Crazy Kennar and his partner Natalie Asewe have stepped into a new chapter with the birth of their baby.

Some professions are not just jobs—they're running jokes, cautionary tales, and memes waiting to happen.

Ask any Nairobian about their worst mechanic experience, and you’ll get a dramatic saga involving vanishing parts, invented problems, and WhatsApp blue ticks.

Mention a carpenter, and someone will recall a cabinet that took six months for the clear varnish paint to dry.

Here are five professions that spark both respect and eye-rolls, peeling back the layers of mischief and missed deadlines.

Car problems can be stressful, and for many Kenyans, a visit to the mechanic feels like walking into a real-life episode of Ripoff Kenya.

Mechanics have gained a notorious reputation for turning minor issues into major repairs—and for inventing parts you've never heard of.

If your engine light blinks, you’ll hear diagnoses like “Injector imechapa” or “Gearbox imeharibika kabisa,” often accompanied by a quote that triples your budget.

One common trick involves exaggerating problems, sourcing counterfeit parts at cheaper rates, and charging the client for expensive originals.

Sometimes, parts that didn't need replacing are replaced anyway—and you may not know the difference until it’s too late.

2. Fundis & carpenters – The great disappearing act

Fundis—especially carpenters and masons—are the true magicians of Kenyan labour. They can turn timber and nails into a palace... if they ever show up.

It’s a common Kenyan experience to have a fundi who vanishes after taking your deposit, claiming niko site or tools zilibaki kwa ile site ingine.

That kitchen cabinet you paid for last month? Still “drying.” That custom sofa? “Next week iko ready,”—every week.

The issue lies partly in overbooking. Fundis juggle multiple clients, often taking on more than they can handle to maximise earnings.

Add to this a culture where clients don’t sign contracts or demand timelines, and it’s the perfect breeding ground for delays and excuses.

And yet, Kenyans continue to engage them because the good ones—though rare—deliver high-quality work at affordable prices.

Social media has become a platform for both exposing rogue fundis and celebrating reliable ones, giving rise to more accountability through public pressure.

3. Plumbers – Pipe dreams and pipe leaks

Plumbers are the emergency service you wish you didn’t need. From leaking taps to burst pipes and blocked toilets, their work is essential—but their punctuality and pricing? Questionable.

A classic Nairobi plumber might say “Nimefika tao nakuja” and then show up two days later. In worse scenarios, the plumber ‘fixes’ the leak only for it to spring back twice as bad.

Some plumbers are also accused of creating future work for themselves. It’s not uncommon to hear that they intentionally do half-jobs or use cheap materials so that you’ll have to call them again—another payday.

Others inflate prices on parts or charge for full-day work even when they only spend a few hours on site.

4. Electricians – The live wire conmen

Electricians often hold the literal power to your house in their hands, yet many are known more for their shortcuts than their skill.

A common complaint among Kenyans is overcharging, especially when clients don’t understand what parts or tools are actually needed.

Some electricians exploit this gap by replacing functional parts, charging for work not done, or using counterfeit materials that pose serious fire risks later on.

It gets worse. There are horror stories of electricians who miswire entire buildings, causing appliances to short-circuit.

The irony is that most clients don’t know anything is wrong until a fuse blows or a socket sparks. Even then, the same electrician is often called back, continuing the cycle.

5. Tailors – The lords of last minute lies

"Kesho saa tano unavaa." This is arguably the most repeated lie in Kenya’s fashion industry. Tailors, especially around big events like weddings, graduations, and elections, are infamous for missed deadlines and half-done work.

The dread begins when they stop picking your calls and ends when you show up and find your fabric untouched.

The problem often stems from over-promising. Tailors fear losing clients, so they accept multiple orders without capacity to deliver on time.

Add in equipment breakdowns, electricity issues, or simply poor time management, and the result is tears and unmet expectations.

Many clients now rely on referrals or social media reviews, and some tailors have begun using digital platforms to build credibility.

But the reputation persists. Even the best tailors know to pad their delivery promises with extra days because—well—life happens.

But when they get it right? That tailored outfit becomes a masterpiece, a reminder that among the lies and delays, there is also talent worth waiting for.

He was allegedly caught in a compromising position in a hotel room with a female employee by none other than her husband, Duncan Mwangi.

Mwangi, who had long suspected an affair, reportedly stormed the premises after receiving a tip-off and found Ng’ang’a and the woman, Emmaculate Mueni, together. Mueni works at the company as a customer care officer. The two have allegedly had an affair for years.

On the fateful day, police officers from Free Area Police Post went to the rescue of the MD and the woman and placed them in the cells at around 2326 hours. They were locked at the police post until morning, when they were released.

The woman’s husband said he had filed a complaint at the police post and was booked under OB No 15/17/4/2025. He stated that a man was having an affair with his wife. He informed the police where the two were and went with them.

The aggrieved husband said he had harboured suspicions since 2013, having observed unusual call logs and late-night communications between his wife and the MD, sometimes as late as midnight or even 4am.

“I questioned her, but she denied everything,” Mwangi said.

He said that Mueni had always suspected how he got the information about her whereabouts until she realised her car had a tracker and went ahead to have it removed.

Despite these concerns, the couple went ahead with their wedding in 2015, though their relationship dates back to the early 2000s.

Mwangi claimed that after he confronted his wife, the phone calls ceased, only for the alleged affair to continue via WhatsApp and other social media platforms. He further alleged the messages were regularly deleted to avoid detection.

Mwangi also alleged that Mueni was the reason the MD divorced his wife before remarrying.

“After his divorce, the relationship between him and my wife intensified. He even rented a house in Naka where they would meet during the day,” he said, adding that the one-bedroom flat contained only a bed.

He further claimed that Mueni benefitted professionally from the relationship. According to Mwangi, she had previously been dismissed by a former MD after taking an unauthorised trip to Uganda in 2013. However, upon Ng’ang’a’s appointment, she was reinstated.

“When he became MD, his first directive was to bring her back to the customer care desk at the main office, close to his own,” Mwangi alleged.

“All this time, as a reward for the relationship, Mueni was being selected to join all the committees so that she could earn allowances. She would represent the company in external meetings, including technical ones. Her salary was increased as part of the reward. She even got a Sh40,000 salary increment," he added.  

Ng’ang’a, he said, would even authorise Mueni to sign crucial documents, as she had access to his electronic signature.

In one of the instances, on August 10, 2022, while seeking a visa to Denmark and while at the Denmark Embassy, Mwangi said Mueni noted that one of the documents required the MD's signature. She signed the document, having sought approval from the MD.

The trip, however, failed as the MD did not pay for the flight as they were not in good terms. 

After the trip failed, she went to Germany in 2024. This was for a technical meeting funded by the company. She stayed there for a week.

In March 2024, tensions reportedly rose when Mueni sent a WhatsApp message to the MD complaining of his alleged infidelity. She referred to him as “TB” (to be).

“When I got the message, I called the MD’s wife and told her to speak to him to stop the relationship with my wife. They met at the MD’s place on Saturday, March 16, 2024. Instead of resolving the issue, they planned to fix me up and reported it to the police. They said that I was planning to kill Ng’ang’a,” he said.

The complaint was lodged at Nakuru Central Police Station on March 18, 2024. Mwangi was arrested on March 21 and detained, allegedly as part of a ploy to keep him behind bars over the weekend. He was released a day later.

Mwangi alleged the MD had vowed to “teach him a lesson” and claimed that he (Ng’ang’a) considered himself Mueni’s husband. The case was later withdrawn.

In January 2025, Mueni, who was then on leave, was expected to resume duty on February 3. However, Mwangi claimed that on January 29, she attended a company party at Club 18, a venue owned by Ng’ang’a.

