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Author: Kenyaleo Editorial Team

  • Arita tells Parliament he was the brain behind mobile money banking and ready for the CBK job

    Arita tells Parliament he was the brain behind mobile money banking and ready for the CBK job

    Gerald Arita, the nominee for Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Kenya, has informed Parliament that his 36 years of experience in various roles within the institution have thoroughly equipped him to assume the position if his appointment is approved.

    Appearing before the joint-led committee by Mandera Senator Ali Roba and Molo MP Kuria Kimani Senate and National Assembly Finance, he revealed that he played a pivotal role in establishing mobile money banking.

    Arita told the MPs that then Safaricom CEO Michael Joseph approached him. At the same time, he served as the Director for Bank Supervision with the idea of the telecommunications company coming up with a system in which money could be sent using mobile phones. After that, he advised then Finance Minister John Michuki on the importance of the matter, which was adopted.

    “I was the first person that Safaricom met when it wanted to share a money transfer proposal. Michael Jackson met me when they were introducing M-Pesa. I had a choice of chasing him away or listening to him. I took the initiative to listen to him and went through the product finally and gave them a pilot license; that was one of my biggest achievements.”

    He added, “I then proceeded after that by advising then Finance Minister late John Michuki on the importance of the government allowing that, and it has now revolutionized how money transactions in the country are carried out,” emphasized Arita.

    Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale questioned Arita on how he plans to avoid potential conflicts with Central Bank Governor Kamau Thugge, raising concerns that he, having served at the Central Bank for his entire career since joining as a management trainee in 1988.

    ‘’ Listening to your long resume, you’ve been very senior in the bank, and I’m afraid because this many years in the bank you ran the risk of being a Mr. ‘‘know it all,’’ to the extent you might not accept to work under the governor of the central bank who has not grown in the central bank unless you convince us we might not recommend you.’’

    “I’m a team player; there is no fear the Governor of the Central Bank has the duty of allocating responsibilities to the two Deputy Governors based on their experience and expertise. I do not see how there will be conflict among us since each one of us has got his clear roles to play spelled out; I have represented CBK to market the Eurobond in the US together before, and we’ve worked together when he was a PS,” said Arita.

    Turkana South MP, John Ariko, inquired about the new measures the nominee intends to introduce to the institution, seeking clarification on the security of Kenya’s currency printing, which is currently being handled in Germany, raising concerns about the potential risk of unauthorized individuals replicating the currency abroad.

    If approved, Arita stated that he is committed to ensuring better market coordination and increased liquidity, highlighting the ongoing efforts to provide cash transfers to vulnerable communities as a means of empowerment. He added that lowering inflation remains a key priority, assuring that money printing processes are secure and tamper-proof.

    Baringo North MP Joseph Makilap questioned Arita, saying he was satisfied with his accomplishments so far and ready to retire, and why he chose to apply for the job instead of enjoying a peaceful retirement.

    Arita said, “I retired last month having attained 60 years having served the country in the Central Bank in various capacities for the last 36 years but I still have energy and the necessary experience to serve the country, That is why I believe President William Ruto has nominated me to this position and if approved by this house, I will work.’’

    Kenya has 40 commercial banks, while Nigeria has 20. It is not easy to regulate the number of commercial banks in the country, but the market will determine their viability.

    Mombasa Senator, Mohammed Faki, asked Mr. Arita to comment on the incidents of clients being defrauded in their Bank accounts and what the possible solutions he will offer to end Arita clarified that it’s a serious issue with the Central Bank doing penetration vetting to seal off any loopholes that may lead to customers losing their money with cyber security centers being set up.

    Arita’s net worth is KES 169 million, with his home contributing significantly to this figure. Although he built the house 20 years ago for KES 20 million and acquired the land for KES 5 million, he has valued the property at its current market rate, reflecting its appreciation over time.

  • MPs Conducts Inspections visit to homecare training centers in Mombasa

    MPs Conducts Inspections visit to homecare training centers in Mombasa

    The National Assembly Select Committee on Diaspora Affairs and Migrant Workers conducted an inspection visit today to various specialized training institutions and homecare schools in Mombasa County.

