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Category: TRENDING

  • Hon Muteti Murimi Confident of Governor Waigurus leadership

    Kirinyaga Governor Hon. Waiguru and the Team

    Kirinyaga County Assembly Speaker The Hon Speaker Muteti Murimi has expressed optimism and confidence in the leadership of her Excellency the Governor Anne Mumbi Waiguru.

    “147.5 Million shillings in bursaries was today issued to 45,000 students in secondary schools, university and colleges from Kirinyaga County.

    Free complete set of uniforms was also issued to all our 15,000 ECDE learners across the county from our Kaitheri Apparel factory. Green uniforms are for Kirinyaga Central and Kirinyaga East and Blue uniforms are for Kirinyaga West and Mwea .

    We distributed teaching and learning materials for our 15,020 children and 399 teachers in all the 200 public ECDEs.”

  • National Assembly defense team vets ambassadorial nominees

    The National Assembly Committee on Defense, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations today commenced approval hearings for persons nominated for appointment as Ambassadors, High Commissioners, Permanent Representatives, and Consuls-General.

    The Committee, chaired by Nelson Koech (Belgut), vetted nominees for High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Uganda, Canada, Islamic Republic of Iran, and Zambia.

    The Committee scrutinized Ms. Catherine Kirumba Karemu, nominee for High Commissioner to the United Kingdom. Members highlighted the trade imbalance between Kenya and the UK. “Kenya’s relationship with the UK is long-standing and special but unequal,” stated Abdikadir Mohamed (Lagdera).

    “Getting a visa is challenging. The movement of Kenyans to and fro the UK is now a challenge”, added Moses Kirima (Central Imenti)

    On trade, members noted the ban on miraa (khat) exports to the United Kingdom, which has negatively impacted farmers. Elijah Memusi (Kajiado Central) asked, ” Kenya used to export meat and meat products to the UK. What can you do to bring this back?

    In response, nominee Ms. Karemu pledged to leverage existing trade agreements and marketing efforts to boost Kenyan exports, particularly the currently banned miraa.

    The nominee for High Commissioner to Uganda, Joash Arthur Maangi, faced questions regarding the ongoing Migingo Island dispute and the harassment of Kenyan fishermen by Ugandan security forces and pastoralists near Mt. Elgon.

    Mr. Joash Maangi informed the meeting of the Ministerial Commission on International Boundaries, which was formed to tackle cross-border disputes. He also

    Members, however, expressed concern regarding Kenya losing trade opportunities with Uganda, its largest trading partner.

    On his part, Lt. Gen. (Rtd.) Jonah Mwangi, the nominee for Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Iran, acknowledged the potential for increased trade between Kenya and Iran.

    Kwenya Thuku (Kinangop) questioned the availability of trade opportunities, noting the international sanctions affecting Iran and limiting its financial transactions.

    While responding, Lt. Gen. (Rtd.) Jonah Mwangi pointed to Iran’s large population and central location as ideal for Kenyan exports, particularly agricultural products not subject to international sanctions.

    The fourth nominee, Ms. Caroline Kamende Daudi, nominated as High Commissioner to Canada, was put to task on the significant trade imbalance between Kenya and Canada.

    Yusuf Hassan (Kamkunji) asked, “We do not do a lot of trade with Canada, yet Canada exports many products to Kenya?”

    Legislators also raised alarm over the challenges faced by Kenyans applying for visas to Canada. Moses Kirima (Central Imenti) pointed to the lengthy wait times for students and skilled laborers for visas.

    Ms. Daudi stressed the need for bilateral talks between Kenya and Canada to find a resolution. She also pledged to work towards actualizing existing bilateral trade agreements and exploring opportunities in the export of textiles, wheat, and mechanical equipment.

    Members of the Committee on Defense, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations also vetted Lilian Tomitom, who was nominated for the position of High Commissioner, Lusaka, Zambia.

    The Committee acknowledged that she had previously served as the West Pokot County MP.

    The Committee on Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations will continue to conduct approval hearings for the remaining nominees following Article 124 (1).

