Author: staff reporter

Greenpeace Africa, the Kenya Peasants League, and BIBA Kenya have welcomed the recent landmark ruling by the Court of Appeal, which temporarily halts the importation of genetically modified (GM) crops into Kenya. Speaking at a joint press conference in Nairobi, the organizations lauded the decision as a critical victory for farmers’ rights and food sovereignty, especially as the country approaches a crucial seed litigation case in May.

Elizabeth Atieno, Greenpeace Africa’s Food Sovereignty Campaign Lead, praised the ruling as a triumph for Kenyan farmers and consumers, emphasizing that the temporary halt on GMO imports provides an opportunity to reassess agricultural policies, promote agroecological solutions, and focus on securing strong legal protections for farmer-managed seed systems in the upcoming May litigation.

“This case is not just about farmers; it affects every Kenyan. When farmers lose control over seeds, we all lose. We lose access to diverse, healthy, and affordable food. We lose our ability to adapt to climate change. We lose the rich biodiversity that has sustained our food systems for centuries,” added Atieno.

Ann Maina of the Biodiversity and Biosafety Association (BIBA Kenya) emphasized the threat posed by corporate seed monopolies, stating that the struggle for seed sovereignty is a battle against corporate control over livelihoods and food systems. She expressed that the decision is not only a victory for farmers but also a reaffirmation of their rights to save and exchange seeds without interference. Maina stressed that farmers must have control over their seeds, which form the essential foundation of the food supply, and noted that farmer-managed seed systems have sustained communities for generations. She warned against allowing corporate interests to monopolize seed heritage and compromise food sovereignty.

“GMOs are presented as a quick-fix solution to hunger, but in reality, they create more problems than they claim to solve. They are not introduced in isolation; they come with a reliance on chemical pesticides and fertilizers, creating a cycle where farmers must continuously invest in costly inputs to maintain yields,” warned Maina.

Cidi Otieno from the Kenya Peasants League highlighted the significance of the upcoming case, stating that the seed litigation case in May will be crucial in determining the future of Kenya’s food systems. He explained that they are fighting not only against GMOs but also for the protection of indigenous seed varieties, farmers’ rights to save and exchange seeds, and the preservation of agricultural biodiversity. He emphasized that the struggle is about securing food sovereignty for generations to come.

A farmer representative expressed concerns, stating that farmers are the custodians of seeds and food systems and warning that if laws criminalize their right to save and exchange seeds, they will be forced into permanent dependency on multinational corporations. The representative emphasized that farmer-managed seed systems are climate-resilient, cost-effective, and culturally significant, and called for laws that recognize and protect them.

The conference highlighted agroecology as a viable, farmer-centered alternative to GMOs. Advocates stressed the importance of agroecology in promoting biodiversity, restoring soil health, and enhancing climate resilience while safeguarding farmers’ rights to seed sovereignty.

Earlier this month, the Court of Appeal issued an order blocking the government from taking any further action to permit the importation of genetically modified (GMO) crops and foods into the country.

Appellate judges Patrick Kiage, Weldon Korir, and Joel Ngugi issued the order following an appeal filed by advocate Paul Mwangi and the Kenya Peasants League.

BY TUM DAVID

A two day day irrigation stakeholder conference takes place in Nairobi capital where delegates gathered at the KICC for the ambitious launch of the National Irrigation Sector Investment Plan ( NISIP). The theme of the plan launch conference is: Excelerating investment in irrigation for good security and social economic empowerment. The launch seem to echo good times ahead full of food security in the country.

The plenary had one constant message that irrigation is what is going to make Kenya great. Speaker after speaker lauded the plan launch which they said was timely and that it has come at a better time saying that Kenya without irrigation will never feed itself.

The PS state department of Irrigation, Ephantus Mburu told the press that since their coming into operation, currently there are 74,7000 acres under irrigation in the country. He said out of that about 83,000 acres were done under the last 2 years and that it has led into increase in production most specifically on the rice value chain. The PS also asserts that the launch of NISIP intends to put additional 1 million hectares under irrigation to be able to make at least 50% of potential land under irrigation in the country.

Currently, because of additional acreages under irrigation especially in the public schemes, rice production has increased to 293,000 metric tones which is an increase of over 50%.

