Author: staff reporter

By John Kariuki

The Kenya Women Teachers Association (KEWOTA) has raised serious concerns over President William Ruto’s recent Cabinet reshuffle, accusing it of violating constitutional principles of inclusivity and gender equity.

Benter Opande, KEWOTA’s Chief Executive Officer, criticized the appointments, describing them as elitist and discriminatory. She argued that the changes, which are being presented as “broad-based” and “all-inclusive,” fail to meet constitutional standards for gender balance and regional diversity. According to her, this not only undermines the spirit of the Constitution but also denies women equal opportunities to serve in leadership positions.

A key point of contention is the continued vacancy in the Gender Ministry. Since the dismissal of Aisha Jumwa, the ministry has remained without a substantive Cabinet Secretary. Opande emphasized that Kenya has many qualified women with impeccable track records who are ready and willing to serve. “We have women with no political baggage, fresh blood who can contribute to the country’s progress. Their exclusion is unjustifiable,” she stated.

Opande further highlighted the constitutional violations in the reshuffle, citing Articles 10, 27, and 130 of the Constitution. She explained that Article 10 emphasizes inclusivity and equity as national values, while Article 27 (8) requires that no more than two-thirds of appointive bodies consist of the same gender. Article 130 (2) demands that the national executive reflect the regional and ethnic diversity of Kenya. “These appointments clearly fail to align with these constitutional requirements,” she added.

The reshuffle, announced on Thursday, 19th December 2024, included notable nominations such as former Health CS Mutahi Kagwe to the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, former Nakuru Governor Lee Kinyanjui as CS for Investments, Trade, and Industry, and former Kiambu Governor William Kabogo as CS for Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy. These appointments have already been forwarded to the National Assembly for vetting and approval.

While some have praised the reshuffle as a strategic political move aimed at fostering unity, others, including KEWOTA, have criticized it for undermining the principles of gender equity and regional representation. Opande reiterated that the president has an obligation to adhere to constitutional mandates and urged him to consider the inclusion of competent women in his administration.

As the country waits for the National Assembly’s decision, KEWOTA remains steadfast in its advocacy for gender equality and inclusivity in public service. The association has called on the government to ensure compliance with constitutional provisions, noting that this is essential for the nation’s progress and unity.

In a compelling address presented at the Kenya Chamber of Mines (KCM) annual conference, Dr. Kanyoro Patrick, the Chairman of KCM, outlined critical reforms he believes are necessary to transform the country’s mining industry within the next six months. Highlighting an array of challenges,Kanyoro asserted that a paradigm shift is essential to foster growth and rejuvenate investor confidence in Kenya’s mineral sector.

“We are currently shackled by a colonial relic of a framework that does not reflect the contemporary needs of our stakeholders,” Kinyoro stated, emphasizing the urgent need for a new mining law rather than mere amendments to the existing Mining Act of 2016. “To achieve different results in 2025 and beyond, we must create new legal and fiscal tools that are designed for miners, not against them,” he stressed.

Kanyoro pointed out that the Artisanal and Small-Scale Miners (ASMs) are vital to the livelihoods of nearly one million Kenyans and require formalization and professionalization to enhance their contributions to the economy. He lamented the high-handed approach of the Ministry of Mining’s State Department, which he claims monopolizes knowledge while sidelining essential input from industry stakeholders. “Collaboration and inclusivity are not just ideal; they are necessary for meaningful progress,” he insisted.

Another significant concern raised was the manipulation of the Open Cadastral System, which has fostered distrust among both local and foreign investors. Kinyoro called for an independent audit for the years 2020 to 2024 to restore transparency and confidence in the sector.

The Chairman also denounced the ongoing withholding of the airborne geological survey report, which he argued has created an unlevel playing field wherein only a privileged few access crucial information while the broader community remains disadvantaged. Kinyoro highlighted the detrimental impact of the Strategic Minerals Regulations of 2017, which has left miners with stockpiles of valuable minerals, cash that they should be able to reinvest into their operations.

He expressed particular concern regarding the proposed Mining Regulations of 2024, warning that they could stifle the industry at a crucial stage of its development. This issue, he noted, is currently subject to a court petition filed by KCM, with a hearing scheduled for January 16, 2025.

Kanyoro also critiqued the State Department’s push for State Equity Participation and Free Carried Interest, warning that unrealistic conditions risk alienating the very investors the government needs to foster a vibrant mining sector. He signaled KCM’s willingness to engage both executive and judicial branches to seek clarity on these issues.