  • Kenyatta Family Irritated by Illegal Take-over of their 49 Plots at EastLeigh

    During the press Briefing at Eastleigh

    The Kin family of the first wife of the nation Jomo Kenyatta, is pleading with Cabinet Secretary for Land and Nairobi county government to step in and support them, claiming that private developers have recently taken possession of 49 plots out of 60 in Eastleigh.

    In defiance of the family’s injunction against the developers, development is allegedly underway in the allegedly appropriated plots. It is claimed that the new construction started following the retirement of Uhuru Kenyatta, the fourth president.

    Now that the developers have threatened the family, telling them not to pursue their legal rights and demanding protection, they are living in fear.

    Part of Plots being Developed at Eastleigh

    The difficulties they have encountered over the past two years as they have moved from office to office seeking an injunction to stop the development of the plots all in vain were described by Kamau Njoroge Muigai, a Kin to Uhuru Kenyatta.

    The developers, who chose not to be on camera, want the plaintiffs to go to court and pursue justice and also add that, they too have legal documents to support the ownership of the plots.

  • Kimani Wa Makaratasi a Beacon of Hope for The Youths

    Kimani Wa Makaratasi a Beacon of Hope for youth is a humble and kind person. He does not boast of his achievements, he rather uses his God-given talents as leverage for other youths whilst inspiring them to achieve their potential.

    He is Kimani wa Makaratasi, the founder and Chief executive Office of Jamii Products, a fully-Kenyan born company dealing with recycling khaki paper and fabricating awesome products from the same.

    We caught up with this gentleman in his workshop and this is what he had to share with us:
    “My idea was born out of the Government’s Declaration of a “total Ban” on single-use plastics way back in 2017. The Government envisaged a cleaner environment and thereby imposed the ban, which triggered my imagination on a more climate-friendly mode of packaging. It’s then that I started making packaging bags out of khaki paper which is 100% biodegradable (meaning it does not pose a threat to our environment. Moreover, its also 100% recyclable, with nothing going to waste,” he noted.
    Our hawk-eyed crew noticed workers as busy as a bee pre-forming, casting and making very attractive packaging bags and gift packs, not to forget cake boxes. The workshop was a beehive of activities with the very humble CEO throwing an eye here and there to see that everything runs smoothly.

    “Currently Jamii Products Limited has employed twenty full-time staff who eke a living out of this business. Mostly youths, I am focused on delivering them from the voracious threat of drug, substance, and psychotropic substance abuse – which sometimes renders them zombies. I’m also very alive to our government’s commitment of the Bottom Up Economic Transformation agenda (BETA) which envisions to uplift and empower those on the bottommost tier of the pyramid,” he added.
    He is an Equal-Opportunity Provider
    The Constitution of Kenya (promulgated in 2010); Article 54 (A person with any disability is entitled;
    (a) to be treated with dignity and respect and to be addressed and referred to in a manner that is not demeaning;
    (b) to access educational institutions and facilities for persons with disabilities that are integrated into society to the extent compatible with the interests of the person;
    (c) to reasonable access to all places, public transport and information;
    (d) to use Sign language, Braille or other appropriate means of communication; and
    (e) to access materials and devices to overcome constraints arising from the person’s disability.
    stipulates that all Kenyans are entitled to the highest standards of living, including persons living with disabilities. Cognizant of this fact, Kimani wa Makaratasi offers them FREE TRAINING thereby empowering them with hands-on skills to be able to live a decent, independent life, thus dignifying them. Training classes take 7-10 days with a very affordable fee of Ksh 15,000 and one is open for all regardless of their education level and no age limits.
    Kimani wa Makaratasi also carries out Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) for prisoners country-wide.

  • Josiah Kariuki and John Ngugi rallying with Bang Bet

    Josiah Kariuki and John Ngugi rallying with Bang Bet

    As the WRC Safari Rally Kenya kicks off amidst a flurry of excitement and anticipation, all eyes are on the dynamic duo, Josiah Kariuki and John Ngugi, who are primed to make waves in this thrilling motorsport spectacle. Piloting the ex-Don Smith FIA Africa Rally Championship-winning car adorned in vibrant BangBet livery, Kariuki and Ngugi are set to embark on an exhilarating journey filled with twists, turns, and the promise of victory.

