The Chief Executive Officer of Optiven Group, Dr. George Wachiuri, has once again proven that hard work, dedication, and faith in God yield incredible rewards. In a moment of immense pride and gratitude, Dr. Wachiuri celebrated his son, Alex Kariuki Wachiuri, for his exemplary performance in the 2024 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams. Alex emerged as the top student at Pioneer School and ranked 163rd nationwide, achieving a remarkable mean grade of A.
Reflecting on this milestone, Dr. Wachiuri attributed his son’s success to God’s divine favor and grace. “I am deeply thankful to God for rewarding us at this time,” he said. “After years of supporting over 600 orphans and deserving children across Kenya through the Optiven Foundation, God has come knocking in our family. My son Alex’s success is a testimony to God’s faithfulness.”
The Optiven Foundation, a charitable arm of the Optiven Group, has made a significant impact on the lives of countless children in Kenya, offering education, mentorship, and hope to those in need. For Dr. Wachiuri, Alex’s success is not just a family victory but a reminder of the power of giving back and trusting in God’s plan.
Dr. Wachiuri extended heartfelt gratitude to the teachers and management of Pioneer School, who played a pivotal role in nurturing Alex’s academic journey. “I cannot thank the teachers and management of Pioneer School enough for their dedication and hard work,” he said. “They have been instrumental in shaping Alex’s success and the success of many other students.”
In addition to celebrating Alex’s achievement, Dr. Wachiuri took a moment to congratulate all 2024 KCSE candidates. “This year’s cohort has demonstrated resilience and determination despite the challenges faced in the education sector. I applaud every candidate for their hard work and commitment. Your journey has just begun, and the future is bright,” he stated.
Alex’s remarkable performance is a source of inspiration not only to his family but also to the thousands of young people who look up to him. Dr. Wachiuri’s message is clear: faith, family, and giving back can open doors to extraordinary blessings.
As the nation celebrates the success stories from this year’s KCSE results, Alex Kariuki Wachiuri’s journey is a shining example of excellence, perseverance, and the power of God’s favor.
Congratulations to Alex, Dr. George Wachiuri, and the entire Wachiuri family for this outstanding achievement. Indeed, the sky is the limit for this young trailblazer, and we can only look forward to what the future holds for him.
The Hustler Fund, a groundbreaking financial inclusion initiative launched by President Ruto’s administration, is transforming the credit landscape in Kenya. By addressing the needs of the informal sector and uplifting those at the bottom of the economic pyramid, the Fund is creating new pathways for financial empowerment and economic growth.
In its latest innovation, the Hustler Fund introduced the “Bridge Loan,” a financial product specifically designed for borrowers with strong credit ratings. This offering allows users to graduate from smaller personal loans to enhanced financing options, enabling them to scale their businesses and access new opportunities.
Since its launch in November 2022, the Hustler Fund has disbursed an impressive KSh 62 billion, directly benefiting over 25 million Kenyans. This achievement underscores its critical role in addressing the gaps in Kenya’s credit market, where many remain unserved and unbanked due to high-risk profiles, lack of collateral, and limited credit histories.
The Fund not only provides access to credit but also offers a platform for credit repair. It gives Kenyans who were previously blacklisted by credit reference bureaus an opportunity to rebuild their creditworthiness and re-enter the mainstream financial ecosystem. Additionally, the Fund integrates a mandatory savings mechanism, with 5% of each borrowing allocated to savings. Of this, 70% goes toward pension contributions, while 30% remains accessible for short-term needs. Voluntary savings options are also available, empowering beneficiaries to save for targeted investments such as affordable housing.
Principal Secretary in the State Department of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, Ms. Susan Mangeni, described the Bridge Loan as a transformative addition to the Fund’s portfolio. “The Bridge Loan, which seeks to graduate successful Hustler Fund borrowers to enhanced financing in the commercial banking sector based on their credit ratings, has already disbursed over KSh 650 million since its rollout three weeks ago,” said PS Mangeni.
She emphasized that beneficiaries of the Bridge Loan will also benefit from strengthened relationships with banks, gaining the experience needed to expand their access to formal credit lines. “For business borrowers, this initiative creates an opportunity to be mainstreamed into a supportive financial ecosystem that goes beyond credit access. It includes capacity building, financial literacy, and market linkages,” she added.
