The government is setting ambitious goals to transform Kenya’s housing landscape, aiming to construct 250,000 housing units under its Affordable Housing and Social Housing programs. This initiative is a direct response to the constitutional right to adequate housing, a basic social and economic entitlement for all citizens.
A staggering 60% of urban Kenyans currently live in slums or substandard housing, often lacking proper sanitation. This situation not only undermines their dignity but also exposes them to serious health risks.
Mwaura, the government spokesperson, emphasized that the Kenya Kwanza administration is determined to turn this housing crisis into an economic boon. “We see this challenge as an opportunity to drive economic growth,” Mwaura said. “The construction sector alone will create quality jobs for around 100,000 young people, particularly those who graduate from Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.”
Through this initiative, the government hopes to improve living standards while empowering the youth and boosting the economy.
In a ceremonial handover, outgoing Cabinet Secretary for Co-operatives and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Development, Simon Chelugui, called on his successor, Hon. Wycliffe Oparanya, to take an active role in monitoring Kenya’s coffee sector.
During the event, Chelugui emphasized the importance of the ongoing coffee reforms, urging Oparanya to remain vigilant. “Keep a keen eye on the ongoing coffee sector reforms,” Chelugui advised, warning that various vested interests could threaten to derail progress.
Chelugui also encouraged Oparanya to advocate for the development of retail and policy frameworks within the ministry. He noted that when the SME function was split, certain key responsibilities remained under the Ministry of Trade, leaving a gap that needed attention.
Highlighting the sector’s significance, Chelugui stressed the vital role SMEs play in driving Kenya’s GDP growth. “The SME sector has a direct impact on the country’s economic performance,” he noted.
Promising to offer continued support, Chelugui assured his successor, “I will give you the necessary backing to champion the reforms and continue where we left off.”
In response, Oparanya expressed his commitment to building on the progress made. “I am committed to picking up from the solid foundation laid in reviving Kenya’s cooperative movement,” he said, signaling his readiness to take the reins and push forward with ongoing initiatives.
“In particular, the Cooperative Societies Bill No. 7 of 2024 will tackle long-standing governance issues within the cooperatives sector,” Chelugui highlighted. “It aims to reduce conflicts of interest between various organs within cooperative institutions. Additionally, it will support key initiatives such as the Hustler Fund, Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs), the Coffee Bill, and the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) program—each critical for driving progress and achieving better outcomes.”
In response, Oparanya affirmed his commitment to these initiatives, specifically voicing his support for the SACCA Congress. “I am fully committed to supporting the SACCA Congress, which I successfully lobbied to bring to Kenya. It will be held in Naivasha from October 8th, 2024,” Oparanya assured.
Nairobi business man Jimmi Wanjigi who has been a critic of the Kenya Kwanza government speaks to the media accusing the administration of President William Ruto for defining the sanctity of the Kenyan Constitution. Pic. TUM DAVID
by Tum David
The controversial city tycoon Jimmy Wanjigi has decried the spade of political abductions in the country and accused the Ruto administration for the gross violation of the law and the supremacy of the constitution2010.
Citing articles of the constitution that ensures of the fundamental rights of Kenyans, Mr Wanjigi implored upon the IG of Police to reign on his officers and above all obey the dictates of the constitution.
Wanjigi accused the president for turning the Kenya police into a militia.
” We will not yield to Ruto’s tyranny” Wanjigi said in a press briefing.
Wanjigi who has been in and out of police cells in his quest for the rule of law, angrily accused Ruto for atrocities in the country and has equated him with Adolf Hitler, Idi Amin or Al Bashir etc.
One of the ever increasing Naivas Supermarket outlets recently opened in Nairobi. PHOTO: Tum David.
by Tum David
It’s another milestone for the leading Kenya’s premier retail chain, Naivas Supermarket as it unveiled its latest outlet at the Nyali Bazaar Mall in the city of Mombasa on August 29th, 2024.
This new outlet store marks the 105TH branch in the retailer’s extensive network, establishing the supermarket chain as the first in Kenya’s history to achieve a triple-digit in branch growth. The Nyali outlet will be the 12th one in the coastal region.
Strategically located along Links Road, the new branch covers a trading space area of about 5000sq ft. And in line with Naivas tradition, the new store will offer exclusive sales and promotions to the residents of Nyali and its environs aligning them with the brand’s promise of delivering and value.
” This expansion is more than just a strategic move, rather, it’s about meeting our customers right there where they are, ” said Andreas Von Peleske.
Mr Peleske, who is the the Chief Of Strtegy of Naivas Supermarket, said that it’s the Chain’s goal to provide its customers with a convenient access to essential goods and to make their shopping experience quick and easy.
