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Kenya’s Civil Society Network Urges Government to Probe Trafficking for Forced Criminality

The Network Against Human Trafficking and Smuggling of Migrants (NAHUSOM), a coalition of civil society and faith-based organizations, has raised the alarm over the disturbing rise in human trafficking for forced criminality involving Kenyan nationals.

In a joint statement issued Thursday in Nairobi, NAHUSOM—which includes groups such as Counter Human Trafficking East Africa (CHTEA), the Salvation Army, Sema Nami, among others—called on the Government of Kenya to urgently establish a Special Inquiry Commission to investigate the trafficking of citizens, particularly to conflict zones like Myanmar, where victims have reportedly been forced into cybercrime under duress.

The call follows alarming revelations from the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs. In February, the Ministry confirmed that several Kenyans were among hundreds of foreign nationals lured to Myanmar and held in fraud centres operated by armed rebel groups. According to the Ministry, victims were coerced into online crimes including fraud, phishing, romance scams, identity theft, and cryptocurrency scams—often under inhumane and life-threatening conditions.

NAHUSOM expressed deep concern over this emerging form of exploitation, describing it as a chilling evolution of human trafficking. While the crime has traditionally involved forced labor, sexual exploitation, and domestic servitude, traffickers are now forcing victims to commit criminal acts. This trend not only deepens the trauma for survivors but also threatens Kenya’s national security and global cyber safety.

The network also drew attention to the ongoing suffering of Kenyan domestic workers in Gulf countries, where many continue to face abuse, exploitation, and even death.

While acknowledging the government’s efforts in rescuing and repatriating some victims from Myanmar, NAHUSOM emphasized the need for stronger and more transparent interventions. The network urged the state to establish a fully mandated commission to uncover the full extent of trafficking for forced criminality, investigate those involved, and ensure accountability for institutions, recruitment agencies, and individuals found complicit.

Additionally, NAHUSOM called for enhanced protections for Kenyan migrant workers and stronger reintegration support systems for trafficking survivors.

Reaffirming its commitment to the fight against human trafficking, NAHUSOM said it will nominate anti-trafficking experts to support the work of the proposed commission and collaborate with the government on efforts to protect victims, prosecute offenders, and strengthen prevention mechanisms.

“We urge immediate action to ensure that no Kenyan becomes a victim of such exploitative and criminal trafficking schemes,” the statement read in part.

The network concluded by calling on the government to act swiftly and decisively, saying it is a matter of national urgency and human dignity.

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𝐊𝐖𝐒 𝐕𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐆𝐨 𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐁𝐞𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐌𝐮𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐚-𝐑𝐮𝐦𝐮𝐫𝐮𝐭𝐢 𝐀𝐫𝐞𝐚

On April 5, 2025, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) launched a lion capture operation in Mutara-Rumuruti to address rising human-wildlife conflict. Lions have been reported to be preying on livestock, increasing tensions in the community.

During the search operation for the lions, the KWS Veterinary and Capture Unit came across a limping bull. Dr. Maurice Gichangi, a KWS vet, sought permission from the bull’s owner to provide care. With consent, he treated the animal’s injured leg—going beyond their call of duties to offer relief.

The lion search operation continues, aiming to relocate the lions and reduce the conflict. This incident highlights KWS’s commitment to both wildlife conservation and the well-being of communities.

Every action counts, and every life matters! By working together, we can ensure harmonious coexistence in our shared spaces for generations to come.

CommunitiesForWildlife #ThrivingWildlifeForever #TunzaMaliYako

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𝐊𝐄𝐖𝐎𝐒𝐀’𝐒 𝐍𝐄𝐖 𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐃𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐇𝐈𝐏 𝐌𝐀𝐊𝐄𝐒 𝐀 𝐁𝐎𝐋𝐃 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐌𝐈𝐓𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐓𝐎 𝐓𝐀𝐂𝐊𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐑 𝐁𝐀𝐒𝐄𝐃 𝐕𝐈𝐎𝐋𝐄𝐍𝐂𝐄

𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝟗𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓

The Kenya Women Senators Association (KEWOSA) embarked on a transformative journey, ushering in new leadership focused on accountability, presence and purpose.

Senator Veronica Maina was elected Chairperson on 1st April 2025, leading alongside Vice Chair, Senator Hezena Lemaletian. Senators Beth Syengo, Mariam Omar and Esther Okenyuri continue their roles as Secretary, Treasurer and Organizing Secretary, respectively. They promised their commitment to creating a more inclusive and purpose-driven KEWOSA, ensuring that no woman is left behind.

KEWOSA is also confronting a national crisis, the rising tide of gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide. In a press statement this Wednesday, KEWOSA expressed its outrage over the increasing violence against women and girls across the country demanding action.

