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Alliad Kenya Rebrands, Expanding Its Services and Commitment to Local Communities

Alliad Kenya, formerly known as Agility Logistics Limited is proud to announce its rebrand, reflecting a significant milestone in the company’s evolution. The rebrand signifies the next phase in Alliad’s growth, still part of the Agility Global network, and reinforces its commitment to providing comprehensive, integrated solutions across Africa and beyond.

Alliad Kenya has grown significantly over the years, now serving over 100 customers across a diverse range of industries. The rebrand marks a new phase in the company’s expansion and service offerings, maintaining its services in supply and logistics while introducing new services to meet the evolving needs of its customers. These new areas of growth include large-scale construction and engineering, facility management, and logistics—all designed to strengthen Alliad’s presence and provide more holistic solutions to the market without diverting focus from its primary offerings.

“Our operations in Kenya are a critical gateway to East Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa. With our extensive facilities and warehouses in Nairobi, we have established a strategic hub that enables us to efficiently deliver comprehensive solutions across the continent. This not only provides significant opportunities for our clients but also allows us to grow and support local suppliers. By strengthening partnerships with local businesses, we are able to drive economic growth and deliver sustainable, impactful solutions, while expanding our reach throughout Africa.” said Stephen Wanyama, CEO of Alliad Kenya.

The Kenya team has played a crucial role in this growth, serving as a central hub to Africa with facilities and warehouses across the continent. The team is committed to empowering local suppliers, holding regular supplier forums to educate on safety standards and helping them integrate into global operations.

“As part of our ongoing commitment to economic development, we continue to work closely with local suppliers to help them meet international standards, thus creating a stronger, more resilient business ecosystem,” said Wanyama.

In line with its rebrand, Alliad established a supplier forum connecting East Africa, where they focused on empowering local businesses through a robust procurement policy and training programs. These initiatives are already underway in Uganda, where the company has provided skill development opportunities to promote local talent and foster long-term social benefits.

Over the years, Alliad has maintained an impressive 98% local employment rate in Kenya and has built strong relationships with over 100 local businesses, strengthening the country’s supply chain ecosystem and contributing to the advancement of its people.

Looking to the future, Alliad plans to expand its footprint across Africa, leveraging the success and lessons learned in Kenya, Côte d’Ivoire, and Uganda to continue its mission of driving economic growth and delivering sustainable, positive change to the communities it serves.

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DEFENDING DEMOCRACY: THE URGENT NEED TO SAFEGUARD JUDICIAL INDEPENDENCE IN KENYA

By Steve El Sabai

In recent months, Kenya has witnessed a worrying trend of sustained attacks on the Judiciary through political rallies, press statements, and social media campaigns. These developments threaten the delicate balance between judicial independence and accountability, both of which are fundamental to the country’s democratic stability. As civil society organizations and legal experts raise concerns, it is crucial to reaffirm the Judiciary’s role as a pillar of justice and the rule of law.

Judicial independence is the bedrock of any functional democracy. It ensures that legal decisions are made impartially, free from political pressure or external interference. The separation of powers guarantees that no arm of government wields unchecked authority, reinforcing a system of governance where the law prevails over personal or political interests. The Judiciary’s primary mandate is to uphold the rule of law, ensuring justice is served fairly and without bias. Any attempts to intimidate or undermine judicial officers erode public confidence in the legal system and set a dangerous precedent for governance.

While judicial officers must be held accountable for their actions, accountability must not be weaponized to suppress judicial independence. Legitimate concerns regarding judicial integrity should be addressed through established legal frameworks, such as the Judicial Service Commission, rather than through public attacks, political rhetoric, or attempts to manipulate the Judiciary to serve political agendas. Judges must be allowed to make decisions based on legal principles, not external pressure or intimidation.

Civil society organizations play a crucial role in protecting democratic institutions and advocating for a strong and independent Judiciary. Their efforts in raising awareness and holding leaders accountable help safeguard the courts from undue influence. At the same time, the public must recognize the Judiciary’s role in protecting their rights. An independent legal system ensures that justice is accessible to all and that the rule of law is upheld regardless of political or social status. A compromised Judiciary would pave the way for impunity, eroding the very foundation of democracy.

