Category: Uncategorized

Kenya on Monday welcomed a delegation of South Sudanese electoral officials for a week-long capacity-building exchange program aimed at enhancing governance and democratic processes in the East African region.

The South Sudan National Elections Commission (NEC) officials are undertaking a technical study tour organized in collaboration with Kenya’s Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) and regional governance institutions. The program seeks to equip South Sudanese officials with insights into voter registration, election monitoring, and dispute resolution best practices.

IEBC Chief Executive Officer Marjan Hussein Marjan emphasized that the partnership underscores Kenya’s commitment to strengthening democracy in the region.

“By sharing our experiences and lessons, we aim to support South Sudan in developing a credible electoral process that upholds peace and stability,” Marjan said during the session in Nairobi.

Abednego Akok Kacuol, Chairperson of South Sudan’s NEC, acknowledged the need to build public trust in the electoral system as the country prepares for its first post-independence elections scheduled for December 2026.

“I am confident that by applying Kenya’s best practices and lessons, we will enhance our preparedness to engage citizens, manage elections efficiently, and foster confidence in our democratic institutions,” Kacuol said.

Kenya’s Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service, Felix Koskei, highlighted the importance of the technical study tour, noting that it offers South Sudanese officials a chance to gain practical skills and insights from Kenya’s electoral experience.

He reiterated that adopting Kenya’s electoral management strategies would help South Sudan establish a credible and transparent voting process, ensuring citizen participation and trust in the system.

The study tour forms part of ongoing efforts to bolster electoral preparedness in South Sudan as the country works toward a stable and democratic future.

By John Kariuki

Kenya has taken a significant step in expanding its tea market presence as Cabinet Secretary Sen. Mutahi Kagwe leads a high-profile delegation to the Gulfood Festival 2025 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The mission aims to boost Kenya’s tea exports across the UAE, Middle East, Far East, and Europe while fostering stronger government ties and exploring new trade opportunities.

The UAE has grown into a crucial trade partner for Kenya, currently ranking as the country’s fourth-largest tea market. In 2023 alone, the UAE imported 28.6 million kilograms of Kenyan tea, valued at Ksh 10.1 billion. While bulk trade remains a significant revenue stream, Kenya is now shifting focus toward value-added exports and retail partnerships to secure higher earnings for farmers. Plans are underway to establish Common User Facilities to further enhance the returns on Kenyan tea, ensuring farmers benefit from improved market conditions.

Wilson Muthaura, the Group Chief Executive Officer of KTDA Holdings, welcomed the government’s renewed efforts to strengthen the tea export sector, describing the move as progressive and necessary for the long-term sustainability of Kenya’s tea trade. Muthaura has been instrumental in advocating for greater competitiveness in the global market, championing the exploration of new trade frontiers while emphasizing the urgent need for value addition. According to him, Kenya must transition from traditional bulk exports to premium packaged products if it is to secure better pricing and enhanced global positioning. Under his leadership, KTDA has actively pursued innovative strategies to bolster the tea sector’s competitiveness and expand its reach into emerging and premium markets.

Kenya’s participation at Gulfood 2025 is expected to cement its position as a global leader in tea exports. The country is looking to secure new trade agreements, improve product branding, and diversify its market presence to drive higher export volumes and enhance its tea’s reputation as a premium global product. This initiative aligns with the government’s broader economic agenda, ensuring that Kenya remains a dominant force in the tea industry while securing better value for farmers and industry stakeholders.

As the world’s largest exporter of black tea, Kenya continues to position itself as a key player in the international tea trade. The high-level discussions and partnerships anticipated at Gulfood 2025 signal a new era of growth and sustainability for the sector. With a renewed focus on value addition and premium branding, Kenyan tea is poised to become more competitive in the global market, offering better prices for farmers and reinforcing the country’s reputation as a top producer of high-quality tea.

