Category: Uncategorized

Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla led Eswatini’s first Disability Arts Festival on September 27, breaking new ground by placing government leadership at the centre of disability inclusion.
“This occasion is more than a festival; it is a testament to courage, creativity, and the undeniable truth that disability is not inability,” said Dladla during her opening remarks.
The festival gathered artists with disabilities, caregivers, sign-language interpreters, and musicians in a day of performance, poetry, and song.
Performers including young women Charity and Nothando were recognized, underscoring the impact of creating spaces where people with disabilities can showcase their talent.
Edd Branson Publishers, a partner in the event, announced plans to mentor and promote some of the performers internationally.
Talks are also underway with Kenyan and East African musicians to produce a collaborative album rooted in the African philosophy of Ubuntu, which stresses collective success.
Advocates in Kenya observed that Eswatini’s approach offers a model. “Her Excellency Dladla has shown that leadership matters,” said a Nairobi-based disability-rights advocate.
“By combining policy, resources, and personal engagement, she has turned ideas into opportunities. Kenya and Africa as a whole can replicate this approach to empower its own artists and citizens with disabilities.”
Kenya has introduced disability policies in recent years but campaigners argue implementation remains uneven, pointing to gaps in education, employment, technology access, and inclusive cultural spaces.
Observers say Eswatini’s deliberate investment shows inclusion can move from paper commitments to lived reality.
Festival organisers closed with a call for cross-border collaboration, expressing hope that Kenyan performers with disabilities will take part in the next edition and feature in the planned music project.

By John Kariuki

The Kenya Women Parliamentarians Association (KEWOPA), led by its National Chairperson Hon. Leah Sankaire, has come out with the strongest possible condemnation following the disturbing humiliation of two sisters from Kenana Primary School in Njoro, Nakuru County. The girls, who were shamed for lacking underwear, were subjected to degrading treatment that has sparked national outrage and revealed deep-seated insensitivity within the education system.

Hon. Sankaire castigated the school’s actions as a shameful violation of the girls’ dignity and fundamental rights. She asserted that no child should ever be reduced to an object of ridicule simply because of poverty, describing the incident as a moral and institutional failure that dishonors Kenya’s commitment to protecting children. Sankaire warned that if such injustices are not confronted decisively, they will breed a culture of impunity where educators become perpetrators instead of protectors.

In her remarks, Sankaire demanded urgent accountability, insisting that the teachers and administrators involved must face immediate disciplinary action. She stressed that KEWOPA will not sit back and watch as vulnerable girls are scarred by a system that should shield them. Instead of punishing children for their lack, she argued, schools must be havens of compassion and empowerment.

The KEWOPA Chair further called on Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba to intervene swiftly and guarantee the sisters not only return to school but also receive psychosocial support to heal from the trauma. He must ensure the Ministry of Education treats this as a wake-up call to confront the silent crisis of poverty in schools. (The current Cabinet Secretary for Education is Julius Migos Ogamba.)

“This barbaric incident is an affront to the conscience of our nation,” Sankaire stated firmly. “It is unacceptable, it is demeaning, and it will not be tolerated. KEWOPA will relentlessly pursue justice for these girls until accountability is achieved and structural reforms are put in place.”

The association reaffirmed its resolve to stand with all Kenyan children, warning that any future acts of humiliation, intimidation, or abuse against young girls will be met with unyielding resistance and public outcry

By Judith Mwai

Greenpeace Kenya is calling on the government to protect the country’s forests from degradation and private development. The organization highlights the alarming rate of forest land grabbing for private projects, which threatens the very existence of these public entities.

The Fight for Forests

Greenpeace Kenya Communications Manager Sherie Gakii emphasizes the importance of defending forests, citing recent examples of forest land being grabbed for private development. The organization is part of a coalition of groups, including Laudato Si movement and (link unavailable), working to protect Kenya’s forests.

Threats to Forests

Gakii highlights several instances of forest degradation, including:

• Karura Forest: Threatened by road expansion and private development
• Imensi Forest: Under threat from land grabbing
• Abadea Forest: Plans to construct a highway through the forest
• Swam Forest: Threatened by plans to construct a border town

The Power of People

Gakii emphasizes the power of public pressure in protecting forests, citing a recent court decision to reject a proposal to take 51 acres of Karura Forest for road expansion. The organization is calling on Kenyans to join the fight to defend forests.

Call to Action

Greenpeace Kenya is calling on the government to:

• Protect Forests: Take a stance to protect forests from degradation and private development
• Do the Right Thing: Mandate the Kenya Forest Service to effectively protect forests
• Stand Up for Forests: Reject plans that threaten forest ecosystems

Faith Community Joins the Fight

The faith community is also joining the fight to protect forests, recognizing the importance of environmental conservation. Gakii emphasizes that the climate movement is for everybody and that everyone needs to join the fight to protect forests.

Government Inaction

Gakii criticizes the government for failing to protect forests, citing the Cabinet Secretary’s silence on forest degradation. The organization calls on the government to take a stance and protect forests, rather than talking about planting trees while cutting them down.

By John Kariuki

Peter Macharia Kamau, the Chief Executive Officer of Jijenge Credit Limited, has reaffirmed the company’s commitment to empowering Kenyans through accessible and reliable financial solutions. With their innovative logbook loans, Jijenge is turning car ownership into a powerful tool for personal and business growth.

