The Kenya Women Senators Association (KEWOSA) embarked on a transformative journey, ushering in new leadership focused on accountability, presence and purpose.
Senator Veronica Maina was elected Chairperson on 1st April 2025, leading alongside Vice Chair, Senator Hezena Lemaletian. Senators Beth Syengo, Mariam Omar and Esther Okenyuri continue their roles as Secretary, Treasurer and Organizing Secretary, respectively. They promised their commitment to creating a more inclusive and purpose-driven KEWOSA, ensuring that no woman is left behind.
KEWOSA is also confronting a national crisis, the rising tide of gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide. In a press statement this Wednesday, KEWOSA expressed its outrage over the increasing violence against women and girls across the country demanding action.
โWe mourn the loss of 17-year-old Gaala Aden Abdi from Wajir, murdered for rejecting an arranged marriage. We remember the woman in Baringo, tragically killed by her estranged husband in front of her children. We stand with widows in Kisii and Nyamira, who are stripped of their dignity by outdated customs. These are not traditions they are crimes,โ said Chairperson Sen. Maina.
While appreciating the governmentโs allocation of Ksh. 100 million under the leadership of the President to combat GBV and femicide, KEWOSA stressed that laws alone are insufficient without implementation. With counties like Nairobi, Kiambu and Nakuru grappling with alarming cases, KEWOSA is taking the fight to the grassroots. Each nominated senator has been allocated KSh 930,000 to lead advocacy and community sensitization programmes tailored to their constituencies.
โFrom advocating for gender desks in police stations, expediting GBV case prosecutions and promoting responsible media reporting, to fostering community-centered action and empowering survivors, KEWOSA is declaring: Enough is enough. Todayโs message is not just a statement. Itโs a call to action,โ Sen. Maina affirmed.
The ICC World Federation of Chambers (WCF) and the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KICC), in partnership with Absa Bank Kenya, host the WCF Africa Summit from 9 to 10 April 2025 at the KICC in Nairobi.
Nairobi, 8th April 2024 – Nairobi hosts delegates from over 70 countries during the World Chambers Federation (WCF) Africa Summit on 9th and 10th April 2025. This high-level summit, held in partnership with the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), the World Chambers Federation (WCF) and Absa Bank Kenya, is bringing together global and regional stakeholders in trade, investment, and development.
This landmark event is organised under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework to promote economic growth, innovation, and collaboration. Under the theme โAfricaโs Global Future: Integrated, Innovative, and Sustainable, ” the summit will focus on innovation and digital transformation, such as artificial intelligence, to enhance trade. It will also address the integration of sustainability into trade and investment discussions, aiming for commitments to green growth, climate-friendly business practices, and strategies for inclusive trade that involve women and youth in commerce.
During the summit’s opening ceremony President Ruto emphasised the importance of Chambers of Commerce in pushing for trade integration especially in Africa.
โChambers of Commerce are indispensable because they bring a proactive and a solution-oriented perspective thus the KNCCI and World Chamber Federation serve as vital bridges between government and enterprise helping businesses navigate risks, unlock opportunities and expand into global markets. Their advocacy and support empower local entrepreneurs to think globally and act boldly. In Kenya, we fully embraced this transformation and in 2022, 41% of our exports were destined for African countries. Our manufacturers and tech start-ups are expanding across the region demonstrating our strong conviction that Kenyaโs and Africaโs fortune lies in intra-trade,โ said President Ruto
On her part Absa Bank Kenya Business Banking Director Elizabeth Wasunna praised the efforts of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and the World Chambers Federation in providing a platform for a vital discussion on Africaโs trade and investment future.
โThis forum gathers the right people, including government leaders, business leaders, and policymakers, to align on strategies that unlock Africaโs full economic potential. At Absa, we focus on strategically providing the necessary frameworks to support SMEs, including women, for growth in Kenya, across Africa, and globally. Our commitment to empowering Africaโs tomorrow together remains steadfast, and this summit presents an opportunity for Absa to demonstrate our dedication to advancing Africaโs economy,โ said Wasunna.
