Elgeyo Marakwet, Kenya – The Elgeyo Marakwet County Assembly has ushered in a new era of leadership with the election of Hon. Valuer Kibire Lawi as the third Speaker of the Assembly. Her appointment marks a historic moment for the county, reinforcing a commitment to strong, accountable, and visionary leadership in the legislative arm of government.
Hon. Kibire Lawi assumes office at a critical time when the county is striving for greater legislative efficiency, economic empowerment, and enhanced service delivery. Her leadership is expected to bring renewed focus on good governance, transparency, and policy-driven development, ensuring that the Assembly serves as a true representative of the people’s interests.
With extensive experience in public service, lawmaking, and governance, Hon. Kibire Lawi has demonstrated a deep understanding of legislative processes, community needs, and policy formulation. Her election is a testament to the confidence placed in her by fellow leaders and residents, who believe she will effectively steer the Assembly towards progressive decision-making and legislative reforms.
Under her stewardship, the County Assembly is expected to prioritize critical issues, including budget oversight, infrastructure development, devolution efficiency, youth and women empowerment, and sustainable resource management. Her leadership will also be crucial in fostering collaboration between the Assembly and the Executive, ensuring policies that drive economic growth and social development in Elgeyo Marakwet.
Leaders from across the county have expressed their support and optimism, lauding Hon. Kibire Lawi’s election as a step in the right direction. Many believe that her tenure will be marked by inclusive leadership, strengthened public participation, and a commitment to transformative governance.
As she takes the oath of office, Elgeyo Marakwet residents look forward to a dynamic and people-centered Assembly that will work tirelessly to uplift their livelihoods. With Hon. Kibire Lawi at the helm, there is renewed hope for a more responsive, accountable, and development-focused County Assembly.
Congratulations, Hon. Valuer Kibire Lawi! May your tenure be defined by progress, unity, and impactful legislation for the great people of Elgeyo Marakwet.
The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) has officially opened the 15th KEMRI Annual Scientific and Health (KASH) Conference in Nairobi. This year’s conference, themed “Research, Technology, and Innovation for Sustainable Health Systems: A Community-Driven Agenda,” will run from February 11 to 14, 2025. The event brings together leading scientists, policymakers, industry leaders, and healthcare professionals to discuss groundbreaking research and transformative innovations in health sciences.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, KEMRI’s Acting Director General, Prof. Elijah Songok, emphasized the significance of KASH 15 in fostering innovation and strengthening collaborations within the biomedical research space. He noted that the conference serves as a platform to showcase evidence-based solutions that shape resilient and sustainable healthcare systems. In his remarks, Prof. Songok stated that the conference provides an important opportunity for advancing scientific discourse and fostering strategic collaborations that will drive impactful healthcare solutions. He further expressed excitement about the launch of key initiatives that will solidify KEMRI’s role in cutting-edge research and innovation.
One of the major highlights of KASH 15 is the launch of the KEMRI Precision Medicine Centre of Excellence (PM CoE) and the formation of the Precision Medicine Society. These initiatives will play a crucial role in driving research and applications in precision medicine, an area that is rapidly transforming healthcare. Additionally, the unveiling of the PM Kenya Task Force – Think Tank will facilitate thought leadership and collaborative engagement in this dynamic field.
Prof. Songok also announced the official launch of KEMRI’s Strategic Plan 2023-2027, a roadmap that will guide the institution’s growth, research excellence, and impact on healthcare outcomes. The strategic plan is aligned with key national and global frameworks, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Kenya Vision 2030, the African Union Agenda 2063, and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). The plan builds on the successes of the previous 2018-2023 strategic framework and aims to strengthen research for human health, promote innovation and product development, enhance disease surveillance and response, build research capacity, ensure financial sustainability, and improve institutional effectiveness.
While acknowledging the critical role of partnerships in driving research excellence, Prof. Songok expressed his deep appreciation to KEMRI’s partners and collaborators. He highlighted that KEMRI’s progress is deeply rooted in strategic alliances that enhance research capacity and innovation. He reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to continued collaboration with global institutions to advance health outcomes both locally and internationally.
Beyond research, KEMRI remains committed to improving healthcare access and equity. Prof. Songok emphasized the institute’s advocacy for the Social Health Authority (SHA) as a key pillar in achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). He urged stakeholders to support and promote SHA, which ensures that all Kenyans receive quality healthcare without financial hardship.
