Kenya News updates

(photo caption )KCDF Executive Director Grace Maingi The Kenya Community Development Foundation (KCDF) has awarded KSh31.5 million to seven youth-led enterprises and community organisations developing innovative solutions to Kenya's environmental challenges, marking the culmination of the third edition of the Young Environmentalist Innovation Challenge (YEIC).  The seven winning projects were selected from more than 700 applications submitted nationwide following a rigorous evaluation process that assessed innovation, impact, sustainability and scalability. The supported initiatives focus on waste management, clean energy, sustainable agriculture, water access, affordable housing and circular economy solutions.   Speaking during the awards ceremony, KCDF Executive Director Grace Maingi praised the creativity and determination of Kenya's young innovators, saying their ideas are being transformed into practical enterprises tackling waste, energy, agriculture and...

Principal Secretary for Higher Education and Research Dr. Beatrice Inyangala has said the East African Community (EAC) is making significant progress towards establishing a Common Higher Education Area that will allow students and professionals to study, work and have their academic qualifications recognized across the region. Speaking during the 17th Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA) Annual Conference and Annual Meeting in Nairobi, Dr. Inyangala said the initiative is aimed at strengthening regional integration through harmonized higher education systems that create more opportunities for learners and graduates. She said the conference, held under the theme "Empowering Education Through Partnerships," has brought together vice chancellors, principal and permanent secretaries, government officials and development partners from across the region to deepen collaboration in advancing higher education. "We are demonstrating our commitment to the in...

 Kisumu County is among ten counties selected to implement the Integrated Natural Resources Management Programme (INReMP), a KSh34 billion initiative jointly funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development and the Government of Kenya to enhance climate resilience and improve livelihoods. Speaking after a meeting with INReMP officials, Kisumu Deputy Governor Matthew Owili said the programme will strengthen the county's efforts to promote sustainable natural resource management while supporting climate-smart agricultural development. Owili noted that INReMP will be implemented in Kisumu through the Department of Agriculture in close collaboration with the Department of Environment and Climate Change, reflecting the county's commitment to protecting critical water catchment areas while creating economic opportunities for local communities. Earlier in the day, the Deputy Governor, alongside Kisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong'o, held discussi...

Nairobi School Board of Management Infrastructure Committee Chairperson Rose Wanja has praised parents, alumni, donors and well-wishers for raising KSh 2,576,070 in just 28 minutes during the school's Annual General Meeting (AGM), ensuring that financially challenged students can continue with their education. Speaking at the AGM, Wanja said the fundraising exercise demonstrated the Nairobi School community's commitment to ensuring that no deserving student is denied access to education because of financial hardship. She disclosed that the school had a fee deficit of KSh 1,909,870 for needy students, but the generosity of parents and supporters not only met the target but exceeded it, offering renewed hope to vulnerable learners. Wanja noted that the successful fundraiser also saw 23 students receive full sponsorships through the school's student adoption programme, enabling them to complete their education without interruption. She also commended mo...

Stakeholders have hailed significant progress in promoting freedom of religion or belief, strengthening community-security relations and advancing human rights following the implementation of the Together for Freedom of Religion or Belief (ToFoRB) Project in Garissa, Lamu and Tana River counties. Speaking during the National Learning and Policy Dialogue Forum in Nairobi, Kenya Community Support Centre (KECOSCE) Executive Director Phyllis Muema said the two-year programme had strengthened partnerships between government agencies, civil society organisations, faith leaders and local communities, helping build resilience against conflict and violent extremism. Muema said the initiative focused on protecting freedom of religion or belief, a fundamental right guaranteed under Kenya's Constitution, while ensuring that security operations, particularly counter-terrorism efforts, respect human rights and religious freedoms. She noted that the project enhanced the capacity of co...

 Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) Commissioner Dr. Annette Mbogoh has underscored the importance of police accountability, human rights and multi-stakeholder collaboration in fostering public trust and promoting peaceful coexistence across the country. Dr. Mbogoh spoke during the National Learning and Policy Dialogue Forum on the Together for Freedom of Religion or Belief (ToFoRB) Project held at the Argyle Grand Hotel in Nairobi, where she represented IPOA Vice Chairperson Anne Wanjiku and delivered the keynote address before participating in a panel discussion. The forum brought together key stakeholders from government institutions, civil society organizations, faith-based groups and community representatives to deliberate on strategies for advancing freedom of religion or belief, social cohesion and human rights. Among the participating organizations were Search for Common Ground, Kenya Community Support Centre (KECOSCE), Muslims for Human Rights (MUH...

 The Government has called on development partners, the private sector, county governments and local communities to increase investments in Kenya's forestry sector to accelerate the restoration of 10.6 million hectares of degraded land and strengthen the country's resilience to climate change. Speaking during a donors' round-table breakfast meeting in Nairobi, Forestry Principal Secretary Gitonga Mugambi said restoring Kenya's degraded landscapes requires strong partnerships, noting that the government cannot achieve its ambitious environmental targets alone. The meeting, organised by the State Department for Forestry in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), brought together development partners, government officials and key stakeholders to explore strategic investment opportunities in the forestry sector. Mugambi said Kenya's arid and semi-arid lands account for nearly 89 per cent of the country's landmass and present...

