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Author: Kenyaleo Editorial Team

  • Tourism Players Gain Knowledge on Leverage Sports to Boost Tourism

    Sports organizers and travel trade are rooting for joint initiatives to promote sports as a key driver of tourism in Kenya

    Yesterday, KTB CEO June Chepkemei disclosed that Kenya is recording low visitor arrivals in sports-related events. The country recorded 4,600 sports tourists between January and October, a figure she described as dismal.

    The CEO was speaking during a capacity-building forum on sports tourism, where sports federations in Kenya were also urged to synchronize the sports events calendar to ensure tour operators can easily leverage key events to make Kenya an all-around tourism destination.

    The session also had a strong focus on building synergies between tourism stakeholders and key sports event organizers in Kenya. Tour operators and hotels were particularly urged to get creative in bundling offers to ensure the repeat visits and long stays of visitors drawn by sports.

    Magical Kenya Open Tournament Director Patrick Obath, who was a speaker during the forum, said that the Kenyan tourism trade should actively seek to package tourism products around key events that are already guaranteed in the annual sports calendar “The link between sports and tourism is multifaceted; first people can play sports and visit a destination where an event is taking place, and secondly, if they like the sport being hosted, they are more likely to be enticed to go visit attractions in the country. What is needed is to package the products we have in the country around events. A key feature in hosting international events is the broadcast and TV time we get around the world that exposes the country positively globally,” said Obath.

    The Kenya Tourism Board CEO noted that with the privilege of hosting key local and international sports events, the destination has an opportunity to scale its tourism portfolio and provide alternatives to travelers who seek adventure and sports.

    “We have the landscapes and wonderful views that can allow us to host many sports events, especially those that don’t require us to have mega facilities. Given our strong sports reputation, it should concern us that we don’t fully capitalize on sports tourism, going by the current statistics. To drive our tourism offering, our goal is to empower the travel trade to better understand and package sports tourism opportunities, “she said

    She added, “As the body mandated to market the destinations’ tourism and seek opportunities that drive the sector in Kenya, we want to ensure that the sports fraternity and the Kenyan tourism players can ensure that we fully take advantage of the big opportunity sports events present.” Chepkemei noted, “We want to integrate sports tourism into our national tourism blueprint so that we can effectively target and attract sports enthusiasts, be they participants, fans, or lifestyle seekers.”

    The session brought together over 100 participants drawn from across the tourism value chain to equip them with insights and strategies to leverage major sporting events for tourism growth.

    According to UN Tourism, sports tourism is increasingly a key driver for the sector, generating around 10% of the world’s expenditure on tourism with an estimated growth rate of 17.5% by 2030. Studies have shown that more travelers are becoming drawn to destinations that host sporting events, with the electric atmosphere of mega competitions and the cultural allure of local sporting traditions.

    The panel discussions also focused on the importance of integrating sports events with destination attractions to create compelling tourism experiences.

    Viu-Tavel CEO Felix Musa said the sport is a huge area that provides jobs and is also a source of much-needed dollars. There is a need to scale the potential in this space if we can work seamlessly with organizers of events. We have learned that there is an appetite and hunger, and if well prepared, Kenyans and visitors have the willingness to spend. We call for synergy to enable operators to react better to the opportunities in the sports space.” Said Musa

    The capacity-building session comes amid a busy sporting calendar for Kenya in early 2025, with the Magical Kenya Open (MKO) set to kick off in late February. The famed WRC Safari Rally also comes back from March 20–23, 2025.

  • Kemei, Chelule and Momanyi in top 10 performing Woman Representatives in 2024

    Kemei, Chelule and Momanyi in top 10 performing Woman Representatives in 2024

    The Global Ranking Analysis has released a performance report form for the Women representatives for the year ending 2024. 

    The team conducted an extensive and deep analysis with a comprehensive study on the key performance of various MPs in fulfilling their constitutional mandate for the Kenyan people.

    During the analysis, the team examined several key areas, including the MPs’ oversight roles and activities, the reports presented in the House, the levels of participation by MPs in respective committee meetings, and the Bills they have sponsored.

    The report further assessed the societal impact of their legislative initiatives and the consequences that have impacted them.

