Author: staff reporter

By Steve El Sabai

In a graceful and dignified ceremony held at the State Department for Devolution, outgoing Principal Secretary Teresia Mbaika today officially handed over the reins to her successor, Principal Secretary Michael Loikenu Lenasalon. The symbolic transition marks the beginning of a new chapter in the stewardship of Kenya’s devolution agenda.

Extending her warmest congratulations to PS Lenasalon, PS Mbaika expressed profound confidence in his ability to elevate the State Department to even greater heights. “I am delighted in the notable strides we were able to achieve in strengthening the devolution agenda,” she remarked. “With that foundation firmly laid, I am confident that my successor will steer the Department with renewed vigor and purpose.”

During her tenure, PS Mbaika led with vision, fortitude, and an unwavering commitment to deepening devolution and enhancing service delivery at the grassroots. Her legacy is punctuated by robust intergovernmental collaboration, strategic policy interventions, and a resolute dedication to building capacity in county governments.

She expressed heartfelt appreciation to His Excellency President William Samoei Ruto for the trust bestowed upon her to serve in such a critical portfolio. “I also sincerely appreciate the Devolution staff for their unwavering support during my tenure. They are a remarkable team that made my tour of duty both fulfilling and enjoyable,” she added.

As she bows out, PS Teresia Mbaika’s tenure will be remembered as one of transformative leadership and institutional strengthening. Her contribution to the advancement of Kenya’s devolution framework has laid a strong and enduring foundation—one upon which the incoming Principal Secretary can now build.

Indeed, the devolution journey continues, propelled by the exemplary service and accomplishments of leaders like PS Teresia Mbaika, whose impact will resonate across counties for years to come.

By John Kariuki

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) on Wednesday convened a seminal National Consultation in Nairobi aimed at accelerating the domestication and harmonized implementation of the IGAD Regional Qualifications Framework (IRQF) alongside the Kenya National Qualifications Framework (KNQF)—a landmark step in streamlining education and skills recognition across the region.

The high-profile consultation brought together senior officials from Kenya’s Ministry of Education, national regulatory bodies, technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions, universities, quality assurance agencies, and international development partners. The overarching goal of the engagement was to cultivate a unified understanding of the frameworks’ scope, governance, and transformative potential, while reflecting on Kenya’s trajectory in implementing the KNQF over the past decade.

At the heart of the deliberations was the recognition of education and training as critical enablers of socioeconomic transformation and regional integration. By advancing the IRQF, IGAD seeks to establish a standardized, transparent, and mutually recognizable qualifications system that facilitates cross-border mobility of learners and skilled labor, enhances employability, and supports lifelong learning.

The Kenya National Qualifications Framework, developed and stewarded by the Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA), has served as a cornerstone in restructuring the national education and training architecture. It provides a systematic classification of qualifications based on learning outcomes, credit accumulation, and quality assurance—a framework that is now being benchmarked against regional imperatives through the IGAD consultation process.

In her opening remarks, an official from Kenya’s Ministry of Education reiterated the government’s commitment to delivering a competency-based, inclusive, and globally competitive education system. “This national consultation is not only an evaluation exercise but also a platform to reimagine how we can better align our qualifications with labor market demands, regional development goals, and the aspirations of Kenya Vision 2030,” she stated.

The consultation focused on strategic themes, including the governance of qualifications frameworks, the role of digital credentials and micro-credentials, mechanisms for recognition of prior learning (RPL), and the integration of TVET and higher education pathways. Stakeholders also explored institutional bottlenecks and capacity-building needs that must be addressed to achieve seamless interoperability between national and regional qualifications frameworks.

IGAD’s Regional Qualifications Framework is envisioned as a policy instrument that will underpin greater coherence across national education systems in the region. By fostering alignment, transparency, and trust in the value of qualifications, it offers a powerful tool for unlocking human capital, enhancing regional competitiveness, and shaping a future-ready workforce.

by Steve El Sabai

As he transitions from the corridors of domestic public administration to the international diplomatic stage, outgoing Principal Secretary Geoffrey Kaituko offers a compelling narrative of reform, institutional fortification, and visionary leadership. His departure marks the culmination of a tenure distinguished by resolute governance and strategic policy interventions that have left a lasting imprint on Kenya’s labour and maritime sectors.

