Entertaiment

   By John KariuķiKiambu Woman Representative Ann Wamuratha has rolled out a transformative initiative to support education and empower small businesses in Kiambu East. Speaking during an event held at her office grounds in Kiambu, Wamuratha emphasized her commitment to improving lives through practical, grassroots solutions.Through the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF), bursaries and scholarships were awarded to students from Thika, Gatundu South, Gatundu North, Juja, Ruiru, and Kiambu. This initiative aims to ease the burden of education costs while opening doors for young people to pursue their dreams.At the same event, local businesses received essential tools to enhance their operations. Items such as umbrellas, blow dryers, hair dryers, helmets, bodaboda canopies, and trolleys for egg and sausage vendors were distributed to beneficiaries. Wamuratha described this support as “rain on dry land,” signifying its potential to help individuals grow and create better opportunities for themselves.The initiative underscores Wamuratha’s vision of fostering self-reliance and community growth. By addressing both education and economic empowerment, she seeks to lay a strong foundation for sustainable development in Kiambu County.The event, attended by community members and local leaders, showcased the tangible impact of NGAAF-funded projects. Wamuratha expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and reaffirmed her dedication to uplifting the lives of Kiambu residents.This program has sparked hope and enthusiasm among beneficiaries, reflecting the potential of grassroots efforts to transform communities and drive progress.  Read More 

   By John KariukiComfort Homes, a leading name in Kenya’s real estate sector, has been consistently recognized as the most affordable land-selling company in the country. Under the wise leadership of Managing Director and CEO Dr. Hezekiah Kariuki, the company continues to set the standard for excellence in the property market. On a bright Tuesday morning, Dr. Kariuki shared valuable tips on the proper procedures for buying land in Kenya for 2024/2025.The first step in buying land is visiting the physical location of the property. If you’re abroad, ensure a trusted and reliable representative visits on your behalf. Physically inspecting the land allows you to familiarize yourself with the property and confirm its existence. With the help of a registered surveyor, identify the beacons and ensure the land’s boundaries are accurately measured.Request the land’s title deed or mutation form, ensuring it is registered with the Land Survey Department. Use the title deed to fill out an official search application on the Ardhisasa platform. Attach copies of your ID, KRA PIN, and pay the search fee. Submit the application to the relevant lands registry office where the property is located. For example, if the land is in Nyeri, submit the forms to Nyeri Lands Registry.The search certificate will provide information on the true owner of the land, the land’s size, the land registrar’s signature and seal, and registration details from the land’s green card. Ensure the names on the search certificate match the title deed. If satisfied, proceed to purchase a map or mutation form from the land survey office. The map confirms the land’s existence and whether it’s public, community, or restricted land.After verifying the land documents, arrange a meeting with the seller, a lawyer, and a witness. The lawyer will draft a sale agreement, ensuring both parties agree on the terms. Keep copies of the sale agreement, search certificate, map, and receipts.The Land Control Board is a crucial step where the buyer and seller meet government officials to approve the land transfer. The board convenes once a month, and the parties must book a session in advance. Once approved, the consent document authorizes the seller to transfer the land to the buyer.Both the buyer and seller must prepare copies of their ID or passport, KRA PIN certificates, and colored passport photos. The “Transfer of Interest in Land” document is then filled out. This vital form, detailing the buyer and seller’s information, is submitted to the lands registry for the new title deed issuance.The land undergoes valuation to determine the stamp duty payable, typically covered by the buyer. The stamp duty fee varies by location and is paid via the Ardhisasa platform. Attach the title deed copy, buyer and seller IDs and KRA PINs, transfer forms, valuation forms, and registration forms. Submit the documents and pay the new title deed registration fees. Once all paperwork is complete, submit it to the lands registry for processing.The new title deed can take 2-3 months to process. Any errors or missing documents may result in rejection, so ensure everything is in order. Avoid shortcuts and follow all legal procedures to safeguard your investment.Buying land is a process, not an event. Always consult relevant government offices and seek guidance from professionals to avoid pitfalls. Dr. Hezekiah Kariuki emphasizes that informed decisions and due diligence are the keys to successful land ownership.  Read More 

