During the launch of KNBS strategic Plan 2023-2027
Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) has today launched the fifth Strategic Plan for the period 2023 to 2027. The Strategic Plan outlines KNBS’ strategic focus areas on data accuracy, integrity, and timely dissemination to enable evidence-based decision-making across various sectors of the economy.
Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) has also developed the Kenya Statistical Code of Practice (KeSCoP) and established a Data Science Training Center also launched today.
KeSCoP will act as a technical and ethical standard instrument for continuous improvement of the quality of official statistics, while the Data Science Training Center aims to explore the use of new methods in statistics production and dissemination such as data science, artificial intelligence, machine learning.
“The Kenya Statistics Code of Practise is a document that sets the professional Standards that producers of official Statistics must commit to when producing and releasing of official Statistics. It is also a benchmark for quality assesment of official Statistics.” Said Dr. Mark Obudho Director General KNBS.
An estimated 160 public sector, development partners, private sector, and civil society actors including policy analysis experts from across the country and international development practitioners will participate in the launch event to be held in person in Nairobi.
The plan requires Ksh 52,538.10 Million for full implementation for the 5 years period. It will also cater for the deficit of 26,283.27 a resource mobilization strategy 2023-2027.
Dr. Robert Pukose, Endebess MP and Chair of the National Assembly Committee on Health, Prof. Olive Mugenda, Board Chairman of the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral, & Research Hospital, and Ahmed Dagane, the Chief Executive Officer, are pictured during the committee’s visit to the institution.
The National Assembly’s Health Committee Instructs Kenyatta University Management to Cease Consideration of Reverting Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral, and Research Hospital (KUTRRH) Ownership.
MPs instructed the University Vice Chancellor, Paul Wainana, to cooperate with the hospital management to benefit students in the schools of medicine, nursing, pharmacy, public health, and dentistry.
The university’s vice chancellor, Prof. Paul Wainana, and the hospital’s board chairperson, Prof. Olive Mugenda, engage in public dispute over hospital management rights.
“To revert KUTRRH to Kenyatta University, it would therefore be mandatory to revoke the legal notice No. 4 of 2019 governing its establishment. Which will not be possible, university management must leave with the fact that KUTRRH is a state department under the Ministry of Health, therefore, oversight by this committee,” said Endebess MP Dr. Robert Pukose, Chairperson of the Health Committee.
“It is the health committee that appropriates money to KUTRRH while our sister committee on education oversees and appropriates funds to Kenyatta University, so the feuding must end and everyone must respect his space,” Dr. Pukose added.
Dr. Pukose spoke today during the fact-finding mission at KUTRRH to assess its capacity and services, particularly in the realm of cancer treatment and diagnosis.
The committee visit aimed to evaluate the hospital’s infrastructure, technology, expertise, and patient care practices in managing cancer diseases.
“The committee has observed with great pleasure that the hospital boasts of modern infrastructure and facilities tailored to cancer treatment and diagnosis. This includes advanced imaging equipment, radiation therapy facilities, and specialized oncology units,” said Dr. Pukose.
“We want you to remain in the realm of cancer treatment and diagnosis because you are recognized as a specialized hospital at level six hospital, many Kenyans now depend on you and we don’t want you to veer off from that trajectory,” he added.
Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral, & Research Hospital offers a holistic approach to cancer care, encompassing prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment, and palliative care.
In his remarks, Patrick Munene, the Chuka/Igambang’ombe MP and vice-chairperson of the committee, commended the hospital management for their holistic approach to cancer care, praising the integration of diverse medical specialties and supportive services aimed at delivering comprehensive care to cancer patients.
“We are happy that the hospital has assembled a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals specializing in oncology, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgical oncologists, pathologists, and supportive care specialists. This expertise ensures that patients receive personalized and evidence-based care tailored to their specific needs,” said Munene.
Kisumu Central MP Joshua Oron advocates for increased investment in research, clinical trials, and advanced technologies to improve cancer treatment outcomes and drive medical innovation.
Nandi Women representative Cynthia Muge-Rotich acknowledged efforts by the hospital to enhance the accessibility and affordability of cancer care services.
