In the vast landscape of Kenya’s public service, few leaders have demonstrated the rare combination of vision, energy, humility and grassroots connection embodied by Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary Ms. Roseline K Njogu.

PS Njogu has steadily emerged as a formidable champion of citizen-centred governance, transforming the Diaspora Affairs docket from an office often perceived as distant from ordinary Kenyans into a responsive platform that reaches citizens where they live, work and dream.

Through the Diaspora Mashinani initiative, she is taking government beyond conference rooms and official corridors and placing it directly in the hands of communities.

Her recent engagement in Kiirua, Meru County, offered yet another powerful demonstration of this exceptional leadership philosophy.

Rather than treating development as a conversation reserved for Nairobi or the corridors of power, PS Njogu brought the conversation to the village — meeting residents, listening to their concerns and explaining Government programmes designed to improve their daily lives.

That is the mark of a leader who understands that the true measure of public service is not how grand an office looks, but how far its impact reaches.

In Kiirua, PS Njogu outlined a range of Government initiatives, including the Social Health Authority, affordable housing programmes, water projects and other social interventions aimed at improving livelihoods.

Her message was both practical and empowering: Government programmes have meaning only when citizens understand them, access them and ultimately feel their impact.

PS Njogu’s leadership is particularly striking because she does not merely announce programmes; she walks the ground to understand how they are taking shape.

Her inspection of the electricity project in Kiirua demonstrated this hands-on approach. The project is expected to transform the lives of hundreds of families by improving access to reliable electricity while opening doors to new economic opportunities.

For young people and women, electricity can mean more than light in the home. It can mean a business that can operate longer, a workshop that can acquire modern equipment, a digital enterprise that can thrive and a community whose economic potential is finally unlocked.

PS Njogu’s decision to personally inspect the project underscores her determination to connect Government policy with tangible outcomes.

She also inspected ongoing water projects, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to reliable access to clean water and essential services.

Again, the significance goes beyond infrastructure.

Water touches health, education, household productivity, agriculture and livelihoods. By placing such projects within the wider development conversation, PS Njogu demonstrates an impressive understanding of how seemingly individual interventions combine to transform entire communities.

But perhaps one of the most compelling aspects of her Kiirua engagement was her focus on Kazi Majuu.

Rather than allowing opportunities in the global labour market to remain the preserve of those with privileged access to information, PS Njogu took the message directly to residents.

She sensitised the community on opportunities within the global diaspora workforce and provided guidance on what prospective applicants should look out for when seeking overseas employment.

This is where PS Njogu’s leadership acquires a truly transformative dimension.

She is not merely telling Kenyans that opportunities exist; she is helping them understand how to identify legitimate opportunities, prepare themselves and participate in an increasingly interconnected global economy.

by Fred Maingi

The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) has called on Kenyans to reject politically instigated violence, demand accountability from leaders, and actively prepare for peaceful, free, fair, and credible elections in 2027.

Speaking after a two-day Executive Committee meeting in Limuru, NCCK said the country is grappling with a worsening moral, governance and socio-economic crisis marked by corruption, impunity, human rights violations, weakened institutions and early political campaigns.

The council, led by Chairman Rev. Dr. Elias Otieno Agola and General Secretary Rev. Canon Chris Kinyanjui, condemned politicians accused of mobilising unemployed youth to disrupt public meetings and engage in violence, describing the practice as unethical and inconsistent with Christian values.

NCCK also raised concern over what it described as growing links between criminal gangs and some security officers, urging the Inspector General of Police to ensure those funding, organising or inciting violence are investigated and prosecuted.

The church appealed to young people to resist being used to perpetrate political violence and criminal acts, citing the recent attack on All Saints Cathedral as evidence of increasing disregard for places of worship.

On the economy, the council said many households continue to struggle with the high cost of living, blaming excessive taxation, rising unemployment and an unfavourable business environment for eroding purchasing power.

It warned that widespread poverty was being exploited by politicians to influence voters through cash handouts and gifts, urging Kenyans to safeguard their democratic rights.

“Your vote is your birthright. Do not sell it for temporary tokens,” the council said.

NCCK further urged citizens to demand transparency and accountability from both elected and appointed public officials, saying corruption continues to erode public trust, undermine national values and hinder economic growth.

The council also encouraged Kenyans to reject bribery in all its forms and support integrity and ethical leadership in public service.