In his address, Prof. Songok took time to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of KEMRI’s workforce, recognizing the dedication and hard work of its researchers, scientists, and healthcare professionals. He assured them that KEMRI remains steadfast in prioritizing staff welfare, professional growth, and career advancement, as they play a crucial role in shaping the future of health research and innovation in the country.
Prof. Songok also extended his gratitude to the Cabinet Secretary for Health, Dr. Deborah Mulongo Barasa, for her unwavering support and leadership. He acknowledged the KEMRI Board of Directors, led by Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ali, for their strategic guidance. He also commended Dr. Cecilia Mbae and the entire organizing committee for their tireless efforts in delivering a successful KASH 15 conference. Additionally, he expressed appreciation to all participants, researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders whose insights and contributions make the conference a vital platform for advancing health research and innovation.
Prof. Songok encouraged all participants to engage actively, exchange ideas, and explore opportunities for meaningful collaborations. He expressed confidence that the conference would inspire groundbreaking innovations and drive forward KEMRI’s mission of advancing health research for the benefit of humanity. In conclusion, he wished all attendees a productive and insightful conference, emphasizing that KASH 15 stands as a testament to the power of scientific inquiry and collaboration in addressing pressing health challenges.
Vitalys Ongaro, the previous Senior Pastor at the Baraka Altar Church Ministries before its collapse over his involvement in fraud, sex scandals and falsehood has been accused of another fraud by a Nairobi Businessman barely months after another similar allegations.
Ongaro, who doubles as Senator Edwin Sifuna’s buddy has also been faulted by Gen Zs for lying that he will be in the race to replace the embattled Senator who have vowed to teach Senstor Edwin Sifuna a tough lesson.
The businessman has already sued him at the Thika Small claims court approximated to over Sh500,000 and the case is still in court.
The former preacher is also on the spot of using the ‘ threat and defraud’ method which has seen him managing to survive in the city.
” He has no formal employment or activity, he once used the bible to survive but it backfired, he now days use the famous political threat and obtain method to get some coins,” said his close confidant
Further investigations revealed that Ongaro was adviced to pose like a viable candidate for the Senate in Nairobi County but the plan collapsed on arrival.
” He was told by Senator Sifuna to pretend as if he was vying for his position, he then formed some wassap group which collapsed later,” said a source close to him.
Today, sources claim that he uses him goons to share images of his ” purported race” in all wassap groups including the ones outside Nairobi.
Our several efforts to reach Mr.Ongaro were not successfully during our time of publishing.
He failed to respond to our calls few days ago and he has never reached back to us despite us reaching out to him.
Further investigations reveals that, Ongaro, a Senator Edwin Sifuna’s buddy have spent most of their time together with details of their meeting remaining scanty.
Nairobi, Kenya, 7 February 2025: St. George’s University (SGU), Grenada, West Indies, is set to embark on an exciting recruitment tour across Africa, aiming to inspire the next generation of medical professionals. The tour will take place in multiple cities across the continent, offering students the opportunity to explore SGU’s 4-Year Medical Degree (MD) Program and its five-year, six-year, or seven-year MD tracks. During the tour, SGU representatives will provide in-depth information about the university’s modern facilities, distinguished faculty, comprehensive curriculum, and the benefits of studying at SGU, such as hands-on clinical experience and exposure to diverse healthcare systems. SGU provides rolling admissions in January, April, and August, along with a variety of financial aid options and scholarships tailored to meet diverse needs and criteria. The university is dedicated to empowering international students by recognizing academic excellence and fostering success, thereby contributing to a vibrant and diverse medical community. “We are thrilled to bring our MD program to aspiring medical students across Africa,” said Bradley Wade, SGU’s Regional Director of Recruitment for Africa. “Our tracks are designed to provide a robust international medical education, preparing students for successful careers in medicine globally.” Upcoming events in Africa: ● February 7: AECO Fair, Douala ● February 10: Sable International EXPO, Pretoria ● February 11-12: Sable International EXPO, Durban ● February 13-14: Sable International EXPO, Cape Town ● March 2-7: Macpherson EXPO, Harare
The tour welcomes all students aspiring to embark on a career in medicine. Interested students are encouraged to register with the links provided above. For more information on the MD program and tracks available through St. George’s University School of Medicine, visit SGU’s website. –ENDS–
Principal Secretary for the State Department of Shipping and Maritime Affairs, Geoffrey Kaituko, has reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to sustainable maritime practices as he officially opened the Africa Region Green Shipping Conference in Mombasa. Speaking on behalf of Cabinet Secretary Hassan Ali Joho, PS Kaituko emphasized the urgency of implementing the 2023 IMO Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Strategy and advancing the green transition in Africa’s shipping sector.
