Shows
The Spark It PodcastEP 28: South Sudan Elections 2026: Why Elections Without Reforms Could Be Dangerous for the Country's FutureIn this episode of the Spark It Podcast, we unpack South Sudan’s long transitional period, the 2018 revitalized peace agreement, and the repeated extensions that have delayed the country’s path to stability. We explain the purpose of the pre-transitional and transitional phases, the challenges of forming security arrangements, and why elections without key reforms, such as a permanent constitution, a census, and functional institutions, risk deepening insecurity. We also reflect on what ordinary South Sudanese need most: fairness, stability, and meaningful participation in shaping the country’s future. Tune in.
2025-12-142h 07
The Spark It PodcastEP 27: South Sudan's Political Shake-Up: Kiir's New Decrees, Wani Igga's Return, and Machar's TrialIn this episode of the Spark It Podcast, we break down South Sudan’s most dramatic political shake-up in years. We analyze President Salva Kiir’s nine decrees issued in a single night, following the removal of Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel. We examine why Kiir acted now, and what these changes reveal about Kiir's strategy, loyalty politics, governance challenges, and the future of the Riek Machar trial. We discuss institutional instability, corruption risks, the growing normalization of reshuffles, and the recycling of loyal politicians like Dr. James Wani Igga, and how these moves signal the effective death of th...
2025-11-231h 33
The Spark It PodcastEP 26: Kenya vs. Uganda: Museveni's Indian Ocean Claim Breaks the Internet │ The Spark It PodcastUganda’s President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni shocked East Africa after claiming the Indian Ocean “belongs” to him (Uganda) —sparking outrage, humor, and serious geopolitical debate. In this episode, we break down the legal, historical, military, and economic implications of the statement. From Kenya’s online reactions to Uganda’s landlocked position, EAC politics, regional security, and the role of social media activism, this conversation unpacks it all. We also discuss unrest in Tanzania and the rising Gen Z movement across Africa. Tune in for a sharp, insightful, and humorous breakdown of a statement that rattled the region.
2025-11-2034 min
The Spark It PodcastEP 25: The Fall of Benjamin Bol Mel: He Had It All… Then Kiir Took EVERYTHING.This episode of the Spark It Podcast dives deep into the shocking fall of Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel. In a rapid series of presidential decrees, President Salva Kiir Mayardit removed, relieved, demoted, and dismissed Bol Mel from every position of power: Vice President for the Economic Cluster, Deputy Chairman of the SPLM, National Security Service, and even his rank as a full military General. We explore why Bol Mel rose so quickly — and why his fall was even faster. We explore loyalty, political immaturity, corruption allegations, Kiir’s power consolidation, internal SPLM dynamics, and what this fallout means for Sout...
2025-11-131h 16
The Spark It PodcastThe Spark It Podcast EP 24: The Rise of King George and Chill Talk PodcastIn this episode of The Spark It Podcast, we sit down with King George, the visionary, founder, and host of the Chill Talk Podcast, the most popular podcast in South Sudan. From growing up as a refugee in Uganda to becoming one of East Africa’s top podcast hosts, George shares his journey of resilience, creativity, and purpose. He opens up about starting from scratch, the power of consistency, and how he built a platform that amplifies South Sudanese voices and stories. Tune in for motivation, laughter, and powerful lessons on growth and community.
2025-11-111h 43
The Spark It PodcastThe Spark It Podcast EP 23: Raila Odinga's Legacy and Kenya's Next Political Chapter │ Emmanuel TabanFollowing the passing of Raila Odinga, political analyst Emmanuel Taban examines how Kenya’s democracy icon shaped multi-party politics, constitutional reform in 2010, and a culture of peaceful protest. We revisit Raila’s calming “handshake” politics, including the recent broad-based arrangement with President William Ruto, and debate online reactions, kingpin dynamics, and ODM’s future leadership, from Edwin Sifuna to Babu Owino. The conversation weighs whether his absence strengthens citizen-led opposition after the 2024 Gen Z protests, and how it could reshape nominations, by-elections, and the 2027 race. Tune in to learn how Raila showed that change doesn’t require the presidency but that con...