    Leading the delegation, Capt. Ruweida Mohammed, MP (Lamu East), stated that the primary purpose of the visit was to assess whether unskilled workers receive adequate training before traveling for work abroad.

    The Committee visited the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA), Dzikaze Muhoho Training Institute, and Apsolid Vocational Training Institute (AVOTI).

    During interactions with students at Dzikaze Muhoho, concerns were raised regarding difficulties with the pre-departure examination. One student shared her experience of working abroad and returning to Kenya, only to be required to restart classes and retake the pre-departure exam, which she repeatedly failed.

    Among the topics taught at these training institutions are practical skills such as washing clothes using a washing machine, making the bed, using kitchen appliances, cleaning mirrors, woofing carpets and curtains, taking care of children, and learning basic Arabic language to aid communication in work environments abroad.

    Committee Members and NITA officials pledged to address issues raised and urged NITA to develop a system for refresher courses tailored to returning candidates.

    The Committee commended the modern and well-maintained facilities at Apsolid Institute.

    However, during the inspection of NITA’s training center, Members expressed concerns about the incomplete state of the facility and the lack of essential training equipment.

    Acting Director General Ms. Theresa Wasike informed the Committee that the project, funded by the International Labour Organization, had faced delays due to the termination of the contractor’s contract.

    “Efforts are underway to appoint a new contractor on a contract basis.” said Ms. Wasike.

    The session chair urged NITA to expedite the procurement of model house equipment to enhance training efficiency.

  • Regional tourism stakeholders to take lead in environment conservation

    Tourism stakeholders have vowed to take the lead in championing environmentally sustainable initiatives for a thriving tourism business and other economic activities.

    In a two-day-long third edition of the Uganda-Kenya Coast Tourism Conference that ended on Friday in Entebbe, Uganda, players in the tourism sector drawn from Kenya and Uganda underscored the importance of a direct relationship between environment conservation and tourism business.

    Uganda’s Foreign Affairs Minister John Mulimba told the gathering of tourism players that they had a responsibility to protect the environment by adopting practices that not only preserve natural beauty but also enhance the cultural integrity of the communities.

    “Let us remember that our collaboration is not solely about enhancing our tourism sectors; it is about creating jobs that uplift our communities. When we invest in tourism, we invest in the livelihoods of countless individuals’ entrepreneurs, artisans, service providers, and families who depend on this critical industry.” Said the Minister.

    The resolution comes hot on the heels of the Kenya Tourism Board’s (KTB) campaign, One Tourist, One Tree, launched two months ago to rally visitors and Kenyans to plant trees as one of the initiatives toward environmental sustainability.

    The initiative supported by the industry players is a call to travelers to leave a positive legacy by planting a tree, helping to combat climate change, and conserving landscapes, and every tree planted through is a symbol of shared responsibility in the protection of the planet.

    During his address, the Ugandan Minister said there was an urgent need for players in the sector to ensure that as they integrate sustainability into tourism strategies, the same does not come at the expense of ecosystems and cultural heritage

    According to the minister, an inclusive economy through sharing resources for economic livelihoods from tourism proceeds was one of the ways of sustaining the sector.

    The conference also heard that human-wildlife conflict and poverty’s exclusive approach to tourism by overdepending on foreign tourism was a major threat to sustainability and therefore a re-defined strategy to grow the domestic market for the survival of tourism.

    Kenya’s High Commissioner to Uganda, Joash Maangi, expressed his optimism that the Ugandan market for Kenya is going to increase tremendously with elaborate initiatives for a complementary approach in marketing tourism experiences between the two countries.

    In 2023, Kenya received 201,623 visitors from Uganda, improving from 151,121 recorded in 2022, with the High Commissioner disclosing that the expected increase of Kenya Airways flight frequency from Entebbe to Nairobi from four to five times in the immediate future is a clear indication of the traveler growth to Kenya.