    Top performing Woman Representatives

    Nakuru Woman Representative Liza Chelule was the top-performing MP with 69.4%, followed by her Nyamira counterpart Jerusha Momanyi, who scored 66%.

    Kericho Woman Rep Beatrice Kemei emerged third with 65.4%, followed by Turkana’s Cecilia Asinyen Ng’tit, who came in fourth with 60.5%.

    Below is the full list of the top 10 rankings.

  • Sen Kajwang and Abbas tops in a new survey report on how senate committees performed in 2024

    Sen Kajwang and Abbas tops in a new survey report on how senate committees performed in 2024

    The Authoritative Global Ranking Analysis research firm has released a report of the analysis of the Senate committees and Senate sessions for the year ending 2024.

    The team conducted an extensive and deep analysis with a comprehensive study on the key performance of various Senate Committees in fulfilling their constitutional mandate for the Kenyan people.

    During the analysis, the research firm examined several key areas, including the committees’ oversight roles and activities, the reports presented in the Senate House, senators’ levels of participation in respective committee meetings, the composition of committee members, teamwork shared with the committee leadership, and the Bills they have sponsored.

    In terms of activity and performance, Senator Mohamed Abass Sheikh, who chaired Devolution and Intergovernmental Relations, led with 74.5 percent, followed by Senator Mohamed Chute with 73.5 percent, having chaired the National Cohesion, Equal Opportunity, and Regional Integration Committee.

    In third was Senator James Murango, the Chairperson of the Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries Committee, with 71.6 percent. Following him was Senator Roba Ali Ibrahim, who chaired the Finance and Budget Committee (69.6 percent), and Senator Allan Chesang, who led the Information Communication and Technology Committee (64.6 percent).

    Overall, Senator Moses Kajwang, Chairperson of County Public Accounts, was ranked top with 75.8 percent, followed by Senator Godfrey Osotsi Atieno, County Public Investment & Special Funds (74.5%), Senator Mohamed Abass, Chairperson of Devolution and Intergovernmental Relations (70.7%), Senator Mohamed Chute, Chairperson of National Cohesion, Equal Opportunity, and Regional Integration (69.4%), and Senator James Murango, Chairperson of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries (64.4%).

    Additionally, the analysis deeply reviewed the critical role in shaping the nation when Standing Committees’ media presence is felt across online platforms and regional and mainstream media.

    Critically, the research and analysis further explored the community engagements by the respective Senate committees; it considered evaluating the frequency of field visits attended to, interactions with local communities across the counties, and efforts to gather feedback from the public and the feedback that it has offered.

  • KBL Reiterates Commitment to Uplifting Kenyan Communities as Senator Keg Celebrates 20 Years

    KBL Reiterates Commitment to Uplifting Kenyan Communities as Senator Keg Celebrates 20 Years

    Nyamila CBO members with KBL Leadership during a visit to the Water Project sponsored by KBL’s Senator Keg brand

    Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL), through its Senator Keg brand, has reiterated its commitment to making a positive impact in Kenyan communities as it celebrates two decades. Recently, KBL’s Commercial Director, Joel Kamau, led a team to visit the Nyamila Community-Based Organization (CBO) in Siaya County, a shining example of how the brand’s initiatives are transforming lives.

    The Nyamila CBO, located in the Kaluo area, was one of the winners of KBL’s Shikisha Form na Senator campaign, which supports community projects chosen by beneficiaries. The CBO owns a borehole that, with a Kshs. 1 million investment from Senator Keg, was transformed into a fully-fledged water harvesting and distribution center. Today, the initiative supplies clean water to 40 households and seven water kiosks, benefiting more than 6,000 residents.

    The impact of the project goes beyond access to clean water. Since its establishment, the water center has generated KSh 1.2 million in revenue, creating a sustainable income stream for the community.

    Speaking during the visit, Joel Kamau expressed pride in Senator Keg’s legacy of responsible consumption and community empowerment. “For 20 years, Senator Keg has been more than just an affordable beer; it has been a force for good. Our vision is to ensure that every glass of Senator enjoyed translates to better lives somewhere in Kenya. Projects like this water initiative are proof of how we are delivering on that promise,” Joel said.

