Author: staff reporter

Kenya’s agricultural sector recently launched a workshop focused on addressing soil acidity and exploring the implementation of a national liming program. This initiative begins with a comprehensive scoping study designed to identify the challenges hindering the commercial rollout of lime, strategize its market introduction, and develop a cohesive, scalable approach to encourage widespread farmer adoption of liming solutions.Mr. Henry Kinyua, Deputy Team Leader of the Kenya Soil Health Development Program, highlighted the urgency of the issue. “Over 65% of our arable land is acidic, preventing crops from absorbing nutrients in the soil and limiting the effectiveness of fertilizers. This leads to reduced yields, worsening our country’s food security situation. However, research has shown that we can reverse soil acidity with lime application.”Christian Witt, Senior Program Officer for Soil Health at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, added that soil acidity is a common issue across East Africa. “Soil acidification is a natural process, exacerbated by rainfall and aging soils. High acidity limits crop growth and reduces fertilizer efficiency. We’re working to find the best combination of public and private sector interventions to tackle soil acidity in Kenya, especially for small-scale farmers, while driving economic growth through agriculture.”Sheila Keino, Executive Director of Sustain Africa, emphasized the significance of this scoping study. “Our goal is to rehabilitate soils across Kenya, starting with a few counties. Over the next three months, we will investigate ways to adjust soil pH and boost farmers’ yields. The Nairobi Declaration, following the Fertilizer and Soil Health Summit in May, emphasized the need to rehabilitate at least 30% of Africa’s soils. Kenya must lead in addressing soil health, and correcting pH through liming is essential.”This workshop, organized by the Government of Kenya, Sustain Africa, and supported by the Gates Foundation, marks the start of a broader initiative to pilot liming on 100,000 acres in two counties severely affected by soil acidity. This ambitious project seeks to restore soil health, improve agricultural productivity, and build a foundation for sustainable farming practices in Kenya.

HE Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka said that the Adani deals not just JKIA, but SHA/SHIF and KETRACO are clouded with secrecy.

“This matter against the Adani Group takeover of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA)is of critical importance. We are dealing with critical infrastructure that touches on the national security and the well-being of the nation-state called Kenya,” Kalonzo said outside Milimani High Court.

Dr Musyoka was leading the team of lawyers Hon Eugene Wamalwa and David Adoli representing Petitioners Tony Gachoka, the Wiper Democratic Movement Party, DAP Kenya, and the Jubilee Party.

“We are determined to fight over this matter not just for the benefit of the present generation but for the future generations of this country,” Musyoka said.

The Matter has been postponed to November 27, 2024.

