Category: Uncategorized

By John Kariuki

In today’s fast-paced digital world, sending money has become a necessity for millions of people. Whether it’s paying for goods and services, supporting loved ones, or handling business transactions, mobile and online money transfers play a crucial role in everyday life. However, one major challenge that many consumers face is the high transaction fees imposed by most financial service providers.

SasaPay is stepping in to change this narrative. The financial technology company is dedicated to making money transfers more affordable by keeping transaction charges significantly lower than competitors. With a strong belief that every coin counts, SasaPay ensures that users save more with every transaction, allowing them greater financial freedom.

Unlike traditional money transfer services that often include hidden fees or high charges, SasaPay has streamlined its pricing model to make transactions cost-effective. Whether sending money to family, making business payments, or moving funds between accounts, users can now do so without the frustration of excessive charges eating into their hard-earned money.

To make its services even more accessible, SasaPay offers an easy and convenient way to sign up and start transacting. Users can register through their mobile phones or download the SasaPay app from their preferred app store. The platform connects seamlessly with all networks and banks, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience for everyone, regardless of their service provider.

Security is another key feature that SasaPay prioritizes. The platform employs advanced encryption and fraud protection measures to ensure that transactions are not only affordable but also secure. Users can send money with confidence, knowing that their financial information is protected at all times.

SasaPay is not just about reducing costs—it’s about unlocking financial opportunities for individuals and businesses alike. By eliminating the burden of high transaction fees, the platform enables users to allocate their savings to more productive ventures. Businesses can reinvest more into their growth, individuals can manage their personal finances better, and families can send and receive money without unnecessary financial strain.

With its user-friendly interface, seamless connectivity, and commitment to affordability, SasaPay is setting a new standard in the financial services industry. For those tired of paying excessive transaction fees, SasaPay presents a game-changing alternative that ensures more money stays in their pockets.

By making transactions more affordable, secure, and convenient, SasaPay is revolutionizing the way people send and receive money. Anyone looking for a smarter, cost-effective way to manage their finances can take advantage of this innovative service today.

Search for Common Ground, the world’s largest peacebuilding organization operating in over 35 countries, has announced a groundbreaking initiative aimed at accelerating the Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS) agenda in Kenya. The organization is leading efforts in the Horn of Africa, with active programs in Kenya, Somalia, and Ethiopia.

Speaking to journalists in Nairobi on Tuesday, Judy Kimaru, Country Director of Search for Common Ground, emphasized the importance of youth in Kenya’s peace and development journey. She highlighted that young people form a significant demographic and are central to the growth, peace, and cohesion that the nation desires. The Youth Peace and Security National Action Plan will serve as a key framework to realize the aspirations of Kenyan youth, setting the agenda for inclusive development and harmony.

The YPS agenda is rooted in a global movement that began in 2015 when youth from various countries, including Kenya, gathered in Jordan to engage with the United Nations. This effort led to the adoption of UN Resolution 2250, which empowers young people to actively participate in peacebuilding and influence the development of peace structures and frameworks in their own countries.

The National Action Plan for Kenya focuses on several fundamental aspects. One of the primary objectives is ensuring the meaningful participation of young people in political processes, making them central to conversations and decisions that shape their future. Another key focus is the protection of youth, recognizing that young people should not be viewed as instruments of conflict or unrest but rather as individuals deserving of safety and support.

Additionally, the plan emphasizes partnership, encouraging communities and institutions to view young people as essential partners in peace rather than sources of problems. Rehabilitation and reintegration are also crucial components, particularly for young people involved in conflicts or affected by violence, as the plan seeks to support their return to normalcy through disengagement and disarmament programs.

The event brought together numerous stakeholders, including the State Department for Youth, the National Youth Council, the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), the National Youth Service, and various civil society networks. Judy Kimaru expressed pride in the strong involvement of youth-led civil society coalitions, such as the National Coalition for Youth, which co-hosted the meeting. She emphasized the importance of collaboration between government entities, civil society, and grassroots organizations to create a comprehensive and inclusive approach to peace and security.

Kimaru called on like-minded partners and agencies to join the initiative, noting that Kenya aims to become the seventh African country to develop a National Action Plan for Youth, Peace, and Security. The goal is to roll out the plan within the next one to two years, well ahead of the next elections, ensuring that conversations around peace and security take place at the national, county, and grassroots levels.

