Author: staff reporter

The Reproductive Health and Rights Alliance (RHRA) has raised serious concerns over the Kenyan government’s continued failure to adequately address critical sexual and reproductive health (SRH) challenges, particularly in the prevention and response to rape and defilement.

Citing a recent study by the Ministry of Health, the African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), and the Guttmacher Institute, RHRA noted that an estimated 792,694 induced abortions occurred in Kenya in 2023. The report further revealed that although more than half of the women who experienced post-abortion complications received treatment in public health facilities, the quality and availability of care were severely limited. Only 18.3 percent of primary health facilities and 24.1 percent of referral hospitals were fully equipped to offer basic and comprehensive post-abortion care, respectively.

“These figures are a grim reflection of a health system that is failing women and girls,” RHRA stated. “The government’s continued neglect has resulted in avoidable deaths, trauma, and worsening inequalities.”

According to RHRA, the prevalence of unsafe abortions and maternal deaths—355 per 100,000 live births—is directly linked to chronic underfunding of the health sector. Kenya has consistently fallen short of the Abuja Declaration target of allocating at least 15 percent of the national budget to health. In the 2024–2025 fiscal year, only 3.18 percent of the Sh3.992 trillion national budget was allocated to health—down from 5.17 percent in 2022–2023. The free maternal healthcare program has been particularly affected, with its funding slashed from Sh4 billion in 2023–2024 to Sh2 billion this year.

RHRA also emphasized that a significant number of unsafe abortions are the result of rape and defilement. A 2023 report by the Center for Reproductive Rights found that, despite Article 26(4) of the Constitution permitting abortion when a trained professional determines it is necessary to protect a woman’s life or health, survivors of sexual violence are frequently denied safe abortion services due to stigma, legal ambiguity, and fear of criminalization. Instead of receiving care, justice, and protection, survivors are often silenced by cultural taboos, ineffective legal systems, and a healthcare system ill-equipped to meet their needs.

The Alliance warned that teenage girls are disproportionately affected by this crisis. Many who become pregnant as a result of rape or defilement are forced to drop out of school, endure lifelong trauma, or resort to unsafe abortions. This perpetuates a cycle of poverty, stigma, and limited educational opportunities, further entrenching gender inequality and undermining national development.

In response to the escalating crisis, RHRA called on the government to significantly increase investment in reproductive and maternal health services in the 2025–2026 budget. The Alliance also urged the government to strengthen the investigation and prosecution of rape and defilement cases, ensure accountability, and provide survivors with timely, adequate care. RHRA stressed the urgent need to expand youth-friendly and adolescent-specific SRH services, including access to emergency contraception, safe abortion where legally permitted, and psychosocial support. It also called for full implementation of mandatory re-entry policies for pregnant schoolgirls and robust measures to keep them in school. Additionally, the Alliance advocated for nationwide campaigns to combat stigma, raise awareness, and empower survivors of sexual violence.

“Kenya’s failure to invest in reproductive health and justice for survivors is costing lives and futures,” RHRA concluded. “We urge the government to act decisively and uphold its constitutional obligation to ensure the highest attainable standard of health for all.”

By John Kariuki

Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Hon. Mutahi Kagwe, EGH, is currently leading a high-level delegation to the West of Rift region in a decisive move to address longstanding challenges facing Kenya’s tea industry. The visit is focused on enhancing tea quality, expanding access to global markets, and ensuring prosperity for the more than 650,000 smallholder tea farmers across the country.

Accompanying the CS are key leaders from the tea value chain, including KTDA Group CEO Wilson Muthaura, KTDA Vice-Chair Erick Chepkwony, Chair of the Tea Board of Kenya Dr. Ndung’u Gathinji, TBK CEO Willy Mutai, Principal Secretary for Agriculture Dr. Kipronoh Ronoh, and Kericho Governor Dr. Eric Mutai.

The strategic tour represents a united vision between government and industry stakeholders to stabilize the tea sector, boost farmer earnings, and elevate the global profile of Kenyan tea. Discussions center on innovative value addition, strengthening governance in tea factories, and enhancing the traceability and quality of Kenyan teas to meet international standards.