Comfort Homes CEO Dr. Hezekiah Kariuki is a prayerful man

By John Kariuki

In a world where corporate leaders are often defined by profits and performance, Dr. Hezekiah Kariuki Mwangi, the Honorary Chief Executive Officer of Comfort Homes, stands apart. For him, success is not just about numbers—it’s about faith, gratitude, and purpose. Before he steps into his day of high-stakes decision-making, he does something rare in the corporate world: he prays.

This morning, like every other, Dr. Kariuki started his day in deep reflection, offering a heartfelt prayer not just for himself, but for his employees, clients, and the company’s journey ahead. His words, spoken with sincerity, reflect the essence of faith-driven leadership—a style that has set Comfort Homes apart in Kenya’s real estate landscape.

“As we begin this new day, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude for the countless blessings You’ve bestowed upon our company. We thank You for the success, the opportunities, and the growth we have experienced.”

Unlike many CEOs who focus solely on expansion and revenue, Dr. Kariuki prioritizes people—his team and the customers they serve. His prayer is a reminder that businesses thrive not just on strategy but on the well-being of those who make them successful.

“Lord, we lift up our employees to You. Bless them with health, joy, and fulfillment in their work. May they feel valued, respected, and inspired in their roles. Grant them wisdom, creativity, and collaboration in all they do.”

At Comfort Homes, the vision is not just to sell houses but to build communities and transform lives. The company’s commitment to excellence is rooted in relationships—not just transactions. Dr. Kariuki’s prayer reflects this deeply held belief.

“We also pray for our clients. May our services and products continue to meet their needs and exceed their expectations. Help us to build relationships that are not just transactional but also transformational.”

As one of Kenya’s leading real estate executives, Dr. Kariuki understands that integrity, wisdom, and ethical leadership are the foundation of any lasting business. In an industry often marred by shortcuts and broken promises, his approach is refreshingly different.

“Guide us, Lord, in making decisions that reflect Your wisdom and integrity, fostering an environment where everyone can thrive. Thank You for Your continuous guidance and love.”

In an era where corporate leadership is often synonymous with competition and pressure, Dr. Kariuki’s unwavering faith is a powerful statement—a reminder that true success is measured not just in profits, but in purpose, service, and gratitude.

And with that, he steps into the day, leading not just with strategy, but with faith.

By John Kariuki

The Kenya School of Government (KSG) has reiterated its commitment to fostering strong ties with South Sudan by enhancing leadership development and governance training. Speaking at the start of a one-week Technical Study Tour by the South Sudan National Elections Commission, KSG Director General, Prof. Nura Mohamed, commended the enduring partnership between the institution and South Sudan.

Prof. Mohamed highlighted the School’s instrumental role in building the capacity of South Sudanese leadership over the years. He further revealed that plans are underway to re-establish the South Sudan campus, a move aimed at deepening collaboration and providing continued support in governance and leadership training.

“The Kenya School of Government remains dedicated to equipping leaders with the necessary skills to drive transformation. Our relationship with South Sudan is one of shared growth, and we are keen on expanding our efforts to support their leadership development,” Prof. Mohamed stated.

The ongoing study tour at KSG’s Lower Kabete campus is expected to provide the South Sudanese delegation with insights into best practices in governance, public administration, and election management. This initiative underscores KSG’s broader mission of strengthening governance structures across the region.

With South Sudan preparing for its electoral processes, the engagement at KSG comes at a crucial time, reinforcing Kenya’s role in supporting its neighbor’s democratic and institutional growth.

By John Kariuki

Kenya’s coastline is witnessing a resurgence in cruise tourism as Mombasa welcomes two luxury cruise ships, MV Europa and MV World Odyssey, bringing over 1,000 international visitors to the country. This marks a significant boost for the tourism sector, reinforcing the government’s efforts to position Kenya as a leading destination for maritime travel.

Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano expressed her delight at the arrival of the vessels, highlighting the positive impact of cruise tourism on Kenya’s economy and international appeal.

“At a time when we are working smart to increase inbound visitor numbers, it’s truly gratifying to welcome these two cruise ships to Mombasa,” she stated. “This is a strong indicator that Kenya is regaining its stature as a preferred destination for luxury cruise travelers.”

