Author: staff reporter

The National Assembly Committee on Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations, led by Hon Nelson Koech conducted an inspection tour of ongoing projects at the Kenya Navy Headquarters in Mombasa County.
The Committee met with Brig. M. S. Shemote, Commandant, Kenya Naval Fleet, Brig. Dr. J.M. Muinde, Chief of Naval Medical Services and Col. B. Karuimbo, Commandant, Kenya Navy Training School to assess progress on key infrastructural developments critical to the Navy’s operations.
According to submissions reviewed by the Committee, the Kenya Navy was established in 1964.
Lawmakers inspected jettys at the Kenya Shipyard Ltd and the nearly complete maternity wing at the Kenya Navy Hospital.
The Committee also reviewed the extension of the Mtongwe Jetty, renovation of officers’ accommodation, and the construction of additional classrooms at the Kenya Navy Training College and . an ultra-modern tree nursery designed to support environmental sustainability.
Committee Chair, Hon. Nelson Koech lauded the Navy for its role in safeguarding Kenya’s maritime interests and sovereignty. He acknowledged the importance of the Navy in securing the country’s maritime resources which support the Blue Economy and trade.
“The Navy plays an indispensable role in protecting our territorial waters and securing Kenya’s maritime interests. These projects are essential to modernizing our naval capacity and supporting Kenya’s economic aspirations particularly in growing our blue economy,” said Hon. Nelson Koech.
Members of the Committee pointed out the need for increased budgetary allocations to ensure the timely completion of all projects and further modernization of strategic assets.

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By John Kariuki

Under the leadership of its founder and CEO, Rosaline Gollo, Waso Hope Organization continues to champion the fight against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) through a transformative survivor-centered initiative in Kina Town. On November 29, 2024, the organization hosted a successful program aimed at empowering victims to heal, recover, and reclaim their dignity.

The event brought together representatives from women’s groups, religious leaders, and government administrators who have been instrumental in combating FGM and GBV in the region. Through her comprehensive and compassionate approach, Rosaline Gollo, HSC, highlighted the urgent need to reject outdated cultural practices and foster a community rooted in dignity, equality, and prosperity.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Gollo emphasized the importance of collective action, education, and survivor support in the fight against harmful practices. “We are here to inspire change, not only to support survivors but also to educate the community about the dire consequences of FGM and GBV. Together, we can build a future where no woman or girl has to endure such pain,” she said.

Participants lauded Waso Hope’s efforts, noting how the initiative has offered survivors a path to healing and recovery. The program also reinforced the community’s commitment to rejecting regressive cultural norms and embracing progress.

The occasion marked a significant milestone in the ongoing battle against FGM and GBV, underscoring the power of collaboration between grassroots organizations, faith leaders, and government authorities in driving societal transformation.

Rosaline Gollo’s relentless advocacy continues to inspire hope and courage among survivors and communities alike, signaling a brighter and more equitable future for all.

The National Assembly Committee on Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations, led by Hon Nelson Koech conducted an inspection tour of ongoing projects at the Kenya Navy Headquarters in Mombasa County.
The Committee met with Brig. M. S. Shemote, Commandant, Kenya Naval Fleet, Brig. Dr. J.M. Muinde, Chief of Naval Medical Services and Col. B. Karuimbo, Commandant, Kenya Navy Training School to assess progress on key infrastructural developments critical to the Navy’s operations.
According to submissions reviewed by the Committee, the Kenya Navy was established in 1964.
Lawmakers inspected jettys at the Kenya Shipyard Ltd and the nearly complete maternity wing at the Kenya Navy Hospital.
The Committee also reviewed the extension of the Mtongwe Jetty, renovation of officers’ accommodation, and the construction of additional classrooms at the Kenya Navy Training College and . an ultra-modern tree nursery designed to support environmental sustainability.
Committee Chair, Hon. Nelson Koech lauded the Navy for its role in safeguarding Kenya’s maritime interests and sovereignty. He acknowledged the importance of the Navy in securing the country’s maritime resources which support the Blue Economy and trade.
“The Navy plays an indispensable role in protecting our territorial waters and securing Kenya’s maritime interests. These projects are essential to modernizing our naval capacity and supporting Kenya’s economic aspirations particularly in growing our blue economy,” said Hon. Nelson Koech.
Members of the Committee pointed out the need for increased budgetary allocations to ensure the timely completion of all projects and further modernization of strategic assets.

