Hon. CPA Julius Rutto continues to distinguish himself as a visionary, accessible, and development-oriented leader whose unwavering commitment to empowering the people of Kesses is earning admiration across the country. His participation in the NYOTA Fund Second Tranche Disbursement at Eldoret Sports Club reflects his steadfast dedication to initiatives that create meaningful opportunities for young people and entrepreneurs.
A firm believer in inclusive economic growth, Hon. Julius Rutto has consistently championed programmes that empower youth with the resources, skills, and confidence needed to become successful entrepreneurs and job creators. His support for transformative initiatives demonstrates a deep understanding that investing in young people is the surest path to sustainable development and shared prosperity.
As a respected professional and accomplished CPA, Hon. Rutto brings integrity, accountability, and strategic thinking to public service. His leadership is marked by a practical approach to development, ensuring that national programmes translate into tangible benefits for ordinary wananchi. He continues to advocate for policies and investments that strengthen livelihoods, expand economic opportunities, and improve the quality of life for families across Kesses and beyond.
Hon. Julius Rutto’s unwavering support for the Government’s development agenda reflects his desire to see every young Kenyan realise their full potential. His collaborative leadership, humility, and commitment to service have made him a trusted voice for progress and an inspiring example of servant leadership.
As Kesses continues on its development journey, Hon. CPA Julius Rutto remains a dependable champion of empowerment, innovation, and inclusive growth. His dedication to uplifting communities, creating opportunities, and promoting sustainable development is shaping a brighter future for the constituency and reinforcing his reputation as a leader who delivers with purpose, vision, and commitment.
Mwea MP Hon. Mary Maingi continues to demonstrate exceptional leadership through her unwavering commitment to improving education and creating opportunities for every child. She firmly believes that investing in education is the most powerful investment a society can make, laying the foundation for a prosperous and empowered future.
Her dedication to supporting learners, strengthening schools, and encouraging parents to actively participate in their children’s education reflects her people-centered approach to leadership. By championing quality education, she is nurturing a generation equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to transform Mwea and Kenya at large.
Hon. Mary Maingi recognizes that today’s classrooms are home to tomorrow’s leaders, innovators, professionals, and entrepreneurs. Her consistent investment in educational initiatives demonstrates a clear vision of building a constituency where every child has the opportunity to succeed regardless of their background.
Through her compassionate leadership and steadfast commitment to the welfare of children, Hon. Mary Maingi continues to inspire hope, empower families, and shape a brighter future for Mwea. Her unwavering belief in the transformative power of education stands as a lasting testament to her dedication to service, progress, and the dreams of the next generation
Residents of Kihara Village in Ndaragwa Central Ward, Nyandarua County, have received a major boost following the commissioning of a new community borehole that is expected to provide reliable access to clean and safe water, ending years of hardship caused by persistent water shortages.
The strategic water project was officially commissioned by Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, accompanied by Water, Sanitation and Irrigation Cabinet Secretary Eric Mugaa, in a move that underscores the Government’s commitment to expanding access to essential services under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, CS Rebecca Miano described the project as a transformative investment that will significantly improve the quality of life for hundreds of households in the area.
Drawing from her own childhood experiences in the region, the Cabinet Secretary recalled the daily struggles residents endured in search of water, with women and children often forced to walk long distances carrying heavy jerrycans.
She noted that the newly commissioned borehole marks the end of that long-standing burden, bringing clean water closer to homes while restoring dignity, improving public health, and freeing up valuable time for education, farming, and other productive economic activities.
Miano said access to clean water remains one of the most important pillars of sustainable rural development, adding that reliable water supply not only improves household welfare but also strengthens food production, sanitation, and local enterprise.
She thanked President William Samoei Ruto for prioritising transformative grassroots development projects that directly improve the lives of ordinary Kenyans.
According to the Cabinet Secretary, the borehole is part of a broader national development strategy being implemented across Ndaragwa Constituency and other parts of the country. She noted that the National Government continues to invest heavily in infrastructure, water supply, agriculture, and other key sectors aimed at unlocking economic opportunities and improving livelihoods.