2025-10-2745 min
The Spark It PodcastThe Spark It Podcast EP 22: Uganda Elections 2026: Ready for Change Or More of the Same?In this episode of The Spark It Podcast, we talk about the stability Uganda has enjoyed since 1986. We unpack President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s leadership style, the benefits and trade-offs of “security-first” rule, and how constitutional changes that removed term and age limits reshaped power and public trust. We explore rural and urban voter motivations, why opposition parties struggle to scale beyond cities, and ask whether real transition requires coalitions, stronger institutions, or both. With the 2026 Uganda elections around the corner, we dig into why both the ruling party and the opposition draw big crowds—and why that still doesn’t...
2025-10-161h 52
The Spark It PodcastThe Spark It Podcast EP 21: Riek Machar Trial Explained │Emmanuel TabanIn this episode of the Spark It Podcast, we break down the high-profile trial of South Sudan’s First Vice President, Dr. Riek Machar Teny Dhurgon. Political analyst Emmanuel Taban explains the 2025 Nasir clashes, alleged links to the White Army, charges against Machar (treason, murder, crimes against humanity), and why a special court and media access matter. We unpack the constitutional confusion between the Transitional Constitution of South Sudan (2011) and the 2018 Revitalized Agreement for Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS). We also debate immunity claims, ask whether this is about justice or politics, and explore what this trial me...
2025-10-0747 min
The Spark It PodcastThe Spark It Podcast EP 20: Girls' Education in South Sudan │Clara Joan MullaiIn this episode of The Spark It Podcast, Clara Joan Mullai, a women's advocate, shares her life story as a girl from South Sudan who fought to stay in school. Clara speaks about early marriage, dowry norms, period poverty, and weak school systems, and her pastor father, who protected her from early marriage and championed her education. We discuss parental support, pads and basics, mentorship, and programs like Girls Education South Sudan (GESS), as well as her mantra of resilience, hope, and hard work. Listen to hear how educating girls can transform families and empower entire communities.
2025-09-2752 min
The Spark It PodcastThe Spark It Podcast EP 19 Pt. 2: KK Rap Soldiers │ Patrick Chandiga JustineIn this Spark It Podcast episode, KK Rap Soldiers from Koboko share raw truths about Uganda’s music scene, self-presentation, unity, and the importance of demanding fair pay from promoters. They hustle beyond the stage (boda boda) to fund better studios, visuals, and an EP. The crew salutes Homeboy Juston’s organizing, urges artists to negotiate together, and teases their hit “Painkiller,” with a video coming. They envision a homegrown label and studio to mentor talent, elevate West Nile hip-hop, and reach international stages. Expect lessons on resilience, friendship, and diversification, plus a call to support local artists and build a...
2025-09-2345 minThe Spark It PodcastThe Spark It Podcast EP 19 Pt. 1: KK Rap Soldiers │ Patrick Chandiga JustineIn this episode of the Spark It Podcast, we sit down with the KK Rap Soldiers, the hottest rap group in Koboko, Uganda. Known for their hit single “Nobody”, which gained over 17,000 YouTube views in just six months, the trio shares their journey from dance crews to dominating the rap scene. Fadsam Faddy, Jaden Jecko, and Koffi Li open up about their struggles, inspirations, and what it takes to hustle as young artists in West Nile. From boda-boda hustle to music dreams, discover how they balance passion, survival, and culture in shaping the sound of a generation.
2025-09-0755 min
The Spark It PodcastThe Spark It Podcast EP 18 Pt. 2: South Sudan's Education Crisis │Patrick Chandiga JustineIn Part 2 of this Spark It Podcast episode, Patrick Chandiga Justine sheds light on how South Sudan’s education crisis ties directly to peace, politics, and the nation’s future. With millions of children out of school, underpaid teachers, and fragile infrastructure, the system struggles to prepare future leaders. Patrick explains why peace is the foundation for any real reform and highlights efforts like Girls’ Education South Sudan (GESS). He calls for government investment, teacher training, and global support while urging students to keep hope alive. Education, he argues, is not just a right—it’s South Sudan’s greatest res...
