Nairobi, Kenya – The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) Energy, Climate Change, and ESG Committee held a strategic meeting today with the Executive Dean of Strathmore Business School, Dr. Caesar Mwangi, and the institution’s leadership to discuss potential areas of collaboration.
Hon. Faith Mwaura, a key figure in the discussions, emphasized the importance of partnerships in fostering sustainable business practices and addressing climate change challenges. The deliberations focused on key areas such as Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) training, research partnerships, and adaptation initiatives aimed at enhancing corporate sustainability and resilience.
“This engagement marks a significant step toward strengthening ESG compliance and climate adaptation strategies within the business community,” Hon. Mwaura stated. “By working together with academic institutions like Strathmore Business School, we can develop impactful training programs and research-driven solutions to help businesses navigate the evolving sustainability landscape.”
The meeting reflects KNCCI’s ongoing commitment to promoting climate-conscious business practices and equipping enterprises with the knowledge and tools necessary to integrate ESG principles into their operations. As climate concerns continue to shape global and local economic policies, such collaborations will be instrumental in driving innovation and sustainable growth.
Further engagements between KNCCI and Strathmore Business School are expected as both institutions refine their joint strategies to support businesses in Kenya and beyond.
KCB Foundation and Webuye East Constituency have teamed up to support the youth through a KSh. 5 million job creation programme on a 1:1 ratio with each contributing KSh. 2.5 million towards the same.
The programme will see KCB Foundation introduce its 2Jiajiri technical skills and job creation initiative in the constituency, aimed at accelerating technical and vocational skills training as well micro-enterprises development.
Today, 100 youth have been commissioned to receive National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) certified technical skills training at Matili Technical Training Institute followed by business development training to nurture and grow micro-enterprises locally.
This initiative will be implemented in collaboration with the Webuye East National Government-Constituency Development Fund, kicking off a transformative journey towards self-reliance and economic prosperity.
Notably, the initiative targets 70% of its participants to be young women, reflecting the program’s commitment to inclusivity and recognising the pivotal role women play in driving social and economic change.
Speaking during the commissioning, Deputy Chief of Party at KCB Foundation, Bernard Barasa, expressed optimism about the partnership as it will spur youth creativity and position them to become critical levers for sustained economic development.
“At KCB Foundation, we are passionate about creating opportunities for the youth to lead dignified lives and dent the youth unemployment challenge. We focus on MSMEs and youth development through technical skills, as these skills have high demand and multiplier effect in the marketplace. Our goal is to catalyse the informal sector by creating job opportunities and growing micro enterprises at grassroot levels,” said Barasa.
On his part, Webuye East Member of Parliament, Hon. Martin Wanyonyi, hailed the 2Jiajiri programme as a transformative step towards empowering youths and improving their livelihoods.
“As a constituency, we are committed to creating opportunities for young people to access dignified work, and this partnership with the KCB Foundation will play an integral role in denting youth unemployment in Webuye East”, Hon. Wanyonyi Martin said.
KCB Foundation and Mastercard Foundation have been partnering with counties, the National Government, and other stakeholders in Kenya to implement the Young Africa Works (YAW) program, which trains and equips youths with relevant technical skills, preparing them to thrive in the job market.
Each training lasts for six months, consisting of three months in the classroom and three months of industrial attachment to address the technical skills gaps.
Upon completing their attachment, the trainees are channelled into existing employment opportunities. Those aspiring to establish micro-enterprises receive comprehensive support from KCB Bank through KCB Foundation. This includes access to Business Development Services (BDS), trade-specific starter toolkits and working capital to kick-start their ventures successfully.
Since 2016, the 2Jiajiri programme has created 150,555 jobs and trained 35,195 youth in various technical skills countrywide. Currently, 10,954 youth are under the mentorship wing with the KCB Foundation business development officer. KCB Bank has disbursed 267 million loans to support youth-owned enterprises and issued 2,225 start-up toolkits (tools for trade) to 2Jiajiri participants, with 6,535 businesses trained on financial literacy.
Principal Secretary for Housing, Charles Hinga, has shared valuable wisdom on the importance of planning for homeownership as part of Kenya’s ongoing Affordable Housing Program (AHP). His message is a timely reminder of the numerous benefits that come with owning a home compared to renting, and how this decision can significantly impact one’s financial well-being and overall life stability.
One of the most compelling reasons to own a home is that you’re contributing to your own asset rather than someone else’s. When you rent a property, your monthly payments are effectively helping to pay off someone else’s mortgage. In contrast, when you own your home, every payment you make towards your mortgage is a contribution to building equity in your property. Over time, this equity grows, increasing your wealth and financial security.
Renting comes with its own set of challenges. One of the primary issues renters faces is the uncertainty of rising rents. This unpredictability makes it harder to budget effectively and plan for the future. Homeownership, however, offers stability. With a fixed-rate mortgage, such as the one provided under the Affordable Housing Program, you can enjoy predictable monthly housing costs, helping you plan your finances with confidence.
