Category: Uncategorized

By John Kariuki

Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary Roseline Njogu today hosted H.E. Damptey Bediako Asare, the outgoing High Commissioner of Ghana to Kenya, who paid a farewell courtesy call at the State Department for Diaspora Affairs in Nairobi.

The meeting provided an opportunity for reflection on the High Commissioner’s tenure, which has seen steady progress in nurturing the warm and historic ties that bind Kenya and Ghana. Both countries share a legacy of Pan-African leadership, dating back to the visionary statesmanship of Kwame Nkrumah and Jomo Kenyatta, and continue to collaborate in advancing continental aspirations for unity, prosperity, and self-reliance.

Discussions centered on strengthening bilateral and multilateral cooperation, with particular emphasis on diaspora engagement, an area where both nations see immense potential. The two leaders underscored the strategic importance of harnessing the skills, investments, and networks of the African diaspora to drive social and economic transformation across the continent.

PS Njogu and H.E. Asare also exchanged views on collaboration within the African Union, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and other international forums. They highlighted the need to deepen cooperation in trade, cultural exchange, education, and innovation, while advancing a shared vision for inclusive growth and sustainable development.

In her remarks, PS Njogu lauded H.E. Asare for his invaluable contribution to strengthening Kenya–Ghana relations during his service in Nairobi. She praised his commitment to building bridges of friendship and fostering partnerships that have brought tangible benefits to citizens of both countries. The PS further conveyed her best wishes to the High Commissioner in his future endeavors, expressing confidence that his legacy of service will continue to inspire closer ties between Kenya and Ghana.

The farewell call reaffirmed the enduring spirit of Pan-Africanism and the shared resolve of Kenya and Ghana to work in concert toward a stronger, more interconnected continent. It also highlighted the role of diplomacy and diaspora engagement as essential pillars in advancing regional cooperation and building a future of shared prosperity.

The United Nations has urged Kenya to scale up value addition in its coffee industry in order to boost farmers’ earnings, generate more export revenues, and create employment opportunities across the supply chain.

Speaking during a stakeholder forum on sustainable agro-industrial development held in Nairobi on Wednesday, Joel Imitira, Policy Support Specialist at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), said Kenya must shift from exporting raw coffee beans and invest in modern processing, branding, and marketing strategies.

“Kenyan coffee is internationally renowned for its high quality, yet farmers remain trapped in low-income cycles due to limited value addition,” Imitira said. “We encourage Kenya to prioritize investments in processing infrastructure, traceability systems, and direct market access to premium buyers abroad.”

Imitira noted that while Kenya produces less than one percent of the global coffee supply, its specialty-grade Arabica beans are highly sought after. He emphasized that unlocking the full potential of the sector hinges on integrating farmers into the value chain through cooperatives and public-private partnerships that can facilitate roasting, packaging, and retail both locally and internationally.

Tally Einav, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) Representative in Kenya, echoed similar sentiments, stressing that value addition aligns with Kenya’s broader industrialization goals under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).

“Coffee is not just an export commodity; it is an opportunity for industrial development,” said Einav. “UNIDO is working with Kenyan stakeholders to develop inclusive value chains that empower smallholder farmers, women, and youth, while also enhancing product competitiveness in global markets.”

She said that UNIDO has supported technical training and capacity-building initiatives in coffee-growing counties, aimed at enhancing quality control, branding, and certification. Einav also pointed to the need for improved access to financing and energy solutions to support agro-processing ventures in rural areas.

Data from Kenya’s Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) indicates that coffee exports contributed approximately 30 billion Kenyan shillings (about 230 million U.S. dollars) in 2023, with over 95 percent of the crop exported in raw form. Experts believe that with value addition, these earnings could significantly increase.

The call from the UN agencies comes as Kenya intensifies reforms in its coffee sector, including the recent restructuring of the Nairobi Coffee Exchange and implementation of new marketing regulations aimed at enhancing transparency and farmer returns.