After the party, he said, Mueni returned to the club around 9pm and stayed until past midnight. Ng’ang’a’s driver was reportedly asked to leave so that Mueni could drop him home. They allegedly spent the night at Ng’ang’a’s residence in the Blankets area.

Mueni, for her part, stated she was no longer living with Mwangi and had rented her own house. She accused her estranged husband of persistent abuse, alleging that she had reported him to several police stations, but no action had been taken.

In March this year, Mueni said Mwangi assaulted her, pulling her hair so violently that one side of her head was left bald. She filed a report at Mwariki Police Station.

She added that another complaint had been made at Nakuru Police Station in April 2024. According to Mueni, her father was also assaulted by Mwangi in 2019. “What kind of man beats his father-in-law?” she asked.

She further accused Mwangi of serial infidelity and shared photographs she said were evidence of his affairs.

“Why is he still following me if we no longer live together? I am in my own space. If I were to follow him, I would uncover much worse stuff,” she said.

Mueni recounted an incident in which Mwangi abandoned her at a salon in Nairobi, claiming he was headed to a business meeting in Kajiado.

The man, she said, later informed her that he was somewhere near Naivasha and asked her to board a matatu. She said she called her best friend who confirmed to her that they were in Naivasha. 

“I took a taxi, went to one of the camps and saw my husband’s car, called him and told him I was about to leave Nairobi. He told me they were still visiting several parcels of land; I alighted from the taxi, went to where he was and said hi. He got mad while I asked him whether the place was Kajiado and whether he was inspecting the land parcels he told me about on the phone,” she said.

She claimed she found a lady’s clothes in the car. The woman later became pregnant and gave birth, but Mwangi allegedly denied paternity.

“When I finally decided to walk away from the marriage, he tried to paint me as the villain,” Mueni said.

She confirmed she was filing for divorce and had no intention of reconciling with the man she had been with since 2002 and married in 2015.

Life as a student in Kenya today isn’t easy. Between paying for meals, transport, data bundles, and the occasional group project, your allowance often disappears before mid-month. But what if you could earn something extra on the side — without needing a big investment or interfering with your studies?

That’s where side hustles come in. Side hustles help you gain experience, learn financial discipline, and even create a path to becoming self-employed in the future. Whether you’re in university, KMTC, college, or even high school — here are some of the best legit side hustles for students in Kenya in 2025.

1. Freelancing Online

Freelancing is one of the most flexible and profitable side hustles available. It allows you to work from anywhere — your hostel, a cyber café, or even under a tree with a good hotspot.

You can offer services like:
- Academic writing
- Blogging and article writing
- Transcription and captioning
- Graphic design
- Web development and programming

There are thousands of clients looking for such services online. You can register on platforms like:
- Fiverr.com
- Upwork.com
- PeoplePerHour.com
- TranscribeMe

Pro tip: Build your portfolio using free jobs, then start charging clients as you build reputation and reviews.

2. Reselling & Campus Business

Selling products to fellow students is another easy way to earn. Since you live and interact with your target market daily, you already understand their needs.

Items you can sell include:
- Phone accessories (chargers, power banks, earphones)
- Perfumes and body sprays
- Second-hand clothes (mitumba)
- Snacks like mandazi, crisps, boiled eggs, smokies
- Stationery and exam past papers

Buy from local markets, wholesalers, or use apps like Jumia and Kilimall. Some students even use Facebook Marketplace to find cheap stock.

3. Content Creation (TikTok, YouTube, Instagram)

Are you funny, smart, or creative? Start a TikTok or YouTube channel and post content that other students can relate to. Ideas include:
- Campus life skits
- Motivational content
- Study tips
- Budget cooking hacks
- Funny videos or interviews

Once you grow your audience, you can earn money through:
- Brand sponsorships
- Affiliate marketing
- YouTube ads (after hitting 1,000 subs and 4,000 watch hours)

Use your smartphone to start. You don’t need expensive equipment — just good ideas and consistency.

4. Social Media Management

Most businesses in Kenya are going online, but they don’t understand how social media works. That’s where you come in.

As a student, you likely spend a lot of time on TikTok, Twitter, or Instagram. Why not use that knowledge to help others?

Offer to manage a small business's page — post their content, engage with customers, and grow their followers. You can charge Ksh 500 to Ksh 2,000 per month per page depending on what you offer.

5. Assignment Typing & Printing

If you have a laptop or access to a cyber café, you can make money by typing and formatting assignments, CVs, or business documents.

You can also do:
- PowerPoint slides
- Cover letters
- Certificates and poster design

Even if you don’t own a printer, you can outsource printing and still earn a profit margin.

Print past papers and notes, then sell copies to students.

6. Affiliate Marketing & Referrals

With affiliate marketing, you promote products using a link — and earn a commission when someone buys.

You can join:
- Jumia affiliate program – earn Ksh 100–1,000 per sale
- Betting affiliate programs – get paid per sign-up
- App referrals like HustleSasa, Zenka, Branch, Tala

Post your affiliate links on WhatsApp status, Facebook groups, or inside your blog or website.

7. Tutoring or Academic Coaching

If you’re good in a particular subject like Math, English, Kiswahili, or Sciences — offer tuition to first-year students or even high school kids near your campus.

You can teach online via Zoom/Google Meet or do physical tutoring over weekends.

You can also create simple revision guides and sell them digitally.

Bonus Hustle: Sell Digital Products

Use your skills to create:
- Study notes or summaries
- Simple posters
- Motivational PDFs
- “How to…” eBooks

Package your digital product, post it online, and receive payments via M-Pesa.

Even an eBook like “How to Save on a Student Budget” can sell for Ksh 100–300 each.

Final Thoughts

In 2025, you don’t need a rich sponsor or a “big job” to make money. You just need a little creativity, discipline, and consistency. Most of these side hustles require zero or very little capital — but they can grow into full businesses with time.

As you start your hustle:
- Stay consistent
- Use social media to market your services
- Manage your time wisely (don't neglect your studies)
- Save and reinvest your profits

Start small, think big — and never underestimate a hustle that earns you even Ksh 50 a day. That’s Ksh 1,500 a month — enough to sort your bundles or even print notes.

What’s Your Side Hustle?

Have you tried any of these? Do you have your own hustle story? Share it in the comments or DM us on Instagram — we might just feature you in our next article.

In a ruling on January 24, 2025, the High Court cleared the way for the IEBC Selection panel list to be forwarded to President William Ruto for appointment.

Petitioner Boniface Njogu had argued that the panel lacked adequate representation of Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs) when he challenged its constitution in a petition last year.

Following the petition, a ruling by Judge Dola Chepkwony in October 2024 temporarily halted the process of forwarding the names of the selection panel members to the President until the matter was heard and determined.

However, Justice Chepkwony on Friday ruled that there is no evidence to show that PWDs were excluded or that the panel failed to meet gender and regional balance requirements.

The judge also rejected a petition challenging Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya Coalition’s nomination process, noting that the claim that the coalition failed to conduct a competitive and open recruitment exercise could not be substantiated.

According to Justice Chepkowny, Azimio was not formally enjoined in the case as a party.

Court Clears IEBC Selection Panel for Submission to Ruto

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In a statement, Kenya Railways explained that their technical team is actively working to resolve the problem.

“Our technical team is addressing the issue and we anticipate normalcy will be restored as soon as possible,” read part of the notice.

Kenya Railways Announce Disruption on Madaraka Express Booking Channels

In the meantime Kenya Railways advised its, customers to purchase tickets over the counter at the nearest Madaraka Express Passenger Service station.

Kenya Railways further apologized for the inconvenience caused to customers by the technical hitch.