   By John KariukiThe Kenya Leather Development Council (KLDC), under the visionary leadership of Chief Executive Officer Dr. Issak Noor, is spearheading efforts to position Kenya’s leather industry as a key driver of the country’s economic growth. Through strategic initiatives aimed at value addition and manufacturing, KLDC is working to elevate the sector’s contribution to Kenya’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).On Monday, Dr. Noor joined Deputy President Kithure Kindiki in an inspection tour of the Kenya Leather Industrial Park (KLIP) in Kenanie, Machakos County. The park is a flagship government project designed to enhance leather processing and manufacturing capacity.The KLDC envisions transformative outcomes for the leather industry, with projections to increase the sector’s annual contribution from the current KSh 15 billion to KSh 175 billion. Additionally, job opportunities in the industry are expected to rise significantly, from 17,000 to 100,000.Kenya’s economic transformation hinges on the growth of value addition and manufacturing across key sectors. In line with this vision, the government has made substantial progress in developing KLIP’s infrastructure. A state-of-the-art common user effluent treatment plant has been completed to ensure efficient water treatment for leather manufacturing. This facility will also serve Export Processing Zone (EPZ) factories along Mombasa Road and Athi River, as well as the leather factories within KLIP.Furthermore, four warehouses have been constructed—two dedicated to turning raw hides and skins into leather and two for manufacturing finished leather products. Ongoing infrastructure work includes the installation of electricity and water systems and the deployment of permanent security services to ensure smooth operations.During the visit, Dr. Noor and the Deputy President assessed the progress of ongoing works and outlined the remaining deliverables to ensure compliance with the Presidential directive for completion by March 31, 2025. The expedited completion of KLIP is expected to catalyze Kenya’s journey toward industrialization and global competitiveness in the leather industry.KLDC’s unwavering commitment to boosting the leather industry reflects its dedication to driving Kenya’s economic growth and improving livelihoods across the country. With the completion of KLIP, the leather sector is set to become a cornerstone of Kenya’s manufacturing agenda, unlocking unprecedented opportunities for value addition, job creation, and sustainable development.  Read More 

   By John Kariuki Hon. John Kiragu, the Member of Parliament for Limuru Constituency, has once again demonstrated his dedication to education by commissioning 15 newly renovated classrooms at Limuru Mission Comprehensive School in Limuru East Ward. This transformative project, funded by the Limuru NG-CDF under his leadership, aims to create a more conducive learning environment for both students and teachers.The renovations, designed to address long-standing infrastructural challenges, involved extensive work on the school’s floors, walls, and overall aesthetics. Worn-out floors and corridors were retiled, internal and external walls were plastered, and fresh painting brightened the entire school. Additionally, broken window panes were replaced, and wooden doors were upgraded to more durable metallic ones. The water harvesting and drainage systems were enhanced to ensure sustainability, and roofing repairs will be completed during the upcoming school holidays.Hon. Kiragu also announced the successful completion of a borehole at the school. This critical project will not only benefit the school community but also provide a reliable water source for the surrounding neighborhood.Speaking during the event, Hon. Kiragu underscored the importance of education as a foundation for community development. “These efforts reflect our unwavering commitment to providing a conducive learning environment for our future leaders. Education is the cornerstone of progress, and it is our duty to invest in our schools and children,” he said.The event was attended by notable guests, including members of the Limuru NG-CDF committee, Hon. Pacifica Ongecha (Kiambu Nominated MCA), Rose Kimani (Limuru Sub-County TSC Director), Madam Frashia (Quality Assurance Officer), Father Peter Kiguru, and representatives of the Limuru Mission fraternity.Hon. Kiragu’s initiative has been widely praised as an example of effective leadership and strategic use of public funds to address critical community needs. The renovated classrooms are expected to significantly enhance the teaching and learning experience, providing a safer, modern, and welcoming environment that inspires students to excel.As the roofing work progresses and the borehole begins to serve the community, residents of Limuru look forward to more impactful projects under Hon. Kiragu’s stewardship. His commitment to education and community development continues to set a high standard for leadership in the constituency.  Read More 