To facilitate youth engagement, Search for Common Ground plans to open online channels for input and feedback, leveraging modern AI tools to gather diverse perspectives from young people across the country. Judy Kimaru encouraged youth to take an active role in shaping the plan and to connect with the National Coalition for Youth to ensure their voices are heard.

By Brenda Asugu
Kinangop Dairy Limited has introduced five new yoghurt flavors to the market, further cementing its reputation as a leader in the dairy industry. The new varieties—Pineapple Yoghurt, Vanilla Yoghurt, Strawberry Yoghurt, Lemon Biscuit Yoghurt, and Chocolate Yoghurt—are expected to offer consumers a wider range of delicious and nutritious options.
The company says the launch aligns with its commitment to meeting evolving consumer tastes while maintaining high-quality standards. The yoghurts are made from fresh, locally sourced milk and crafted with carefully selected ingredients to ensure superior taste and nutrition.
Speaking at the launch, Kinangop Dairy Limited’s CEO, Samuel Macharia, emphasized the company’s focus on innovation and consumer satisfaction.
“At Kinangop Dairy Limited, we are always striving to innovate and provide our consumers with premium dairy products that match their evolving lifestyles. Our new yoghurt flavors have been carefully crafted using the finest ingredients to ensure that every spoonful delivers an unmatched taste experience,” said Macharia.
He added that the new range is designed to offer variety, health benefits, and an enjoyable eating experience.
John G. Msafari, Chairman of the Board of Directors, called the product expansion a game-changer for the industry.
“This is a significant step forward for Kinangop Dairy Limited. With these new flavors, we are not just expanding our portfolio; we are enriching the lives of our customers by offering them more choices that align with their unique preferences,” said Msafari.
He noted that the company conducted extensive market research and rigorous quality testing before launching the new flavors to ensure consistency and excellenceWinnie Muthoni, General Manager of Sales, explained that the new flavors were developed based on consumer preferences.
“We have listened to our customers and developed flavors that cater to both classic and adventurous tastes. Pineapple Yoghurt offers a tropical twist, Vanilla Yoghurt provides a smooth and creamy delight, Strawberry Yoghurt is a timeless favorite, Lemon Biscuit Yoghurt combines citrusy zest with a crunchy surprise, and Chocolate Yoghurt delivers a decadent treat,” Muthoni said.
She added that the yoghurts will be available in various packaging sizes to suit different needs, from on-the-go snacking to family-sized portions.
Kinangop Dairy Limited highlighted that the new yoghurts are not only tasty but also rich in essential nutrients, including calcium, protein, and probiotics, which support digestive health and overall well-being.
The products will be stocked in supermarkets, retail outlets, and convenience stores across Kenya. Consumers can also purchase them through Kinangop Dairy Limited’s distribution network.
“We are working closely with our retail partners to ensure that our customers can easily find our new yoghurt flavors in stores near them,” said Muthoni
As Kinangop Dairy Limited continues to grow, the company remains committed to sustainability and supporting local dairy farmers.
“We take pride in our deep-rooted partnerships with local dairy farmers who provide us with high-quality milk. As we introduce new products, we are also investing in our communities and the broader dairy industry,” said Msafari.
With the launch of these five new yoghurt flavors, Kinangop Dairy Limited aims to solidify its position as an industry leader, offering consumers both indulgence and nutrition in every serving.

By Judith Mwai

Tropikal Brands Afrika Introduces ALO: A New Era of Natural Skincare with Locally Sourced Ingredients

Nairobi, Kenya – Leading consumer goods manufacturer Tropikal Brands Afrika Ltd has officially launched ALO, a premium skincare and hygiene range designed to meet the growing demand for natural, sustainable personal care products.

With a USD 3 million investment, the company has introduced a carefully curated product line that includes Body Lotions, Shower Gels, Body Sprays, and Roll-Ons, each formulated with natural ingredients to enhance skin health and hygiene.

Speaking at the launch, Tropikal Brands Afrika Managing Director, Mr. Davis Mukuria, emphasized the company’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and local economic empowerment.

“The ALO range marks a significant milestone in our mission to deliver superior, nature-inspired personal care solutions. We take pride in offering products that not only nourish and protect the skin but also support local farmers and promote ethical ingredient sourcing.”

A standout feature of the ALO range is its Goat Milk-enriched Body Lotions, formulated in collaboration with over 500 Kenyan farmers. Rich in natural lactic acid, goat milk gently exfoliates and hydrates the skin, ensuring a soft, radiant glow. Additionally, the ALO Aluminum-Free Deodorants provide 48-hour freshness, prioritizing both skin health and environmental safety.