The Bridge Loan, with an extended repayment term of 30 days compared to the 14 days offered on personal loans, is offered at a competitive interest rate of 8% per annum. This extended term and lower rate provide much-needed flexibility to borrowers, enabling them to invest in larger projects and scale their operations.
The launch of the Bridge Loan comes at a crucial time as Kenya’s start-up ecosystem continues to grow. However, with nearly 70% of start-ups failing within their first three years, access to capital remains a significant challenge. PS Mangeni noted that the government’s ongoing efforts, including the Start-Up Bill, aim to create a more favorable environment for innovation and investment. The Bridge Loan is expected to play a key role in addressing these challenges, reducing risks for entrepreneurs, and increasing their chances of success.
The Hustler Fund’s introduction of the Bridge Loan marks a significant evolution in Kenya’s financial landscape. By offering enhanced limits, longer repayment periods, and a pathway to mainstream banking, the Fund is empowering low-income earners to achieve greater financial independence.
For many borrowers, the opportunity to transition from smaller personal loans to business-oriented financing could be the catalyst for unlocking significant economic potential. As the Hustler Fund continues to expand its offerings, it is proving to be a vital instrument in Kenya’s quest for equitable and sustainable economic growth.
With initiatives like the Bridge Loan, the Hustler Fund reaffirms its commitment to fostering an inclusive financial ecosystem that supports individuals and businesses alike. This transformative approach is not only breaking barriers but also paving the way for a more prosperous future for millions of Kenyans.
Her Excellency Faith Mony Odhiambo, President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), has been appointed by President William Ruto to serve on a newly established 35-member task force to address the alarming rise in Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and femicide cases.
Under the leadership of Justice Nancy Baraza, the task force has been given a critical mandate: to analyze trends, identify hotspots, and tackle the root causes of GBV and femicide. The team will evaluate existing legal and policy frameworks, recommend improvements, and advocate for stronger enforcement mechanisms to close gaps in protecting vulnerable individuals. Their work aims to deliver actionable solutions on prevention, investigation, prosecution, and survivor support, ensuring a robust institutional response to these crimes.
President Faith Mony Odhiambo has been a vocal advocate against GBV and femicide. She has consistently condemned such acts while championing efforts to ensure survivors have prompt access to justice. “The rising cases of femicide are a blatant violation of constitutional principles and human dignity. They defy the values of equity, social justice, and inclusiveness enshrined in Article 10(2)(b) and Article 19(2) of our Constitution,” she stated.
Kenya is also bound by international treaties such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women and the Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women, which emphasize the need to protect women from violence and uphold their right to life and security. These instruments highlight the necessity of a comprehensive legal approach to safeguard women and marginalized groups.
The Kenyan Constitution provides a robust legal framework with over 20 provisions addressing issues of femicide and violence against women, reinforcing the commitment to human dignity and protection for all.
The task force’s work will be pivotal in building a safer, more equitable society where acts of violence against women are no longer tolerated. As President Faith reiterates, “It is our collective responsibility to ensure justice, equity, and the protection of human dignity for all Kenyans.”
Nairobi, Kenya – Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano has reaffirmed the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife’s dedication to achieving seven Key Result Areas (KRAs) as the sector enters a new year. Speaking during a Heads of Department meeting with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), Miano emphasized the importance of taking stock of progress and realigning strategies to ensure effective execution of the ministry’s mandate.
The Ministry’s Key Result Areas focus on strengthening policy, legal, and institutional frameworks to enhance governance structures. They include promoting capacity development, research, and innovations to foster skills enhancement and new solutions in the industry. Resource mobilization and investment remain central to attracting funding and sustainable growth, alongside the development, diversification, marketing, and promotion of unique tourism products to elevate Kenya’s global appeal.
Other critical areas include safeguarding ecosystem integrity and fostering human-wildlife coexistence to maintain ecological balance. Addressing climate change and adapting to emerging challenges is also a priority, as is ensuring access to and the sustainable use of tourism and wildlife resources.