   
Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has issued a stern warning to the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB), demanding that the agency immediately disburse funds to students or risk facing serious consequences from the frustrated student population.
In a fiery statement made today, Babu Owino, a staunch ally of student welfare, accused the government of neglecting the needs of university and college students across the country by failing to release their HELB loans on time. This delay, Owino argues, has left thousands of students struggling to pay for their tuition fees, accommodation, and basic necessities.
“The students are angry, and I understand their frustration,” Owino declared, speaking to reporters outside Parliament. “HELB must release the money to comrades, and they must do it now! If they don’t, they will have to answer to the students—because the wrath of the comrades is not something they should take lightly.”
The outspoken MP emphasized that the failure of HELB to disburse loans on time has placed a heavy burden on students, many of whom rely on the funds to continue their education. The government’s repeated delays, he said, have exacerbated the already difficult situation that many students face, including mounting rent arrears, unpaid tuition fees, and limited access to essential learning materials.
“It is an embarrassment that students who are supposed to be the future of this country are being treated with such disdain,” Owino added. “The government is forcing them to choose between continuing their education or facing the harsh reality of being evicted from their hostels or homes. This is unacceptable, and it cannot continue.”
Owino’s comments come amid rising tensions on university campuses, with several student unions staging protests to demand the timely release of funds. Many students have been forced to skip classes, as they cannot afford the necessary resources to stay enrolled in their programs.
The Embakasi East MP, who is known for his fiery rhetoric and strong support for student causes, warned that if the government fails to act quickly, there will be consequences.
“Let me make it very clear,” Owino said, his tone firm. “If HELB does not release the money within the next few days, students will have no choice but to take matters into their own hands. If that happens, I will stand with them. We will not allow this government to abandon the very people who are supposed to be shaping the future of this country.”
He went on to describe how a united student front could mobilize mass action to hold the government accountable, should the delays continue. “Comrades are not afraid to make their voices heard, and if it comes to that, the government will have to deal with the consequences.”
The MP also emphasized that the current situation was a reflection of broader systemic failures within the education sector, which has long struggled with inadequate funding, mismanagement, and a lack of focus on the needs of students. He urged the government to prioritize education, stating that it was a national security issue, as the future of the country depended on the empowerment and education of its youth.
Owino’s remarks have ignited a fresh debate on social media and across university campuses, where many students are voicing their support for the MP’s call to action. Student leaders have echoed his sentiment, organizing rallies and petitions to demand immediate payment of HELB loans.
“This is not just about money,” Owino concluded. “It is about the future of this nation. If we cannot even ensure that our students are supported, then what hope do we have for our future?”
As the pressure mounts on the government and HELB to release the funds, all eyes are now on whether action will be taken before the situation spirals further. With the anger of Kenya’s student population reaching a boiling point, it remains to be seen how the authorities will respond to Babu Owino’s bold ultimatum.  Read More 

  Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka has urged the national government to ensure that subsidized fertilizer is delivered to NCPB depots on time ahead of the upcoming planting season.Speaking at the Eldoret NCPB depot in his capacity as the Chair of Agriculture in the Council of Governors (CoG), Lusaka emphasized the importance of timeliness in farming. He warned that delays in fertilizer distribution could undermine farmers’ efforts and compromise harvests.”Farming is all about timing. We cannot afford a scenario where planting fertilizer arrives when crops are already being weeded,” Lusaka stated.The Governor further called for strict adherence to quality and quantity standards, noting that past incidents of poor-quality fertilizer and even stones being sold to farmers had eroded trust.Lusaka also criticized the perennial shortage of fertilizer, which has often led to chaotic scenes of farmers scrambling for limited supplies. He reiterated the Governors’ earlier proposal for counties to manage fertilizer procurement through conditional grants from the national government, a plan that was rejected.”The national government must prioritize listening to farmers because they know what works best for them,” he added.The Governor also encouraged farmers to explore agribusiness opportunities and diversify their farming practices to maximize profits.In response, Agriculture Principal Secretary Dr. Paul Rono assured farmers that sufficient fertilizer stocks were already available in NCPB depots for both the short and long planting seasons. He urged farmers to begin purchasing fertilizer early to prepare for the next season.Dr. Rono’s reassurance comes as farmers brace for the critical planting period, with timely support expected to enhance agricultural productivity and food security across the country.  Read More 

