Life Hacks

   By John KariukiIn the true spirit of Christmas, Rockey Africa Limited, in collaboration with Jabali Joycare, brought joy and warmth to the elderly residents of Thika Municipality by hosting a memorable Elderly’s Day Out. The event, held at the scenic Thika Greens Golf Course along Old Murang’a Road, was a celebration of senior citizens and a meaningful conclusion to the year.Over 100 elderly residents attended the event, which featured a variety of activities designed to uplift and honor them. From free health checkups and personalized wellness packages to storytelling, traditional music, and light exercise sessions, the day was filled with love and care. Participants also enjoyed interactive games and a communal lunch that fostered unity and festive cheer.Robert Kamau, CEO of Rockey Africa Limited, reflected on the importance of the initiative, saying, “This Christmas season, we wanted to make the elderly feel appreciated and cherished. Spending the day with them was a privilege, spreading joy and creating moments they’ll remember for years.”Jabali Joycare, a community organization specializing in counseling and home-based care, played a pivotal role in the event’s success. Its founder, Joyce Jabali, shared her thoughts, saying, “Our elders hold the stories and wisdom of our communities. This event allowed us to show appreciation for their legacy while giving them a day filled with happiness and care.”The attendees expressed immense gratitude, with one participant, Mzee John, remarking, “It feels wonderful to be celebrated like this. I thank the Rockey Africa Foundation and Jabali Joycare for their kindness. It has truly been a joyful day.”This event is part of the Rockey Africa Foundation’s broader commitment to addressing societal needs and creating positive impacts within communities. Through strategic partnerships, the foundation continues to spread compassion and support to those who need it most.  Read More 

   Bungoma, Kenya – The bereaved family of Mzee Dominique Khaemba Wetang’ula has expressed deep appreciation for the overwhelming support and condolences following the passing of their matriarch, Mama Annah Nanyama Wetang’ula. The family, led by Bungoma Senator Moses Wetangula, acknowledged the presence of numerous dignitaries who attended the memorial mass held today in honor of their beloved mother.In a heartfelt message delivered on behalf of the family, Senator Wetangula extended sincere gratitude to senior national and county officials, political leaders, and community members who took part in the ceremony. “We are deeply moved by the outpouring of sympathy, encouragement, and support during this difficult time,” said Wetangula.Among the distinguished leaders who attended the memorial service were the Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport, Mr. Davis Chirchir, Kakamega Governor H.E. Fernandes Barasa, and several Principal Secretaries including Mr. Chris Kiptoo (National Treasury), Amb. Julius Bitok (Immigration and Citizen Services), Eng. Joseph Mbugua (Roads), and Mr. Harry Kimtai (Medical Services).Also in attendance were key political figures, including Bungoma Senator Hon. Wafula Wakoli, and Members of Parliament Hon. Dr. John Chikati (Tongaren), Hon. Innocent Mugabe (Likuyani), Hon. Didmus Barasa (Kimilili), and Hon. Majimbo Kalasinga (Kabuchai). Deputy Governors H.E. Janepher Mbatiany (Bungoma) and Wilberforce Kitiezo (Vihiga), as well as former Bumula MP Hon. Mwambu Mabonga, were also present to show solidarity with the Wetang’ula family.In his remarks, Wetangula expressed how much it meant to the family to be surrounded by such a supportive group of leaders and citizens. “Mama Annah was a strong pillar for our family and our community, and her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched. We are forever grateful for the kindness and support we’ve received from all corners,” he said.The event was a somber yet celebratory occasion, honoring the life of Mama Annah, whose contributions to her family and the community are remembered fondly.  Read More 