Political leaders, institutions, and citizens alike must commit to defending judicial independence. Respect for the Judiciary must be upheld, ensuring that judges can execute their duties without fear or pressure. Constructive engagement, rather than public intimidation, should guide discussions on judicial accountability. Institutions responsible for oversight must be strengthened to ensure accountability is pursued through legal and constitutional means. Moreover, civil society and the media must continue educating the public on the critical role of the Judiciary and the dangers posed by political interference.

Judicial independence and accountability are not opposing principles; they are complementary forces that reinforce Kenya’s democratic governance. The courts must be allowed to operate without undue influence while maintaining the highest ethical and professional standards. Any assault on judicial independence is an attack on democracy itself. As a nation, it is our collective responsibility to ensure that the Judiciary remains a beacon of fairness, integrity, and justice for all.

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PS Elijah Mwangi Leads Mining Sector’s Digital Transformation

By John Kariuki

Principal Secretary for Mining, Elijah Mwangi, is spearheading a major digital transformation in Kenya’s mining sector aimed at enhancing efficiency, transparency, and accountability. In a recent high-level meeting, he hosted PS John Tanui of the ICT department to assess the digitization needs of the State Department for Mining (SDM) as part of ongoing reforms.

Accompanied by senior officials from both the Mining and ICT departments, PS Mwangi emphasized the urgency of streamlining core processes in the sector through digital integration. The discussions highlighted the need for enhanced service delivery, aligning Kenya’s mining operations with global best practices.

Under his leadership, the department is finalizing the development of key Information Management Systems to improve operations in several critical areas. These include a Laboratory Information System for mineral analysis and certification, an Explosives Management System for regulating the use of explosives, a Royalty Collection System to enhance revenue accountability, and a Library System to provide a digital database for mining-related data and research. Additionally, revamping the National Geo-Data Bank is a priority to ensure improved access to geological data and facilitate informed decision-making in mineral exploration and investment.

PS Mwangi reaffirmed that this digitization process aligns with Kenya’s Mining Act (Cap 306), which mandates that all activities related to mineral rights processing be conducted online. Once fully implemented, the new digital systems will significantly reduce turnaround time in issuing mineral rights, boost revenue collection, and strengthen surveillance and monitoring of mining activities.

By championing these digital reforms, PS Elijah Mwangi is positioning Kenya’s mining sector for a future of increased efficiency and investor confidence, unlocking its full economic potential.

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Stakeholder Sensitization on National Building Code 2024 Kicks Off in Nairobi

By John Kariuki

The National Construction Authority (NCA) has launched the first phase of stakeholder sensitization and civic education forums on the National Building Code 2024, with the inaugural session held in Nairobi on Monday. Led by NCA Board Chairperson Mercy Okiro, the event brought together key industry players to discuss the new framework that is set to transform Kenya’s construction sector.

Speaking at the forum, NCA Executive Director Eng. Maurice Akech emphasized the significance of the updated Code, highlighting its role in modernizing construction practices by providing a clear framework for planning, design, maintenance, and demolition of buildings. He noted that the new regulations would enhance safety, efficiency, and compliance in the sector. In addition, he called on educational institutions to integrate the Code into their training programs to ensure that future professionals align with industry standards.

The new Code, which comes into effect in March 2024, has been widely welcomed by industry experts, who view it as a long-overdue step in addressing emerging trends, new construction materials, and evolving technologies. Patrick Analo, Chief Officer for Urban Development and Planning at the Nairobi City County Government, praised the NCA for spearheading the initiative, acknowledging the pressing need for updated regulations. He further expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Lands, Public Works, Housing, and Urban Development for its role in ensuring the success of the initiative.

Also present at the forum was Hon. Olago Aluoch, Chairman of NG-CDF, who commended the introduction of the new Code, noting its critical role in infrastructure development. He emphasized that 70% of the NG-CDF budget is allocated for the construction of infrastructure facilities in schools, TVET institutions, and KMTCs across the 290 constituencies, making compliance with the new regulations essential for quality and safety.