    Kamau highlighted the unique value Senator Keg brings, noting that it is brewed using locally sourced sorghum. He encouraged more farmers to grow the crop, pointing out that KBL’s Kisumu brewery, built at a cost of KSh 15 billion, supports 17,000 farmers across the region.

    “By sourcing sorghum locally, we not only produce a high-quality product but also create economic opportunities for farmers. I urge those with the potential to grow sorghum to take up this opportunity, as KBL is the lead buyer of sorghum grown in Kenya,” he added.

    He emphasized that KBL’s support goes beyond beer production, with the Shikisha Form na Senator campaign funding projects that address pressing community needs such as access to clean water.

    “This initiative has already connected 40 households to clean water, and we’re committed to doing more. Our goal is to reach 200 households shortly. This will require additional resources, but together, we can achieve it,” Kamau said.

    The initiative has also improved lives by freeing residents from the time-consuming task of fetching water from distant sources, allowing them to focus on more productive activities.

    Kamau noted that this is the transformative impact KBL strives to achieve through its community partnerships.

    KBL also committed to expanding the project to connect an additional four households to the water system. Kamau expressed gratitude to the CBO leadership and the community for their dedication and partnership.

    “At KBL, we believe in action. When we commit to something, we ensure it is done. This partnership with Nyamila CBO is a testament to the power of collaboration. Together, we are building a better future, one project at a time,” he said. Since 2021, Senator Brand has actively invested to the tune of Ksh 15M in working within Kenyan communities through their CBO outreach program. This has seen the brand create long-term associations with its loyal consumers as it continues to actualize its brand purpose around enriching lives throughout all its value propositions and interactions.

  • Senator Keg Kicks Off Nationwide 20-Year Celebrations with Vibrant Festivities

    Senator Keg Kicks Off Nationwide 20-Year Celebrations with Vibrant Festivities

    (L-R) Commercial Director, EABL Joel Kamau, KBL MD, Mark Ocitti, Kisumu County Deputy Governor, Matthew Owili & Group Corporate Relations Director, Eric Kiniti

    Kenya Breweries Limited’s (KBL) Senator Keg brand has kicked off a nationwide celebration marking 20 years since its launch, under the theme “Tuzidi Kuinuana” (Let’s Keep Uplifting Each Other). The campaign highlights Senator Keg’s contributions to economic growth, community development, and its role in curbing the proliferation of illicit brews in Kenya. 

    The celebrations officially began in Western Kenya with vibrant events held in Ahero, Kisumu County, and Bungoma County. Consumers were treated to electrifying performances from local artists and DJs, alongside engaging activities that showcased Senator Keg’s rich history and enduring legacy. 

    Speaking at the Kisumu event, KBL Commercial Director Joel Kamau highlighted the transformative role Senator Keg has played over the last two decades. “We are celebrating the impact of Senator across the value chain in the country—from farmers, aggregators, and threshers to retailers and transporters. Senator provides an affordable, high-quality beer that counters the illicit brew menace while uplifting the lives of many Kenyans,” he said. 

    Since its introduction in 2004, Senator Keg has become a pillar in Kenya’s beer market, offering a safe and affordable alternative to unregulated brews. By partnering with small-scale farmers, the brand has stimulated local sorghum production, created thousands of jobs, and generated significant tax revenue for the country. Senator Keg has also invested in community development projects, such as a water project in Siaya, which serves over 40 households and impacts more than 500 people. 

    Rachel Wambui, KBL’s Shopper Manager, emphasized the importance of the Western Kenya celebrations: “We came to Ahero to thank our consumers, bar owners, distributors, and farmers who have been with us for the last 20 years. Senator Keg has not only provided an affordable, quality beer but has also made a positive impact on the community. Through initiatives like our water project, we continue to uplift lives.” 

    The celebrations move to Makuti Bar, Eldoret Uasin Gishu County, this weekend, to engage consumers and their larger stakeholder community. The nationwide celebration will thereafter continue in the coming months, with more consumer events planned in various regions, including Thika, Meru, Nyeri, Kakamega, and more. The full schedule spans from October 2024 to April 2025, showcasing Senator Keg’s enduring presence across the country. 

  • National Treasury explores PPP models for mega projects after Adani Group’s exit

    Principal Secretary (PS) for the State Department of the National Treasury, Dr. Chris Kiptoo, appeared before the National Assembly’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) on Monday.