The launch is an engaging event bringing together farmers, irrigation water users association( IUWAS), Aggregators, large corporate farmers, Digital platform companies, policy makers, research institutions among others.

In a significant step towards strengthening gender equality in agriculture, Oxfam International and its partners have launched a Gender Analysis Report for the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP). The report, developed in collaboration with various stakeholders, aims to address the persistent gender disparities that hinder women’s participation and benefits in the agricultural sector.

The launch, held on Wednesday in Nairobi, brought together representatives from the government, non-governmental organizations, and international partners to discuss the challenges faced by women in agriculture and the strategies needed to overcome them.

Jackline Makokha, Director of the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate at Kenya’s State Department for Gender and Affirmative Action, emphasized the critical role women play in agriculture. “Agriculture contributes significantly to Kenya’s GDP, and women form a substantial part of the labor force. Yet, they continue to face systemic, cultural, and economic barriers that limit their access to resources and decision-making,” she said.

According to Makokha, despite existing policies promoting gender equality, women often lack ownership of agricultural land and access to financial resources. These challenges are compounded by cultural norms that prioritize men in decision-making processes and economic opportunities. Makokha highlighted the need for effective implementation of affirmative action policies that support women’s engagement in agricultural enterprises and government procurement opportunities.

The CAADP program, launched in January 2025, marks a new 10-year development strategy from 2026 to 2035, aiming to enhance food security and sustainable agriculture in Africa. Speaking at the event, Wanjiku Wanjohi, Senior Gender Advisor at Oxfam, underscored the need for a gender-responsive framework aligned with continental commitments, such as the Maputo Protocol and the African Union Gender and Women’s Strategy.

“We have noted a misalignment between pan-African gender perspectives and the CAADP framework. Our goal is to ensure evolving issues affecting African women in agriculture are addressed, including the impacts of the climate crisis and limited access to productive assets,” Wanjohi stated.

She stressed that while progress has been made in recognizing gender issues at the policy level, there is a need to move beyond rhetoric. “African governments must budget for gender and establish dedicated funding to support activities that empower women in agriculture,” she added.

The Gender Analysis Report also highlights the devastating impact of climate change on African women farmers. As central figures in agricultural value chains, women not only produce food but also play roles as retailers, distributors, and consumers. However, climate-related challenges have compromised food quality and increased vulnerabilities, particularly when women lack access to land and water resources.

The development of the report represents a collective effort involving grassroots women’s rights organizations, international development partners, and various regional networks. “It’s not just a single voice from one region; it’s a comprehensive agenda that takes into account perspectives from across Africa,” Wanjohi remarked.

Other stakeholders represented during the launch included, the African Kilimanjaro Women Farmers Forum, the African Food Systems Parliamentary Network, ActionAid International, the African Women’s Development and Communication Network (FEMNET), and the SDG2 Advocacy Hub.

According to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the agriculture sector is a major employer of women globally–with women constituting over 50% of the agricultural labor force in many countries–making them critical to the production of both food and cash crops, and to the health of rural economies overall.

Kenya’s tourism sector received a boost as the Viking Sky cruise ship docked at the Port of Mombasa for a three-day visit, carrying 845 passengers and 4\69 crew members from across the world.

Speaking during the official welcoming ceremony, Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano extended a warm reception to the visitors, emphasizing Kenya’s rich cultural heritage and diverse tourism offerings.

“In this part of the world, we say ‘Mgeni njoo, mwenyeji apone,’ which means visitors bring a sense of goodwill to their hosts. Feel most welcome!” Miano said.

The Viking Sky, flying the Norwegian flag, follows closely on the heels of another Norwegian cruise ship, the Norwegian Dawn, which docked in Mombasa just a month ago. Miano noted that the presence of these vessels underscores Kenya’s growing appeal as a cruise tourism destination.

She highlighted the impressive diversity aboard the Viking Sky, with passengers from 14 international jurisdictions and a crew representing 40 nationalities, including 19 Kenyans.

“To me, as the Minister in charge of tourism, I see in you tourism ambassadors from 54 countries around the world,” she remarked.