The sensitization and civic education forums mark the beginning of a structured implementation plan, which will later be followed by technical training sessions targeting professionals in the sector. Eng. Akech stressed the importance of collaboration between national and county governments to ensure the successful adoption of the Code. He urged counties to integrate the updated regulations into their approval processes for construction projects, reinforcing the need for compliance to improve the quality and safety of developments across the country.

As Kenya’s construction industry continues to grow, the National Building Code 2024 is expected to play a critical role in shaping a more sustainable and regulated sector. By incorporating modern standards and best practices, the Code aims to enhance efficiency and environmental responsibility in construction. The sensitization forums will continue across the country, equipping industry professionals, developers, and policymakers with the necessary knowledge to embrace and implement the new regulations effectively.

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The Chief Executive Officer of the National Land Commission CHRP Kabale Tache Arero says:

“Today, I joined other leaders in Homabay County to celebrate International Women’s Day. This annual event allows us to recognize the achievements of women and promote gender equality in our communities. It is a day dedicated to reflecting on the progress made and the work that still lies ahead.

The theme for this year’s celebration is ‘Accelerate Action for All Women and Girls.’ This powerful theme underscores the urgent need for continued efforts to empower women and girls across all sectors of society. It serves as a reminder that collective action is crucial in driving meaningful change and ensuring that every woman and girl has the opportunity to thrive.

At the @NLC_Kenya, we remain steadfast in our commitment to advocating for equitable land rights. We understand that access to land is a vital aspect of women’s empowerment and plays a critical role in achieving gender equity. By promoting fair land ownership and usage policies, we aim to create an environment where women can fully participate in the economic, social, and political spheres of their communities.

As we celebrate this significant day, let us reaffirm our dedication to accelerating action for all women and girls. Together, we can pave the way for a future where gender equality is not just a goal but a reality for everyone.

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” Kituo Cha Sheria is out of bounds” Acting ED John Mwariri tells Ex-Mutunga, Alumni as staff accuses him of dictatorship, corruption, tribalism and Nepotism

Acting Kituo Cha Sheria Executive Director John Mwariri has alledgly instructed security guards not to allow Ex-Chief Justice Willy Mutunga or any other Alumni from accessing the Kituo cha Sheria main offices in Nairobi without his permission.

According to an agitated employee within the organisation, the security guards must be vigilant and treat any allumni or former staff as an outsider unless they get a direct appointment from Mr.Mwariri.

” The acting ED has instructed the guards not to allow even the Ex- CJ and all the alumni including the ones he illegally fired some few months ago. He told them that anyone who wants to access Kituo Cha Sheria’s main offices in Nairobi must get a direct appointment from him ,” said the employee.

The Nairobi based employee who wanted his identity hidden added that Mwariri last week banned meetings among them and that they are no-longer supposed to walk or sit in groups.

The acting ED has been intimidating employees with threats, insults and has reportedly threatened to fire anyone who opposes his illegal directions.

” Even talking in a group of two or three is forbidden at Kituo Cha Sheria, we are not supposed to express our thoughts in any way, we are harassed, intimidated and we are being disrespected by the ED who feels like he is above the law,” the source added.

The employee said that their voices have been silenced and the organisation is now in the wrong corrupt regime.

So far two employees at the Kituo Cha Sheria offices in Nairobi have resigned because of the toxic environment the ED has created.

” Because of his unproffesional way of leadership that involves insults, threats and intimidations, two employees have resigned and others are planning to resign. They have blamed him of creating a toxic and a hostile working environment,” a reliable source within Kituo Cha Sheria’s office confirmed to our investigative team.

Our efforts to reach Mr.Mwariri on call for a comment on the matter were not successfully as our calls went unanswered.

Mwariri, who has already featured in a certain publications has not yet been confirmed to the position he is currently holding but his close confidant revealed to this publication that he already has the blessings of the Kituo Cha Sheria’s Chair who assured him that the slot was his.