    Navigator John Ngugi, a second-generation driver with rallying in his blood, exudes confidence as he discusses their preparations for the rally. With meticulous attention to detail and the expertise of Don Smith’s seasoned mechanics servicing their car, Kariuki and Ngugi are poised for success. “We’ve left no stone unturned in our preparations. Recce went smoothly, and despite the Easter rains adding a touch of slipperiness to the stages, we’re ready to tackle the challenges head-on,” Ngugi affirms.

    Reflecting on past endeavors, Ngugi recalls their previous attempts at the Safari Rally with a mix of determination and optimism. Despite setbacks in previous years, including a minor hiccup during scrutineering, the duo remains undeterred, fueled by the unwavering support of their sponsor, BangBet. “Rallying demands resilience, and we’re grateful for BangBet’s steadfast backing. They’ve enabled us to pursue our passion and compete on the grand stage,” Ngugi acknowledges.

    For Kariuki and Ngugi, the Safari Rally represents more than just a competition; it’s a test of endurance, skill, and strategy. As they navigate the treacherous fesh-fesh speed tests, their focus remains on preserving the integrity of their car while pushing boundaries on the rugged terrain. “Driving sensibly is key to a successful Safari. We aim to strike the perfect balance between speed and caution, ensuring we cross the finish line with our heads held high,” Ngugi elaborates.

    Under the watchful gaze of technical delegate Musa Locho, the BangBet-sponsored car underwent rigorous scrutiny at the Wildlife Research & Training Institute in Naivasha, a testament to their commitment to adhering to the highest standards of safety and performance.

    For Ngugi, the legacy of rallying runs deep in his veins, as the son of the late John Ngugi Senior, a revered rally driver of the 1990s. Embracing his family’s heritage, Ngugi embarks on the Safari Rally with a sense of pride and purpose, carrying forward his father’s legacy with every twist of the wheel.

    As Ngugi navigates the challenging Naivasha course, he joins a cadre of second-generation drivers, each driven by a shared passion for motorsport and a desire to leave their mark on rallying history. Among them are Carl “Flash” Tundo, Hamza Anwar, and Oliver Solberg, a testament to the enduring legacy of rallying dynasties.

    For Ngugi, the journey from childhood dreams to professional racer has been a remarkable odyssey—one fueled by passion, perseverance, and the unwavering support of sponsors like BangBet. As he revs up for the Safari Rally, Ngugi embodies the spirit of a true champion, ready to conquer the track and inspire a new generation of motorsport enthusiasts

  • Expeditions Maasai Safaris is the best

    It’s easy to understand why Expeditions Maasai Safaris is the best, most preferred and fastest growing tour and travel company globally.

    Carefully and meticulously steered by the skilled hands of the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Mr Pancras Karema, Expeditions Maasai Safaris ensures all Kenyans can comfortably enjoy holiday.

    “Congratulations Baba Talisha. A fully paid all-inclusive 3-day holiday to Mombasa? for 3 people awaits you over Easter.

     

    Tukisema, tunatenda?. Help us welcome Baba Talisha. to the Expeditions Maasai Safaris family??.”

    Expeditions Maasai Safaris can be reached on 0783 999 999

  • Amref Launches Maternal and Newborn Health (MNH) Big Bet initiative

    During the Amref forum at Villa RosaKempinski Nairobi

    Amref Health Africa in Kenya has launched the Maternal and Newborn Health (MNH) Big Bet initiative, aptly named Sparking Change, Saving Lives – Quality Healthcare for Moms and Babies.

     

    This is a bold stride towards reducing the high rates of maternal and newborn mortality in Kenya and accelerating progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Commitments.

    The groundbreaking initiative was unveiled at a high-profile roundtable meeting held at Villa Rossa Kempinski, bringing together Governors from various counties, particularly those grappling with high maternal and newborn deaths.