2025-09-0135 min
The Spark It PodcastThe Spark It Podcast EP 18 Pt. 1: South Sudan's Education Crisis │Patrick Chandiga JustineIn this episode of The Spark It Podcast, we dive into South Sudan’s deepening education crisis with Patrick Chandiga Justine, a South Sudanese refugee and founder of CECI Uganda, JobsToApply, and WANII. With over 2 million children out of school and literacy rates below 35%, the country faces a significant educational crisis. Girls are the most affected, as 3 out of 4 remain out of school, and many face early pregnancies. Patrick shares his personal story of waiting 7.5 years to continue his education, while exposing structural neglect, underfunded schools, and teachers forced to work at gunpoint. This is not just about classrooms, it...
2025-08-3139 min
The Spark It PodcastSouth Sudan at 14: The Road to Independence and Self-ruleIn this Spark It Podcast episode, we talk about South Sudan's journey to becoming its own country. Emmanuel Taban, a South Sudanese political analyst, shares what it was like growing up during the war and how the people fought hard to gain independence in 2011 after years of war and suffering. We talk about civil wars, lost lives, hope for peace, and the big dreams that many still hold. This is a story of strength, freedom, and starting again. South Sudan’s road to independence was not easy, but the people never gave up. If you care about peace, justice, an...
2025-07-091h 18
The Spark It PodcastKenyan Women Leading Protests for Change.This episode of the Spark It Podcast honors the power and voices of Kenyan women in protests—from freedom fighter Mekatilili wa Menza and Nobel laureate Wangari Maathai to today’s Gen Z leaders. It shows how women have shaped history and are still on the frontlines fighting femicide, injustice, and bad governance. Their voices matter. Their actions inspire. Their courage brings hope. Whether offline or online, Kenyan women are pushing for a better future, and the world should be listening. #KenyaProtests #WomenInActivism #KenyanWomenVoices #WangariMaathai #Mekatilili #EndFemicide #GenZProtests #WomenForChange #SparkItPodcast #ProtestPower #ActivistWomen #GreenBeltMovement
2025-07-0437 min
The Spark It PodcastKenya's Gen Z Uprising: Protest, Power, and HopeOn this episode of the Spark It Podcast, we talk about Kenya’s June 25th protests when young people filled the streets demanding justice, freedom, and better leadership. We explore what happened, why it matters, and how the youth are fighting for their future despite fear, violence, and silence from those in power. From police brutality to social activism, this is a deep, honest conversation about accountability, grief, and hope. The Gen Z are not backing down. Their voices are loud, clear, and courageous, and this episode shows why they won’t stop until real change happens.
2025-06-251h 06
The Spark It PodcastKenyans Demand Justice for Albert Ojwang- Bonus EpiosdeAlbert Ojwang was a Kenyan teacher and blogger. He died in police custody after sharing his views online. In this episode of the Spark It Podcast, we tell his story in simple language. We explore why freedom of speech is important and how people in Kenya are calling for justice. We discuss what happened, how communities reacted, and why it matters for everyone. Hear voices asking for truth, compassion, and human rights. Join us to learn how one person’s story can help us understand our own rights and the power of speaking up together today.
2025-06-1328 min
The Spark It PodcastFrom Church Camera to Creative BossIn this episode of the Spark It Podcast, Abraham “Monte” Kamau shares how he went from using church equipment to building Mont Republic, a creative agency offering photography, design, and digital skills training. With no formal schooling in media, Monte learned everything from YouTube and now teaches others how to earn a living from what they have. His journey shows how passion, faith, and consistency can turn small steps into big wins. This episode is perfect for anyone looking to start where they are and grow their dreams into something powerful. Tune in and get sparked!
