Dr. Patrick Kanyoro, the Chairman of Kenya Chamber of Mines has urged President William Ruto to form a special task-force or working group to address the critical issues that will actualize the dream of Kenyans to benefit from the mineral resources within its borders.
” We have Kenyans of outstanding intellectual and moral capacity that would be willing to deliver on this mandate even on a pro bono basis,” Kanyoro said.
He noted that budgetary constraints should not stand in the way of Kenyans being able to join the league of nations that have responsibly exploited their natural resources and positively impacted the quality of life of their citizens.
He added that the team should include cutting edge brains with high index on outstanding service to diverse sectors and the country across manufacturing, trade, investment, industrialization, environment and mining.
He revealed that geologists and mining engineers must be part of this team as they are experts in this space.
This unprecedented policy initiative will attract domestic and foreign investments as the world moves to cleaner energy
This team must align existing trade policies to the emerging realities of of AfCFTA and ensure seamless integration of Kenya’s mining and mineral products into the global market
Dr Simon G.G. Gichuru is a renowned vet from Murang’a
By John Kariuki
Dr. Simon Gathii Gichuru, a leading veterinarian from Murang’a and founder of Murang’a Veterinary Center, is championing the importance of effective dry cow management to enhance dairy productivity.
Dry cow management involves caring for dairy cows during the non-milking phase, particularly when they are pregnant. Dr. Gichuru highlights the critical need for balanced nutrition during this period, ensuring cows maintain adequate energy and body condition to support the developing calf and prepare for lactation.
Dr. Gichuru’s brand, Sygad Supplements, provides specially formulated mineral and vitamin blends designed for this crucial phase. “Our Udder Booster promotes udder cell multiplication, maximizing milk production post-calving,” he explained. He recommends introducing supplements 45 days before calving to support both the mother and calf.
Additionally, he emphasized mastitis prevention during the dry period, noting that microbes can invade the udder when the teat canal is vulnerable. “At Sygad, our supplements mixed with feeds improve udder health, reducing mastitis risks and ensuring high milk yield,” said Dr. Gichuru.
Dr. Gichuru encourages dairy farmers to adopt proper dry cow management practices for healthier cows and improved productivity, underscoring his commitment to advancing sustainable farming in Murang’a and beyond.
The cooperative sector continues to play a pivotal role in driving socio-economic transformation under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). At the forefront of this movement is the Kenya National Police DT SACCO, a beacon of excellence in cooperative governance and financial empowerment.
This week, the SACCO marked another milestone with the official opening of its five-day Annual Delegates Training Congress in Mombasa. The event brought together key stakeholders to celebrate and build upon the SACCO’s remarkable achievements, guided by its visionary leadership.
At the heart of this success is the National Chairman, David Sohelo Mategwa, whose steadfast commitment to professionalism and innovation has elevated the SACCO to new heights. Under his leadership, the Kenya National Police DT SACCO has not only solidified its position as one of the best-managed cooperatives in the country but also demonstrated resilience and consistency in maintaining an impressive asset base and outstanding financial performance.
Chairman Mategwa’s focus on empowering delegates through training and promoting good governance has been a game-changer for the SACCO. The ongoing training congress underscores this commitment, equipping members with the knowledge and skills needed to uphold transparency, accountability, and service excellence. His leadership has inspired a culture of trust and dedication, making the SACCO a trusted partner for its members and a pillar of the cooperative sector.
The Kenya National Police DT SACCO’s partnerships with key industry players, including the Cooperative Bank of Kenya, Sacco Societies Regulatory Authority, and Cooperative Alliance of Kenya, further amplify its impact. These collaborations, coupled with the SACCO’s innovative solutions, continue to transform the lives of its members and their families.
As the training congress progresses, it is evident that the Kenya National Police DT SACCO, under the stellar leadership of Chairman David Sohelo Mategwa, is a shining example of how professionalism and vision can drive transformative change in Kenya’s cooperative sector.
This SACCO stands tall as a testament to the power of good governance, inspiring hope and progress for members and setting a benchmark for other cooperatives to emulate.
For over a decade, Jijenge Credit Limited, Kenya’s leading credit-only microfinance institution, has empowered Kenyans with unique financial solutions rooted in transparency, customer focus, and ethical practices. At the forefront of this success is the Founder, Managing Director, and CEO, Mr. Peter Macharia Kamau, who recently offered invaluable financial advice.