    The Maternal and Newborn health Big Bet aims to forge new alliances to spearhead
    investment and execution of transformative strategies, with a resolute focus on
    enhancing the survival and well-being of expectant mothers and newborns in Kenyan
    counties. Investments are needed to achieve these ambitious targets. Furthermore, the
    initiative endeavors to enlist the support of Kenyan governors, particularly from regions
    burdened with high maternal and newborn deaths, to champion maternal health and
    accord it paramount importance within their jurisdictions. In this initial phase, we will collaborate with counties that face the greatest burden. They include – Tana River,
    Garissa, West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet, Machakos, Homabay, Siaya, Wajir, Kilifi,
    Murang’a, Makueni, Migori, and Turkana counties.

    Despite commendable strides in improving maternal and newborn health in Kenya,
    recent statistics from the Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (KDHS, 2022) on maternal mortality ratio currently stands at 355 per 100,000 live births and Neonatal mortality rate stands at 21 per 1000 live births. These figures are far from the from the SDG target of 70 per 100,000 live births and 12 per 1000 live births by 2030 respectively. Notably, 24 health facilities across the13 counties contribute significantly to the persistently high rates of maternal and neonatal deaths in Kenya (Kenya Health Information System).Under the Maternal and Newborn health Big Bet, Amref Health Africa has identified four
    pivotal game-changers aimed at addressing the high number of deaths, ensuring
    healthy pregnancies and safe deliveries in 60 referral health facilities across highburden counties. These game-changers include the establishment of High Response Maternity Units, strengthening response systems for neonatal emergencies,
    strengthening Primary Health Care, and strengthening accountability for every mother and newborn.

    “To achieve the set target, there is need for greater investments in maternal and
    newborn health by ecosystem players” said Dr Meshack Ndirangu, Country Director,
    Amref Health Africa in Kenya.

    Dr. Ndirangu also underscored the strategic alignment of these game-changers with
    Amref’s 2023-2030 strategic plan, which aims to transform the health of communities
    through Primary Health Care with a focus on women and young people. Furthermore, it aligns to the Kenyan Government’s commitment towards realization of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and commitments in Ending Preventable Maternal Mortalities and
    Every Newborn Action Plan.
    Speaking during the launch, H.E. Wisley Kipyegon Rotich, Governor, Elgeyo Marakwet County expressed optimism in achieving zero maternal mortality in Kenya and thanked Amref for the leadership. “We are grateful to Amref Health Africa for their support in driving us towards zero preventable maternal and child deaths. Drawing from the Ministry of Health’s insights, we, the governors and health committee, commit to support the MNH Big Bet Initiative and work towards zero maternal mortality rates in our counties,” he said.

    (more…)

  • Search For Common Ground Aims to Inspire Peace and Security

    Search For Common Ground has today held a Sensitization workshop that highlighted the need to address and end cases of insecurity in Lamu, Garissa and other places.

    The forum also saw the launch of a document addressing on encountering Violence Extremism.

    The auspacious occassion saw the attendance of Civil Society organisations, National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) and other Government Partners.

    “We are not trying to make people sign a piece of paper to stop fighting. Our goal is much broader. We want to transform conflict from violent to cooperative, to change the everyday interactions between people in conflict from destructive to constructive.
    Transforming conflict can be as simple as “reframing” a situation creating a new context in which people attack common problems, rather than each other. A win-lose, you-or-me mindset just perpetuates violence because it disregards the fact that the people involved still have to co-exist after someone wins.” Said Judy Kimamo Country Director Kenya, Somalia and Ethiopia.

    Various issues like extremism were also mentioned during the discussions where this normally means holding of extreme political or religious views or fanaticism. The issue of radicalization of Youth was also in debate.

    The Country Director further observed that, there is need to engage with the Counties and the police to end extremism and radicalization cases, With a slogan Kwa Pamoja Tuzuie Balaa.
    Empowering Community leaders and Government counterparts in inspiring peace and security in Lamu and Garissa.

    There is also need to sign peace deals, to make sure that we are stable, to make sure all parties are involved. Ending conflict in Lamu Garissa. Ending also acts of extremism.