” The new store is designed to offer our customers a seamless shopping experience while reflecting our commitment as a trusted retailer to the Kenyan values and customer needs, ” added Mr Andreas Von Peleske.
The Nyali outlet features a food market store format with a thoughtfully curated range of products, dairy, meat, and general merchandise.
Shoppers can expect the same renowned Kenyan hospitality that Naivas is known for. Looking ahead, the Naivas Supermarket is also planning to open new branches in Mtwapa, Tilisi, and Mavoko.
Wiper leader said he will organise demonstrations if the government Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka has said the opposition will call for nationwide demonstrations over the new university funding model.
Kalonzo said they will lead protests if the government proceeds with the new funding model.
The university funding model was unveiled on May 3, 2024, with President William Ruto championing it as an equaliser in the education sector.
However, Kalonzo said the funding model aims to deny local Kenyans a chance at education.
“This administration has no idea on how to go about it, we will mobilise the country to say no if we are going to make university education only for the rich and not for the poor. The poor will rise and claim their position,” the Wiper leader said.
At the same time, DAP-K party leader Eugen Wamalwa said they will seek justice for university students.
Parents and students have come out to decry the new university funding model saying it promotes inequality.
The President on Sunday defended the funding saying the banding in the new model existed before.
The President said that he has added one band to the four bands that existed before to make them five.
Under the new funding model, students have been put in five bands.
Simon Kabu offered his daughter a holiday after she graduated from Moringa school.
” After hard work, it’s good to travel somewhere and ‘Tell your body ‘, “Thank you!” Maurine Kabu , Safe skies as you head for your graduation holiday to 3 Destinations. Enjoy. #thekabus” Kabu said
Simon Kabu could not hide his joy after his daughter Maurine graduated From Moringa school
Kabu shared a light moment with his daughter as they celebrated the academic milestone
The proud father penned a heart warming message after her daughter graduated from Moringa school
“Jioni me in congratulating my daughter for achieving another milestone in life of IT.Only parents know the joy of such a day .It has taken her sleepness night burning midnight oil till this end.She had often wanted to throw the towel but a word of encouragement kept her going.keep it up.This is just the beginning,” Kabu said
Maurine looked stunning on her graduation.she penneya moving message.
” I take this chance to thank God for this far .For the grace to finish strong.knowledge and understanding. i also want to thank my parents for their continued support and encouragement.my coursemate for our time on projects. Finally my family. Today am such humbled by this milestone.Congratulations ,girl ,”,she wrote
Simon Kabu could not hide his joy after his daughter Maurine graduated from Moringa school.
Kabu shared a light moment with his daughter as they celebrated the academic milestone
The proud father penned a heart warming message after her daughter graduated from Moringa school
“Jion me in congratulating my daughter for achieving another milestone in life of IT. Only parents know the joy of such a day .It has taken her sleepless night burning midnight oil till this end.She had often wanted to throw the towel but a word of encouragement kept her going.keep it up.This is just the beginning,” Kabu said.
Maurine looked stunning on her graduation and she penned a moving message.
” I take this chance to thank God for this far. For the grace to finish strong. Knowledge and understanding. i also want to thank my parents for their continued support and encouragement. my coursemate for our time on projects.Finally my family.Today am such humbled by this milestone.Congratulations ,girl ,”,she wrote.
The third stakeholders convening on enhancing Human Rights in the Eastern Africa region commenced today, drawing attention from key figures in the realm of governance and civil society. The week-long event has been organized by Data4GovAfrica, a consortium of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) from East, Southern, and West Africa committed to strengthening the implementation of the African Union’s African Governance Architecture (AGA) agenda on democracy.
The opening ceremony featured notable speakers, including Chief Justice Emeritus David Maraga, who underscored the critical role of evidence-based decisions in advocacy. Emphasizing the importance of data-driven insights, Maraga remarked, “We all know that societies have gone through conflict and have a common desire to rebuild themselves. Reconciliation, reparation, and reconstitution are the roads that lead to healing. The judiciary plays a crucial role in upholding the rule of law and the dignity of human rights.”
Maraga’s address highlighted the need for strategic direction in human rights advocacy, stressing that CSOs must leverage data to fortify their efforts. He urged these organizations to invest in robust Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) frameworks and to ground their arguments in solid evidence, aligning their work with international standards. He also praised Afrobarometer for its significant contributions in providing valuable data for the continent.
Prof. Karuti Kanyinga from the University of Nairobi institute of development studies Prof. Karuti Kanyinga from the university of Nairobi Instituteof development studies (IDS) delivered a stark warning about the state of democracy across Africa. “Democracy is under attack!” he declared, referencing troubling trends observed throughout the continent. His remarks resonated with the attendees, emphasizing the urgency for concerted efforts to defend democratic principles and human rights.