Kisumu Deputy Governor Dr. Matthew Owili has reaffirmed the county government's commitment to strengthening healthcare services following the official launch and commissioning of the Africa Cancer Foundation (ACF) Clinic on Wheels at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH). The Deputy Governor joined Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang' Nyong'o at the launch of the mobile clinic, describing the initiative as a major milestone in expanding access to cancer prevention, early detection, screening and treatment services for residents of Kisumu, Siaya and neighbouring counties. Dr. Owili noted that the mobile clinic will help bridge healthcare gaps by bringing essential cancer services closer to communities, improving early diagnosis and increasing access to life-saving treatment. The event was attended by Mama Kisumu, Mrs. Dorothy Nyong'o, National Cancer Control Program representative Dr. J.P. Bor, JOOTRH Chief Executive Officer Dr. Joshua O...

Rose Wanja is celebrating a proud and memorable milestone after her daughter, Alyssa, secured a United Kingdom visa that will enable her to represent Kenya at the prestigious TeenEagle English Competition Global Finals. The visa approval marks the beginning of an exciting international journey for Alyssa, who will join outstanding students from around the world to compete in one of the world's leading English language and public speaking competitions. Filled with gratitude, Wanja described the achievement as an answered prayer and a testament to God's faithfulness. She said seeing her daughter earn the opportunity to compete on the global stage is a dream come true and a reward for years of hard work, perseverance and dedication. Reflecting on her own life experiences, Wanja said she has always prayed that her children would enjoy opportunities she never had. She believes Alyssa's accomplishment demonstrates that determination, discipline and faith can open door...

 Rose Wanja could not hide her excitement after her daughter, Alyssa, received the life-changing news that her United Kingdom visa had been approved. The visa approval paves the way for Alyssa to travel to the United Kingdom, where she will proudly represent Kenya at the prestigious TeenEagle English Competition Global Finals, an international contest that brings together top-performing students from across the world. Sharing her joy, Wanja described the moment as the fulfillment of a long-held prayer and a testament to God's faithfulness. She reflected on the challenges she faced growing up and said she had always prayed that her children would enjoy opportunities she never had. She also expressed gratitude to Riara Springs Girls' High School for believing in Alyssa and giving her the opportunity to compete on the global stage. Alyssa heads into the competition with an outstanding record, having previously been recognized as the fourth-best debater in Africa. Wanja...

Yatta Member of Parliament Robert Basil has welcomed the official commissioning of the Kithimani Land Registry, describing it as a historic milestone that will transform access to land services for residents across the constituency. Speaking during the launch officiated by Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki, Basil said the new land registry marks the end of years of inconvenience that forced Yatta residents to travel to Machakos to access land-related services. He noted that bringing the registry closer to the people will save residents time and money while improving the efficiency of government service delivery. The event also saw the issuance of more than 1,000 title deeds to residents, a move Basil said will provide families with secure land ownership, enhance property rights, and unlock economic opportunities through increased investment and access to credit. The legislator described the project as a clear demonstration of the government's commitment...

 Global technology company Zoho has announced a strategic partnership with the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry to accelerate digital transformation and strengthen the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Kenya. The partnership was unveiled during Zoholics Kenya 2026, Zoho's annual user conference, and is aimed at expanding access to digital business solutions, enhancing technology adoption, and equipping entrepreneurs with the skills needed to compete in an increasingly digital economy. Speaking during the announcement, Premanand Velumani, Associate Director for Strategic Growth at Zoho MEA, said the collaboration reflects the company's long-term commitment to supporting Kenya's business ecosystem through innovation, technology enablement, and accessible digital solutions. He noted that the partnership will help empower SMEs by expanding access to technology, strengthening digital capabilities, and lowering barri...

The Chief Executive Officer of the Nairobi Rivers Commission, Brigadier (Rtd.) Joseph Maina Muracia, has outlined the commission's progress in restoring Nairobi's rivers, saying the initiative is transforming the capital's waterways into clean, safe and attractive public spaces while protecting the environment for future generations. Speaking during an interview, Muracia said the Nairobi Rivers Commission was established in December 2022 and renewed in October 2024 with the mandate of coordinating the regeneration, restoration and beautification of Nairobi's rivers. He explained that the commission operates under the State Department for Housing and Urban Development and is responsible for coordinating ministries, departments, agencies, county governments, communities, development partners and the media in implementing the Nairobi Rivers Regeneration Programme. Muracia noted that the commission's work covers the Nairobi, Ngong and Mathare rivers, which e...

