The government has urged the Nubian community to pursue their interests as a united front to realise a meaningful representation at both the national and county levels.

The Director for Minority and Marginalised Affairs Unit in the Executive Office of the President Josephat Lowoi told community leaders during a public participation session in Kibra that their unity was key in consolidation their bargaining power to leadership positions.

“The government has prioritised inclusivity and it is crucial for the Nubian community to actively engage in structured discussions about their representation,” Lowoi stated.

He told the community to adopt an organised leadership approach to ensure that they are adequately involved in decision-making so that their needs and aspirations are addressed.

Lowoi regretted that the Nubian community is losing out in some of the critical national exercise because of their disunity and lack of foresight for the common good of the community citing cases where they missed government appointments.

He encouraged the unemployed youth to apply for job opportunities in the country like any other Kenyan as long as they meet the minimum qualification to the bridge the current deficit in the public service.

“While positive discrimination can be applied, it is important that individuals meet basic qualifications for government jobs,” he explained.

He further emphasised that with Nubians residing in at least 12 counties across the country had a substantial number to warrant greater representation adding that the policy paper supporting affirmative action to ensure that the Nubians were no longer classified as a minority group.

The meeting also addressed key issues affecting the Nubian community, including land ownership, which is currently under review at the Attorney General’s office. Additionally, concerns about identity documentation were discussed, with Alex Mbute, the Assistant County Commissioner (ACC) for Kibera, acknowledging progress in issuing ID cards and birth certificates to Nubian community members.

On matters of resettlement, it was noted that some Nubians have already begun relocating from riparian land in compliance with government directives. Lowoi confirmed that the government has pledged to identify and support individuals with a history of struggle to ensure they are fully integrated into national development efforts.

Lowoi warned that ongoing leadership wrangles are slowing down efforts to address the community’s challenges. He urged for unity and strong, centralized leadership, cautioning against multiple factions that create division.

“I want to lead one Nubian community, not many divided groups. Let us remain united,” he said.

The Nubian community was also encouraged to foster a culture of mutual support and cooperation, ensuring that internal disputes do not derail efforts to secure their rightful place in government and national development.

• A Tell / KNA report / By Jacqueline Adyang

The Director for Minority and Marginalized Affairs Unit, in the Executive Office of the President Hon. Josephat Lowoi receives a booklet about the history of the Nubian people in the country from one of the elders during the meeting in Kibra.

Members of the Nubian community take part in a public participation during the meeting in Kibra