The convening serves as a vital platform for stakeholders to discuss and strategize on enhancing human rights and democratic governance in Africa. It brings together a diverse array of participants, including policymakers, judicial representatives, civil society leaders, and international partners, all united in their commitment to advancing the AGA’s agenda.
Participants are expected to engage in comprehensive dialogues, share best practices, and develop actionable plans to address the challenges facing human rights and democracy in the region. The emphasis on evidence-based advocacy is anticipated to equip CSOs with the necessary tools to influence policy and effect meaningful change.
CJ Emeritus Maraga’s call to action serves as a powerful reminder of the critical role of data and evidence in driving effective human rights advocacy. His message, along with the insights shared by Prof. Kanyinga and other speakers, sets a hopeful tone for the week ahead, as stakeholders work collaboratively towards a more just and democratic Africa.
Benson Ngobia- Lecturer of Performing Arts, Film & Media Studies at KCA University and Executive Director of the Kenya International Theatre Festival and Kenya Theatre Awards.
By Benson Ngobia
In the evolving landscape of education, the integration of digital technologies has brought significant transformation, particularly in theatre education. Kenya has witnessed first hand how digital tools are reshaping teaching and learning in theatre. Digital technologies have not only revolutionized traditional teaching methods but also expanded the horizons of creativity and accessibility in theatre education.
Kenya is a pacesetter in technological innovation in Africa and is often referred to as the “Silicon Savannah.” According to the Communications Authority of Kenya, internet penetration in Kenya stands at over 90%, and the widespread use of mobile technology has provided a platform for creative entrepreneurs to reach global markets. Some of the notable ways that digital technology is revolutionizing theatre education include:
Enhancing Learning Through Digital Platforms
Digital learning platforms have become indispensable in modern theatre education. They offer a wide range of resources, from recorded performances to interactive tutorials, that enrich the learning experience. Digital platforms and specialized theatre education websites provide students with access to a global repository of knowledge and performances that were previously inaccessible. This democratization of information allows students to learn from the best in the industry while breaking geographical limitations.
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) in Theatre Training
One of the most exciting developments in theatre education is the use of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR). VR and AR offer immersive experiences that enhance learning by providing simulated environments where students can practice and hone their skills. With VR, one can recreate a theatre stage that would allow students to practice stage movements, blocking, and even lighting design in a controlled, risk-free environment.
AR, on the other hand, can overlay digital information onto the physical world, offering interactive learning experiences that deepen understanding and engagement in film and theatre.
Online Collaboration and Remote Learning
The rise of digital communication tools has made remote learning and collaboration more feasible than ever. Learners can now study without geographical limitations through platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet and a wide range of learning management systems. This has enhanced the convenience for theatre educators and students to connect and collaborate across distances. This has been particularly beneficial in fostering international collaborations, where students can work on projects with peers from different parts of the world, broadening their perspectives and enhancing their creative skills.
Digital Tools for Scriptwriting and Production
Digital technologies have transformed the scriptwriting and production process’ making them more efficient and effective. Tools such as Final Draft for scriptwriting, Celtx for pre-production planning, and editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro have streamlined the creative process. They not only make the production process more efficient but also allow for greater experimentation and innovation in visual storytelling.
E-learning and MOOCs for Theatre Education
Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) and e-learning platforms have made theatre education more accessible to a wider audience. With these platforms, learners enjoy self-paced learning and micro-credentialing, which allows them to acquire skills that align with their career aspirations in the creative industry. Institutions and universities now offer specialized online courses in theatre arts, which provide students with the flexibility to learn at their own pace. These courses often include video lectures, interactive assignments, and peer reviews, making high-quality theatre education available to anyone with internet connectivity.
Digital Archiving and Accessibility
With digital technologies, preserving and retrieving theatre performances and educational materials has become more efficient and reliable. Online repositories and digital libraries allow both students and educators to access historical performances, scripts, and critical analyses, providing valuable resources for research and study. This has significantly enhanced the depth and scope of materials available for theatre education.
While the integration of digital technologies in theatre education has brought about numerous benefits, it has its fair share of challenges including the digital divide, access to quality digital devices, and the need for technical training for both educators and students. Looking ahead, digital technologies are bound to be even more innovative and bring more sophistication to theatre education. As educators and practitioners, we have a responsibility to embrace these technological advancements and integrate them into our teaching methodologies to prepare generations of theatre artists who are adaptable and flexible.
Benson Ngobia is the Executive Director of the Kenya International Theatre Festival and Kenya Theatre Awards and a lecturer of Performing Arts, Film & Media Studies at KCA University