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By John Kariuki

A day after President William Ruto was elected as the new Chairperson of the East African Community (EAC), succeeding South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir, messages of goodwill continue to pour in from leaders across the region.

Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano was among those who congratulated President Ruto on his new role, praising his commitment to regional integration and collaboration.

“Congratulations H.E. Dr. William Samoei Ruto on becoming the new Chairperson of the East African Community. We look forward to seeing the positive impact of your guidance in strengthening collaboration and advancing shared goals across East Africa,” she said.

The Hon. CS, who previously served as the Cabinet Secretary for East African Community and Regional Integration, emphasized the significance of President Ruto’s appointment.

“This is a significant achievement that reflects your dedication and commitment to regional integration and collaboration. Your leadership has made you a true champion of the East African Community, and we are confident that under your guidance, the community will continue to thrive and make strides towards greater unity and development,” she added.

President Ruto’s election comes at a pivotal moment for the EAC, as the region seeks to deepen integration, boost trade, and foster peace and stability. Leaders and citizens alike are optimistic that his leadership will usher in a new era of progress and cooperation among member states.

As the torch is passed from President Salva Kiir, whose one-year tenure has come to a close, all eyes are now on President Ruto to deliver on the promise of a more unified and prosperous EAC.

Caption: Drama festival and music to create awareness about donkeys.

The Donkey Sanctuary is honored to be part of the Lamu Cultural Festival this year, a celebration of the hardworking donkeys that have played an essential role in shaping the county’s history, economy, and resilience.

The festival, which runs from November 29 to December 1, 2024, showcases Lamu’s rich Swahili heritage with a range of activities, including dhow races, traditional Swahili cuisine, bao games, henna painting, cultural performances, and craft exhibitions. Amidst these vibrant celebrations, one unsung hero takes center stage: the donkey.

In recognition of the important role donkeys play in Lamu’s community, The Donkey Sanctuary is hosting a series of music and drama performances under the theme: “Celebrating Our Donkeys Is Celebrating Our Culture.” These performances aim to shine a spotlight on the vital contributions donkeys make to daily life in Lamu, while advocating for their welfare. As the saying goes, “What is Lamu without its donkeys?”

For generations, donkeys have been at the heart of Lamu’s cultural and economic life, participating in popular events such as the festival’s donkey races. However, their essential role in daily activities is often overlooked. Donkeys are crucial for transporting goods and people, pulling carts loaded with stones for construction on Manda Island, and even delivering water to rural homes. They also provide companionship to many families in Lamu. As Mr. Somo, a proud donkey owner from Mkomani, puts it, “Donkeys built this town, and we live by the donkey.” Mr. Abubakar from Kashmir adds, “Donkeys provide us with our daily needs and give us our heritage.”

For over 35 years, The Donkey Sanctuary has been dedicated to supporting Lamu’s donkeys. Through its free veterinary clinic on Lamu Island, the organization provides essential care to over 3,000 donkeys annually, helping to keep these hardworking animals healthy and strong. The Sanctuary also offers education and advocacy on donkey welfare to ensure their well-being.

As we come together to celebrate Lamu’s cultural richness, let us also honor the donkeys—unsung heroes whose contributions are deeply woven into the fabric of the community. By celebrating our donkeys, we are truly celebrating our culture.

About The Donkey Sanctuary

The Donkey Sanctuary is a global animal welfare charity dedicated to improving the lives of donkeys and mules. With over 7,000 donkeys in its care across the UK and Europe, and through its international programs and partnerships, the organization works towards a world where every donkey has a good quality of life. Since 1987, The Donkey Sanctuary has been working in Kenya to improve the welfare of donkeys, while supporting the livelihoods of those who depend on them for daily sustenance.

By John Kariuki

Githunguri Member of Parliament, Hon. Gathoni Wamuchomba, has once again demonstrated her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of Kenyan women by launching the Heshimu Uzazi Campaign and the groundbreaking Stop OBV Call Centre. In her speech, she emphasized, “Respectable maternal healthcare is a fundamental right for every Kenyan woman,” and this initiative is a key step toward ensuring that every woman has access to safe, respectful, and responsive maternal services.

The Stop OBV Call Centre provides a vital platform for women to report and receive real-time interventions in cases of Obstetric Violence (OBV), a critical issue that affects many women during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. The initiative will empower women to engage with healthcare providers directly and ensure their voices are heard, particularly in situations where their rights have been violated.

