Category: Uncategorized

By Grace Waithaka

Ps for the State Department of Diaspora Affairs, Roseline Njogu, has hailed the success of the Kazi Majuu program, a government initiative designed to address unemployment by connecting skilled Kenyans to global labor markets. Since its inception, the program has opened opportunities for over 180,000 Kenyans to secure jobs abroad, contributing significantly to both individual livelihoods and the national economy.

The journey started with the development of the Global Labor Market Strategy, a blueprint that aligns government efforts to address unemployment. Through collaboration between the State Departments for Diaspora Affairs and Labor and Skills Development, we structured policies and regulations to ensure the protection and facilitation of Kenyans entering the global labor market,” said Njogu.

It’s impact reflected in the growing diaspora remittances, which have become Kenya’s largest source of foreign exchange. In the last year, remittances hit USD 4.9 billion, surpassing revenue from traditional exports like tea, coffee, horticulture, and even tourism. “This growth in our diaspora translates directly to families being supported back home and our economy thriving,” Njogu noted.

While the program has achieved tremendous success, it has not been without challenges. The PS acknowledged the presence of fraudsters and con artists exploiting unsuspecting Kenyans under the guise of connecting them to overseas jobs. “These scammers use elaborate schemes, including fake job interviews and contracts, to extort money. Some victims are trafficked under false pretenses and end up in forced labor or pseudo-slavery,” she explained.

An alarming trend involves human trafficking rings targeting Kenyans with promises of lucrative jobs as IT specialists or translators. Victims are often lured with tourist visas and flown to destinations like Thailand, only to be trafficked across borders into Myanmar. There, they are held captive and forced into online scams.

“In the year 2023, we rescued over 150 Kenyans from these trafficking networks,” Njogu revealed. She issued a stark warning to job seekers: “There are no jobs in Thailand. Any advertisements suggesting otherwise are fraudulent. Kenyans must remain vigilant.”

Government remains committed to expanding job opportunities abroad while ensuring Kenyans’ safety. Njogu emphasized the importance of awareness and collaboration with law enforcement to dismantle trafficking networks and protect citizens.

“The concerns we see stem from years of inadequate support for Kenyans seeking jobs abroad. Through Kazi Majuu, we are addressing this gap by providing structured facilitation and protection,” Njogu said.

She concluded by reaffirming the government’s dedication to securing more legitimate opportunities for Kenyans while urging job seekers to verify opportunities through official channels to avoid falling victim to scams.

Kazi Majuu continues to transform lives, offering hope and opportunities to thousands of Kenyans while highlighting the need for vigilance against exploitation and fraud.

Today, the Cabinet Secretary for Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife – Kenya, Hon. Rebecca Miano, EGH, held a strategic planning meeting with the senior management team of the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and members of the Board of Trustees at the KWS Law Enforcement Academy in Manyani.

In her address, the Cabinet Secretary commended the Board and Management for the notable achievements realized by the Service during the last 2 years. She specifically highlighted the transformative changes attained in staffing, as well as force modernization through the acquisition of customized equipment to enhance park security patrols.

Acknowledging the critical role KWS plays in national security and the economy, the Cabinet Secretary urged the team to align their efforts with the new Corporate Strategic Plan 2024–2028. She emphasized the importance of addressing key challenges in wildlife conservation to effectively fulfill the Service’s mandate.
Hon. Miano also encouraged the team to continue upholding the highest standards of integrity, noting that this would attract support from partners and stakeholders, ultimately contributing to KWS’s goal of becoming self-sustaining.

The KWS Board of Trustees Chairman, Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Walter Raria Koipaton, expressed gratitude to the Cabinet Secretary for her continued support. He acknowledged that this support has propelled KWS to new heights and pledged the Board’s unwavering commitment to advancing the Service’s programs and initiatives.

Prof. Erustus Kanga, the KWS Director General, thanked the Cabinet Secretary and the Board for their steadfast support. He reaffirmed his commitment to sustaining the positive momentum into 2025, ensuring continued progress for KWS.

By John Kariuki

In the fast-paced world of real estate, success often depends on strategy, resilience, and vision. Yet, for Dr. Hezekiah Kariuki, Managing Director and CEO of Comfort Homes, the true cornerstone of leadership lies in faith. Each morning, he starts his day with a prayer, seeking divine guidance to navigate the responsibilities of steering one of Kenya’s leading real estate companies.

