Category: Uncategorized

By John Kariuki

The Kenyan government is taking bold steps to address the high cost of animal feed and improve access to quality and affordable raw materials for livestock farmers. In a strategic meeting led by Dr. Andrew Karanja, the Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture, a team from the Association of Kenya Feed Manufacturers discussed sustainable solutions to revitalize the livestock sector.

Key topics of the discussion included making animal feed more affordable for farmers, promoting the local production of essential raw materials such as sunflower, soya, and canola, and ensuring fair practices, compliance, and quality assurance in feed production.

To achieve these goals, the government has launched the Land Commercialization Initiative, a program aimed at large-scale cultivation of critical raw materials for animal feeds. This initiative seeks to reduce Kenya’s reliance on imports, lower production costs, and enhance food security.

Dr. Karanja emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government, private sector players, companies, and farmers. “Our commitment is to boost local production, revitalize the livestock sector, and ensure all farmers have access to affordable, quality feeds,” he said during the meeting.

Mr. Gathogo, a representative of the Association of Feed Manufacturers, hailed the deliberations as progressive and timely. “These steps will significantly transform the livestock feed industry and empower farmers across the country,” he remarked.

As Kenya intensifies efforts to strengthen its agricultural sector, such partnerships and initiatives underscore the government’s commitment to fostering sustainable development, supporting farmers, and driving the country towards food security and economic growth.

A Historic Global Effort: The convention, taking place across two locations – Nairobi and Buenos Aires – is the culmination of over two years of development, 65 workshops in 50+ countries, and contributions from more than 2,000 community members.

● A Decentralized Future: Over 120 elected delegates and alternates will seek to finalize and approve the Cardano Constitution, which will subsequently be ratified through on-chain voting by ADA holders.

● Empowering Local Talent: Cardano’s focus on Africa highlights the continent’s role as a leader in decentralized innovation and financial inclusion. A third of the delegates elected to participate in the constitutional process will be in attendance in Nairobi.

● Unlocking Resources: The governance framework will unlock a treasury worth billions to fund future development and technical enhancements that will benefit and advance Cardano’s mission and growth around the world.

Nairobi, Kenya, December 4-6, 2024 – Intersect, a member-based organization for the Cardano ecosystem, and in close collaboration with Input Output, a leading blockchain infrastructure research and engineering firm, announced the start of the Cardano Constitutional Convention.

This landmark three day event takes place across two locations—Nairobi and Buenos Aires—with elected delegates from around the world gathering to shape the future of Cardano, a blockchain renowned for its scalability, sustainability, and interoperability.

The convention marks a pivotal moment for the Cardano ecosystem, which aims to establish the foundational governance principles for the blockchain. By approving a constitution through a decentralized, community-driven process, the convention underscores Cardano’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and decentralized science (DeSci) initiatives empowering its users with the decision-making authority to drive it forward. The event also highlights Cardano’s leadership in blockchain innovation and its dedication to empowering local talent and communities to have a say in their future.

Africa’s Major Role in Cardano’s Future

Selecting Nairobi as a host city underlines the immense importance of Africa’s role in Cardano’s mission, with one fifth of the convention’s 120 delegates hailing from the continent. These representatives were selected from over 1,200 participants across more than 60 workshops held in 50 countries. This inclusive approach ensures that voices from regions most poised to benefit from blockchain technology play a key role in shaping Cardano’s future.

“Nearly a decade ago, we embarked on a journey to build Cardano. What began as a bold experiment has grown into a global movement—reshaping industries and empowering communities worldwide,” said Charles Hoskinson, Co-Founder of Cardano and CEO of Input Output. “I’ve always emphasized that we’re not just building a blockchain; we’re creating a resilient and inclusive system that can fundamentally change how the world views governance, finance, and society. This vision is now coming to life at the Cardano Constitutional Convention.

“Africa stands to gain immensely from Cardano’s potential to transform lives, promote financial inclusion, and create a more equitable future,” he continued.

“Hosting part of the Constitutional Convention in Nairobi is a reflection of how important this region is to us, and a testament to the incredible talent and commitment within the African Cardano community, “ said Jack Briggs, Intersect Ecosystem Director.

By John Kariuki

In a bold move to safeguard the quality of medicines in Kenya, the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) has introduced a cutting-edge technology dubbed Pillscan, powered by Near Infrared (NIR) technology. This innovation marks a significant milestone in the country’s fight against substandard and falsified medical products, promising to enhance the safety and effectiveness of medicines available to the public.