With political campaigns expected to gather momentum ahead of the 2027 General Election, the church advised voters to assess candidates based on their integrity, character and record of service rather than campaign rhetoric, noting that informed leadership choices begin long before election day.

NCCK welcomed the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission’s release of the 2027 election calendar, describing it as a significant step in preparations for the polls.

However, it challenged the electoral commission to restore public confidence, saying concerns over transparency have contributed to low trust in its ability to deliver free, fair and credible elections.

The council also criticised the state of public service delivery, citing poor roads, inadequate drainage systems, neglected public infrastructure and challenges affecting the Social Health Authority (SHA) and the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).

It said many Kenyans continue to face difficulties accessing affordable healthcare despite government assurances that the new health financing system is functioning effectively.

NCCK urged citizens to speak out against injustice and continue holding leaders to account, saying public participation and accountability are critical to building a just, peaceful and prosperous Kenya.

The recognition of Roseline Kathure Njogu, CBS, as the 5th best woman in leadership by the Kenya Track Survey is not just a personal accolade—it is a powerful affirmation of purposeful leadership, visionary service, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting the lives of Kenyans across the globe. In a time when leadership is constantly tested by complexity and shifting expectations, her distinction stands tall as a reflection of substance over spectacle, and impact over noise.

As Principal Secretary in the State Department of Diaspora Affairs, Roseline Kathure Njogu, CBS, has reimagined the place of Kenyans living abroad within the national conversation. She has transformed diaspora engagement from a peripheral concern into a central pillar of

Kenya’s development agenda. Under her stewardship, the diaspora is no longer viewed merely as a source of remittances, but as a dynamic force rich with knowledge, innovation, and global networks that can propel the country forward.

Her leadership has been marked by intentionality and clarity of purpose. She understands that meaningful engagement requires more than policy—it demands connection. Through consistent outreach, structured dialogue, and strategic frameworks, she has fostered a renewed sense of belonging among Kenyans abroad. Her work ensures that distance does not dilute identity, and that every Kenyan, regardless of location, remains an active participant in shaping the nation’s future.

What truly distinguishes Roseline Kathure Njogu, CBS, is her human-centered approach to leadership. She leads with both intellect and empathy, balancing strategic direction with genuine concern for people. Her interactions with diaspora communities are not ceremonial—they are thoughtful, solution-oriented engagements that reflect a deep understanding of their realities. In doing so, she has built trust, strengthened relationships, and elevated the credibility of her office.

Her recognition among Kenya’s top women leaders also highlights her role as a pathfinder in public service. She embodies a leadership style that is both firm and inclusive, demonstrating that strength and compassion are not mutually exclusive. In spaces where women continue to navigate systemic challenges, she has not only excelled but also expanded opportunities for others to rise. Her presence is both a statement and a source of inspiration.

There is a deliberate calm in her leadership—a quiet confidence that does not seek validation through theatrics, but through results. From strengthening diaspora policy frameworks to enhancing institutional coordination, her impact is visible, measurable, and enduring. She represents a model of leadership where consistency, discipline, and vision converge to produce real transformation.

Beyond her official role, Roseline Kathure Njogu, CBS, stands as a beacon of possibility for young women and aspiring leaders across Kenya. Her journey affirms that leadership is not defined by loud declarations, but by sustained action and unwavering commitment to service. She inspires a generation to pursue excellence with purpose, and to lead with both courage and integrity.

Her portfolio sits at a unique intersection of diplomacy, economic development, and social cohesion—an area that demands both technical expertise and emotional intelligence. She has demonstrated an exceptional ability to navigate this space, strengthening Kenya’s global presence while ensuring that its citizens abroad remain seen, heard, and valued. Her work has turned diaspora affairs into a powerful tool for national unity and international engagement.

Those who work with her often speak of her balanced leadership style—approachable yet decisive, consultative yet firm. She listens with intent and acts with conviction. This rare combination has enabled her to build consensus while driving progress, ensuring that initiatives are not only inclusive but also effective.

Being ranked 5th best woman in leadership is a recognition earned through tangible results and sustained excellence. It places her among a distinguished cadre of women who are shaping Kenya’s future through dedication, innovation, and service. Yet, beyond the ranking, it is the substance of her work that truly defines her legacy.

In celebrating Roseline Kathure Njogu, CBS, we are celebrating a vision of leadership that transcends borders and redefines connection. Her work continues to unite Kenyans across continents, fostering a shared sense of purpose and pride. She is not merely leading a department—she is building bridges, strengthening identities, and shaping a more inclusive and globally engaged Kenya.