“The provision of clean water is more than a development project; it is an investment in people’s dignity, health and economic empowerment. By securing this basic necessity, we are creating the foundation upon which communities can prosper,” she said.
The commissioning reflects the Government’s continued efforts to expand access to clean water in underserved areas while accelerating implementation of development projects that support inclusive economic growth and improved living standards.
Residents welcomed the project, expressing optimism that the reliable water source will reduce the time spent searching for water, lower household costs, improve sanitation, and support farming and small businesses within the community.
The borehole adds to the growing list of Government initiatives aimed at improving service delivery and accelerating rural transformation as Kenya advances the implementation of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.
The National Construction Authority (NCA) has continued to reinforce its commitment to a safe, compliant and accountable construction industry through strategic collaboration with key institutions in the justice sector. In the latest demonstration of this commitment, the Authority paid a high-level courtesy call to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to deepen cooperation on enforcement, regulatory compliance and prosecution of construction-related offences.
The NCA delegation, led by Board Chairperson Ms. Mercy Okiro and Executive Director Eng. Maurice Akech, was received by the Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr. Renson Ingonga, CBS, OGW. The engagement underscored the growing recognition that effective regulation of Kenya’s construction industry requires strong institutional partnerships founded on accountability, professionalism and the rule of law.
The discussions focused on enhancing compliance within the construction sector, strengthening enforcement mechanisms and developing collaborative approaches to address emerging challenges affecting the industry. Among the key proposals were enhanced data sharing between the two institutions, joint capacity-building initiatives and the establishment of a Technical Working Group to coordinate implementation of agreed interventions.
At the centre of this renewed institutional partnership is the leadership of Eng. Maurice Akech, whose tenure as Executive Director of the National Construction Authority continues to be defined by strategic reforms aimed at strengthening regulation, enhancing professionalism and promoting sustainable development within Kenya’s construction sector.
A seasoned engineer with extensive experience in infrastructure development, policy implementation and institutional management, Eng. Akech has positioned the Authority as a proactive regulator that not only enforces standards but also works collaboratively with stakeholders to improve the overall quality and safety of Kenya’s built environment.
One of Eng. Akech’s defining leadership qualities is his appreciation that effective regulation extends beyond inspections and licensing. Under his stewardship, the NCA has increasingly embraced inter-agency collaboration as a critical pillar in safeguarding public interest. By building strong partnerships with institutions such as the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Authority is strengthening its capacity to ensure that violations of construction laws are investigated thoroughly and prosecuted effectively.
His leadership reflects a systems-based approach to governance, recognising that challenges such as illegal construction, non-compliance with building regulations, use of unqualified contractors and disregard for safety standards require coordinated action across multiple government agencies.
Eng. Akech has also championed the use of data-driven regulation. The proposed information-sharing framework between the NCA and the ODPP demonstrates his commitment to evidence-based enforcement, where regulatory decisions are supported by timely and accurate information. Such collaboration is expected to improve investigations, strengthen prosecution of offenders and enhance accountability across the construction value chain.
Another hallmark of his leadership is his unwavering focus on capacity development. Recognising that strong institutions are built through continuous learning, Eng. Akech has consistently promoted professional development for both NCA officers and industry practitioners. The proposed joint capacity-building programmes between the NCA and the ODPP reflect his belief that institutional excellence depends on equipping officers with the knowledge and skills required to respond effectively to evolving legal and technical challenges.
His engineering background has equally enabled him to appreciate the intricate relationship between quality assurance, public safety and sustainable infrastructure development. Under his guidance, the NCA has continued to strengthen inspection regimes, promote compliance with construction standards and advocate for the use of qualified professionals in all construction projects.
Eng. Akech’s strategic outlook aligns with Kenya’s broader infrastructure and economic transformation agenda. As the country continues to invest heavily in roads, housing, industrial parks, energy infrastructure and public facilities, the role of the NCA has become increasingly important in ensuring that development is undertaken in accordance with established engineering standards and legal requirements.