Joined by Principal Secretary Alfred Museiya, Miano expressed the ministry’s resolve to champion these priorities. “As we begin the year, taking stock of our progress and realigning our execution strategies is key. These areas are vital in driving the sustainable growth of Kenya’s tourism and wildlife sectors,” she said.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders from KWS and other departments to appraise the ministry’s plans and ensure coordinated efforts in delivering on its mandate.
The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife remains committed to positioning Kenya as a global leader in sustainable tourism while safeguarding its rich biodiversity for future generations.
Hon. Mary Otucho Emaase, the Member of Parliament for Teso South, has extended her heartfelt congratulations to the KCSE Class of 2024, applauding their remarkable achievements and resilience in navigating their academic journey.
In her message, Hon. Emaase celebrated the dedication and hard work of all students who received their KCSE results, noting that this milestone marks the beginning of a promising new chapter in their lives.
The MP also acknowledged the efforts of the Optiven Foundation in supporting bright minds across the country. “A special shout-out to the brilliant minds supported by the Optiven Foundation. Your success is our pride, and we are honored to have been part of your journey,” she said, commending the organization for its role in nurturing future leaders.
On a personal note, Hon. Emaase expressed immense joy and gratitude as her own son emerged among the top achievers. “His stellar performance is a testament to God’s grace and the unwavering support of family and mentors,” she remarked, emphasizing the importance of a strong support system in achieving academic excellence.
To all students, Hon. Emaase offered words of encouragement, urging them to view their results as a solid foundation for future success. “Embrace the knowledge, wisdom, and understanding you’ve gained, and let them guide you as you ascend the ladder of life,” she advised.
She concluded her message with a blessing for the Class of 2024, wishing them success, favor, and divine protection as they embark on the next phase of their journey. “May you become the visionary leaders who will propel Africa to new heights,” she said.
Benter Opande is the Chief Executive Officer of Kenya Women Teachers Association (KEWOTA). She delves into the crucial topic of the importance of career choice and guidance thereto: “The task of choosing a career is a very vital and challenging moment. Every parent or guardian, when his or her child transits at the secondary school level of education, begins to worry about the career that the child is going to follow. Now that the 2024 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education Exam Results are out, the question that many candidates are asking themselves is, what next? The work that was done by The Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC) in collaboration with The Ministry of Education Science and Technology (MOEST) and The Teachers Service Commission (TSC), towards the preparation of 2024 candidates and the processing of all exams is indeed a milestone that is worth appreciating. If a candidate still doesn’t have any idea what she or he wants to do, the task of choosing a career may seem insurmountable. Fortunately, it is not if enough thought is put into it, an undecided candidate will increase his or her chances of making a good career decision. It’s challenging to tell what a child will become while they are still in school. There are those children who are exceptionally gifted and if presented with the right environment, parents don’t have to worry much since they will finally carve their own niche – in life. For the so-called ordinary children, they have two main career pathways; the secure path such as salaried occupation and the insecure pathway such as self-employment which has high risks. For children with adventurous impulses, these depend on the individual’s efforts so as to achieve their full potential. However, for those who want to go into independent professions, they must prepare to remain in them to the end. How do you determine career goals and career planning? The career choice that you make has a large influence in your life, so doing a self-assessment about yourself is very necessary. You need to have correct answers to some important questions such as what do you want? What are you good at? What is a career choice? What are your personality (character) and values (principals)? and what skills and abilities (competencies) do you possess? Career choice is the process of choosing a career path which can involve choices regarding education and training for a given career. There are a number of ways to define a career and the term is used in a variety of ways. A career is a job or profession that gives one an opportunity to progress in some ways that are important to a person. A career is very important to you; constitutes your purpose in life; is a process of personal discovery, self-expression and self-assertion and defines your lifestyle. A career involves transforming your dreams and wishes into achievements, believing in yourself, your unique talents and characteristics, turning your aspirations into achievements and believing that you can become anything that you aspire to be. The days when careers were solely determined by parents, by birth, caste or hereditary have long gone. A career helps you to earn a living, fulfil a demand for skilled labor, enhance your skills, propagate your knowledge and skills, create wealth, keep fit and healthy, make a personal contribution to the society and to fulfill your purpose – self-actualization in life. In the world allover, there are six broad categories of careers in which different people fit in. The six broad categories of careers in which different people fit in are, realistic, investigative, artistic, social, enterprising and conventional careers. Realistic careers Realistic careers are skills and technical oriented. They involve tangible; authentic or mechanical abilities; practical skills; working with tools, machines, plants and animals. They attract