Tropikal Brands Afrika’s Head of Commercial, Mr. Simon Kabue, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to local sourcing and value addition, highlighting its role in driving economic growth and job creation within Kenya’s agricultural and manufacturing sectors.

Kenya’s personal care market is projected to reach USD 1.29 billion in 2024, with a 4.90% annual growth rate (2025-2030), according to Statista. This rising consumer interest in natural and organic products aligns perfectly with ALO’s mission to offer high-quality, eco-conscious skincare solutions.

“At Tropikal Brands Afrika, innovation is at the core of everything we do. We are committed to continuously enhancing our products to meet evolving consumer needs while fostering economic empowerment through local manufacturing,” Mr. Mukuria concluded.

With the launch of ALO, Tropikal Brands Afrika Ltd is redefining skincare standards in Africa, proving that nature, quality, and sustainability can go hand in hand for a healthier, more radiant beauty experience.

By John Kariuki

In a concerted effort to improve maternal and newborn healthcare outcomes, Dandelion Africa has been conducting an Emergency Obstetric and Neonatal Care (EmONC) assessment across Baringo and neighboring counties. This initiative aims to evaluate the readiness of healthcare facilities to handle emergency obstetric and neonatal cases, ensuring that mothers and newborns receive timely and lifesaving care.

This week, our team visited Iten County Referral Hospital in Elgeyo Marakwet and Burnt Forest Subcounty Hospital in Uasin Gishu, two crucial facilities that often receive referrals from Baringo County. These assessments provide vital insights into the state of emergency maternal and newborn care services, helping us identify gaps in infrastructure, medical equipment, and healthcare personnel training.

Maternal and neonatal emergencies remain a significant challenge in many parts of Kenya, particularly in rural counties where access to specialized care is limited. Conditions such as postpartum hemorrhage, obstructed labor, pre-eclampsia, and neonatal asphyxia require prompt medical intervention, yet many health facilities struggle with shortages of critical resources.

Through this EmONC assessment, we are gathering critical data on the availability and functionality of essential obstetric and neonatal care equipment, staffing levels, and the capacity of healthcare workers to manage emergency cases. Additionally, we are assessing drug and blood supply chains for emergency interventions, as well as identifying gaps in referral systems and ambulance services for high-risk cases.

This assessment marks a crucial step toward our upcoming EmONC training program next month, where we will work closely with healthcare providers to build their capacity in handling maternal and neonatal emergencies. The training will focus on emergency response protocols, clinical best practices, and efficient resource utilization to enhance service delivery in these facilities.

At Dandelion Africa, we remain committed to strengthening healthcare systems and ensuring that every mother and newborn receives quality emergency care. Through collaboration with health facilities and continuous capacity-building, we are working toward a future where preventable maternal and neonatal deaths are significantly reduced.

As we move forward, we urge stakeholders—including county governments, healthcare institutions, and development partners—to support initiatives that prioritize maternal and newborn health. No woman should lose her life giving birth, and no newborn should die due to lack of timely medical intervention.

On March 15, 2025, Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Rebecca Miano, visited Kaproprita Girls High School in Baringo County, where she delivered an inspiring address to the students, urging them to remain committed to their education and work hard to achieve their dreams.

Miano, who attended the school in her early years, returned to her alma mater to motivate the current students, sharing her own life story as a testament to the power of education and perseverance. She recalled her time at Kaproprita, noting that it was here that her academic journey began, a foundation that propelled her to great heights in her career.

During her visit, Miano emphasized the importance of hard work, discipline, and a strong academic focus. She reminded the students that the knowledge and skills they acquire today will shape their futures and allow them to contribute meaningfully to the country’s growth, particularly in areas like tourism, wildlife conservation, and national development.

“I stand here today because of the opportunities I had, and I want you to know that you too can reach great heights,” Miano said, encouraging the girls to be ambitious and not let any barriers hold them back. She also encouraged them to take advantage of the resources available to them and pursue their dreams fearlessly.

The visit was well-received, with the students expressing enthusiasm and admiration for the Cabinet Secretary’s achievements. Miano’s message resonated deeply with the young learners, reinforcing the values of education, determination, and national pride.

Her visit to Kaproprita Girls High School serves as a reminder of the transformative power of education and the importance of role models in shaping the next generation of leaders.

