Author: staff reporter

The Board of The Nairobi Hospital has maintained its firm commitment to service delivery and institutional integrity. In a press conference in Nairobi on Tuesday, the Board addressed concerns following a resurgence of reports concerning internal management matters.

Speaking at the briefing, the newly appointed Board Chair, Barcley Onyambu, emphasised the Hospital’s continued dedication to providing quality healthcare to patients and upholding its role as a trusted institution at the heart of Kenya’s healthcare system.

“Leadership confidence is vital to any institution, particularly one central to the health of the community such as The Nairobi Hospital,” said the Chair. “The recent reports on integrity and leadership are isolated and do not detract from our focus. The Board continues to work cohesively, guided by a strong leadership team and a commitment to shared values.”

Adding to the discussion, the Acting CEO, Felix Osano, stated, “Our commitment to excellence remains steadfast. We are taking decisive steps to address challenges and ensure that The Nairobi Hospital remains a beacon of trust and quality healthcare in Kenya.”

The Nairobi Hospital has been making changes in its board of directors in a move aimed at enhancing governance and operational excellence. The newly appointed members bring diverse expertise and fresh perspectives that will strengthen strategic oversight and institutional decision-making.

“We believe that the changes we have made in our board will accelerate our momentum towards institutional excellence,” added Onyambu.

The Board acknowledged the challenges faced in recent months, including the ongoing probe by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). The investigation, which began with a raid at the hospital, has raised concerns about patient confidentiality and the handling of sensitive data. The High Court has since issued orders staying the probe and
granted anticipatory bail to Board members. The hospital has assured stakeholders that it cooperating fully with authorities while safeguarding its patients’ privacy and is coop institutional integrity.

Additionally, the hospital has faced internal wrangles, including disputes over doctor suspensions and governance issues. These challenges have prompted calls for leadership changes and a renewed focus on transparency and collaboration.

Despite these hurdles, the Board remains optimistic about the future. Measures are already in place to safeguard business continuity and ensure that core services and hospital operations remain uninterrupted.

“We recognise that we will be judged by how well we lead the hospital beyond this period. Our dedicated staff continues to deliver uninterrupted and quality service to the public.”

The Board thanked all partners, patrons, staff, and well-wishers for their continued support during the hospital’s difficult period.

“Kenyans faith in this institution has not gone unnoticed. As we navigate this chapter, we pledge to fully repay your trust in us and continue serving you in the best way possible,” Onyambu noted.

Leah Sankaire, National Chairperson KEWOPA

The Kenya Women Parliamentarians KEWOPA has issued critical recommendations to the Technical Working Group on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Femicide, calling for action to halt the escalating GBV crisis in Kenya. We advocate for a comprehensive review of current GBV law, including consideration of the escalating threats of digital GBV, such as cyberstalking and doxing. We emphasize improving access to justice for survivors of GBV, including simplifying reporting processes, enhancing evidence collection, and accelerating prosecution. We also recommend gender-responsive courts and GBV coordination of data in order to efficiently monitor and counter the issue. KEWOPA proposes operationalizing the Victim Protection Board and Trust Fund, with KEWOPA urging the government to fulfill its role in empowering survivors.

KEWOPA calls for action against life-threatening social norms and increasing misogyny with demands for stronger women empowerment programs and eradication of harmful cultural practices.

MOMBASA, KENYA, APRIL 7, 2025 – 100 dependents, aged 18-25, of Kenya Navy servicemen and women have graduated with plumbing and electrical skills from the 3rd cohort of the partnership between The Family Group Foundation and the Military Wives Association of Kenya (MWAK).

Speaking at the graduation ceremony held at Mtongwe Kenya Navy Headquarters, Chief of Defence Forces, General Charles Kahariri, commended the program’s impact in equipping young people with marketable skills.

“I am pleased to witness the profound impact this training program has had on these deserving young men and women. It is evident that the initiative went beyond technical skills, equipping participants with soft skills, financial literacy, and essential toolkits to give them a competitive edge in the job market. My office is committed to scaling up and expanding this opportunity to empower even more young people, ensuring they have the skills and resources needed to build successful careers,” he said.