  In a passionate statement, Governor George Natembeya has called for urgent action from President William Ruto to tackle the increasing incidents of abductions in the country, urging the government to take full responsibility for the safety of its citizens.
The escalating cases of abductions in Kenya have left many citizens in fear, as families and communities continue to grapple with the trauma of missing persons and violent kidnappings. Governor George Natembeya, known for his outspoken nature and commitment to the welfare of Kenyans, has demanded that the President take immediate steps to address the worsening crisis.
“Something is deeply wrong with this country when families cannot walk the streets, send their children to school, or even rest at night without the fear of abduction looming over them,” Governor Natembeya said, his voice full of concern. “The abductions are not just criminal acts, but a direct attack on the dignity and rights of every Kenyan.”
The governor went on to emphasize that the responsibility for ensuring the security of citizens lies squarely with the government, and more specifically, with the President as the head of state. He pointed out that while the police have a role to play in maintaining order, the ultimate responsibility for the safety of Kenyans must be owned by the leadership at the top.
“The President cannot evade responsibility for the growing wave of abductions,” Natembeya continued. “He is entrusted with the duty to protect Kenyans and their property. The power of the office he holds is not merely ceremonial; it is the authority that should ensure every Kenyan feels safe in their own country.”
In his statement, Governor Natembeya also called for immediate policy changes and stronger enforcement of the law to prevent future kidnappings. He argued that the government must take swift and decisive action to dismantle the criminal networks responsible for abductions and provide justice for victims and their families.
“Kenya is not a country where lawlessness should thrive. We need a national strategy to combat this growing menace and make it clear that such criminal acts will not be tolerated,” he said. “The victims of these abductions deserve justice, and their families deserve closure.”
The Governor’s comments come at a time when various parts of the country have been grappling with a surge in abduction cases, with many victims being held for ransom or subjected to other violent criminal acts. Despite the alarm raised by the public, little has been done to address the root causes or apprehend the perpetrators of these heinous acts.
Governor Natembeya also emphasized that the abductions were not isolated incidents but a broader symptom of the challenges facing Kenya’s justice and security systems. He expressed concern that these crimes are eroding trust in the government’s ability to protect its people.
“We are witnessing a breakdown of law and order, and if we do not act now, the consequences will be dire. It is time for the President to step forward with a clear plan and show leadership in confronting this issue head-on,” Natembeya concluded.
As the nation continues to watch the unfolding crisis, many are hoping that the President and his government will heed the call for immediate action. The governor’s statement serves as a stark reminder of the need for comprehensive reforms in security, justice, and accountability to ensure that Kenya remains a place where its citizens can live without fear of abduction or violence.  Read More 

  The bitter succession battle for the late Uasin Gishu tycoon Jackson Kibor’s Sh16 billion estate has erupted into chaos, as his surviving widows and their 29 children clash with his youngest wife, Eunita Kibor, over the control of the tycoon’s assets.
Tensions reached a boiling point recently when a group of Kibor’s children, led by his son Albert Kibor, stormed the family’s commercial property in Eldoret, located at the bustling main bus stage. The family members, armed with legal documents, forcibly began evicting tenants, accusing them of paying rent into an account controlled by their stepmother, Eunita.
More than 100 traders operating in the multi-million-shilling building were caught off guard and rushed to close their businesses in fear. Albert and his supporters claim they were simply enforcing a court order requiring rental income to be deposited into a joint family account, ensuring fair distribution of the funds.
“We will not allow you to continue operating from this property unless you follow the court’s directive,” Albert told one of the tenants. “Our late father intended that the rental proceeds be shared equally among the family, not funneled into one person’s account.”
Albert, accompanied by his granddaughter, was adamant that the tenants were complicit in funneling over Sh100 million in rent to Eunita, depriving the rest of the family. “Since Mzee passed away four years ago, not a single cent has been given to the family from this property’s income,” Albert fumed.
In response, Eunita Kibor defended her actions, insisting that her late husband had specifically allocated the property to her and their four children. She explained that she was merely acting as a trustee, ensuring the money supported the education and welfare of her children.
“The property was left to my children, and I’m simply managing it as per Mzee’s instructions. I am the rightful owner, and I will not tolerate any interference,” Eunita declared, standing firm against her stepchildren.
The explosive confrontation escalated quickly, drawing the attention of local authorities. A team of anti-riot police were deployed to the scene to restore order. Albert was arrested and briefly detained at the Eldoret Central Police Station, where he was later released on a Sh10,000 bail.
Outside the police station, Albert condemned the police intervention, vowing to continue his fight for what he believes is rightfully his. “They think this bail will stop me, but I will fight for this property, no matter what,” he declared defiantly. “I’ve been warned, but this isn’t over.”
The controversy stems from an ongoing court case regarding the will left behind by Jackson Kibor. The will, which Eunita claims designates her as the sole trustee of the property, is being contested by other family members, including Kibor’s second and third wives, who allege that the will is a forgery.
Lawyer Jonah Korir, who drafted the will, testified in court that the deceased was of sound mind when he instructed him on the distribution of his assets. Korir, who was present at the signing of the will, emphasized that the document was witnessed by two other lawyers and executed properly.
Despite this, the family remains divided, with allegations of mental incapacity and fraud casting a shadow over the tycoon’s final wishes. The legal battle is expected to continue, with the Kibor family locked in a fierce struggle that could have major consequences for their multi-billion-shilling fortune.
As the court case progresses, it remains unclear who will ultimately emerge victorious in this high-stakes family feud. What is certain, however, is that the legacy of Jackson Kibor is now mired in controversy, with his children and wives fighting over every last shilling of his vast fortune.  Read More