As a mentor I’ve been privileged to walk with many young people to their career choices,to work to seeing them start families. It’s been an exciting journey working with young people over the years. I’ve also learned a lot from them as much as I’ve guided them and a Godly privilege I’ve had to be a bridge to many As the CEO of any organization, fostering a work environment that is inclusive, collaborative, and adaptive is crucial. Today’s workplace is increasingly dominated by the presence of Gen Z (those born roughly between 1997 and 2012), a generation with unique values, expectations, and working styles. Understanding how to work harmoniously with this group is not just a matter of keeping up with trends—it’s about leveraging their strengths to ensure organizational growth and innovation.Here are some strategies for CEOs to foster a strong, productive relationship with Gen Z employees:1. Embrace Technology and Digital ToolsGen Z is the first generation to grow up fully immersed in the digital world. They are highly proficient with technology and expect seamless digital tools that make work easier and more efficient. As a CEO, embracing new technologies that enable flexibility and ease of communication—such as collaborative platforms (Slack, Microsoft Teams), project management tools (Asana, Trello), and cloud-based software—will help bridge the generational gap. Encouraging the use of these tools in day-to-day operations also allows Gen Z employees to feel that their needs are being met.2. Prioritize Purpose-Driven WorkGen Z values purpose-driven work that aligns with their personal values. They want to make an impact and work for companies that take strong stances on social, environmental, and ethical issues. As a leader, showing genuine commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and aligning business goals with societal impact will resonate with Gen Z employees. By demonstrating how your company’s mission reflects a commitment to making the world a better place, you can inspire engagement and loyalty.3. Offer Flexibility and Work-Life BalanceFlexibility is a key priority for Gen Z employees. They prefer work environments that offer a balance between their professional and personal lives. Remote work, flexible hours, and results-oriented work environments (ROWE) allow them to thrive. As a CEO, you should encourage flexible policies and be open to hybrid work models. Trusting employees to manage their own schedules and performance shows a level of respect that Gen Z highly values.4. Focus on Career Development and GrowthUnlike previous generations that may have stayed in the same job for years, Gen Z is highly focused on career advancement and continuous learning. They expect regular feedback and opportunities for growth. As a leader, it’s important to create a culture where ongoing development is encouraged. This can include mentorship programs, access to training, and clear pathways for promotion. Regular one-on-one meetings to discuss career goals and skill development can also make a significant impact.5. Encourage Open CommunicationGen Z employees value transparency, authenticity, and open communication. They want to feel heard and appreciated by leadership, and they are more likely to thrive in environments where they can freely express their ideas. As a CEO, fostering an open-door policy, hosting regular town hall meetings, and creating channels for feedback (surveys, team discussions) can help cultivate this culture. Moreover, embracing a collaborative leadership style, where feedback is bidirectional, will increase trust and engagement.6. Support Mental Health and Well-BeingGen Z places a strong emphasis on mental health and emotional well-being. They are more likely to be open about their mental health challenges compared to previous generations and expect companies to offer resources to support their well-being. As a CEO, it’s essential to create a supportive and understanding workplace environment. Providing access to mental health resources, offering wellness programs, and fostering a culture of work-life balance are ways to meet Gen Z’s needs.7. Foster Diversity and InclusionGen Z is known for its focus on inclusivity and diversity. They expect their workplace to reflect a variety of perspectives, backgrounds, and identities. As a CEO, prioritizing diversity in hiring, supporting diverse teams, and promoting inclusive practices will resonate deeply with Gen Z. Moreover, promoting equity within the company—whether through pay, opportunity, or recognition—can help foster loyalty and engagement from Gen Z employees.8. Leverage Gen Z’s StrengthsOne of the key strengths of Gen Z is their ability to think creatively and approach problems from new angles. They are also highly adaptable and can learn quickly. CEOs should tap into these strengths by encouraging innovation, empowering Gen Z employees to take ownership of projects, and creating an environment where creative problem-solving is valued. By allowing them to experiment and lead initiatives, you unlock their full potential.9. Provide Instant Feedback and RecognitionUnlike previous generations, who may have been accustomed to annual reviews, Gen Z thrives on instant feedback. They expect recognition and constructive criticism to be given regularly, which helps them improve and stay motivated. As a CEO, instituting a system of ongoing feedback, whether through peer reviews, manager check-ins, or performance tracking tools, can keep Gen Z employees engaged and performing at their best.10. Be Authentic and TransparentGen Z has grown up in an era where authenticity is prized. They are quick to detect disingenuous behavior, and they value honesty from leadership. As a CEO, being transparent about company goals, challenges, and decision-making processes can help build trust and credibility. Being open about both successes and setbacks will help you create an authentic leadership presence that resonates with this generation.ConclusionWorking harmoniously with Gen Z requires a CEO to be adaptable, open-minded, and willing to evolve alongside this new generation of talent. By embracing their values—technology, purpose, flexibility, and inclusivity—and providing opportunities for growth, development, and mental well-being, you can create a thriving workplace culture. Ultimately, a CEO who listens to, understands, and empowers Gen Z will not only foster a positive work environment but also drive innovation and success for the organization as a whole.

