Entertaiment

   
In a powerful statement that resonated with many Kenyans, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has voiced his unwavering support for the elected leaders who continue to speak out on the grave issue of abductions and extra-judicial killings in Kenya. Gachagua, in a public message on behalf of the Kenyan people, expressed his appreciation for those leaders who have chosen to stand firm despite what he described as attempts by the state to suppress this important issue.
The ongoing reports of abductions and extrajudicial killings, Gachagua noted, are deeply troubling and have raised serious concerns both within Kenya and internationally. He further asserted that these atrocities appear to be state-sanctioned, as they target individuals who dare to speak out or criticize the government. This alarming trend, he emphasized, threatens the very foundations of Kenya’s democracy, where freedom of expression and dissent are crucial for the functioning of a healthy state.
“I am proud to see some leaders going beyond clear attempts by the state to wish this issue away,” Gachagua remarked, pointing to the courage of those who have continued to demand accountability. “The abductions and extra-judicial killings that have been happening are clearly state-sanctioned. This call for an open process to investigate them will provide an open and transparent forum for the whole world to see the extent to which this regime is willing to go to stifle independent voices. And this is part and parcel of how a democracy works.”
Gachagua’s statement echoed the growing call for an Independent Commission of Inquiry to investigate these disturbing allegations. He expressed his full support for this initiative, stressing the necessity of uncovering the truth behind the violations, bringing those responsible to justice, and ensuring that such actions are never repeated.
“We must get to the bottom of these gross human rights violations, identify and prosecute everyone involved in the abductions and extra-judicial killings, and ensure this will never happen again,” he declared, calling on the government and all relevant authorities to act decisively.
In addition to his demand for justice, Gachagua called for widespread support for the victims and their families. He emphasized the importance of providing counseling to those who have endured the trauma of abductions or lost loved ones to extra-judicial killings. “We must counter the efforts to instill fear in our young people and their families to discourage them from speaking truth to power,” he said.
The former Deputy President also made it clear that he continues to stand in solidarity with Kenyans who refuse to be intimidated, coerced, or silenced by those in power. He praised those who remain steadfast in their commitment to speaking out, even in the face of threats and violence.
“Freedom of expression is a fundamental right enshrined in our constitution,” Gachagua reminded the public. “Anyone who feels aggrieved by those exercising it must pursue the law in seeking redress.”
In closing, Gachagua reiterated his strong stance against any efforts to undermine the integrity of Kenya’s democracy. He rejected any attempts to portray the country as a “banana republic” where citizens are subjected to arbitrary violence and fear for voicing their opinions.
“Kenya is not a banana republic. We are a nation that believes in justice, human rights, and the rule of law. We must all stand together to ensure that our country remains true to these values,” he concluded.
As the call for justice and accountability continues to grow, Gachagua’s statement has sparked renewed discussion on the need for comprehensive action to address the ongoing human rights violations in Kenya. The Kenyan people, as well as the international community, are watching closely to see how the government responds to these critical calls for justice.  Read More 