“We mourn the loss of 17-year-old Gaala Aden Abdi from Wajir, murdered for rejecting an arranged marriage. We remember the woman in Baringo, tragically killed by her estranged husband in front of her children. We stand with widows in Kisii and Nyamira, who are stripped of their dignity by outdated customs. These are not traditions they are crimes,” said Chairperson Sen. Maina.

While appreciating the government’s allocation of Ksh. 100 million under the leadership of the President to combat GBV and femicide, KEWOSA stressed that laws alone are insufficient without implementation. With counties like Nairobi, Kiambu and Nakuru grappling with alarming cases, KEWOSA is taking the fight to the grassroots. Each nominated senator has been allocated KSh 930,000 to lead advocacy and community sensitization programmes tailored to their constituencies.

“From advocating for gender desks in police stations, expediting GBV case prosecutions and promoting responsible media reporting, to fostering community-centered action and empowering survivors, KEWOSA is declaring: Enough is enough. Today’s message is not just a statement. It’s a call to action,” Sen. Maina affirmed.

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KSG and IPA sign Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)

KSG Director General Prof. Nura Mohamed, Ph.D, EBS and Principal of IPA Dr. Shabaan M. Suleiman signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Kenya School of Government and Institute of Public Administration (IPA), Zanzibar to advance areas of mutual interest such as capacity development and research in various areas- governance, human resource management, and environment sustainability among others.
Together with Prof. Mohamed from KSG, are Dr. Prisca Oluoch, Director Linkages and Collaboration and Ms. Elizabeth Ngava, Principal Administrative Office in the Office of the Director General.

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𝐊𝐄𝐖𝐎𝐒𝐀’𝐒 𝐍𝐄𝐖 𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐃𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐇𝐈𝐏 𝐌𝐀𝐊𝐄𝐒 𝐀 𝐁𝐎𝐋𝐃 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐌𝐈𝐓𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐓𝐎 𝐓𝐀𝐂𝐊𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐑 𝐁𝐀𝐒𝐄𝐃 𝐕𝐈𝐎𝐋𝐄𝐍𝐂𝐄

𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝟗𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓

The Kenya Women Senators Association (KEWOSA) embarked on a transformative journey, ushering in new leadership focused on accountability, presence and purpose.

Senator Veronica Maina was elected Chairperson on 1st April 2025, leading alongside Vice Chair, Senator Hezena Lemaletian. Senators Beth Syengo, Mariam Omar and Esther Okenyuri continue their roles as Secretary, Treasurer and Organizing Secretary, respectively. They promised their commitment to creating a more inclusive and purpose-driven KEWOSA, ensuring that no woman is left behind.

KEWOSA is also confronting a national crisis, the rising tide of gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide. In a press statement this Wednesday, KEWOSA expressed its outrage over the increasing violence against women and girls across the country demanding action.

“We mourn the loss of 17-year-old Gaala Aden Abdi from Wajir, murdered for rejecting an arranged marriage. We remember the woman in Baringo, tragically killed by her estranged husband in front of her children. We stand with widows in Kisii and Nyamira, who are stripped of their dignity by outdated customs. These are not traditions they are crimes,” said Chairperson Sen. Maina.

While appreciating the government’s allocation of Ksh. 100 million under the leadership of the President to combat GBV and femicide, KEWOSA stressed that laws alone are insufficient without implementation. With counties like Nairobi, Kiambu and Nakuru grappling with alarming cases, KEWOSA is taking the fight to the grassroots. Each nominated senator has been allocated KSh 930,000 to lead advocacy and community sensitization programmes tailored to their constituencies.

“From advocating for gender desks in police stations, expediting GBV case prosecutions and promoting responsible media reporting, to fostering community-centered action and empowering survivors, KEWOSA is declaring: Enough is enough. Today’s message is not just a statement. It’s a call to action,” Sen. Maina affirmed.

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INAUGURAL CHAMBERS SUMMIT KICKS OFF IN NAIROBI

The ICC World Federation of Chambers (WCF) and the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KICC), in partnership with Absa Bank Kenya, host the WCF Africa Summit from 9 to 10 April 2025 at the KICC in Nairobi.

Nairobi, 8th April 2024 – Nairobi hosts delegates from over 70 countries during the World Chambers Federation (WCF) Africa Summit on 9th and 10th April 2025. This high-level summit, held in partnership with the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), the World Chambers Federation (WCF) and Absa Bank Kenya, is bringing together global and regional stakeholders in trade, investment, and development.

This landmark event is organised under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework to promote economic growth, innovation, and collaboration. Under the theme “Africa’s Global Future: Integrated, Innovative, and Sustainable, ” the summit will focus on innovation and digital transformation, such as artificial intelligence, to enhance trade. It will also address the integration of sustainability into trade and investment discussions, aiming for commitments to green growth, climate-friendly business practices, and strategies for inclusive trade that involve women and youth in commerce.