Another key benefit of owning a home is the freedom to personalize your living space. Renters are often limited in what they can do to their homes, unable to make significant changes or improvements without seeking permission. However, when you own your home, you have the freedom to modify, renovate, or decorate as you please, making your home truly your own, reflecting your style and needs.
Additionally, homes historically appreciate in value, making homeownership a sound long-term investment. This appreciation means that your property could be worth more in the future, giving you the option to sell it for a profit or use it as collateral for future financial ventures.
Owning a home also brings with it tax advantages. Homeowners may be eligible for deductions on mortgage interest, property taxes, and potential capital gains exemptions when selling their primary residence. These tax benefits can substantially reduce your overall tax liability, offering financial relief and adding to the overall value of owning a home.
Beyond financial benefits, homeownership often provides a stronger sense of stability and community. As a homeowner, you’re more likely to build lasting relationships with your neighbors and contribute to the growth and development of your local area. You’re also more invested in maintaining and improving your home, which ultimately benefits the entire community.
When you own your home, you are in charge of the decisions. You no longer have to seek permission from a landlord for changes, and you can avoid the uncertainty of lease renewals or terminations. Homeownership provides autonomy and control over your living environment, empowering you to create a home that suits your unique preferences.
Finally, there is an undeniable pride in owning a home. It symbolizes your hard work, dedication, and success. Homeownership is a tangible accomplishment that renting simply cannot provide, offering a deep sense of achievement and fulfillment.
For those ready to begin their journey toward homeownership, the Affordable Housing Program offers a perfect opportunity to make this dream a reality.
With the wisdom shared by Hon. Charles Hinga, it’s clear that owning a home is not just a financial decision, but a step toward stability, pride, and long-term prosperity. Whether you’re looking for a place to call your own or seeking to build wealth through real estate, homeownership is a key element of building a secure future.
Principal Secretary for Housing, Charles Hinga, has shared valuable wisdom on the importance of planning for homeownership as part of Kenya’s ongoing Affordable Housing Program (AHP). His message is a timely reminder of the numerous benefits that come with owning a home compared to renting, and how this decision can significantly impact one’s financial well-being and overall life stability.
One of the most compelling reasons to own a home is that you’re contributing to your own asset rather than someone else’s. When you rent a property, your monthly payments are effectively helping to pay off someone else’s mortgage. In contrast, when you own your home, every payment you make towards your mortgage is a contribution to building equity in your property. Over time, this equity grows, increasing your wealth and financial security.
Renting comes with its own set of challenges. One of the primary issues renters faces is the uncertainty of rising rents. This unpredictability makes it harder to budget effectively and plan for the future. Homeownership, however, offers stability. With a fixed-rate mortgage, such as the one provided under the Affordable Housing Program, you can enjoy predictable monthly housing costs, helping you plan your finances with confidence.
Another key benefit of owning a home is the freedom to personalize your living space. Renters are often limited in what they can do to their homes, unable to make significant changes or improvements without seeking permission. However, when you own your home, you have the freedom to modify, renovate, or decorate as you please, making your home truly your own, reflecting your style and needs.
Additionally, homes historically appreciate in value, making homeownership a sound long-term investment. This appreciation means that your property could be worth more in the future, giving you the option to sell it for a profit or use it as collateral for future financial ventures.
Owning a home also brings with it tax advantages. Homeowners may be eligible for deductions on mortgage interest, property taxes, and potential capital gains exemptions when selling their primary residence. These tax benefits can substantially reduce your overall tax liability, offering financial relief and adding to the overall value of owning a home.
Beyond financial benefits, homeownership often provides a stronger sense of stability and community. As a homeowner, you’re more likely to build lasting relationships with your neighbors and contribute to the growth and development of your local area. You’re also more invested in maintaining and improving your home, which ultimately benefits the entire community.
When you own your home, you are in charge of the decisions. You no longer have to seek permission from a landlord for changes, and you can avoid the uncertainty of lease renewals or terminations. Homeownership provides autonomy and control over your living environment, empowering you to create a home that suits your unique preferences.
Finally, there is an undeniable pride in owning a home. It symbolizes your hard work, dedication, and success. Homeownership is a tangible accomplishment that renting simply cannot provide, offering a deep sense of achievement and fulfillment.
For those ready to begin their journey toward homeownership, the Affordable Housing Program offers a perfect opportunity to make this dream a reality.
With the wisdom shared by Hon. Charles Hinga, it’s clear that owning a home is not just a financial decision, but a step toward stability, pride, and long-term prosperity. Whether you’re looking for a place to call your own or seeking to build wealth through real estate, homeownership is a key element of building a secure future.
