenging to from puberty. She says these girls are Striking a balance between work
Allah led me to Islam.” Wambui and fortunately in 2005, she blessed in two ways. Her reasons are and family is quite challenging for every
Converting to Islam is a decision finally made a decision to start wearing because these girls have never suffered woman. Wambui is also a lecturer at the
she says she would forever be greatful it. “For me wearing hijab has been a the vanity of the world and so they Kenya School of Law. As a married
woman with two children and expecting
a third child, she definitely agrees that
balancing between the two is a huge
task. “You will never achieve balance.
All you need is to prioritise and try to
end in a place you feel your Maker is
happy with you.”
Wambui is also a managing partner
at the Ekuru Kabage Nyamathwe and
Company Advocates, a law firm in
Nairobi. As a young Muslim career
woman, she believes she is an example
to other young girls and women who
believe they can’t be career women
because they are Muslims.
Her advice to all Muslim women
is that, the strongest and powerful
force as a woman is to be a person of
conviction. Wambui advises that if one
is a Muslim, let her be a Muslim of
conviction. She adds that an individual
has to be a woman who believes in
their faith and why they are Muslim.
“Allah will then open doors you can’t
imagine.”
She concludes, saying that prayer is
essential as it is the only thing that can
get one through everything in life.

9. 9
The New Dawn
September 1 - September 15, 2012. Marhaba|Fashion
Heena Art
H O W A R T I S T I C PAT T E R N S
C A N T R A N S F O R M YO U
What you need to
know about Heena
H enna is a plant under the sole species in the
genus Lawsonia in the family Lythraceae and
come under different names in different parts
of the world. Heena is best known for its use to color and
condition the hair naturally.
The henna plant, grows in warm climates. The leaves
from the plant are crushed and make into a paste to safely
draw a design directly on the skin. The result of this
temporary tattoo, traditionally reddish brown in color,
will last from a few days to several weeks. The application
process is painless and in no way harms the skin.
The word “henna” comes from the Arabic name for the
plant, pronounced or colloquially. It is also an Islamic name
given to girls which means blessed.
How long does it last?
The design will look good for 1 to 2 weeks, fading
gradually within that time.
Factors determining this are:
• Depth of the stain
• Part of the body it is applied to
• Exposure to water, chemicals and rubbing
What is the color of the henna stain?
After the paste comes off, the stain color ranges from
orange to a dark reddish brown.
(Top and Left) Patterns and Henna alone does not produce a black stain. There are
designs that can be achieved several authentic additives or mixtures that give a black-
with heena. (Below) Heena dying henna, especially in north Africa. However, these
paste, powder and the plant, formulas could be toxic and unhealthy for the body.
Lawsonia inermis.
The darkness depends on the following:
• Part of the body it is applied to (the hands and
feet stain the darkest)
• Quality of the henna powder
• Quality of the application
• Amount of time the paste is left on (best to leave
it on for at least 4 hours)
How long does it take to do?
The length of sitting time ranges from 5 to 10 minutes
for a simple design up to several hours for a large body area
painted with an intricate deign. Although the painting itself
may take only a few minutes, the paste needs to be preserved
with a lemon-sugar solution which the artist applies after
the paste becomes firm on the skin about 15 minutes later.
Henna is applied to the top of the skin with an
applicator (the traditional cone or plastic bag or with a
bottle with a fine silver nozzle tip). Many people enjoy
the coolness of the paste as it is painted on along with the
further cooling of the lemon-sugar solution. The henna
paste is an all natural soothing, aromatic mixture that
conditions the skin.

10. 10 Marhaba|Kids Corner
The New Dawn
September 1 - September 15, 2012.
How much do you know about Let’s learn
the month of Shawwal? together...
Benefits of fasting six days
S
hawwal is the tenth There are also six days of Thus Prophet
month on the Lunar
Islamic calendar. The
fasting during Shawwal which,
together with the Ramadhan
Muhammad (SAW) said:
(He who observed the fast of
during the month
first day of Shawwal is Eid fasts, are equivalent to fasting Ramadhan and then followed of Shawwal
ul-Fitr. Shawwal means (lift perpetually). it with six (fasts) of Shawwal.
or carry). It would be as if he fasted According to hadiths narrated by Abu Dawud, Ahmad, Ibn
The Islamic perpetually), narrated by Majah, Muslim & Tirmidhi; Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said:
calendar is a lunar Muslim. (He who fasts Ramadan, and six of Shawwal, it will be (in terms of
calendar, and Shawwal is the first of rewards) as if the fasted a whole year).
