EAST AFRICA TIMES

Reporting by James Mutua  Kenya’s trailblazing women in uniform were celebrated on Thursday at the “Staara ya Wazee” sporting event, where leaders and veterans alike paid tribute to their courage, sacrifice, and enduring legacy in shaping the country’s security forces. The ceremony, organized by the Ushiriki Wema Initiative at the Ulinzi Complex in Lang’ata, spotlighted the nation’s first generation of female soldiers and police officers, whose service in the early 1970's paved the way for thousands of women now serving across Kenya’s security institutions. Under the theme “Women in Security,” the event honoured these pioneers while calling for stronger welfare support and the passage of the Older Persons Bill to safeguard the rights and dignity of retired servicewomen. Representing former First Lady Mama Ngina Kenyatta, Kristina Pratt recalled how a private conversation more than five decades ago opened the door for women’s enlistment into the army and police in 1971. “You are the...

By Cynthia Masibo From left: David Kiarie (Head of Department), Ann Kamau (Supervisor), Zelipher Wairimu (Sales Administration Manager), Raphael Mwanzia (Merchandising Head), and Jared Oundo, Secretary General of the United SMEs Association, who presented the award. The Elite Brand Awards International, one of Africa’s most prestigious recognition platforms, is scheduled to take place on 10th December 2025 at Nairobi, Kenya, spotlighting Kenyan companies among the continent's most influential brands. This annual event, organized by the nonprofit Jubilant Stewards of Africa, honors outstanding organizations and individuals from across Africa for excellence that goes beyond commercial success to include innovation, ethical leadership, quality, and social impact. This year’s ceremony is expected to bring together over 100 companies representing 18 African countries, underscoring Kenya’s leadership role within the regional economy. Participating firms come from diverse sectors includin...

 By Joseph Mwangi  The Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) Murang’a Region is reeling from a massive corruption scandal, with Regional Director Eng. Joseph Wanjohi standing as the main subject of an investigation into systemic abuse of office and criminal diversion of public funds. Under Eng. Wanjohi's alleged watch, the public agency tasked with improving Murang’a's vital rural infrastructure is accused of becoming a cash cow for political ambition, all while the state’s Principal Secretary for Roads allegedly provides bureaucratic cover. At the heart of this intricate web of deceit is Hon. Elizabeth Mbugua, the Kinyona Ward MCA, widely known as Liz. Sources within the county have disclosed that Wanjohi's office has become the operational base for a shocking “sex-for-contracts” scheme, where Liz is a key beneficiary. The serious allegation is that Liz has been consistently awarded road construction contracts through illicit arrangements, securing government tenders not thr...

Reporting by Grace Mwende  Cyber Week Africa 2025 officially opened in Nairobi today, marking the start of a high-level continental dialogue on strengthening Africa’s digital resilience under the theme “Compliance by Design: Securing Africa’s Digital Future.” The landmark event brings together leaders from government, academia, and the private sector to chart a path toward a safer and more innovative digital ecosystem for the continent. Hosted by the Kenya School of Government (KSG) in partnership with the Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy (MOICDE) , the National Computer and Cybercrimes Coordination Committee (NC4) , CyberPro Global , and Huawei , the conference emphasizes the growing importance of collaboration in combating cyber threats. Speaking during the opening ceremony, Cabinet Secretary for ICT, Hon. William Kabogo Gitau , said cybersecurity now forms a critical part of Kenya’s national development agenda. “The theme ‘Compliance by Desig...

Reporting by Jameson Mutua  Nairobi, October 24, 2025 — Kenya’s Human Resource profession reached a historic milestone on Friday as the Human Resource Management Professionals Examination Board (HRMPEB) certified its largest cohort to date, 1,130 new Certified Human Resource Professionals (CHRPs). The landmark event, held at Jamhuri Park along Ngong Road, was not only a celebration of academic achievement but also a powerful testament to dedication, resilience, and professional excellence. Speaking during the ceremony, officials emphasized that the certification marks more than just numbers; it symbolizes the growth of a profession that sits at the heart of organizational transformation. Each newly certified professional, they noted, represents countless hours of study, personal sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to advancing people management in Kenya. This year’s cohort represents a significant increase from 708 graduates in 2024, underscoring the rising confidence in the CH...

Reporting by James Mutua  Building in Kenya has become easier, faster, and more transparent following the launch of the Jumba App, a digital platform designed to simplify construction sourcing by connecting builders directly with verified suppliers. Unveiled today by Jumba, Africa’s largest digital marketplace for construction materials, the app aims to address long-standing challenges in the sector, including inconsistent pricing, unreliable suppliers, and delayed deliveries. Speaking during the launch event at a Nairobi, hotel on Tuesday, Jumba CEO and Co-Founder Kagure Wamunyu said the platform was built to make the construction process simpler and more efficient for everyone, from developers and contractors to individual homeowners. “Our mission is simple: to make building easy,” said Wamunyu. “Whether you’re managing multiple projects, building your first home, or constructing from abroad, Jumba gives you confidence that what you order is what you get, on time and at the righ...