This partnership has now successfully graduated three cohorts, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to 201. The first cohort saw 51 graduates from Kenya Army dependents, while the second cohort included 50 graduates from Kenya Air Force dependents.

“At Family Bank, we believe that true impact goes beyond banking, it’s about transforming lives and building a legacy of opportunity. With over KES 55 million invested in vocational training, we are not just equipping young Kenyans with skills; we are shaping futures, strengthening families, and fueling economic resilience,” said Family Bank CEO Nancy Njau

“We are proud that 87% of beneficiaries have attained National Construction Authority (NCA) accreditation, 15% have joined the Kenya Defence Forces as skilled tradesmen, 23% have upskilled in solar energy, and over 30% have transitioned into employment, while others are exploring entrepreneurship. These outcomes reflect the transformative power of vocational training in securing a brighter future for our youth,” she said.

This project is under the Foundation’s Shared Values Initiatives in construction, entrepreneurship, development, and business management services dubbed the Tufuzu Youth Entrepreneurship Development Project, which provides young adults technical training and access to labour markets, financing, and linkages to other strategic partners.

“This program is structured under our education pillar as an association, with this partnership serving as a key enabler. We are also pleased to have the Kenya Navy co-invest in this cohort by sponsoring 50 students, complementing the 50 students sponsored by the Foundation. This joint effort strengthens our mission to empower and uplift young talent,” said Military Wives Association of Kenya Chairperson Ma’am Grace Kahariri.

The three-month training program integrates hands-on technical training certified by the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) and the NCA, ensuring that graduates meet industry standards. It also aims to accelerate access to dignified and sustainable income opportunities within the KDF fraternity.

Yesterday, the Director General of the Kenya Wildlife Service, Prof. Erustus Kanga, held strategic meetings at Chuka University and Tharaka University, accompanied by Prof. Yan Xue from the Sino-African Joint Research Center, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences. They were warmly received by Prof. Henry M. M’Ikiugu, Vice Chancellor of Chuka University, and Prof. Peter K. Muriungi, Vice Chancellor of Tharaka University.
The meetings focused on exploring potential areas of partnership, including:
✅ Climate-smart agriculture
✅ Biodiversity conservation and restoration
✅ Ecosystem conservation
✅ Staff and student exchange programs
All parties agreed to immediately initiate frameworks for collaboration. This partnership is poised to create jobs and improve local livelihoods, expand space for wildlife to roam freely, and empower farmers with modern agricultural technologies to boost their harvests. Additionally, it aims to ensure the protection of water resources and the environment through sustainable practices and shared innovation.
These efforts align with the Kenya Wildlife Service Strategic Plan 2024–2028, which champions thriving wildlife populations, peaceful coexistence between people and wildlife, and resilient ecosystems that are rich in biodiversity.
During the meetings, Prof. Kanga delivered a compelling presentation titled “Thriving Wildlife and Healthy Habitats for All, Forever – Making Peace with Nature

By John Kariuki

Geoffrey Kaituko, the Deputy Head of Mission in Rome and outgoing Principal Secretary of the State Department of Shipping and Maritime Affairs, has been at the forefront of strengthening maritime cooperation between Kenya and India. On the occasion of India’s National Maritime Day, Kaituko expressed his heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency Namgya Khampa, the Indian High Commissioner, and reflected on the ongoing partnership that has reached unprecedented levels in recent years.

As the outgoing Principal Secretary for Shipping and Maritime Affairs and Chair of the National Maritime Security Committee, Kaituko has played a pivotal role in fostering Kenya’s maritime security initiatives. His leadership has been instrumental in supporting collaborative efforts aimed at enhancing regional security in the Indian Ocean, with a special focus on two significant maritime initiatives: IOS Sagar and AIKEYME. These programs are designed to improve safety and security in the Indian Ocean Region, and Kaituko was keen to commend both India and Tanzania for their involvement in conceiving and implementing these initiatives.