Reflecting on Jesus’ words, “Without me, you can do nothing,” Dr. Kariuki emphasizes the importance of leaning on God for strength and wisdom. His morning prayer begins with gratitude for the countless blessings and opportunities that have shaped Comfort Homes into a trusted name in the industry.

“Lord Jesus, thank You for Your daily care and blessings. I bring before You the works and tasks of this day,” he prays. Acknowledging the challenges that come with leadership, he places his trust in God to provide the courage and resilience needed to face the day ahead.

Dr. Kariuki believes that leadership is not just about managing tasks but inspiring a team and creating a legacy that serves the community. His prayer extends beyond the present, entrusting the future plans, dreams, and even uncertainties of Comfort Homes to God’s grace.

“I ask for Your help so I do not lose confidence and remain enthusiastic and committed,” he says, reflecting the passion he brings to his role. “May all our wishes and plans, by Your will, be fulfilled successfully.”

For Dr. Kariuki, prayer is not just a personal ritual; it is the foundation of his leadership philosophy. By grounding his decisions and actions in faith, he aims to ensure that Comfort Homes remains more than a business—it is a source of hope, trust, and excellence for the people it serves.

As he concludes his prayer with “In Jesus’ Name, Amen,” Dr. Kariuki carries with him a renewed sense of purpose. His commitment to combining faith and leadership is a testament to the values that drive Comfort Homes forward.

At Comfort Homes, building houses is only part of the mission; creating spaces where dreams can thrive and communities can grow is the true measure of success. Through prayer and purpose, Dr. Hezekiah Kariuki continues to lead with integrity, passion, and unwavering trust in God.

Dr. Hezekiah Kariuki is the Managing Director of Comfort Homes which is the undisputed leading real estate company in Kenya. Comfort Homes is also the most affordable and most trusted land dealer having handed over more than ten thousand title deeds to its customers, thereby empowering them to own property.
That said, Dr. Kariuki attributes his success to the Power and Omnipotence of God. That is why he cannot start the day without saying a prayer:
THURSDAY MORNING PRAYER
Dear God, thank you for waking us up today. Thank you for blessing our lives with strength, vibrance, peace, and joy.
As we do our tasks today, Lord, guide us that we will be productive and joyful in performing everything. May Your angels protect our day. Let not the weapons of enemy come near us. Instead, cover us with your protection.

By John Kariuki

This evening, ICT Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo led the Organizing Committee of the upcoming Nyanza International Investment Conference (NIIC) in a strategic meeting with the National Leadership of the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT). The meeting, held in anticipation of the conference slated for 6th-8th February 2025, aimed to align expectations and foster collaboration ahead of the landmark event.

The KNUT delegation was led by National Secretary General Collins Oyuu and National Chairman Patrick Karinga, with other key officials in attendance, including Malel Langat, Mercy Muthoni Ndungu, Aggrey Namisi, Rosalia Mkanjalla, Kennedy Nyamwanda, Kullow Mohamed, Mercy Kiambati, and Hezbon Otieno.

Representing the NIIC Organizing Committee were Chairman Japh Olende, Vice Chairman Michael Monari, Prof. Tom Olali, Tom Mshindi, Amb. Grace Okara, Dr. Veronicah Manduku, George Ooko, FCPAK Rose Osoro, Dr. Silpah Owich, Dr. Anyango Ochieng, and Dr. Amos Omolo.

Speaking after the meeting, Owalo expressed confidence in the progress made and reiterated the significance of the conference in catalyzing economic growth and development in Nyanza. He emphasized the need for collaboration across various sectors to ensure the event achieves its objectives.

“We are now on the homestretch to the investment conference. The NIIC is a crucial platform for showcasing Nyanza’s economic potential and attracting investment that will transform the region,” Owalo stated.

The Nyanza International Investment Conference is poised to highlight the region’s vast investment opportunities in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, education, ICT, and tourism. It is part of a broader agenda to position Nyanza as a hub for innovation, business, and development.

The meeting underscored the critical role of education stakeholders like KNUT in fostering partnerships that will drive the region’s transformation. With just a few weeks to go, the NIIC Organizing Committee is fine-tuning the final details to ensure the event’s success

By John Kariuki

In a strategic move aimed at improving Kenya’s position as a global travel and business destination, the Cabinet has approved critical recommendations to enhance the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system. This decision underscores the government’s commitment to streamlining travel processes and addressing challenges faced by visitors to the country.

