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Self-care is increasingly emerging as both a health and economic imperative in the quest to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC), according to Dr. Edward Serem, Head of the Division of Reproductive and Maternal Health.

Speaking during a plenary session on the Economic Case for Self-Care in Achieving UHC at the RHNK Pan-African Conference 2026, Dr. Serem highlighted the transformative role of self-care interventions in expanding access to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) services, strengthening health systems, and contributing to more sustainable and resilient healthcare financing.

The plenary brought together experts from government, civil society, development partners, and youth-led organizations to examine how self-care can help bridge healthcare access gaps while supporting national and global health goals.

Dr. Serem noted that self-care interventions are increasingly becoming an essential component of modern healthcare systems, particularly in resource-constrained settings where demand for services continues to grow. He emphasized that empowering individuals to take greater responsibility for their health can significantly reduce pressure on healthcare facilities while improving access to vital services.

“Self-care is not only about improving access to healthcare services; it is also about promoting autonomy, privacy, dignity, and informed decision-making, especially among young people,” said Dr. Serem.

He observed that self-care approaches have the potential to enhance healthcare outcomes by enabling individuals to access information, products, and services in a manner that is convenient, confidential, and responsive to their needs.

According to Dr. Serem, countries pursuing Universal Health Coverage must continue investing in self-care interventions as part of broader efforts to create people-centred, equitable, and resilient health systems. Such investments, he said, are critical in ensuring that healthcare remains accessible, affordable, and responsive to diverse population needs.

The discussions further underscored the importance of integrating self-care into national health strategies and policies, particularly in the area of reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health.

As healthcare systems continue to evolve, Dr. Serem reiterated the need for strong partnerships among governments, development partners, civil society organizations, healthcare providers, and communities to advance self-care initiatives and maximize their impact.

He emphasized that empowering individuals with the knowledge, tools, and resources to manage their health is not only a healthcare priority but also a strategic investment in stronger health systems and healthier populations.

The plenary concluded with a consensus that self-care must remain central to efforts aimed at accelerating progress towards Universal Health Coverage and ensuring that no one is left behind in accessing quality healthcare services.

The appointment of George Morara as the new Executive Director of Amnesty International Kenya has been welcomed with widespread praise from leaders, civil society actors and human rights defenders who have described him as an accomplished advocate with a strong commitment to justice, constitutionalism and the protection of human rights.

Morara takes over leadership of one of Kenya’s most influential human rights organizations at a time when the country continues to grapple with key governance, accountability and civic freedom concerns. His appointment is being viewed as a strategic step towards strengthening Amnesty International Kenya’s role in safeguarding democratic values, advancing human dignity and amplifying the voices of vulnerable communities across the country.

Stakeholders who welcomed his appointment noted that Morara brings with him extensive experience in governance, advocacy and public service, qualities they believe will be instrumental in steering the organization into a new era of impact and relevance within Kenya’s civic space.

In congratulatory messages following the announcement, leaders expressed confidence in Morara’s ability to build on the solid foundation established by outgoing Executive Director Irũngũ Houghton, whose tenure has been credited with expanding Amnesty International Kenya’s visibility and influence in matters relating to human rights advocacy, civic engagement and public accountability.

Observers have particularly pointed to Houghton’s leadership in strengthening civic participation, promoting constitutionalism and consistently speaking out against injustice as one of the defining chapters in the organization’s history. His stewardship, many say, elevated Amnesty International Kenya into a formidable voice within the country’s democratic and human rights landscape.

Morara’s appointment now signals the beginning of a new chapter for the organization, with expectations high that he will continue championing civil liberties, institutional accountability and social justice while navigating emerging challenges affecting governance and freedoms in Kenya.

Human rights defenders and governance experts have emphasized that the new Executive Director assumes office during a critical period when civic spaces across the region continue to face mounting pressure. They argue that strong and principled leadership within institutions such as Amnesty International Kenya remains essential in defending constitutional freedoms and protecting the rule of law.

Many who have worked with Morara in different capacities describe him as a thoughtful and courageous leader with a deep understanding of Kenya’s governance architecture and human rights environment. His ability to engage institutions constructively while remaining firm on matters of justice has earned him respect across both civil society and public leadership circles.

Leaders further noted that the rigorous and competitive search process undertaken to identify Amnesty Kenya’s new Executive Director demonstrates the organization’s commitment to continuity, institutional strength and visionary leadership. According to those familiar with the process, Morara emerged as a suitable candidate capable of guiding the organization through evolving social, political and governance realities.