The collaboration with the ODPP therefore represents more than an institutional courtesy call. It reflects a shared commitment to promoting integrity, professionalism and accountability within one of the country’s most critical economic sectors.
The proposed Technical Working Group is expected to provide a structured platform for implementing joint initiatives, reviewing emerging trends, harmonising enforcement strategies and recommending policy improvements that strengthen regulatory effectiveness.
Through such partnerships, the NCA is not only enhancing compliance but also fostering greater public confidence in Kenya’s construction industry by ensuring that developers, contractors and professionals operate within the framework of the law.
As Executive Director, Eng. Maurice Akech continues to demonstrate the qualities of a transformational public sector leader—strategic thinking, collaborative leadership, technical competence, institutional innovation and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His emphasis on preventive regulation, stakeholder engagement and inter-agency cooperation is steadily positioning the National Construction Authority as a modern, responsive and credible regulator capable of supporting Kenya’s ambitious infrastructure development agenda while safeguarding public safety and promoting sustainable growth.
The presentation of the ISO 9001:2015 Certification to Rock Investment Bank is yet another shining testament to the transformative leadership of Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) Managing Director, Esther Ngari. Under her exceptional stewardship, KEBS continues to strengthen Kenya’s quality infrastructure by championing internationally recognized standards that enhance competitiveness, inspire innovation, and promote sustainable economic growth.
Esther Ngari has emerged as one of Kenya’s foremost champions of quality assurance, institutional excellence, and standards-driven development. Her visionary leadership has reinvigorated KEBS, positioning the institution as a trusted partner for businesses seeking to attain world-class operational excellence and global recognition.
The certification of Rock Investment Bank reflects KEBS’ unwavering commitment to cultivating a culture of quality, continuous improvement, and customer satisfaction across Kenya’s corporate landscape. Through Esther Ngari’s strategic direction, KEBS continues to empower organizations to embrace international best practices that enhance efficiency, strengthen governance, and unlock new opportunities in regional and global markets.
Her leadership is defined by professionalism, integrity, innovation, and an uncompromising pursuit of excellence. She has consistently demonstrated that standards are not merely regulatory requirements but powerful catalysts for industrial growth, investor confidence, consumer protection, and national competitiveness.
As Kenya accelerates its industrialization and economic transformation agenda, Esther Ngari remains a towering force behind the country’s journey toward world-class quality systems. Her dedication to institutional excellence continues to inspire confidence among manufacturers, service providers, investors, and consumers alike.
Congratulations to Rock Investment Bank on attaining the prestigious ISO 9001:2015 Certification. It is a remarkable milestone that reflects a firm commitment to quality and continuous improvement. Equally deserving of commendation is Esther Ngari, whose outstanding leadership continues to elevate KEBS as a beacon of excellence, ensuring that quality standards remain a cornerstone of Kenya’s sustainable development and global competitiveness.
Zimbabwean-born entrepreneur and investor Dr. Edd Branson has launched a new book titled “The Business of Art,” published by Edd Branson Publishers in a Swahili-language edition. The book is aimed at artists, creatives and entrepreneurs across Africa’s creative industries, teaching them how to turn raw talent into sustainable business.
Over the years, Dr. Branson has built a reputation as one of the most engaged investors in the development of creative industries across emerging markets. He has actively supported creative sectors in Eswatini, Zambia, the United States and Jamaica, backing initiatives designed to nurture artistic talent and strengthen value chains within those industries.
“Talent alone is not enough. Artists must understand the business of art,” Dr. Branson writes in the book. Dr. Branson is now turning his attention to Kenya and East Africa more broadly, a region he views as holding significant opportunity given the rapid growth of social media, mobile technology and digital payment platforms such as M-Pesa. Through his investment network, he has begun backing Kenyan companies and startups, with a focus on the creative, technology and financial services sectors.
Business analysts say Dr. Branson’s entry into Kenya could open the door for other international investors seeking opportunities in the East African market, particularly within the creative economy, a sector that has often been overlooked by traditional investors.
Dr. Branson is also known as a “nation builder,” a label earned through his long-standing work helping build economic systems that empower artists, entrepreneurs and communities to achieve lasting success rather than short-term wins.