people who are highly practical and physically strong, who enjoy dealing with things rather than people. They enjoy working outdoors. Such individuals are good in technical subjects like agriculture, metalwork, woodwork, home science, technical drawing, drawing, and design. They excel in careers such as engineering, wildlife management, wood science and technology, military and technician. Investigative Careers Investigative careers are scientific and laboratory-oriented. They involve high curiosity, intellectual input and empirical approach to issues. Involves high value on observation; studying; learning; analyzing facts; solving puzzles; dealing with charts, numbers, formulae, graphs, data processing, evaluating, interpreting and solving complex problems through scientific thinking. Such individuals do so well in leadership positions, social gatherings and activities, are good in mathematics, sciences and business studies. They excel in careers such as medicine, architecture, microbiology, criminal investigations, accounting, statistical analysis, money, financial, veterinary, zoology, computer science, ICT, design engineer, social scientist, research, laboratory work, physicist, technical writer and meteorologist. Artistic Careers Artistic careers are arts oriented, creative, expressive skills and aesthetically conscious. They value working free of rules and regulations, like use of their free imaginations, are highly original, emotional, non-conforming, unconventional, independent, idealist and introspective, like taking risks, like producing distinct products. Such individuals are good in languages, literature, drawing and designs, music and acting. They excel as artists, authors, cartoonists, composers, singers, drama and theatre actors, home decorating, fabric designing and photography.
Social Careers Social careerists value working with people; have an inner urge for helping others; like informing, helping, training, enlightening, arbitrating, developing or caring for people, organizing other people, skilled at talking with the people that they serve, are sociable, friendly, understanding, empathetic, generous, helpful, cooperative, responsible, hardworking, often sober, welfare – minded and articulate. Such individuals are good in languages, literature, humanities, can be good in sciences if they put more interest and effort in them. They excel in careers such as administration, education, law, theology, journalism, mass – communication, human and public relations, political science and related fields, guidance and counselling, and psychologists. Enterprising Careers Enterprising careers involve influencing and persuading or performing for others, goal and profit orientation. They are enterprising, ambitious, talkative, argumentative, domineering, energetic, self-confident, optimistic, sociable, competitive, impulsive, persuasive, enjoy chatting debates, groups meetings and committees, often run for elected offices, head important functions and motivate others. Such individuals are good in mathematics, business studies, science and they excel in careers like business management, sales and marketing, hotel management, poli tics, industrial consultancy and related fields. Conventional Careers Conventional careers involve highly orderly, routine and practical jobs, often there are some inflexible activities. Excellent individuals have a ‘common denominator ‘: obedient, practical, calm, orderly, carry out instructions, and work with final details. Such individuals are good in business studies, computer, office practice, home science and sciences. They excel in the business world such as bankers, bookkeepers, accountants, financial analysts, computer operators, statisticians, auditing, inventory controls, store keeping, secretarial, and office management. The right preparation for a career should start right in secondary school. A candidate should choose the right subjects required for higher education training in a particular career much earlier before they get to their final year. In addition to KCSE, a candidate should know the jobs on the decline such as clerical, secretarial are fading away due to computerization. There are ‘specialized professions’ like doctors, accountants, ICT and engineering while there are those professions ‘in demand’ like business management and consultancy. There are many young people who do not have opportunities for development of their talents and gifts; and fail to receive proper education and never get a chance to show their true worth – unfortunately never reach self-actualization. In conclusion, to make a good career choice starts a personal assessment of yourself, your personal values, interests, abilities and preferences, ‘ample time should be taken to do so’. For some people, ‘taking a career or aptitude test’ assists in identifying the right career. Sometimes, highly talented or gifted young people have been dragged by necessity and circumstances into careers which they never liked or expected to do. Such should only happen in backward societies. Career choice is an individual choice. It is him or her alone who will live with the desired career and not another person, but others can be of help to the learner when need arises. Some of the people who can be of help to a candidate include parents – who help a learner make up their mind or introduce her or him to a career, teachers (loco parentis) – who guide and give learners information and people in the field you desire to join. Preferably, it is very important for a candidate to be equipped with universal skills and qualities. These are like computer literacy, interpersonal skills, foreign language and driving skills among others. A career is an individual’s metaphorical “journey” through learning, work and other aspects of life. “Those persons who do not think in advance of their future and do not plan their course of action, are liable to fail in life. In the modern age, all men and women are free to choose any career according to their taste, liking and aptitude and should decide as early as possible. A candidate must be careful and prepared about sticking to the career that he or she has chosen for herself/ himself because “a rolling stone gathers no moss’.