By Dianah The Kenyan government, represented by spokesperson Isaac Mwaura, has outlined the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA Plan), a strategic framework aimed at stimulating long-term economic growth, decreasing reliance on foreign debt, and fostering greater social equity across the nation.Launched two years ago, the BETA Plan has been instrumental in addressing Kenya’s pressing economic challenges by prioritizing job creation, equitable income distribution, and overall economic stability. This vision is geared towards building a thriving environment for all Kenyans, with a focus on sustainable growth that benefits every sector and community.One of the cornerstone objectives of the BETA Plan is establishing a sound fiscal policy. Recognizing the risks of growing public debt, the government is dedicated to achieving a more sustainable debt position by shifting the country’s economy from a reliance on foreign borrowing to strengthening domestic revenue sources. To this end, the government is implementing balanced policies that will manage existing debt effectively while reducing dependency on external loans. This shift is also expected to create an economy that’s resilient and better equipped to meet the needs of its citizens.Tax reform is a central pillar of the BETA Plan, aimed at fostering growth, promoting fairness, and safeguarding social equity. New legislation has been introduced to create a fair and equitable tax framework, ensuring that revenue collection is balanced and reflects the contributions of all Kenyans. To address existing fiscal challenges, the government has proposed a justified tax amnesty and reductions in tax expenditures that previously limited revenue available for essential services. This restructured tax approach is expected to enhance the government’s capacity to fund critical development projects while reducing the financial strain on ordinary citizens.Further strengthening the framework for sustainable economic growth, the government has enacted tax amendments to secure timely funding for county governments, promoting greater social and economic welfare at the local level. These provisions are designed to support counties in meeting their service delivery mandates, ensuring that essential services are not interrupted by fiscal shortfalls.To support Kenya’s growing digital economy, the BETA Plan has introduced targeted reforms that expand the digital tax base to include a wider array of services such as ride-hailing, food delivery, freelance, and other professional services. The plan also imposes a “significant economic presence” tax on foreign digital firms operating in Kenya, ensuring these companies contribute fairly to the national economy and aligning Kenya’s tax system with global best practices.In addition to supporting the digital economy, the BETA Plan includes multiple reforms aimed at benefiting employees and businesses. These reforms increase non-taxable benefits, such as meal allowances, while also raising deductions for pension contributions. Tax relief on health and housing contributions has been introduced to improve the disposable income of Kenyan workers and encourage savings for the future. These changes reflect a commitment to enhancing employee welfare while promoting Kenya’s long-term socio-economic goals.Another significant measure is an amendment to the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act, mandating that at least 40% of goods and services procured by the government be sourced from local manufacturers. This policy is expected to invigorate the manufacturing sector, promote job creation, and strengthen Kenya’s reliance on local resources. By fostering a self-sustaining manufacturing ecosystem, the government aims to boost domestic economic growth and support small and medium enterprises.Debt reduction remains a key priority of the BETA Plan. Currently, Kenya’s public debt stands at 68% of GDP, down from a previous high of 73%. Through reforms designed to boost local revenue, the government is committed to gradually reducing foreign debt and aligning Kenya’s fiscal policy with global standards. Recently, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) extended a Ksh. 78 billion facility to Kenya through the Extended Credit Facility (ECF), underscoring international confidence in Kenya’s economic direction. This funding is expected to bolster Kenya’s fiscal stability, enhance foreign exchange reserves, and increase resilience against external economic shocks.Transparency and effective governance are essential components of the BETA Plan. Mwaura emphasized the government’s dedication to using public funds responsibly and transparently, particularly in sectors such as health, housing, and education. A key initiative under this framework is the recent establishment of the Social Health Authority (SHA), which has replaced the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF). Since its implementation, SHA has registered over 14 million Kenyans, providing them with access to quality healthcare without out-of-pocket costs. The government encourages private healthcare providers to join SHA to alleviate the burden on public hospitals, where demand for services has surged.Agriculture, a critical sector of Kenya’s economy, remains a focus of the BETA Plan. In a bid to support farmers and stabilize staple food prices, the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) has set a minimum maize price of Ksh. 3,500 per 90 kg bag. This intervention, combined with the government’s fertilizer subsidy program, aims to protect farmers from fluctuating prices and reduce retail costs for essential items such as maize flour, sugar, and cooking oil. Mwaura noted that this policy, along with the opening of NCPB depots nationwide, demonstrates the government’s commitment to improving farmers’ livelihoods and ensuring food security.In conclusion, the BETA Plan marks a transformative step in Kenya’s economic journey, combining fiscal discipline, equitable tax reforms, and strategic investment in critical sectors. With a focus on economic resilience and sustainable growth, the government aims to create a stable economic environment that benefits all Kenyans and positions Kenya as a stronger, more self-reliant nation.

