Colombia Africa Health Limited Establish A Sh200 million Outpatient Hospital In Ruiru

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March 29, 2025

Colombia Africa Health Limited, a US-based investment firm, has established a Sh200 million outpatient hospital in Ruiru, Kiambu County, targeting middle-class residents.

The newly opened facility, located at Nord Mall in Ruiru Township, marks the company’s third outpatient center in Kenya and its first outside Nairobi.

Colombia Africa is a subsidiary of Columbia Pacific Management, which has previously invested in China, Malaysia, India, Vietnam, and Indonesia before entering the Kenyan market in 2016. The company currently operates two outpatient centers in Nairobi—one in Lavington and another in Parklands—and plans to expand further within and beyond the city.

Speaking at the launch in Ruiru, Columbia Africa’s medical advisor, Dr. John Tole, said the facility will provide a wide range of outpatient services, including consultations, family medicine, maternal and child care, dental, and optical services.

“Our goal is to bring our globally recognized healthcare model directly to Ruiru residents, ensuring they receive expert-driven and compassionate care,” said Dr. Tole.

Designed as a comprehensive one-stop outpatient center, the facility aims to eliminate the need for multiple referrals or repeat hospital visits.

“We are committed to making high-quality healthcare both accessible and affordable so that families in this area receive the best possible treatment close to home. Patients will have access to expert consultations across key specialties, including pediatrics, family medicine, dermatology, and internal medicine,” he added.

The hospital is also equipped with advanced diagnostic services, including general radiology, mammography, ultrasound, a modern laboratory, and non-invasive cardiology assessments, all available under one roof.

To enhance healthcare accessibility, the facility has partnered with leading insurance providers, allowing patients to access services with minimal out-of-pocket costs.

Columbia Africa’s Family Physician and Clinical Head, Dr. Linda Thorpe, emphasized that by offering affordable wellness programs and patient-friendly policies, the hospital aims to encourage preventive healthcare.

“This facility will be a relief to the area’s growing middle class, which is constantly seeking modern yet affordable healthcare options,” said Dr. Thorpe.

STOLEN VEHICLE RECOVERED; TWO SUSPECTS ARRESTED

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Editor

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March 29, 2025

Detectives from Kisauni Sub-County have apprehended two suspects, Emmanuel Mugodo Sabwa, 42, and Erick Maingi Muimi, 34, in connection with a stolen vehicle.

The silver Toyota Axio, bearing registration number KDP 289B, was initially reported stolen at Buruburu Police Station in Nairobi. Acting on forensic intelligence, investigators tracked the car to the Utange area, where they found its tracking device discarded about 20 meters from a perimeter wall enclosing the compound where the vehicle was located.

Upon inspection, officers discovered that the vehicle had been fitted with a different registration plate, KDA 348V, and its front dashboard was partially dismantled—suggesting an attempt to either resell it quickly or strip it for parts.

Additional recovered items included various car keys, dismantled vehicle trackers, a key programming device, license plates (KDJ 885G, KDP 289B, SSD 763A, and KCT 278Y), two logbooks corresponding to vehicles KCU 527H and KDA 348V, and an HP laptop.

The suspects are currently being held at Mjambere Police Station as they undergo processing ahead of their arraignment. Meanwhile, the recovered items remain in police custody as evidence.

NSE Surges with 500% Profit Growth in 2024

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Gerald Gekara

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March 29, 2025

Trading At The Nairobi Securities Exchange — An employee makes notes in front of an electronic stock information screen inside the Nairobi Securities Exchange Ltd. (NSE), in Nairobi, Riccardo Gangale/Bloomberg

The Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) reported a remarkable financial turnaround in 2024, posting a net profit of Sh116.3 million — a staggering 500% increase from Sh18.4 million in 2023.

The surge highlights the exchange’s robust growth, fueled by increased transaction levies and interest income.

The NSE’s financial performance was buoyed by a 20% rise in equity transaction levy, which reached Kshs. 253.6 million in 2024, up from Kshs. 211.1 million the previous year.

Additionally, bond transaction levy more than doubled, soaring over 100% to Kshs. 169.9 million from Kshs. 64.4 million in 2023.

Interest income also grew from Kshs. 120.9 million to Kshs. 147 million, reflecting increased trading activity and investor confidence.

Despite a 13% rise in total expenses to Sh673 million, the exchange’s total investable funds increased to Sh1 billion from Sh850 million, including regulatory restricted funds of Sh292.6 million.

This financial resilience translated into improved profitability metrics, with return on assets rising from 0.9% to 5.4% and return on equity from 1% to 5.9%, indicating stronger efficiency and investor returns.

The NSE’s impressive financial performance has prompted the Board of Directors to recommend a dividend payout of Sh0.32 per share — doubling last year’s Sh0.16 — signaling confidence in the market’s growth prospects.

Analysts view this growth as a positive indicator of increased investor participation and market confidence, positioning the NSE as a key driver of Kenya’s financial sector growth.