The Pillscan device, provided by the Mission of Essential Medicines and Supplies, is set to revolutionize the way medical products are monitored. It will be deployed at PPB’s regional offices and key entry points, enabling on-site screening of medicines. This proactive approach is designed to bolster the board’s capacity to identify and eliminate counterfeit drugs before they infiltrate the market.

As part of the implementation phase, PPB staff are undergoing specialized retraining facilitated by software engineers from Global Health Labs USA. The process also includes equipment qualification and the development of a comprehensive library to support the seamless operation of the technology.

“This cutting-edge technology is set to enhance PPB’s quality control systems by detecting substandard and falsified medical products, thereby ensuring the safety, quality, and effectiveness of medicines,” the board said in a statement.

The Pillscan initiative comes at a critical time, with Kenya facing increasing threats from counterfeit and low-quality drugs. Earlier this year, PPB underscored the role of advanced technologies like Pillscan in combating these challenges, ensuring public health is not compromised.

By incorporating such innovative tools into its operations, the PPB is reaffirming its commitment to protecting Kenyans from the dangers of substandard medicines. Pillscan not only signals progress in quality assurance but also strengthens the trust between healthcare providers and the communities they serve.

This landmark development sets the stage for a safer pharmaceutical landscape in Kenya, positioning the PPB as a leader in the region’s fight against counterfeit drugs.

Dr. Karanja emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government, private sector players, companies, and farmers. “Our commitment is to boost local production, revitalize the livestock sector, and ensure all farmers have access to affordable, quality feeds,” he said during the meeting.

Mr. Gathogo, a representative of the Association of Feed Manufacturers, hailed the deliberations as progressive and timely. “These steps will significantly transform the livestock feed industry and empower farmers across the country,” he remarked.

As Kenya intensifies efforts to strengthen its agricultural sector, such partnerships and initiatives underscore the government’s commitment to fostering sustainable development, supporting farmers, and driving the country towards food security and economic growth.

By John Kariuki

The Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA) Marsabit County Office recently visited a local dairy milk business in Saku to promote value addition and formalization of operations. This initiative is part of MSEA’s ongoing efforts to empower small businesses by offering guidance and creating pathways for sustainable growth.

During the visit, MSEA officials encouraged the business to formalize its operations through the MSEA Registrar, a step that opens doors to increased visibility and access to resources. The engagement builds on previous support extended to the enterprise by key partners, including USAID, the World Food Programme (WFP), and the County Government Department of Livestock.

MSEA plans to reinforce these collaborative efforts by providing additional support, such as capacity-building initiatives and linking the business to relevant growth opportunities. This approach is designed to enhance the enterprise’s ability to scale up operations, improve profitability, and contribute to the local economy.

The sensitization visit reflects MSEA’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and strengthening the role of micro and small enterprises in Kenya’s economic development. By prioritizing formalization and value addition, MSEA is empowering local businesses to thrive in competitive markets.

𝐌𝐨𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐬𝐚 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐲
𝐓𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟏𝟎, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒
Kenyan Members of Parliament stole the spotlight during the East African Community Interparliamentary Games (EAC-IPG) held at the Aga Khan Academy in Mombasa.
Day four of the tournament saw a series of exciting contests in the darts category, with Kenyan lawmakers exhibiting their prowess against their regional counterparts.
Leading the charge was Westlands MP, Timothy Wanyonyi Wetang’ula who captained the men’s team with vigour and determination.
In a tense opening match, Wanyonyi faced off against a skilled Ugandan opponent. The match was tight but the Kenyan legislator emerged victorious, winning two rounds to one. His win was met with roaring applause from fans and fellow parliamentarians.
The women’s category also showcased good performances. MP Rose Museo (Makueni) defeated her Ugandan rival in a closely contested match, clinching victory with a 2-1 score.
Meanwhile, Turbo MP Janet Sitienei excited the audience with her impeccable accuracy outclassing her Tanzanian opponent.
In a fiercely fought battle, Nominated Senator George Mbugua narrowly lost to a Tanzanian Lawmaker demonstrating commendable sportsmanship.
Adding to the tournament’s inclusivity, the darts category for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) was officially launched by the Speaker of the East African Legislative Assembly, Rt. Hon. Joseph Ntakirutimana. He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting legislators living with disabilities.
As the games continue, anticipation builds for the next round of inspiring contests. For Kenyan legislators, the stakes remain high and the determination to bring home trophies is unwavering.
The tournament continues this Wednesday at the same venue.