In an era where financial inclusion is crucial for economic growth, Kenya’s leading Credit only microfinance Jijenge Credit ltd has emerged as a game-changer in the microfinance sector. Jijenge Credit has built a solid reputation by providing swift and ethical financial solutions to millions of clients across Kenya, Sudan, and Tanzania as a non-deposit-taking Microfinance Lending Institution. With its headquarters at Town House, Nairobi, the institution continues to play a pivotal role in bridging the financial gap for individuals and businesses needing quick and reliable credit.
Recognized as one of the licensed digital credit providers by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), Jijenge Credit operates with transparency and integrity. This accreditation follows growing concerns over unregulated lenders who have been accused of charging excessive interest rates and employing aggressive debt collection practices. Unlike such firms, Jijenge Credit adheres to the highest ethical standards, ensuring that fair lending practices, honesty, and social responsibility remain at the core of its operations.
A key pillar of the company’s service delivery is its commitment to data protection and customer privacy. Adhering to the Data Protection Act, Jijenge Credit guarantees that all customer information is handled with the utmost confidentiality. The law imposes strict conditions on the processing of personal data, ensuring that consent is always obtained before any information is used. This commitment to professionalism has earned the institution the trust of thousands of clients who rely on its services for financial empowerment.
Jijenge Credit is not just a lender—it is a financial partner dedicated to empowering businesses and individuals to achieve their goals. Whether it is quick loans for entrepreneurs, personal financing, or emergency funds, the company has streamlined its processes to ensure that clients access funds within an hour. By eliminating bureaucratic hurdles, Jijenge Credit ensures that financial solutions are not just available but also affordable and accessible to all.
As one of the first licensed digital credit providers in Kenya, Jijenge Credit is redefining the microfinance landscape by offering fast, transparent, and customer-friendly lending services. With a strong emphasis on integrity, professionalism, and financial empowerment, the institution remains committed to helping individuals and businesses thrive in a competitive economy.
Water is life, and no community should be without it—this is the guiding principle behind Senator Allan Chesang’s unwavering commitment to improving water access in Trans Nzoia County. Through the Allan Chesang Foundation, the Senator is turning this principle into reality by bringing clean, reliable water to communities that need it the most.
In a significant milestone, the foundation successfully drilled a water borehole at Maridadi Primary School in Kwanza Constituency, a move that marks a key step towards addressing the county’s water challenges. This new source of water will not only benefit the school but will also serve as a vital resource for the surrounding community.
As Chesang recently put it, “Water is life, and every community deserves access to this essential resource.” His vision goes beyond just providing a single borehole; his goal is to bring water to every ward in Trans Nzoia County. Whether it’s for schools, homes, or businesses, ensuring that water is accessible and reliable for all remains at the heart of his mission.
While he may not always be physically present in every community, Senator Chesang’s determination ensures that no one is left behind. His leadership continues to demonstrate that transformative change is possible when we work together as a community.
Through initiatives like this, the Senator is making an indelible impact on Trans Nzoia County, one borehole at a time. Each borehole drilled brings clean water, but it also brings hope, opportunity, and a better quality of life for all. As he continues to push for sustainable solutions to the water crisis, Senator Chesang remains a true champion for the people, proving that leadership that cares can create lasting change.
The relentless efforts of Kajiado South MP Samuel Parashina to have the Ilasit-Taveta road constructed have finally borne fruit. The legislator has been at the forefront of lobbying the national government to fast-track the project, recognizing its crucial role in unlocking the economic potential of the region.
On Friday, the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) Director General, Eng. Kungu Ndungu, officially handed over the Ilasit-Njukini-Taveta road site to Sinohydro Corporation Ltd for maintenance, paving the way for construction, which is set to commence in mid-February 2025.
The 66.5-kilometer road, which stretches from Taveta to Ilasit, will be completed within 30 months under an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) arrangement. The project will feature a 7-meter-wide carriageway with 1.5-meter shoulders, new bridges, box culverts, street lighting in major centers, and improved junctions to enhance accessibility and safety.
Once completed, the road is expected to significantly boost economic activities, particularly in agriculture and tourism. Farmers will benefit from improved transportation of produce to markets, while the tourism sector will gain from better access to key destinations near the Tanzanian border.
MP Parashina has reiterated his commitment to ensuring the timely implementation of the project, emphasizing its transformative impact on local communities. “This road is a game-changer for the people of Kajiado South. It will not only improve connectivity but also stimulate economic growth by facilitating trade and investment,” he stated.
The Ilasit-Taveta road construction marks a major milestone in infrastructure development in the region, aligning with the government’s broader agenda of enhancing road networks to spur economic development. Residents eagerly anticipate the project’s completion, which will open new opportunities for business, tourism, and improved livelihoods.