“On behalf of the Government of Kenya, I am delighted to recognize the immense strides that have been made in promoting maritime safety in our region,” Kaituko stated. “The efforts by India, particularly in pioneering IOS Sagar and AIKEYME, are invaluable in ensuring that our naval forces are prepared to tackle the challenges we face in the Indian Ocean. This collaboration is a testament to the strength of the bond between Kenya and India.”

Under Kaituko’s guidance, Kenya has seen significant milestones in its maritime relations with India. In the last year, four Indian Navy ships made port calls at Mombasa, and in December 2023, INS Sumedha became the first Indian warship to dock at Port Lamu. These visits underscore the deepening ties between the two countries and set the stage for further cooperation in maritime security.

One of the most notable acts of solidarity was in May 2024, when the Indian Navy provided vital Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) materials to Kenya during devastating floods. This gesture, according to Kaituko, exemplified India’s role as a true friend and neighbor—always willing to extend a helping hand in times of crisis.

“India’s generosity during the floods of May 2024, when the Indian Navy sent aid to Kenya without being asked, highlighted the strong friendship between our nations,” said Kaituko. “It is in these moments that we realize the true value of partnerships and the strength of regional cooperation.”

Currently, six Kenya Navy personnel are training aboard INS Sunayna, the designated Indian Ocean Ship Sagar, for two months. This joint training initiative is part of Kenya’s broader efforts to build greater interoperability with regional partners. In addition, the maiden edition of AIKEYME has seen two Kenya Navy ships, Jasiri and Shupavu, participate alongside Indian naval forces, with four Kenya Navy observers taking part in the exercise. Kaituko highlighted the importance of such collaborations in ensuring a more secure maritime environment.

“Through exercises like AIKEYME, we are not only building stronger ties with India but also ensuring that our naval forces are better equipped to address regional maritime security challenges,” he added.

Kaituko’s leadership has been instrumental in driving these collaborative efforts, ensuring that Kenya remains an active participant in regional maritime security initiatives. His vision for a secure and stable Indian Ocean Region is one that has been shared by Kenya’s naval forces, as well as regional and international partners.

“I am confident that initiatives like IOS Sagar and AIKEYME will continue to bring Kenya and India closer together as we work to address the pressing maritime security issues facing our region,” Kaituko concluded.

As he prepares to transition from his role as Principal Secretary, Kaituko remains optimistic about the future of Kenya’s maritime relations, particularly with India, and the continued success of joint efforts aimed at securing the Indian Ocean. He concluded his message with well-wishes for all the nations participating in the maritime initiatives, expressing hopes for continued success, fair winds, and following seas.

NCA Executive Director Eng. Maurice Akech

The National Construction Authority (NCA) has vowed to take strict action following a tragic incident in Kisii County on Sunday, 6th April 2025, where a four-storey residential building collapsed, resulting in the loss of five lives. Three others were rescued and are currently receiving treatment at a local hospital. The building, located on Plot No. Wanjare/Bogiakumu/2138 in Itierio, was being constructed by Mr. John Chore.
The NCA has confirmed that the building was not registered with the Authority, and no contractor or consultant details were available for the project. Furthermore, the NCA’s Nyanza South quality assurance team had issued a suspension order on 3rd September 2024, halting construction due to non-compliance with building standards. Despite the suspension order, the developer resumed work without obtaining the necessary clearance from the NCA.
Upon learning of the collapse, the NCA, alongside officers from the Kisii County Government and the National Police Service, swiftly secured the site. Preliminary investigations suggest that poor workmanship and the improper placement of heavy construction materials on the upper floors may have contributed to the collapse. Authorities believe that the overload from the materials led to the structural failure of the building.
“This is a heart-wrenching incident, and our thoughts are with the victims and their families. The failure of this building could have been prevented if the proper procedures and regulations had been followed,” said Eng. Maurice Akech, Executive Director/Registrar of Contractors at the NCA. “We have zero tolerance for developers, contractors, or any professionals who ignore building standards or defy official orders. Those responsible will face severe legal consequences.”
This incident in Kisii County is the third major construction-related collapse in the past week. On 3rd April 2025, a building in Mombasa County on Plot No. Mombasa/Block XLVI/195 in Bondeni was reported to be sinking and tilting due to unauthorized additional floors, causing the failure of supporting columns. The building has been condemned and is awaiting demolition. On 2nd April 2025, another building in Suneka Sub-County, Kisii County, collapsed after construction had been halted by the NCA in November 2021. Fortunately, no casualties were reported in that incident.
The NCA has expressed deep concern over the increasing frequency of such incidents and is intensifying efforts to ensure that all construction projects comply with safety regulations. A detailed investigation into the cause of the Kisii County collapse is currently underway. The NCA has reiterated its commitment to enforcing building standards and preventing further tragedies in the future.