” He has told me that he is the Executive Director and he is going nowhere, he Brags that the Chair has already sealed him the slot and he is just waiting for a confirmation interview,” Mwariri’s close confidant revealed.

He recently without proper procedures fired some leaders at the organisation and he has so far brought in his tribesmen and women whom he intents to confirm ones he is assumed the ED position.

Some employees have raised alarm that the said people whom he claims to be interns are brutal and seems to be more aware of his activities within the organisation.( They behave like bosses)

Mwariri has also been accused of illegalities in his previous position and at a certain point found himself in a bitter exchange of words with some organisation founders.

For instance, Mwariri without consulting various stakeholders took Striking Doctors to court terming the strike illegal. On this case he used the Kituo Cha Sheria’s money to hire a lawyer who was his buddy to sue the Doctors on behalf of the state. This was illegal as Kituo Cha Sheria in most cases represents the oppressed.

Our investigations also showed that Kituo Cha Sheria without instructions from Elon Musk sued Safaricom over Starlink issues

This led to the lose of millions to an advocate , who was Mwariri’s buddy. They are said to have shared the loot they took from Sheria’s account while filling the said illegal suit on behalf of the billionaire, they never had his instructions to file the suit.

Mwariri’s buddy had sued mobile services provider Safaricom, the Communication Authority of Kenya (CA), and the Competition Authority of Kenya to allow Starlink access to the Kenyan market.

This was after Safaricom had written to CA seeking to have Space X, an Elon Musk-led company, be compelled to partner with the local internet providers.

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Absa Bank Celebrates International Women’s Day, Reinforces Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

NAIROBI, KENYA, 7 MARCH 2025 – As the world prepares to mark this year’s International Women’s Day, Absa Bank Kenya has gathered women in business and colleagues to celebrate the progress the bank has made in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.

The celebrations, centred around the theme #AccelerateAction, provided an opportunity for the bank to reflect on the milestones achieved in fostering an inclusive environment where female colleagues can thrive. Over the years, the bank has been a trailblazer in setting the standards for an inclusive working environment. Currently, the bank boasts of a 51% female workforce, with 47% in senior leadership and at the board level.

Joining the female colleagues for the celebrations, the Absa Bank Kenya Managing Director & CEO Abdi Mohamed expressed his support for ensuring gender diversity in the workplace, urging everyone to embrace the call, as it is not just a leadership mandate.

“When I reflect on this gender agenda journey, I am confident that we are on the right track towards achieving gender parity. Recently, we appointed four women to our senior leadership team, and we aim to increase female representation at the board level in the near future which will likely lead us to a 50-50 representation on the board,” said Abdi.

“While I am pleased with the progress made, there is still more to be done to ensure gender equality, as we have many highly qualified women professionals in Kenya. With modernity and the available resources, we must accelerate action to achieve the 50-50 balance,”

The chief guest, Honourable Lady Justice Joyce Aluoch, while encouraging the women, shared her journey of how she accelerated action to bring about change in Kenyan laws, ensuring that women also got basic allowances such as housing allowances that they previously did not receive due to gender inequality.

“In all that you do and wherever you may be, there is always an opportunity for you to make a difference. I made a difference as a young Kenyan magistrate, and you can too, in whatever capacity you find yourself. Accelerating action merely requires us to take that first bold step,” said Hon. Lady Justice Aluoch.

The Chief People Officer, Mumbi Kahindo, reaffirmed her commitment to championing the rights of female colleagues and ensuring gender diversity and equity in the workplace during her remarks.

“We recognise that gender is just one part of the diversity and inclusion conversation that we need to have. We have other components that also need attention, which we are working to address,” said Mumbi.

Absa Bank has made significant progress in ensuring gender parity by recently appointing Mwihaki Wachira as the Director of Marketing and Corporate Affairs, Elizabeth Munga as the Head of Strategy, Sophia Abdi Hassan as the County Treasurer, and Anne Nyongesa as the Company Secretary.