Reflecting on his appointment to the Ministry of Labour in November 2022, Kaituko recounts inheriting a volatile migration landscape, particularly with regard to Kenyan migrant workers in the Gulf region. “At the time, the distress signals emanating from Saudi Arabia were deafening — dominating headlines and exposing the vulnerabilities in our bilateral labour frameworks,” he stated.

In response, Kaituko orchestrated a comprehensive suite of reforms that not only stemmed the tide of abuse but also introduced systemic accountability. “Through meticulous policy engineering and diplomatic engagement, we restored order to an otherwise chaotic domain.” Central to these efforts was the conceptualization and subsequent Cabinet approval of Kenya’s Global Labour Migration Strategy in August 2023 — a forward-looking blueprint that now undergirds the nation’s international labour mobility agenda.

Upon his redeployment to the State Department for Shipping and Maritime Affairs, Kaituko applied the same reformist zeal to an equally complex sector. “One of our paramount achievements was the entrenchment of robust regulatory frameworks through Parliamentary sanction,” he noted. “A sector governed by a debilitated regulator is predisposed to dysfunction; we reversed that trajectory by fortifying the Kenya Maritime Authority.”

These reforms were complemented by a surge in seafaring opportunities for Kenyans, with over 5,000 maritime professionals deployed to foreign vessels. “This outcome is a direct dividend of deepened bilateral ties and proactive engagement with international maritime employers, particularly within the hospitality cluster,” Kaituko explained.

The revitalization of the Bandari Maritime Academy stands as a testament to Kaituko’s commitment to capacity building. Tuition fees were halved — and in some cases, slashed by nearly 80% — broadening access to maritime training and enhancing Kenya’s competitiveness in the global seafaring market.

Meanwhile, national maritime security received an unprecedented boost through the operationalization of the National Maritime Security Committee — a multi-agency entity tasked with safeguarding Kenya’s territorial waters. “We confronted maritime criminality head-on, from wildlife trafficking and illicit smuggling to petty theft. We established a robust surveillance and enforcement mechanism that has since neutralized many of these threats,” he affirmed.

On the perennial issue of ferry congestion at the Likoni Channel, Kaituko acknowledged the complexity of the challenge but pointed to tangible progress. “We have engaged the Kenya Ports Authority, which has pledged to augment ferry capacity. Additionally, we are promoting the usage of the Dongo Kundu Bypass and advancing plans for a long-span bridge to offer a permanent resolution. It is incumbent upon us to evolve beyond legacy solutions and embrace infrastructure that reflects contemporary realities.”

With his appointment as Ambassador and Deputy Head of Mission to Rome, Kaituko now assumes a role of enhanced strategic significance. The Rome mission, which spans Italy, Greece, Malta, Cyprus, and Albania, also encompasses multilateral representation at the World Food Programme (WFP), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and IFAD.

“This appointment aligns seamlessly with the government’s food security agenda under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). I am honoured to be entrusted with this responsibility and look forward to working collaboratively with our diplomatic cohort in Rome,” he said.

Before formally assuming the post, Ambassador-Designate Kaituko will undergo mandatory induction at the Foreign Service Academy, alongside five other appointees. “It is a necessary rite of passage — one that will equip us with the requisite tools to serve our country with diligence, decorum, and distinction.”

By John Kariuki

Principal Secretary for Gender, Ann Wangombe, recently had the privilege of hosting a delegation of distinguished Women Representatives, including Esther M. Passaris, OGW, Hon. Jane Kagiri OGW, Hon. Lillian Siyoi Walubengo, and Hon. Donya Dorice Aburi, who called on her for a formal engagement.

The meeting offered a crucial platform for dialogue, allowing the leaders to address a wide range of pressing issues within their respective constituencies and areas of mutual interest. From empowering women and ensuring equitable access to resources to strengthening policy frameworks that foster inclusive development, the discussions were both insightful and forward-thinking.

PS Wangombe emphasized that the State Department for Gender remains unwavering in its commitment to collaborate with Women Representatives across the country. “This meeting was an invaluable opportunity to explore ways we can work together to accelerate the progress of women in our society,” she said. “We are committed to ensuring that the voices of women are heard at all levels, and that their contributions are fully recognized in the national development agenda.”