    Social media has also been of help by using it to advocate for issues from various groups.
    Gender based violence is also tackled here.
    Issues of Personification, docking are tackled to ensure the space for women and children is safe . We have also done training with Meta and part of funding we receive from various donors like USA.

    Barriers towards information from affected areas have been successfully removed and
    Access to justice is all that is needed.

    Hon. Pascal Nabwana observed that, Alternative dispute solving mechanism do work well and where cases are prolonged in court in Lamu they have alternative dispute resolution where elders of Community solve minor cases in a Cultural way.
    One is able to have people resolve cases peacefully, the succes rate on this is very high. Examples of Peace making Initiatives were also showcased.

    Search For Common Ground are purposeful in creating a more diverse and inclusive culture at Search and knows that no one succeeds alone, so they embrace courageous engagement and collaboration and listen deeply to new ideas, welcoming multiple and fresh perspectives
    Our differences beliefs, values, and backgrounds lead to conflict. These disagreements are natural. It’s when we respond with anger, fear, or even hatred that we’ve started down a destructive path. But violence is not inevitable. Disagreements are opportunities to learn new perspectives. Conflict is a chance to work together and find a solution that addresses everyone’s needs.

  • Donkey Sanctuary Celebrates World water Day through women Empowering

    During the celebration of World water Day

    The Donkey Sanctuary Kenya celebrated the World water day by raising awareness of the profound impact of working donkeys on female empowerment in rural Kenya.

    In addition areas, where access to clean water is often a challenge, these resilient animals play a pivotal role in transforming communities. Globally, a staggering 200 million hours are reportedly lost by women and girls collecting water every day (UNICEF: NEW YORK/STOCKHOLM, 29 August 2016) (WaterAid, February, 22, 2024). In many parts of rural Kenya, women and girls are traditionally tasked with the arduous responsibility of fetching water, often walking long distances multiple times a day. This not only consumes a significant portion of their time but also limits their opportunities for education, work, and personal development. However, by recognising the value of working donkeys and improving their welfare, this narrative can begin to change.


    The Donkey Sanctuary Kenya is in the rural village of Nuu, Mwingi, where these hardworking animals are relied upon to transport water from distant sources to households, alleviating the burden on women, who would otherwise have to carry heavy loads over long distances.
    Donkeys’ strength and resilience make them well-suited for Nuu’s challenging arid terrains. Their contribution enhances water accessibility, improves overall community wellbeing, and fosters harmony between communities who unite around the fair and sustainable use of water –which ties in with this year’s theme Water for Peace’.

    The Donkey Sanctuary Kenya’s Country Director, Solomon Onyango, added ;“Access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene is a basic need for the health and wellbeing of both humans and donkeys. There are over 3,000 working donkeys in Nuu, many of whom make a daily round trip of up to 9km, carrying 80kg of water on their backs. However, like many of the country’s 1.2 million donkeys, their critical role is often overlooked, and their welfare is not prioritised.
    “We know when working donkeys are poorly fed, overworked or suffer illness and disease, they cannot achieve their productive potential and it is not only the donkey that suffers but the whole community.
    “Today we are providing free health checks and veterinary services for Nuu’s working donkeys, and offering advice to owners on how best to care for their donkeys, so these wonderful animals can continue to reduce the physical burden on women, enabling them to collect more water in less time, allowing for increased productivity in other aspects of their lives.”

    The Donkey Sanctuary is an international animal welfare charity dedicated to improving the lives of donkeys and mules worldwide. We provide lifelong care to over 7,000 donkeys in the UK and Europe, and reach many more globally through our international programmes and partnerships. Our colleagues are based all over the world and we work with a global network of partners, NGOs and governments, who share our vision of a world where every donkey has a good quality of life.
    The Donkey Sanctuary has been working in Kenya since 1987, where our mission remains to improve the welfare of donkeys and, in doing so, help safeguard the livelihood of millions of people who depend on donkeys for their everyday sustenance.

     

     

  • THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY OF THE INTER-UNIVERSITY COUNCIL FOR EAC- STUDENTS MOBILITY HOLDS SCHOLARSHIP CONSULTATIVE MEETING IN NAIROBI, KENYA

    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.