โWe know that Africa faces a big challenge of a financial gap of USD 100 billion annually, while governments build physical infrastructure, as Chambers of Commerce our focus is to form trusted networks enabling trade despite the physical limitations in terms of logistics in Africa, provide business intelligence information so that MSMEs can be able to trade across Africa and globally, and distribution solution mechanisms which KNCCI is best known to solve trade disputes,โ said KNCCI President Erick Rutto.
The two-day summit will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, and engaging networking sessions designed to drive Africaโs economic transformation and pave the way for the continentโs next era of growth and prosperity.
Kenya has been ranked as the fourth best-performing tourism destination in Africa, a recognition announced during the 2nd UN Tourism Africa and Americas Ministerial Summit held in Livingstone, Zambia. The accolade is a testament to Kenya’s growing appeal and the remarkable recovery of its tourism sector in the post-pandemic era.
Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, speaking in Mombasa earlier this year, released the Annual Tourism Sector Performance Report for 2024, revealing impressive growth figures. According to Miano, international tourist arrivals rose by 15%, reaching 2.4 million visitors compared to 2.08 million in 2023.
โThese numbers are not just statistics โ they reflect the hard work, strategic investment, and innovation that have revitalized our tourism sector,โ Miano said. โOur aggressive marketing campaigns, product diversification, enhanced connectivity through new flights, and adoption of digital platforms have made Kenya a competitive global destination.โ
Tourism earnings also saw a sharp rise, increasing by 19.79% from KSh 377.49 billion in 2023 to KSh 452.20 billion in 2024. Domestic tourism contributed significantly to this growth, with bed-night occupancy rising by 12%, from 4.6 million in 2023 to over 5.1 million in 2024.
Cruise tourism also witnessed a remarkable upswing. In 2024, Kenya welcomed 6,561 cruise tourists โ a staggering 163.5% increase from 2,490 the previous year.
The recognition at the UN Tourism Summit solidifies Kenyaโs position as one of the continentโs leading tourism destinations. Looking ahead, Miano expressed confidence in the sectorโs future trajectory.
โBased on current trends and our growth strategy, we remain optimistic that Kenya is on course to welcome 3 million visitors by 2025, potentially generating KSh 560 billion in tourism earnings,โ she stated.
Kenyaโs diverse offerings โ from wildlife safaris and cultural heritage to coastal retreats and adventure experiences โ continue to draw international
By Churchil Barasa Nairobi, Kenya โ April 9, 2025 You are cordially invited to Kenya High School, Nairobi, where the Kenya Education Fund (KEF) hosted an impactful Life Skills Workshop for Form 2 and Form 3 students. The event, held on the morning of April 9th, brought together students, parents, educators, and volunteers in a vibrant gathering centered on personal growth, mental wellness, and academic preparation.
The workshops were part of KEFโs broader initiative to empower its scholarship recipients with critical life skills throughout their four-year high school journey. A total of 365 studentsโ205 from Form 2 and 160 from Form 3โbenefited from the sessions, which focused on developing well-rounded, resilient, and future-ready individuals.
For the Form 2 cohort, this marked the second installment in the KEF life skills series. Students explored a range of topics including effective communication, self-awareness, drug awareness, character development, and reproductive health. The workshop also included academic and career guidance, where learners evaluated their community service projects and fine-tuned their action plans. A key highlight was a mental wellness session facilitated by KCB Foundation, which equipped students with practical coping strategies to manage stress and anxiety.
Meanwhile, the Form 3 workshop kicked off with a special parentsโ meeting, emphasizing the importance of parental involvement beyond financial support. Discussions covered financial literacy and the shared responsibility of nurturing successful, ethical, and community-minded youth.
Form 3 students engaged in sessions on responsible social media use, decision-making, and problem-solving, along with personal resilience and talent development. They also reflected on their community service experiences and laid out plans for sustained engagement in their localities. KEF further supported them with new school uniforms, shoes, and essential textbooks, ensuring no barrier hindered their progress.
The workshops were enriched by the presence of over 30 KEF Alumni volunteers, who served as mentors, and a licensed therapist, who offered one-on-one counseling to support studentsโ mental health.
Through these workshops, KEF reaffirmed its mission to go beyond scholarships and invest in the holistic development of every student. As the students left the hall, many carried not just new knowledge and resources, but also renewed purpose and confidence.