The engagement underscored the importance of partnerships and joint efforts in advancing gender equality and promoting policies that ensure women are central to Kenya’s development. As the discussions unfolded, there was a shared commitment to building a more inclusive society where women are not only participants but leaders in all areas of life.

The State Department for Gender, through its continued support of Women Representatives, remains resolute in its goal to drive inclusive development, empower women, and address the challenges they face in the pursuit of equality and justice.

𝐌𝐛𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐢 𝐑𝐨𝐚𝐝

𝐓𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟏𝟕, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓

The National Assembly Committee on Administration and Internal Security has urged the National Police Service (NPS) and the National Police Service Commission (NPSC) to consider upgrading the newly constructed National Police Service Level 4 Hospital to a Level 5 facility.

During an inspection tour of the hospital, the Committee held engagements with the Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service, Mr. Eliud Lagat, Chief Executive Officer of the National Police Service Commission, Mr. Peter Leley, representatives from the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Health, as well as hospital staff.

In a briefing to the Committee, Mr. Opil, the officer in charge of the facility, explained that the hospital is yet to be operational due to pending issues with the contractor.

“The total cost of the project to date stands at Ksh. 1.2 billion. Out of this, Ksh. 400 million has been disbursed by the Ministry of Interior and National Administration to the Ministry of Defence, leaving a balance of Ksh. 833,628,135,” stated Mr. Opil.

The hospital, which spans a floor area of 5,800 square metres, has a bed capacity of 150. It also includes parking facilities for four ambulances, 20 staff vehicles, and 50 public vehicles.

Committee Members inquired about the parameters used to classify the facility as a Level 4 hospital and sought clarification on what is required for it to attain Level 5 status.

They were informed that classification depends on a checklist that includes service offerings, infrastructure, personnel, and documentation such as valid registration and practice licenses for medical staff. It was noted that the absence of an MRI machine is the primary factor preventing its elevation to Level 5.

Led by the Committee’s Vice Chairperson, Col. (Rtd.) Hon. Dido Rasso (Saku), Members advised the relevant officials to prioritize the acquisition of an MRI machine.

They emphasized that attaining Level 5 status would bring the hospital under the jurisdiction of the national government, thereby easing access to funding through the National Treasury. Furthermore, the facility would then serve as a referral hospital.

During the tour, the Committee observed that the hospital is already well-equipped, with many machines having been installed since 2022 but yet to be put to use.

The legislators called on the officials to present a comprehensive estimate for operationalizing the hospital, with a view to factoring it into the upcoming budget.

“As a Committee, we are committed to securing the funds needed to make this hospital fully operational. This inspection has been insightful, and we now have a clear understanding of the situation on the ground,” said Hon. Rasso.

By John Kariuki

As Kenya charts its course toward a future where travel and conservation go hand in hand, Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Rebecca Miano, EGH, has emphasized the pivotal role of community-based tourism in redefining the country’s tourism narrative. CS Miano, a staunch advocate of ecotourism, is dedicated to ensuring that tourism in Kenya is not only economically viable but also deeply rooted in sustainable, community-driven practices that uplift local communities while conserving the country’s rich natural and cultural heritage.

“Tourism is not just about the destinations, but about the people who inhabit them,” CS Miano asserted. “Community tourism enables us to amplify the voices of local communities, showcase their unique traditions, and ensure that the fruits of tourism directly benefit the grassroots.”

Through ecotourism, travellers are invited to move beyond the typical sightseeing experience and instead engage deeply with the cultures and environments they visit. This immersive approach allows visitors to connect with Kenya’s vibrant communities, learning about their traditional practices, cultural rituals, and time-honored ways of life that have been passed down through generations.

“Simple actions can make a profound impact,” CS Miano continued. “It’s as easy as hiring a local guide, dining at a community-run restaurant, purchasing locally crafted souvenirs, or visiting a community-managed cultural village. These small gestures allow travellers to experience authentic Kenya and, in turn, contribute directly to the local economy.”

This form of tourism not only provides economic empowerment to rural and marginalized communities but also promotes a more responsible, regenerative form of travel that respects both people and place. By supporting local enterprises, travellers ensure that the economic benefits of tourism are reinvested in the community, creating a sustainable cycle of growth that supports both conservation and cultural preservation.