Last evening, Hon. Rebecca Miano, the Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, joined friends, family, and dignitaries to honor the outgoing CEO of the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), Rt. Major Twalib, as he retired after an industrious 41 years of public service. The event, rich in reflection and camaraderie, offered a poignant moment to celebrate the remarkable legacy of a leader who has epitomized integrity and honor.
In her tribute, CS Miano expressed profound admiration for Major Twalib, drawing from the words of Irish poet and playwright Oscar Wilde, who once said, “Some cause happiness wherever they go; others whenever they go.” She remarked that Major Twalib undoubtedly belongs to the former category, spreading positivity and leaving a transformative impact at every station he has served.
Having worked alongside Major Twalib in a previous docket, CS Miano spoke of his exceptional leadership and commitment to excellence. “Under Mr. Twalib’s stewardship, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission has achieved unprecedented growth, cultivating a culture of honor and integrity, traits rarely associated with many public institutions,” she noted.
Reflecting on his four decades of service, CS Miano highlighted the indelible mark Major Twalib has left on Kenya’s governance landscape. “His footsteps will undoubtedly guide those who carry forward the torch of integrity, accountability, and justice,” she said. “The best way to honor him is to ensure that the values he championed remain our guiding light as we serve the people of our motherland.”
The event also provided CS Miano with an opportunity to reconnect with former colleagues, mentors, and friends, reinforcing the importance of shared experiences and relationships in public service.
As she concluded her tribute, CS Miano lauded Major Twalib’s exemplary service and unwavering dedication to Kenya. “We celebrate you, Major! Your legacy will continue to inspire us and illuminate the path for future generations,” she affirmed.
In celebrating Major Twalib’s retirement, Hon. CS Rebecca Miano reminded all present of the enduring importance of ethical leadership and the profound impact one dedicated individual can have on a nation.
The CEO of Women Enterprise Fund (WEF), Rachael Musyoki, alongside Board Member Yvonne Tonkei, visited the Salem Sisters Self-Help Group in Kamukunji Constituency yesterday. The group, which specializes in producing uniforms and assorted textiles, recently received their first loan of Kshs. 100,000 under the relaunched WEF Tuinuke Loan program.
Accompanying the CEO were key members of the WEF team, including Ms. Everlyne Lusweti, Manager of Marketing, Research, and Communication; Ms. Anne Muturi, Nairobi Region Credit Coordinator; and Mr. Karani, Credit Assistant for Kamukunji.
Earlier in the day, the WEF team paid a courtesy call to the Deputy County Commissioner’s office, where they were warmly received by Assistant County Commissioner Mr. Steve Mwonge. This visit highlighted WEF’s commitment to collaborating with local administration to enhance service delivery and extend its reach to women across the constituency.
The Women Enterprise Fund resumed its lending services to registered women groups in December 2024, offering loans ranging from Kshs. 100,000 to Kshs. 750,000. These interest-free loans come with only a 6% administrative fee, making them accessible and affordable for women’s groups looking to grow their businesses.
In her remarks, CEO Rachael Musyoki emphasized the Fund’s dedication to empowering women and fostering economic growth through financial inclusion. “We encourage all registered women groups to visit our offices in every constituency, located within ACC/DCC grounds, to learn more about these transformative loans and how they can benefit their ventures,” she said.
The visit to Salem Sisters Self-Help Group exemplifies WEF’s ongoing efforts to uplift women entrepreneurs, enabling them to expand their businesses and contribute meaningfully to Kenya’s economy.
