By Kepher Otieno - Reporter
Kenya, 17 December 2023 - Democracy and environmental advocacy converged as Kenya Nile Discourse Forum (KNDF) held its second Annual General Meeting (AGM), formally coded as the General Assembly, bringing together environmental rights groups from across the Western Kenya region.
The forum used the gathering to elect new office bearers, signaling a renewed drive to strengthen leadership and expand projects across the Nile Basin.
Presiding over the elections, returning officer and National Coordinator Bernard Okebe highlighted the organisation’s continental reach, noting that Nile Discourse forums operate in ten countries along the Nile River Basin, including Egypt, Sudan, South Sudan, Kenya, Tanzania, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, and Burundi.
“Each country chapter holds its AGM and elections differently,” Mr Okebe explained.
“We thank the delegates for conducting free and fair elections, and I urge the elected leaders to retreat to work for the common good of all members.”
The AGM returned Peter Joseph Ngome as chairperson for a second one-year term after he was elected unopposed, reflecting confidence in his leadership.
Mr Ngome was officially declared chair by Okebe.
In his remarks, Mr Ngome pledged to “up the game” in serving members and ensuring that the forum’s programmes reach every part of the region.
The vice chairperson position attracted the most contestation, with Venny Ratemo narrowly defeating William Chelule, securing 36 votes against Chelule’s 21.
The competitive race underscored the forum’s growing participatory culture and the willingness of delegates to actively shape leadership decisions.
Other key positions were filled unopposed.
John Maji was elected Secretary General after Laban Korelach who had been proposed by delegates, stepped down due to commitments that would limit his ability to serve.
Roselyne Eshikumo was elected Treasurer completing the executive team.
To broaden governance and regional representation, six board members were selected from counties and regions including Homabay, Migori, Kisii, Siaya, Kakamega, Bomet, Kericho and parts of the Rift Valley.
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The board members are Hellen Miteti, Zablon Indakwa, Caren Odero, Maurice Kenyancha, Jared Ngala, and Emmanuel, Mukasa Tom Onyango.
In his acceptance speech, Secretary General Maji emphasised the need to develop and implement proposals that support environmental and climate-focused projects in every region.
“We will ensure that our programs benefit all communities,” Maji said.
Chairperson Ngome added, “Our focus is on delivering tangible results and strengthening the organisation’s capacity to serve its members effectively.”
The General Assembly also provided a platform for discussion on organizational processes.
Lena Mijide representing Busia, Bungoma, and Kakamega raised concerns regarding the selection process for Cluster Focal Point Four, suggesting that future elections should be conducted with attention to regional representation.
Responding, Okebe reassured delegates that the feedback would be reviewed and addressed in future processes.
“Let us accept the majority decision; the minority will also be heard without recrimination,” he stated.
Mr Okebe further commended the delegates for the transparent voting process.
“The forum’s growth across the Nile Basin demonstrates the value of structured leadership and democratic engagement,” he noted, highlighting the forum’s potential to influence environmental advocacy across multiple countries.
The AGM concluded with renewed commitment to environmental conservation, climate change mitigation and collaborative action across the Western Kenya region.
Observers noted that while the elections confirmed strong leadership, the discussions also signaled the organisation’s intention to strengthen coordination, ensure inclusivity in decision-making, and expand its footprint along the Nile Basin.
Kenya Nile Discourse Forum now faces the challenge of translating its democratic gains into concrete environmental projects, ensuring that the elected leadership meets members’ expectations while advancing climate mitigation initiatives in the region.