The Conservator of Forests, Mr. Alex Lemarkoko, has underscored the importance of community participation, strong leadership and increased investment in forestry as Kenya works towards achieving its target of 30 percent national tree cover. Speaking during an event, Lemarkoko said forestry has become increasingly central to Kenya's development agenda, noting that sustainable forest management plays a vital role in environmental conservation, climate resilience and economic growth. He said the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has witnessed significant success where community leaders and other stakeholders have taken an active role in implementing Participatory Forest Management Plans (PFMPs). According to him, empowering local leadership has strengthened community ownership of conservation initiatives and improved forest protection efforts. Lemarkoko emphasized the need to integrate forestry with other sectors such as agriculture and livestock production, saying sustainable fo...

The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has officially launched the GreenZones Development Support Project II Resource Centre, a KSh75 million facility funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB), in a major step towards strengthening forest conservation and sustainable environmental management in Kenya. The facility was officially opened by the Conservator of Forests, Mr. Alex Lemarkoko, who said the new resource centre will enhance conservation efforts, build community capacity, and support environmental education. Speaking during the event, Mr. Lemarkoko noted that KFS has continued to recruit foresters to strengthen its conservation mandate while working closely with local communities, women groups, and tree nursery operators. He said the Service procures tree seedlings from community groups, creating income-generating opportunities while promoting the country's tree-growing campaign. The Conservator pledged that KFS would continue working closely with faith-ba...

The Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing inclusive education following the successful conclusion of a two-day workshop for Regional and County Directors of Education on Assistive Devices in Special Needs Education. The second and final day of the workshop focused on strengthening collaboration among education stakeholders and improving support for learners with special needs and disabilities across the country. During the session, Deputy Director of Finance and Administration (DDFA), Mr. Antony Mwangi, outlined the phased distribution of assistive devices to schools and learning institutions. He noted that teachers, education officers, and other users will receive comprehensive training on the proper use and maintenance of the devices to ensure they effectively meet learners' needs. Mr. Mwangi also revealed that wheelchairs will be adapted to suit Kenya's diverse local terrains, improving mobility and accessibility f...

Bomet County Woman Representative Linet Toto has reaffirmed her commitment to empowering farmers after presenting a cheque to the Chebango Coffee Cooperative Society in Kipsonoi Ward, Sotik Sub-County, to support the cooperative's development initiatives. Speaking during the event, Toto said empowering farmers remains one of her key priorities, noting that strengthening agricultural cooperatives is essential for improving household incomes and driving economic growth in rural communities. She said the financial support will help enhance the cooperative's operations, increase productivity, and create greater opportunities for coffee farmers in the area. The Woman Representative emphasized that well-supported cooperatives play a vital role in improving market access, promoting value addition, and ensuring farmers receive better returns for their produce. She also encouraged members of the cooperative to continue working together to build a strong and susta...

The Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing inclusive education by urging Regional and County Directors of Education to strengthen collaboration in supporting learners with disabilities across the country. Speaking during the opening of a two-day forum on Assistive Devices in Special Needs Education, KISE Director Dr. Norman Kiogora emphasized the need for closer cooperation between the Institute and education leaders to identify learners with disabilities early, facilitate smooth transitions in their education, and ensure they receive appropriate assistive devices tailored to their individual learning needs. Dr. Kiogora noted that access to suitable assistive technologies is essential in enabling learners with disabilities to fully participate in the education system and achieve their academic potential. The Principal Secretary for Basic Education, through a speech delivered by Mr. Nelson Sifuna, Head of the Directorate of Fie...

The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has taken another step in strengthening regional political cooperation following high-level discussions with South Sudan President H.E. Salva Kiir Mayardit during a mission to Juba.  UDA Organizing Secretary General Vincent Musyoka, said the delegation held fruitful talks aimed at enhancing cooperation between Kenya's ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and South Sudan's ruling Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM). Kawaya noted that the discussions focused on building stronger party-to-party relations, promoting the exchange of governance experiences, and deepening collaboration on issues that advance regional peace, stability, and economic development. He emphasized that closer cooperation between the two ruling parties will strengthen the longstanding friendship between Kenya and South Sudan while creating opportunities for greater political engagement and shared development initiatives. The...

The Government has defended Kenya's international reputation while highlighting key economic and development achievements, urging Kenyans to promote national unity and safeguard the country's image. Speaking during a press briefing at Harambee Annex on Monday, Government Spokesperson Dr. Isaac Mwaura said Kenya remains a safe, stable and attractive destination for tourism, investment and business despite attempts by some leaders and online personalities to portray the country negatively. Mwaura termed calls discouraging tourists from visiting Kenya as economic sabotage, noting that the tourism sector continues to record strong growth. He revealed that international arrivals have risen from approximately 1.48 million to 2.2 million visitors, while domestic tourism has reached 5.2 million travelers, bringing the total number of tourists to about 7.5 million. The spokesperson also called for national unity, emphasizing that the Kenya Kwanza administration is implementi...