Together with partners such as the Uwezo Fund, National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF), and other stakeholders, the Women Enterprise Fund continues to drive impactful change, ensuring women across the country have access to the resources they need to thrive.
For more information on how to access WEF loans, women groups are encouraged to engage with their local WEF representatives and take advantage of this life-changing initiative.
The Chairperson of the Kenya National Association of Private Colleges (KENAPCO), Dr. Ekrah Ndung’u, has urged individuals to remain consistent and focused on achieving their goals, warning against the common tendency to abandon resolutions soon after the New Year begins.
Speaking during an event, Dr. Ndung’u highlighted that while setting goals and creating momentum is essential, many people lose focus by the second Friday of January—a day commonly referred to as “Quitter’s Day.” This day marks the time when New Year resolutions start to fade for most.
“I’m a firm believer in setting goals, creating momentum, and taking consistent action. But here’s the truth: no matter how motivated we are on January 1st, most people start to lose steam by the second Friday of the year,” she said.
Dr. Ndung’u emphasized the importance of consistency in maintaining long-term success, comparing it to a football match where celebrations must wait until the final whistle.
“Success expires,” she cautioned. “As soon as you hit one goal, park it and keep trying to hit the next one. Ask football coaches—they know this! Until the final whistle is blown, there’s no room for complacency.”
Referring to a prestigious award she had recently received, Dr. Ndung’u termed it her “expired success,” stating it was now part of her history and legacy for her grandchildren.
“This award here is my expired success—it’s now history for my grandchildren. What matters is what I do next, not what I achieved yesterday,” she remarked.
Dr. Ndung’u’s message is a powerful reminder that success is not a one-time achievement but a continuous journey that requires determination and perseverance.
The Matatu Owners Association (MOA) has raised alarm over widespread corruption, extortion, and harassment of Public Service Vehicle (PSV) operators by traffic police, judicial officers, and their accomplices. Speaking on behalf of the association, MOA President Mr. Albert Karakacha decried the escalating impunity within the transport sector, calling for urgent anti-corruption interventions to address the issue.
On January 3, 2025, Hudson Njoroge of City Shuttle and Daniel Ouma of Oma Services Limited were arrested by traffic officers from Makongeni Police Station along Jogoo Road. The charges against them—alleged obstruction and picking passengers on the roadside—resulted in court appearances on January 6, where they were denied cash bail and subjected to bond terms of Ksh 50,000. The bond required property documents such as a car logbook or title deed, leaving many operators unable to secure their release.
Mr. Karakacha condemned these terms as excessive, emphasizing that the Traffic (Minor Offenses) Rules cap the penalties for obstruction and illegal passenger pickup at Ksh 10,000 and Ksh 3,000, respectively. “The prolonged detention of drivers who cannot meet these exorbitant demands is a blatant abuse of power and victimization,” he said.
Further allegations have surfaced implicating a corrupt syndicate involving a magistrate at court number 8, court clerk Mr. Amin, and traffic officer Madam Naomi from Makongeni Police Station. This group is accused of colluding to extort bribes from drivers, promising lenient treatment or expedited release in exchange.
On January 7, Hudson Njoroge reportedly paid a bribe of Ksh 25,000 and a cash bail of Ksh 5,000 to secure his release. However, Daniel Ouma remains in custody after Oma Services Limited’s request for cash bail was denied. Matatu operators allege that those who refuse to pay bribes face punitive bond terms and extended remand periods, crippling their livelihoods.
“This level of corruption is unacceptable,” Mr. Karakacha declared. “It undermines the rule of law and exploits hardworking Kenyans who rely on this sector for their daily bread. We demand immediate investigations into these allegations and decisive action against traffic officer Naomi, court clerk Amin, and the implicated magistrate.”
The MOA has pledged to escalate the matter to the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to ensure accountability. Operators along Jogoo Road have also vowed to support anti-corruption efforts to restore fairness and integrity within the transport sector.
“We call on the government and all relevant bodies to prioritize the fight against corruption in the transport sector. This harassment and exploitation must stop,” Mr. Karakacha concluded.