The Board of The Nairobi Hospital has maintained its firm commitment to service delivery and institutional integrity. In a press conference in Nairobi on Tuesday, the Board addressed concerns following a resurgence of reports concerning internal management matters.
Speaking at the briefing, the newly appointed Board Chair, Barcley Onyambu, emphasised the Hospital’s continued dedication to providing quality healthcare to patients and upholding its role as a trusted institution at the heart of Kenya’s healthcare system.
“Leadership confidence is vital to any institution, particularly one central to the health of the community such as The Nairobi Hospital,” said the Chair. “The recent reports on integrity and leadership are isolated and do not detract from our focus. The Board continues to work cohesively, guided by a strong leadership team and a commitment to shared values.”
Adding to the discussion, the Acting CEO, Felix Osano, stated, “Our commitment to excellence remains steadfast. We are taking decisive steps to address challenges and ensure that The Nairobi Hospital remains a beacon of trust and quality healthcare in Kenya.”
The Nairobi Hospital has been making changes in its board of directors in a move aimed at enhancing governance and operational excellence. The newly appointed members bring diverse expertise and fresh perspectives that will strengthen strategic oversight and institutional decision-making.
“We believe that the changes we have made in our board will accelerate our momentum towards institutional excellence,” added Onyambu.
The Board acknowledged the challenges faced in recent months, including the ongoing probe by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). The investigation, which began with a raid at the hospital, has raised concerns about patient confidentiality and the handling of sensitive data. The High Court has since issued orders staying the probe and granted anticipatory bail to Board members. The hospital has assured stakeholders that it cooperating fully with authorities while safeguarding its patients’ privacy and is coop institutional integrity.
Additionally, the hospital has faced internal wrangles, including disputes over doctor suspensions and governance issues. These challenges have prompted calls for leadership changes and a renewed focus on transparency and collaboration.
Despite these hurdles, the Board remains optimistic about the future. Measures are already in place to safeguard business continuity and ensure that core services and hospital operations remain uninterrupted.
“We recognise that we will be judged by how well we lead the hospital beyond this period. Our dedicated staff continues to deliver uninterrupted and quality service to the public.”
The Board thanked all partners, patrons, staff, and well-wishers for their continued support during the hospital’s difficult period.
“Kenyans faith in this institution has not gone unnoticed. As we navigate this chapter, we pledge to fully repay your trust in us and continue serving you in the best way possible,” Onyambu noted.
The Kenya Women Parliamentarians KEWOPA has issued critical recommendations to the Technical Working Group on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Femicide, calling for action to halt the escalating GBV crisis in Kenya. We advocate for a comprehensive review of current GBV law, including consideration of the escalating threats of digital GBV, such as cyberstalking and doxing. We emphasize improving access to justice for survivors of GBV, including simplifying reporting processes, enhancing evidence collection, and accelerating prosecution. We also recommend gender-responsive courts and GBV coordination of data in order to efficiently monitor and counter the issue. KEWOPA proposes operationalizing the Victim Protection Board and Trust Fund, with KEWOPA urging the government to fulfill its role in empowering survivors.
KEWOPA calls for action against life-threatening social norms and increasing misogyny with demands for stronger women empowerment programs and eradication of harmful cultural practices.
MOMBASA, KENYA, APRIL 7, 2025 โ 100 dependents, aged 18-25, of Kenya Navy servicemen and women have graduated with plumbing and electrical skills from the 3rd cohort of the partnership between The Family Group Foundation and the Military Wives Association of Kenya (MWAK).
Speaking at the graduation ceremony held at Mtongwe Kenya Navy Headquarters, Chief of Defence Forces, General Charles Kahariri, commended the programโs impact in equipping young people with marketable skills.
โI am pleased to witness the profound impact this training program has had on these deserving young men and women. It is evident that the initiative went beyond technical skills, equipping participants with soft skills, financial literacy, and essential toolkits to give them a competitive edge in the job market. My office is committed to scaling up and expanding this opportunity to empower even more young people, ensuring they have the skills and resources needed to build successful careers,” he said.
This partnership has now successfully graduated three cohorts, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to 201. The first cohort saw 51 graduates from Kenya Army dependents, while the second cohort included 50 graduates from Kenya Air Force dependents.