Additionally, he addressed the demoralization of staff within the State Department of Mining, warning that this trend could hinder the ministry’s ability to deliver on its mandates and ultimately affect the political favorability of the government. “A motivated workforce is the lifeblood of our industry. If the employees are demoralized, the consequences for governance and public sentiment could be dire,” he cautioned.

Kanyoro concluded his address by emphasizing the need for a policy shift towards public-centered service delivery, asserting that such change does not necessitate new funding from the National Treasury. “A collaborative relationship between state and private sectors is not optional; it is imperative for our progress. The question remains, what must we do differently to achieve the results we desire?” he queried.

In a rallying cry, he urged stakeholders to take ownership of the future of Kenya’s mining industry. “Mining is our business, and our business is mining. Together, let us push for our rightful space and make change our currency,” Kanyoro declared.

With these ambitious goals set forth, the KCM looks ahead, hoping to spearhead transformative reforms that will elevate Kenya’s mining sector, ultimately creating more wealth and job opportunities for the nation.

By John Kariuki

As the festive season kicks off, the Matatu Owners Association, led by its President Hon. Albert Karakacha, has issued an important advisory for travelers and road users. With millions of Kenyans embarking on holiday journeys to visit family and friends, the association is emphasizing the need for caution and adherence to road safety measures to prevent accidents during this busy period.

“Travelling for the holidays? Plan your route ahead of time and ensure your vehicle is roadworthy. When driving, keep left unless carefully overtaking,” advised President Karakacha

The association further noted that road accidents tend to increase significantly during the holiday season and urged all road users to be extra vigilant. To help ensure safer travels, they offered additional tips:

Avoid Overspeeding: Speeding remains a major cause of road accidents. Drivers are urged to maintain safe speeds, especially on busy highways and in adverse weather.

Observe Road Courtesy: Respect other road users by giving way when needed and avoiding aggressive driving.

Take Regular Breaks: For long trips, drivers should rest periodically to avoid fatigue, which can impair judgment and reaction times.

Always Wear Seatbelts: Ensure that every passenger, including those in the back seat, wears a seatbelt at all times.

Drive Sober: Alcohol and drugs reduce focus and reaction time. Drivers must remain alert and sober throughout their journeys.

“During the holidays, we often witness a surge in road accidents, many of which could be avoided with simple precautions. Let’s work together to ensure every traveler gets to their destination safely,” emphasized the President.

The Matatu Owners Association also called on law enforcement to strictly enforce traffic regulations while remaining fair and supportive to drivers and passengers.

As Kenyans hit the roads this festive season, let us all commit to being responsible road users. By observing these safety guidelines, we can ensure a safe and joyous holiday for all. Travel safe, and happy holidays!

The Founder, MD & CEO of Together As One and Comfort Homes Dr. Hezekiah Kariuki has urged the youths to embrace technical courses so as to build their career and create wealth and finally become prosperous. Speaking at the Graduation Ceremony of Dykaan College in Ndumberi Stadium Kiambu County, Dr. Kariuki, citing an example of a course like catering: highlighted the lucrativeness of catering and food technology, terming it instrumental with the capability to catapult an entrepreneur to great heights.
“My message to the graduates here today is simple: Don’t compare yourself to anyone. Just start and put into plactice the knowledge you have acquired in this school to better your life and with patience and determination, youll truly merge victorious.”
Dr. Kariuki’s sentiments comes at a time when the Government is implementing several key initiatives designed to strengthen the TVET sector, widen access to TVET as well as to improve the quality of programs in TVET institutions.
To ensure that TVET programs remain relevant to the evolving technological changes in the market, the Government has continued to partner with various industries in curriculum development, assessment, industrial practice and continuous curriculum reviewing.

By John Kariuki

The Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) Board of Directors and management team are currently attending a critical training program on Finance for Non-Finance Managers and Enterprise Risk Management (ERM). The training is taking place at Serena Beach Resort, Mombasa, from December 16 to 20, 2024.

This initiative, spearheaded by KEPHIS Board Chairman Hon. Joseph M’Eruaki and Managing Director Prof. Theophilus Mutui, demonstrates the organization’s unwavering commitment to leadership excellence and organizational resilience.

Aligned with the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) of 2012 and ISO 31000:2018 standards, the program aims to equip the leadership with essential skills to strengthen governance, accountability, and strategic oversight.