During the summit’s opening ceremony President Ruto emphasised the importance of Chambers of Commerce in pushing for trade integration especially in Africa.

“Chambers of Commerce are indispensable because they bring a proactive and a solution-oriented perspective thus the KNCCI and World Chamber Federation serve as vital bridges between government and enterprise helping businesses navigate risks, unlock opportunities and expand into global markets. Their advocacy and support empower local entrepreneurs to think globally and act boldly. In Kenya, we fully embraced this transformation and in 2022, 41% of our exports were destined for African countries. Our manufacturers and tech start-ups are expanding across the region demonstrating our strong conviction that Kenya’s and Africa’s fortune lies in intra-trade,” said President Ruto

On her part Absa Bank Kenya Business Banking Director Elizabeth Wasunna praised the efforts of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and the World Chambers Federation in providing a platform for a vital discussion on Africa’s trade and investment future.

“This forum gathers the right people, including government leaders, business leaders, and policymakers, to align on strategies that unlock Africa’s full economic potential. At Absa, we focus on strategically providing the necessary frameworks to support SMEs, including women, for growth in Kenya, across Africa, and globally. Our commitment to empowering Africa’s tomorrow together remains steadfast, and this summit presents an opportunity for Absa to demonstrate our dedication to advancing Africa’s economy,” said Wasunna.

“We know that Africa faces a big challenge of a financial gap of USD 100 billion annually, while governments build physical infrastructure, as Chambers of Commerce our focus is to form trusted networks enabling trade despite the physical limitations in terms of logistics in Africa, provide business intelligence information so that MSMEs can be able to trade across Africa and globally, and distribution solution mechanisms which KNCCI is best known to solve trade disputes,” said KNCCI President Erick Rutto.

The two-day summit will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, and engaging networking sessions designed to drive Africa’s economic transformation and pave the way for the continent’s next era of growth and prosperity.

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Kenya Ranked 4th Best Performing Tourism Destination in Africa at UN Summit

Livingstone, Zambia – April 2025

Kenya has been ranked as the fourth best-performing tourism destination in Africa, a recognition announced during the 2nd UN Tourism Africa and Americas Ministerial Summit held in Livingstone, Zambia. The accolade is a testament to Kenya’s growing appeal and the remarkable recovery of its tourism sector in the post-pandemic era.

Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, speaking in Mombasa earlier this year, released the Annual Tourism Sector Performance Report for 2024, revealing impressive growth figures. According to Miano, international tourist arrivals rose by 15%, reaching 2.4 million visitors compared to 2.08 million in 2023.

“These numbers are not just statistics — they reflect the hard work, strategic investment, and innovation that have revitalized our tourism sector,” Miano said. “Our aggressive marketing campaigns, product diversification, enhanced connectivity through new flights, and adoption of digital platforms have made Kenya a competitive global destination.”

Tourism earnings also saw a sharp rise, increasing by 19.79% from KSh 377.49 billion in 2023 to KSh 452.20 billion in 2024. Domestic tourism contributed significantly to this growth, with bed-night occupancy rising by 12%, from 4.6 million in 2023 to over 5.1 million in 2024.

Cruise tourism also witnessed a remarkable upswing. In 2024, Kenya welcomed 6,561 cruise tourists — a staggering 163.5% increase from 2,490 the previous year.

The recognition at the UN Tourism Summit solidifies Kenya’s position as one of the continent’s leading tourism destinations. Looking ahead, Miano expressed confidence in the sector’s future trajectory.

“Based on current trends and our growth strategy, we remain optimistic that Kenya is on course to welcome 3 million visitors by 2025, potentially generating KSh 560 billion in tourism earnings,” she stated.

Kenya’s diverse offerings — from wildlife safaris and cultural heritage to coastal retreats and adventure experiences — continue to draw international

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Nurturing Resilience: KEF Equips High Schoolers with Life Skills at Kenya High

By Churchil Barasa
Nairobi, Kenya – April 9, 2025
You are cordially invited to Kenya High School, Nairobi, where the Kenya Education Fund (KEF) hosted an impactful Life Skills Workshop for Form 2 and Form 3 students. The event, held on the morning of April 9th, brought together students, parents, educators, and volunteers in a vibrant gathering centered on personal growth, mental wellness, and academic preparation.

The workshops were part of KEF’s broader initiative to empower its scholarship recipients with critical life skills throughout their four-year high school journey. A total of 365 students—205 from Form 2 and 160 from Form 3—benefited from the sessions, which focused on developing well-rounded, resilient, and future-ready individuals.