As he prepares to assume office, Morara has been urged to continue strengthening partnerships between civil society organizations, communities and institutions in pursuit of justice, equality and accountability. Stakeholders also expressed optimism that his tenure will inspire renewed public confidence in human rights advocacy and civic engagement.

His appointment has also reignited conversations around the important role civil society organizations continue to play in defending democratic ideals and promoting inclusive governance in Kenya. Analysts argue that institutions such as Amnesty International Kenya remain critical pillars in protecting freedoms of expression, association and peaceful assembly while ensuring that public institutions remain accountable to citizens.

With expectations high, many Kenyans are now looking forward to Morara’s leadership and vision as he takes charge of one of the country’s most respected human rights organizations. Supporters say they remain hopeful that under his stewardship, Amnesty International Kenya will continue expanding its influence and deepening its contribution towards building a just, democratic and rights-based society.

As congratulations continue to pour in, Morara begins his new role carrying the hopes of many who believe his leadership will help strengthen justice, inspire hope and leave a lasting positive impact on Kenya’s human rights landscape.

The National Chairman of the UDA Wanabiashara Caucus, Francis Mbogo, has firmly stated that the Deputy President’s seat is not up for political bargaining.

Addressing the press alongside members of Warembo na Fire, Mr. Mbogo dismissed ongoing political maneuvers by the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and its affiliate parties, asserting that their push will not alter the current political reality.

“The Deputy President’s position remains firmly held and is not available for negotiation,” he declared.

Mr. Mbogo reaffirmed that the incumbent Deputy President, Kithure Kindiki, is the bona fide holder of the office and continues to enjoy strong support.

He emphasized that the UDA Wanabiashara Caucus, Warembo na Fire and like-minded stakeholders remain united and focused on safeguarding stability, enterprise growth and national development.

“The focus must remain on service delivery, empowering businesses and strengthening the economy — not premature political distractions,” he added.

The caucus maintained that it will continue mobilizing its members countrywide to protect its political interests while championing unity and economic transformation.

By Judith Mwai

Nairobi, Kenya – Prime Cabinet Secretary Dr. Musalia Mudavadi has reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with Egypt, emphasizing the importance of mutual cooperation in promoting regional stability and economic growth.

During a meeting with Egyptian Foreign Minister Dr. Badr Abdelatty, Mudavadi highlighted the historic ties between the two nations, citing their shared African heritage and commitment to regional progress. The two leaders discussed ways to deepen economic cooperation, including the establishment of a Kenya-Egypt Joint Business Council and the streamlining of trade facilitation processes.

The talks also focused on water security and the Nile Basin, with Kenya reaffirming its principled position that no party should be left worse off in the utilization of shared water resources. Mudavadi emphasized the need for African-led, inclusive, and dialogue-based approaches to managing the Nile Basin, and Egypt’s role in promoting peace and security in the region.

The meeting underscored Kenya’s commitment to advancing its strategic partnership with Egypt, with Mudavadi expressing optimism about the potential for growth and development in the region. The two nations are set to hold a Mid-Term Review to assess progress and refine their strategic priorities, with Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi expected to visit Kenya later this year.

Nairobi, Kenya – As the nation navigates a heightened political season, GuardNow Security Group has issued a public advisory calling for increased vigilance in religious spaces. The advisory, signed by Chief Executive Officer Dr. Peter Mwangi, emphasizes the need to safeguard worshippers and clergy during this sensitive period.

Dr. Mwangi, who is also a United Nations Peace Ambassador, who has been recognized for his commitment to harmony and peace. He is a recipient of the Human Harmony Award from the United Nations and the Visionary Peace Award from the International Peace Studies Institute. His leadership in both security and peace advocacy underscores the importance of protecting sacred spaces during times of political tension.

“Religious spaces are sacred and must remain safe havens for prayer, reflection, and community,” Dr. Mwangi said in the statement.

The advisory highlights several precautionary measures:

• Worshippers should remain alert to suspicious behavior, unattended packages, or unusual activity.
• Religious institutions are encouraged to establish controlled entry and exit points, with ushers or volunteers assisting in monitoring movement.
• Congregations should be familiar with evacuation routes and emergency contacts.
• Leaders are urged to maintain open communication with local law enforcement and security agencies for rapid response.
• Worship spaces should remain neutral zones, discouraging political campaigning or debates that could escalate tensions.