“The Business of Art” is now available through Edd Branson Publishers, and is expected to become an important reference for artists and creatives looking to build their careers as genuine businesses, not just dreams.
OL KALOU, July 7, 2026 — The Government has intensified its push for universal access to clean cooking energy with the launch of the Gas Yetu Clean Cooking Programme in Nyandarua County, where 20,000 households are set to benefit from subsidised Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) starter kits.
The initiative was launched by Principal Secretary for the State Department of Petroleum, Kello Harsama, as part of the Government’s broader strategy to make clean, safe and affordable cooking energy accessible to more Kenyan households, particularly those in low-income communities.
Under the programme, beneficiaries will receive subsidised LPG starter kits comprising a pre-filled gas cylinder, burner and grill, significantly lowering the cost of transitioning from traditional cooking fuels to cleaner energy sources.
Speaking during the launch in Ol Kalou, PS Harsama said the programme is designed to accelerate the adoption of clean cooking technologies while improving the quality of life for households across the country.
He noted that increased use of LPG will help reduce exposure to harmful indoor air pollution, lower household cooking costs, reduce dependence on firewood and charcoal, and contribute to environmental conservation and Kenya’s climate action commitments.
The Principal Secretary also urged beneficiaries to observe safety precautions when handling LPG and to strictly adhere to usage and safety guidelines provided by the National Oil Corporation of Kenya (NOCK).
Nyandarua becomes the fifth county to benefit from the Gas Yetu Clean Cooking Programme after successful rollouts in Nairobi, Kajiado, Machakos and Kitui, underscoring the Government’s commitment to expanding clean energy access nationwide.
The launch was attended by Principal Secretary for Energy Alex Wachira, Senior Economic Advisor to the President Moses Kuria, Principal Secretary for the State Department for Blue Economy and Fisheries Betty Muthoni, and Acting National Oil Corporation of Kenya Chief Executive Officer Duncan Waziri.
The Gas Yetu Clean Cooking Programme forms part of the Government’s broader clean energy agenda aimed at increasing access to modern energy solutions, protecting public health, conserving forests and accelerating Kenya’s transition to a low-carbon economy.
BUSIA, July 7, 2026 — The Government’s Affordable Housing Programme continues to gather momentum, with the Funyula Affordable Housing Project in Busia County nearing completion as part of efforts to expand access to decent and affordable homes across the country.
The project, which is taking shape as a modern residential estate, has reached its final stages, with construction works completed and painting alongside other finishing touches currently underway on the residential blocks.
Principal Secretary for the State Department for Housing and Urban Development, Charles Hinga, CBS, CA(SA), has been at the forefront of the realization of the Government’s Affordable Housing Programme, spearheading the implementation of housing projects across the country under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
The Funyula development comprises a balanced mix of social and affordable housing units designed to cater to different housing needs and income groups, ensuring that more Kenyans can access quality, dignified and affordable homes.
Beyond the residential units, the estate is being complemented by key supporting infrastructure, including a reliable water supply system, secure perimeter fencing, paved internal roads, landscaped green spaces, children’s recreational areas and commercial facilities, creating a safe, functional and livable environment for future residents.
The Affordable Housing Programme is anchored on the belief that decent housing is more than shelter—it is a foundation for dignity, productivity and economic growth. By providing well-planned communities with modern amenities, the Government aims to improve the quality of life for citizens while creating jobs, stimulating local economies and supporting sustainable urban development.
Once completed, the Funyula Affordable Housing Project is expected to enhance home ownership opportunities in Busia County while contributing to the national goal of reducing Kenya’s housing deficit and fostering inclusive socio-economic growth.
Fortune Africa Magazine has recognised Zimbabwean businessman and philanthropist Wicknell Chivhayo as Africa’s leading philanthropist, citing what it describes as his transformative contribution to education, religion, community development, the creative economy and grassroots empowerment across the continent.
In a feature published by the magazine, the editorial team argues that Chivhayo has helped redefine African philanthropy by shifting the focus from traditional aid towards locally driven empowerment initiatives.