    The National Treasury is exploring alternative public-private partnership (PPP) models to finance the country’s mega infrastructure projects following the cancellation of Adani Group-led initiatives for the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO).

    Principal Secretary (PS) for the State Department of the National Treasury, Dr. Chris Kiptoo, stated that the country’s fiscal position is untenable, making it impractical to finance key infrastructure projects like the upgrading and modernization of JKIA through the national budget.

    He emphasized that the current tax regime already burdens taxpayers.

    Appearing before the National Assembly’s Public Accounts Committee on Monday, Kiptoo highlighted the urgent need for JKIA’s modernization.

    He noted that the airport, designed in 1978 to handle 5–7 million passengers annually, is now managing over 10 million passengers, straining its capacity and functionality as East Africa’s primary aviation hub.

    “JKIA, when it was built and designed, was meant to handle about 5–7 million passengers. Today, as the East African hub, it is handling over 10 million passengers. Therefore, it is in dire need of upgrading and modernization to accommodate these numbers,” said Kiptoo.

    The PS explained that the amount required for such a significant project cannot be raised through the national budget.

    “The only viable way to finance this is through a public-private partnership (PPP) model. Since Kenyans have rejected the Adani Group, we will need to identify a partner with better ideas and options to execute the project, not necessarily Adani,” he added.

    The PS had appeared before the Butere MP, Tindi Mwale led the committee to respond to and address the Auditor General’s report for the financial year ending June 30, 2022, concerning the State Department for the National Treasury.

    Funyula MP, Wilberforce Oundo, emphasized that a majority of Kenyans now favor public-private partnership (PPP) models, citing the successful completion of the Nairobi Expressway as a prime example.

    However, he argued that projects like the modernization of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) present challenges that might make them unsuitable for PPP models under certain circumstances.

    “PPP is the way to go when it comes to financing mega projects, given the limited and constrained fiscal space our country is currently facing,” Oundo stated.

    He underlined the necessity of PPP models to bridge the gap between ambitious infrastructure goals and the reality of strained public resources.

    On his part, Bura MP, Yakub Adow, also voiced support for PPPs but stressed the critical need for transparency and public engagement in their implementation.

    He stressed the importance of conducting thorough public participation to educate citizens, ensuring legitimacy and widespread acceptance of such partnerships.

    “The National Treasury must involve the public sufficiently to enlighten the masses and secure legitimacy for these projects. If these deals are shrouded in secrecy, as was perceived in the case of the Adani Group’s proposals for JKIA and KETRACO, it will be disastrous,” Adow warned.

    Chepalungu MP, Victor Koech-Mandazi also agreed that while PPPs represent a viable path forward for financing large-scale projects in Kenya, the government must adopt a transparent, inclusive approach to avoid public mistrust and opposition.

    According to Koech, the state should ensure that all agreements align with the interests of the nation and address concerns raised by all stakeholders.

    “If executed properly, PPPs can play a transformative role in advancing Kenya’s infrastructure agenda without overburdening taxpayers. However, success hinges on transparency, accountability, and meaningful public engagement at every stage of the process,” Koech stated.

  • Kenyan Parliament partners with Switzerland to boost trade ties

    Kenyan Parliament partners with Switzerland to boost trade ties

    Kenya’s National Assembly will collaborate with their Switzerland counterpart to put in place mechanisms that would foster free trade, Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has said.

    Wetang’ula said a delegation of Swiss parliamentarians will visit Kenya in January to kick-start the plans.

    The Speaker made the remarks when he hosted the Swiss Ambassador to Kenya, Mirko Giulietti, who had paid him a courtesy call in his office at Parliament Buildings.

    The two leaders also discussed how to strengthen the bilateral relationship.

    Speaker Wetang’ula noted that through the Parliamentary Friendship Group, the two legislative bodies can expand their engagement in what is expected to add value to the two nations.

    “Kenya can benefit a lot from market opportunities in Switzerland through the free trade initiative,” said Wetang’ula.

    The Ambassador said Swiss MPs have scheduled a visit to the Kenyan National Assembly to commence the engagements.