The Finance for Non-Finance Managers module focuses on enhancing practical financial skills, such as interpreting financial statements, understanding audit processes, detecting irregularities, and aligning financial strategies with organizational objectives. The ERM training emphasizes setting risk tolerance levels, identifying critical risk indicators, and fostering a proactive risk-aware culture within KEPHIS.

This comprehensive training ensures that KEPHIS leadership is well-prepared to make informed decisions, maintain compliance, and drive sustainable growth. By enhancing capacity in finance and risk management, the organization is better positioned to ensure excellence in plant health and agricultural quality standards, ultimately supporting Kenya’s agricultural sector.

This initiative underscores KEPHIS’s dedication to transparency, capacity building, and effective resource management as it continues to pursue its vision of organizational excellence and long-term success.

Deputy Spokesperson Government of Kenya Mwanaisha Chidzuga says Today, I was privileged to host Deputy President Prof. @KindikiKithure at my home when he graced Senator Danson Mungatana’s thanksgiving ceremony and official opening of newly constructed classrooms at Arap Moi Primary School, Tana River County.

I appreciated residents for electing senator Mungatana and urged them to register with [Social Health Authority] SHA that will assist them in accessing quality health care services.

The overall winner of the 2024 Road Music Challenge has been announced, ending an exhilarating one-month musical talent search that attracted a record-breaking 142 submissions from across the country.

Hassan Suleiman emerged as the ultimate champion, clinching the grand prize of a brand-new Yamaha FZ 150 motorbike. The first runner-up, Moses Ooko was awarded KShs. 200,000, while the second runner-up Damaris Mulumbe received KShs. 100,000, in recognition of their outstanding performances.

This year’s competition, open to all Kenyan citizens aged 18 and above, required participants to create and share unique musical performances around a beat. Contestants were tasked with downloading the official tune from CFAO Mobility Kenya’s social media pages or website, crafting a performance that included the phrase “Rev with Yamaha,” and uploading their videos to their social media accounts. Participants also tagged Yamaha by CFAO Mobility Kenya and three friends, while using hashtags such as #YamahaByCFAOKe, #RoadMusicChallengeKE, and their preferred Yamaha motorbike hashtag.

The finalists were selected through a rigorous judging process led by celebrated musician Wyre Da Love Child, Rapper Nazizi and renowned producer Riccobeatz. Their expertise ensured that the competition highlighted Kenya’s best and brightest musical talent.

Speaking at the finals, Yamaha Brand Manager, Cleon Oguya, celebrated the overwhelming response to this year’s edition of the Road Music Challenge.

“This year’s competition has been an incredible success, with 142 submissions showcasing the immense musical talent and creativity across the country. The level of engagement on our platforms was phenomenal, with millions of interactions as Kenyans connected with the Yamaha brand. Our commitment to nurturing local talent and celebrating the spirit of innovation and freedom remains unwavering. Congratulations to all our participants and finalists who made this journey unforgettable,” said Mr. Oguya.

The Road Music Challenge is part of CFAO Mobility Kenya’s broader vision of creating meaningful engagement opportunities with customers across diverse touchpoints. Yamaha, known for its high-quality and reliable motorcycles, continues to inspire freedom and adventure, making it a trusted companion for countless riders globally.

Kimani wa Makaratasi, who is the Chief Executive Officer, CO-Founder and President of JAMII product and Jamii product ltd has taken a moment to offer a golden tip of advice to the youths as we approach the festive season:
“5 Essential Tips to Manage Your Finances This Festive Season
The festive season is a time for joy, celebration, and togetherness. However, it can also be a season of overspending and financial strain if not managed wisely. As the year comes to a close, here are some practical tips to help you celebrate responsibly while safeguarding your financial health:

1. Set a Holiday Budget and Stick to It
   Before you dive into the festivities, take time to outline a detailed budget. Identify all your holiday expenses, such as gifts, food, travel, decorations, and entertainment. Allocate a specific amount to each category and, most importantly, stick to it.
   • Pro Tip: Use budgeting apps to track your expenses in real time. This will help you stay disciplined and avoid overspending.
2. Shop Smart and Early
   Last-minute shopping often leads to impulse purchases and higher costs. Plan your shopping ahead of time to take advantage of discounts and sales. Compare prices across stores and online platforms to get the best deals.
   • Pro Tip: Consider group buying or bulk purchasing for gifts and groceries to save costs.
3. Focus on Needs, Not Wants
   It’s easy to get carried away during the festive season with extravagant purchases and elaborate celebrations. However, prioritize your essential expenses over discretionary spending.
   • Pro Tip: For gift-giving, consider thoughtful and affordable options, such as DIY gifts or personalized items, which are often more meaningful than expensive presents.
4. Avoid Relying on Credit
   Using credit cards might seem convenient, but it can lead to significant debt if not managed properly. Opt for cash or debit cards to control spending. If you do use credit, ensure you have a clear repayment plan to avoid high interest charges.
   • Pro Tip: Set alerts for due dates on credit card payments to avoid late fees.
5. Prepare for the Post-Holiday Season
   January often brings its own set of financial obligations—school fees, rent, utility bills, and more. Allocate a portion of your income to cover these expenses, ensuring you’re not caught off guard after the holidays.
   • Pro Tip: Create a “festive fund” earlier in the year to lessen the financial burden during the holiday season.