“Each step in your financial journey is like a brushstroke on the canvas of your financial masterpiece,” said Mr. Kamau. He emphasized the importance of identifying clear financial goals, creating a realistic budget, building an emergency fund, and planning for inflation to secure a prosperous future.
Mr. Kamau encouraged discipline, regular financial assessments, and prioritizing essentials while saving and investing wisely. “Financial planning is both an art and a science. With the right balance of strategy and intuition, anyone can achieve financial success,” he added.
Under his visionary leadership, Jijenge Credit continues to transform lives, helping Kenyans turn their dreams into reality through innovative and accessible financial solutions.
By: John Kariuki As of 2020, there were about 604,000 new cases of cervical cancer, making it the fourth most common cancer in women around the world. The disease mostly affects middle-aged women in resource-poor areas, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. This demonstrates that low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), reporting 90% of the 342,000 deaths, bear a disproportionately high disease burden. In Kenya, cervical cancer has a devastating impact, with 5,845 new cases recorded in 2022 and more than 3,591 deaths, making it the leading cause of cancer-related mortality among women in the country. As January marks Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, health experts are ramping up efforts to fight one of the most preventable yet deadly cancers. Dr. Catherine Nyongesa, a leading oncologist, is among those advocating for stronger government action to tackle this critical women’s health issue. Dr. Nyongesa stressed the urgency of prioritizing women’s health, stating, “We must confront the systemic barriers that leave women vulnerable, whether in society or in healthcare.” Her call aligns with ongoing awareness campaigns led by healthcare professionals who emphasize early detection and prevention. She highlighted the critical role of regular screening and HPV vaccination, which can significantly lower cervical cancer rates. “Cervical cancer is both preventable and treatable when detected early. Regular screenings and vaccinations are key to reducing its burden and saving lives,” she affirmed. Health officials are urging parents to ensure that girls aged 10 to 14 receive the HPV vaccine, a highly effective measure in preventing cervical cancer. Health officials also encourage women of all ages to undergo routine Pap smears and HPV tests, which can detect pre-cancerous changes at an early stage. The campaign further emphasizes strong collaboration between healthcare providers, policymakers, and communities to improve access to vaccines, screenings, and treatment services. Dr. Nyongesa reiterated that women’s health must remain a national priority to reduce the burden of cervical cancer. This Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, medical professionals and advocates stand together in their mission to raise awareness, enhance access to life-saving services, and work toward the elimination of cervical cancer.
The Chief Executive Officer of Optiven Group, Dr. George Wachiuri, has once again proven that hard work, dedication, and faith in God yield incredible rewards. In a moment of immense pride and gratitude, Dr. Wachiuri celebrated his son, Alex Kariuki Wachiuri, for his exemplary performance in the 2024 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams. Alex emerged as the top student at Pioneer School and ranked 163rd nationwide, achieving a remarkable mean grade of A.
Reflecting on this milestone, Dr. Wachiuri attributed his son’s success to God’s divine favor and grace. “I am deeply thankful to God for rewarding us at this time,” he said. “After years of supporting over 600 orphans and deserving children across Kenya through the Optiven Foundation, God has come knocking in our family. My son Alex’s success is a testimony to God’s faithfulness.”
The Optiven Foundation, a charitable arm of the Optiven Group, has made a significant impact on the lives of countless children in Kenya, offering education, mentorship, and hope to those in need. For Dr. Wachiuri, Alex’s success is not just a family victory but a reminder of the power of giving back and trusting in God’s plan.
Dr. Wachiuri extended heartfelt gratitude to the teachers and management of Pioneer School, who played a pivotal role in nurturing Alex’s academic journey. “I cannot thank the teachers and management of Pioneer School enough for their dedication and hard work,” he said. “They have been instrumental in shaping Alex’s success and the success of many other students.”
In addition to celebrating Alex’s achievement, Dr. Wachiuri took a moment to congratulate all 2024 KCSE candidates. “This year’s cohort has demonstrated resilience and determination despite the challenges faced in the education sector. I applaud every candidate for their hard work and commitment. Your journey has just begun, and the future is bright,” he stated.