    The Movement by road using a national identity card as a travel document, added the High Commissioner, is also a major contributor to the increasing number of Ugandan travelers into Kenya, making it a second-performing market after the USA

    He at the same time called on players in the tourism industry to offer more budget-friendly travel packages to promote regional growth of domestic tourism.

    “There is a need to demystify the myth that tourism is a reserve for foreigners or the rich. Make travel costs affordable to more people. This, however, should not compromise the quality of service,” said the High Commissioner.

    He particularly singled out sporting and cultural events in both countries, such as the recently concluded Elgon Championship Rugby Cup 2024, the WRC Safari Rally, and the upcoming AFCON 2027, as opportunities for affordable packages offered to the Ugandan traveler.

    Kilifi County Deputy Governor Flora Mbetsa Chibule said the county has undertaken efforts towards enhancing eco-tourism offerings, preserving cultural heritage, and improving infrastructure to ensure visitors enjoy seamless and memorable experiences.

    She cited the designation of Gedi Ruins in Malindi as Kenya’s 8th World Heritage Site as a major step towards the sustainability of African culture and heritage. “We are soon going to unveil the newest kid in the block for not only East Africa but the whole of Sub-Saharan Africa! The First Ever Blue Tourism product of its Kind: an underwater museum at Ngomeni, Kilifi County,” disclosed the Deputy Governor 

    She continued, “Our two regions are uniquely complementary. Kilifi County’s pristine beaches, historical landmarks, and world-class resorts align seamlessly with Uganda’s adventure tourism, wildlife sanctuaries, and cultural richness. Together, we can create travel packages that allow visitors to experience the best of both worlds coastline serenity and inland adventure.”

  • MPs Vets Gender and Equality nominee chairperson, Rehema Jaldesa

    MPs Vets Gender and Equality nominee chairperson, Rehema Jaldesa

    Photo Collage of Committee Chairperson, National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) and Commisioner Nominee, Hon Rehema Jaldesa

    The nominee for Chairperson of National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC), Rehema Jaldesa, has pledged to restore the Commission’s influence and effectiveness should she be approved by the House and consequently get appointed to head the Constitutional Commission.

    “If appointed as Chairperson of the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC), I will restore its lost glory” pledged Rehema Dida Jaldesa today during her vetting before the Committee on Social Protection.

    Led by Alice W. Ng’ang’a (Thika Town), the Committee also vetted Mr. Michael Nzomo Mbithuka, who has been nominated to be a Member of the Commission. Legislators were keen to assess the nominees’ capacity to serve in the Commission.

    She described herself as a passionate advocate against gender-based discrimination and highlighted her tenure as Isiolo County Women Representative (2017–2022) as well as other numerous engagements as evidence of her commitment to gender equality.

    She reported to have extensive experience in combating cases of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), Gender-Based Violence (GBV), early childhood marriages, defilement, and discrimination against the vulnerable in society.

    Members engaged the nominee on what she would do in support of the country’s goal to end Gender-Based Violence by 2026.

    Jaldesa proposed a multi-sectoral approach involving government agencies, civil society, and grassroots communities. She emphasized creating operational gender desks and fostering partnerships with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to curb gender violence, including cyberbullying and psychological torture.

    Jaldesa also called for legislative support to bridge gaps in gender equality and social inclusion, citing the need for sustained advocacy for the implementation of the two-thirds gender rule.

    The Committee further sought to know what the nominee would do differently given that currently NGEC has been predominantly silent on major issues with their last media appearance being months ago.

    The nominee pledged to enhance the Commission’s visibility and effectiveness by fostering resource mobilization and partnerships. She decried NGEC’s limited public engagement and emphasized the importance of being vocal in order to foster collaborations and keep the conversation going.

    Reflecting on her personal experiences, Jaldesa remarked that “I have lived through gender-related challenges in my own life. My passion, combined with my professional experience, positions me as the best candidate to lead the Commission.”

    The Committee reiterated the crucial need to put a stop to femicide cases. The resolve echoes the declaration by H.E. the President for a six-month action plan to address rising cases of femicide and Gender-Based Violence, highlighted by the nation recording 97 cases since August 2024.