Another important benefit of fasting six days of Shawwal is to
months begin the three months named
makes up for any shortfall in a person’s obligatory Ramadan fasting,
when the first as (Ashhur al-Hajj) (The because no one is free of shortcomings or sins that have a negative
crescent of a months of Hajj). Although effect on his fasting. On the Day of Resurrection, some of his naafil
new moon is the major acts of Hajj are (voluntary) deeds will be taken to make up the shortcomings in his
sighted. Since normally performed in the obligatory deeds.
the Islamic first ten days of Dhul-Hajj, The Holy Prophet (SAW) said: (The first thing for which people
lunar calendar yet the whole period starting will be brought to account on the Day of Resurrection will be their
year is 11 from the first of Shawwal up salah (prayer). Our Lord, may He be glorified and exalted, will say
to 12 days to the 10th of Dhul-Hajj is to His angels – although He knows best – (Look at the salah of My
shorter than held to be the period of Hajj slave, whether it is complete or incomplete. (If it is perfect, it will be
the solar year, because some acts of Hajj can recorded as perfect, and if something is lacking, He will say, (Look
Shawwal migrates be performed any time during and see whether My slave did any voluntary (naafil) prayers. (If he
did some voluntary prayers, [Allah] will say, complete the obligatory
throughout the this period.
actions of My slave from his voluntary actions. (Then all his actions
seasons. will be dealt with in a similar manner), narrated by Abu Dawud.
Your Hobbies with pupils of Ryan Academy, Eastleigh
Thanks to head teacher Abdullahi Ibrahim Adan and religious teacher Dahir Omar.
Name: Omar Abdinasir; Age: Name: Fahat Mahad; Age: 13 Name: Abdi Majid Jamaa; Age: Name: Abubakar Abdirahman; Name: Abdi Kadir; Age: 14 years;
6 years; Class: PreUnit; School: years; School: Ryan Academy 5 years; Class: PreUnit; School: Age: 6 years; Class: PreUnit; School: Class: 4A; School: Ryan Academy
Ryan Academy School, Nairobi; School, Nairobi; Best Subjects: Ryan Academy School, Nairobi; Ryan Academy School, Nairobi; School, Nairobi; Best Subjects:
Best Subjects: IRE, Quran & Social Studies & Towhid; I want Best Subjects: Quran, Math & Best Subjects: Quran, Arabic & Science, Math & English &
Arabic; I want to be a: Teacher. to be a: Engineer. Science; I want to be a: Doctor. Science; I want to be a: Pilot. Arabic; I want to be a: Politician.
Name: Zuhir Abdimahat; Age: Name: Farhia Sharif; Age: 11 Name: Kulthum Mohammad; Name: Azal Abdikadhir; Age: Name: Aisha Abdikadhir; Age:
6 years; Class: 7; School: Ryan years; Class: 2A; School: Ryan Age: 13 years; Class: 5; School: 10 years; Class: 3; School: Ryan 4 years; Class: 7; School: Ryan
Academy School, Nairobi; Best Academy School, Nairobi; Best Ryan Academy School, Nairobi; Academy School, Nairobi; Best Academy School, Nairobi; Best
Subjects: Quran, Hadith & Subjects: Hadith, IRE & Science; Best Subjects: Quran & Hadith; I Subjects: IRE, Quran & English; I Subjects: Quran, Arabic & Science;
Science; I want to be a: Doctor. I want to be a: Ustadha. want to be a: Pilot. want to be a: Gyneacologist. I want to be a: Neurosurgeon.
Attention Children: If you wish to appear on this page, send us your digital photo, name,
age school/madrassa/hobbies, hadiths, poems among others to: info@thenewdawn.info

11. The New Dawn,
September 1 - September 15, 2012. Feature /11
Somalia peace prospects bring
business windfall to Eastleigh
Impending elections and stability in Somali offers businessmen an
opportunity rebuild the country as well as make money
By Mohamed Kahiye his speciality in promotional items like
banners, bumper stickers, printings and
brandings has earned him recognition
and business back in Somalia where he
N
transports goods on order.
airobi’s Eastleigh area “I get orders from Mogadishu which
is considered to have I design and ensure they contain messages
deep political and socio- that promote peace,” he says. “It feels
economical connections good to be part and parcel of promoting
with the neighbouring Somalia. Thanks peace in Somalia through my company.”