The bank has approached equality not as a lofty future aspiration but as an economic and social imperative. The bank believes that where women are empowered, businesses thrive, economies grow, and societies prosper. The bank focuses on empowering women entrepreneurs, ensuring gender parity in leadership, and driving conversations about financial inclusi

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Wilson Muthaura Celebrates Women’s Pivotal Role in the Tea Sector on International Women’s Day

By John Kariuki

The tea industry thrives on the resilience, dedication, and hard work of women—a fact that Wilson Muthaura, Group Chief Executive Officer of KTDA Holdings, passionately recognizes. As the world marks International Women’s Day 2025, Muthaura has taken a moment to celebrate and honor the invaluable contributions of women, particularly in the tea sector.

With women providing an astounding 60% of the total labor in the tea industry, their role is undeniable and irreplaceable. Muthaura emphasized that their efforts should never be underestimated, acknowledging that the success of the industry—and indeed the nation’s economy—rests on their unwavering commitment.

“The backbone of the tea sector is built on the strength and perseverance of women,” he remarked, calling for greater recognition, support, and empowerment of female workers. Under his leadership, KTDA Holdings remains steadfast in advocating for equity, better working conditions, and opportunities that uplift women across the tea value chain.

Muthaura’s commitment to championing gender equality extends beyond words. His leadership at KTDA Holdings has seen initiatives that empower women, ensuring they have access to resources, leadership roles, and fair economic opportunities in the tea industry.

As the world comes together to celebrate International Women’s Day, Muthaura calls upon all stakeholders to accelerate action toward a more inclusive and equitable future. His message is clear: recognizing, valuing, and investing in women is not just the right thing to do—it is essential for sustainable growth and prosperity.

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Hon. Faith Mwaura Launches Garbage Recycling Centre to Empower Youth and Women in Roysambu

By John Kariuki

Renowned leader and Kenya Development Corporation board member, Hon. Faith Mwaura, has taken a bold step in championing environmental sustainability and economic empowerment in Roysambu. Last Thursday, she officially launched a garbage recycling centre in Githurai, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at transforming waste into a source of income for local youth and women groups.

As part of the project, six briquette-making machines were issued to organized groups in Roysambu, enabling them to convert recycled garbage into eco-friendly briquettes for sale within the community. This initiative not only promotes clean energy solutions but also creates job opportunities, aligning with the broader goal of economic empowerment at the grassroots level.

The project was made possible through the support of Tika Kenya, a community-driven organization that has been working across the country since 2012, and the Mudavadi Foundation. Their collaboration underscores the power of partnerships in driving sustainable solutions to pressing social and economic challenges.

Hon. Mwaura emphasized the significance of the initiative, urging residents to embrace innovative ways of turning waste into wealth. “Just imagine collecting garbage from your environment and turning it into cash! This is the kind of transformation we need—where sustainability meets economic empowerment,” she remarked.

This initiative is expected to have a far-reaching impact, not only in improving waste management in Roysambu but also in fostering financial independence among community members. With such projects, the vision of a cleaner and more economically vibrant society is becoming a reality.

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PS Mining Elijah Mwangi meeting with the Parliament of Kenya Parliamentary Committee on Environment, Forestry and Mining for consideration of Supplementary Estimates 2 for the fiscal year 24/25

Today PS Mining Elijah Mwangi led senior officers in the State Department for Mining for a meeting with the Parliament of Kenya Parliamentary Committee on Environment, Forestry and Mining for consideration of Supplementary Estimates 2 for the fiscal year 24/25.

The discussions focused on a number of issues that are central to achieving the set targets for the department including half-year budget implementation status, sectoral performance, expected output and projected targeted results for the current financial year.

The session, chaired by the Baringo South MP Hon. Charles Kamuren-the Committee’s Deputy Chair, provided an apt sharing forum where I highlighted several significant achievements by the department under the cited period despite operating under a tight fiscal space owing to budgetary constraints.

As a department, we deeply cherish the support we continue to receive from the committee.

Particularly, we are grateful and value the assurance by the committee for positive consideration of our request for adequate funding and additional budgetary allocation to accelerate the execution of our transformative programs and position mining as one of Kenya’s main economic pillar.