    Jaldesa also undertook to align with the Government’s renewed focus and assured the Committee of her dedication to this fight, saying, “The Commission must play its rightful role in holding all sectors accountable in ending these vices.”

    The Committee also vetted Mr. Michael Nzomo Mbithuka, nominated for a Member of the Commission. Mr. Nzomo, who lives with albinism, shared his personal experiences of discrimination as a high school student that led to deterioration in his academic performance.

    He highlighted the need for inclusive development, inclusive learning and equity, adding that his academic performance improved only after a teacher helped him through the effects of getting discriminated against.

    Responding to the Committee’s concerns about the neglect of the boy-child, Mr. Nzomo stressed the importance of equally promoting empowerment and mentorship among the male gender as well.

     “We must advocate for the inclusion of boys and men at pivotal stages of their lives, such as during cultural practices including circumcision and in mainstream sectors such as education in order to foster a balanced society”, he stated.

    Speaking of his expertise in digital innovation and corporate partnerships, Mr. Nzomo highlighted research and knowledge management as key resources in developing targeted and impactful gender initiatives.

    He stated that his extensive experience would play a leading role in enhancing NGEC’s research strategies and operations. He also stated the need for greater public engagement and advocacy to address systemic gender inequalities.

    “I will ensure NGEC’s approach to collaborations is strengthened and also hold the Government accountable in support of gender laws and regulations”, he pledged.

    The Committee on Social Protection is scheduled to table its report on the vetting process in the National Assembly on Tuesday, November 26, 2024.

  • MPs direct Oparanya to create awareness on affirmative action funds uptake

    MPs direct Oparanya to create awareness on affirmative action funds uptake

    Trade, Industry, and Cooperative MPs have urged the State Department for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Development to raise awareness about the affirmative action funds available to the public to enhance their uptake.

    Chaired by James Gakuya (Embakasi North), while speaking during a consultative meeting with officials from the Cooperatives and MSMEs Development Ministry led by CS Wycliffe Oparanya, observed that many Kenyans have limited information on the funds.

    The Uwezo Fund and the Financial Inclusion Fund (FIF), commonly known as the Hustler Fund, are among the affirmative action financing programs overseen by the State Department.

    “Many potential beneficiaries have limited access to information about these funds, which has hindered their full utilization,” said the committee chairperson.

    Gakuya, reacting to reports that more than half of the beneficiaries of both Uwezo Fund and Hustler Fund loans have defaulted on their repayment, attributed this to a lack of sufficient information.

    “It is ironic that other digital lenders who offer loans at higher interest rates are thriving with fewer defaulters compared to the Hustler Fund. The Ministry must examine what other industry players are doing differently,” he said.

    Committee Vice Chairperson Marianne Kitany of Aldai, while adding her voice to the matter, emphasized the importance of utilizing local leaders to disseminate information about the funds.

    “Many of us leaders have strong platforms at the grassroots level through which we can share information about the funds. The issue is that we have not been adequately engaged,” said Kitany.

    During the session, CS Oparanya reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BeTA) and stressed the role of the Uwezo Fund as a key component of this vision.

    He noted that the Uwezo Fund has been instrumental in supporting groups such as cooperatives, women, youth, and persons with disabilities and has expanded its reach through decentralized financial support.

    “The Uwezo Fund remains the most practical tool for advancing priority value chains and promoting sustainable community development,” he stated.

    Earlier, Anne Njuguna, the Chairperson of the Uwezo Fund, updated MPs on the fund’s progress, revealing that funds have been disbursed to 82,583 groups across all 290 constituencies.

    She informed the lawmakers that the fund’s repayment rate stands at Ksh 3.07 billion, which represents a low 41%.

    “The high level of non-performing loans is hindering the realization of the fund’s mandate,” she explained, attributing the problem to the misconception that the fund is a grant.

    In addition to discussing the affirmative action funds, the committee also reviewed the Proposed Revision of Uwezo Fund Regulations (2014), Business Model Re-engineering, and the Start-Up Bill 2024.