“At Family Bank, we believe that true impact goes beyond banking, itโs about transforming lives and building a legacy of opportunity. With over KES 55 million invested in vocational training, we are not just equipping young Kenyans with skills; we are shaping futures, strengthening families, and fueling economic resilience,” said Family Bank CEO Nancy Njau
“We are proud that 87% of beneficiaries have attained National Construction Authority (NCA) accreditation, 15% have joined the Kenya Defence Forces as skilled tradesmen, 23% have upskilled in solar energy, and over 30% have transitioned into employment, while others are exploring entrepreneurship. These outcomes reflect the transformative power of vocational training in securing a brighter future for our youth,โ she said.
This project is under the Foundationโs Shared Values Initiatives in construction, entrepreneurship, development, and business management services dubbed the Tufuzu Youth Entrepreneurship Development Project, which provides young adults technical training and access to labour markets, financing, and linkages to other strategic partners.
โThis program is structured under our education pillar as an association, with this partnership serving as a key enabler. We are also pleased to have the Kenya Navy co-invest in this cohort by sponsoring 50 students, complementing the 50 students sponsored by the Foundation. This joint effort strengthens our mission to empower and uplift young talent,โ said Military Wives Association of Kenya Chairperson Maโam Grace Kahariri.
The three-month training program integrates hands-on technical training certified by the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) and the NCA, ensuring that graduates meet industry standards. It also aims to accelerate access to dignified and sustainable income opportunities within the KDF fraternity.
Yesterday, the Director General of the Kenya Wildlife Service, Prof. Erustus Kanga, held strategic meetings at Chuka University and Tharaka University, accompanied by Prof. Yan Xue from the Sino-African Joint Research Center, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences. They were warmly received by Prof. Henry M. MโIkiugu, Vice Chancellor of Chuka University, and Prof. Peter K. Muriungi, Vice Chancellor of Tharaka University. The meetings focused on exploring potential areas of partnership, including: โ Climate-smart agriculture โ Biodiversity conservation and restoration โ Ecosystem conservation โ Staff and student exchange programs All parties agreed to immediately initiate frameworks for collaboration. This partnership is poised to create jobs and improve local livelihoods, expand space for wildlife to roam freely, and empower farmers with modern agricultural technologies to boost their harvests. Additionally, it aims to ensure the protection of water resources and the environment through sustainable practices and shared innovation. These efforts align with the Kenya Wildlife Service Strategic Plan 2024โ2028, which champions thriving wildlife populations, peaceful coexistence between people and wildlife, and resilient ecosystems that are rich in biodiversity. During the meetings, Prof. Kanga delivered a compelling presentation titled โThriving Wildlife and Healthy Habitats for All, Forever โ Making Peace with Nature
Geoffrey Kaituko, the Deputy Head of Mission in Rome and outgoing Principal Secretary of the State Department of Shipping and Maritime Affairs, has been at the forefront of strengthening maritime cooperation between Kenya and India. On the occasion of Indiaโs National Maritime Day, Kaituko expressed his heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency Namgya Khampa, the Indian High Commissioner, and reflected on the ongoing partnership that has reached unprecedented levels in recent years.
As the outgoing Principal Secretary for Shipping and Maritime Affairs and Chair of the National Maritime Security Committee, Kaituko has played a pivotal role in fostering Kenyaโs maritime security initiatives. His leadership has been instrumental in supporting collaborative efforts aimed at enhancing regional security in the Indian Ocean, with a special focus on two significant maritime initiatives: IOS Sagar and AIKEYME. These programs are designed to improve safety and security in the Indian Ocean Region, and Kaituko was keen to commend both India and Tanzania for their involvement in conceiving and implementing these initiatives.
“On behalf of the Government of Kenya, I am delighted to recognize the immense strides that have been made in promoting maritime safety in our region,” Kaituko stated. “The efforts by India, particularly in pioneering IOS Sagar and AIKEYME, are invaluable in ensuring that our naval forces are prepared to tackle the challenges we face in the Indian Ocean. This collaboration is a testament to the strength of the bond between Kenya and India.”
Under Kaituko’s guidance, Kenya has seen significant milestones in its maritime relations with India. In the last year, four Indian Navy ships made port calls at Mombasa, and in December 2023, INS Sumedha became the first Indian warship to dock at Port Lamu. These visits underscore the deepening ties between the two countries and set the stage for further cooperation in maritime security.