to the huge Somali population residing in Though Salat is not in Somalia
the area, Eastleigh’s business community preaching peace, his messages can be Adan’s agency caters for refugees in
is poised to play a major role in ensuring found in major cities and streets calling camps also but the challenge is bigger
that the war-torn country gets back on for restoration of peace and hope upon because the authorities on both sides have
its feet. the residents. made the process difficult in clearing
If the ongoing attempts at a “Prospects of peace in Somalia have people to go back. His appeal to both
democratically elected leadership are excited the Somali’s Diaspora community governments is to necessitate a fast
anything to go by and the push by and we facilitate their flights from clearance of people willing to go back
Amisom to purge the country from Europe and Asia through Nairobi,” home considering that many have no
the Al-Shabaab militia and the Al- says the managing director of Eastleigh valid travel documents. Some people, he
Qaeda diehards, many businesses are Mall branch of Amazon Travel Agency says, have been turned back to camps on
bidding time before they can cash in on Abdifatah Ali Adan. the day of departure.
opportunities waiting to be exploited as Since there are no direct flights to Elections in Somalia have already
Somalia returns to normalcy. Somalia currently, Adan’s agency assists been scheduled for this year. Both Salat
Already established businesses in thousands of Somalis willing to go home and Adan agree that all citizens of
Eastleigh are playing “silent roles” in by ensuring that their journeys are well Somalia should be given a chance to
helping back in Somalia. From five star catered for on their way to Mogadishu express their freedom to choose.
hotels, travel agencies and lodges to textile through Nairobi. The certain ousting “The civil war forced many
printing industries steps are slowly being of Al-Shabaab from Mogadishu has professionals to flee the country and (Top Left) Amazon Travel Agency
taken to ensure that there will be Kenya’s improved perceptions as more people are there is need to bring them to rebuild the managing director, Abdifatah Ali
foot prints in major cities of Somalia going in. country,” Salat says. Adan. (Top Right) An employee of
when the country sobers from the ravages “Initially, there was one flight weekly The challenges to a clean break for Graphic and Art Design Company
of war. but due to the increased numbers of Somalia are overwhelming but with the shows off items the company
Ali Ahmed Salat, 38, is a budding passengers we have three to four flights help of the neighbouring countries and produces (Inset) Ali Ahmed Salat,
businessman and one of those playing daily,” he says. This has not only led to friendly nations, the horn of Africa will the proprietor.
a role in rebuilding Somalia. An artisan ticket price hikes but also caught the be able to commit to peace.
by profession, Salat is finding business attention of other international airlines. “We need the support of the as flying into a storm as long as all East
from Somalia taking orders to print “A while ago, an air ticket from international community through this African countries create a conducive
promotional messages of peace on Nairobi to Mogadishu was US$ 200 journey of rebuilding Somalia,” he pleads. climate in which the only interests will be
different items. dollars (Sh17,000). For now owing to Adan believes that Somalia’s flight the safety of its citizens and all visitors.
Through his company, Graphic the high demand, tickets have shot up to path from war and inter-clan power “Peace in Somalia is peace in the region.”
Design Company situated in Eastleigh, 250 dollars,” he adds. struggles to peace may not be as rough Even those living in Eastleigh know.

12. 12 / The New Dawn
September 1 - September 15, 2012.
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13. The New Dawn
September 1 - September 15, 2012. Global Forum / 13
Forces at play in the Syrian crisis
Syrian President Bashir Al Assad talks to Syrian troops fighting rebels in a captured city. Left: Protestors burn a photo of Assad.
By Agencies the government’s official statements from its Israel’s role in the Syrian events is a bloodshed in the country. The only question
deeds. sensitive issue for Syrians, considering Israel’s is how. The Syrian government supposes
Moreover, in confidential conversations, continued occupation of the Golan Heights. that if the new constitution is approved and
Syrian officials make it clear that Syria is Indeed, even high-ranking Syrian officials parliamentary elections are successfully held
developing a special relationship with Iraq, claim they possess evidence showing that the in May, the prerequisites for stabilization will
I
which sympathizes with Syria’s efforts to Syrian Muslim Brotherhood has direct links be in place.