Stakeholders from various tea companies and affiliated agencies—such as KTDA Holdings, Tea Board of Kenya, Ketepa Ltd, Majani Insurance Brokers Ltd, Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency, and numerous tea factories—are actively participating in the engagement.

This mission underscores Kenya’s commitment to reaffirming its status as a global leader in quality teas and ensuring farmers remain at the heart of all sectoral reforms.

By John Kariuki

Gatanga, Murang’a County

In a strong show of solidarity and dedication to grassroots empowerment, Hon. Ann Wamuratha joined Hon. Betty N. Maina, the Woman Representative for Murang’a County, at the Inua Jamii Mashinani Program held at Rwegetha Catholic Grounds in Gatanga Ward.

The event, which drew a large turnout from the local community, underscored a deep commitment to uplifting every household in Murang’a County through inclusive, people-driven development.

Gracing the occasion were influential leaders who continue to champion the welfare of Kenyan citizens. Among them were Hon. Kimani Ichung’wah, Majority Leader of the National Assembly; Hon. Sabina Wanjiru Chege, Nominated Member of Parliament; Hon. Gachui, MCA for Kihumbu-ini; and Mr. William Maina, Assistant County Commissioner for Gatanga, among other notable guests. Their presence symbolized a united front in pushing forward transformative grassroots initiatives.

“Inua Jamii Mashinani is more than a program; it is a movement to ensure that no one is left behind,” said Hon. Wamuratha. “Together, we are laying the foundation for stronger, more resilient communities across every ward.”

As the initiative continues to roll out across Murang’a, it stands as a powerful reminder of what visionary leadership and collaborative effort can achieve for the people.

By John Kariuki

Dr. Faith Mwaura, an influential board director at the Kenya Development Corporation (KDC), is taking a leading role in a powerful collaborative initiative set to ignite agri-industrial growth across Western Kenya.

Dr. Mwaura spearheaded a vital pre-conference assembly, uniting crucial stakeholders in anticipation of the upcoming County Agri-Industrialization and Processing Summit (CAIPS).
The significant meeting, orchestrated by KDC under Dr. Mwaura’s guidance, drew together key players including the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment (MITI), the Kenya Investment Authority, prominent agricultural organization One Acre Fund, and the dedicated Governors representing five key counties within the Western Region. Dr. Mwaura’s proactive convening of this diverse group underscores KDC’s pivotal position in nurturing strategic alliances for regional advancement.

Following the productive discussions, Dr. Mwaura highlighted the collective resolve shared by all participating entities. “This morning’s engagement vividly illustrates the robust synergy between KDC and our essential partners as we collaboratively pave the way for a impactful CAIPS,” Dr. Mwaura affirmed. “Our unified objective is to ensure that the summit catalyzes tangible progress for the agricultural sector and the vibrant communities throughout Western Kenya.”
This crucial pre-conference session provided a valuable platform for these key organizations to harmonize their strategies, share critical updates on ongoing projects, and solidify a cohesive message in preparation for the main CAIPS conference.

The direct engagement of the Western Region Governors, facilitated by Dr. Mwaura’s leadership, signifies a strong alignment of national and local efforts in driving meaningful agri-industrial transformation.
The highly anticipated CAIPS conference is poised to be a landmark event, bringing together stakeholders from every facet of the agricultural value chain to explore and unlock the vast potential within industrialization and processing. Dr. Mwaura’s decisive leadership in convening this timely pre-conference meeting underscores the unwavering dedication and growing momentum propelling a summit that holds the promise of a significant and positive impact on the economic landscape of Western Kenya.

By John Kariuki

In a powerful demonstration of leadership and environmental stewardship, Eng. Margaret Ogai, the Registrar and CEO of the Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK), today joined fellow professionals and stakeholders in a large scale tree planting exercise at Ngong Hills. The initiative comes as part of the ongoing national efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable development.

Clad in boots and a smile, Eng. Ogai rolled up her sleeves and planted trees alongside engineers, students, and community members. Her presence and active participation underscored the critical role that engineering leaders must play in shaping not only infrastructure but also the environmental future of the country.

“This is more than a symbolic act,” Eng. Ogai remarked during the event. “It is a call to action. As engineers, we design the future and that future must be green, inclusive, and resilient. Today, we plant trees; tomorrow, we build a legacy.”