The momentum is set to continue, with yet another cruise ship expected to dock at the Mombasa port in the coming week, carrying an estimated 2,000 visitors. The growing number of cruise liners choosing Mombasa as a stopover destination signals renewed confidence in Kenya’s tourism infrastructure and its ability to cater to high-value travelers.

Miano commended the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) for its commitment to enhancing Mombasa’s appeal as a world-class cruise port. “Kudos to the Kenya Ports Authority for making Mombasa a preferred port of call for cruise ship adventure,” she said, acknowledging the efforts in improving port facilities, security, and efficiency in handling international tourists.

The arrival of these cruise ships is a significant economic boost for Mombasa and its surrounding regions. Thousands of visitors disembarking from these vessels provide direct business opportunities to local tour operators, transport providers, hotels, restaurants, and artisans selling souvenirs. As cruise passengers explore Mombasa’s rich cultural and historical attractions—including Fort Jesus, Old Town, pristine beaches, and wildlife sanctuaries—local businesses benefit from increased spending, further strengthening the coastal economy.

Kenya has been making strides in revamping its cruise tourism sector, with a focus on modernizing port infrastructure, improving passenger handling facilities, and enhancing security to attract more international cruise liners. The Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) and the Ministry of Tourism have been actively promoting the country as a prime cruise destination, capitalizing on its diverse offerings, from coastal experiences to safari adventures in nearby national parks such as Tsavo and Amboseli.

With continued investments and strategic marketing, Kenya is poised to become a leading cruise tourism hub in the region, drawing more luxury liners and high-spending travelers to its shores. As more cruise ships dock in Mombasa, the outlook for Kenya’s tourism industry remains promising, reinforcing the country’s commitment to sustainable tourism growth and economic prosperity.

By John Kariuki

The Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA) Nyeri office has reaffirmed its commitment to creating business opportunities for micro and small enterprises (MSEs) through its engagement in the Ruringu Affordable Housing Project. The team recently conducted a follow-up visit to assess the project’s progress and discuss potential involvement for MSEs in subcontracting opportunities.

During the visit, MSEA Nyeri held discussions with the contractor to explore how local enterprises could participate in the project. The assessment aimed to determine the right timing for MSEs to commence work and contribute to the development of the housing units. The office expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far, noting that the project is advancing as planned.

The contractor provided positive projections, indicating that subcontracting for essential components such as doors and windows could begin in May. This presents a crucial opportunity for small businesses to secure contracts, gain experience in large-scale construction projects, and contribute to Kenya’s affordable housing agenda.

Through such initiatives, MSEA continues to play a key role in integrating small businesses into national development projects, fostering economic growth, and ensuring that local enterprises benefit from government-driven infrastructure programs. The engagement in the Ruringu Affordable Housing Project reflects MSEA’s broader mission of supporting MSEs through capacity building, market access, and strategic partnerships.

By John Kariuki

The Kenya Institute of Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA) is a pivotal public institution that has played a critical role in shaping the country’s policy landscape. Established under the Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA) Act Cap. 112A, the institution stands as a state corporation committed to offering top-tier policy advice to the Government of Kenya and other stakeholders. KIPPRA is tasked with conducting in-depth policy research and analysis and providing capacity building to contribute to the realization of Kenya’s long-term development objectives. Through its work, KIPPRA continues to influence national policies and strategies for sustainable development.

One of the figures synonymous with the growth and visibility of KIPPRA is Dr. Rose Ngugi, the Executive Director Emeritus. During her tenure, Dr. Ngugi left an indelible mark on the institution, helping elevate KIPPRA to global recognition. Her selfless service and unwavering dedication saw the institute gain prominence not only within Kenya but also regionally and internationally. A true testament to the power of female leadership, Mrs. Ngugi shattered barriers and demonstrated that no human is limited in their potential to excel.