Reporting by James Mutua  The Action Foundation (TAF), in partnership with national and county governments, has launched a landmark initiative aimed at transforming how Kenya supports young children with disabilities. The Disability Inclusive Early Childhood Development (DIECD) Project, unveiled in Nairobi on Thursday, will run from 2025 to 2030 and is expected to reach more than 1.3 million children aged 0 to 8 years and their caregivers. The six-year program will be implemented in seven counties: Nairobi, Kajiado, Machakos, Murang'a, Siaya, Kilifi, and Samburu, with the goal of improving access to health, nutrition, education, and protection services for children with disabilities. The initiative also aims to empower caregivers, most of whom are women, through training and support to enhance their capacity to provide nurturing care and live with dignity. “This is the stage where systems change begins to take shape in communities, classrooms, and health facilities,” said Maria Oma...

 By Elijah Odanga  Wiper Party leader Dr. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka has officially declared his candidacy for the 2027 presidential election, pledging to restore “hope, stability, and dignity” to Kenya after what he termed as years of economic hardship, corruption, and leadership failure under the Kenya Kwanza administration. Addressing thousands of delegates at Uhuru Park during the Wiper Patriotic Front (WPF) National Delegates Conference, Dr. Musyoka accepted the party’s nomination with what he described as a “deep sense of duty and high resolve,” calling for a revolution of hope to rebuild the nation.  “I accept your nomination to be your presidential candidate for the 2027 General Election. I accept it with a full and grateful heart — and with only one obligation — to devote every effort of body, mind and spirit to lead this exceptional Patriotic Front to victory and restore hope and stability to our beloved Nation,” he declared. In a speech laced with emotional appeal...

Reporting by James Mutua  Kibwezi West parliamentary aspirant Urbanus Wambua , popularly known as Kana , has declared firm support for Wiper Party Leader Dr. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka’s 2027 presidential bid. Speaking on the sidelines of the Wiper Patriotic Front (WPF) National Delegates Conference held at Uhuru Park in Nairobi, Kana said the event marked a historic step toward consolidating the opposition under a single presidential candidate. “We have officially endorsed Dr. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka as our presidential candidate come 2027. Today, we have launched his bid, and he remains the face of the opposition moving forward,” Wambua said. He commended former Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i , Eugene Wamalwa , Martha Karua , and former National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi for rallying behind Kalonzo’s candidacy, noting that their unity signaled a strong and organized opposition. “Dr. Matiang’i, together with other opposition leaders, has made it clear that Kalonz...

 By Jameson Mutua  A student from Mukuru Promotion Center undergoes an eye examination during a medical camp. New research findings show that kenya can gain significant economic benefits by investing in comprehensive eye health programs To mark World Sight Day, new world first research reveals that implementing six simple, cost effective eye health interventions such as eye tests in schools and on the spot distribution of reading glasses could unlock an annual KSh 33 billion boost for Kenya’s economy, delivering a KSh 1,300 return for every KSh 130 invested. The global Value of Vision report, produced by the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), Seva Foundation and The Fred Hollows Foundation, was launched during the United Nations General Assembly at a high level meeting hosted by IAPB and the United Nations Friends of Vision Group. As part of World Sight Day celebrations, the IAPB’s “Love Your Eyes” campaign released exclusive national data highlightin...

 Reporting by Jameson Mutua  Dr. Victor Opiyo and content creator Denis Somba during an interview in Mombasa. When Denis Somba, a content creator and agronomist from Mshomoroni, Mombasa, began noticing flashing lights and severe eye strain last year, he thought it was a minor issue that could be fixed with new spectacles. Within months, his vision deteriorated drastically, leaving him partially blind in one eye — a terrifying ordeal that would change his life. After visiting several optical outlets without a clear diagnosis, Denis was finally referred to an ophthalmologist who confirmed that he had suffered a retinal detachment in his left eye — a serious condition that can cause permanent blindness if not treated promptly. “The doctor told me if I didn’t undergo surgery immediately, I would lose my sight permanently,” Denis recalls. “It was terrifying, but I was lucky to have supportive family and doctors who acted fast.” He underwent corrective surgery earlier this year, and...

By East Africa Times Reporter  The United Progressive Alliance (UPA) party, led by former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, is coming under increasing criticism for what opponents and civil society groups describe as a worrying drift into tribal politics. Despite branding itself as a national movement committed to unity and reform, UPA has faced accusations of disproportionately favoring certain ethnic blocs in its leadership structure, candidate endorsements, and grassroots mobilization. Political analysts say the party’s public rallies have consistently been dominated by ethnic rhetoric, raising fears of deepening divisions ahead of the 2027 elections. “UPA has failed to rise above tribal calculations,” noted Dr. Peter Langat, a Nairobi-based political scientist. “Instead of presenting a unifying agenda, it appears to be building its base by leaning on ethnic loyalties.” Critics further argue that Matiang’i, while positioning himself as a reformist, has surrounded him...

By James Mutua  Kenya observed the International Day of Older Persons on October 1, 2025, with a focus on the growing concerns over elderly care and dementia. Community leaders and healthcare advocates emphasized the need for improved support systems, particularly for Congolese migrants struggling with dementia. Elijah Mwenga, a local advocate, highlighted the urgent need for dementia awareness, revealing that many Congolese individuals suffering from the disease often find themselves lost and vulnerable. He emphasized the lack of rescue centers and adequate support systems, stating, “In our office, we frequently encounter Congolese who have lost their way due to dementia.” Mwenga also pointed out the necessity for educational programs to empower the elderly in navigating modern technology, addressing financial exploitation risks. Stanly Kamau, another community leader, urged younger generations to support their elders, many of whom are raising grandchildren. He expressed alarm ove...