Encouraging Kenyan crewmembers working in the cruise ship industry, Miano urged them to promote Kenya’s tourism potential to travelers they interact with.

“By sharing the marvels of our motherland, you can inspire more tourists to visit, helping boost our arrival numbers and strengthen our economy,” she added.

As the visitors embark on their excursions, Miano expressed hope that they would carry fond memories of Kenya back home and spread the word about the country’s beauty.

“While you explore Kenya’s diverse attractions, I hope you will enjoy your stay and share your experiences with friends and family. Kenya is a destination worth including in every traveler’s holiday circuit,” she concluded.

With the increasing number of cruise ships docking in Mombasa, Kenya continues to position itself as a premier tourist destination, attracting visitors from across the globe.

I have been silently following this rich debate with great interest. As a mathematician and educator, I appreciate the diverse perspectives on whether mathematics should be made compulsory at the senior school level under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). Given my background in education and policy, I believe this discussion is crucial for shaping a system that truly serves all learners.

These are my honest views for the ongoing public participation:

The Origin of CBC and Its Implementation in Kenya

Kenya borrowed the idea of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) from countries such as Finland, Canada, Singapore, and South Africa, where learner-centered education systems focus on practical skills, problem-solving, and holistic development. However, while these countries had structured, well-funded, and phased implementations, Kenya rushed the rollout without adequate teacher training, infrastructure, or clear policy frameworks, leading to confusion, resistance, and mixed results.

For example:

Finland phased in CBC over several years, ensuring teacher readiness and proper learning resources.

Canada integrates multiple mathematics pathways, allowing students to take applied, academic, or workplace math based on career aspirations.

Singapore places strong emphasis on teacher training and well-developed curricula to ensure students grasp mathematical concepts effectively.

South Africa faced challenges similar to Kenya, including rushed implementation and resistance, which led to frequent curriculum revisions.

Kenya should have benchmarked not just the idea, but also the implementation process, ensuring structured training, phased adoption, and alignment with local realities before full implementation.

Merits of Making Mathematics Compulsory

1. Foundation for Critical Thinking – Mathematics fosters logical reasoning, problem-solving, and analytical skills essential for both academics and daily life.
2. Career Relevance – A strong mathematical foundation ensures students do not limit their future career prospects in STEM, finance, and data-driven fields.
3. Global Benchmarking – Leading education systems emphasize mathematics as a core subject due to its role in economic and technological advancement.

4. Economic Competitiveness – Kenya’s Vision 2030 depends on a workforce skilled in mathematics, which is fundamental to digital transformation and innovation.

Demerits of a Blanket Compulsory Policy

1. Mass Failures and Psychological Pressure – KCSE results show that many students struggle with mathematics. Forcing all students to take advanced mathematics could lead to high failure rates and disengagement.
2. Diverse Career Interests – Not all career paths require advanced mathematics. Creative arts, social sciences, and humanities may benefit more from applied numeracy than pure mathematics.

3. Teacher Preparedness and Resource Gaps – Many schools, especially in rural areas, lack qualified mathematics teachers. Making mathematics compulsory without addressing quality concerns may widen the education gap.

The Larger Issue: Mass Failures in KCSE

Beyond the mathematics debate, Kenya is grappling with widespread failure rates across multiple subjects. The key causes include:

Rote Learning Over Conceptual Mastery – Many students memorize content instead of understanding concepts. CBC aimed to change this but has faced implementation challenges.

Teacher Training Deficiencies – Educators were not adequately prepared for CBC, leading to ineffective teaching approaches.

Exam-Oriented System – The continued emphasis on final KCSE exams contradicts CBC’s promise of competency-based assessment.

Socioeconomic Barriers – Underfunded schools, inadequate learning materials, and economic hardships impact learning outcomes, particularly in marginalized areas.

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My Proposed Way Forward

1. A Flexible Mathematics Curriculum

Instead of a rigid “compulsory for all” model, introduce multiple mathematics pathways:

Pure Mathematics for STEM careers
Applied Mathematics for business, agriculture, and technology

Basic Numeracy for humanities and creative fields
This mirrors successful models in Germany, Canada, and Australia, ensuring mathematics is accessible and relevant to all students.

2. Teacher Training and Pedagogical Reforms

Enhance teacher training programs to improve math instruction.