Dr. Ngugi’s legacy is marked by her profound contributions to policy research, with a focus on providing technical guidance and capacity building in policy and strategy formulation. Through these efforts, she significantly impacted the development goals of Kenya and supported various stakeholders in achieving their objectives. Her guidance has undoubtedly shaped the direction of Kenya’s public policy landscape.

Before her impactful role at KIPPRA, Dr. Ngugi was a Senior Advisor in the Office of the Executive Director for Africa Group 1 at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in Washington D.C. Her experience at the IMF, combined with her leadership at KIPPRA, cemented her as a key player in global public policy discussions. Furthermore, her contributions extended to the Central Bank of Kenya’s Monetary Policy Committee, where she provided expert advice on matters related to monetary policy.

In addition to her policy work, Dr. Ngugi’s academic contributions are highly regarded. She served as a lecturer at the University of Nairobi’s School of Economics, where she imparted her wealth of knowledge on public policy, the financial sector, and economic reforms. Her extensive academic background includes a PhD from the Business School at Birmingham University, UK, specializing in Financial Markets, alongside a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Nairobi.

Throughout her career, Dr. Ngugi has published widely on a range of topics, including public policy, financial sectors, investments, and institutional reforms. Her research continues to inspire policy makers, academics, and leaders alike, and her enduring influence on Kenya’s public policy cannot be overstated.

Dr. Rose Ngugi remains a beacon of excellence in public service, a role model for women in leadership, and a shining example of how dedication, expertise, and a passion for national development can create lasting change. Her work continues to resonate within the realms of policy and beyond, and her legacy will forever be etched in the history of KIPPRA and Kenya’s development.

Eng. Maurice Akech, Executive Director and Registrar of Contractors at National Construction Authority

By John Kariuki

The National Construction Authority (NCA) has launched an investigation following the collapse of a third-floor slab at a commercial and residential development in Nairobi on Tuesday, 11th February 2025. The incident, which occurred at approximately 5:30 PM, resulted in the tragic loss of one construction worker’s life, while others at the site managed to escape unscathed.

According to initial reports, the workers were in the process of casting the slab when the structure gave way. Preliminary assessments by NCA engineers and investigators point to poor falsework (temporary support structures) as the possible cause of the collapse. However, authorities have launched a full-scale investigation to determine the exact cause and assess whether there were violations of construction safety standards.

The project was officially registered with NCA under registration number 53127415710791. It is being developed by Rodol Homes Ltd, with Architect Bhumpinder Singh Dogra (A457), Engineer Byakika Fredrick Patrick (E314), and Quantity Surveyor Kennedy Odhiambo (Q705) leading the consultancy team. The main contractor, Gokul Builders Ltd (2983/B/0314), is also under investigation as authorities examine compliance with safety regulations.

Following the collapse, officers from the National Police Service and the NCA secured and cordoned off the site to prevent unauthorized access and preserve evidence. Authorities are conducting structural assessments, reviewing construction approvals, and interviewing witnesses to establish liability.

In an official statement, Eng. Maurice Akech, Executive Director and Registrar of Contractors at NCA, assured the public that any person or entity found to have acted negligently or in violation of construction laws will face strict legal consequences. He emphasized that safety in Kenya’s construction industry is a top priority, and enforcement measures will be taken against those responsible.

This tragic event underscores the urgent need for stricter enforcement of building regulations in Kenya’s booming real estate sector. The construction industry continues to experience rapid growth, but incidents like this highlight the importance of adhering to safety standards to prevent avoidable disasters. As investigations progress, key stakeholders will be watching closely to see what measures will be implemented to enhance accountability, compliance, and worker safety in the sector.

By John Kariuki

Zetech University proudly hosted over 300 secondary school heads at its Technology Park Mang’u Campus for the Kenya Secondary Schools Heads Association (KESSHA) – Kiambu Chapter Conference. The conference served as a platform for key education stakeholders to engage in insightful discussions on critical issues shaping Kenya’s education system. Topics ranged from the implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) to curriculum delivery, learners’ performance, institutional leadership, and student welfare.