Kaituko stated that “As the host country, we express our deepest gratitude to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Kingdom of Denmark for their invaluable support in organizing this crucial conference,” “Bringing together delegates from 35 African nations, this platform will foster collaboration and drive Africa’s shipping industry toward a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.”
This conference is a landmark event in Africa’s maritime sector, features keynote addresses from industry leaders, including HE Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General of the IMO, Rikke Wetter Olufsen, Deputy Director General of the Danish Maritime Authority, and Dr. Devotha Mandanda, President of Women in the Maritime Sector in Eastern and Southern Africa (WOMESA). Their discussions will focus on policy frameworks, technological innovations, and capacity-building initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions in the shipping industry.
Maritime transport plays a crucial role in Africa’s economy, PS Kaituko highlighted the importance of integrating green technologies to align the continent with global decarbonization efforts. He called for stronger partnerships between governments, industry players, and international organizations to accelerate Africa’s transition to eco-friendly shipping solutions.
The Africa Region Green Shipping Conference continues in Mombasa, serving as a platform for key stakeholders to strategize on sustainable maritime practices and shape the future of Africa’s shipping industry.
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has welcomed a landmark ruling by Hon. Bahati Mwamuye, which declared the National Police Service’s (NPS) attempt to arbitrarily restrict the right to protest as unconstitutional. The ruling, delivered in response to a controversial press statement issued by the NPS on July 17, 2024, reaffirms the constitutional protections of freedom of assembly and expression.
In a decisive ruling, the court found that the NPS does not have the authority to redefine constitutional rights at its discretion. The judgment dismantles the police narrative that public demonstrations require an identifiable leader, highlighting the potential risks such an imposition would pose. By attempting to impose this requirement, the police not only threatened the liberties of those designated as ‘leaders’ but also discouraged Kenyans from exercising their democratic rights.
Furthermore, the court rejected the notion that constitutional rights could be postponed indefinitely at the police’s discretion. This ruling is a crucial safeguard against the erosion of civil liberties and reinforces the principles of justice and accountability.
The decision sets a significant precedent in Kenya’s human rights landscape, particularly in light of increasing police impunity and disregard for fundamental freedoms. The Law Society of Kenya views this as a step forward in ensuring that public institutions, officeholders, and law enforcement agencies remain accountable to the Constitution and the people they serve.
This judgment serves as a powerful reminder that no entity is above the law, and the fundamental rights of Kenyans cannot be curtailed by arbitrary directives. The Law Society of Kenya remains committed to defending the Constitution and upholding the rule of law in the face of any attempts to undermine democratic freedoms
Kabete residents are set to benefit from improved road infrastructure as the ongoing Cabro paving project from Wangige-Mwimuto Road to ACK Emmanuel Church Kibichiku takes shape. The transformative initiative, championed by Kabete MP Githua Wamacukuru, is part of a broader commitment to enhancing road networks, improving accessibility, and fostering economic growth in the constituency.
The project, once completed, will significantly improve the daily lives of residents, particularly by eliminating dusty and muddy roads, making movement easier for pedestrians, boda boda riders, and motorists. The new paving will also reduce wear and tear on vehicles, lower maintenance costs, and enhance the overall aesthetics of the area, boosting property value and local business opportunities.
For years, residents of Kabete Ward, especially those using the Wangige-Mwimuto route, have struggled with poor road conditions that make transportation difficult, particularly during the rainy seasons. The ongoing paving ensures that students can get to school more comfortably, businesses can operate smoothly, and worshippers at ACK Emmanuel Church Kibichiku can access the church without difficulty.
Additionally, improved roads will enhance connectivity between key commercial hubs, encouraging investment and job creation. Small businesses, traders, and transport operators stand to benefit from increased customer flow and reduced transit times, further stimulating economic activities in the region.
MP Githua Wamacukuru has reiterated his commitment to ensuring infrastructure projects remain a priority in Kabete. This initiative is just one of several development programs aimed at modernizing the constituency, reinforcing his pledge to deliver quality services and improve the welfare of his constituents.