The exchange’s strategic initiatives and expanding investor base are expected to further enhance its profitability and market influence in the coming years.

Federal Judge Orders Johnson & Johnson to Pay $1.64B in False Claims Case

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Editor

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March 29, 2025

Written By Faith Mwende

A federal judge has ordered Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen unit to pay $1.64 billion after a jury found it liable in a whistleblower lawsuit for illegally promoting the HIV drugs Prezista and Intelence.

U.S. District Judge Zahid Quraishi in Trenton, New Jersey, ruled that Janssen must pay $360 million for violating the federal False Claims Act, along with $1.28 billion in civil fines for 159,574 false claims submitted to government healthcare programs, including Medicare and Medicaid.

However, the judge dismissed a separate $30 million award for state law violations due to insufficient evidence.

The lawsuit, filed by former Janssen sales representatives Jessica Penelow and Christine Brancaccio, alleged that abel marketing but not for the alleged kickback scheme.

Johnson & Johnson has denied any wrongdoing and plans to appeal the decision, asserting that its drug promotion adhered to FDA guidelines. The case, which followed a six-week trial, underscores the serious consequences of violating federal healthcare fraud laws.

Somalia Offers U.S. Exclusive Access to Key Ports and Air Bases

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Editor

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March 29, 2025

FILE PHOTO: Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud addresses the media inside his office in Mogadishu, Somalia February 21, 2024. REUTERS/Feisal Omar/File Photo

Written By Faith Mwende

Somalia has expressed willingness to grant the United States exclusive control over strategic air bases and ports, according to a letter from President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to former U.S. President Donald Trump, as seen by Reuters on Friday.

The letter, dated March 16 and verified by a regional diplomat, reportedly offers the U.S. access to air bases in Balidogle and Berbera, as well as the ports of Berbera and Bosaso. The move, if accepted, could strengthen Washington’s military foothold in the Horn of Africa, countering the threat posed by Islamist militants in Somalia and the wider region.

However, the inclusion of Berbera, located in the self-declared independent region of Somaliland, could escalate tensions between Somalia’s federal government and the Somaliland administration. Somaliland’s Foreign Minister Abdirahman Dahir Aden dismissed the offer, stating that the U.S. is more inclined to work with Somaliland, given its stability and governance record.

“What cooperation? The USA gave up this corrupt regime called Somalia. The USA is now ready to deal with Somaliland, which has proven itself to be peaceful, stable, and democratic,” Aden told Reuters. He further asserted that “the USA is not stupid. They know who they need to deal with when it comes to Berbera port.”

While Somalia remains firm in its stance against Somaliland’s push for independence, this latest development could put the two sides on a collision course.

Balidogle, situated about 90 km northwest of Mogadishu, serves as a key military facility, while Bosaso, in the semi-autonomous Puntland region, is a vital maritime hub.

“These strategically positioned assets provide an opportunity to bolster American engagement in the region, ensuring uninterrupted military and logistical access while preventing external competitors from establishing a presence in this critical corridor,” the letter reportedly stated.

As of now, Somalia’s foreign affairs and information ministers have not issued official comments on the matter.

Fake Job Promises to Mauritius Land Travel Agency Boss in Court

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Editor

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March 29, 2025

Written By Faith Mwende

A Kenyan businesswoman accused of orchestrating a fraudulent job placement scheme that targeted hopeful job seekers has been arraigned in court.

Maria Wangare Kamunge, also known as Rish Kamunge, the Director of Trustpine Travel Agency, is alleged to have scammed dozens of individuals with fake promises of employment in Mauritius.

Reports indicate that victims were charged between Sh200,000 and Sh400,000 for job placements that never materialized.

Some of those affected traveled to Mauritius, only to find themselves stranded at the airport without support and with no jobs waiting for them, were deported back to Kenya.

Authorities have established that a total of 43 individuals lost Sh12.9 million in the fraudulent scheme. Following her court appearance, Kamunge was remanded at Capital Hill Police Station as investigations continue.

The case is set for mention today, March 28, 2025.

Meanwhile, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has urged other victims of the scam to report the matter at the Central Police Station in Nairobi.

Raila meets South Sudan President Salva Kiir in Juba in effort to ease crisis

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John Mutiso

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March 28, 2025

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on Friday March 28, 2025, held discussion with H.E President Salva Kiir, in Juba, South Sudan, regarding the political situation in the country.

According to Raila, he was encouraged by the possibility of a resolution to the conflict.

“I will be briefing other regional leaders and President William Ruto on my mission and a possible roadmap to sustainable peace and stability,” he said.

This comes after President William Ruto on Thursday March 27, 2025, appointed Odinga as the Special Envoy to South Sudan.

The appointment follows escalating tension in the country following the arrest of First Vice President Riek Machar and his wife.

Announcing the appointment, Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Song’Oei said Raila is currently in South Sudan, engaged with the latest developments from the East African country.