2025-06-081h 06
The Spark It PodcastBreaking Barriers: Naom's Journey to Women LeadershipIn this episode of the Spark It Podcast, Naom takes us through her inspiring leadership journey.From breaking the glass ceiling as a leader in the nonprofit sector championing women and girls empowerment; to how she has taken up leadership roles all the way from when she was a child. To her, leadership is not about having all the answers but its about influencing people and giving them the power to occupy space.She shares that to address the gender gap, more representation is needed and why its important for women to share their achievements...
2025-06-0156 min
The Spark It PodcastFrom Refugee Camp to Canada: Emmanuel Taban's JourneyIn this episode of The Spark It Podcast, Emmanuel Taban takes us through his inspiring journey from growing up in a refugee camp in Uganda to earning a scholarship to study in Canada. He shares how he navigated tough choices, overcame self-doubt, and adapted to a new life abroad. From learning English and getting his first smartphone to facing culture shock and adjusting to student life in Canada, Emmanuel’s story is full of courage and lessons. This episode is a must-listen for anyone dreaming of studying abroad or looking for hope, direction, and motivation in their journey.
2025-05-171h 19
The Spark It PodcastLanding First Jobs: Truths No One Told UsIn this episode of The Spark It Podcast, Hellen Kimaru and Kimzy open up about landing their first jobs, the struggles of job hunting, the pressure to stick to a career path, and learning how to speak up at work. From night shifts to nonprofit work, they share personal lessons about soft skills, setting boundaries, and why starting from the bottom isn’t failure. If you’re job searching, new to work, or building your dreams from scratch, this episode gives insights you might find helpful.
2025-04-2544 min
The Spark It PodcastEchoes of War: Kenya Ban on Butere Girls' Play by Cleophas MalalaIn this episode, Hellen Kimaru sits down with Kimzy, a multi-talented Kenyan creative who is a fashion designer, YouTuber, and play writer, director, actor, and producer. Together, they dive into the controversy around the student play Echoes of War by Cleophas Malala, performed by Butere Girls in Kenya. They discuss why the play was stopped by the Kenyan government and the issues it raises about censorship, freedom of expression, and the ability of art to speak truth to power. They also explain why this play matters, how it shows the real struggles of life in Kenya, and why giving...
2025-04-1151 min
The Spark It PodcastStarting Over After WarIn this episode of The Spark It Podcast, Hellen Kimaru and Patrick Chandiga Justine sit down with Emmanuel Taban, a political commentator and a final-year governance student at Yukon University, Canada. He shares how war forced him to leave his home in South Sudan. He talks about escaping to Uganda, starting life from zero in a refugee camp, and how education and hope helped him rebuild. His story is about courage, learning, and believing in yourself no matter what. A great listen for anyone interested in refugee stories, youth leadership, resilience, and rising through tough times.
2025-04-041h 11
The Spark It PodcastFinding Our Voices Through ArtIn this episode, Hellen Kimaru speaks with her sisters, Lydia and Ann, about growing up with poetry, acting, and music. Lydia is a fashion designer, YouTuber, and mom who has loved theater from a young age. She now supports her son’s music and poetry. Ann discovered poetry at age nine and once performed for Kenya’s First Lady, Lucy Kibaki. Together, they share how art helped them gain confidence, heal from trauma, make new friends, and learn public speaking. They also talk about how their mother’s support helped them perform in church, weddings, and school, teaching them valuab...
2025-03-3132 min
The Spark It PodcastTurn Ideas into Action: From Volunteering to Building a Social EnterpriseDiscover how volunteering can change your life and community! In this episode, Hellen Kimaru shares her journey from being a university student and passionate volunteer to founding LatitudeZero Opportunities, a social enterprise empowering hundreds of youth in Kenya. We discuss the transformative power of volunteering, building hands-on skills, breaking gender stereotypes, and turning passion into meaningful action. Tune in for powerful stories, practical advice, and heartfelt insights to help you turn your ideas into action.