Alex’s remarkable performance is a source of inspiration not only to his family but also to the thousands of young people who look up to him. Dr. Wachiuri’s message is clear: faith, family, and giving back can open doors to extraordinary blessings.
As the nation celebrates the success stories from this year’s KCSE results, Alex Kariuki Wachiuri’s journey is a shining example of excellence, perseverance, and the power of God’s favor.
Congratulations to Alex, Dr. George Wachiuri, and the entire Wachiuri family for this outstanding achievement. Indeed, the sky is the limit for this young trailblazer, and we can only look forward to what the future holds for him.
The Hustler Fund, a groundbreaking financial inclusion initiative launched by President Ruto’s administration, is transforming the credit landscape in Kenya. By addressing the needs of the informal sector and uplifting those at the bottom of the economic pyramid, the Fund is creating new pathways for financial empowerment and economic growth.
In its latest innovation, the Hustler Fund introduced the “Bridge Loan,” a financial product specifically designed for borrowers with strong credit ratings. This offering allows users to graduate from smaller personal loans to enhanced financing options, enabling them to scale their businesses and access new opportunities.
Since its launch in November 2022, the Hustler Fund has disbursed an impressive KSh 62 billion, directly benefiting over 25 million Kenyans. This achievement underscores its critical role in addressing the gaps in Kenya’s credit market, where many remain unserved and unbanked due to high-risk profiles, lack of collateral, and limited credit histories.
The Fund not only provides access to credit but also offers a platform for credit repair. It gives Kenyans who were previously blacklisted by credit reference bureaus an opportunity to rebuild their creditworthiness and re-enter the mainstream financial ecosystem. Additionally, the Fund integrates a mandatory savings mechanism, with 5% of each borrowing allocated to savings. Of this, 70% goes toward pension contributions, while 30% remains accessible for short-term needs. Voluntary savings options are also available, empowering beneficiaries to save for targeted investments such as affordable housing.
Principal Secretary in the State Department of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, Ms. Susan Mangeni, described the Bridge Loan as a transformative addition to the Fund’s portfolio. “The Bridge Loan, which seeks to graduate successful Hustler Fund borrowers to enhanced financing in the commercial banking sector based on their credit ratings, has already disbursed over KSh 650 million since its rollout three weeks ago,” said PS Mangeni.
She emphasized that beneficiaries of the Bridge Loan will also benefit from strengthened relationships with banks, gaining the experience needed to expand their access to formal credit lines. “For business borrowers, this initiative creates an opportunity to be mainstreamed into a supportive financial ecosystem that goes beyond credit access. It includes capacity building, financial literacy, and market linkages,” she added.
The Bridge Loan, with an extended repayment term of 30 days compared to the 14 days offered on personal loans, is offered at a competitive interest rate of 8% per annum. This extended term and lower rate provide much-needed flexibility to borrowers, enabling them to invest in larger projects and scale their operations.
The launch of the Bridge Loan comes at a crucial time as Kenya’s start-up ecosystem continues to grow. However, with nearly 70% of start-ups failing within their first three years, access to capital remains a significant challenge. PS Mangeni noted that the government’s ongoing efforts, including the Start-Up Bill, aim to create a more favorable environment for innovation and investment. The Bridge Loan is expected to play a key role in addressing these challenges, reducing risks for entrepreneurs, and increasing their chances of success.
The Hustler Fund’s introduction of the Bridge Loan marks a significant evolution in Kenya’s financial landscape. By offering enhanced limits, longer repayment periods, and a pathway to mainstream banking, the Fund is empowering low-income earners to achieve greater financial independence.
For many borrowers, the opportunity to transition from smaller personal loans to business-oriented financing could be the catalyst for unlocking significant economic potential. As the Hustler Fund continues to expand its offerings, it is proving to be a vital instrument in Kenya’s quest for equitable and sustainable economic growth.
With initiatives like the Bridge Loan, the Hustler Fund reaffirms its commitment to fostering an inclusive financial ecosystem that supports individuals and businesses alike. This transformative approach is not only breaking barriers but also paving the way for a more prosperous future for millions of Kenyans.
Her Excellency Faith Mony Odhiambo, President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), has been appointed by President William Ruto to serve on a newly established 35-member task force to address the alarming rise in Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and femicide cases.