  In a thrilling live showdown, DJ Klasiq emerged as the Nairobi region champion of the highly anticipated Smirnoff Battle of the Beats (SBOB). After a spectacular night filled with electrifying performances, the audience’s votes crowned DJ Klasiq the winner of the competition, which saw the city’s top four DJs go head-to-head in an unforgettable musical battle.The final round of the contest brought together DJ Klasiq, DJ Vancie, Funkeed Mixxingenious, and DJ Leeboy. Each contestant displayed immense talent and creativity, mixing different genres and engaging the crowd. However, it was DJ Klasiq’s high-energy performance and innovative mixing that struck a chord with the audience, securing the victory.DJ Grauchi, a respected judge of the competition, praised DJ Klasiq’s performance, saying, “The talent displayed in the Nairobi region has been outstanding. DJ Klasiq’s ability to connect with the crowd, innovate with their mixes, and maintain an electric energy throughout their set made them the deserved winner. The audience truly made the right choice with their votes.”The Smirnoff Battle of the Beats is part of Smirnoff’s “We Do We” campaign, which seeks to celebrate unity and creativity within Kenya’s music scene. More than just a competition, SBOB provides a platform for talented DJs to showcase their skills and gain recognition while fostering a sense of community through music.Kennedy Mutula, Smirnoff’s Spirits Marketing Manager, commented on the competition’s success, stating, “This competition is a reflection of our commitment to celebrating creativity and innovation within Kenya’s music scene. We are proud of all the participants in the Nairobi edition and look forward to working with them in future Smirnoff events that continue to unite and inspire our communities.”With the victory, DJ Klasiq joins an exclusive list of regional winners, including DJ Insta from the Lake region, DJ Kryptic from the Mountain region, Kay Jay the DJ from the Rift region, and Rattihy the DJ from the Coast region. These talented regional champions will now compete for the ultimate Smirnoff Battle of the Beats title at the grand finale.As SBOB continues to unearth Kenya’s top DJ talent, the competition promises even more excitement as these rising stars prepare for the national stage. Stay tuned for updates on the national finals and follow the journey of these talented artists as they make their mark on Kenya’s vibrant music scene.  Read More 

   Deputy President Kithure Kindiki today visited Suam Point of Entry/Exit in Endebess Constituency, Trans Nzoia County, to assess the ongoing works aimed at upgrading the facility into a modern One Stop Border Post (OSBP). The project is a key part of the government’s efforts to improve trade relations with Uganda, enhance regional integration, and streamline border management between the two countries.
Speaking during the visit, Deputy President Kindiki emphasized the importance of the Suam OSBP in fostering stronger economic ties between Kenya and Uganda, noting that Uganda remains Kenya’s biggest trading partner. “As part of our broader vision for regional integration, the government is committed to upgrading Suam Point of Entry into a modern One Stop Border Post. This upgrade will facilitate quicker and more efficient clearance of both human and vehicle traffic, benefiting businesses, traders, and local communities,” he said.
The OSBP initiative will enable border management officers from both Kenya and Uganda to share space, allowing for a more coordinated and faster process in clearing goods and people crossing the border. This is expected to reduce delays, enhance cross-border trade, and improve the overall efficiency of the border management system.
Deputy President Kindiki further highlighted the significant role that the upgrading of Suam Point will play in supporting regional economic development. “The integration of our infrastructure and services at Suam will not only ease trade between Kenya and Uganda, but also improve the flow of people and goods throughout the East African region,” he added.
During his visit, the Deputy President also followed up on the progress of the works and implementation of Presidential Directives that had been issued earlier for the expeditious completion of the Kenyan side of the OSBP. This step is crucial for facilitating the timely completion of the border post facilities, as well as the expansion of the 45-kilometer road connecting Suam to Kitale. The road expansion project is expected to further enhance connectivity and accessibility between the two countries.
Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, Dr. Raymond Omolo, accompanied the Deputy President on the visit, along with other government officials, to assess the status of the ongoing construction and to ensure the smooth implementation of the project.
The upgrade of Suam Point of Entry is part of Kenya’s larger strategy to improve border infrastructure and enhance regional cooperation under the East African Community (EAC) framework. By improving critical border points such as Suam, the government aims to boost trade, promote regional peace, and strengthen ties between neighboring countries.
The completion of the OSBP will mark a major milestone in the Kenya-Uganda trade corridor, opening new opportunities for businesses and communities along the border.  Read More 

  In a candid reflection on the tumultuous year of 2024, Nigerian comedian and content creator Mark Angel opened up about facing what he described as the “hardest year” of his life. Through various social media posts, Mark Angel disclosed that he suffered a staggering financial loss of over $3.7 million due to misguided investments in
The post Nigerian Comedian Mark Angel Reveals Massive 400 Million Financial Loss in 2024 appeared first on Ghafla! Kenya.  Read More 