President William Ruto on Monday led the nation in celebrating the second anniversary of the Hustler Fund, a groundbreaking financial inclusion initiative that has redefined access to credit for millions of Kenyans. Launched to uplift informal sector workers—who make up over 80% of the country’s workforce and contribute 33% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP)—the Hustler Fund has become a beacon of hope for individuals at the bottom of the economic pyramid. President Ruto emphasized the government’s commitment to fostering financial independence through targeted interventions in his address. “The Hustler Fund is not just a financial tool; it is a statement that every Kenyan deserves an opportunity to thrive, regardless of their economic status,” he remarked.
Immediately after the pronouncement, various financial experts expressed optimism with this powerful financial transformation tool, terming it instrumental and pivotal in socio-economic transformation, and a key factor in the realization of the Bottom up Economic transformation.
The Founder, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Kenya, East Africa and regional leading Credit-only microfinance, Jijenge Credit Limited Mr. Peter Macharia Kamau observed:
As we mark the milestone, we welcome the series of enhancements to the Fund designed to reward discipline and encourage economic growth. Consistent borrowers will now enjoy higher credit limits as recognition for their repayment discipline. Additionally, borrowers can use their credit scores as collateral to secure larger loans, breaking barriers to traditional collateral requirements. The repayment window for diligent borrowers has also been extended from 14 days to one month, offering more flexibility.

Jijenge Credit Limited, established in 2014, is a licensed digital credit provider approved by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), committed to addressing the pressing market demand for accessible working capital solutions for Individuals and Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

By Steve El Sabai

Today, Booker Omole, a prominent leader of the Communist Party of Kenya (CPMK), joined hands with courageous working-class women from across the country in a bold stand against the rising tide of violence under President William Samoei Ruto’s administration. In an electrifying show of solidarity, the group demanded an end to femicide and other forms of oppression, calling for systemic change to liberate women and all marginalized communities.

Their rallying cry, #EndFemicideKE, resonated across the gathering as they laid bare the grim reality of a government they accused of perpetuating neocolonial fascist policies and failing to address gender-based violence. With unwavering conviction, the demonstrators declared: “Ruto must go!”

Booker Omole emphasized the urgent need to dismantle what he termed a “regime of repression,” vowing to continue mobilizing grassroots movements until justice, safety, and dignity are restored for all women in Kenya. He underscored the importance of unity among Kenyan citizens to confront systemic oppression and create a just and equitable society.

This protest serves as a stark reminder of the deep-rooted issues that have persisted under successive governments and a call to action for every Kenyan to stand in solidarity against femicide and systemic injustice. The message is clear: the time for change is now.

By John Kariuki

Nairobi, Kenya – The President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), Faith Odhiambo, has issued a scathing critique of police brutality during peaceful demonstrations, describing the habit of violently suppressing protests as “incorrigible.” Her statement comes in the wake of a protest advocating for an end to femicide and greater protection of women, during which police reportedly used excessive force on demonstrators.

“There is absolutely no justification for attacking, arresting, and interfering with harmless Kenyans agitating for the protection of women, especially when the threat of violence against women is, ostensibly, a national crisis,” Odhiambo said.

The protest, held in Nairobi earlier today, drew a diverse crowd of citizens calling for urgent government action to combat rising cases of violence against women. Protesters highlighted femicide as a pressing issue, demanding that authorities take meaningful steps to address it. However, the event was marred by reports of police harassment, raising questions about the state’s commitment to upholding constitutional rights.

Odhiambo decried the use of violence by police against citizens exercising their right to picket and demonstrate, urging law enforcement to shift their focus to combating atrocities instead of perpetuating them.

“We support ending femicide, and we support all the brave Kenyans who came out today to call for the overdue change,” she affirmed, adding that such actions show the growing resolve among Kenyans to demand justice and equality.

The protest’s call to action resonates widely as Kenya grapples with a surge in gender-based violence. Advocates argue that urgent systemic reforms and stricter enforcement of laws are necessary to protect vulnerable women and girls across the country.

The LSK’s position underscores the importance of upholding constitutional freedoms while tackling societal issues like gender-based violence. Odhiambo’s remarks serve as a reminder of the state’s responsibility to protect its citizens and their rights rather than infringing upon them.

The incident has sparked further discussions on police accountability and the broader fight for women’s safety in Kenya. As the dust settles on today’s demonstration, the nation awaits action from its leaders to address the grievances raised by citizens.

NAIROBI, KENYA, DECEMBER 10, 2024: Bolt, a leading mobility platform across Africa and Europe, has officially launched Bolt Market, its new grocery delivery service aimed at making everyday shopping more convenient. With this expansion, Bolt taps into the growing demand for fast, on-demand grocery delivery, offering customers a convenient way to access essentials. The move is part of Bolt’s strategy to expand its services, grow its market share, and establish itself as a trusted platform for convenient, on-demand grocery delivery.