DG MSEA HENRY RITHAA

The MSMEs sector is the backbone of the Kenyan economy. Speaking during the official Launch of the Kenya Public Private Sector MSME Dialogue; MSME Connect, the Cabinet Secretary, Hon. FCPA Dr. Wycliffe Ambetsa Oparanya, EGH emphasized that transforming the MSMEs sector is a top priority for the government.

‘This renewed focus is driven by the sector’s significant contribution to the economy’ CS Oparanya. He highlighted that MSMEs drive innovation and enterprise across all key sectors, making their growth and competitiveness essential for economic progress.

He mentioned however that the MSMEs continue to face major challenges, including high informality, limited access to finance, low productivity, and the growing impact of climate change. To address these barriers, the CS underscored the need for synergy among stakeholders to scale up and grow the sector.

He reiterated that this initiative marks a new era of collaboration between the government and the private sector, recognizing the private sector as a key driver in promoting MSME growth. The MSME Connect will be rolled out across all counties, providing a platform for dialogue between stakeholders working to support the sector. He called on all actors to actively participate in fostering tangible change and encouraged MSMEs to engage in these discussions.

He reaffirmed the Government’s unwavering commitment to championing policies that create an enabling environment for MSMEs to thrive and succeed.

He also encouraged the youth to venture into entrepreneurship, highlighting the KJET and NYOTA projects, which aim to benefit over one million young people. He emphasized that this is a multimillion-shilling initiative that the Government plans to roll out by June.

In conclusion, he urged MSMEs to participate in this year’s East African Trade Fair, which will be held in Kenya. He noted that the event presents a valuable opportunity for marketing, networking, and business growth. #MSMEsConnect #MSMEsGrowth #EmpoweringMSMEs #PublicPrivateDialogue State Department of Cooperatives Hon. Susan Mang’eni PS State Department For MSMEs dev’t
Council of Governors-Kenya The Uwezo Fund Kenya Industrial Estates KIE Safaricom PLC Hustler Fund Kenya Association of Manufacturers Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA)

By John Kariuki

For over 27 years, coffee farmers in Kiambu have endured financial struggles, poor prices, and systemic challenges that threatened their livelihoods. But today, thanks to relentless efforts and unwavering advocacy, these farmers are finally seeing the fruits of their labor. Hon. Gathoni Wamuchomba, the Member of Parliament for Githunguri, has been at the forefront of this fight, ensuring coffee farmers receive fair compensation for their hard work.

On this significant day, farmers at Kaimbu Factory under the Komothai Cooperative Society received their fourth payout for 2024 at an impressive rate of KSh 112 per kilogram. This marks a major victory in the long struggle to restore dignity and profitability to coffee farming in the region.

Hon. Wamuchomba has consistently fought for reforms in the coffee sector, advocating for transparent payment structures, direct market access, and policies that prioritize farmers over middlemen. Through her efforts, Komothai Cooperative Society has successfully implemented better pricing mechanisms, allowing farmers to earn more than they have in decades.

A detailed breakdown of recent payouts at Kaimbu Factory highlights the remarkable progress made. Farmers received KSh 73 per kilogram for their early crop in December 2024, while the main crop payout today reached KSh 112 per kilogram. In November 2024, Mbuni coffee fetched an impressive KSh 208 per kilogram. Looking ahead, projections for the early crop in November 2025 stand at KSh 54.5 per kilogram, while the May 2024 main crop paid out KSh 71.5 per kilogram. Mbuni coffee from May 2024 secured a strong price of KSh 198 per kilogram.

These figures reflect a positive transformation in the coffee sector, where farmers are no longer at the mercy of exploitative systems but are now empowered to reap the rewards of their dedication.

Hon. Wamuchomba has long maintained that coffee farming must remain a viable and lucrative business for the people of Kiambu. Her advocacy has centered on ensuring fair pricing, timely payments, and eliminating cartels that have historically shortchanged farmers. By strengthening cooperative societies like Komothai, she has helped create a model of success that can be replicated across the country.

Speaking on the latest payout, Hon. Wamuchomba reaffirmed her commitment to the cause:
“This is why I fight so hard for our coffee farmers. They have been exploited for far too long. Today, they can finally smile knowing their sweat and hard work are being rewarded. This is just the beginning—we will not stop until every coffee farmer in Kiambu and beyond enjoys the full benefits of their labor.”