  So, apparently, men and women’s brains are literally built differently, fresh out of the womb. It’s like buying two different models of a car, except one comes with extra memory and the other with a super-charged engine. A new study, involving the head-scanning of over 500 newborns (one can only imagine the tiny MRI machines!),
The post Boys Have Faster Brains, Girls Have Better Memories: Science Explains Every Argument Ever appeared first on Ghafla! Kenya.  Read More 

  Director Trevor has disclosed that he and his ex-girlfriend, content creator Mungai Eve, faced significant financial hardship while building a house for her parents. Trevor explained that he believed the project would enhance Mungai’s public image. However, the couple’s subsequent breakup, which included Trevor taking control of their shared YouTube channel, occurred after the project
The post Director Trevor Reveals Financial Strain of Building Mungai Eve’s Parents’ Home appeared first on Ghafla! Kenya.  Read More 

  Eric Latiff, a seasoned media personality with over 27 years of experience, has joined Nation Media Group (NMG) following his departure from Spice FM. NMG’s Head of Broadcasting, Simaloi Dajom, expressed excitement about Latiff’s appointment, highlighting his extensive experience across TV, radio, and digital platforms and emphasizing his alignment with the company’s innovation strategy. Latiff’s
The post Eric Latiff Joins Nation Media Group After Spice FM Exit appeared first on Ghafla! Kenya.  Read More 

   In a ceremony today, Cabinet Secretary for Interior, Kipchumba Murkomen, officially handed over the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports to his successor, Hon. Salim Mvurya, marking the end of his tenure at the helm of the ministry.
In his remarks, Murkomen expressed his deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve the country in such a crucial capacity, stating, “It is a privilege and an honor to serve your country in any capacity. My time in the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my career.”
Murkomen highlighted key achievements made during his tenure, noting that the ministry had made significant strides in transforming the youth, sports, and creative sectors. Notably, the review of the Sports Act and the fast-tracking of the Youth Development Bill were major milestones. These reforms, he said, would leave a lasting impact on the country’s youth and sports landscape.
Under Murkomen’s leadership, the ministry also formed a task force to combat gender-based violence in sports, addressing one of the most pressing issues in the industry. Additionally, significant efforts were made to improve sports infrastructure, with the aim of hosting the upcoming CHAN 2024 and AFCON 2027 tournaments, which are set to boost Kenya’s profile as a sports hub in Africa.
Another major achievement under Murkomen’s leadership was the development of a roadmap for the National Youth Elections process after a 12-year delay. The long-awaited FKF elections, which had stalled for years, were also successfully concluded during his tenure.
Murkomen expressed his gratitude to the ministry staff, particularly Principal Secretary Ismail Madey and Eng. Peter Tum, for their dedication and hard work, which were instrumental in achieving these accomplishments.
As he officially handed over the docket to Hon. Mvurya, Murkomen wished his successor well, saying, “I wish Hon. Mvurya Godspeed in his new role. I am confident that with his leadership, the ministry will continue to build on the successes we have achieved and reach even greater heights.”
Hon. Mvurya, the newly appointed Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, is expected to build on Murkomen’s legacy and continue the work of transforming the youth, sports, and creative sectors in Kenya.
Murkomen’s tenure is seen as a period of significant progress for the ministry, with several transformative policies and initiatives that are expected to benefit Kenya for years to come.  Read More 