The denials by the Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service Douglas Kanja that the police are not behind the abductions, disappearances and killings of young Kenyans has been met with disbelief and anger by the Opposition.

The Leader of the People’s Loyal Opposition Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka, said that Kanja should “stop misleading Kenyans about abductions, disappearances and killings of young Kenyans.” He further called for accountability, including the swift immediate arrest and arraignment of police officers in courts

Dr Musyoka was speaking during the burial service of Baba Mwalimu Cllr. Eliud Josia Marende at Mumboha Secondary School in Luanda, Vihiga County. The late Luanda Ward Councillor was the father of Speaker Emeritus Rt Hon. Kenneth Marende.

DAP K PL Hon Eugene Wamalwa, former Kiambu County Governor Ferdinand ‘Babayao’ Waititu and Jubilee Party SG Hon Jeremiah Kioni, former Nairobi City Council Clerk Philip Kisia accompanied Dr Musyoka.

Cabinet Secretary for Co-operatives and MSMEs Wycliffe Oparanya is also present.

Dr Musyoka who said that the winds of change were blowing across Africa also called for accountability, including the swift immediate arrest and arraignment of police officers in courts.

The denials by the Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service Douglas Kanja that the police are not behind the abductions, disappearances and killings of young Kenyans has been met with disbelief and anger by the Opposition.

The Leader of the People’s Loyal Opposition Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka, said that Kanja should “stop misleading Kenyans about abductions, disappearances and killings of young Kenyans.” He further called for accountability, including the swift immediate arrest and arraignment of police officers in courts

Dr Musyoka was speaking during the burial service of Baba Mwalimu Cllr. Eliud Josia Marende at Mumboha Secondary School in Luanda, Vihiga County. The late Luanda Ward Councillor was the father of Speaker Emeritus Rt Hon. Kenneth Marende.

DAP K PL Hon Eugene Wamalwa, former Kiambu County Governor Ferdinand ‘Babayao’ Waititu and Jubilee Party SG Hon Jeremiah Kioni, former Nairobi City Council Clerk Philip Kisia accompanied Dr Musyoka.

Cabinet Secretary for Co-operatives and MSMEs Wycliffe Oparanya is also present.

Dr Musyoka who said that the winds of change were blowing across Africa also called for accountability, including the swift immediate arrest and arraignment of polic

A philanthropic Kenyan gifted with a heart of gold – Mr. Moses Mwenda, is a believer in the power of the people. Mr. Mwenda had the chance to meet with one of his amazing fan who displayed a portrait of him on his car. Mr. Mwenda, in a show of humility for that honor, noted: “Mr. Ras, wow. I’m honestly speechless. Your love and support means so much to me, and I cannot thank you enough for such an amazing gesture. It truly humbles me to know that, the little thing I do to the community really resonates with you this much. Kee driving with pride, and know that you’ve got my deepest gratitude and support. Youre awesome, great man Ras and may Almighty God bless your hustle.

The Departmental Committee on Environment Forestry and Mining today reviewed the new legislative proposal that proposes the establishment of the Environmental Professionals Institute of Kenya, 2024. The Bill sponsored by Hon. George Gachagua (Ndaragwa) principally aims at providing a legal framework for the establishment of an environmental professional body that will register, regulate and develop the standards and practice of environmental professionals. Further, the Bill aims at promoting research, exchange of information and knowledge in the environmental practice and related matters through coordinated relationships with the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) and other national and international institutions. Through a brief on the legislative proposal, the Parliamentary legal office however brought to the attention of Committee Members the incorporated amendments; that the title of the Bill was amended to include the word “Professionals” to differentiate the Bill as a proposed Act of Parliament to regulate professionals. The amendment has since been incorporated in the Bill. Committee Members led by Hon. Charles Kamuren (Baringo South -Vice Chairperson) commended the Bill terming it timely and necessary to streamline the environmental sector. “Just like doctors, nurses, engineers and other professionals, the purpose is to come up with a legal document that will be able to identify and regulate environmental professionals. Apart from earning the Government revenue it will give the Government and other institutions a clear way of approaching the sector”, stated Hon. Kamuren. “I think this is one of the Bills which if this Committee sees through to its enactment, will earn us a name that during our term, the Institute came to life. We have many issues around Climate Change and carbon credits that require a lot of input from environmentalists. This could be a good platform to address issues of environmental impact assessment”, observed Hon. Joseph Emathe (Turkana Central). The Committee is set to conduct public participation on the legislative proposal after it is introduced in the House,where different stakeholders will be share their views.