The event comes just days before the Engineering Partnerships Convention 2025 (EPC2025), a flagship gathering of Kenya’s engineering community, which will be held from 7th to 9th May 2025 at The Edge Convention Centre, Nairobi. This year’s theme, “Engineering a Digital World”, aligns seamlessly with the environmental mission demonstrated at Ngong Hills: fostering innovation while safeguarding the planet.

The convention will bring together engineers, policymakers, academia, and industry leaders to explore advancements in technology, sustainability, infrastructure, and professional development. Attendees will benefit from 20 Professional Development Units (PDUs), making it a key event in the calendar for all licensed engineers.

The tree planting initiative not only set the tone for the upcoming convention but also served as a reminder of the engineering profession’s responsibility to lead by example in promoting sustainability and environmental consciousness.

As Kenya grapples with climate change, urbanization, and digital transformation, EPC2025 promises to be a cornerstone event in charting the way forward, integrating environmental responsibility with engineering excellence.

Participants are encouraged to register early and secure their place at this critical convention. Whether attending physically or virtually, EPC2025 offers a platform for inspiration, collaboration, and the advancement of a greener, smarter Kenya.

By John Kariuki

Eldoret City

Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano has urged regulatory agency heads to embrace visionary leadership, drive innovation, and align their strategies with Kenya’s broader development goals. Speaking during a high-level dinner for CEOs of regulatory bodies at the Eka Hotel in Eldoret, Miano emphasized that the role of regulators must evolve beyond enforcing rules to shaping national progress through strategic foresight and people-centered governance.

The event, which brought together senior government officials including Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service Mr. Felix Koskei, principal secretaries, and leaders from a wide range of regulatory authorities, served as a platform to reflect on the evolving mandate of regulators in Kenya’s socio-economic transformation.

“Though seldom acknowledged, the effectiveness of regulators determines the pace of economic growth, the level of trust citizens place in public institutions, and ultimately, our global competitiveness,” Miano noted in her keynote address.

Drawing from her tenure as CEO of the Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen), Miano shared practical leadership insights. She emphasized the power of a well-communicated vision in shaping performance and culture. “At KenGen, our mission to ‘light up Kenya sustainably’ guided every decision—from geothermal investments to community engagement,” she said.

She challenged agencies to periodically revisit their strategic plans and ensure alignment with the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) and Vision 2030. “A leader with a poorly communicated set of goals and objectives is like a bee bereft of the skill of collecting nectar,” she quipped, drawing laughter from the audience.

Miano also emphasized the value of inclusive stakeholder engagement. She encouraged regulators to build trust by staying connected to the people they serve. “At KenGen, we held annual public forums to listen to communities affected by our projects. It worked magic for us,” she recalled.

Highlighting the transformative potential of emerging technologies, Miano urged agencies to leverage artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, and automation to enhance regulatory efficiency and transparency. “Imagine a system where the Kenya Revenue Authority uses AI to detect tax evasion in real time or the Capital Markets Authority flags insider trading automatically. The possibilities are endless—if we dare to dream,” she remarked.

However, she cautioned that technology must be matched by strong human capital. She called on regulators to invest in continuous capacity building through leadership programs, institutional partnerships, and talent development. “Encourage innovation through sandbox models that allow safe experimentation,” she said. “And always benchmark your practices against global standards.”

In her closing remarks, Rebecca Miano emphasized humility, professionalism, and integrity as non-negotiable values in leadership. “Surround yourself with diverse thinkers. Encourage dissent—it sharpens decisions. And never underestimate the power of listening,” she concluded.

