Ruto Appoints Habil Olaka as Chairperson of Hustler Fund

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February 23, 2025

President William Ruto has appointed Dr. Habil Olaka as the new Non-Executive Chairperson of the Advisory Board of the Financial Inclusion Fund. Olaka, the former Chief Executive Officer of the Kenya Bankers Association (KBA), will serve a three-year term, effective February 21, 2025.

The appointment was announced through a gazette notice dated February 21, in which President Ruto exercised his powers under Regulation 10 (1) (a) of the Public Finance Management (Financial Inclusion Fund) Regulations and Section 51 (1) of the Interpretation and General Provisions Act.

Olaka takes over from Irene Muthoni Metha Karimi, whose appointment has been revoked. Karimi was appointed in January 2023 when President Ruto launched the Hustler Fund and was initially set to serve a three-year term.

Olaka brings extensive experience in the financial sector, having served as KBA’s CEO from 2010 until his retirement in March 2024. During his tenure, he played a significant role in shaping Kenya’s banking policies and promoting financial sector advocacy.

Meanwhile, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has revoked the appointment of Dr. Christopher Langat as a board member of the Commission for University Education (CUE). Langat’s removal was also announced through a gazette notice dated February 21, citing Section 6 (1) (d) of the Universities Act, 2012, and Section 51 (1) of the Interpretation and General Provisions Act.

These changes signal a continued restructuring within key government institutions as President Ruto’s administration pushes forward with its agenda. The appointment of Olaka is expected to bring a wealth of expertise to the Financial Inclusion Fund, which plays a critical role in advancing financial access for Kenyans, particularly small-scale entrepreneurs and underserved communities.

Bruno Fernandes Calls for Higher Standards In Man United

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Gerald Gekara

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February 23, 2025

Manchester United’s struggles continued at Goodison Park, with the Red Devils only salvaging a point thanks to Bruno Fernandes’ stunning free-kick and a late Manuel Ugarte strike.

Yet, despite the comeback, Fernandes made it clear after the match that United’s players must demand more from themselves.

It was another performance that highlighted both the best and worst of Erik ten Hag’s team. A slow, uninspiring first half saw United fall 2-0 behind, looking devoid of intensity and ideas. If not for Fernandes’ brilliance and Ugarte’s opportunism, the night could have ended in yet another damaging defeat.

United were fortunate to escape with a point, especially after VAR controversially overturned a late penalty decision in Everton’s favor. But rather than dwell on that, Fernandes turned the focus inward, acknowledging that the current situation is far from acceptable.

Fernandes’ words were pointed and necessary. “We need to be aware that the position we’re in is not the best, it’s not where the club needs to be. We need to demand more from ourselves,” he stated post-match.

This was not just a captain’s rallying cry but a stark admission of where United find themselves. Once a club that set the standard in English football, United now appear adrift, struggling for consistency and identity. Fernandes’ statement is a challenge to his teammates: step up or continue to sink into irrelevance.

A Wake-Up Call for United

The second-half improvement against Everton showed that United can fight when they need to—but why does it take a crisis to spark a reaction? As Fernandes noted, the freedom to play only seemed to emerge once the team was trailing. That mentality is not sustainable for a club with United’s ambitions.

Every game from here on out is crucial, not just for the team’s league position but for the future of several players and possibly the manager. With every setback, the pressure grows, and Fernandes’ leadership will be vital in ensuring that performances rise to meet expectations.

JKIA Named African Cargo Airport of the Year 2024 at STAT Times Awards

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Editor

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February 22, 2025

The STAT Times International Awards for Excellence in Air Cargo have named Kenya’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) the African Cargo Airport of the Year for 2024. The prestigious award was given during a gala dinner in Nairobi on Thursday.

The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) attributed the award to JKIA’s strategic location and strong infrastructure, which have established it as a key hub in Africa’s rapidly expanding air cargo industry. This expansion is being fuelled in part by initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which has increased intra-African trade by 25% and transportation demand by 50%.

JKIA’s recognition emphasises its status as one of Africa’s busiest and most efficient cargo hubs.

According to KAA data, the airport handled 112,000 tonnes of cargo in just the first quarter of 2024, demonstrating its importance in regional and international trade.

Notably, JKIA plays an important role in handling high-value exports such as fresh produce, pharmaceuticals, and speciality goods, which account for 80% of Africa’s air cargo exports.