  • MPs Questions State Agencies Managers over Ethnic Inequality

    MPs Questions State Agencies Managers over Ethnic Inequality

    The National Assembly Committee on Cohesion and Equal Opportunities questioned managers of four government agencies on the ethnic imbalance in staff recruitment.

    The Committee, during a meeting chaired by Mandera West, Yusuf Adan Haji, held accountability meetings with the Chief Executive Officers of Lake Victoria South Water Development Agency and Lake Basin Development Authority.

    Other agencies that faced the House Committee included the Lake Victoria North Water Works Development Agency, Rivatex East Africa, and Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital.

    Haji pointed out that the meetings were a follow-up of similar ones they held with the agencies and directed them to deal with disparities in ethnic balance in employment as required by the law.

    “We have invited the managers of the agencies to make a follow-up on whether they have complied with the law on ethnic balance and the provision of equal opportunities in the state-owned agencies,” said Haji.

    Lake Victoria South Water Works Development Agency (LVSWWDA) CEO Ms. Jackline Kemunto was tasked with why she did not comply with the law that required that at least five percent of staff should be people living with disabilities (PLWDs).

    Nyeri Town MP Duncan Mathenge wondered why the agency declined to provide job opportunities to PLWDs.

    “The last report you presented to the Committee showed you were moving upwards in complying with the law, but the latest report has indicated a decline,” said Mathenge.

    Teso North MP, Oku Kaunya, dismissed Ms. Kemunto’s claims that they could not employ PLWDs because they did not apply for jobs whenever they advertised.

    “How far did the advertisements for jobs for PLWDs reach? Did you use the mediums that they could access easily?” posed the Teso North MP.

    Kaunya and Mathenge called on the agencies to invoke affirmative action in the recruitment of PLWDs to be able to meet the requirements of the law.

    The Lake Basin Development Authority CEO, Mr. Wycliffe Ochianga, was turned away by the Committee after he tabled documents bearing unconvincing evidence.

    Lake Victoria North Works Water Development Agency CEO Mr Joel Wamalwa and Rivatex Managing Director Prof Thomas Kipkurgat were also taken to task by Members on compliance with the law on procurement, employment of youths and PLWDs, and ethnic balance.

    But it is the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) CEO, Dr. Philip Kirwa, who ran into trouble with the Committee after it was revealed that 70 percent of staff in the institution were from one tribe.

    During a session chaired by Mwingi North MP, Eng. Paul Nzengu, MPs expressed their disappointment that the management of the national medical facility had turned it into a tribal institution.

    The Committee threatened to push for the sending of the management of MTRH home if they were not ready to comply with the law on employment.

    “It is shocking that Eldoret city, the home for MTRH, being a cosmopolitan urban area member of many tribes living there, was denied jobs by the management of the hospital,” said Nzengu.

    Kaspul MP, Charles Were noted with concern that one community-dominated promotion in the hospital.

    “How do you explain a situation where out of more than 600 promotion opportunities, one community got 90 percent?” posed Were.

    Other MPs who questioned the failure of Dr. Kirwa to ensure the hospital complied with the law included Charles Kamuren (Baringo South), Mary Maingi (Mwea), Onesimus Ngogoyo (Kajiado North), Mathenge, Fred Ikana (Shinyalu), and Irene Mayaka (nominated).

  • MPs Questions Effectiveness of Kshs. 3.8 Billion Car Loan Scheme Amid Dormancy and Mismanagement Concerns

    The Special Funds Accounts Committee has raised concerns over the purpose and effectiveness of the State Officers and Public Officers Motor Car Loan Scheme (SOPOMCLS).

    During a meeting convened to address pending audit queries, Legislators revealed that the fund valued at Kshs. 3.8 billion, has only facilitated transactions worth Kshs. 641 million since its inception.

    According to reports by the Auditor-General, the fund was dormant between 2015 and 2019, with Kshs. 3 billion sitting idle during that period.

    Further analysis of audit reports uncovered an alleged accounting error where a car grants worth Kshs.9.8 million was recorded in the wrong ledger.