WAMA International has once again unveiled a new store at Westgate Mall. It was a grand opening with an amazing celebration ceremony. DJ’s were also involved so that it was a whole entertainment event. Local culture was also involved to give it a local touch. This marks a major milestone for WAMA International Group. The company already operates over 30 stores across the region.

WAMA International has launched the first adidas Originals store in Kenya. The store opened on April 4th at Westgate Mall in Nairobi. Adidas Originals is a lifestyle division of the global sportswear brand adidas. It features trendy footwear, apparel, and accessories.

Brett Burgess, Senior Director Africa Export, EM South, praised the partnership with WAMA. He emphasized adidas’ commitment to Africa. WAMA’s Head of Retail, Ismael Elmahdy, said the launch was a proud moment for the company and region.

Located on the first floor of Westgate Mall, the new store is part of a bigger retail expansion across East Africa.

With more stores expected across the region, WAMA International’s expansion signals a bright future for global retail in East Africa. Customers can look forward to more immersive shopping experiences, bold designs, and stronger brand engagement in the coming months.

By Churchil Barasa

Nairobi, 4th April 2025 – Agricultural trade is a critical driver of food security in East Africa, shaping production, access, availability, and costs. However, barriers such as non-trade tariffs and complex certification processes continue to hinder its full potential, even with the establishment of the Africa Free Continental Trade Area (AfCFTA). Ongoing efforts aim to harmonize trade requirements and introduce a “single window” approach to streamline import-export processes. Kenya is leading the region in agricultural trade, with countries like Uganda and Ethiopia seeking to learn from its successes.

The Agriculture Sector Network, representing private sector stakeholders, has been instrumental in coordinating efforts and advocating for better policies to improve the business environment. Yet, challenges such as inadequate data and underfunding persist. While agriculture contributes 20% to Kenya’s GDP, it still receives less than the recommended 10% of the national budget.

Transitioning from agricultural production to agri-systems requires increased investments across the value chain—from post-harvest handling to value addition—alongside improved data collection to track progress effectively. Policy reforms, capacity building, and regional cooperation remain essential. Frameworks like IGAD’s Food Security and Nutrition Strategy need to be adapted at national levels to enhance agricultural investment. Additionally, informal agricultural systems, including indigenous food trade and local livestock variations, must be integrated into data collection processes to ensure fair and comprehensive reporting.

With the Malabo process approaching its final stages, refining commitments under the Kampala Declaration is crucial to incorporating stakeholder input and country-specific agricultural priorities. Meanwhile, IGAD’s Food System Resilience Program, a seven-year World Bank-funded initiative, is working to strengthen agricultural productivity through digital investments, resource sustainability, and trade facilitation. However, challenges such as climate change, conflicts, and financial constraints persist. With food insecurity still affecting 62 million people in the region, achieving sustainable agricultural growth will require a multi-sectoral, well-funded, and data-driven approach to drive economic growth and poverty reduction.

Local detectives are on high alert after an increase in the gold smuggling syndicate from war torn Democratic Republic of Congo through Kenya to several destinations in Middle East, Asia and parts of Europe.