    Wetang’ula noted that although the House would be on a long recess during the period, he would mobilize MPs for a meeting with their Swiss counterparts.

    While welcoming the envoy, who is only three months old in the office, Wetang’ula pointed out that Kenya and Switzerland enjoy unique similarities of being mini capitals for several missions in the world.

    He informed the envoy that he had put in place a team of parliamentary lawyers to come up with a legal framework borrowed from Switzerland on how to manage Nairobi city.

    The Speaker commended Switzerland for its admirable neutrality in the conflict that bedeviled Europe, noting that the move made her the best choice to be the center of international activities.

    The Ambassador thanked the Speaker for the warm welcome, noting that the meeting was important to him as he settled into office.

    “I am only three months old in Kenya, and this courtesy call is for familiarisation purposes and also to seek the support of the National Assembly to strengthen the diplomatic relations,” he said. Director Speaker’s Office Mr. Steve Apopo attended the meeting.

  • Women MPs meet CJ Koome Over Rising of Gender-based Violence cases

    Women MPs meet CJ Koome Over Rising of Gender-based Violence cases

    During a round-table meeting today with the President of the Supreme Court of Kenya and Chief Justice, Justice Martha Koome, members of the Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) today sought potential areas of collaboration to tackle the rising sexual gender-based violence (SGBV) cases in the country.

    The Chairperson and Kajiado County MP, Leah Sankaire, shared key legislative frameworks that legislators have championed towards addressing SGBV cases, for instance, the Protection Against Domestic Violence Act (2015), the Sexual Offences Act (2006), the Children’s Act (2022), and the Penal Code and Prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation Act (2011).

    She also highlighted the oversight and accountability role played by Members of Parliament to ensure that the SGBV cases receive the attention and action they demand.

    However, Sankaire raised concerns over the increasing frequency of SGBV cases in the country, questioning whether the current legal framework was insufficient.

    She added that the movement of SGBV desks to hospitals from the police stations would provide victims with more access to the judicial system and timely support.

    In addition, the KEWOPA chairperson called on the judiciary to ensure that their registries capture the history of SGBV offenders and review SGBV jurisprudence for any bail to SGBV offenders.

    On strengthening collaboration, Martha Koome highlighted the judiciary’s commitment to addressing the rising GBV cases. She noted that the judiciary had already set up SGBV courts in some parts of the country, with the latest one launched recently in Dagoretti.

    However, she cautioned that the rapid rise in cases poses a challenge due to inadequate SGBV courts and magistrates.

    To address the SGBV cases amicably, Senator Catherine Mumma (nominated) called for a multi-sectoral approach with a forum and data tools on how to report such cases.

    Dagoretti North MP, Beatrice Elachi, underscored the importance of having SGBV courts in all counties, if not constituencies.

    Adding to the challenges encountered by SGBV victims, Senator Gloria Orwoba warned that the delay in assigning investigative officers to SGBV cases could lead to tampering with cases.

    Nairobi County MP Esther Passaris highlighted a worrying trend of SGBV offenders being granted bail, which she said could often lead to cases disappearing in courts.

    Njoro MP, Charity Chepkwony, noted the delay in receiving reports from the government chemist, thus slowing down justice to victims.

    To reduce time taken and financial pressure by SGBV victims and witnesses while seeking justice, the Transzoia County MP, Lilian Siyoi, called for a wholesome approach to ensure that SGBV courts are situated in all parts of the country.

    Kasipul Kabondo MP, Eve Obara, emphasized the need for the judiciary to observe timelines and strict adherence to their service charter.

    On her part, Thika MP, Alice Ng’ang’a pointed out the need to lobby for more funds for the Judiciary and Gender Ministry.

    While noting the concerns of the Women MPs, the Judge of Appeal, who is also a Member of the International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ), Hon. Lady Justice Lydia Achode, commended women lawmakers for a multi-sectoral approach and movement of SGBV desks from police stations to hospitals, noting that there are few experts in the police stations as well as in the government chemists to deal with SGBV cases.

    On issuance of bail to offenders, Principal Magistrate Renee Kitagwa told the legislators that the Judiciary is guided by the constitution when granting bail and that when advised by Police Officers, they do listen and deny bail. 