Dr. Mwangi further stressed the importance of community vigilance, urging congregants plus kenyans in general to look out for one another and report concerns immediately. “By remaining vigilant and cooperative, we can ensure that our places of worship continue to be sanctuaries of hope and resilience,” he added.

GuardNow Security Group reaffirmed its commitment to supporting communities during this period, calling for unity, peace, and responsibility from both leaders and worshippers.

Nairobi — The Medium Liquor Traders Association (MELTA) has welcomed the launch of LiquorPay, Nairobi City County’s fully automated digital liquor licensing platform, calling it a long-overdue reform that will improve efficiency, transparency, and fairness in the sector.

Speaking on behalf of the association, MELTA Chairman Mr. Frank Mbogo congratulated Governor Johnson Sakaja and the county leadership for implementing a system that traders have advocated for over the past two years.

“The introduction of LiquorPay is a progressive move that addresses long-standing challenges such as bureaucracy, delays, and opaque procedures in liquor licensing,” Mr. Mbogo said. He noted that the fully automated system—covering application, inspection, payment, and approval—will save traders time and improve confidence in county processes.

Mr. Mbogo aligned MELTA’s sentiments with those of county officials, praising County Executive Dr. Anastasia Nyalita and her team for prioritising traders and simplifying access to government services through technology.

While welcoming the platform, MELTA cautioned that its success depends on faithful implementation. “We hope this system will not be sabotaged by vested interests or compromised by a return to old practices. Traders expect integrity, consistency, and fairness in its application,” Mr. Mbogo said.

Ends

East Africa 24 names David Munowenyu as Africa’s Fastest Rising Entrepreneur of 2026 recognizing the continent’s most influential business leaders driving transformative change across African markets.

David Munowenyu is a humble entrepreneur who holds quiet influence and soft power across the African Continent. Munowenyu has rubbed shoulders with some of Africa’s historic political , business and social leaders. Munowenyu puts in the work without cameras and media letting his results speak for themselves.

Born and raised in Zimbabwe’s Manicaland Province which borders Zimbabwe and Mozambique , Munowenyu has built a multi-million dollar empire spanning energy, healthcare, and international logistics. What sets Munowenyu apart isn’t just the scale of his ventures it’s his systematic approach to building profitable enterprises that simultaneously advance Africa’s development agenda.

The Munowenyu Portfolio:

Miraco Energy| Executive Chairman
Combating energy poverty across the continent by delivering clean, affordable power to industries, mines, homes, and hospitals. Munowenyu’s energy play positions him at the intersection of Africa’s infrastructure deficit and its clean energy transition—a multi-billion dollar opportunity.

Discovery Ambulance Services | Founder & CEO
Zimbabwe’s premier emergency medical provider and strategic partner in the Presidential Emergency Medical Scheme. Discovery has become the first responder of choice, tackling maternal mortality and road traffic deaths while building a scalable model for emergency healthcare across underserved markets.

Strantview Distributors | CEO
U.S.-based international logistics operation demonstrating Munowenyu’s ability to navigate cross-continental markets and complex global supply chains.

The Munowenyu Philosophy

“As Africans, we owe it to ourselves to build and grow our countries and continent by investing in projects that serve and strengthen our communities,” says Munowenyu, articulating a business philosophy that rejects the false choice between profit and purpose.

His approach: identify critical market gaps where commercial opportunity and social impact converge, then build scalable solutions.

His Impact Model

When maternal emergencies strike in Zimbabwe’s rural areas, Discovery Ambulance Services responds. Every saved life represents both social impact and proof of concept for Munowenyu’s thesis: world-class services can be profitably delivered in emerging markets when properly structured.

The numbers validate his approach. Discovery addresses multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals through a single business model—maternal health, road safety, economic growth—while generating revenue and creating employment in line with the popularised 2030 Agenda.

Strategic Philanthropy

The David Munowenyu Foundation, co-led with his wife Chantelle, operates as a strategic complement to his business ventures. Over 500 students receiving school uniforms, 50 full scholarships awarded, nutrition programs in underserved communities—the Foundation’s work creates downstream markets and workforce development for Munowenyu’s enterprises.