“We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused,” the notice read.

The notice comes days after the corporation announced the return of the Nanyuki Train Service on Wednesday, January 22.

Also Read: Kenya Railways Issues Update on Nairobi-Kisumu Train

In a statement, Kenya Railways confirmed that the Nanyuki train had resumed normal operations after a week-long disruption caused by a blockage on a section of the line, which had been hindering the movement of trains between Nairobi and Nanyuki.

“We would like to inform the public that the Nanyuki Safari Train is now operating as per its usual schedule,” the statement read.

According to Kenya Railways, the train will leave Nairobi Central Station for Nanyuki every Friday at 9:00 a.m. and make the return trip from Nanyuki to Nairobi every Sunday at 9:00 a.m.

KRC Announces Resumption of Normal Operations for Kisumu Safari Train

Elsewhere, KRC announced that the Kisumu Safari Train had reverted to the normal weekly schedule.

In a notice on Friday, January 17, 2025, the Corporation said that the train will depart from Nairobi Central Station for Kisumu every Friday at 5:30 PM and make its return trip from Kisumu to Nairobi every Sunday at 6:00 PM.

On Thursday October 31, the corporation announced delays for the Mombasa to Nairobi Standard Gauge Railway (SGR).

Also Read: KNEC & Kenya Railways Announce Vacancies – How to Apply

In a statement, the Authority indicated that the delay would occur for over one hour. 

“We wish to inform our customers that we are anticipating a 1 hour 40 minutes delay for the Mombasa to Nairobi afternoon Express train. The train will depart Mombasa Terminus at 16:40 hrs,” read the statement in part.

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The letter from Usawa Agenda Executive Director Emmanuel Manyasa states that the transition from the 8-4-4 system remains a formidable challenge, causing confusion and significant distress to learners, parents, private investors in education, and the entire education system.

Manyasa said the successful implementation of CBC, or indeed any curriculum switch, requires clear agency, fidelity to the plan, focus on the overall goal, and adequate funding.

“It is with great humility that I pen this letter to you (President Ruto) on this International Day of Education with this unique request: save the CBC from collapse. I believe that I speak for many. Our country has had many failed attempts at reforming our education system. Most of the failures, stemming from haphazard Implementation and under-resourcing,” read the letter in part.

“The advent of the CBC through an elaborately consultative process renewed hope of remedying past failures. But as you know, the implementation process was bangled by your predecessor’s regime.”

Details of the Open Letter Send to Ruto

It added, “Haphazard implementation, departure from the CBC framework, and strongarming teachers and other critical actors in the sector to sing along while the system decayed under its belly now dog this system.”

“You were handed an already bangled the process in which all the actions that were being taken amounted to kicking the can down the hill to save face and the day.

You confronted this early in your presidency, having to immediately deal with the crisis of the transition to junior school and provided an interim solution of domiciling Junior Secondary School learners in primary schools. It was the most pragmatic solution in the circumstances.”

The letter further read, “You then constituted the Presidential Working Party on Education Reforms (PWPER), the third such party tasked with education reforms in the country.

While the PWPER report made bold proposals, which may have a lasting positive impact on our education system, their proposals from the 8-4-4 to the 2-6-6-3 system are suboptimal.”

Also Read: Ichung’wah Slams Kalonzo, Says He Can’t Match Ruto After Mumias Sugar Remarks

Four Key Issues of Concern Raised on CBC Implementation

Usawa Agenda Director opined that the lack of a dedicated agency responsible for steering the transition has resulted in poor coordination and lack of accountability, both of which are essential for successful reform.

He mentioned that infidelity in the CBC framework has clouded the original vision and is causing setbacks in achieving the desired outcomes, which could abort the whole reform process.

Another issue raised was the unpredictable and fragmented funding for the transition, leading to delays in financial allocation and disbursement.

This, he said, is because CBC implementation commenced without an implementation plan, which should be a major factor in assessing implementation readiness.

At the same time, Manyasa stated that the inadequate number and diversity of teachers, along with infrastructure deficiencies in schools, undermine the ability of these schools to provide high-quality education, especially since Junior Secondary School (JSS) is critical to the success of CBC.

Also Read: ODM Calls Out State House After Heckling in Ruto’s Event

Proposal on Structures of Implementing CBC

Manyasa proposed a recategorization of public secondary schools based on the pre-8-4-4 model, where, depending on capacity, some schools offered education only up to O-level, some offered O-level and one stream of A-level (Arts), while others offered O-level and two streams of A-level (Arts and Sciences).

He proposes Category One to be Junior School. Category Two would be Junior School and Senior School (Humanities stream), Category Three would be Junior and Senior School (Humanities and STEM stream), and Select TVET institutions would be Senior School (Technical stream).

These options, he said, enable junior schools to be generally day schools, as envisaged in the framework, to allow constant interaction between learners, parents, and teachers, and also allow the use of surplus capacity in TVET institutions.

The letter states that this approach is easy to implement because the majority of secondary schools are day schools, and it alleviates the looming, catastrophic shortage of teachers and facilities for the technical stream of senior schools.

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The Head of State while speaking at a rally in Bungoma Town on Friday revealed that the government had already set up a comprehensive plan for a city in the populous county.

“Things to do with the old airstrip, you told me that the one that was near Bungoma town no longer works. We have built another airstrip at Matulo which is functioning. Now, the piece of land where the old airstrip was which is nearly 37 acres will be used in our plans to expand Bungoma town up to the new airstrip so that we have a modern city in Bungoma County,” he said.

Ruto announces plan to confer city status to Bungoma Town

According to Ruto, plans to elevate the Western Kenya town to a city include construction of affordable houses and mapping out of a Central Business District.

“We have already done the planning, mapped out a new CBD and we are going to build 2,000 houses under the affordable housing project starting next month as the fifteenth story building in the town so that residents can live in a city,” Ruto added.

Also Read: Ruto Unpacks Ksh969 Million Goodies for Western Kenya During Tour

Last year, Ruto also promised to rehabilitate the Matulo Airport by extending its runway and constructing a new terminus.

The President said that a modern airport would be a game changer for Bungoma and traders within the devolved unit who were initially forced to travel to Eldoret to access air transport.

If granted city status, Bungoma will join Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret as the only cities in Kenya.

President Ruto in August 2024 awarded Eldoret a city charter and a seal making it Kenya’s fifth city.

Also Read: Ichung’wah Slams Kalonzo, Says He Can’t Match Ruto After Mumias Sugar Remarks

Eldoret granted city status

He signed the charter, sealing the town’s city status on August 17, 2024, during a ceremony attended by governors from the North Rift Economic Bloc (NOREB) region including the host, Uasin Gishu’s Jonathan Bii. 

The Head of State reaffirmed that Eldoret had met the criteria required for an urban area to become a city after vetting by the Senate. 

“Now therefore in exercise of the powers conferred on the head of state under section 7 of the Urban Areas and Cities Act, I Kipchirchir William Samoei Ruto, president of Kenya and Commander in Chief of Kenya’s Defence Forces do hereby ordain, declare and direct that the municipality of Eldoret has been conferred with city status,” Ruto declared amid cheers by hundreds of residents who witnessed the fete. 

He said Eldoret should now focus on the great opportunities and significant challenges ahead, not only because the future is urban, but also because it has what it takes to emerge as the ultimate city of the future.

Ruto noted the future development and prosperity of Eldoret lies in the strategic framework laid down by the county through its planning, policy and regulations, as well as other mechanisms that must deliver a safe, orderly, ecologically sustainable and efficient city that promotes the dignity and well-being of residents and communities.