The meeting, chaired by President William Ruto, emphasized the need for an efficient and traveler-friendly eTA system that aligns with international best practices. The Cabinet further directed a multi-ministerial review involving the National Treasury, Transport, Interior, and Tourism Ministries to collaborate and propose actionable guidelines within one week. This ambitious timeline reflects the urgency of resolving inefficiencies that have impacted Kenya’s airports, a crucial gateway for international and domestic travelers.

The Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system is a pivotal tool in Kenya’s immigration framework, facilitating seamless pre-approval for international visitors. However, stakeholders have raised concerns about delays, system downtimes, and a lack of user-friendly interfaces. Such issues have not only inconvenienced travelers but have also dented Kenya’s image as a preferred tourism and investment hub.

By addressing these gaps, the Cabinet aims to enhance the system’s functionality, reduce waiting times, and foster a smoother experience for travelers. The ministries tasked with this mandate will analyze existing pain points, benchmark against global standards, and ensure recommendations prioritize convenience, security, and efficiency.

This directive comes at a critical time when Kenya is positioning itself as a leading destination for tourism, trade, and conferences. The enhancement of airport operations and the eTA system will not only improve customer satisfaction but also attract more visitors, boosting the economy.

The Cabinet’s focus on collaboration and swift action highlights the government’s dedication to leveraging technology to modernize Kenya’s travel infrastructure. As the ministries work towards finalizing their proposals, stakeholders and travelers alike can anticipate a transformative shift in their airport experiences, reinforcing Kenya’s status as a hub for global connectivity.

Students from Zetech University and Christ University engage in a hands-on learning session at the Advanced Research in Digital Forensics and Cyber Security (ARDC) Lab at Christ University, Bangalore, India, during their second cohort visit to Asia’s Silicon Valley.

[Ruiru, Kenya – 22nd January 2025] – Zetech University and Christ University have launched an innovative partnership aimed at advancing technology, education and research. This collaboration will focus on co-teaching, research and innovation in developing the much-needed global tech talent. Christ University is a leading technological university located in Bangalore, India (the Asia’s Silicon Valley) and is a strategic partner for Zetech University towards shaping the future of technology education.
A key aspect of the partnership is the co-teaching initiative, where lecturers from both universities will collaborate on courses in fields such as Research on Emerging Trends in Computer Science, Advanced Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, Robotics and Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, Blockchain Technology and Advanced Data Structures. This approach will enrich students’ learning experiences, offering them insights from experts in these cutting-edge areas.
“This collaboration presents an exciting opportunity to enhance our postgraduate programmes in Computer Science and IT as our students will be taught by faculty from both Zetech University and Christ University. The partnership perfectly aligns with our commitment to interdisciplinary research and internationalisation. It will also enable our students and faculty to have exposure on the best global practices and enhance south – south collaboration,” remarked Prof. Alice Njuguna, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academics, Research and Student Affairs, Zetech University.
The partnership will see Zetech University students participate in Student Exchange Programmes to the Silicon Valley of Asia, where they will get a chance to study and research with some of the leading tech companies in Asia. Zetech University and Christ University have had previous exchanges in the past and are planning for a student exchange programme this year in March on the 3rd to 8th.
Additionally, the partnership will foster innovation and patent development, particularly in areas including; Cybersecurity and the Internet of Things. Industry collaborations with companies such as QpiAi for Quantum Computing and Advantech for Internet of Things (IoT) will enhance practical learning and research, with Zetech University’s Africa Centre for Data Analytics and Modelling and the University’s Innovation Hub (iZet Hub).
“The collaboration will also involve joint supervision of student projects, research publications and conferences ensuring students gain real-world experience while contributing to global technological solutions. Moreover, seminars on patent writing will be held to guide faculty and students in protecting their intellectual properties.” Noted, Prof. Mary Anita, Associate Dean, School of Engineering and Technology, Christ University.

By John Kariuki

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua continues to prioritize the voices of ordinary citizens, reaffirming that the people are the ultimate custodians of power, as enshrined in the Kenyan Constitution.

Yesterday, at his Wamunyoro residence in Nyeri, Gachagua hosted a consultative meeting with Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) from Nakuru County. The meeting aimed to discuss the county’s pressing socioeconomic issues and identify key priorities raised by residents.

“The MCAs are the leaders who interact closely with Wanjiku at the grassroots level. Their insights reflect the true aspirations of the common mwananchi,” said Gachagua.