“Initiatives such as subsidized treatment programs, partnerships with insurance providers, and community outreach programs aim to mitigate financial barriers and ensure equitable access to quality cancer care,” said Muge.
Prof. Olive Mugenda, Chair of the KUTRRH Board, expressed gratitude to the committee for their unwavering support for the institution. She assured the committee of the hospital management’s steadfast dedication to its mandate.
Despite the hospital’s commendable efforts, the committee identified challenges such as limited resources, workforce shortages, and infrastructure constraints.
Proposals were put forward to tackle these issues, encompassing heightened government funding, initiatives to bolster capacity, and fostering strategic partnerships with academic institutions and international organizations.
From left, sitting Robert Mbui, Kathiani Mp, and Deputy Leader of Minority in the National Assembly. James Opiyo Wandayi, Minority Leader in the National Assembly. Makali Mulu Kitui Central, MP
Opposition MPs have dismissed the announcement by the government on Monday that it will disburse the outstanding capitation funds to public schools in the next 10 days.
MPs allied to the Azimio La Umoja Coalition termed the promise a “game of lies” and called on teachers and parents to overcome fear and speak out boldly for Kenyan children whose future is being stolen by the government.
At a press conference in parliament buildings, the company of twelve MPs said they have lost count of the numerous times such promises have been made since the Kenya Kwanza regime took over.
“No plausible reason has been given as to why funds that should have been disbursed at the beginning of the term are only being disbursed towards the end of the term,” said National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi.
The MPs faulted the Ministry of Education, accusing it of setting up school heads for ridicule, failure, and blame.
“In this game of lies, our children are collateral,’’ said Wandayi.
The MPs were reacting to a statement attributed to PS Kipsang when he told the Public Accounts Committee of the National Assembly on Monday that the government will next week release Sh16.25 billion toward free secondary education capitation.
PS Kipsang, who had appeared before the Committee and responded to audit queries for the year ended June 30, 2022, noted that the government allocated Sh65 billion for free secondary education capitation in the current financial year.
However, the Azimio team expressed dissatisfaction with the promise, saying that whenever the fee disbursement queries are raised, the government manages the school heads and the public by issuing statements that monies are set to be released to schools.
“Whenever the Ministry of Education has come under pressure over the disbursement of funds to schools, they do what they did yesterday; they assemble the media, put together some figures, and announce that the money will be released the following week. Most times, it never gets done, and when it is done, it is never sufficient,’’ said Wandayi.
The MPs challenged the government to deliver on the accrued promises in the education sector, noting that it is the cause of the difficulties Kenyan parents are going through.
“We are here to call out the government on the lies that have now crippled schools and exposed otherwise innocent principals and teachers to the wrath of parents and learners who buy into government lies that funds have been released to schools and other learning institutions,” said the statement.
Kitui Central MP Makali Mulu challenged the government to give clarity and a way forward on matters of free education due to the prevailing situation in the education sector.
“We are challenging the Kenya Kwanza regime to come out and tell Kenyans whether it has done away with free primary and free secondary education because, from the look of things, this seems to be the case,” Mulu said.
Naivas Supermarket has proudly announced the launch of the third edition of their highly anticipated seasonal campaign. Designed to resonate authentically with Kenyan values while offering unforgettable experiences, this campaign aims to surpass customer expectations.
Amidst challenging economic times, with inflation burdening Kenyan households and global supply chain disruptions escalating costs, Naivas recognizes the pressing need to support its customers. Rodney Wood, Chief Commercial Officer, emphasized the company’s commitment to providing the best value for money. He stated, “As a homegrown brand dedicated to improving lives, we are determined to exceed expectations and alleviate the strain on our customers.”
Building on the success of previous years, Naivas pledges to further enhance customer experience by offering even larger shopping baskets. This initiative aims to assist shoppers in navigating these challenging times with greater ease. Peter Mukuha, Naivas Chief of Operations, explained, “Our ‘NAIVAS KIKAPU KIBONGE SUPAA SAFARI’ campaign reflects our dedication to serving as the dependable big brother for Kenyan consumers.”