“Through these experiences, we build long-lasting relationships between the traveller and the community,” CS Miano explained. “What’s more, these exchanges foster mutual respect, deepen understanding, and encourage the preservation of Kenya’s biodiversity and heritage for future generations.”

Under the banner of Magical Kenya, CS Miano continues to advance policies that intertwine sustainability with economic opportunity. Her leadership has seen a rise in initiatives that not only bolster Kenya’s position as a global tourist destination but also ensure that tourism development is aligned with environmental sustainability and community welfare.

By promoting ecotourism, Kenya is positioning itself as a model of sustainable travel—where the interests of the traveller, the community, and the environment are inextricably linked. As CS Miano envisions, the future of tourism is one that ensures inclusive growth, cultural integrity, and conservation are at its core.

Community-based human rights defenders and civil society activists from Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania have raised serious alarm over what they describe as a “drastically deteriorating state of human rights” across East Africa.

Speaking in Nairobi during a regional human rights and social justice training, VOCAL Africa—the convener of the gathering—condemned the region-wide erosion of civic freedoms, intensifying state repression, and the mounting persecution of opposition figures.

“This gathering has provided us with an urgent space to confront the alarming escalation of state-sanctioned repression and to affirm our shared commitment to justice, dignity, and human freedom,” the group said in a press statement.

According to the statement, civic space—the cornerstone of any democratic society—is being systematically dismantled throughout the region. The defenders cited rising intimidation, unlawful surveillance, draconian legislation, and violent crackdowns on dissent.

In Kenya, the resurgence of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings was flagged as especially troubling. Among the recent victims named were Brian Odhiambo, Ibrahim Ramadhan, Dennis Muthui, and Musa Kibet—a high school student—all of whom reportedly disappeared or were killed under suspicious circumstances allegedly involving state security agencies.

In Uganda, the group cited an escalation in abductions and illegal detentions of opposition members and student leaders, particularly those aligned with the National Unity Platform (NUP). Authorities were accused of flouting court rulings by continuing to try civilians in military courts, despite a Supreme Court decision declaring the practice unconstitutional.

In Tanzania, activists and opposition figures reportedly continue to face intimidation, harassment, and violence. The statement highlighted the unresolved case of missing youth activist Deusdedith Soka and the brutal murder of Ali Kibao, whose mutilated body was discovered on the shores of Dar es Salaam.

“These violations are not isolated incidents,” the defenders warned. “They reflect systemic patterns that signal the erosion of democratic institutions and a growing intolerance for dissent across the region.”

The defenders also denounced the “criminalization of political opposition,” pointing to a pattern of politically motivated arrests and harassment.

“In Uganda, longtime opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye was recently detained again on unclear charges. In Kenya, critics of government corruption and mismanagement have faced harassment and arrest. Meanwhile, in Tanzania, opposition leader Tundu Lissu was taken into custody for demanding electoral reforms,” the statement added.

Across all three countries, opposition leaders have faced escalating surveillance and bans on public gatherings—measures the defenders say violate fundamental constitutional rights.

The group demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners and detained opposition figures. They called on regional bodies, the international community, and the general public to stand in solidarity against what they termed a “coordinated and deliberate” assault on democracy in East Africa.

“The persecution of dissenting voices is not only unlawful, but a betrayal of the democratic ideals enshrined in our constitutions and international commitments,” the statement concluded.

By John Kariuki

Faith Odhiambo, an exceptional legal mind and an advocate for justice, has been lauded for her unwavering dedication to the principles of justice and fairness by receiving the highly esteemed 24th Commonwealth Law Conference Rule of Law Award.

This distinguished recognition comes as a testament to Faith’s remarkable contribution to the legal field, where she has been a beacon of hope and inspiration for many aspiring legal professionals across the globe. Her passion for advancing the rule of law, upholding human rights, and promoting legal reforms is truly unparalleled, earning her a place among the most respected figures in the legal community.

The Commonwealth Law Conference Rule of Law Award is given to individuals who have made significant and sustained contributions to the promotion of the rule of law, a cause Faith Odhiambo has passionately championed throughout her career. This prestigious honor not only recognizes her outstanding legal expertise but also acknowledges the profound impact she has had on enhancing justice and human dignity within the Commonwealth.