Introduce digital learning tools to make mathematics more engaging.

Shift from exam-oriented teaching to practical, real-world applications of mathematics.

3. Rethink KCSE and Assessment Models

Implement continuous assessment instead of relying on a single high-stakes exam.

Use project-based learning to help students apply math in real-life scenarios.

4. Address Socioeconomic Barriers

Increase funding for underprivileged schools to bridge disparities.

Strengthen career guidance to help students choose pathways aligned with their abilities.

Encourage parental involvement in supporting academic growth.

Final Thoughts: What Kenya Should Have Done from the Start

When CBC was being crafted, a globally benchmarked, research-driven framework should have guided subject selection at senior school. The current rigid structure does not accommodate students’ diverse strengths and aspirations.

Instead of making mathematics compulsory in its pure form, Kenya should adopt a competency-based, career-aligned approach that ensures numeracy for all while allowing specialization. This would:

Reduce failure rates

Cater to diverse talents

Prepare students for real-world careers

Align with global best practices
Kenya must learn from countries that successfully implemented CBC and adjust its strategy to focus on structured implementation, proper teacher training, and clear subject pathways. This is how we truly equip our learners for the future while maintaining high educational standards.

This is my professional and honest submission to the ongoing public participation. Let’s get it right for our learners and the future of Kenya.

Dr. Paul Sharp
Mathematician | Educator | Education Policy Advocate
Founder & CEO, Sharp Education Center & Junior School
Honorary National Treasurer, Unified APBET Schools Association (UASA) Kenya
Board Member, Gravity CBC Centre
Email: infosharpschool@gmail.com

By John Kariuki

Limuru, Tuesday, 18th March 2025 – Hon. Eng. Kiragu Chege, the Member of Parliament for Limuru, reaffirmed his commitment to empowering women through digital literacy as he joined participants for the Ajira Digital Program entrepreneurship training at the Limuru ICT Hub.

The two-day training, held next to the Limuru Law Courts, was designed to equip women with the necessary digital skills to expand their businesses and tap into online job opportunities. Speaking at the event, Hon. Kiragu emphasized the transformative power of digital technology in creating economic opportunities for women.

“Empowering women with digital skills is a crucial step toward financial independence. The online economy is full of opportunities, and I encourage all participants to leverage these skills to grow their businesses and improve their livelihoods,” said Hon. Kiragu.

To celebrate the conclusion of the program and mark Women’s Month, a cake-cutting ceremony was held in honor of the women who took part.

Hon. Kiragu reiterated his dedication to supporting digital literacy and entrepreneurship initiatives, ensuring that women in Limuru have access to the resources and knowledge needed to succeed in today’s digital world.

By John Kariuki

In today’s fast-paced digital world, sending money has become a necessity for millions of people. Whether it’s paying for goods and services, supporting loved ones, or handling business transactions, mobile and online money transfers play a crucial role in everyday life. However, one major challenge that many consumers face is the high transaction fees imposed by most financial service providers.

SasaPay is stepping in to change this narrative. The financial technology company is dedicated to making money transfers more affordable by keeping transaction charges significantly lower than competitors. With a strong belief that every coin counts, SasaPay ensures that users save more with every transaction, allowing them greater financial freedom.

Unlike traditional money transfer services that often include hidden fees or high charges, SasaPay has streamlined its pricing model to make transactions cost-effective. Whether sending money to family, making business payments, or moving funds between accounts, users can now do so without the frustration of excessive charges eating into their hard-earned money.

To make its services even more accessible, SasaPay offers an easy and convenient way to sign up and start transacting. Users can register through their mobile phones or download the SasaPay app from their preferred app store. The platform connects seamlessly with all networks and banks, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience for everyone, regardless of their service provider.

Security is another key feature that SasaPay prioritizes. The platform employs advanced encryption and fraud protection measures to ensure that transactions are not only affordable but also secure. Users can send money with confidence, knowing that their financial information is protected at all times.

SasaPay is not just about reducing costs—it’s about unlocking financial opportunities for individuals and businesses alike. By eliminating the burden of high transaction fees, the platform enables users to allocate their savings to more productive ventures. Businesses can reinvest more into their growth, individuals can manage their personal finances better, and families can send and receive money without unnecessary financial strain.