On security matters our Newdesk had a conversation with a Security Consultant. Dr Peter Mwangi the CEO Guardnow security Group, a provider of security services to malls that. Guardnow runs on the mantra of serving and protecting.To Guardnow service and protecting people comes first,which is evident from the several years of experience in private security industry. A professional security company that’s licensed to offer security services in Kenya.
Dr Mwangi shared lessons from the 2013 westgate attack highlighting lessons learned through his highly trained teams that service the Malls that work with Guardnow security Group.

During this long school holiday it’s obvious families will be flocking to the Malls for lunches or just to stroll on lazy days.

Dr Mwangi said he’s particularly concerned by the public influx to malls on Sundays and public holidays. People need to learn how to look over their shoulders and watch their backs. The Westgate attack is a lifetime tragedy to learn from. Guardnow security group CEO highlighted a few lessons about the Westgate Mall attack in 2013.The CEO Guardnow security Group highlighted several critical lessons for mall security from terrorist attacks, to petty thieves and con people, he shared 7 tips on mall safety for Kenyans.

The CEO Guardnow who is trained on terrorism and counter terrorism practices and safety measures on emergencies had a few tips to share on Mall safety.

Access Control: Implement stricter entry protocols, including screening and identification checks, to limit unauthorized access.

Emergency Response Plans: Develop and regularly update comprehensive emergency response plans. Conduct drills to ensure staff and security personnel are prepared for various scenarios.

Training and Coordination: Provide extensive training for security staff and ensure effective communication and coordination with local law enforcement near Malls.

Surveillance and Monitoring: Enhance surveillance systems with advanced technology, such as real-time monitoring and analytics, to detect suspicious behavior quickly.

Public Awareness: Educate shoppers on recognizing and reporting suspicious activity to create a vigilant community.

Rapid Incident Response: Establish clear protocols for rapid response to incidents, including designated safe zones and clear evacuation routes.

Community Engagement: Foster relationships with local authorities and emergency services for collaborative response and preparedness.

Dr Mwangi advised parents to always accompany their children during their games in Malls and to the washrooms. Parents should be vigilant to avoid losing their children or suspicious people introducing themselves to their children.
If one is accompanied by their helper,the helper needs to be trained on gazing and forgetting children. Parents also need to allow them to enjoy the city experience without expecting they can be vigilant on taking care of children,in malls Parents need to offer a third eye without assuming the helper is caring for children.

With aged parents always walk along them to avoid the masses hitting them as they walk swiftly.

In large malls, always agree in case of an emergency where to converge and who to call.

In case of an emergency your safety comes first do not stop for any personal belongings advices Dr Mwangi.

Children also need to be taught how to call for help and know offhead their parents contacts incase they miss out on each other..some Malls are so huge its important even to identify where one has parked their cars,the route to exit.

Implementing these lessons can significantly improve the security posture of malls and similar public spaces.

He advices its important for everyone to be responsible of their own security and not to be careless about safety.

Article by
Dr Peter Mwangi
CEO Guardnow security Group

By Winton zak
The advocacy group Non communicable diseases alliance of Kenya (NCDA-K),led by its executive director Dr karekezi has today called on the social health authority to streamline the program specifically to cater for patients who suffer from non communicable diseases.”The government should have sought out the teething problems before enrollment of the program”she added.She expressed her fears that the SHIF package would not benefit patients with non communicable diseases who are forced to dig into their pockets.d
Dr gikonyo who is the vice chair of NCDA-K reiterated that the social health authority should make the overseas treatment to be available for patients.Speaking after a meeting with government ministry officials led by the Cs Debra mulongo the NCDA-K officials said they tabled their grievances and hoped for the implementation of SHif to be straightened to suit the interests for patients.The government also urged them to be good ambassadors of the SHIF.They urged the government to streamline the services for patients to experience one stop services.Lastly they said they will continue holding the government into account for the better health service for patients.