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FKE CEO Jacqueline Mugo while addressing the press on Friday, January 24, noted that this figure is likely to be higher, as it only accounts for members of the federation.

The manufacturing sector was the hardest hit, with numerous job cuts affecting its workforce.

“Generally, the 2024 business environment posed significant challenges, including low demand, liquidity constraints, rising costs, challenging tax regime, frequent legislative changes, a shrinking market and loss of competitiveness,” read the statement in part

“These challenges strained employers, reduced productivity, and hindered job creation. They also led to redundancies, closure of businesses and difficulty in compliance with the Employment Act regarding the two-thirds limit set on payroll deductions for each month.”

FKE Wants Government to Clear Ksh 1.1 Trillion Pending Bills

In addition to addressing redundancies, employers are urging the government to clear Ksh1.1 trillion in pending bills.

They argue that settling these outstanding debts would significantly alleviate the financial strain on businesses and improve the overall economic environment, creating a more conducive atmosphere for growth and investment.

FKE called upon government to put in place policies that support business growth and sustainability to spur job creation and improve the living standards of Kenyans.

Also Read: Top 10 High-Demand Skills Across Industries for the Global Workforce

The employers urged the government to maintain fiscal responsibility in the upcoming 2025/2026 budget by prioritizing efficiency in public service delivery and honoring contracts, including Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs).

Others include ensuring timely payment of bills including clearance of pending bills, strengthening accountability and transparency in budget-making and execution to curb waste, fraud, and abuse.

Additional steps include cutting non-essential government spending, reallocating resources to key development programs, managing debt wisely, reducing bureaucracies, and eliminating role duplication.

Demand of Lower Taxation from Government

To lower the cost of doing business, the Federation urged the government to adopt a stable, predictable, and progressive tax regime to foster business planning and long-term investment.

“The employers appeal to the government not to introduce any new taxes that could burden businesses and increase payroll deductions,” said FKE.

“To support businesses and foster economic growth, there is a need to lower administrative, production and service taxes while streamlining regulatory requirements to reduce compliance costs.”

At the same time, FKE proposed the formalization of informal enterprises to stop shrinking in the private sector.

The federation stated that opening new market access opportunities, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises, will support their growth and innovation.

“Increasing access to credit for production will help drive business development while supporting the growth of village household cottage industries can serve as a solid foundation for rural economic growth, creating jobs and fostering local entrepreneurship,” it added.

Also Read: Report Reveals 15 Fastest Growing Jobs

Employers Asks Govt to Strengthen Labor Relations

Furthermore, FKE said the government needs to strengthen labor relations through enhancing the financing of labor market institutions and strengthening the quality of social dialogue in the country.

The employers also demand the gazettement of members of the tripartite labor institutions, including the wages council that awaits gazettement, such as the private security wages council, hotel and catering trade wages council, and the seafarers’ wages council.

“Effective social dialogue is vital for industrial harmony. However, non-implementation of negotiated agreements, such as return-to-work formulas, undermines trust and disrupts essential sectors like healthcare and education,” the employers noted.

“The Federation of Kenya Employers calls for strengthened tripartite structures to ensure transparent, respectful, and constructive engagement.”

They noted that social dialogue must be a priority for fostering sustainable industrial peace and development and the overall quality of discourse should be measured to enhance social harmony and unity in the country.

This, according to them, will enhance confidence in Kenya as an investment destination and contain capital flight.

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We all must admit that owning a fleet of cars can be challenging. Imagine not trusting anyone else but you to keep tabs on your fleet. The big question is, what happens when you travel? Who will keep track of them? Who will ensure that the cars are not mishandled by the staff? What happens when you have no one else to rely on? All these questions must be considered if you really care about the safety of your cars.

In today’s fast-paced and competitive business environment, efficient tracking and fleet management are critical components for organizations relying on transportation and logistics.

Whether it is a small business managing a few delivery vans or a large corporation overseeing hundreds of vehicles, tracking and fleet management solutions are indispensable tools for optimizing operations, reducing costs, and improving customer satisfaction.

In Kenya, fleet owners often encounter challenges such as fuel theft (siphoning), inadequate vehicle maintenance, inefficient route usage, leading to unnecessary losses, and a lack of technology adoption for fleet monitoring.

Fleet management involves the administration, control, and optimization of a company’s vehicle fleet. This encompasses tasks such as vehicle tracking, maintenance scheduling, fuel management, driver monitoring, and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

By leveraging advanced technologies like GPS tracking and telematics, fleet management systems provide real-time data and insights to streamline operations and enhance efficiency.

Below are some of the reasons as to why tracking and fleet management is essential as a fleet owner:

Benefits of fleet management 

Improved Efficiency

Tracking and fleet management technology aids in planning the most efficient routes, minimizing travel time and fuel consumption. Recurring cases of drivers going off-route have increased overtime.

However, this can be managed by use of real-time GPS tracking which enables fleet owners to monitor vehicle locations and statuses at any given moment.

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Also Read: Smart Tips to Consider When Choosing a Courier Service for Your Business

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This facilitates better route planning, reduces idle time, and ensures faster deliveries resulting to customer satisfaction. Dynamic route optimization also helps drivers avoid traffic congestion, minimizing delays and resulting in significant time and fuel savings.

Improved Safety and Compliance

Tracking systems monitor driver behaviour, including speed, braking patterns, and adherence to road regulations. These tracking systems help in keeping tabs on your cars in real-time.

By identifying risky behaviours, businesses can implement targeted training programs to enhance safety.

Also, most of the surveillance systems provided by the security firms, are normally equipped with alarms that give real-time alerts which notify you and the control room of the security firm of any suspicious activities, enabling quick responses to potential threats.

Additionally, automated compliance tracking ensures that vehicles meet legal requirements, such as licensing, insurance, and emissions standards.

Reduced Costs

Fleet management solutions reduce operational costs by optimizing fuel consumption, cutting maintenance expenses through predictive maintenance alerts, and minimizing unauthorized vehicle use.

By analysing vehicle performance data, businesses can identify inefficiencies and implement corrective measures to enhance cost-effectiveness.

Improved Customer Satisfaction

Running a courier or delivery business? In this age of instant gratification, timely deliveries are crucial for customer satisfaction.

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Also Read: How Women Can Spur Growth of the Private Security Sector

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Real-time tracking allows businesses to provide accurate delivery estimates and proactively communicate updates to customers via their phones. This transparency builds trust and enhances the overall customer experience.

Tracking and fleet management are indispensable for businesses seeking to optimize operations, enhance customer satisfaction, and achieve long-term success.

By investing in advanced fleet management solutions and addressing associated challenges such as resistance to change and data security concerns, companies can unlock significant value and maintain a competitive edge in their industries.

As technology continues to evolve, the future of fleet management promises even greater efficiencies and innovations, paving the way for a smarter and more sustainable transportation ecosystem.

This article was written by SGA Kenya Tracking Manager, Jeremy Nzomo. 

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In a statement, LSK President Faith Odhiambo stated that extending the ban to advocates employed by or associated with Ahmednasir’s law firm, along with their clients, infringes on their right to earn a living and other constitutional rights.

“Extending the ban to advocates employed by or associated with Mr. Ahmednasir’s law firm, along with their clients, infringes on the right to earn a living, the independence of the legal profession, and the right to legal representation,” the statement read.

“Disturbingly, the Court has condemned associates without disclosing any offense they have committed against it, merely by virtue of their association.” 

LSK condemns Supreme Court decision on lawyer Ahmednasir

Odhiambo further noted that this action not only undermines the rule of law but also denies clients the freedom to choose legal representation, a fundamental tenet of access to justice guaranteed under the Constitution.

Additionally, the LSK president argued that the Court’s failure to utilize the existing mechanisms for disciplining advocates, as established under the Advocates Act, further worsens the situation.