With its user-friendly interface, seamless connectivity, and commitment to affordability, SasaPay is setting a new standard in the financial services industry. For those tired of paying excessive transaction fees, SasaPay presents a game-changing alternative that ensures more money stays in their pockets.

By making transactions more affordable, secure, and convenient, SasaPay is revolutionizing the way people send and receive money. Anyone looking for a smarter, cost-effective way to manage their finances can take advantage of this innovative service today.

Search for Common Ground, the world’s largest peacebuilding organization operating in over 35 countries, has announced a groundbreaking initiative aimed at accelerating the Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS) agenda in Kenya. The organization is leading efforts in the Horn of Africa, with active programs in Kenya, Somalia, and Ethiopia.

Speaking to journalists in Nairobi on Tuesday, Judy Kimaru, Country Director of Search for Common Ground, emphasized the importance of youth in Kenya’s peace and development journey. She highlighted that young people form a significant demographic and are central to the growth, peace, and cohesion that the nation desires. The Youth Peace and Security National Action Plan will serve as a key framework to realize the aspirations of Kenyan youth, setting the agenda for inclusive development and harmony.

The YPS agenda is rooted in a global movement that began in 2015 when youth from various countries, including Kenya, gathered in Jordan to engage with the United Nations. This effort led to the adoption of UN Resolution 2250, which empowers young people to actively participate in peacebuilding and influence the development of peace structures and frameworks in their own countries.

The National Action Plan for Kenya focuses on several fundamental aspects. One of the primary objectives is ensuring the meaningful participation of young people in political processes, making them central to conversations and decisions that shape their future. Another key focus is the protection of youth, recognizing that young people should not be viewed as instruments of conflict or unrest but rather as individuals deserving of safety and support.

Additionally, the plan emphasizes partnership, encouraging communities and institutions to view young people as essential partners in peace rather than sources of problems. Rehabilitation and reintegration are also crucial components, particularly for young people involved in conflicts or affected by violence, as the plan seeks to support their return to normalcy through disengagement and disarmament programs.

The event brought together numerous stakeholders, including the State Department for Youth, the National Youth Council, the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), the National Youth Service, and various civil society networks. Judy Kimaru expressed pride in the strong involvement of youth-led civil society coalitions, such as the National Coalition for Youth, which co-hosted the meeting. She emphasized the importance of collaboration between government entities, civil society, and grassroots organizations to create a comprehensive and inclusive approach to peace and security.

Kimaru called on like-minded partners and agencies to join the initiative, noting that Kenya aims to become the seventh African country to develop a National Action Plan for Youth, Peace, and Security. The goal is to roll out the plan within the next one to two years, well ahead of the next elections, ensuring that conversations around peace and security take place at the national, county, and grassroots levels.

To facilitate youth engagement, Search for Common Ground plans to open online channels for input and feedback, leveraging modern AI tools to gather diverse perspectives from young people across the country. Judy Kimaru encouraged youth to take an active role in shaping the plan and to connect with the National Coalition for Youth to ensure their voices are heard.