2025-03-211h 06
The Spark It Podcast1 Million Chapatis a Day? Kenyans React to Ruto's Chapati Machine Promise!President William Ruto promised schools in Nairobi a machine to make one million chapatis each day! Kenyans quickly reacted with jokes, questions, and serious debates. Patrick and Kimaru discuss if this promise is realistic or just another funny story. They talk about how costly chapatis are, if it's smart spending, and whether important things like roads, healthcare, and jobs should come first. Listen to funny stories, understand why chapatis mean so much to Kenyan kids, and find out why people worry mama chapati might lose her job. Join us to laugh and learn as we explore if one million...
2025-03-1458 min
The Spark It PodcastPurpose: Do We Find It or Does It Find Us?In this episode of The Spark It Podcast, Hellen Kimaru and Patrick Chandiga Justine discuss finding purpose. Is it something we find, or does it find us? Patrick shares how his faith, refugee experience, and passion for service shaped his purpose. We discuss how purpose evolves, why it’s okay to feel lost, and how to recognize what truly drives you. If you’ve ever questioned your purpose, this episode is full of laughs, insights, personal stories, and motivation to help you move forward. Tune in and get inspired! Learn more about projects mentioned in this episode: C...
2025-03-071h 11
The Spark It PodcastDo Relationships Need Love to Survive or Just Something Else?Is love truly the foundation of relationships, or have we overhyped its importance? In this episode, we dive into relationships that function out of duty, shared goals, or cultural expectations. From arranged marriages to transactional relationships, we explore whether love is essential or just one of many possible foundations. Can mutual respect, companionship, or mutual benefit replace romantic affection? What happens when love is one-sided? Tune in, and you might walk away with a new perspective on what truly sustains relationships.
2025-02-281h 42
The Spark It PodcastQuitting Business to Build an NGO Empowering RefugeesIn this episode, we sit down with Patrick Chandiga Justine, founder and Board Chair of Community Empowerment for Creative Innovation (CECI Uganda), to explore his journey from becoming a refugee, quitting a family-owned business to founding a refugee-led regional NGO serving over 178,000 youth, women, and children. We dive into how his experience of war in South Sudan and hate-motivated violence in refugee settlements in Uganda turned him into a humanitarian, fostering social cohesion and access to education in refugee communities. Tune in to learn how becoming comfortable with being uncomfortable helped Patrick grow and how it could help you...
2025-02-211h 38
The Spark It PodcastFinding Your Voice: The Power of Speaking UpIn this episode, Hellen Kimaru dives deep into the journey of finding her voice. She shares how she grew from being a quiet, unseen child to a confident leader, poet, and public speaker. She talks about how reading books, performing poetry, and taking leadership roles helped her express herself, build confidence, and heal from childhood trauma.Through engaging stories about childhood competitions, persuasive arguments, and self-discovery, this episode will inspire you to embrace your voice, step into leadership, and use storytelling as a powerful tool for change. Tune in for a conversation filled with lessons on...
2025-02-101h 53
The Spark It PodcastRising from Ashes: A Story of Loss, Resilience, and RebuildingIn this episode, Hellen Kimaru, a Kenyan social entrepreneur, poet, and advocate for youth and women empowerment, dives deep into the moment that redefined her life. She shares her journey of resilience—from a childhood shaped by creativity and poetry to surviving a traumatic event that forced her family to rebuild from scratch. Through heartbreak, displacement, and the power of family and community, she discovered strength in the face of adversity. Tune in to hear how she overcame life’s toughest challenges, the importance of seeking help, and why embracing therapy can help with healing. This is a story of s...
2025-02-031h 12
The Spark It PodcastReconnecting with Faith and GodIn the episode, we sit down with Hellen Kimaru, a Kenyan social entrepreneur, poet, and advocate for the empowerment of youth, women, and girls. We explore her journey to reconnecting with God and finding faith within the Seventh-day Adventist Church. We also highlight and demystify some notions about the church by diving deep into its culture, singing, literature, community, and more. We discuss faith, its role in our lives, and why it's important to trust in God even when we question him. Visit www.HellenKimaru.com to learn more!
2025-01-211h 07