Kenya’s Ministry of Agriculture has pledged to work closely with development partners and private investors to establish coffee processing hubs and expand market access, particularly in Asia, the Middle East, and North America.

“Value addition is the future of our coffee industry,” said a senior ministry official at the forum. “We welcome partnerships that will enable us to retain more value locally and uplift the livelihoods of our farmers.”

The three-day forum, attended by government officials, farmer cooperatives, researchers, and international partners, focused on strengthening agro-industrial linkages as a key pathway to economic transformation in Kenya and the wider East African region.

By John Kariuki

Dr Catherine Nyongesa, distinguished oncologist and visionary founder of the Texas Cancer Centre, continues to lead a resolute campaign against breast cancer, wielding awareness and early detection as her most potent weapons. With unwavering conviction, she underscores that knowledge and vigilance remain the bedrock of successful treatment and survival.

Drawing from global oncology standards, including directives from the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr Nyongesa asserts that the first and most formidable line of defence lies in heightened public consciousness. She implores individuals to become astute custodians of their own health, to heed even the subtlest physiological changes, and to seek professional evaluation without hesitation.

She identifies critical warning indicators that demand immediate medical attention including discernible alterations in the shape, alignment, or texture of the nipple, any atypical discharge especially if blood stained, the sudden emergence of a lump within the breast or underarm region, conspicuous changes in the skin’s hue or texture, and persistent unexplained pain in the breast or nipple area.

“Early diagnosis transforms the trajectory of breast cancer treatment,” Dr Nyongesa affirms, her voice carrying the authority of years of clinical expertise. She cautions against the paralyzing grip of fear, urging instead a culture of proactive health stewardship.

Beyond the clinic, Dr Nyongesa’s influence radiates through public sensitization forums, grassroots outreach, and patient empowerment programmes that dismantle stigma and replace silence with dialogue. Her mission is not solely to extend lives but to enhance their quality, ensuring that those affected face the disease armed with information, support, and hope.

In her crusade, Dr Nyongesa is redefining breast cancer advocacy in Kenya, transforming it from a whispered concern into a national health imperative. Her message is unequivocal: awareness is empowerment, and timely action is the lifeline. She calls on every Kenyan to embrace vigilance, normalise regular screenings, and act decisively at the first sign of irregularity.

Through her relentless dedication, Dr Nyongesa reminds the nation that the battle against breast cancer is winnable, but only if fought with courage, urgency, and unity.

Kabete Member of Parliament James Githua Wamacukuru has reaffirmed his commitment to transforming the constituency through targeted infrastructure development, with road upgrades taking center stage in his current agenda.

Two major projects are already making headway, promising to significantly improve mobility, accessibility, and economic activity for residents. In Kabete Ward, the King’eero KINTA Catholic King’eero Comprehensive School cabro access road is under active upgrade. This crucial link serves hundreds of students, parents, and businesses in the area, and its completion will not only enhance safety for pedestrians and motorists but also ease congestion, particularly during peak school hours.

Meanwhile, in Uthiru Ward, work is progressing steadily on the Gakobu St Joseph Arimathea ACK road. This upgrade will improve connectivity for a large residential population, enabling faster access to social amenities, markets, and places of worship. The project is expected to have far reaching benefits, stimulating local trade and improving service delivery.

MP Wamacukuru emphasized that these initiatives are part of a broader long term plan to modernize Kabete’s infrastructure. “Improved road networks are more than just a convenience. They are a driver of economic growth, a facilitator of safety, and a foundation for better livelihoods,” he noted.

He further stated that his office is keen on ensuring that development projects reflect the immediate needs of the people. To this end, he has engaged with community members, local leaders, and technical experts to prioritize roads that have the highest social and economic impact.

Beyond the current projects, MP Wamacukuru assured residents that more roads in other wards will soon undergo upgrades. His development strategy also aligns with improving drainage systems, street lighting, and road safety features, ensuring that infrastructure improvements are sustainable and meet modern standards.