“For the Supreme Court to bar advocates from accessing a constitutional organ without following proper dispute settlement processes reeks of judicial impunity, which the LSK condemns in the strongest terms,” Odhaimbo argued.

Also Read: JSC Issues Way Forward on Removal of CK Koome and 6 Other Judges

At the same time LSK confirmed that it has already filed a petition regarding Supreme Court’s decision to ban lawyer Ahmednasir to appear before it.

“In line with its mandate under Section 4 of the Law Society of Kenya Act, which includes protecting and assisting the public in all matters touching on law and justice, the LSK filed Constitutional Petition No. E026 of 2024 before the High Court. This petition challenges the Supreme Court’s decision of 18th January 2024, as well as any resulting actions or orders,” the LSK President stated.

Further Odhiambo called on the judiciary to expedite the resolution of this matter.

“Given the far-reaching implications of the continued existence of these orders, we urge the judiciary to expedite the resolution of this matter,” Odhiambo stated.

The LSK warned the Supreme Court that decisions of this nature risk eroding public trust in the judiciary and setting a dangerous precedent that undermines the equitable administration of justice.

Moreover, Odhiambo urged the judiciary to embrace constructive criticism and accountability while exercising its independence.

Lawyers threaten to Occupy Supreme Court 

Additionally, Odhiambo stated that if the LSK’s calls for the reversal of these orders are not heeded to, they will be compelled to take further action, including mobilizing its members to stage peaceful protests and occupy the Supreme Court in demonstration.

Advocates may also be called upon to boycott appearances before the Court as an expression of disapproval.

Lawyer Ahmednasir Abdullahi was banned from appearing before the Supreme Court of Kenya on January 18, 2024.

Also Read: World Bank Responds to Lawyer Ahmednasir Abdullahi

The decision was made due to what the Supreme Court described as his consistent and distasteful remarks against the institution and its judges on various media platforms.

The ban was also extended to employees of his law firm, preventing them from filing cases before the Supreme Court.

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Over the past decade, we have witnessed an almost complete overhaul of the education sector. Classrooms have dramatically transformed with the adoption of AI tools in everyday learning, ranging from personalized learning algorithms to automated grading systems.

These tools have brought unprecedented efficiency and scalability to education, allowing teachers to focus more on individual student needs and creative aspects of teaching.

However, this technological revolution has raised important questions about the role of human agency in education.

As we automate more aspects of learning and teaching, how do we ensure that students and educators maintain control over the educational process?

First, we should understand that AI should improve, not replace, human capabilities in education. The key to preserving human agency in education lies in striking the right balance between technological efficiency and human involvement.

While AI can excel at tasks like providing instant feedback on multiple-choice assessments or generating practice problems, it cannot replace the nuanced understanding of human teachers who recognize the emotional and social aspects of learning.

AI opportunities in Education

In Africa, where education systems face unique structural and resource constraints, AI offers the potential to leapfrog traditional barriers.

Personalized learning algorithms can address disparities in access to quality education, and automated systems can bridge gaps in teacher-to-student ratios.

Yet, as we embrace these innovations, we must ask ourselves: are we creating systems that empower learners and educators, or are we unknowingly relinquishing control to technologies that prioritize efficiency over human connection?

Nonetheless, AI’s impact cannot be overstated, and we have done well as a continent in embracing it. However, we must improve and strengthen our data systems to fully maximize its potential in our education sector.

These systems play an integral role in the AI ecosystem, providing the infrastructure and processes necessary for managing, storing, and processing the data that powers AI applications.

Also Read: How to Prepare Graduates for Workforce in the Age of AI

Place of Africa

The balance between technological advancement and human agency is particularly important for Africa as we continue to grow. While AI can support the rapid scaling of educational solutions, the essence of education—critical thinking, empathy, and emotional intelligence—remains deeply human.

It is imperative to build educational systems where technology complements rather than overrides the social and cultural dimensions of learning.

This is especially relevant as the continent invests in strengthening education data systems to power AI-driven decision-making.

Projects such as the African Population and Health Research Center’s initiative in Uganda, Burkina Faso, and Senegal highlight the strategic importance of efficient data infrastructure.

Improving how education data is collected, managed, and analyzed aims to ensure that AI applications serve context-specific needs while enhancing transparency and accountability.

Concerns about AI

Recently, concerns have been raised about how AI slowly takes away students’ critical thinking ability, sparking calls to shun technology, especially in the classroom. Valid as these concerns may be, AI will not soon leave our classrooms.

Therefore, the focus must shift to helping students understand how to evaluate AI-generated content and develop independent thinking skills. This includes teaching them when to use AI tools and when to rely on their cognitive abilities.

Another important aspect of education that AI cannot fully address is nurturing emotional intelligence, empathy, and social skills among learners—critical aspects of education that only human teachers can provide.

Ultimately, students should be taught to use AI as an enhancer for whatever aspect of their education they seek to improve, empowering them to be active participants rather than passive consumers of technology.

On the other hand, we must also invest in empowering educators to effectively integrate AI tools into their teaching methods. This means ongoing training to understand AI capabilities, limitations, and biases, enabling them to make informed decisions about when and how to use these tools.

In the long term, it will also be helpful for educational institutions to develop curricula incorporating AI while focusing on human-centric skills like critical thinking, creativity, and emotional intelligence.

The place of Critical thinking 

As AI increasingly permeates classrooms, the debate around its implications for critical thinking intensifies. Concerns about AI undermining students’ ability to think independently are valid, but the answer does not lie in rejecting technology.

Instead, the focus must shift to equipping learners with the cognitive tools to evaluate AI-generated content critically.

Also Read: STEM Gap: Why Fewer Girls Pursue Science Courses and How to Change Trend

In doing so, we cultivate a generation that is not only technologically literate but also capable of harnessing AI as a tool for innovation and problem-solving.

Equally important is the role of educators. Empowering teachers through ongoing training in AI integration is essential to maintaining their leadership in the learning process.

Evolving relationship

As we move into 2025 and beyond, the relationship between AI and education will continue to evolve. The key is not to fight against automation, but to skillfully integrate it while safeguarding the irreplaceable human dimensions of education.

Success in this endeavor requires ongoing dialogue between educators, students, parents, and technology developers.

With the penetration of AI into our everyday lives, the future of education lies in creating a symbiotic relationship where technology enhances rather than diminishes human capabilities.

By focusing on critical thinking, creativity, and emotional intelligence while leveraging AI’s capabilities for personalization and efficiency, we can create an educational system that prepares students for a future where human agency and technological advancement coexist harmoniously.

Ultimately, the African continent has an unprecedented opportunity to lead in reimagining education systems where AI and human agency coexist harmoniously. By investing in both technological infrastructure and human-centered pedagogies, we can prepare a generation of learners equipped to navigate a future defined by collaboration between human creativity and machine intelligence. In this endeavor, Africa’s diversity and resilience can be a powerful blueprint for the world.

This article was written by: Chao Shete, Communications Officer, & Diama D. Dia, Senior Communications Officer, African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC). 

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The revelation follows CJ Koome’s recent statement announcing that the Ministry of Interior had withdrawn her security detail.

Speaking in Diani on Friday during the launch of the National Government Administration Police Unit (NGAP), Murkomen clarified that her security was neither withdrawn nor downgraded.

He said three of Koome’s officers are currently undergoing training following their promotion.

“I know the manual says that she is entitled to six police officers as her bodyguards, but our CJ is one of the most-guarded public officers with 32 security personnel assigned to her,” Murkomen stated.

“Even with three officers proceeding for training, she will remain with 29 at her service.”