t would be no exaggeration to say that stabilize the domestic situation. It is quite to the Israeli government. The Syrian government has high hopes
the Syrian crisis has become the most probable that with the withdrawal of U.S. Speaking about the role of the for constitutional reform. Information
important international issue of the day. troops from Iraq, Iran, Iraq and Syria will at Syrian opposition, Syrian officials note Minister Adnan Mahmoud said it “will set
Dramatic changes are sweeping some point naturally form a loose, tripartite its heterogeneous character. Far from all an example for the entire region.” Judging
a huge region where the interests of many alliance in the Middle East. Given that the of Assad’s opponents are taking up arms by the contents of some of its provisions,
countries, including Russia, the United majority of the Iraqis are Shiite and Iran’s to achieve their goals. On the contrary, a published by the media, this is certainly
States, China and EU nations intersect. growing influence in Iraq in the last few years, significant portion of Assad’s opponents the case, at least as long as authoritarian
Temperatures are rising in the Middle East, such a scenario is by no means improbable. are also fundamentally opposed to foreign and theocratic states like Saudi Arabia
and may soon reach the boiling point. It was Oman is also giving Syria some support. interference in the form of sanctions or exist. Riyadh could never contemplate such
interesting, therefore, amid the blizzard of Syrian officials, including Vice President military intervention. The reforms planned reforms.
global media reporting based sometimes on Najah al-Attar and Deputy Foreign Minister by the Syrian government are aimed at However, it is important to remember
less than direct sourcing, to hear about events Faisal Mekdad, with whom a group of winning over these peaceful members of that there are armed radicals among the
in Syria directly from officials in Damascus Russian experts (and the author of this the opposition. These reforms include a Syrian opposition – even the United States
with whom the author of this article recently article) met recently, mention Turkey, Qatar referendum on a new constitution that would officially acknowledges this – and they appear
met. and Israel among the main instigators of end the Ba’ath Party’s monopoly on power to be fighting to the end, targeting Assad
Most world media portray the Syrian international pressure on Syria, along with and set presidential term limits. regime loyalists in their campaign of terror.
regime as increasingly isolated in the the United States standing behind them. The Some of Assad’s vocal opponents Al-Attar also noted the problem of illegal
international community, with little to hope American factor in the Syrian crisis (and, to (notably those who speak from outside arms supplies from Turkey and Lebanon and
for but continued support from Russia a lesser extent, the Israeli factor) is one of Syria), backed energetically by a handful of that Turkey’s role in the current crisis came
(which in turn, that narrative goes, is driven the main topics of discussion in Damascus Western states led by the United States, insist as a surprise for the Syrian leaders. “We
exclusively by commercial interests). However, at the moment. Syrians emphasize that the that the time for finding a peaceful solution didn’t expect Turkey to play such a role in the
Syrian officials say that the situation is not main target of the United States and Israel in Syria has run out. And that weapons and unfolding events,” she said.
nearly so dire. is not Syria but rather Iran, and that they are use of force are the only viable option left. Interestingly, the actions of opposition
They point out that Chinese Deputy interested in destabilizing Syria for the sole However, the Syrian government supported commanders also came as a surprise for
Foreign Minister Zhai Jun’s recent visit to purpose of depriving Tehran of a “counter by other states that also know the country Damascus. Mekdad said that “initially even
Syria made clear that Beijing, like Moscow, play” in the Middle East in the event of a well and even by a portion of Assad’s high-ranking Syrian officials did not fully
does not intend to abandon President Bashar military operation against Iran. In general, political opponents in the country, say the understand the nature of events.” Syrian
al-Assad’s regime. Iran, itself subjected to the Syrian political elite is convinced that window of dialogue is not yet closed. Like politicians did not expect demonstrations
tough international pressure, views Syria there is an international conspiracy against the foreign supporters of Syria’s opposition, to last this long and did not take all the
as an important friend in the Arab world Damascus. the authorities in Damascus want to halt necessary measures to neutralize their negative
and, therefore, is also actively supporting effects in the initial phase.
the regime. It has already made a symbolic It is clear that the situation in Syria is
gesture by twice sending its ships to the complex. Future developments will depend
Mediterranean Sea. on the government’s ability to establish a civil
It is telling that Egypt, which is not dialogue in the country, carry out political
particularly sympathetic to Damascus reforms and deprive the armed wing of
officially (and even recalled its ambassador the opposition of any support from the
from Damascus), allowed Iranian warships It is clear that the situation in Syria is complex. population. Damascus deserves help in
to pass through the Suez Canal on these
occasions. Therefore, it is premature to say Future developments will depend on the these efforts. Also peace in Syria depends
on the world understanding that the reality
that Egypt, the most populous Arab country, government’s ability to establish a civil dialogue on the ground in this country today is not
has unequivocally renounced Syria. Here it
is important to draw a distinction between in the country, carry out political reforms... necessarily as simple as much of the media
reporting.