By Brenda Asugu
Kinangop Dairy Limited has introduced five new yoghurt flavors to the market, further cementing its reputation as a leader in the dairy industry. The new varieties—Pineapple Yoghurt, Vanilla Yoghurt, Strawberry Yoghurt, Lemon Biscuit Yoghurt, and Chocolate Yoghurt—are expected to offer consumers a wider range of delicious and nutritious options.
The company says the launch aligns with its commitment to meeting evolving consumer tastes while maintaining high-quality standards. The yoghurts are made from fresh, locally sourced milk and crafted with carefully selected ingredients to ensure superior taste and nutrition.
Speaking at the launch, Kinangop Dairy Limited’s CEO, Samuel Macharia, emphasized the company’s focus on innovation and consumer satisfaction.
“At Kinangop Dairy Limited, we are always striving to innovate and provide our consumers with premium dairy products that match their evolving lifestyles. Our new yoghurt flavors have been carefully crafted using the finest ingredients to ensure that every spoonful delivers an unmatched taste experience,” said Macharia.
He added that the new range is designed to offer variety, health benefits, and an enjoyable eating experience.
John G. Msafari, Chairman of the Board of Directors, called the product expansion a game-changer for the industry.
“This is a significant step forward for Kinangop Dairy Limited. With these new flavors, we are not just expanding our portfolio; we are enriching the lives of our customers by offering them more choices that align with their unique preferences,” said Msafari.
He noted that the company conducted extensive market research and rigorous quality testing before launching the new flavors to ensure consistency and excellenceWinnie Muthoni, General Manager of Sales, explained that the new flavors were developed based on consumer preferences.
“We have listened to our customers and developed flavors that cater to both classic and adventurous tastes. Pineapple Yoghurt offers a tropical twist, Vanilla Yoghurt provides a smooth and creamy delight, Strawberry Yoghurt is a timeless favorite, Lemon Biscuit Yoghurt combines citrusy zest with a crunchy surprise, and Chocolate Yoghurt delivers a decadent treat,” Muthoni said.
She added that the yoghurts will be available in various packaging sizes to suit different needs, from on-the-go snacking to family-sized portions.
Kinangop Dairy Limited highlighted that the new yoghurts are not only tasty but also rich in essential nutrients, including calcium, protein, and probiotics, which support digestive health and overall well-being.
The products will be stocked in supermarkets, retail outlets, and convenience stores across Kenya. Consumers can also purchase them through Kinangop Dairy Limited’s distribution network.
“We are working closely with our retail partners to ensure that our customers can easily find our new yoghurt flavors in stores near them,” said Muthoni
As Kinangop Dairy Limited continues to grow, the company remains committed to sustainability and supporting local dairy farmers.
“We take pride in our deep-rooted partnerships with local dairy farmers who provide us with high-quality milk. As we introduce new products, we are also investing in our communities and the broader dairy industry,” said Msafari.
With the launch of these five new yoghurt flavors, Kinangop Dairy Limited aims to solidify its position as an industry leader, offering consumers both indulgence and nutrition in every serving.

By Judith Mwai

Tropikal Brands Afrika Introduces ALO: A New Era of Natural Skincare with Locally Sourced Ingredients

Nairobi, Kenya – Leading consumer goods manufacturer Tropikal Brands Afrika Ltd has officially launched ALO, a premium skincare and hygiene range designed to meet the growing demand for natural, sustainable personal care products.

With a USD 3 million investment, the company has introduced a carefully curated product line that includes Body Lotions, Shower Gels, Body Sprays, and Roll-Ons, each formulated with natural ingredients to enhance skin health and hygiene.

Speaking at the launch, Tropikal Brands Afrika Managing Director, Mr. Davis Mukuria, emphasized the company’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and local economic empowerment.

“The ALO range marks a significant milestone in our mission to deliver superior, nature-inspired personal care solutions. We take pride in offering products that not only nourish and protect the skin but also support local farmers and promote ethical ingredient sourcing.”

A standout feature of the ALO range is its Goat Milk-enriched Body Lotions, formulated in collaboration with over 500 Kenyan farmers. Rich in natural lactic acid, goat milk gently exfoliates and hydrates the skin, ensuring a soft, radiant glow. Additionally, the ALO Aluminum-Free Deodorants provide 48-hour freshness, prioritizing both skin health and environmental safety.

Tropikal Brands Afrika’s Head of Commercial, Mr. Simon Kabue, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to local sourcing and value addition, highlighting its role in driving economic growth and job creation within Kenya’s agricultural and manufacturing sectors.

Kenya’s personal care market is projected to reach USD 1.29 billion in 2024, with a 4.90% annual growth rate (2025-2030), according to Statista. This rising consumer interest in natural and organic products aligns perfectly with ALO’s mission to offer high-quality, eco-conscious skincare solutions.

“At Tropikal Brands Afrika, innovation is at the core of everything we do. We are committed to continuously enhancing our products to meet evolving consumer needs while fostering economic empowerment through local manufacturing,” Mr. Mukuria concluded.

With the launch of ALO, Tropikal Brands Afrika Ltd is redefining skincare standards in Africa, proving that nature, quality, and sustainability can go hand in hand for a healthier, more radiant beauty experience.