    Thanksgiving Prayer Service in Shamata, Nyandarua, was abruptly interrupted by a shocking act of police aggression on [date], as a uniformed police Inspector handed a teargas canister to an officer in plain clothes, who then threw it into the VIP tent, sparking panic among attendees.
The service, which was initially peaceful and calm, saw the unprovoked attack unfold in front of hundreds of mourners, despite the presence of police officers purportedly deployed for security. The act of violence left many in the crowd terrified, yet the prayers continued, thanks to the remarkable courage of the community.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua condemned the incident, accusing the National Police Service of engaging in illegal and politically motivated actions. In a statement, Gachagua expressed his disappointment, highlighting that this was another example of police misuse in a pattern of recent violence, including extrajudicial killings and abductions.
“I want to acknowledge the bravery of those who ensured the prayers continued despite this attack,” Gachagua said. “It is deeply shameful that the police, who are meant to protect the people, are instead being used as tools for political intimidation.”
Local residents of Shamata played a crucial role in protecting the service attendees, ensuring the safety of women and children, and escorting the attackers out of the event. Their actions were praised by Gachagua, who commended the community for taking charge in the face of police violence.
The incident has raised alarm over the growing politicization of the National Police Service, with many questioning the motives behind such attacks. Gachagua called on President William Ruto to ensure that no amount of intimidation would deter Kenyans from demanding accountability, good governance, and respect for democracy.
“The Kenyan people will not be silenced by violence,” Gachagua declared, urging the government to restore the integrity of the police force and protect citizens’ right to peaceful assembly.  Read More 

   
Horticultural farmers in Elgeyo Marakwet County are set to benefit from a state-of-the-art pack house that aims to address long-standing challenges in produce handling and marketing. The facility, located at Kombabelio in Kapchemutwa Ward, was officially inaugurated in a ceremony attended by local leaders and stakeholders.
The pack house, constructed in partnership with Farm Africa, a leading charity supporting smallholder farmers, is a 15-tonne capacity facility designed to help farmers increase packaging efficiency and improve the marketability of their produce. It features a cold room and a Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) center, ensuring that the produce meets international standards.
For years, farmers in the region, particularly those growing snowpeas, sugar snaps, and French beans, have faced difficulties in reaching local and international markets due to poor handling, storage, and transportation conditions. The new pack house will eliminate the need for farmers to wait for refrigerated lorries to collect their crops, reducing post-harvest losses and enabling timely transportation to markets.
During the event, Farm Africa’s Country Programmes Manager, Mr. George Ochuodo, expressed optimism about the impact of the pack house on local farming communities. “This facility will empower smallholder farmers, improve the quality of their produce, and open doors to larger, more lucrative markets,” Ochuodo said.
Also present at the inauguration were County Commissioner John Korir, Kapchemutwa Ward MCA Steve Cheruiyot, Kenya Horticultural Exporters’ representative Dickson Kimathi, and various county officials including CECs Edwin Kibor and Thomas Maiyo, COs Elizabeth Korir and Edwin Komen, and staff from the Agriculture Department.
The establishment of the pack house is seen as a critical step towards enhancing the region’s agricultural sector, improving livelihoods for farmers, and fostering economic growth in Elgeyo Marakwet County.  Read More 

  By Wasike Elvis Uasin Gishu County Governor, Jonathan Bii Chelilim, has dismissed a false report circulating on social media, which wrongly claims that he used inappropriate language to describe the youth. The misleading report, which includes an image of the governor, has raised concerns among residents and is being described as a deliberate attempt to tarnish his reputation.In a statement, the Governor’s office urged the public to disregard the baseless claims and advised residents to rely only on verified sources for information. The office emphasized that such falsehoods are part of a broader attempt to mislead the public and undermine the governor’s leadership.Governor Bii, known for his dedication to public service, continues to prioritize the well-being of the youth in Uasin Gishu, focusing on policies and initiatives aimed at empowering young people in the region.The public has been urged to stay vigilant against the spread of fake news and to report any misleading information that could harm individuals’ reputations. Governor Jonathan Bii Chelilim remains committed to serving the people of Uasin Gishu with integrity, respect, and transparency. Residents are encouraged to disregard the circulating falsehood and continue supporting the Governor’s vision for the county’s growth and development.  Read More