By Ronald Njoroge

Roam, Kenya’s leading electric mobility company, has officially expanded its operations to Machakos County, further strengthening its commitment to building a robust electric transport ecosystem beyond Nairobi.
Following the successful launch of Roam Shop – Thika in Thika Town, Kiambu County, in November 2024, this new Machakos outlet marks the next step in Roam’s ambitious nationwide expansion plan for 2025. Strategically located at the
newly opened TotalEnergies Mua View Service Station, 6 km from Machakos Town along the Kitui Road, the outlet will
bring Roam’s innovative electric mobility solutions closer to the community.
The Roam Shop – Machakos will offer sales of Roam Air electric motorcycles, Roam Air battery charging and rental
services, after-sales support, and dedicated customer service for the region. The Machakos location adds to Roam’s
expanding cooperation with TotalEnergies, which already hosts four Roam Hubs, including Lusaka Road, Karambee in Juja
Road, Waiyaki Way, and Outer Ring Road—showcasing how petrol stations are evolving to support clean mobility solutions.
Machakos is renowned for its rugged and elevated terrain, including landmarks like Iveti Hills and Kituluni Hill, where water
famously appears to flow uphill. To ensure the Roam Air motorcycle could thrive in such a demanding landscape, Roam
deployed five units for hands-on test rides across boda boda stages in the area.
Riders reported outstanding performance even under full loads—thanks to the Roam Air’s 240 kg payload capacity and 58 Nm peak torque. Built with African riders in mind, the Roam Air embodies Roam’s design philosophy: “Designed in Africa, for Africa.”

Machakos riders can charge their Roam Air batteries at home for
about KES 80, providing a range of 80–100 km per charge,
depending on the driving mode. In comparison, covering the same
distance with an internal combustion engine (ICE) motorcycle
typically requires around 3 litres of fuel, currently priced at KES 175
per litre, according to the Energy & Petroleum Regulatory Authority
(EPRA). Riders using the Roam Air’s dual-battery feature can cover
160–200 km on a full charge. Those with a single battery can visit
the new Roam Hub in Machakos Town to rent a charged battery for
KES 20 per hour, helping them avoid downtime.
To make Roam Air more accessible, Roam has brought in financing
partners, including M-Kopa, 4G Capital, Mogo, and Watu Credit,
offering flexible payment plans starting from as little as a KES
10,000 deposit and KES 460 in daily installments.

Habib Lukaya, Field Operations Manager at Roam: “We’ve always envisioned Roam as a truly Pan-African solution—and that means expanding beyond major urban centers like Nairobi. Machakos presents a perfect blend of opportunity and challenge, particularly with its hilly terrain. The feedback from boda boda riders during our test phase confirmed that the Roam Air can handle these conditions exceptionally well. Our next step is to continue expanding into more counties across
Kenya to make clean mobility accessible to everyone.”

By Brenda Asugu
Nairobi, Kenya — April 30, 2025

Religious and health leaders from across Africa have converged in Nairobi for the groundbreaking Faith in Action Health Conference, a historic interfaith effort aimed at tackling maternal mortality and cervical cancer—two of the continent’s most pressing but preventable health issues.

The two-day conference, hosted by the Africa Health and Economic Transformation Initiative (AHETI), has drawn a powerful coalition of Catholic bishops, Muslim scholars, Hindu and Protestant clerics, Seventh-day Adventist representatives, and global health experts to forge a united front in saving lives.

“As shepherds of our communities, we must not only preach about dignity and life—we must protect it. This moment demands more than prayer; it demands action,” declared Most Rev. Philip Anyolo, Archbishop of Nairobi and the event’s chief guest, during the opening session.

Building on the momentum of the 2024 Nairobi Convening on Faith and Science, the conference shifts from dialogue to action, focusing on practical interventions such as expanding HPV vaccination, improving maternal health services, and scaling up cervical cancer screening—particularly in underserved areas where faith leaders hold significant influence.

“Religious leaders have the trust of millions. That trust must now be used to save lives,” emphasized Fr. Charles Chilufya, S.J., Executive Director of AHETI. “We are moving from pulpits to public health campaigns.”

Kenya remains one of the countries hardest hit by these health crises, reporting 342 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births. Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Kenyan women, claiming over 3,500 lives annually. Despite the availability of the HPV vaccine, uptake remains below 30%, hampered by misinformation and limited access.

With over 90% of Africa’s population identifying with a faith tradition (Pew Research Center, 2022), religious leaders are being recognized as essential partners in transforming health outcomes.

“We have seen the harm that myths and stigma can cause,” said Dr. Hussein Iman of the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM). “Faith leaders must be part of the solution—championing awareness, acceptance, and access.”

Conference discussions are centering on faith-based health financing, interfaith efforts for universal health coverage, and integrating faith-run health institutions into national health systems.