Recognizing the importance of collaboration, Naivas has partnered with suppliers to ensure customers enjoy exceptional value across all product categories, including fresh produce, groceries, household items, and electronics. Mukuha emphasized, “By working together, we can ensure that our customers receive unparalleled benefits throughout the campaign.”
With 103 outlets nationwide, Naivas remains committed to providing accessible and affordable shopping solutions for every Kenyan household. As the campaign unfolds, Naivas invites customers to experience the journey of “big shopping” the Naivas Kilocol way.
“In a period marked by economic uncertainty, Naivas stands firm in its pledge to support Kenyan families, ensuring that each customer leaves with a truly fulfilling shopping experience,” concluded Mukuha.
The President’s Award-Kenya (PA-K) held a media forum to offer journalists a platform on learning more about the organization.
The Occassion was graced by Hon. Ababu Nwamba Cabinet Secretary Youth Affairs, Creative Economy & Sports, different stakeholders and other partners.
PA-K is an Agency established by an Act of Parliament, President’s Award Act No.
30 of 2017 and a state department under the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative
Economy and Sports. President’s Award is an exciting self-development programme available to all young people countrywide equipping them with positive life skills to make difference for themselves, their communities, country and the world.
“PA-K stands as a cornerstone in youth empowerment and the promotion of the creative economy. The State Agency seamlessly aligns with the government’s steadfast commitment to fostering job opportunities and nurturing wealth creation among Kenya’s youth populace.
The Award lies emphasis on skills development providing young people with invaluable opportunities to explore and cultivate personal interests, unleash their creativity, and enhance practical skills. Through engaging in activities such as music, arts and crafts, communication, and various other activities, participants not only broaden their skill sets but also unlock their potential for innovative thinking and entrepreneurial endeavors.” Said Ababu Namwamba Cabinet Secretary Youth Affairs, Sports and Creative Economy.
The CS further observed that, additionally, PA-K champions Physical Recreation as an integral component of youth development. By encouraging active participation in sports and physical activities, the Award fosters improved health, enhanced fitness levels, and overall well-being among young individuals. Whether through ball sports, athletics, water sports, or martial arts, participants are empowered to embrace a lifestyle conducive to holistic growth and vitality. Allowing the youth to continue in sports professionally as the program requires dedication and time.
In essence, The President’s Award-Kenya serves as a catalyst for nurturing a generation of dynamic, skilled, and physically active youth. Through its multifaceted approach to personal development, it not only equips young people with the tools they need to thrive in the creative economy but also instills in them the resilience, determination, and vision required to shape a prosperous future for themselves and their communities.
PA-K’s presence extends across diverse settings offering structured programs framework for youth development.
In schools, PA-K is an extracurricular activity, providing opportunities for students aged 14-24 to participate in various sections of the Award program.
PA-K is also active in colleges and universities, catering to the unique needs and aspirations of young adults, enhancing their personal and professional development.
PA-K’s initiatives align with the principles of BETA by empowering youth and fostering economic growth at the grassroots level.
Through PA-K’s programs, youth are equipped with skills, encouraged to innovate, and enabled to contribute to their communities’ economic prosperity.
Athletics & Sporting contributes to gross national productivity. Kenya boasts a rich heritage in athletics, with numerous world-class athletes consistently showcasing their prowess on the global stage. The award has led to identifying talents and nurturing it at a young age.
During the Launch of Raphta Road Residents Association.
The residents of Raphta Road came together on Thursday 14th March to Launch their own Association.
The Association will give them one voice in securing the neighbourhood from proliferation of uncontrolled development, rising insecurity, erratic water and power, noise pollution and environment degradation.
Present at the Occassion was; Hon. Robert Alai MCA Kileleshwa ward, Residents, Chairman Raphta Road Resident Association, Architect Association of Kenya representatives, Kilimani Power, Local administration, KARA and Elected Representatives.
“We are launching to tackle issues like; Security, water shortage at Raphta and Electricity blackouts. Residents have so many other issues. We also realized we need partnership with other Organisations.
The regustration is also easy for new members as we also set up an office for the Association. This will enable the Association management is right towards engaging with members always in a smooth and easy manner.” Said the Chairman of the Association.