DCI sleuths have discovered a consignement of 100kg of gold smuggled through the country from Goma in Eastern DRC to Dubai last week
Two German nationals known as Marc Schuman (35) and Tobias Steinherr (42) are believed to be behind the latest racket, where they used fake documents to evade the detection by the sleuths. The consignment finally reached the end buyer in Dubai, a Pakistani businessman in Dubai who is a frequent visitor to Kenya with connection to influential government officials.
The due also have a close relationship with the Congo rebels they support in procurement of military materials and medicine
It is believed that the current instability in Eastern DRC that has witnessed the death of more than 1,000 soldiers and civilians has fueled the smuggling syndicate.
The ongoing conflict, particularly around Goma and Bukavu creates a chaotic environment that smugglers exploit with the help of the rebels to move gold and other valuable,
Many armed groups in the region, including the M23, are heavily involved in the illegal mining and smuggling of gold to finance their operations. They often control mining sites and establish smuggling routes, using force and intimidation to maintain their control.

By John Kariuki

In a bold endorsement of financial sector reform, digital lender Jijenge Credit Limited has thrown its weight behind calls for a standardized base lending rate, a move spearheaded by commercial banks to streamline interest rate determination. The firm argues that adopting a unified rate will inject much-needed predictability into the lending ecosystem, fostering stability for both borrowers and financial institutions.

Peter Macharia, CEO of Jijenge Credit, stressed the urgency of adopting a scientific and objective loan pricing model that aligns with global banking best practices. He highlighted that such a framework would optimize financial resource allocation, ensuring that borrowers are better served while reinforcing the nation’s economic resilience.

“It is imperative to construct a scientific and objective loan pricing model to keep pace with the competitive rhythm of commercial banks in mature economies. This will ensure financial resources are allocated efficiently while protecting market stability,” Macharia remarked during an industry forum on Tuesday.

He further elaborated on the mechanics of loan pricing, noting that banks employ a base rate as a benchmark, to which they add a margin—commonly referred to as the spread—to determine the final interest rate for borrowers. However, under the current risk-based pricing framework, interest rates vary widely, leading to market inefficiencies and inconsistencies.

Commercial banks are currently engaging the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) in discussions to overhaul loan pricing models and establish a unified base lending rate. This follows concerns that banks have not been adjusting interest rates in tandem with reductions in the Central Bank Rate (CBR), a discrepancy that has raised alarms across the financial sector.

Macharia concurred with the sentiment that the existing risk-based pricing model lacks the adaptability required for market fluctuations. He attributed the high cost of loans to this rigid pricing mechanism, warning that it has led to a surge in business closures and increased asset repossessions.

“One of the major challenges facing Kenya’s economy today is the prohibitive cost of credit, which has rendered many businesses unsustainable. This explains the rising number of foreclosures and vehicle repossessions due to borrowers struggling to meet their financial obligations,” Macharia noted.

The Central Bank of Kenya has been actively working on a new loan pricing framework and is poised to present it for public consultation. CBK Governor Kamau Thugge revealed that a formal proposal will be unveiled within a fortnight, incorporating international best practices tailored to Kenya’s unique economic landscape.

“I hope within the next two weeks we will have a concrete proposal. We are studying global models and adapting them to suit our domestic financial ecosystem,” Dr. Thugge stated during a recent parliamentary committee hearing.

Banks have long lobbied for a transition from risk-based pricing to a common reference rate, contending that the existing model creates undue complexity and inconsistencies within the industry. Ideally, a base rate serves as the foundation upon which banks calculate interest rates for loans, mortgages, and other credit products. A hike in the base rate typically translates to higher borrowing costs, whereas a reduction should theoretically lead to lower interest rates.

This ongoing reform push comes in the wake of several commercial banks slashing lending rates following CBK’s decision to cut both the benchmark Central Bank Rate (CBR) to 10.75 percent and the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) to 3.25 percent. The apex bank has implemented a cumulative 225-basis-point reduction in the CBR since August last year, marking a strategic shift towards a more accommodative monetary policy stance.

In February, CBK mandated that banks align their lending rates with the revised monetary policy framework, warning of regulatory action against non-compliant institutions.

As the financial sector braces for transformative policy shifts, the call for a standardized base lending rate is gaining traction. Industry players, including Jijenge Credit, view this move as an essential step towards fostering a more predictable and sustainable credit market—one that balances the interests of borrowers and lenders while bolstering economic growth.