As the projects advance, Kabete residents can look forward to more reliable transport routes, reduced vehicle wear and tear, and enhanced property values. The MP’s proactive approach has been widely welcomed, with many locals expressing optimism that his leadership will continue to deliver visible, lasting results.

Investment, Trade and Industry Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano has once again taken a moment to wish all fathers well. Fathers’ Day is observed today, the 16th of June worldwide. Hon CS Miano observes: “
“Fathers are our unsung heroes, a guiding light blessed by God, their dedication and love hold us together, making every sacrifice a gift. We celebrate you at the workplace and across the world.”
Fathers have a four-pronged role especially in the family setting – being a Priest, Provider, Protector, and Prophet,
As a Priest, the Father offers Spiritual guidance to his family and underscores the Centrality of God in their day-to-day work.
Secondly, as a Provider, all fathers go the extra mile to see to it that they sufficiently provide for their families, without failure.
As a protector, Father’s are always the first line of defence, protecting their family against aggression, attack or threat. This includes ensuring financial security, material security, welfare of all family members and ensuring all have a peace of mind.
And finally, as a Prophet, Fathers prophesy good tidings and speak Blessings to their family members. Not forgetting that Fathers offer crucial leadership and guidance and they are the Beacon of hope to their family members.
Indeed fathers are a very important pillar in any social setting. We wish all Fathers God’s blessings, favor, and protection. May they never lack

Hon Ekrah Ndung’u has once again taken a moment to wish all Fathers well. Fathers’ Day is observed today, the 16th of June worldwide. Hon. Dr. Ekrah observes:
“Fathers are our unsung heroes, a guiding light blessed by God, their dedication and love hold us together, making every sacrifice a gift. We celebrate you at the workplace and across the world.”
Fathers have a four-pronged role especially in the family setting – being a Priest, Provider, Protector and Prophet,
As a Priest, the Father offers Spiritual guidance to his family and underscores the Centrality of God in their day-to-day work.
Secondly, as a Provider, all Fathers go an extra mile to see to it that they sufficiently provide for their families, without failure.
As a protector, Father’s are always the first line of defence, protecting their family against aggression, attack or threat. This includes ensuring financial security, material security, welfare of all family members and ensuring all have a peace of mind.
And finally as a Prophet, Fathers prophesy good tidings and speak Blessings to their family members. Not forgetting that Fathers offer crucial leadership and guidance and they are the Beacon of hope to their family members.
Indeed father’s are a very important pillar in any social setting. We wish all Fathers God’s blessings, favour and protection. May they never lack

There’s something special in the style of leadership of the Honarable Cabinet Secretary in the Minsitry of Investments Trade and Industry the Hon. CS Rebecca Miano, EGH. Reason I’m saying this is because the Hon CS serves with a lot of dedication, diligence, strong-will and a softly-crafted people-centric service. She also has a heart of gold. Keen to deliver on President William Ruto’s ambitious plan of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation agenda, CS Rebecca Miano spares no ounce of energy in articulating the Ministry’s Strategic Plan whilst also working in synergy with line ministries in order to forge a common goal for a collective win.
The Honorable CS was voted the Best Public Service Leader of the Year on Friday evening. Humbled by the honorous gesture, the kind-hearted CS Miano noted,
“Humbled to receive the award for the Public Service Leader of the Year during the East Africa 2024 Women of Excellence Awards. Reminds me of how great each girl can be! Congrats to Kenya Governors’ Chair Anne Waiguru
and all the trailblazers for your well-deserved awards.”

Kenya Education Fund , County Director Mr. Francis Nganga

By Maximilla Wafula

Today , Kenya Education Fund (KEF) in a significant stride towards the barriers that keep millions of Kenyan children out of high school , Kenyan Education Fund (KEF) has delighted announced the enrollment of 161 new students into its life-changing scholarship program.