Colleague Members of Parliament as well as MCA’s
Congratulated Wamuchomba for her visionary leadership and dedication to this cause. The launch of the OBV Call Centre marks a significant milestone in the fight to improve reproductive healthcare in Kenya and beyond. This pioneering initiative is set to transform the experience of women and girls seeking maternal and reproductive health services, providing them with the support they need during one of the most important phases of their lives.

Gathoni Wamuchomba, amplifies voices of like-minded organizations advocating for human rights and reproductive justice, is honored to be a partner in this noble journey.

Wamuchomba is also synergizing efforts of other stakeholders working to ensure that women receive the care, respect, and dignity they deserve during pregnancy and childbirth.

“Together, we are setting a new standard for maternal healthcare in the region, one that prioritizes the well-being of women and girls and holds healthcare providers accountable.

This is not just a campaign—it’s a movement for change. We are committed to pushing for the recognition of Obstetric Violence (OBV) as a critical issue by the African Union and advocating for bold, decisive actions to eliminate OBV across the continent. The Heshimu Uzazi Campaign, combined with the OBV Call Centre, is a powerful catalyst for transforming maternal and reproductive healthcare in Kenya and across Africa.

As we move forward, we envision a future where no woman has to suffer in silence and where maternal healthcare is delivered with the utmost dignity, respect, and professionalism. We will continue to fight for systemic change to ensure that every woman has access to quality healthcare and that OBV is no longer a silent epidemic.
Change begins now. Together, we can make a difference.”

Reverend Frederick Ngugi, a leading voice in the Association of Pentecostal and Evangelical Clergy of Kenya (APECK), has endorsed the concept of self-regulation among religious institutions, calling it a progressive move toward safeguarding the sanctity of worship.

Speaking on the matter, Rev. Ngugi emphasized the critical role self-regulation plays in upholding freedom of worship while ensuring accountability within faith communities.

“This is the way to go,” he noted. “Self-regulation not only protects freedom of worship but also ensures that we, as spiritual leaders, remain accountable to our faith communities and the broader society.”

Rev. Ngugi’s sentiments align with calls from other prominent clergy, including Bishop Thagana, who also serves as the General Secretary of the Evangelical and Indigenous Christian Churches of Kenya (EICCK). Together, they are championing a united front among religious leaders to create guidelines that balance ethical practices with respect for the autonomy of worship centers.

The push for self-regulation is seen as a way to address growing concerns about governance and ethical standards in some religious organizations, while also preserving the fundamental right to worship freely.

Religious leaders are now advocating for collaboration and dialogue to establish a framework that promotes trust, strengthens unity, and fosters accountability within Kenya’s diverse faith community. This, they believe, is a vital step toward maintaining the integrity of worship and reinforcing the positive role of religion in society.

by Tum David

Naivas Supermarket and Airtel Money (Kenya) have signed a partnership deal that will see Airtel Money expand its agent network in all the 109 branches of Naivas countrywide. The ambitious deal will allow Airtel Money customera to deposit and withdraw cash across all the Naivas outlets in the country. The deal is part of Airtel Money’s proactive strategy to expand its agent footprint and get closer to the customer. ” We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Airtel Money, enabling our customers to conveniently deposit and withdraw cash across all our 109 branches”, said Peter Mukuha, the Naivas Chief of Operations. On his his part, Airtel Kenya Managing Director Ashish Malhotra, highlighted the partnership’s impact in aligning with the company’s mission to prioritize customer convenience.

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Monday, November 25th, 2024: New research examining legal and policy frameworks governing Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, South Sudan, Mauritius, and Zambia has called for immediate legislative action to keep pace with AI adoption on the continent.

“It is evident that without swift and comprehensive legislative action, the region risks falling behind in AI’s ethical and effective governance, which has significant implications for human rights and societal well-being,” the report warns.

These are findings arising from the research conducted by Paradigm Initiative. It was prepared by four law firms, including K-Solutions Partners (ALN-Rwanda), providing support in Rwanda, ALP East Africa providing support in Uganda, South Sudan Bowmans providing support in Mauritius, Tanzania, Zambia and Triple OK Law providing support in Kenya. ALP East Africa coordinated it.

This legal research was facilitated by TrustLaw, the Thomson Reuters Foundation’s global pro bono network.