The conference is aims at achieving Concrete commitments by religious institutions to support vaccination, screening, and maternal care ,closer collaboration between faith-based and government health systems

Resource mobilization to strengthen faith-run healthcare facilities, Interfaith partnerships aimed at achieving universal health coverage (UHC)

Following the conference, AHETI will host the Faith in Action Medical Camp on May 16–17 at St. Francis Community Hospital in Kasarani, where over 1,000 underserved Nairobi residents will receive free health services including screenings, consultations, and health education.

Organizers hope the conference will spark a movement that transcends faith lines and borders—placing health equity and compassion at the heart of religious leadership.

By Churchill Cryill Barasa

NAIROBI, Kenya — April 25, 2025 – What began as a competitive round of golf turned into a day of powerful purpose as the 3rd Annual Kenya Education Fund (KEF) Charity Golf Tournament brought together over 200 golfers at Nairobi’s prestigious Karen Country Club. The event, held on the serene, sun-dappled fairways, was not just a sporting affair—it was a mission to empower bright, underserved students across Kenya through education.

With a fundraising target of KSh 1.4 million, the event rallied remarkable support, collecting over KSh 1.8 million through player registration, corporate backing, and raffle activities. The Kenya Education Fund, now in its 19th year, has transformed the lives of more than 4,600 students by providing not just school fees, but also mentorship, life skills, reproductive health education, and career readiness support. Currently, the fund supports 650 students, boasting a 100% transition rate to tertiary institutions in 2025.

KEF Executive Director and Founder Dominic Muasya lauded the turnout and spirit of giving, emphasizing the need to build a culture where more Kenyans embrace structured philanthropy. “We’re here not just to play, but to give children across the country a fighting chance,” he said. His sentiments were echoed by KEF County Director Francis Nganga, who highlighted that the number of students KEF can support directly depends on donations received each year.

Major sponsors of this year’s tournament included Prudential Life Assurance Kenya, KCB Foundation, Complete Solutions Insurance Brokers, and East Africa Safari Ventures—companies whose partnerships have been key in driving KEF’s mission forward. Prudential’s Head of Marketing, Nancy Wonder, urged Kenyans to offer whatever support they can—be it financial, time, or resources—to help students who would otherwise never see the inside of a classroom.

The tournament also celebrated the skill and determination of its participants, with homegrown golfing talent Harriett Kaguru claiming the title of overall winner. Beyond the green, attendees enjoyed the “Raffle for Education,” where lucky winners took home luxury getaways, fine dining experiences, and other exclusive prizes.

Looking to the future, Muasya revealed plans to expand the KEF golf tournament to other counties, aiming to mobilize even more community support and raise awareness of the challenges facing thousands of deserving but disadvantaged students.

As the final putt dropped and the sun dipped below the horizon at Karen, what lingered was more than applause—it was the shared commitment of a community determined to drive real, lasting change through the power of education.

By Denis Muritu

The Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) has successfully hosted a three-day National Delegates Conference for the Special Schools Headteachers Association of Kenya (SSHAK), reaffirming its role as a national leader in the advancement of special needs education.

The event brought together hundreds of headteachers and education stakeholders to discuss strategies for enhancing the delivery of special needs education across the country.

Speaking at the official opening of the conference, Ms. Kristine Pratt, Chairperson of the National Fund for the Disabled of Kenya (NFDK), who represented Principal Secretary for Education Dr. Julius Bitok, lauded KISE’s growing mandate. She announced the institute’s expanded national role in overseeing the operations of regional Educational Assessment and Resource Centers (EARCs) and coordinating the distribution of assistive devices and learning materials for learners with disabilities.

Highlighting a key initiative, Ms. Pratt shared updates on the ongoing construction of a Parental Empowerment Center—a pioneering project aimed at equipping parents of children with disabilities with the tools and knowledge needed to support their children’s educational journeys effectively.

“The strength of our partnerships with school leaders determines how effectively we can transform the lives of learners with special needs,” Ms. Pratt emphasized. “Collaboration is key to achieving inclusive education.”

The conference also served as a platform to celebrate KISE’s growing influence as a hub for innovation, advocacy, and support in the field of special needs education. With a renewed focus on parental engagement, teacher empowerment, and regional coordination, KISE reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that every learner—regardless of ability—has access to quality education.