The occassion also showed the importance of uniting together as a Family.
One can also check the full information regarding the association in the website Raphta Road Residents Association.
Robert Alai MCA Kileleshwa Observed that, there is always a need to unite as a Society and use a smart way as learned people towards making plans for development. For roads safety, comfort and Mobility this is needed and Yesterday, I drafted a motion that looks to employ a plan that allows different faces to have integrated Systems.
During the first Day of EAC Scholarship Consultative Meeting in Nairobi.
Inter-University Council for East African Community (EAC) Students Mobility held a Scholarship Consultative Meeting in Nairobi Kenya to discuss on revitalizing the regional university student mobility programme.
Various issues discussed included; Achieving harmonized degrees, Accredited Programs and Mobility which is free movement of skills and students in the region.
Present during the occassion were; The Vice Chancellors of Member Universities, Deputy Vice Chancellors, The ChairPerson, IUCEA Student and Staff Mobility Committee,
Executive Directors of Students Loan Board/Student Financing & Loan Boards in EAC Partner States, Deputy Executive Secretary, IUCEA, Prof Rai and Colleagues from IUCEA Secretariat.
“It is my distinct honor to welcome you all to the East African Community Student Mobility Scheme (EAC-SMS) consultative meeting.
I take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you for being able to find time to participate in this meeting, which for us is a clear testimony of your commitment as our members to engage in IUCEA initiatives and the development and the transformation of EAC higher education for a successful integration through increased university exchange and mobility of students and staff.” Said Prof. Gaspard Banyankimbona Executive Secretary EAC.
He further observed that, Two years ago 7-9th March 2022, they met in Nairobi to reflect on which direction to take as to deliver on the core mandate, specifically on promotion of students mobility in the region and staff exchange between member universities, and providing scholarships to students and grants to teaching and research assistants.
The meeting was hosted by the University of Nairobi and thanked Prof. Kiama for his continued support.
During that meeting, IUCEA secretariat, as directed by the 10th Executive Committee meeting submitted a proposal to establish a Multilateral East Africa Community Scholarship Programme now known as East African Community Student Mobility Scheme (EAC-SMS).
The proposal had in itself several benefits and was meant to involve different actors ranging from universities, the business community, NGOs, development partners, guardians or parent and others.
These benefits includes:
a. Fast track implementation of the EAC Common Higher Education Area as institutions are expected to operationalize mutual recognition of qualifications, credit accumulation and transfer.
b. Boost internationaization of member universities.
c. Revive more mobility of students in the region,
d. Support EAC Partner States to address key human resource deficiencies.
e. Provide an opportunity to benchmark against each other and ultimately improve the quality of our academic and professional programs.
f. Contribute to a key pillar of regional integration, namely the Common Market Protocol as graduates of this programs will be able to move their skills from one partner state to another.
Vice-Chancellors and other stakeholders present at the Nairobi meeting in 2022 commended the initiative, committed to support it and recommended it for submission to the IUCEA Governing Board for approval on its way towards implementation.
There was a commitment to provide scholarships ranging from Bachelors , Masters, to PhDs.
After securing a considerable number of scholarships through these commitments, IUCEA launched a call for application from potential students which was very successful in terms of applications for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. However, there were various challenges.
The meeting therefore aims to discuss about the challenges together, to chart on a common understanding on most suitable approach to implement the scholarship scheme.
EAC hence,appealed to its members directly to brainstorm and come out with a way forward on how best to implement this commendable initiative that is expected to revitalize the regional university student mobility programme that was once very popular in the region.
As part of the implementation of the EAC Common Higher Education Area, IUCEA has been running various scholarship programmes. These scholarship programmes are project–based and limited in time scope to the end of the project periods and have few slots for the many deserving students of East Africa. Moreover, only a few universities in the region are involved in these projects-based scholarship schemes.
The EAC Student Mobility Scheme is meant to be our indigenous student exchange, inter-University and Inter EAC Partner States programme. It is one of the ways to demonstrate the self-sustainability of students mobility in the region which will enhance credibility towards the EAC community.