For the Form 2 cohort, this marked the second installment in the KEF life skills series. Students explored a range of topics including effective communication, self-awareness, drug awareness, character development, and reproductive health. The workshop also included academic and career guidance, where learners evaluated their community service projects and fine-tuned their action plans. A key highlight was a mental wellness session facilitated by KCB Foundation, which equipped students with practical coping strategies to manage stress and anxiety.

Meanwhile, the Form 3 workshop kicked off with a special parents’ meeting, emphasizing the importance of parental involvement beyond financial support. Discussions covered financial literacy and the shared responsibility of nurturing successful, ethical, and community-minded youth.

Form 3 students engaged in sessions on responsible social media use, decision-making, and problem-solving, along with personal resilience and talent development. They also reflected on their community service experiences and laid out plans for sustained engagement in their localities. KEF further supported them with new school uniforms, shoes, and essential textbooks, ensuring no barrier hindered their progress.

The workshops were enriched by the presence of over 30 KEF Alumni volunteers, who served as mentors, and a licensed therapist, who offered one-on-one counseling to support students’ mental health.

Through these workshops, KEF reaffirmed its mission to go beyond scholarships and invest in the holistic development of every student. As the students left the hall, many carried not just new knowledge and resources, but also renewed purpose and confidence.

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No Leadership Wrangles at Nairobi Hospital, New Board Assures Kenyans and Reaffirms Commitment to Service Delivery

The Board of The Nairobi Hospital has maintained its firm commitment to service delivery and institutional integrity. In a press conference in Nairobi on Tuesday, the Board addressed concerns following a resurgence of reports concerning internal management matters.

Speaking at the briefing, the newly appointed Board Chair, Barcley Onyambu, emphasised the Hospital’s continued dedication to providing quality healthcare to patients and upholding its role as a trusted institution at the heart of Kenya’s healthcare system.

“Leadership confidence is vital to any institution, particularly one central to the health of the community such as The Nairobi Hospital,” said the Chair. “The recent reports on integrity and leadership are isolated and do not detract from our focus. The Board continues to work cohesively, guided by a strong leadership team and a commitment to shared values.”

Adding to the discussion, the Acting CEO, Felix Osano, stated, “Our commitment to excellence remains steadfast. We are taking decisive steps to address challenges and ensure that The Nairobi Hospital remains a beacon of trust and quality healthcare in Kenya.”

The Nairobi Hospital has been making changes in its board of directors in a move aimed at enhancing governance and operational excellence. The newly appointed members bring diverse expertise and fresh perspectives that will strengthen strategic oversight and institutional decision-making.

“We believe that the changes we have made in our board will accelerate our momentum towards institutional excellence,” added Onyambu.

The Board acknowledged the challenges faced in recent months, including the ongoing probe by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). The investigation, which began with a raid at the hospital, has raised concerns about patient confidentiality and the handling of sensitive data. The High Court has since issued orders staying the probe and
granted anticipatory bail to Board members. The hospital has assured stakeholders that it cooperating fully with authorities while safeguarding its patients’ privacy and is coop institutional integrity.

Additionally, the hospital has faced internal wrangles, including disputes over doctor suspensions and governance issues. These challenges have prompted calls for leadership changes and a renewed focus on transparency and collaboration.

Despite these hurdles, the Board remains optimistic about the future. Measures are already in place to safeguard business continuity and ensure that core services and hospital operations remain uninterrupted.

“We recognise that we will be judged by how well we lead the hospital beyond this period. Our dedicated staff continues to deliver uninterrupted and quality service to the public.”

The Board thanked all partners, patrons, staff, and well-wishers for their continued support during the hospital’s difficult period.

“Kenyans faith in this institution has not gone unnoticed. As we navigate this chapter, we pledge to fully repay your trust in us and continue serving you in the best way possible,” Onyambu noted.

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KEWOPA issues critical recommendations to the Technical Working Group on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Femicide

Leah Sankaire, National Chairperson KEWOPA

The Kenya Women Parliamentarians KEWOPA has issued critical recommendations to the Technical Working Group on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Femicide, calling for action to halt the escalating GBV crisis in Kenya. We advocate for a comprehensive review of current GBV law, including consideration of the escalating threats of digital GBV, such as cyberstalking and doxing. We emphasize improving access to justice for survivors of GBV, including simplifying reporting processes, enhancing evidence collection, and accelerating prosecution. We also recommend gender-responsive courts and GBV coordination of data in order to efficiently monitor and counter the issue. KEWOPA proposes operationalizing the Victim Protection Board and Trust Fund, with KEWOPA urging the government to fulfill its role in empowering survivors.

KEWOPA calls for action against life-threatening social norms and increasing misogyny with demands for stronger women empowerment programs and eradication of harmful cultural practices.