“Your car is more than just a means of transport, it can also be the key to your next big goal,” says Peter Macharia Kamau. Jijenge Logbook Loans provide quick cash, flexible repayment plans, and transparent terms, enabling clients to access much-needed funds without unnecessary hurdles.

In a market where many financial institutions impose rigid conditions, Jijenge Credit stands out for its customer-focused approach. The company’s products are tailored to meet the diverse needs of Kenyans, whether it is financing education, expanding a business, handling emergencies, or investing in new opportunities.

One of the biggest advantages of Jijenge’s logbook loans is that clients retain full use of their vehicles while accessing funds. This allows individuals to continue running businesses, commuting, or meeting family needs without disruption. The balance between liquidity and convenience has made logbook loans increasingly popular, especially among entrepreneurs, small business owners, and self-employed individuals seeking reliable financial support.

Transparency has also been a cornerstone of Jijenge Credit’s growth. The company provides straightforward agreements without hidden charges, giving borrowers confidence and peace of mind. Combined with flexible repayment schedules, this has built lasting trust and loyalty among clients who see Jijenge as more than a lender, but a dependable financial partner.

Success stories from satisfied customers further highlight the impact of Jijenge’s services. Many beneficiaries have been able to grow their businesses, pay school fees on time, or invest in new opportunities simply by leveraging their vehicles. For these clients, Jijenge has not only provided credit but has also restored hope and expanded possibilities.

As Peter Macharia Kamau emphasizes, the mission is not just about loans, but about unlocking potential and fueling dreams. By offering accessible and flexible solutions, Jijenge Credit Limited continues to position itself as a leader in financial empowerment, driving progress and prosperity across Kenya.

By steve

Members of Parliament and the Senate have called for calm and dialogue in Nairobi politics, urging Governor Johnson Sakaja to be given time to deliver on the promises he made to city residents.

Speaking on Thursday, Mathare MP Oluoch Anthony, Embakasi West MP Mark Mwenje, and Nominated Senator Karen Nyamu emphasized that the focus should remain on service delivery, not divisive political battles.

This comes in the wake of an aborted impeachment motion against Governor Sakaja by Members of the Nairobi County Assembly (MCAs). The lawmakers acknowledged the MCAs’ constitutional right to oversight but praised their decision to step down the proceedings after consultations with President William Ruto and Azimio leader Raila Odinga.

“Our constitution allows for oversight, including impeachment, but it also allows space for dialogue. The MCAs had raised genuine issues, but wisdom prevailed when national leaders intervened to prioritize the greater public interest,” MP Oluoch stated.

The leaders argued that impeachment would have destabilized Nairobi, drawing parallels with the chaos that followed the removal of former Governor Mike Sonko, which led to the formation of the Nairobi Metropolitan Services (NMS) and service delivery disruptions.

Instead, they said, the governor now has a critical opportunity to “reconnect with his base” and realign his administration with the priorities of Nairobi residents.

Among the issues highlighted were poor garbage collection, delayed payments to contractors, and delayed bursary disbursements problems that MCAs had flagged during their oversight sessions.

“This 60-day window must not be wasted. Governor Sakaja should use it to address key service delivery challenges so that Nairobians can feel the impact of his administration. Dialogue is the best way forward,” Senator Nyamu added.

The leaders further framed the decision as a victory for President Ruto’s broad-based governance agenda, noting that Nairobi’s stability is crucial to the success of the national conversation.

They insisted that this reprieve should not be seen as a political escape for the governor but as a silver lining a chance for him to refocus on leadership, governance, and the mantra that guided his campaign: Itaabidi Iwork (It must work).

“Everyone deserves a second chance,” MP Mwenje said. “What matters now is that the governor proves to the people of Nairobi that his government is capable of delivering.”

The political truce, they noted, gives Nairobians hope that instead of partisan fights, leaders can come together to address pressing issues facing the capital.

Today marks a major milestone for Kenya’s tourism sector. I am proud to announce that the Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA) has acquired a new fleet of vehicles to enhance regulatory operations across the country.

With these vehicles, we will be able to conduct regular inspections, enforce compliance, and respond swiftly to stakeholders ensuring that Kenya remains a preferred global tourism destination.

This investment also comes as we prepare to undertake a national classification exercise for hotels and facilities, which has not been done for more than five years.The move is fully aligned with the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, and in line with our government’s goal of attracting 5 million international arrivals by 2027, we are committed to supporting facilities that fall short of required standards through structured capacity-building programs.

The private sector is a critical partner in this mission. The Government is seeking closer collaboration with sector associations to encourage professionalism through self-regulation. Our doors remain open, and we encourage the sharing of information to enhance destination competitiveness and build a fair, transparent industry that benefits us all.

Sincere appreciation to the Tourism Regulatory Authority Board and Management for their dedication, and recognize the efforts of the Tourism Promotion Fund in the purchase of these vehicles. Your continued commitment is key to building capacity and strengthening Kenya’s tourism sector.
By strengthening TRA’s operational capacity, we are not just improving mobility ,we are reinforcing consumer confidence and safeguarding the future of Kenyan tourism.
MagicalKenya

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.