Commenting on the report’s launch, ‘Gbenga Sesan, Paradigm Initiative’s Executive Director, said the research was timely as it is coming at a time when the usage of Artificial Intelligence is on the rise. “We must laud the efforts of every organisation or individual who made this possible as the findings are of the essence and quite useful. It is my appeal to all stakeholders to play a role in ensuring legislative action so we are not left behind.”

The study indicates that AI is gaining momentum across the seven countries, especially in the agriculture, healthcare and telecommunication sectors. The report was launched at the ALP AI Forum taking place in Kampala, Uganda, between 25th November and 26th November 2024.

Among the seven countries scrutinised, Mauritius is the only country with AI-specific laws within the financial sector through the Financial Services (Robotic and Artificial Intelligence Enabled Advisory Services) Rules of 2021. At the same time, the research findings show that Kenya and Rwanda are making great strides toward AI-focused legislation.

The report states that most jurisdictions, except South Sudan, rely on soft laws or general laws, such as data protection regulations, to partially govern AI without dedicated legislation. It has also established that only Rwanda and Uganda have made considerable progress in addressing ethical AI and human rights. “Rwanda’s national AI policy and Uganda’s Data Protection and Privacy Act exemplify a human-rights-centered approach to AI governance,” the report states.

Besides examining policies and laws, the study also examines stakeholder involvement in policy-making within the seven countries. It points to gaps in clear guidelines on how public participation should be conducted despite the fact that most countries see the need for it in their constitutions.

“In many cases, participation is limited to select stakeholders such as notable non-governmental organisations and experts, often excluding the broader public input,” the report explains, adding that the issue is glaring in Rwanda, Uganda, South Sudan and Zambia where information on the involvement of stakeholders is limited.

The report recommends that the current approaches may be inadequate to address the regulatory challenges posed by AI, proposing that laws be benchmarked against global standards such as UNESCO’s recommendations on AI ethics.

“Key policy recommendations for AI governance across East Africa, Zambia and Mauritius include enhancing public awareness campaigns to foster informed public participation, urging policymakers to commit to human rights and ethical principles in AI development, and establishing clear provisions and guidelines to ensure meaningful public involvement in the policymaking process,” the report adds.

Ends……

Nairobi, Kenya – ALDO, a leading footwear and accessories brand renowned for its trendy and stylish designs, is excited to celebrate its anniversary in Nairobi with a month-long tour across all four stores! The ALDO Nairobi Anniversary Tour kicks oI on the first weekend of November and continues for four consecutive weekends, with each store hosting its own festivities.A Weekend of Fun and Fashion at Every Store. Shoppers can mark their calendars for a weekend of fun and fashion at their nearest ALDO store in Nairobi. Each store will feature exciting activities throughout their designated event weekend, including:Special anniversary discounts and promotions on a variety of shoes and accessories.Live product demonstrations and giveaways, showcasing the latest trends and must have items from ALDO.Customer appreciation contests and raIles with amazing prizes Worth (65.000 KES) for loyal ALDO customers.Energetic music and light refreshments to create a fun and interactive shopping experience.Unique Store Themes and Influencer Collaborations.Adding to the excitement, each ALDO store may also feature a unique theme throughout their event weekend, oIering a special focus on a particular product category or style. Additionally, ALDO has partnered with popular Nairobi influencers known for their impeccable style to promote the anniversary tour. Fashion enthusiasts can look forward to engaging content featuring the influencers rocking their favorite ALDO looks and sharing their experiences at the events.Boosting Brand Presence Across Nairobi.

The ALDO Nairobi Anniversary Tour will be amplified through a comprehensive marketing
campaign. Eye-catching visuals showcasing the event details and special offers will be
displayed across social media platforms and in-store signage. Shoppers can expect to see captivating visuals on digital screens throughout the malls where ALDO stores are located.
“We are thrilled to celebrate our anniversary with our amazing customers in Nairobi,” says
Ismael Elmahdy, Head of Retail at WAMA International Group.

“The ALDO Nairobi Anniversary Tour is a way for us to show our appreciation and create a fun and memorable
shopping experience for everyone. We encourage everyone to come out, celebrate with us, and discover the latest trends from ALDO.”

Join the Celebration and Share the Style
Don’t miss out on the ALDO Nairobi Anniversary Tour! Follow ALDO on social media using the hashtag #ALDO1 Kenya Anniversary for all the latest updates and a chance to be featured. Get ready for a month of fashion, fun, and amazing deals at your favorite ALDO store in Nairobi!