As states earlier, EAC-SMS scholarship program requires joint contributions from universities, parents, and IUCEA, each with specific responsibilities as provided for in the EAC SMS Guidelines and commitment forms.
The two days’ workshop seek to primarily:
a. To enhance an understanding of the EAC-SMS among now the participating institutions.
b. To discuss and agree on appropriate approach to operationalise the EAC-SMS,
c.To enhance EAC-SMS implementation guidelines that are agreed upon by all parties.
d. To revise and agree on the call for applications.
Wekesa Barasa played a pivotal role as he steered the Tujiamini Cheza Dimba winners Rockstars.
FC to a 1-0 victory against Nakalira FC, to further widen the gap against their opponents in Zone B of the FKF
Western Region League.
The goal that came in the 29th minute secured maximum points for the home team solidifying their place on the
standings where they lie at 4th with 24 points, while Nakalira settled for 5th with 20 points.
The outcome of the much anticipated derby earned Rockstars FC bragging rights having so far won seven matches, drawing in three and losing four after playing 14 matches out of 22.
Speaking during the match, Rockstars FC Team Manager, Ronald Mugera, said the match was a crucial tie up for the team, with the win giving them a much needed four point lead ahead of Nakalira FC.
Mugera lauded the recent financial injection received from the Tujiamini Initiative, noting that it will boost the team’s efforts of getting into the FKF Division 2 League.
“I think we are going to have the easiest time managing the team because of the availability of resources. As we now focus on the qualifiers, we want to nurture and position our players for higher leagues, and through Tujiamini’s three year sponsorship, we now have a clear plan towards achieving this,” said Mugera.
The Tujiamini Initiative powered by SportPesa aims to identify and recognize local talent with its unique approach
and commitment in exposing and rewarding talent and passion in sports towards sustaining grass roots sports
development in the country.
Further enunciating the team manager’s sentiments, the team captain Emmanuel Wanjala expressed the team’s renewed vigour adding that the sponsorship was a big motivating factor for players to exert themselves and aim higher in the league.
“The support has come at the opportune time seeing as we have been struggling to attend some matches due to lack of resources. As players, we shall work hard to bring results that can propel us to the
top tier leagues”, he said.
Rockstars FC are the inaugral winners of the Cheza Dimba Awards in the Tujiamini initiative securing a three year sposnsorship deal worth 250,000 shillings annually alongside kit support.
They are among community-owned football teams that receive the support in a bid to foster grass-roots football talent.
During the Launch of ARDHI APP at ufungamano Nairobi.
The Kenya Land Alliance (KLA) has today launched HAKI ARDHI APP – a women land rights reporting tool- in Nairobi as part of its International Women’s Day celebration. The event, which was held at Ufungamano House, attracted close to 200 women from across the country and various stakeholders, including government officials.
The Haki Ardhi App was last year rolled out in Kakamega County and Taita Taveta County and has been very instrumental in documenting land rights injustices faced by women in these areas, including land succession problems, forced evictions, land grabbing, denial of access to their property among others.
The tool, which also has a Toll-Free Text function (victims can send messages to 23583 to report their situation and access remedy) has been so effective that the courts, through the Chief Magistrate in Kakamega, are interested in the data to help accelerate the prosecution of some of the stalled land rights violation cases where women are victims.
During the ceremony, Kenya Land Alliance outlined its three-year plan for HAKI ARDHI APP, which includes the training of training of 20 paralegals in 30 counties, enhancement of its legal aid services to bring pro-bono legal assistance to members of the community who can not afford the services of advocates or lawyers and addressing some of the country’s land and natural resources policy deficits. The HAKI ARDHI APP is domiciled in several InfoHubs across Taita Taveta county and Kakamega County and is overseen by paralegals and legal assistants.
The HAKI ARDHI APP has so far registered 130 cases (both in Taita Taveta County and Kakamega County) out of which 6 have been successfully followed-up and solved.