In her acceptance speech, Faith Odhiambo expressed deep gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing that the award is a collective achievement, not only for her but also for the many mentors, colleagues, and supporters who have stood by her throughout her career. She reiterated her commitment to continuing her work in strengthening legal frameworks, advocating for the voiceless, and ensuring that justice remains accessible to all.

As the 24th recipient of this esteemed award, Faith Odhiambo is celebrated not just for her excellence in law but for her dedication to ensuring that the rule of law remains the cornerstone of a just and fair society.

Her groundbreaking work and contributions set a high standard for legal professionals around the world, cementing her legacy as a trailblazer who continues to inspire change and foster hope in the pursuit of justice.

By John Kariuki

Githunguri, Kenya – Fiery Githunguri Member of Parliament, Hon. Gathoni Wamuchomba, has once again stirred the hornet’s nest, this time calling out what she terms as reckless and unaccounted public expenditure by the ruling Kenya Kwanza (KK) Brigade.

In a strongly-worded statement, Wamuchomba questioned the source of the massive funds allegedly spent during a single day of political events in Kilgoris, Githunguri, and Kiambaa. According to her, over KES 100 million was splashed in public donations, luxurious motorcades, and high-end helicopters as the KK team crisscrossed the three regions.

“Pressing for accountability is our singular role,” Wamuchomba asserted. “Yesterday alone, the KK Brigade spent over KES 100 million in public displays. Each MP had something to show off in their respective constituencies—choppers, limousines, and bundles of donations. The question Kenyans must ask is, where is this money coming from?”

The Githunguri MP, known for her bold and unapologetic stance, further criticized the government for its failure to meet basic financial obligations while its leaders appear to operate with extravagant ease.

“How is it that the government is struggling to pay its bills—delayed salaries, stalled development projects, and unpaid contractors—yet these leaders have access to unlimited resources for political theatrics?” she posed.

Her remarks have sparked fresh debate about transparency, accountability, and priorities within the ruling administration. As Kenyans grapple with rising living costs and economic uncertainty, the optics of opulence and unchecked spending are unlikely to go unnoticed.

Wamuchomba has urged investigative agencies and Parliament to initiate a thorough audit into the sources and use of such funds, insisting that leaders must be held accountable to the people they serve.

By John Kariuki

The Chief Executive Officer of the National Land Commission (NLC), CHRP Kabale Tache Arero, has reaffirmed the Commission’s unwavering commitment to the strategic adoption of cutting-edge geospatial technologies as a cornerstone of progressive land administration in Kenya.

On Monday morning, Arero, accompanied by NLC Chairperson Gershom Otachi, presided over the formal inauguration of a comprehensive Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing Training Programme at the Regional Centre for Mapping of Resources for Development (RCMRD) in Kasarani. The initiative is tailored for county and national government officials, with the objective of enhancing institutional capacity in evidence-based spatial planning and sustainable land governance.

“The integration of GIS and remote sensing technologies has fundamentally transformed the architecture of land management,” Arero remarked. “These tools provide precise, real-time data that enable informed decision-making, optimize resource allocation, and fortify the foundations of sustainable development within our communities.”

She emphasized that the deployment of such advanced technologies is pivotal to refining land use efficiency, curbing mismanagement, and fostering an ecosystem of accountability and transparency in public land administration.

“At the National Land Commission, we are resolute in our pursuit of innovation-driven governance. We are deploying these tools not only to modernize our operational frameworks but to also actualize the development of an exhaustive public land inventory. Our overarching aim is to ensure equitable, efficient, and sustainable utilization of land for the collective good of the citizenry,” she asserted.

As Kenya grapples with complex land-related challenges—from historical injustices to rapid urbanization—the incorporation of geospatial intelligence is increasingly indispensable. By empowering public servants with this knowledge, the Commission aspires to entrench data-driven planning and propel the nation toward a future where land resources are judiciously managed and equitably distributed.

The GIS and Remote Sensing initiative exemplifies the Commission’s forward-thinking ethos, positioning it at the vanguard of digital transformation within the land sector and reinforcing its mandate to safeguard the national land interest with precision, integrity, and innovation.