During the engagement, the MCAs presented a comprehensive overview of Nakuru’s challenges and opportunities. They highlighted critical issues that residents want addressed urgently, including economic recovery, infrastructure development, access to healthcare, and education.

Gachagua emphasized his commitment to engaging leaders across all levels, from grassroots to the national stage, to develop a holistic understanding of the nation’s economic situation and chart a way forward.

The meeting was attended by several leaders, including Hon. Jayne Kihara (Naivasha MP) and a host of MCAs: Simon Kamau (Kihingo), Elijah Mwaura (Biashara), Wajeff Wilson Mwangi (Menengai), Elijah Murage (Waseges), George Nene (Elementaita), Philip Wanjohi (Lare), Stanley Karanja (Naivasha East), Michael Gathanwa (Eburru Mbaruk), Mwangi Ngarama (Lanet Umoja), Paul Waweru Warege (Kiamaina), Isabella Makori (Subukia), Leah Ng’ang’a (Kabatini), Mwangi Muraya (Viwandani), P.M. Njoroge (Murindat), Mbugua Alex (Lake View), John Mwangi (Turi), Eliud K. Chege (Maai Mahiu), Francis Kuria K5 (Malewa West), Cyrus D. Ndegwa (Mau Narok), James Mwangi (Dundori), Njuguna Mwaura (Elburgon), David Muraya (Flamingo Ward), and Joseph Ngware (Molo).

The former Deputy President reiterated his belief in people-driven leadership and pledged to ensure that the concerns raised by grassroots leaders would inform future interventions aimed at transforming the lives of Kenyans.

By Grace Waithaka

Hon. Beatrice Elachi, MP for Dagoretti North, has called for greater accountability in governance and healthcare, urging women in parliament to leverage the tools provided by the International Parliamentary Forum (IPF) to address critical issues affecting Kenyans.

Hon. Elachi also reflected on 2024 as a year of learning and resilience, especially for salaried Kenyans who continue to bear the brunt of economic shocks and healthcare challenges. She emphasized that women often face the heaviest consequences in times of crisis, highlighting the need for policies that directly address their unique struggles.

On the Social Health Authority (SHA) framework, Hon. Elachi expressed concern over its architects, accusing them of failing to conduct proper ground assessments. She pointed out that the framework has led to significant challenges for Kenyans and called for limits on mandatory contributions, suggesting they should not exceed the KSh 500 currently paid to the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF).

“The government must be honest about Article 43, which guarantees the right to healthcare. Institutions under the SHA must be paid on time, and Kenyans deserve access to clear and transparent information about available healthcare services,” Hon. Elachi stated.

She also emphasized the importance of public awareness, urging the government to inform Kenyans about hospitals offering specialized services like dialysis and oncology. “Information is power. Our citizens need to know where to go for critical healthcare services,” she adde

She called upon her fellow women parliamentarians to lead with honesty and accountability, ensuring that taxpayers see the benefits of their contributions. “Kenyans are angry because they pay taxes but don’t see the value. We need to change this narrative by delivering results that directly impact their lives,” she concluded.

This has come at a time when the government faces mounting pressure to address systemic issues in healthcare and economic management. As Kenya moves forward, the call for transparent governance and effective service delivery remains louder than ever.

By John Kariuki

In a significant step towards achieving its ambitious goal of creating 30,000 jobs for Kenyans, Optiven Limited has once again demonstrated its commitment to empowering lives through meaningful employment. The company recently welcomed a new cohort of team members, a testament to its dedication to transforming lives and building sustainable communities.

Speaking on this milestone, Optiven expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to impact lives positively. The leadership emphasized that the recruitment aligns with the organization’s vision of being a pacesetter in job creation and economic empowerment.

As the new team members join the vibrant Optiven movement, the company extended its heartfelt congratulations and prayers for their success. “We are thrilled to have them on board and look forward to seeing them thrive in their roles as we collectively drive forward the agenda of transforming lives. We pray for their success in all ways,” said the statement.

Optiven’s journey toward creating 30,000 jobs is not just about numbers; it’s a reflection of the company’s unwavering dedication to the social and economic progress of Kenya. Through innovative projects, strategic partnerships, and an enduring focus on community development, Optiven continues to inspire hope and provide opportunities for countless families.

With each new recruit, Optiven reaffirms its role as a beacon of hope in the job market, a true partner in progress, and a driving force in Kenya’s economic growth.