“Our goal, in the next few months, is to roll-out the use of the HAKI ARDHI APP in more counties within Kenya, so that we can address the myriad of land rights injustices that women in Kenya face. Both rural women and urban women in the country face daily harassment, mistreatment and at times life threatening land rights related violence. It is our aim, to provide a free, secure and dependable reporting mechanism so that women can access the remedies that they so much need,” said Faith Alubbe, the CEO of Kenya Land Alliance.
The HAKI ARDHI APP has been developed in partnership with the Rainforest Foundation UK (RF-UK) as the technical partner and TMG ThinkTank For Sustainability.
Kenya Land Alliance (KLA) is an umbrella network of Civil Society Organizations and individuals across Kenya who are committed to effective advocacy for the reform of policies and laws governing land in Kenya.
The organization was established to create an institutional mechanism to advocate for enabling land laws and policies in order to ensure secure and equitable access to land and natural resources in Kenya. Kenya Land Alliance was formed as a Trust in 1999. It was later registered as a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) in July 2013.
Our Program Areas are; Women Land Rights, Land Governance, Community Land Protection, Land and Institutional Frameworks and Youth and Land.
Currently, the organization is implementing several key national land rights related initiatives across 25 counties in Kenya. These initiatives include Community Land registration projects, GIS Mapping and Social Cartography to determine how communities interact with natural resources like forests, enhancing the reporting of women land rights violations through our Haki Ardhi digital App, robust public engagement programs that include regular Legal Aid Clinics and initiatives that target national and country government policy making organs to mention just a few.
Party Leader & National Chairman, Farmers Party; Patron: Irungu Nyakera Foundation, Addressing a past event in the KEMSA function
In a recent address, Hon. Irungu Nyakera, Chairman of the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA), candidly acknowledged the daunting challenges faced by the organization.
However, through unwavering dedication and strategic initiatives, the hurdles have been overcome, leading to remarkable progress.
Hon. Irungu Nyakera elucidated the initial obstacles, including logistical convolutions, financial constraints, and the imperative need for meticulous planning and collaboration with stakeholders. Despite these challenges, he underscored the organization’s commitment to triumph by implementing tailor-made solutions and persistent follow-up.
“The Kisumu Regional Distribution Centre stands as a testament to the promises fulfilled by the Board and management to revolutionize KEMSA into a more impactful contributor to the healthcare delivery system,” affirmed Hon. Irungu Nyakera.
The facility is designated to receive, process, and distribute medical supplies across the Great Lakes Region, initially catering to 10 counties in the Nyanza, Western, and North Rift Regions, with a gradual expansion to serve 19 counties by the end of the year.
KEMSA Health products are ready for supply
Expressing delight, Hon. Irungu highlighted the ample space of the facility, designed to facilitate efficient supply and cold chain solutions for essential medical supplies.
“This decentralization initiative is aligned with the Fourth Schedule of the Constitution, aiming to streamline order processing at the National Supply Chain Center and reduce the order turnaround time by approximately 40 percent,” emphasized Hon. Irungu.
The chairman reported that the Kisumu Regional Distribution Centre has successfully processed essential medicine orders from four counties, with a cumulative value exceeding Kshs. 120 million. Moreover, he revealed KEMSA’s substantial strides in enhancing procurement processes, asserting,
“In the past half-year, we have made significant progress in strengthening procurement to realize value for money. The board remains optimistic that these efforts will significantly impact the cost of medical commodities by the end of this financial year.”
Over the last 10 months, KEMSA has dispatched over Kshs. 22,523,862,340 worth of Essential Medicines and Medical Supplies (EMMS) and National Health Strategic Programs (NHSP) supplies nationwide. Hon. Irungu Nyakera emphasized the organization’s resurgence, stating, “KEMSA is regaining its sparkle as the last-mile delivery of more than 86,040 EMMS and NSPHP supplies dispatched to over 8,954 health facilities countrywide is no mean feat.”
Hon. Irungu Nyakera assured the public, “We are up to the task bestowed upon us because we are your healthcare partners. We commit to tirelessly working to ensure that health commodities are delivered and available for patients’ use as required.”
The newly inaugurated Regional Distribution Centre is envisioned as an all-encompassing solution hub, providing quality assurance, storage, cold chain facilities, and administrative functions to fortify an effective KEMSA.