Her journey is far from complete, but it already carries the imprint of greatness—a legacy grounded in service, driven by vision, and sustained by an unwavering commitment to the people she serves.

BEIJING, April 14 (Xinhua) — In late March, the relatively unknown Chinese motorcycle maker ZXMOTO clinched back-to-back titles in the World Supersport category at the Portuguese round of the Superbike World Championship, breaking a decades-long monopoly held by established global brands.

Hailed by international media as a testament to China’s manufacturing strength and comprehensive local supply chain, the victory highlights a larger reality: as global economic turbulence intensifies, China’s manufacturing sector is proving its resilience and capacity for high-quality growth.

FROM BIG TO STRONG

Having maintained its position as the world’s largest manufacturing hub for 16 consecutive years, China has fortified its key industrial and supply chains to become more resilient, providing strong support for weathering major risks.

The country’s 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) has made moving faster to boost its strength in manufacturing a central task, calling for maintaining a reasonable share of manufacturing in the economy and building a modern industrial system led by advanced manufacturing.

According to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, during the 2026-2030 period, the country will shore up weak links, strengthen competitive edges and seize early-mover advantages, with the goal of moving from key breakthroughs to all-round advantages.

Xin Yongfei, an expert with the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology, noted that China’s manufacturing sector already has the scale and innovation foundation.

During the 15th Five-Year Plan period, he said, maintaining strategic focus and concentrating on crucial areas will allow China to leap from “following” to “running alongside” and even “leading,” laying a solid foundation for basically achieving new industrialization.

Local governments have also rolled out concrete plans: Hunan Province in central China will implement landmark projects for an advanced manufacturing highland, Shanghai in east China aims to build the “Made in Shanghai” brand, and southwest China’s Chongqing Municipality is pushing to become a strong manufacturing city.

CORE-RESHAPING INNOVATION

In Beijing’s Yizhuang District, also known as E-town, humanoid robots can be seen training for a half-marathon. Many of them can now run at speeds of up to six meters per second, rivaling the pace of professional athletes.

This leap mirrors a broader push toward higher-end, smarter and greener manufacturing. The 15th Five-Year Plan outlines a series of concrete steps: improving manufacturing quality, boosting the resilience of industrial and supply chains, and achieving breakthroughs in core technologies.

One telling example is the recent release of China’s domestically developed T1200-grade ultra-high-strength carbon fiber, now the strongest industrially produced carbon fiber in the world.

“Thanks to this technological breakthrough, our domestically produced large aircraft will be lighter, deep-space exploration can go farther, and new energy vehicles will have longer range. It provides a stronger ‘skeleton’ for future industries,” said Chen Qiufei, the R&D lead.

Meanwhile, companies are shifting from selling hardware to offering integrated solutions. DJI, known for its drones, now provides agricultural plant protection solutions, with related service revenue accounting for more than 30 percent of its total.

Similarly, Chinese battery maker Sunwoda has built a six-dimensional maglev production line and a digital twin system to improve its own manufacturing efficiency, and is now exporting smart manufacturing solutions to others.

The results are visible in the data. In the first two months of 2026, the value-added output of high-tech manufacturing enterprises grew 13.1 percent year on year, while that of equipment manufacturing rose 9.3 percent.

The “AI plus manufacturing” initiative has been implemented, with the adoption rate of AI technology among major manufacturing firms exceeding 30 percent. Meanwhile, more than 8,300 green factories have been established nationwide.

MORE OPEN LANDSCAPE

At the same time, China’s manufacturing sector is opening up further. In Zhanjiang, south China’s Guangdong Province, German chemicals giant BASF’s massive production complex, known as a Verbund site, has started production, marking the largest single investment project wholly owned by a German enterprise in China.

Thousands of miles away in Tatabanya, Hungary, Chinese heavy machinery manufacturer Zoomlion’s first European smart factory has opened, providing a stable and efficient product supply and better localized services for European customers.

All foreign investment restrictions in the manufacturing sector have been lifted in China. In the first two months of this year, China’s exports of high-tech and high-value-added mechanical and electrical products reached 2.89 trillion yuan (about 418.9 billion U.S. dollars), up 24.3 percent year on year.

As China navigates an increasingly volatile world, its manufacturing sector is actively integrating into global markets, offering vast cooperation opportunities for the world.  ■