One of the most notable acts of solidarity was in May 2024, when the Indian Navy provided vital Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) materials to Kenya during devastating floods. This gesture, according to Kaituko, exemplified Indiaโs role as a true friend and neighborโalways willing to extend a helping hand in times of crisis.
โIndiaโs generosity during the floods of May 2024, when the Indian Navy sent aid to Kenya without being asked, highlighted the strong friendship between our nations,โ said Kaituko. “It is in these moments that we realize the true value of partnerships and the strength of regional cooperation.”
Currently, six Kenya Navy personnel are training aboard INS Sunayna, the designated Indian Ocean Ship Sagar, for two months. This joint training initiative is part of Kenyaโs broader efforts to build greater interoperability with regional partners. In addition, the maiden edition of AIKEYME has seen two Kenya Navy ships, Jasiri and Shupavu, participate alongside Indian naval forces, with four Kenya Navy observers taking part in the exercise. Kaituko highlighted the importance of such collaborations in ensuring a more secure maritime environment.
โThrough exercises like AIKEYME, we are not only building stronger ties with India but also ensuring that our naval forces are better equipped to address regional maritime security challenges,โ he added.
Kaitukoโs leadership has been instrumental in driving these collaborative efforts, ensuring that Kenya remains an active participant in regional maritime security initiatives. His vision for a secure and stable Indian Ocean Region is one that has been shared by Kenyaโs naval forces, as well as regional and international partners.
โI am confident that initiatives like IOS Sagar and AIKEYME will continue to bring Kenya and India closer together as we work to address the pressing maritime security issues facing our region,โ Kaituko concluded.
As he prepares to transition from his role as Principal Secretary, Kaituko remains optimistic about the future of Kenyaโs maritime relations, particularly with India, and the continued success of joint efforts aimed at securing the Indian Ocean. He concluded his message with well-wishes for all the nations participating in the maritime initiatives, expressing hopes for continued success, fair winds, and following seas.
The National Construction Authority (NCA) has vowed to take strict action following a tragic incident in Kisii County on Sunday, 6th April 2025, where a four-storey residential building collapsed, resulting in the loss of five lives. Three others were rescued and are currently receiving treatment at a local hospital. The building, located on Plot No. Wanjare/Bogiakumu/2138 in Itierio, was being constructed by Mr. John Chore. The NCA has confirmed that the building was not registered with the Authority, and no contractor or consultant details were available for the project. Furthermore, the NCAโs Nyanza South quality assurance team had issued a suspension order on 3rd September 2024, halting construction due to non-compliance with building standards. Despite the suspension order, the developer resumed work without obtaining the necessary clearance from the NCA. Upon learning of the collapse, the NCA, alongside officers from the Kisii County Government and the National Police Service, swiftly secured the site. Preliminary investigations suggest that poor workmanship and the improper placement of heavy construction materials on the upper floors may have contributed to the collapse. Authorities believe that the overload from the materials led to the structural failure of the building. โThis is a heart-wrenching incident, and our thoughts are with the victims and their families. The failure of this building could have been prevented if the proper procedures and regulations had been followed,โ said Eng. Maurice Akech, Executive Director/Registrar of Contractors at the NCA. โWe have zero tolerance for developers, contractors, or any professionals who ignore building standards or defy official orders. Those responsible will face severe legal consequences.โ This incident in Kisii County is the third major construction-related collapse in the past week. On 3rd April 2025, a building in Mombasa County on Plot No. Mombasa/Block XLVI/195 in Bondeni was reported to be sinking and tilting due to unauthorized additional floors, causing the failure of supporting columns. The building has been condemned and is awaiting demolition. On 2nd April 2025, another building in Suneka Sub-County, Kisii County, collapsed after construction had been halted by the NCA in November 2021. Fortunately, no casualties were reported in that incident. The NCA has expressed deep concern over the increasing frequency of such incidents and is intensifying efforts to ensure that all construction projects comply with safety regulations. A detailed investigation into the cause of the Kisii County collapse is currently underway. The NCA has reiterated its commitment to enforcing building standards and preventing further tragedies in the future.