Bolt Food app customers can now make grocery delivery orders from 8:00 am to 11:00 pm as well as schedule their essentials and grocery delivery 24 hours in advance. Bolt Market will operate within a 10 km radius from its Bolt Market store in Kilimani. To celebrate this, Bolt Market will offer free delivery to up to 3KM and up to 80% discount. Integrated seamlessly into the Bolt Food app, Bolt Market customers can access over 2,000 carefully curated products in the stores, from fresh produce from local providers to household essentials and beverages.

Bolt Food General Manager, Edgar Kitur said: “With the launch of Bolt Market grocery delivery in Kenya, we aim to better serve a thriving food and grocery ecosystem that is a foundation for a city people love to live in. Bolt Market offers a selection of over 1,500 carefully curated products, from fresh produce to household essentials. The store teams have no interruptions and handle products with care, making sure customers get the quality they would choose on their while saving their time.”

To order groceries from Bolt Market, customers can download the Bolt Food app, where they will be able to see the selection of products offered in the store. Before confirming the order, the app shows the price and estimated delivery time of the order. In order to pay for the order, the customer has to enter their bank card details into the app.

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Hustler Fund borrowers will enjoy enhanced loan limits following the launch of two initiatives to boost its capacity and effectiveness.
Marking the Fund’s second anniversary at the KICC, Nairobi, on Monday, President William Ruto announced the creation of Hustler Fund behavioural credit rating system aimed at expanding credit accessibility to borrowers who repay within the stipulated 14 days.
He also launched the Bridge Loan product, which will enable good borrowers to access larger credit amounts and enjoy a longer repayment period.
The Hustler Fund credit rating system assigns all beneficiaries of the Fund a score ranging from A1 (Very good) to C3 (Very poor).
The score has nine bands: A1, A2, A3, B1, B2, B3, C1, C2 and C3 to indicate credit worthiness.
“We are assigning a credit score to every borrower so that this becomes their new collateral,” the President said.
Depending on the score, some beneficiaries will double or even triple their current limits.
He added that more than two million beneficiaries have demonstrated good borrowing behaviour, and their positive credit behaviour will reward them with higher limits based on their credit worthiness.
President Ruto said the credit score will be automatically adjusted to a beneficiary’s borrowing pattern, thus ensuring transparency in the process
“You don’t have to know the chief, the Principal Secretary or the President to get a good credit rating – all you need is your phone,” he said.
The President urged banks and other financial institutions to use the credit score rating data from the Hustler Fund to assess the credit worthiness of their customers, especially those who have taken loans from the Fund.
“Please pick them up and take them to the next level,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Bridge Loan will transition good borrowers to the mainstream financing sector by exposing them to the banking environment, he said.
The beneficiaries will establish relationships with banks and start gaining the banking experience. Their credit history will inform their bankability.
The repayment period for the loans has also been increased from 14 days to 30 as requested by borrowers. Interest rate remains unchanged at 8 per cent a year.
The product also provides enhanced loan limits depending on the behavioural rating score, allowing beneficiaries to substantially increase their current limits.
“Good borrowers will be able to triple their credit limits. Those who are at KSh50,000 will now be able to borrow up to KSh150,000, while those at KSh5, 000 will move to 15,000 and so on,” he said.
In the two years of the Hustler Fund, it has established credit profiles of 24.7 million Kenyans who have so far benefitted from the Fund’s inaugural personal loan product, which has disbursed over KSh60 billion.
In addition, borrowers of the Fund have saved KSh3.4 billion in mandatory savings of 5 per cent per borrowing, with where 70 per cent going to long-term savings and 30 per cent to short-term.
The President also announced that long-term Hustler Fund savings will be managed by the Kenya National Entrepreneurs Savings Trust, a government pension scheme for Kenyans in the informal sector.
“Instead of putting your money in the bank where it earns 4, 5 or 6 per cent interest, KNEST will give you the Treasury Bill’s rate which currently stands at 11 per cent,” he said. The Principal Secretary State Department of Micro Small Enterprises development, which houses the Hustler fund, Susan Mangeni had this to say on the transformative power of this phenomenal financial inclusion instrument. “Hustler Fund is a credit card that we have offered to Kenyans especially those at the bottom of the economic pyramid to access credit and meet their needs in a dignified manner. We are the first economy in the region and we could even be the first in the world to have come up with such a deliberate and international intervention of depleting financial inclusion in our society.”