When it comes to leadership that truly uplifts communities, few are as dedicated and impactful as Simon Ng’ang’a King’ara, the Member of Parliament for Ruiru Constituency. Today, his commitment to empowering the youth took center stage as the Simon Ng’ang’a King’ara Foundation threw its full support behind a remarkable initiative—the Mr and Mrs Ruiru Auditions.
Held at the Kahawa Wendani Hall in Kahawa Wendani Ward, the event saw passionate youths come together to showcase their talents in the hope of reaching the next level of this exciting competition. But it wasn’t just about the competition—it was about creating a space where young people could freely express themselves, connect, and work towards honing their skills for the future.
Simon Ng’ang’a King’ara, through his foundation, was on the ground today, showing his unyielding support for the local talent. By investing time and resources in such events, he continues to nurture the next generation of leaders, performers, and change-makers. His presence, energy, and encouragement at such gatherings reflect his unwavering belief in the potential of Ruiru’s youth.
“Talent is everywhere, but opportunity is often scarce. This is why we need to create platforms that allow our young people to shine,” said King’ara as he mingled with the participants, applauding their courage and determination.
The auditions were not only a celebration of talent but also a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives. King’ara’s support highlighted his dedication to fostering an environment where youth empowerment is at the forefront. It is through these kinds of initiatives that the future leaders of Ruiru, and indeed the nation, will emerge.
Congratulations are in order for all those who qualified for the next round of the competition. Your hard work and passion have set the stage for even greater things to come. And to Simon Ng’ang’a King’ara—this is just one of the many ways you’re proving why you’re not just a good man, but a great leader.
The State Department for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) has intensified efforts to implement the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) program, aiming to formalize skills acquired through experience.
In a consultative meeting held at Kabete National Polytechnic, key stakeholders convened to strategize on rolling out the initiative. The meeting brought together Stanley Maindi, Director of the RPL Delivery Unit, Dr. Patrick Muchemi, Chief Principal of Kabete National Polytechnic, and Arch. Wambua Nyamai HSC, CEO of the Kenya National Federation of Juakali Associations (KNFJKA). Also present was Miss Monday Wa Kyendo, the Kabete National Polytechnic RPL Coordinator.
One of the key issues discussed was the role of KNFJKA in mobilizing workers from the informal sector to access RPL assessment and certification. The RPL framework is designed to recognize and validate skills acquired through non-formal and informal learning, enabling artisans, technicians, and other professionals to gain formal certification without undergoing traditional academic training.
Kabete National Polytechnic, accredited as a Qualifications Awarding Institution (QAI) by the Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA), serves as the National Centre for RPL. It also houses the newly established RPL Delivery Unit, operating under the State Department for TVET.
The unit is tasked with providing policy direction, oversight, and an enabling environment for the implementation of RPL. Its key objectives include ensuring quality, transparency, effective coordination, and harmonization of the RPL system to align with national social and economic policies.
By strengthening the RPL framework, the government aims to empower skilled individuals, particularly those in the informal sector, by enhancing their employability and professional recognition. The initiative is expected to bridge the gap between experience-based skills and formal qualifications, fostering economic growth and social transformation.
With TVET institutions playing a critical role in implementing RPL, the State Department for TVET remains committed to ensuring that skilled Kenyans receive the recognition they deserve, enabling them to access better employment opportunities and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development.
The Kenya Tobacco and Nicotine Control (KTNTC) Tobacco Control and Health Promotion Alliance has kicked off 2025 with a renewed commitment to strengthening anti-tobacco advocacy, reflecting on past achievements, and strategizing for emerging challenges in the fight against tobacco and nicotine addiction.
During a strategy session held earlier this year, KTNTC reviewed its milestones in tobacco control and mapped out new approaches to address the rising threats posed by nicotine products, including vapes and nicotine pouches. The alliance reaffirmed its dedication to pushing for stronger taxation measures and policies that will protect Kenyans from the harmful effects of tobacco and nicotine consumption.
A key focus of the discussions was the need for increased taxation on vapes and nicotine pouches to curb their growing popularity, especially among the youth. KTNTC emphasized that higher taxes on these products would make them less accessible, reducing consumption rates and mitigating health risks associated with nicotine addiction.
“We must remain vigilant and proactive in addressing the evolving landscape of tobacco and nicotine consumption. Strengthening taxation and regulatory frameworks is crucial in safeguarding public health and preventing a new generation from falling into nicotine addiction,” KTNTC representatives stated.
The alliance also called for increased collaboration between government agencies, policymakers, and public health stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of tobacco control measures. Advocacy efforts will focus on raising awareness about the dangers of nicotine products, pushing for stricter regulations, and ensuring that Kenya remains committed to global tobacco control goals.
As KTNTC embarks on its 2025 agenda, its efforts will continue to shape policies that prioritize public health and reinforce Kenya’s leadership in tobacco control within the region.