During the ceremony, Dr. Rose Koros, JKIA’s General Manager, expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasising the airport’s critical role in facilitating trade and logistics across the continent. She emphasised the airport’s ongoing commitment to operational excellence and continuous improvement of cargo handling capabilities.

Agriculture CS Mutahi Kagwe Calls for Harsh Penalties Against Fake Seed and Fertilizer Seller

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Editor

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February 22, 2025

Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has proposed a minimum 10-year prison sentence for those found guilty of selling counterfeit seeds and fertilisers to farmers.

Speaking on Friday, February 21, Kagwe urged Members of Parliament to draft new legislation to impose this harsher penalty, emphasising that no fines should be allowed for those found guilty of selling counterfeit agricultural products.

Kagwe emphasised that the issue is one of national security, and that any action undermining the country’s agriculture system, which is critical to food security, should result in severe consequences.

“Currently, individuals caught with counterfeit seeds and fertilizers often face only minor charges. However, these actions are an attack on our economy. In my view, we must strengthen the punishment, imposing a jail sentence of at least 10 years with no option for a fine,” said Kagwe.

The CS’s proposal highlights the growing concern over the impact of fake agricultural inputs on the nation’s food production and economy.

Starlets Squander Chances in Goalless Draw with Tunisia in WAFCON Qualifier

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Editor

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February 22, 2025

Tunisia held Harambee Starlets to a goalless draw in their WAFCON 2026 qualifier on Friday at the Ulinzi Sports Complex, squandering several opportunities to secure a crucial victory.

Despite dominating possession, Kenya failed to convert their opportunities, leaving them disappointed in their quest for a second WAFCON appearance after their debut in 2016.

Mwanalima Adam had Kenya’s best chances but was unable to score. Tunisia, preparing for this year’s WAFCON, posed some early threats but later took a more defensive stance, employing tenacious defence and time-wasting tactics to frustrate the Starlets.

With the draw, the Starlets extended their 19-year unbeaten streak in home WAFCON qualifiers, but they now face a daunting task in the away leg scheduled for Wednesday, February 26, 2025.

Kenya’s coach, Beldine Odemba, used a 4-3-3 formation, with Lilian Awuor starting in goal instead of Annedy Kundu. Dorcas Sikobe captained the team as centre-back, partnered by Ruth Ingosi, while Enez Mango and Jane Mumo played fullback. Corazone Aquino and Lavender Akinyi formed a double pivot behind Fasila Odhiambo, who provided support for Adam, Cynthia Shilwatso, and Elizabeth Wambui.

Starlets came out strong, creating several early opportunities. Adam’s shot went just over the bar in the first minute, and Akinyi’s lob from midfield worried Tunisian custodian Zohara Jelassi. A few moments later, Shilwatso flicked Wambui’s cross into Adam’s path, but her acrobatic volley went wide.

Tunisia quickly settled into the game and started to threaten. Despite Kenya’s early dominance, sloppy passing allowed Tunisia to exploit gaps, forcing Awuor into a save from Ella Kaabachi in the 25th minute. Salma Zemzem also came close, hitting the side netting in the 29th minute.

The Starlets continued to create opportunities, but lacked composure in front of goal. Odhiambo squandered a one-on-one opportunity, and Mumo’s determined run ended with a weak shot directly at Jelassi. In the 41st minute, Adam found Aquino in the box, but her shot was deflected into the goalkeeper’s hands.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with Kenya maintaining possession but unable to penetrate Tunisia’s strong defence. Adam’s weak shot in the 47th minute was easily saved, and Kenya resorted to long-range attempts that missed the mark. Aquino remained Kenya’s most dynamic midfielder, intercepting passes and driving forward, despite committing a foul in the 67th minute.

In the 78th minute, Kenya’s penalty appeal was denied after Jelassi collided with Adam in the box. The Starlets pushed for a breakthrough in the final 10 minutes, causing even more frustration. Adam headed narrowly wide in the 88th minute, and in stoppage time, Ingosi missed Adam’s well-placed cross, while Sikobe shot wide after cutting inside from the right.

Tunisia held firm to earn a hard-fought draw, giving Kenya everything to play for in the second leg. The Starlets now need a positive result away to keep their chances of qualifying for the 2026 WAFCON alive.

A win would propel them to the final round, where they would face either Gambia or Niger, with Gambia leading 2-0 after the first leg.

Raila Odinga Sends Heartfelt Condolences to the Family of Late Wafula Chebukati

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Editor

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February 22, 2025

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has sent his heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Wafula Chebukati, former Chairman of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).