Under the leadership of Justice Nancy Baraza, the task force has been given a critical mandate: to analyze trends, identify hotspots, and tackle the root causes of GBV and femicide. The team will evaluate existing legal and policy frameworks, recommend improvements, and advocate for stronger enforcement mechanisms to close gaps in protecting vulnerable individuals. Their work aims to deliver actionable solutions on prevention, investigation, prosecution, and survivor support, ensuring a robust institutional response to these crimes.
President Faith Mony Odhiambo has been a vocal advocate against GBV and femicide. She has consistently condemned such acts while championing efforts to ensure survivors have prompt access to justice. “The rising cases of femicide are a blatant violation of constitutional principles and human dignity. They defy the values of equity, social justice, and inclusiveness enshrined in Article 10(2)(b) and Article 19(2) of our Constitution,” she stated.
Kenya is also bound by international treaties such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women and the Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women, which emphasize the need to protect women from violence and uphold their right to life and security. These instruments highlight the necessity of a comprehensive legal approach to safeguard women and marginalized groups.
The Kenyan Constitution provides a robust legal framework with over 20 provisions addressing issues of femicide and violence against women, reinforcing the commitment to human dignity and protection for all.
The task force’s work will be pivotal in building a safer, more equitable society where acts of violence against women are no longer tolerated. As President Faith reiterates, “It is our collective responsibility to ensure justice, equity, and the protection of human dignity for all Kenyans.”
Nairobi, Kenya – Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano has reaffirmed the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife’s dedication to achieving seven Key Result Areas (KRAs) as the sector enters a new year. Speaking during a Heads of Department meeting with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), Miano emphasized the importance of taking stock of progress and realigning strategies to ensure effective execution of the ministry’s mandate.
The Ministry’s Key Result Areas focus on strengthening policy, legal, and institutional frameworks to enhance governance structures. They include promoting capacity development, research, and innovations to foster skills enhancement and new solutions in the industry. Resource mobilization and investment remain central to attracting funding and sustainable growth, alongside the development, diversification, marketing, and promotion of unique tourism products to elevate Kenya’s global appeal.
Other critical areas include safeguarding ecosystem integrity and fostering human-wildlife coexistence to maintain ecological balance. Addressing climate change and adapting to emerging challenges is also a priority, as is ensuring access to and the sustainable use of tourism and wildlife resources.
Joined by Principal Secretary Alfred Museiya, Miano expressed the ministry’s resolve to champion these priorities. “As we begin the year, taking stock of our progress and realigning our execution strategies is key. These areas are vital in driving the sustainable growth of Kenya’s tourism and wildlife sectors,” she said.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders from KWS and other departments to appraise the ministry’s plans and ensure coordinated efforts in delivering on its mandate.
The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife remains committed to positioning Kenya as a global leader in sustainable tourism while safeguarding its rich biodiversity for future generations.
Hon. Mary Otucho Emaase, the Member of Parliament for Teso South, has extended her heartfelt congratulations to the KCSE Class of 2024, applauding their remarkable achievements and resilience in navigating their academic journey.
In her message, Hon. Emaase celebrated the dedication and hard work of all students who received their KCSE results, noting that this milestone marks the beginning of a promising new chapter in their lives.
The MP also acknowledged the efforts of the Optiven Foundation in supporting bright minds across the country. “A special shout-out to the brilliant minds supported by the Optiven Foundation. Your success is our pride, and we are honored to have been part of your journey,” she said, commending the organization for its role in nurturing future leaders.
On a personal note, Hon. Emaase expressed immense joy and gratitude as her own son emerged among the top achievers. “His stellar performance is a testament to God’s grace and the unwavering support of family and mentors,” she remarked, emphasizing the importance of a strong support system in achieving academic excellence.
To all students, Hon. Emaase offered words of encouragement, urging them to view their results as a solid foundation for future success. “Embrace the knowledge, wisdom, and understanding you’ve gained, and let them guide you as you ascend the ladder of life,” she advised.
She concluded her message with a blessing for the Class of 2024, wishing them success, favor, and divine protection as they embark on the next phase of their journey. “May you become the visionary leaders who will propel Africa to new heights,” she said.