“In the ever-changing African development landscape, philanthropy is shifting from traditional aid to a localised, high-impact empowerment model. Zimbabwean entrepreneur Wicknell Chivhayo is at the forefront of this transformation. His consistent and extensive contributions have redefined private social investment on the continent.”
The publication further states that Chivhayo has committed an estimated US$500 million towards philanthropic initiatives, describing him as one of the most influential private benefactors on the African continent.
According to the magazine, education remains a cornerstone of his giving. His continued support for the Zion Christian Church (ZCC) and its educational institutions has strengthened academic infrastructure and expanded access to quality education, an approach the publication says directly advances the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal on Quality Education.
The feature also highlights his investments in religious infrastructure, community centres and social programmes, saying these projects strengthen communities while promoting social cohesion and resilience.
Beyond education and faith-based initiatives, Fortune Africa Magazine credits Chivhayo for becoming one of Africa’s most influential private supporters of the creative and sporting industries. His financial assistance to musicians, entertainers, football clubs and athletes has, according to the publication, created sustainable opportunities within sectors that often struggle to attract institutional investment.
The magazine also points to what it describes as Chivhayo’s unique approach to constituency development, noting that he has financed community projects initiated by Members of Parliament in several African countries as part of broader efforts to improve local infrastructure and public welfare.
Summing up its assessment, the publication wrote:
“By proving that philanthropy can be consistent and impactful across religious, socio-political and economic spheres, Chivhayo isn’t just donating; he’s investing in Africa’s future.”
Commenting on the recognition, Nick Branson, Managing Editor of Fortune Africa Magazine, said the decision followed extensive deliberations by both the editorial board and the magazine’s board.
According to Branson, the publication carefully assessed the scale, consistency and regional impact of Chivhayo’s philanthropic work before arriving at its conclusion.
“The editorial board and the Board of Fortune Africa carefully weighed Mr. Wicknell Chivhayo’s contributions over several years, looking not only at the value of the investments made but also at their measurable impact on communities in Zimbabwe and across the African region. We concluded that his work represents one of the most significant private philanthropic efforts currently taking place on the continent.”
Branson added that the recognition reflects both the breadth of Chivhayo’s interventions and the lasting influence they have had on education, religion, culture, community development and economic empowerment.
The magazine concludes that Chivhayo’s philosophy of giving, rooted in the African principle of Ubuntu, provides a modern blueprint for philanthropy by demonstrating how private capital can be mobilised to strengthen communities, support local institutions and contribute to Africa’s long-term development.
Meru County, 28 June 2026 – Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs Roseline Njogu has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to nurturing young talent by supporting learners participating in co-curricular activities, describing the creative arts as a key driver of personal growth and economic opportunity.
The Principal Secretary attended a fundraising ceremony in Meru County in support of students from Kinoru, Gikumene and Mwirene schools as they prepare to represent the region at the upcoming Regional Music and Drama Festival in Makueni County.
Addressing students, teachers, parents and community members, Roseline Njogu encouraged the learners to pursue excellence in both academics and co-curricular activities, urging them to use the competition as an opportunity to showcase their talents, creativity and discipline.
She emphasized that participation in music and drama helps young people develop confidence, communication skills, teamwork and leadership qualities while preserving Kenya’s rich cultural heritage.
The Principal Secretary further highlighted the Government of Kenya’s ongoing initiatives aimed at strengthening the creative economy, noting that the performing arts continue to create new opportunities for employment, innovation and entrepreneurship, especially among the youth.
She observed that investing in young artists is an investment in the country’s future, as the creative sector increasingly contributes to national development and economic growth.
Roseline Njogu commended the local community for coming together to support the students, describing collective efforts towards education and talent development as essential in empowering the next generation of leaders and innovators.
The fundraising event reflected the spirit of community partnership in ensuring that learners have the resources and encouragement needed to compete successfully while pursuing their artistic ambitions.
The students are expected to represent their schools at the Regional Music and Drama Festival in Makueni County, where they will showcase their talents alongside participants from across the region, carrying with them the support and goodwill of their community.