Chebukati, 63, died on Thursday, February 20, while being treated at a Nairobi hospital.

In his message of sympathy, Raila expressed his sorrow over the loss of Chebukati, describing him as a beloved “son, father, husband, and breadwinner.” He acknowledged the difficulty of such times, noting that while words and expressions of solidarity may never fully fill the void left by his passing, they were offered in support.

“My thoughts are with the entire family, the widow Mama Mary, and sons Jonathan and Emmanuel during this trying time,” Raila said, sharing his condolences with the grieving family.

Government to Buy Land from Absentee Landlords to Resettle Coast Squatters

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Gerald Gekara

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February 21, 2025

The government will purchase land from absentee landlords to resettle squatters at the Coast, President William Ruto has announced.

Speaking at the funeral of Mzee Kingi Mwaruwa Mkweha, father of Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, in Magarini Constituency, Kilifi County, the President affirmed that funds have been set aside for compensating legitimate absentee landlords.

“I have tasked Senate Speaker Amason Kingi and Cabinet Secretaries Alice Wahome (Lands), Hassan Joho (Mining), and Salim Mvurya (Sports) with identifying and vetting genuine absentee landlords for compensation,” said President Ruto.

The move is part of efforts to resolve historical land injustices that have left thousands of Coast residents without land ownership documents. The President acknowledged that the process will take time but assured squatters that his administration is committed to delivering on this promise.

“It will not be completed in one or two years, but we will ensure we largely solve the squatter problem at the Coast,” he emphasized.

Additionally, he assured squatters in Kilifi that the government is working to resolve ownership disputes over African Development Corporation (ADC) land in Magarini. He confirmed that affected individuals will receive title deeds later this year.

The event was attended by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, and Governors Gideon Mung’aro (Kilifi), Issa Timamy (Lamu), and Abdulswamad Shariff (Mombasa).

President Ruto also announced a week-long tour of development projects across the Coast region, covering Lamu, Tana River, Kwale, Kilifi, Mombasa, and Taita-Taveta counties.

IOC and TCL Announce Long-term Global Partnership through to 2032

By

Gerald Gekara

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February 21, 2025

International Olympic Committee (IOC) yesterday announced a Worldwide Olympic Partnership with global technology company TCL through to 2032.

TCL will be the official Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partner in the Home Audiovisual Equipment and Home Appliances category.

TCL products will drive new experiences for fans and athletes, from digital displays at the Olympic and Paralympic to household appliances in the Olympic Village.

Through this new partnership, the organisations will also work together to bring the magic of the Olympic and Paralympic to billions of fans around the world through innovative marketing campaigns.

TCL will play an important role as the IOC progresses its Olympic AI Agenda – including supporting fan and athlete experiences on site and at home.

TCL will also support the “Athlete Moments” initiative at the Olympic Games, which allows athletes to connect with loved ones around the world immediately after their competition.

As a result of the agreement, the IOC will redistribute the revenue it receives to provide financial support to sports organisations around the world, including every National Olympic Committee and their athletes, plus the Organising Committees for the Olympic Games and Youth Olympic Games until 2032.

At an announcement ceremony held in Beijing, China, in the iconic “Water Cube” (Beijing 2008) / “Ice Cube” (Beijing 2022) venue, IOC President Thomas Bach said:

“The IOC is excited to announce its new partnership with TCL, a world leader in the television and household goods industries. TCL has a long history of supporting sport around the world, and is now taking its ambition to inspire greatness to new heights, as the Olympic Games are the greatest, most inspirational global sporting stage.”

Li Dongsheng, Founder and Chairman of TCL, said:

“We are honoured to become a Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partner. As a leading global technology brand, TCL has always striven to ‘Inspire Greatness’, which aligns with the Olympic spirit. The Olympic Games inspire billions of people around the world, and through this partnership TCL’s diverse innovations will empower the Olympic Games and deliver exceptional experiences to a global audience. TCL will continue to fulfil its corporate social responsibility, support the Olympic sustainable development goals, and create a better future.”

TCL has supported sports around the world for decades through multiple partnerships. At the Olympic and Paralympic, TCL will enable new visual and lifestyle experiences by providing a range of intelligent innovations, including smart displays, air conditioners, refrigerators, washing machines, door locks, audio systems, projectors and TCL RayNeo smart glasses.

Founded in 1981, TCL is committed to “Building a Sustainable and Connected Future with Advanced Technology”, dedicated to empowering a smart, healthy lifestyle by enabling next-generation intelligent experiences.