Speaking during the press interview County Director Kenya Education Fund Mr. Francis Ngang said that ” over 4,000 Kenyan Children have been supported by collective effort from different donors since 2001 and basically Kenya Education Fund (KEF) greatest area is in consolidating orphans and their well being in providing life skills workshops”.

For the past 19 years, Kenya Education Fund has been unwavering in its commitment to providing access to quality education for financially underprivileged youth, addressing the root causes of poverty, gender-based violence, and injustice. With 600 active students, the organization is taking a giant leap this January by extending full high school scholarships to a new cohort, covering four years of high school and one year of college bringing the total of active students to 761.
Each of the 161 students will receive comprehensive support to ensure their academic success and holistic development.

The scholarship package includes: School Tuition, Room & Board, Uniform & Shoes, Textbooks, Scientific Calculator, Sanitary Pads, Exam Fees and Participation in KEF Workshops.This scholarship goes beyond mere financial assistance; it is a beacon of hope for those who may otherwise be unable to pursue their education due to poverty, drought, lack of accessibility, or cultural practices. KEF successfully transitions 99% of it’s students from high school to university, which is actively breaking the cycle of poverty and fostering self-reliance.

“Education is not just a ticket to a better life for these students; it is a catalyst for positive change within their communities.” said Monsheila, a representative of KEF
Over the years, KEF has empowered over 4,000 students, the majority of whom are now self-reliant contributors to their communities.

The organization’s impact resonates in the success stories of individuals who have overcome adversity, turning dreams into reality through education.

As KEF continues to champion the cause of education for all, regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, or gender, the organization invites fellow Kenyans to join the work by supporting under privilleged children around them. Together, we can create a more inclusive and empowered society through the gift of education.
Ends….

Book Review by
Meresia Aloo.

In the vast landscape of political literature, there emerges a beacon of insight and wisdom that promises not only a deep dive into Kenya’s political history but also a profound call for unity and understanding. “The Political Canary of Kenya” authored by the seasoned Engineer Akech Ochungo, a distinguished senior lecturer at Multimedia University Of Kenya, presents a compelling narrative that transcends boundaries and beckons readers to embark on a journey of political enlightenment.
At the heart of this thought-provoking book lies a passionate exploration of the Joluo people and their political experiences from pre-independence to the present day. Engineer Akech Ochungo, through his rich narrative, invites us to reflect on the evolution of Kenya’s political landscape and encourages a collective shift towards political maturity.
This literary masterpiece, spanning 11 chapters, is not merely a historical account but a profound guide that seeks to foster a more compassionate and harmonious approach to our nation’s political discourse. As the author gently nudges us towards understanding the Joluo people, he simultaneously advocates for the appreciation and respect of every Kenyan community and individual, fostering a sense of unity in diversity.
What sets “The Political Canary of Kenya” apart is not just its exploration of historical events but its relevance to the current political climate. Engineer Akech Ochungo urges readers to contemplate the necessary steps for our nation to achieve the unity it desperately needs. Through a delicate balance of sensitivity and mindfulness, the book serves as a catalyst for transformative thinking, pushing us towards a future characterized by mutual understanding and collaboration.
To give you a taste of the profound insights within the pages of this book, we will be unraveling its contents through a series of engaging episodes across various digital media platforms. Join us as we provide a step-by-step overview of the invaluable knowledge and wisdom encapsulated in each chapter.
And what about the symbolism of the canary in this book? To discover its significance and delve deeper into the intricate layers of “The Political Canary of Kenya,” visit us at any Textbook Centre located near you. Don’t miss the opportunity to secure your copy and embark on a journey that promises to reshape your understanding of Kenya’s political tapestry.
For more enquiries on how to get the book , contact us via email at habarithach@gmail.com or booksprocurement@tbc.co.ke. Alternatively, call us at 07307350000 to reserve your copy. Trust us; you don’t want to miss the chance to own a piece of this literary gem. “The Political Canary of Kenya” awaits, inviting you to be a part of the dialogue that shapes the future of our great nation.