The Principal Secretary for the State Department of Micro, Small, and Enterprises Development, Susan Mangeni, hosted Funyula Constituency MP, Hon. Oundo Mudenyo, alongside the CEO of the Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA) to discuss the renovation of the Funyula Constituency Incubation Hub. This initiative, driven by MSEA, is a key pillar of the BETA Agenda, reinforcing the government’s unwavering commitment to empowering Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through Business Development, Entrepreneurship, Training, and Access to Markets.
The upgraded incubation hub is set to be a game-changer for local entrepreneurs, providing a dynamic space that enhances value addition, fosters innovation, and offers access to critical business support services. With improved infrastructure and modern equipment, artisans, agripreneurs, and small-scale manufacturers will gain the tools and skills necessary to increase productivity and improve competitiveness in their respective industries.
This investment in enterprise development is not only geared toward job creation and increased household incomes but also toward ensuring sustainable economic growth for the people of Funyula and beyond. By strengthening the MSME sector, the government continues to empower local businesses, creating an enabling environment for long-term prosperity.
Principal Secretary for the State Department of Shipping and Maritime Affairs, Hon. Geoffrey Kaituko, today hosted the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Arsenio Dominguez, at his Nairobi office.
PS Kaituko welcomed the Secretary-General ahead of the Green Shipping Conference set to take place in Mombasa. The conference focuses on implementing the 2023 IMO Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Strategy, which seeks to reduce emissions and promote sustainable shipping practices globally.
Speaking during the meeting, PS Kaituko emphasized Kenya’s commitment to environmental sustainability in the maritime sector. He highlighted the country’s role in supporting international efforts to transition to greener shipping technologies and reduce carbon emissions.
“The visit by Secretary-General Dominguez underscores Kenya’s growing influence in global maritime affairs. As a nation, we are dedicated to implementing the 2023 IMO GHG Strategy and ensuring our shipping sector aligns with global sustainability goals,” said PS Kaituko.
Earlier in the day, Hon. PS Kaituko joined fellow Principal Secretaries for their monthly consultative meeting, chaired by the Head of Public Service and Chief of Staff, Felix Koskei, at the Bomas of Kenya. These meetings play a crucial role in driving the Kenya Kwanza government’s agenda, particularly in advancing the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) to uplift the lives of ordinary citizens.
He reiterated President Dr. William Ruto’s call for timely delivery and fulfillment of government commitments to the people of Kenya. “As accounting and authorized officers, we remain steadfast in ensuring these promises are realized, leaving no one behind,” PS Kaituko stated.
The Green Shipping Conference in Mombasa is expected to bring together key maritime stakeholders, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss strategies for a cleaner and more sustainable maritime industry.
Kenya continues to position itself as a key player in global maritime affairs, leveraging its strategic location along the Indian Ocean to champion sustainable shipping policies. PS Kaituko’s engagement with the IMO leadership reaffirms the country’s dedication to promoting climate resilience in the maritime sector.
The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Renson M. Ingonga, CBS, OGW, today appeared before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) for an in-depth examination of the Auditor General’s report for the financial year 2021-2022.
During the session, the DPP addressed various queries raised by the committee regarding expenditure at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP). He lauded the committee for its pivotal role in providing oversight and ensuring the prudent use of public resources.
The scrutiny of the Auditor General’s report is a key aspect of the committee’s mandate to enhance transparency and accountability in the management of public funds. PAC, which is chaired by Butere MP Hon. Tindi Mwale, plays a crucial role in overseeing government financial operations to safeguard taxpayer money from mismanagement and inefficiencies.
Established under National Assembly Standing Order 205, PAC is tasked with reviewing accounts related to the appropriation of funds approved by Parliament for public expenditure. Additionally, the committee examines other financial records and reports deemed relevant for ensuring fiscal discipline within government institutions.
The DPP’s engagement with the committee underscores the importance of collaboration between various arms of government in upholding fiscal responsibility and good governance. His appearance before PAC signifies a commitment to accountability and the effective use of public funds within the ODPP.
The DPP was accompanied by Acting Secretary for Public Prosecutions Alloys Kemo, Deputy Director of Corporate Services Nkaduda Hiribae, Chief Finance Officer Jane Chege, and other senior ODPP officials.
This session marks yet another step towards reinforcing accountability in public institutions, ensuring that financial oversight remains a key pillar in the governance of public resources.