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Final Thoughts
The festive season is about creating memories, not financial stress. By planning ahead and being intentional with your spending, you can enjoy the holidays without compromising your financial stability. Remember, it’s not about how much you spend but how much thought and care you put into your celebrations.
This holiday season, let’s make smarter financial choices while spreading joy and love. Cheers to a financially savvy and fulfilling festive season!

By John Kariuki

On Friday morning, Nairobi County Woman Representative Esther Passaris took a significant step in the fight against gender-based violence (GBV) by handing over crucial work equipment to the 1195 GBV Call Centre. This donation underscores her continued commitment to improving the lives of survivors and bolstering efforts to address GBV in Kenya.

The National Gender-Based Violence Toll-Free Helpline, 1195, has become a vital lifeline for survivors of gender-based violence. As the first and only service of its kind in Kenya, the helpline offers a safe and confidential space for individuals to report incidents of abuse and access immediate, life-saving assistance. It has played a pivotal role in the country’s broader strategy to combat GBV and provide survivors with much-needed support.

Gender-based violence continues to be a pervasive issue in Kenya, affecting individuals from all walks of life. A 2022 report by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) revealed that over 40% of women aged 15-49 have experienced some form of physical violence, while 14% have faced sexual violence. These statistics, however, are likely underreported due to the social stigma and fear that often accompany these crimes.

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the GBV crisis, with a marked increase in domestic violence and child marriage cases during lockdowns. The 1195 helpline saw a staggering 360% rise in GBV-related calls in 2020, reflecting the urgent need for accessible support systems. By the end of that year, more than 6,000 survivors had reached out to the helpline, compared to just over 1,400 in 2019.

Esther Passaris’ support to the 1195 GBV Call Centre is an important step in ensuring that survivors of GBV have the resources and assistance they need to rebuild their lives. The equipment provided will enhance the centre’s capacity to handle calls and offer more efficient services to those in distress.

The 1195 helpline remains a critical component of Kenya’s response to gender-based violence, and the donation will undoubtedly play a role in strengthening its reach and effectiveness. As efforts to combat GBV continue to grow, the collaboration between government representatives like Passaris, civil society organizations, and survivors remains crucial in making progress toward a safer, more supportive environment for all.

By John Kariuki

Githunguri MP Hon. Gathoni Wamuchomba has raised concerns over the prolonged delay in appointing a Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Gender, a critical role that has remained vacant since July 5, 2024.

In a statement, Wamuchomba congratulated the newly appointed Cabinet Secretaries but expressed frustration over the continued absence of leadership in the Gender Ministry. “Congratulations to the newly appointed Cabinet Secretaries. However, we have been waiting for the appointment of the CS to be in charge of the Ministry of Gender since July 5, 2024. How can the newly established End Femicide Task Force function without a CS?” she questioned.

The End Femicide Task Force, created to address the rising cases of gender-based violence and femicide in the country, has faced operational challenges due to the leadership gap. Wamuchomba emphasized that the lack of a CS undermines the government’s commitment to addressing these pressing issues.

The MP also took note of the new appointees from Central Kenya, cryptically remarking, “Looking at the new faces from the Central region of Kenya, it’s evident mlima unateleza kweli (the mountain is indeed slippery).” Her comment appears to allude to perceived political shifts or declining representation of the region in key government positions.

Wamuchomba, a vocal advocate for women’s rights, has been at the forefront of calling out the government for failing to address rising cases of femicide and violence against women. Her latest remarks underscore the urgency of appointing a leader to spearhead efforts in combating gender-based violence and championing women’s rights.

The delay in filling the Gender Ministry position raises questions about the government’s priorities in addressing gender issues, leaving many Kenyans eagerly awaiting action.