    The scheme’s CEO, Edna Atisa, explained that the fund was established to provide car loans to state officers in the Executive and civil servants under the Public Service Commission.

    She attributed the delay in the fund’s operationalization to challenges in securing a financial institution to administer the scheme.

    MPs questioned the necessity of involving a financial institution that charges a 1 percent interest fee, suggesting that the fund could manage loan processing internally.

    Atisa further stated that the accounting query was because the fund at its inception lacked capacity and therefore staff from the National Treasury, initially managed the fund. Members questioned the competency of the officers who had handled the matter.

    Currently, Kshs. 3.4 billion of the fund is invested with the Central Bank of Kenya, generating a profit of Kshs. 533 million through government securities.

    Lawmakers criticized this approach, arguing that the fund prioritizes investments over fulfilling its mandate of offering car loans to state and public officers.

    “Does this Car Loan Scheme exist to provide car loans to state and public officers, or is your mandate to focus on investments while your clients are neglected?” Session-Chair, sought Kivasu.

    The Committee has directed the fund’s management to reappear for further investigation of financial records leading to 2024.

    In a separate meeting, the Committee examined pending audit queries linked to the Public Service Superannuation Fund.

    The fund’s CEO, Dr. Jonah Aiyabei was tasked to respond to unremitted pension contributions from employers over a one-year period.

    Dr. Aiyabei attributed the issue to system lags during the fund’s initial operations and assured Members that an automated system is being developed and will be operational by March 2025.

    The National Treasury is required to pay a penalty in line with the fund’s regulations for the delayed remittances. The Committee directed the fund’s management to present additional evidence to support their responses to the audit query.

  • Partners Unveil Sustainable Finance Guidelines and Reportas Banks Shine in Sustainability

    Partners Unveil Sustainable Finance Guidelines and Reportas Banks Shine in Sustainability

    The Kenya Bankers Association (KBA), in collaboration with IFC and WWF Kenya, has today launched the revamped Sustainable Finance Guiding Principles and the Landscape of Sustainable Finance in Kenya’s Banking Industry Report as part of ongoing efforts to deepen financial inclusion and sustainability within Kenya’s financial services sector.

    Developed with IFC’s support, the revamped Sustainable Finance Guiding Principles provide a robust framework for banks to integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations into their operations. Alignment with global standards fosters responsible lending, sustainable investments, and innovative financial solutions that address Kenya’s socio-economic and environmental challenges.

    The Landscape Report, supported by WWF-Kenya, highlights key achievements and challenges in sustainable finance. The report indicates that gross loans across 11 key sectors grew by 23 percent since 2020, reaching Sh3.6 trillion in 2022, with MSMEs receiving Sh783.3 billion.

    However, the report cites challenges such as high costs for sustainability-linked bonds, inconsistent sustainability reporting, and limited data standardization that persist. The report identifies opportunities for further investment in green growth sectors, including agriculture, energy, water, manufacturing, and real estate.

    Quotes by Partners and Speakers

    “Sustainable business models and green financing are not mere trends but essential pathways for ensuring long-term economic stability and environmental stewardship. By integrating sustainability into our lending and investment decisions, we can help mitigate climate risks, support green projects, and grow our economies while safeguarding the future of our planet.” Betty Korir, Kenya Bankers Association Vice Chairperson.

    “The Sustainable Finance Initiative has enabled over 50,000 bank employees to make lending decisions that benefit the environment, society, and economy. With the revamped guiding principles, the banking industry is better equipped to adopt best governance and risk management practices, further driving innovation and financial inclusion.” Raimond Molenje, KBA Ag. CEO.