Murkomen Says Koome Went “Too Public” Over the Matter

He added that there is no scheme whatsoever to undermine Chief Justice Martha Koome or the Judiciary.

“For the comfort of the country the Chief Justice is among public officers who are properly taken care of in terms of her security,” he said.

At the same time, CS Murkomen said it was unfortunate that the CJ had gone “too public” with the matter.

“We have a lot to see how we are going to work together. Unfortunately, our Chief Justice went too far about this issue. Ordinarily, the Chief Justice should have called the Inspector General to say thank you very much for the promotion,” he said.

“Unfortunately, it has gone the other way. We want to assure the Chief Justice that that was a small matter. It didn’t necessitate raising alarm.”

Also Read: EACC Launches Corruption Probe into Judiciary After Martha Koome Letter

Koome Writes Letter After Security Details Withdrawn

This comes after Koome in a letter addressed to CS Murkomen and IG Douglas Kanja said the decision is not only an insult to the Judiciary’s independence but also poses a threat to the safety of judicial officers across the country.

“I express profound concern over the withdrawal of security for the Chief Justice—an act that undermines judicial independence, threatens institutional integrity and endangers democratic progress,” the CJ said in the letter.

“State organs are entrusted with the solemn duty of serving the public using resources provided by taxpayers. This obligation demands that no institution or office holder be subjected to intimidation, coercion, or undue interference by another arm of government.”

Further, Koome highlighted that security for her office was not a personal privilege, but a structural necessity that ensures the Judiciary functions autonomously and without fear.

“It (security) serves as an institutional safeguard to protect judicial officers, premises, and processes from any threats that could impair the administration of justice. The withdrawal of this security detail is an egregious affront to the principle of separation of powers,” said Koome.

Also Read: IG Kanja Explains why CJ Koome’s Security was Withdrawn

IG Kanja Explains CJ Koome’s Security Withdrawal

In response, IG Kanja dismissed allegations that security officers assigned to Koome were withdrawn.

Instead, the Kanja clarified that the officers had been recalled to attend promotional courses or transferred procedurally to other stations.

Addressing the concerns, the IG attributed the brief security gap to poor coordination, which led to the outgoing officers leaving before their replacements arrived.

“Some officers assigned to the Chief Justice have been reassigned, while others have been deployed to fill the gap,” IG Kanja explained.

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While addressing the media on Friday, January 24, Kalonzo claimed that a former IEBC commissioner is advising the Secretariat on procurement.

The Wiper leader also alleged that the commission’s server has been moved to a different location.

“Within the IEBC Secretariat itself, there are terrible things going on there like procurement and they are testing the ground, Kalonzo said.

“We gathered that there is a former commissioner sitting as advisor in the Statehouse who is giving instructions to the IEBC Secretariat.” 

Kalonzo Reveals Procurement Mischief of IEBC Ballot Papers and Server

He added, “The country is watching, and they are testing waters and if we allow them to go on with the procurement, the next thing they want to do is to procure election materials for 2027, print them in excess of the numbers that will be there in order to further comprise the integrity of the election process.

“They have removed the server from IEBC to some other destinations.”

Kalonzo also demanded that President William Ruto move with speed to put in place the nine selected persons for the IEBC, leading to its formation and reconstitution.

He called on National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula to forward the names to the Head of State as the chairperson of the Parliamentary Commission.

Also Read: Kalonzo Reveals Abduction Squad Headquaters

Court Clears Path for IEBC Reconstitution

This comes after the High Court, in a ruling on January 24, 2025, cleared the way for the IEBC selection panel list to be forwarded to President William Ruto for appointment.

The petitioner, Boniface Njogu had argued that the panel lacked adequate representation of Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs) when he challenged its constitution in a petition last year.

Following the petition, a ruling by Judge Dola Chepkwony in October 2024 temporarily halted the process of forwarding the names of the selection panel members to the President until the matter was heard and determined.

However, Justice Chepkwony on Friday ruled that there was no evidence to show that PWDs were excluded or that the panel failed to meet gender and regional balance requirements.

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In a statement on Sunday, January 12, 2025, Murkomen said that those who break the law, whether online or offline, would pay for their sins.

“Regarding the misuse of social media, we shall apprehend and charge all those breaking the law. If criminals have moved online, it doesn’t mean that they are immune from the law,” Murkomen said.

Murkomen on police reforms

Murkomen revealed that the government is modernising equipment, digitising operations and enhancing mobility with more police vehicles.

“The men and women responsible for keeping our country safe and secure need our unwavering support in order to effectively discharge their mandate. That’s why we are committed to fully implementing police reforms, including a salary increase, enhanced medical coverage, and better housing,” he stated.

Murkomen’s sentiments come amidst increased cases of forced disappearances and abductions, which the police say they are not involved.

The latest to lament about the abductions is Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Performance and Delivery Management Justin Muturi, who says his son was a victim in the new wave of abductions.

Speaking to the press on Sunday, January 12, 2024, Muturi  fingered the security sector for failing to stop abductions and forced disappearances, despite claiming that they are not involved.

“The security sector has said that they are not involved in the abductions but interestingly, they have failed to stop them as they are happening in full public glare. The president has equally said he would like to see the abductions end. Kenyans would like to know; how many of our youths have been taken in since the abductions started. How many have been released, how many are still being held and where they are being held,” he added.

According to Muturi, the government saying it does not know anything about the abductions amounts to it shunning its responsibility on accountability.

“My son was abducted and disappeared. I was not sure whether he was alive or dead making us anxious and leaving me and my wife and the rest of the family in turmoil. At that time I was the attorney general of Kenya and a member of the National Security Council. Despite making several requests, I was unable to trace my son,” Muturi stated.

“Now, more than six months after the ordeal and his release by unknown forces, he has not been charged with any offence and the government at all levers has not been able to give me reasons for his abduction.”

The summons comes shortly after the CS made bold remarks expressing concern over the growing cases of abductions in the country.

In a statement released on Sunday, January 12, 2025, the DCI addressed Muturi’s concerns, reassuring the public of their commitment to resolving abduction cases.

“Further to the Inspector General’s update on cases of abductions dated January 6, 2025, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) takes note of today’s sentiments by the Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Performance and Delivery Management of Kenya Hon. Justin Bedan Muturi, who has expressed a sense of despair on the outcome of investigations on abductions,” the DCI said.

The agency assured Kenyans that most abduction cases reported to the police had been successfully investigated and are pending before the courts. They also pledged that ongoing investigations into new cases would be conducted with equal diligence.

The DCI said the matter regarding Muturi’s son is being handled by their Kilimani branch. The authority revealed that only Muturi’s son had volunteered to record a statement and urged the CS, along with any other individuals with relevant information, to come forward and assist in the investigations.

“The alleged case of abduction involving CS Justin Muturi’s son is active before DCI Kilimani. Considering that only the son volunteered to record a statement, we wish to invite CS Muturi and any other person with information on the incident to record a statement with DCI Kilimani,” the statement read.

The DCI further noted that several inquiry files related to abductions are at various stages of investigation, with plans to forward them to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) upon completion.

Muturi to govt

During a press briefing earlier in the day, CS Muturi shared his family’s harrowing experience with abduction, revealing that his son had been abducted while he was serving as Attorney General and a member of the National Security Council.

“My son was abducted and disappeared. I was not sure whether he was alive or dead, making us anxious and leaving me, my wife, and the rest of the family in turmoil. At that time, I was the Attorney General of Kenya and a member of the National Security Council. Despite making several requests, I was unable to trace my son,” Muturi stated.

The CS also raised concerns about the increasing cases of forced disappearances and abductions, some of which are reportedly linked to government agencies.