The event attracted notable education leaders, including Dr. Patrick Mathu, KESSHA Kiambu Chairperson; Mr. Wanjohi S. Mwangi, Kiambu County Director of Education; Mr. Joseph Kiige, TSC Kiambu County Director; and Ms. Agnes Theuri, County Quality Assurance & Standards Officer. These experts shared their insights on best practices for improving the quality of education in Kiambu and beyond. They emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts between educational institutions, school administrators, and policymakers to ensure that learners receive the best possible education.

A key highlight of the conference was the discussion on CBC implementation, a crucial reform aimed at equipping learners with practical skills and competencies for the modern world. The stakeholders examined the successes and challenges of the curriculum, emphasizing the need for continued training and capacity-building programs for educators. Leadership in education institutions was another focal point, with discussions centering on how school heads can effectively manage their institutions to foster a conducive learning environment. Learner performance and well-being were also addressed, with emphasis on holistic education that caters to students’ academic, emotional, and social development.

Zetech University reaffirmed its commitment to supporting education excellence by providing top-tier training opportunities and state-of-the-art facilities that empower both educators and learners. As a future-focused institution, Zetech has positioned itself as a key partner in advancing Kenya’s education sector, ensuring that teachers and students are equipped with the necessary tools to succeed in an ever-evolving academic and professional landscape.

The conference underscored the importance of strong partnerships in shaping a dynamic and progressive education system. Through continued collaboration with key stakeholders, Zetech University remains dedicated to fostering innovation, excellence, and inclusivity in education. By hosting such engagements, the university plays a pivotal role in driving meaningful change that benefits both educators and learners, ultimately contributing to the nation’s development.

By John Kariuki

Mombasa, Kenya – Cabinet Secretary for Lands, Public Works, Housing & Urban Development, Hon. Alice Wahome, today officially opened the Annual Multi-Sectoral Agency Consultative Committee (MSACC) Retreat, bringing together key stakeholders to discuss strategies for safer construction practices in Kenya.

Established in 2015 in response to the alarming collapse of numerous buildings, MSACC is a collaborative platform uniting various sectors in a shared mission to promote safety, equality, and progress within the construction industry. Over the years, the committee has played a critical role in enhancing regulatory compliance, improving building standards, and fostering a culture of accountability across the sector.

This year’s retreat is themed “Multi-Sectoral Interventions for Safer Construction Practices in Kenya.” The discussions aim to address both persistent and emerging challenges in the industry, emphasizing the need for innovation, adaptation, and stronger collaboration among regulatory bodies, industry players, and policymakers. The retreat serves as a vital forum for stakeholders to evaluate current policies, share best practices, and reinforce measures to prevent structural failures that threaten lives and livelihoods.

During her address, CS Alice Wahome underscored the importance of collective responsibility in ensuring that Kenya’s built environment remains safe, sustainable, and resilient. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening enforcement mechanisms, streamlining construction processes, and promoting transparency in the sector.

A key highlight of the event was the relaunch of Ujenzi Magazine, a critical platform for disseminating information from the State Department of Public Works. The magazine will serve as an important resource for industry stakeholders, providing insights into policy updates, best practices, and technological advancements shaping Kenya’s construction landscape.

The retreat was graced by key industry leaders, including the Principal Secretary for Public Works & MSACC Chair, Hon. J. Arumonyang, CBS, National Construction Authority Executive Director, Eng. Maurice Akech, CBS, Machakos County Deputy Governor, H.E. Hon. Francis Mwangangi, and board chairpersons from various institutions.

As Kenya continues to experience rapid urbanization and infrastructure growth, the role of MSACC in fostering a safer and more sustainable construction industry remains paramount. The retreat serves as a powerful reminder that through collaboration, adherence to best practices, and a commitment to excellence, the country can build safer, stronger, and more resilient structures for generations to come.

Together, let us continue to champion integrity, safety, and innovation in Kenya’s construction sector.