    WWF Kenya Quote

    ‘’Kenya has rich natural resources, a dynamic entrepreneurial spirit, and a robust financial sector that provides a unique platform to champion sustainability. However, with these opportunities come significant responsibilities to adopt an integrated approach that aligns economic activities with the sustainable development agenda. WWF-Kenya will continue to collaborate with the Kenya Bankers Association because we believe in a future of financial prosperity grounded in sustainability a safe legacy that connects people, nature, and the economy.” Mohammad Awer, WWF-Kenya Chief Executive Officer.’’ IFC Quote

    ‘’Application of the SFI principles is important for Kenyan banks as it will promote financing for renewable energy, energy efficiency, sustainable agriculture, and other eco-friendly projects. It will also encourage banks to support projects that enhance social inclusion, gender equality, affordable housing, healthcare, and education. Finally, it will help banks manage environmental and social risks, making informed decisions to protect financial stability.’’ Mary Potter Peschka, IFC Regional Director.

    GIZ Quote

    “As Sustainable Agricultural Systems and Policies (AgSys) through Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, we have initiated a partnership with Kenya Bankers

    Association (KBA) to support financial institutions in exploring sustainable financing opportunities for the agricultural sector. We believe that how we finance our agri-food systems from both public and private sources of capital may be the ultimate game changer since financing is both a driver of food system inefficiencies and an essential ingredient to their transformation. We recognize that climate change impacts how financial institutions perceive risks, especially in the agricultural sector. Therefore, our partnership will enable financial institutions to implement sustainable financing options such as blended finance for investments into nature-based solutions that benefit the planet, beneficiaries, and the financial institutions.’’ Sophia Baumert, Project Manager, Sustainable Agricultural Systems and Policies (AgSys).

    World Wide Fund for Nature Kenya (WWF-Kenya) is a locally registered non-governmental conservation organization and an affiliate of WWF International. WWF has been working in Kenya since 1962 alongside the government, civil society, private sector organizations, and local communities to contribute towards providing an enabling environment for the achievement of a healthy natural environment supporting people and sustainable development in Kenya.

  • Ameso hosts Shisele Tosha, a community-based organisation in Development programs

    Ameso hosts Shisele Tosha, a community-based organisation in Development programs

    Shisele Tosha Community Based Organization (CBO) has called for increased government funding on development projects.

    Speaking during a visit to Parliament, the Women Based CBO raised concerns that the current grant offered to them for development initiatives is insufficient.

    “I request that Parliament and the Commissioner assist us and other CBOs in the county. Why should we be given Kshs 100,000 when we could receive millions in grants to uplift our communities?” she asked. 

    In a historic event, Commissioner Rachel Ameso, on Wednesday hosted Shisele Tosha Community-Based Organization (CBO) at Parliament’s Mini Chamber in County Hall.

    The engagement forum marked the first time a CBO has been officially hosted by the Parliament of Kenya, showcasing a growing recognition of grassroots organizations in national development. 

    Hon. Bernard Shinali (Ikolomani), celebrated the milestone as a proud moment for his constituents.

    “This is the first time Parliament has hosted a CBO since its inception, and it happens to come from my constituents. I am very happy,” he said.

    Discussions during the meeting revolved around enhancing financial support for CBOs to enable them to create a more significant impact.

    Gladys Omukongolo Malenya, MCA for Idakho North Ward and Chairperson of the CBO, passionately appealed for increased grants.

    Rachel Ameso commended CBO members and pledged her full support for grassroots initiatives, particularly those led by women.

    “I’m delighted to welcome you to Parliament. You have done an amazing job by forming this CBO. You are women with good hearts, and I will always support all women and Kenyans, starting with Ikolomani Constituency and the 11 constituencies in Kakamega,” she stated. 

    The event was graced by leaders, including Members of Parliament Mishi Mboko, Millie Odhiambo, Beatrice Elachi, Nabii Nabwera and former Kakamega County First Lady Priscilla Oparanya.

    Their attendance underscored the importance of grassroots advocacy in driving national development. 

    This landmark event highlights the growing collaboration between Parliament and community-based organizations. It sets a new precedent for integrating local initiatives into Kenya’s national agenda, demonstrating Parliament’s commitment to empowering grassroots movements. 

    Shisele Tosha CBO’s visit symbolizes the power of women-led organizations to influence policy and underscores the importance of investing in community-driven solutions for sustainable development.