Muturi revealed that his son was released after more than six months in captivity but has not been charged with any crime. He expressed frustration over the government’s failure to explain the abduction.

“Now, more than six months after the ordeal and his release by unknown forces, he has not been charged with any offence, and the government at all levels has not been able to give me reasons for his abduction,” he said.

He criticized the security sector for failing to address the ongoing abductions.

“The security sector has said that they are not involved in the abductions, but interestingly, they have failed to stop them as they are happening in full public glare. The president has equally said he would like to see the abductions end. Kenyans would like to know; how many of our youths have been taken in since the abductions started. How many have been released, how many are still being held, and where they are being held?”

Muturi also accused the government of breaching its duty to protect citizens, calling the inaction a failure of accountability.

The incident happened on Sunday, January 12, 2025, when Kirinyaga Central detectives were deployed to pursue a person of interest linked to a robbery case with violence.

After tracking him, the officers drove to the area to flush out the person of interest and apprehend him.

However, detectives were attacked by a rowdy mob who threatened to set ablaze their vehicle.

“A rowdy mob, however, pooled forces and attacked the officers who were onboard a government vehicle registration no. KBZ 684Y, threatening to set it ablaze should they not release the suspect,” DCI’s statement read in part.

“Thanks to a back up by the local police, area chief and Nyumba Kumi heads, who prevailed over the tense situation and facilitated the taking into custody of the dangerous suspect,” it added.

Warning to Kenyans

Following the incident, DCI warned the members of the public against blocking lawful arrests. In a statement, DCI maintained that obstructing the officers is a criminal offence.

“The DCI cautions members of the public that obstructing police officers in the course of executing their constitutional mandate is a serious criminal offence, and much worse is any attempt to aid the escape of a criminal offender or prisoner,” DCI cautioned the public.

“Equally, posing imminent threat to life or property of any person is not justifiable under any legal parameters, and will be met with the full force of the law.”

The reaction from residents of the Kiamanyeki area of Mwea East came after a series of abductions in the country raising concern among citizens.

With some of the victims narrating that they were picked with vehicles which did not bear official government emblems, the public turned alert to protect themselves after the National Police Service absolved themselves from the issue of abductions.

SUSPECT IN ROBBERY, RAPE CASES ARRESTED IN MWEA

A suspect implicated in a case of robbery with violence and rape is in custody following her arrest earlier today at Kiamanyeki area of Mwea East. The arrest followed a sting operation conducted by Kirinyaga Central detectives.…

— DCI KENYA (@DCI_Kenya) January 12, 2025

The abduction took place around 3:15 pm on Sunday, January 12, 2024, from Chaka Place in the upscale Kilimani area by three armed men driving a black Noah.

The incident occurred as Tsehai was leaving Yaya Centre, moments before she could board a cab.

Several prominent Kenyans and rights groups quickly raised the alarm following Tsehai’s abduction in Kilimani.

“Ms @MariaSTsehai Tanzanian independent media editor and human rights defender kidnapped by three armed men in a black Noah from Chaka Place, Kilimani, Nairobi, Kenya at 3.15pm today. Teams on site.
Spread the word, let’s keep Maria safe,” Amnesty Kenya announced on Sunday on X.

Tanzania’s opposition leader Tundu Lissu called on the Kenyan government to ensure Tsehai’s safety following her abduction in Nairobi.

“Maria Sarungi-Tsehai, one of Tanzania’s foremost and fearless critics of the Samia regime and a dearest friend has been snatched by three unidentified gunmen in the vicinity of Yaya Centre in the Kenyan capital of Nairobi.

“A strident opponent of the Magufuli dictatorship, Maria had fled to exile in Kenya since just before the fraudulent 2020 general elections and had been running Chanzo TV, a pro-democracy online platform.

“While we hope and pray for Maria’s life and safety, we must call upon the Kenyan government and all people of goodwill from around the world to intervene in whatever capacity they can to help secure Maria’s safe return to her family.

“And we must tell whoever is behind Maria’s abduction and disappearance that no amount of terror and violence or intimidation will silence us. That many many more Marias will step forward to take up her fight for democracy and decency in Tanzania,” Lissu wrote on X.

Several prominent Kenyans took to social media demanding the immediate release of Maria Tsehai, some linking her abduction to what happened to Uganda’s opposition figure Kizza Besigye in Nairobi.

“I condemn in the strongest possible terms the abduction of @MariaSTsehai a Tanzanian champion for democracy and human rights in the vicinity of Yaya Centre in Nairobi.

“This incident, which follows closely on the heels of the abduction of Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye, is a deeply troubling violation of human rights and an alarming signal regarding the safety and security of all individuals within our borders, regardless of nationality.

“Her abduction is not only an attack on her personal freedoms but also an assault on the very principles that Kenya has long stood for; the right to speak freely, the right to dissent, and the right to live without fear of political persecution.

“We stand in full solidarity with Maria, her family, the people of Tanzania, and the broader East African community in condemning this despicable and unlawful act.

“Kenya, which has long been considered a refuge for those seeking freedom from authoritarian regimes, must not allow itself to become a country where political opposition is silenced through violence, abduction, and intimidation.

“It is deeply concerning that such acts are now being carried out on Kenyan soil. The Kenyan government must act without delay to ensure the safety and protection of all individuals, both foreign and domestic, within our borders.

“Finally, I urge the international community to join us in calling for Maria’s immediate release and in standing firm against the erosion of democracy and human rights across East Africa,” Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah wrote on X.

Maria Tsehai speaks out

Maria Sarungi Tsehai was released hours later after her abduction following widespread reports and public concern.

Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo confirmed Tsehai’s release, vowing to pursue answers from relevant authorities following her abduction.

“@MariaSTsehai has been released and is safe for now. The unfortunate ordeal she has endured paints a worrying picture of the state of our country’s human rights context. We will pursue answers from all relevant authorities on why this happened. We thank everyone for the concern and support in ensuring her release,” Odhiambo wrote.

Speaking in the company of the LSK President and other human rights defenders, Maria Tsehai thanked everyone who spoke out against her abduction.

The traumatized Tanzanian human rights defender broke down in tears while speaking. She promised to give more details about her abduction on Monday.

“Asanteni sana nko salama Mungu ni mwema na kesho ntachukua muda kuwashukuru vizuri. Naomba niwashukuru watu wa Kenya, Tanzania na all the international people,” Maria Tsehai said.

In an interview with a local TV station’s breakfast show on Monday, January 13, 2025, Wandeto noted that the AI-generated images circulating online are the youth’s way of silent resistance.

“By 2027, let us brace ourselves for a level of madness that we possibly wouldn’t control,” Wandeto said.

“The more we are getting into competition with the youth, the more we motivate them.”

This came just a day after Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen dared the youth to exercise discipline in social circles or face arrest.

“If the criminals and people of bad behaviour have moved from being manual to the digital space, I want to tell them we will follow you there; because that is where we want to ensure that there is law and order. We will expend every resource that is before us to make sure that we apprehend criminals,” Murkomen said on January 12, 2025.

One large jail

Wandeto, however, maintained that Murkomen should take it easy with the youth and let them be as he would run out of jails to accommodate all dissidents.

“It is either we convert the whole country into one large prison or we breathe in and out and let the youth be and focus on delivering the Kenya-Kwanza plan,” Wandeto remarked.

Adding: “I don’t know what size of jail we are going to create to accommodate all these young people who we will have to arrest and criminalise.”

Silent resistance

Wandeto indicated that the majority of the youth who have borne the brunt of abductions lack criminal intent and are simply expressing their own version of soft resistance.

“Some of them (youth) are having fun, expressing themselves and few, if any, are having any criminal intent. It is a silent protest; their own form of soft resistance,” Wandeto added.