The Chicken Diet Supplementary Programme at Victoria Chitepo Hospital exemplifies this integrated approach: monthly provisions worth over $1,000 support the 250-bed facility while creating sustainable income for small-scale farmers who supply the program. Private capital strengthening public infrastructure.

Munowenyu’s ability to navigate complex institutional relationships sets him apart. His portfolio includes partnerships with presidential medical schemes, Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services, and multiple public sector agencies—demonstrating fluency in the public-private dynamics essential for doing business in African markets.

A self-described “Pan African Global Citizen” and devout Christian, Munowenyu explicitly frames his work within the African Union’s Agenda 2063, positioning himself as both business leader and continental development stakeholder.

Why He Matters Now

Africa’s $3 trillion economy and rising population makes the continent an ideal investment and business destination. Munowenyu therefore becomes a name that matters in the conversation. Munowenyu has a reach in Eswatini , Zambia , Tanzania , Zimbabwe , Ethiopia among several other nations in Africa and across the globe positioning him as one of Africa’s most influential entrepreneurs.

Munowenyu seeks to help achieve Africa’s ambitious development targets while creating employment for the world’s youngest population. Munowenyu is the impact-oriented entrepreneur building businesses at scale.

Outside of the Corporate world and boardroom business Munowenyu has an anti-drug programs and education initiatives (rooted in his own journey from Mutanda Primary School to Mutare Boys’ High School) reflect strategic thinking about long-term human capital development—the foundation of sustainable economic growth.

Munowenyu champions what he calls “African indigenous philanthropy”—successful Africans systematically reinvesting in continental development. It’s a model gaining traction as Africa’s private sector increasingly drives development outcomes traditionally left to governments and NGOs.

Whether negotiating energy contracts, deploying ambulances to save lives, or managing international supply chains, David Munowenyu is building the template for 21st-century African entrepreneurship: commercially excellent, socially transformative, and unapologetically Pan-African.

For investors, development partners, and policymakers seeking authentic engagement with Africa’s emerging business elite, Munowenyu offers something increasingly rare—proven execution across multiple sectors, genuine community roots, and strategic vision aligned with the continent’s development trajectory.

Hon. Dr. Faith Mwaura has officially joined the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and declared her candidacy for the Roysambu Parliamentary seat in the upcoming general election.

Speaking after her formal declaration, Dr. Mwaura said her decision followed careful consideration and reflection on the future of Roysambu and the country at large. She noted that UDA’s vision, values, and development-focused agenda closely align with her commitment to inclusive growth, accountable leadership, and people-centred governance.

“Roysambu deserves transformative leadership that listens, delivers, and places the needs of the people first. I am confident that UDA provides the right platform to advance meaningful development and create opportunities for all residents,” Dr. Mwaura said.

She pledged to prioritise key areas including youth empowerment, job creation, quality healthcare, education, affordable housing, and improved infrastructure, while working closely with residents and stakeholders to address the constituency’s challenges.

Dr. Mwaura called on the people of Roysambu to unite behind a shared vision of progress, transparency, and sustainable development, emphasizing that leadership must be rooted in service and results.

With her declaration, Dr. Mwaura joins the race as one of the early contenders for the Roysambu seat, positioning herself as a strong advocate for change and effective representation.

PS Kilemi Opens Second Cohort of Annual Delegates Congress in Mombasa**

The Principal Secretary in the State Department of Co-operatives, Mr Patrick Kilemi, on Monday officially opened the second cohort of the Annual Delegates Congress in Mombasa, as leaders in the co-operative sector intensified efforts to strengthen governance and leadership.

Mr Kilemi was received by the National Chairman of the Kenya National Police DT Sacco, Mr David Sohelo Mategwa, the Nairobi County Director of Co-operatives Ms Dolphine Aremo, members of the board, and Chief Executive Officer Mr Solomon Angutsa.

Speaking at the event, Mr Mategwa said strong leadership, teamwork and accountability were critical to the sustainability of co-operative societies, noting that the Annual Delegates Congress plays a key role in preparing leaders to safeguard members’ interests and promote long-term value creation.

He added that the Kenya National Police DT Sacco remained committed to upholding sound governance and empowering delegates with skills needed to enhance transparency and operational efficiency.

The congress, being held under the theme “Empowering Leaders through Teamwork and Co-operative Excellence,” brings together delegates from across the country and focuses on leadership development, accountability and sustainable growth within the co-operative movement.

Proceedings of the second cohort continue in Mombasa.