    The Shisele Tosha CBO is a women-led initiative aimed at empowering communities through resource mobilization and innovative solutions.

  • Airasia X Makes Historic Direct Flight from Kuala Lumpur to Nairobi

    The maiden AirAsia X flight receives a water salute upon landing at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), Nairobi on Friday evening.

    Kenya’s efforts to attract tourists from Malaysia and the larger Asian market have been greatly boosted after low-cost carrier AirAsia X (AAX) inaugural flight to Kenya touched down at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).

    The flight from Kuala Lumpur landed Friday evening with 377 travelers signifying a significant milestone in Kenya’s quest to diversify its tourist source markets.

    This development is also expected to strengthen ties between the two countries, boost cultural exchange, and enhance economic collaboration through increased tourism and trade.

    While receiving the flight, Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife Rebecca Miano said that the direct air link affirms Kenya’s growing significance in the global tourism and travel landscape.

    “Kenya is now firmly established as a regional hub and a widely recognized leader in air transport across the continent. We are delighted to have AirAsia X consider Kenya as a partner for its expansion into the African continent. This will greatly contribute to the target that we have of increasing our numbers to 5 million by 2027.

    As a country that prides itself on warm hospitality, Kenya looks forward to welcoming more visitors through this connection and harnessing new opportunities for trade, investment, and tourism cooperation between our two nations,” Miano said.

    She noted that the launch aligns well with Kenya’s commitment to expanding air connectivity, which she identified as vital for attracting global visitors.

    “On this flight, we have received visitors from China, Japan, the Philippines, Singapore, and Australia. This route opens the whole of Pacific Asia, and we are grateful for this. We are actively engaging with more carriers and collaborating with the Ministry of Transport to address bottlenecks that may hinder airlines from launching more routes to Kenya. AirAsia X’s direct flight is a crucial catalyst in this strategy, allowing us to tap into key source markets with more competitive pricing,” the CS stated.

    The airline will operate four weekly flights between the two capital cities, providing a convenient and affordable option for travel between Southeast Asia and East Africa.

    Apart from facilitating travel, the Kuala Lumpur-Nairobi connection will also enable AirAsia X to offer convenient fly-thru options to over 130 destinations in Asia Pacific and Australia. This expanded network will drive traffic and trade between Southeast Asia and East Africa.

    High Commissioner of Malaysia to Kenya, Ruzaimi Mohamad, expressed his excitement about AirAsia X’s inaugural direct flight from Kuala Lumpur to Nairobi. “This new route is a significant milestone in our relations,” he stated. “We are thrilled to witness this direct connection, which will undoubtedly boost the number of tourists, business travelers, and students between our two countries. Strengthening these ties will foster greater understanding and collaboration, driving mutual economic growth.”

    He added, “Malaysia and Kenya share many opportunities for cooperation, and this direct link opens new avenues for partnerships in trade, education, and tourism. I am confident this route will deepen the friendship between our nations and help showcase the unique beauty and culture each has to offer.”

    On her part, Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) CEO June Chepkemei highlighted the flight’s strategic timing, ahead of the peak festive season. She noted that the Asia Pacific region delivered over 320,000 visitors to Kenya in 2023, with Malaysia being one of the fastest-growing source markets.

    “AirAsia X’s entry into Kenya has been a long-awaited development that we have eagerly anticipated. The fact that they have chosen Nairobi as their first destination in Africa, speaks of Kenya’s potential not just as a safari destination, but also a business and investment hub,” Chepkemei said.

    “Recently, KTB and AirAsia X signed a collaborative agreement on enhancing connectivity between Asia and Africa to drive tourism in both regions. This direct flight is the first step in that journey and takes us closer to realizing the full potential of this partnership. We look forward to welcoming travelers on this route to experience Kenya’s diverse and authentic attractions,” she added.

    The partnership between AirAsia X and KTB includes joint promotional activities, coordinated marketing campaigns, and collaborative efforts to enhance travel experiences, leveraging the strengths of both organizations to attract more tourists and stimulate economic growth.