With 46 R&D centres and 38 manufacturing bases around the world, TCL operates in over 160 countries and regions, cementing its position as a globally competitive technology brand.

Jiří Kejval, Chair of the IOC Revenues and Commercial Partnerships Commission, said:

“TCL is a global leader in its industry and is one of the world’s fastest growing brands. The TOP Programme continues to offer the world’s leading brands and marketeers an unparalleled marketing platform built on the global reach and values of the Olympic Games. Testament to this is today’s announcement, as we bring TCL to the family of TOP Partners.”

Kalonzo Begs Raila: Ditch Ruto, Join Us to Topple Kenya Kwanza in 2027

By

Gerald Gekara

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February 21, 2025

Wiper Democratic Movement leader Kalonzo Musyoka has issued an impassioned call to his long-time ally, Raila Odinga, to abandon President William Ruto’s embattled government and reclaim his mantle as Kenya’s opposition titan ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Speaking after a high-profile meeting with impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and DAP-Kenya’s Eugene Wamalwa at a Nairobi hotel on February 20, Musyoka painted Odinga a stark choice: join a resurgent opposition coalition or risk squandering his democratic legacy by propping up a “dictatorial” Kenya Kwanza regime.

The meeting, a clear signal of Musyoka’s intent to consolidate opposition forces, comes as Ruto’s administration grapples with mounting public discontent over taxation, corruption scandals, and a faltering economy.

Musyoka, who declared his candidacy for 2027 “or earlier,” accused Ruto of sabotaging Odinga’s recent bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship—a loss he claimed left the ODM leader at a crossroads.

“Ruto cost Raila the AUC seat,” Musyoka charged, alleging the President’s duplicity in supporting a rival candidate. “Now, he wishes to use him as a lifeline to his sinking ship.”

A New Opposition Axis Takes Shape

Musyoka’s rendezvous with Gachagua, a bitter Ruto foe since his October 2024 impeachment, underscored a budding alliance aimed at dethroning the President.

Joined by Wamalwa, the trio discussed everything from Gachagua’s hypothetical reconciliation with Ruto—“imagine him landing a chopper in Wamunyoro,” Musyoka quipped—to their shared disdain for the Kenya Kwanza government. “President Ruto is becoming a common enemy here and beyond,” Musyoka said, hinting at a broad coalition that could include Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah, Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, and former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i.

Gachagua, who has spent months rallying the Mt Kenya region against Ruto, doubled down on his endorsement of Musyoka as the opposition’s 2027 flagbearer. On February 9, he boasted of a potential “Mt Kenya South” voting bloc—merging the Akamba and Mt Kenya communities—that could deliver 8 million votes, with Musyoka adding 4 million more. “We intend to beat Ruto with a margin of over six million votes,” Gachagua declared, framing their alliance as a vengeance-driven juggernaut.

Musyoka, twice Odinga’s running mate in losing presidential bids (2013 and 2017), has struggled to step out of the ODM leader’s shadow. His 2022 sidelining for Martha Karua—followed by Karua’s exit from Odinga’s camp—left him tethered to Odinga’s coalition despite their defeat to Ruto. Now, with Gachagua’s backing, Musyoka sees his clearest shot yet at the presidency. But he knows the puzzle’s missing piece is Odinga, whose ODM machinery remains a kingmaker in Kenyan politics.

The Raila Conundrum

Musyoka’s plea was as much a challenge as it was an olive branch. “Raila should reclaim his space in the opposition instead of joining a government hell-bent on making the common man’s life more miserable,” he said, accusing Ruto of “budgeted corruption” and a “payslip raid” that has slashed workers’ earnings by nearly 50% through punitive taxes. He urged Odinga to lead the opposition through 2027, warning that aligning with Ruto would alienate his base and tarnish his decades-long fight for democracy. “How can he lose all that by siding with dictators?” Musyoka asked.

Odinga’s post-AUC options, Musyoka argued, boil down to two: revive a reimagined Azimio la Umoja coalition or accept a rumored Prime Minister post in Ruto’s government. The latter, he cautioned, would be a “personal benefits” trap, sacrificing the aspirations of Kenyans who see Odinga as their champion. “Even if ODM joins Ruto, we shall remain stronger,” Musyoka vowed, pointing to recent opposition victories like derailing the controversial Adani deals as proof of their resilience.