The remarks came after five of six youths abducted between December 21-24, 2024, were released in various regions across the country after spending two weeks in custody.

While the National Police and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) distanced themselves from any involvement with the disappearances, President William Ruto promised to bring to an end the abductions during an address in Homa Bay county.

Ruto has equally warned the youth against posting gory images of individuals online, stating that it is an indiscipline which must be reigned.

In a sharp critique on Monday, January 13, 2025, Sigei suggested that Muturi’s remarks, which highlighted his son’s ordeal, carried political undertones rather than being solely an expression of parental concern.

“If you read through the statement, you appreciate where it’s coming from. But at the same time, you read undertones – not just of a concerned parent but of a political statement,” Sigei said during a televised interview.

The Bomet senator noted that it’s time for Muturi to ensure his son records a statement to aid investigations even as he slammed the CS for politicizing the issue of forced disappearances – a highly sensitive topic in Kenya.

“So, the answers that would be given to such statements would be in context of the issue at hand. On the one hand the former AG says ‘look I am a victim having had my son allegedly abducted sometimes back, six months ago’. At the same time also he has been invited to come, your son hasn’t recorded a statement. It’s your time to equally do because justice by the way cuts both ways,” Sigei stated.

Muturi’s statement on son’s abduction

Speaking to the press on Sunday, January 12, 2024, Muturi addressed the issue of abductions and forced disappearances, describing his son’s ordeal as deeply traumatic for his family.

“My son was abducted and disappeared. I was not sure whether he was alive or dead making us anxious and leaving me and my wife and the rest of the family in turmoil. At that time I was the attorney general of Kenya and a member of the National Security Council. Despite making several requests, I was unable to trace my son,” Muturi stated.

“Now, more than six months after the ordeal and his release by unknown forces, he has not been charged with any offense. The government, at all levels, has not been able to give me reasons for his abduction,” Muturi lamented.

Muturi criticized the security sector for failing to prevent abductions, even as officials claimed no involvement.

“The security sector has said that they are not involved in the abductions but interestingly, they have failed to stop them as they are happening in full public glare. The president has equally said he would like to see the abductions end. Kenyans would like to know; how many of our youths have been taken in since the abductions started. How many have been released, how many are still being held and where they are being held,” he added.

The abduction incident

The abduction of Leslie Muturi occurred on June 22, 2024, at the height of the Gen Z demonstrations across the country.

Embakasi West Member of Parliament Mark Mwenje publicly announced Leslie’s abduction moments after it occurred.

In a viral clip he shared on social media, Mwenje stated that he was with Leslie Muturi when police abducted him.

The Embakasi West MP disclosed that Leslie, whom he described as his friend, was taken out of his car by police officers by the roadside.

Mwenje claimed that they were driving in different cars alongside their other friends in Nairobi’s Kilimani area when police stopped Leslie’s car and took him away in a Land Cruiser.

“We were in Kilimani, my friend Leslie Muturi, son to AG Justin Muturi was just arrested by the police here on the road. I was the one following him, this is his car,” the MP said in the video.

Muturi’s son Leslie was released the following day June 23, 2024, hours after his arrest.

With attractive interest rates and flexible repayment terms, the program aims to ease the financial burden for those pursuing KASNEB qualifications across accredited institutions in Kenya.

About the scheme

The Kenya Accountants and Secretaries National Examinations Board (KASNEB) Foundation launched this initiative to assist students in achieving their academic goals.

The program covers the following costs:

KASNEB Fees:

1. Registration

2. Examination fees

3. Renewal fees

4. Exemption fees

Tuition fees:

Tuition in KASNEB-accredited institutions

Eligibility

The scheme is open to current KASNEB students as well as new applicants pursuing any of the following qualifications:

1. Certified Public Accountants (CPA)

2. Certified Secretaries (CS)

3. Certified Investment and Financial Analysts (CIFA)

4. Certified Credit Professionals (CCP)

5. Accounting Technicians Diploma (ATD)

6. Certificate in Accounting and Management Skills (CAMS)

Terms and conditions

The loan carries an interest rate of 6% per annum.

Repayment begins three years after completion of studies.

The maximum repayment period is 60 months, with the option for a shorter duration.

An administrative fee of Ksh 500 is charged at the time of disbursement.

How to apply

To apply for the loan or bursary, follow these steps:

1. Visit the HELB website at www.helb.co.ke.

2. Access the HELB Students’ Portal, register, and activate your account using your personal mobile number.

3. Log in and click the Loan Application tab on the left-hand dashboard.

4. Select one of the following options:

i) KASNEB Foundation Loan and Bursary Application – Tuition Fees Only

ii) KASNEB Foundation Loan and Bursary Application – KASNEB Fees Only

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Youssef expressed confidence in his AUC candidature while speaking in Kampala, Uganda, on Saturday, January 11, 2025, where he continued his campaigns as he attended the AU Summit on Agriculture that brought together several African heads of state and governments including President William Ruto.

“My campaign for the chairperson of the commission is on the right track: we will keep on engaging African leaders, ministers and opinion leaders,” Youssef wrote in a post on X.

The Djibouti AUC candidate additionally expressed confidence that he would trounce his competitors Raila Odinga of Kenya and Madagascar’s Richard James Randriamandrato.

“Dear friends and supporters, keep on supporting me: rest assured that I will prevail God willing,” Youssef stated.

Youssef also outlined his agenda which he intends to implement if elected AUC chair.

“I clearly hear the plea of African youth across the continent: I am aware of your expectations and I will spare no effort once elected to be your flag bearer,” he wrote.

Adding that; “You have all seen the outcome of the debate of the 13th December: I am ready to shoulder the responsibility: let us have a dream for Africa and make it come true together.”

Raila’s AUC candidature

The Kenyan government has intensified its campaign for Raila Odinga ahead of the upcoming AUC elections in February 2025.

In a statement on Friday, January 10, 2025, moments after meeting Raila’s AUC secretariate, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi said the team had mapped out the critical next steps, focusing on broadening the country’s outreach.

“I chaired a meeting to review the progress we are making in advancing Rt. Hon. @RailaOdinga‘s bid for the African Union Commission Chairperson position.

“Hon. Odinga’s Secretariat presented impressive progress since Kenya launched its candidature in August last year, outlining key milestones and a strategic roadmap for the final push ahead of the AUC elections in February 2025,” Mudavadi stated.

“I applauded the Secretariat and the State Department for Foreign Affairs for their collaborative efforts in building robust momentum toward securing Kenya’s leadership at the helm of the African Union Commission.

“Together, we mapped out the critical next steps, focusing on broadening our outreach and strengthening partnerships with AUC member states. With confidence and unity, we remain steadfast in delivering a transformative leader for Africa,” he added.

In January 2025 alone, President Ruto secured the endorsement of three countries for Raila’s AUC candidacy.

The recently elected President of Botswana Duma Boko vowed to support Raila after a meeting with Ruto on January 8, 2025.

Togo’s President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbe also promised to support Raila’s candidature after meeting Ruto on January 7, 2025.

Ruto also attended the inauguration of Ghana’s new president John Dramani Mahama on January 7, 2025, after he endorsed Raila’s bid for the AUC Chairperson position.

Earlier, Ruto hosted President Mahama at his Kilgoris home, Narok County on Sunday, December 29, 2024, where they discussed Raila’s AUC candidature among other issues.

As of December 2024, Raila had secured the support of at least 25 African leaders for his AUC bid.

To be elected AUC Chairperson, a candidate must secure a two-thirds majority during voting by the 55 member states.

Raila will need at least 36 votes out of the total 55, with each AU member state casting only one vote.