    In her closing remarks, CJ Koome appealed to women lawmakers to advocate for increased funding to the judiciary to facilitate the establishment of more SGBV courts and the hiring of additional magistrates.

  • MPs Bill to Ensure Timely Remittance of Statutory Deductions by Counties

    MPs Bill to Ensure Timely Remittance of Statutory Deductions by Counties

    Parliament has passed the Public Finance Management Amendment (No. 3) Bill, 2024, with amendments. The bill seeks to amend the Public Finance Management Act to provide for the financing of transferred functions between the two levels of government following Article 187 of the Constitution.

    County governments will be required to submit quarterly reports on their status of statutory deductions, including repayment plans for outstanding amounts. A new provision was added to address delays or failures by county governments in remitting employee salaries and statutory deductions, including taxes, pensions, and social health insurance contributions.

    The bill also empowers the Controller of Budget to withhold funds from counties that persistently fail to remit statutory deductions like taxes, pension contributions, and social security. 

    Counties will now have more time to submit county finance documents. This follows MPs endorsing an amendment extending the timeline for submitting county fiscal strategy papers to the county assembly from February 28 to March 7, and the period for publishing the papers was increased from 14 to 21 days.

    Lawmakers noted that the amendments will strengthen financial discipline and accountability in counties, ensuring timely remittance of statutory deductions and improving cash flow management. 

    Speaking on the Bill, Chairperson of Finance and National Planning, Kimani Kuria, pointed out, “The provisions addressing the financing of transferred functions are designed to avoid disruptions in service delivery during the transfer process. By requiring clear agreements on asset and liability management, the amendments mitigate potential disputes between the two levels of government.”

  • Airtel money Kenya expands agent network, partners with Naivas Supermarket

    Airtel money Kenya expands agent network, partners with Naivas Supermarket

    Airtel Money Kenya has signed a partnership with Naivas Supermarket that will allow Airtel Money customers to deposit and withdraw cash across Naivas branches countrywide. The deal is part of Airtel Money’s proactive strategy to expand its agent footprint and get closer to the customer.

    Speaking during the signing ceremony, Airtel Money Managing Director, Ms. Anne Kinuthia Otieno, said the partnership will significantly bolster their ongoing efforts to enhance access to financial services for their customers through their Mobile Money platform.

    “Today marks a significant milestone for us, as we join hands with Naivas Supermarket to enhance our customers’ convenience. This partnership underscores Airtel Money’s commitment to expanding our reach and ensuring our services are easily accessible. By offering cash deposit and withdrawal services at Naivas branches nationwide, we are strengthening our presence and reaffirming our dedication to providing seamless and affordable financial solutions through our Mobile Money platform,” said Ms. Anne Kinuthia Otieno.

    In addition, customers transacting at the Naivas branches will enjoy free withdrawal services as part of the ongoing ‘Rudishiwa Transaction Fee Campaign.’ Launched in December last year, this campaign refunds withdrawal transaction fees as Airtel Airtime with each withdrawal done. For instance, if a customer withdraws Kes 1,000, incurring a Kes 25 withdrawal charge, they will receive the Kes 25, which can be utilized for airtime, data bundles, or SMS.

    On his part, Airtel Kenya Managing Director Ashish Malhotra highlighted the partnership’s impact in aligning with the company’s mission to prioritize customer convenience. “By leveraging our network expansion, we believe this partnership with Naivas Supermarket is timely and aligns with our commitment to deliver unparalleled convenience. At Airtel Kenya, we are ensuring access and affordability for all our customers, and strategic partnerships like this play a crucial role in achieving that,” emphasized Mr. Ashish Malhotra.

    “We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Airtel Money, enabling our customers to deposit and withdraw cash across all our 109 branches conveniently. This collaboration enhances accessibility and convenience, empowering our customers with seamless financial services. This move perfectly aligns with our mantra: We exist to make other people’s lives better. Our partnership with Airtel Money exemplifies this commitment, as this move ensures smooth and convenient financial transactions. We are proud that this collaboration is a testament to our dedication to improving the lives of our customers.” Said Naivas Chief of Operations, Peter Mukuha.

    Airtel Money Kenya is committed to building an extensive network of agents and anticipates forging additional strategic partnerships with key stakeholders in the market soon.