Ruto’s Foes Circle the Wagons

The timing of Musyoka’s overture is no coincidence. Ruto’s coalition is fraying under the weight of internal dissent and public outrage, with Gachagua’s impeachment—backed by Odinga’s allies—only deepening the rift. Political pundits see Odinga as the wildcard: his decision could either bolster Ruto’s flagging legitimacy or turbocharge an opposition juggernaut. “The ODM holds the key,” Musyoka said, namechecking Odinga’s lieutenant Junet Mohammed as a potential proxy if the veteran opts out.

For now, Musyoka is betting on a united front to “rescue Kenya” from Ruto’s grip. His alliance with Gachagua, bolstered by emerging opposition voices, signals a calculated escalation in the 2027 race. But as he courts Odinga, the question looms: will the ODM patriarch heed the call—or take Ruto’s bait and redraw the political map once more?

Mudavadi Issues Evacuation Advisory for Kenyans in DRC

By

Gerald Gekara

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February 21, 2025

The Kenyan government has urged its citizens in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to exercise extreme caution and consider evacuation as the security situation deteriorates amid an intensifying conflict between Congolese forces and the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group.

The advisory, issued by Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Dr. Musalia Mudavadi, comes weeks after a mob vandalized Kenya’s embassy in Kinshasa, highlighting the growing unrest and its ripple effects across the region.

The chaos erupted on January 28, 2025, when a riotous crowd, protesting the violent clashes in eastern DRC, stormed Kenya’s diplomatic mission in the Congolese capital. The attackers damaged embassy property and threatened personnel, prompting Nairobi to issue a stern statement condemning the incident.

“Kenya remains deeply worried about the escalation of conflict in the DRC,” Dr. Mudavadi said in the latest advisory, linking the Kinshasa vandalism to the broader instability fueled by the M23 insurgency.

The conflict, which initially flared in eastern DRC near the Rwandan border, has escalated rapidly since the start of the year. M23 rebels have seized key cities, including Goma, the provincial capital of North Kivu, and are reportedly advancing toward Bukavu in South Kivu.

The United Nations estimates that the offensive has killed at least 900 people, injured over 2,000, and displaced more than 700,000 since January, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian crisis.

Reports of mass rape, slavery, and looting have further alarmed the international community.

“Following the disturbing situation, we are requesting Kenyans in DRC to take extreme caution of their security situation, and where necessary consider possible evacuation, especially from the volatile regions,” the advisory stated.

The Kenyan government has directed its nationals to contact the consulate in Goma or temporary offices in Congo Brazzaville for assistance, signaling contingency plans for a potential mass evacuation.

The embassy vandalism in Kinshasa underscores Kenya’s delicate position as a regional mediator and member of the East African Community (EAC).

President William Ruto, who chairs the EAC, has been vocal in calling for peace, co-hosting a joint EAC-Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit in Dar es Salaam on February 8.

The summit demanded an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire” and directed regional defense chiefs to devise a security plan for Goma. Dr. Mudavadi reiterated this call in the advisory, urging all parties to honor the ceasefire resolution.

However, the ceasefire declared by M23 on February 4 for “humanitarian reasons” has failed to hold, with clashes persisting despite diplomatic efforts.

The rebels’ rapid territorial gains—backed, according to UN experts, by Rwandan troops—have heightened tensions between Kinshasa and Kigali, complicating mediation attempts by Angola, Kenya, and others under the Luanda and Nairobi processes.

The attack on Kenya’s embassy may reflect local frustration with the perceived ineffectiveness of regional interventions. Some Congolese protesters accused EAC nations, including Kenya, of failing to curb Rwanda’s alleged support for M23.

Analysts suggest the vandalism could also stem from Kenya’s earlier deployment of troops to the DRC in 2022 under an EAC peacekeeping mission, which collapsed in 2023 amid mistrust with the Congolese government.

As the conflict spreads beyond eastern DRC, Kenya faces mounting pressure to protect its citizens and diplomatic interests.

The government has not disclosed the number of Kenyans in the DRC, but many are believed to be engaged in business ventures, leveraging the country’s 2022 entry into the EAC to tap its vast market. Now, with violence encroaching on previously stable areas, their safety hangs in the balance.

Dr. Mudavadi emphasized Kenya’s commitment to a peaceful resolution, stating, “We continue to urge the parties in the conflict to consider an immediate ceasefire, as adopted by the Heads of State.”

Yet, with Goma’s airport recently seized by M23 and humanitarian corridors disrupted, the window for safe evacuation may be narrowing—for Kenyans and millions of Congolese alike.