   In a heartfelt statement, Kipkorir Ngetich, a prominent human rights activist based in Eldoret, welcomed the return of the boys who were recently abducted, expressing relief that they had been reunited with their families. However, Ngetich stressed the importance of addressing the serious issues surrounding the abductions and the urgent need for answers from security agencies and the general public.
Ngetich condemned the act of abduction in the strongest terms, calling it illegal and unacceptable. He pointed out that while the perpetrators of such heinous crimes must be held accountable, there are significant questions surrounding the recent case that demand thorough investigation.
“We are relieved that the boys have been released, but the circumstances of their abduction remain suspicious. The facts do not add up, and we need answers,” Ngetich said. He questioned the reliability of the alleged CCTV footage that failed to show clear images of the victims or their abductors, raising doubts about the accuracy of the initial reports.
Ngetich further highlighted the chilling motives behind abductions, which range from the extraction of crucial information through torture, to ransom demands, and even the potential for permanent injury or death. While acknowledging that modern methods of abduction may differ from the past, Ngetich emphasized that the motives remain as sinister as ever.
The activist called for the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the National Intelligence Service (NIS) to urgently analyze the movements and communications of the abducted youths in the weeks leading up to their disappearance. He also urged the government to track the vehicles allegedly used in the abduction, ensuring that those responsible for the crime are held accountable. “The security of our country must never be taken lightly,” Ngetich stressed.
Ngetich reminded the public of the police’s constitutional responsibility to protect lives and property, and their legal obligation to investigate cases of missing persons. He appealed to Kenyans not to politicize the issue, allowing law enforcement agencies to conduct their investigations in a calm and unbiased manner. He also called on the media to avoid spreading misleading information that could further heighten fear and tension within the community.
“We want the authorities to summon those who have been released to appear before the serious crimes unit for questioning,” Ngetich said. “The media must report the facts and not fall into the traps of irresponsible politicians seeking to manipulate public opinion.”
In addition, Ngetich appealed to parents and community leaders to support efforts in raising responsible and respectful youths who are grounded in discipline. He emphasized the crucial role of education in shaping the future of young people and called on them to use their talents for the common good.
He also warned the youth about the dangers of being manipulated into activities that could jeopardize their safety and the stability of the country. “If the country descends into chaos, the youth, too, will suffer,” he cautioned. “We must ensure that our young people are empowered, not pushed toward violence or destruction.”
Ngetich urged the government to find lasting solutions to the challenge of youth unemployment, a pressing issue that has contributed to frustration and vulnerability among many young people. He also appealed for heightened vigilance regarding Kenyans in the diaspora who may be involved in inciting hate and division.
As the situation continues to unfold, Ngetich and other human rights activists remain committed to seeking justice for the victims of abduction and to safeguarding the peace and security of Kenya.  Read More 

   By John KariukiHon. Rebecca Miano, the Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, has reaffirmed her commitment to supporting conservancies as a cornerstone of Kenya’s sustainable development. Her vision emphasizes the transformative role that community conservancies play in fostering coexistence between people and wildlife while driving socio-economic growth in the regions they serve.Under her leadership, the ministry has prioritized infrastructure development in conservancy areas. According to Hon. Miano, access roads are not just a means of transportation but critical enablers of development. By opening up remote areas, these roads allow communities to transport goods, access education, and seek healthcare. They also promote trade and tourism, creating economic opportunities for people living near conservancies.Hon. Miano has also highlighted the importance of water resource management in addressing conflicts between humans and wildlife. She notes that water scarcity often leads to competition, escalating tensions that are both costly and disruptive. To mitigate this, the ministry is actively supporting the development of water infrastructure within conservancies. By ensuring access to water for wildlife, agriculture, and daily needs, these initiatives reduce competition and foster harmony, benefiting both communities and ecosystems.Hon. Miano believes in proactive conflict prevention rather than relying on compensation for damages caused by wildlife. She underscores that compensation is often unsustainable and leaves victims in prolonged distress. Instead, the ministry is focused on creating systems that prevent such conflicts from arising, ensuring long-term coexistence and resilience.As the driving force behind these initiatives, Hon. Miano calls on stakeholders, development partners, and local communities to join hands with the ministry. She emphasizes that the success of conservancies is a collective responsibility and a vital investment in Kenya’s future.With her unwavering dedication, Hon. Rebecca Miano is championing a transformative approach to conservancies, ensuring they serve as hubs of opportunity, resilience, and sustainability for generations to come.  Read More