With her tireless efforts, Hon. Gathoni Wamuchomba has reignited hope among coffee farmers. The future of coffee in Kiambu looks brighter than ever, and with continued reforms, farmers can confidently invest in their farms, increase production, and secure better futures for their families.

Wiper Party Leader Hon. Kalonzo Musyoka addressing the press in Nairobi on Friday. He has blamed Ruto’s regime for aiding land grabbing.

Wiper Party Leader Hon. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka has thrown his weight behind the Association of Kenya Railways Retirees (AKERARE) in condemning the unlawful grabbing of retirees’ property located on Valley Road, Nairobi. The disputed land, known as Land Reference No. 209/1064/1, 2, 3, 4 & 5, was vested in the Kenya Railways Staff Retirement Benefit Scheme in 2006 to support pension needs.

Speaking on the matter, Kalonzo Musyoka denounced the encroachment, highlighting that this case is not isolated. He pointed out that more than 20 estates—including Ngara, Makongeni, and Lower Hill Road—have been grabbed under questionable circumstances. The Kenya Railways Corporation Act of 2006 clearly stipulates that retirees should be settled on the land they occupied, but this provision has been blatantly ignored.

Kalonzo accused influential government officials of orchestrating a land-grabbing syndicate that targets elderly retirees, linking entities like TOTA and an unnamed agent to the scandal.

“This government is robbing its own people. Retirees who served Kenya with dedication are now being thrown into the streets while their land is handed over to wealthy cartels. We will not allow this injustice to continue,” Kalonzo asserted.

According to AKERARE, many affected retirees, now advanced in age, accuse President William Ruto’s administration of ignoring their plight while well-connected individuals, backed by state machinery, forcibly seize their land. Heavily armed police officers have reportedly been deployed to guard the property as houses are demolished and new occupants take over.

The controversy stems from a 2014 transaction when the Kenya Railways Staff Retirement Benefit Scheme, grappling with liquidity issues, sold the Valley Road property to Mahadi Investment Limited for Kshs. 400 million. Mahadi Investment made an initial payment of Kshs. 100 million as tender security and later deposited Kshs. 200 million, taking possession on 3rd March 2015.

However, the deal stalled as the Scheme failed to secure critical completion documents from the Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC), leaving an outstanding balance of Kshs. 79.9 million. Despite persistent requests for the documents, KRC remained unresponsive, complicating the transaction.

The situation escalated on 15th November 2024 when KRC personnel, alongside armed police and unidentified individuals, allegedly stormed the property at 4 a.m., forcibly evicting Mahadi Investment employees. Structures were demolished, and strangers occupied the premises without formal explanation.

Retirees, feeling helpless and betrayed, lament that the government’s actions amount to creating poverty from the bottom up by dispossessing the elderly of their rightful property.

AKERARE has now called on the government and the public to intervene, condemning what they term as blatant injustice against pensioners. The association vows to peacefully reclaim the property if the government remains unresponsive.

“We urge President William Ruto to return the property to the poor retirees and stop this rampant land grabbing. How much land can one individual possibly own?” the retirees questioned.

By John Kariuki

The National General Secretary of the Kenya National Private Security Workers Union, Bro. Isaac GM Andabwa, held a crucial meeting yesterday with the Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga to discuss the pressing challenges affecting both employers and employees in the private security sector.

During the engagement, Andabwa presented key concerns related to the welfare of private security officers, industry regulations, and broader issues affecting the sector. Raila Odinga attentively listened, acknowledged the gravity of the matters raised, and assured Andabwa of his commitment to advocating for lasting solutions that will improve conditions for private security workers across the country.

Expressing his gratitude, Andabwa hailed Odinga’s willingness to engage with the union and address the plight of private security officers. He emphasized that the support of leaders like Odinga is instrumental in ensuring that the industry receives the recognition and reforms necessary to enhance the working conditions and overall welfare of security personnel.

“This marks a major step towards the recognition and betterment of the private security workforce in Kenya. On behalf of myself and the entire private security industry, I extend my sincere gratitude to Baba for his dedication to serving all Kenyans, including private security officers,” said Andabwa.

He further lauded Odinga’s unwavering commitment to championing the rights of workers and advancing policies that promote fair treatment and job security within the sector. As the push for reforms continues, stakeholders remain hopeful that the engagement will pave the way for meaningful change in the private security industry.

Andabwa concluded by extending his best wishes to Odinga, praying for continued guidance and blessings as he tirelessly works towards the welfare of the nation.