The former PM travelled to Juba to convey Ruto’s message to both President Salva Kiir and VP Machar and other stakeholders involved in efforts to end the escalation.

“President William Ruto, who is also the chair of the East African Community, has requested former Prime Minister Raila Odinga to be his special envoy to South Sudan. The Special Envoy is presently engaged with the escalating situation in our sisterly country, including traveling to Juba to convey the President’s message to President Kiir and Vice President Machar as well as to critical stakeholders in Juba,” Sing’Oei said.

Machar and his wife, Angelina Teny, were placed under house arrest on Wednesday night, an action that now threatens peace in the fragile nation.

The arrest follows weeks of escalating clashes between Machar’s forces and the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces near the capital Juba.

Regional leaders and bodies have been calling for restraint and de-escalation of the situation.

Congo doubles salaries for beleaguered army amid rebel advance

By

John Mutiso

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March 28, 2025

Democratic Republic of Congo doubled salaries for soldiers and police on Friday, the finance ministry said, in an apparent bid to boost morale as Rwanda-backed M23 rebels advance in the east.

M23 has seized eastern Congo’s two largest cities in a swift offensive that has left thousands dead, forced hundreds of thousands to flee their homes and piled pressure on President Felix Tshisekedi.

The pay hikes will be “a turning point towards better conditions” for the army, the finance ministry said.

An officer in North Kivu province told Reuters on Thursday he had heard about the raises, but said troops had not received even their basic salaries over the last two months since banks shut following the fall of the city of Goma.

“We learned that our pay has been doubled, but we haven’t yet experienced this increase because our salary has been frozen,” the officer said.

Congo has roughly 260,000 soldiers and other security forces, according to the 2025 budget law. Official monthly salaries since 2022 have averaged between $100 and $200 for all ranks, government documents show.

It was not immediately clear what effect the pay raise would have on the budget.

A draft law amending the budget for 2025 was due to be sent to lawmakers earlier this month but that has not emerged.

“These expenses are being incurred outside the budget. This is serious because no one will be able to monitor the actual numbers and salaries of the military personnel to be paid,” Valery Madianga, a Congolese expert on public finances, said.

Rwanda denies allegations from Congo and the UN that it supports the M23 with arms and troops, saying its forces are acting in self defence against Congo’s army and militias hostile to Kigali.

Osasuna claim Barcelona player was ineligible

By

John Mutiso

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March 28, 2025

Osasuna have launched an appeal to the Royal Spanish Football Federation, claiming Barcelona defender Inigo Martinez was ineligible to play against them on Thursday.

Martinez did not join up with the Spain squad for the recent international break because of a knee injury.

Fifa rules prohibit a player from playing for his club within five days – unless he has the national FA’s permission – if he has not joined up with his country when called up.

Barca’s 3-0 win over Osasuna in La Liga, rearranged from 8 March after the death of club doctor Carles Minarro Garcia, came the day after the international window ended – and four days after Spain’s Nations League match with the Netherlands.

Martinez played the full 90 minutes against Osasuna.

A club statement read: “Club Atletico Osasuna believes that Inigo Martinez, whose absence from the Spanish national team was due to a medical leave, was not eligible to play in yesterday’s match in accordance with Fifa regulations.

“In light of this, the Navarrese club has decided to file an appeal for improper fielding in defence of his rights, the fairness of the competition, and the equality of all participants.”

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick had criticised the timing of the rescheduled match, with 27-goal Raphinha missing out after travelling back from Brazil duty.

We don’t deserve Club World Cup bonus – Guardiola

By

John Mutiso

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March 28, 2025

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola doesn’t believe his squad deserves any of the £97m prize money their club will pocket by winning the Club World Cup this summer.

World governing body Fifa announced the rewards for doing well at the expanded 32-team event in the United States earlier this week.

Europe’s major clubs are expected to get the lion’s share, with both City and Chelsea – who qualified by winning the Champions League in 2023 and 2020 respectively – in line to collect the biggest prize pot in club football by winning it.

City start their campaign against Moroccan side Wydad in Philadelphia on 18 June and have been drawn in a group that also contains Al Ain from Abu Dhabi, and Italian challengers Juventus.

Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Paris St-Germain are among the other European heavyweights taking part.

However, even if City lift the trophy at the MetLife Stadium on 13 July, Guardiola feels an overall campaign where his side were eliminated from the Champions League before the last-16 stage for the first time since 2013 and are currently fifth in the Premier League – and under severe pressure to secure qualification to Europe’s elite competition next season – should not mean an additional reward.

“We don’t deserve a bonus this season,” said Guardiola. “The bonus, if you win, I don’t know how much, it’s for the club.

“The managers, the backroom staff, the players, we don’t deserve – not even a watch.”

The Premier League also confirmed on Thursday top-flight clubs will be able to take advantage of an initial transfer window, that will open between 1-10 June, before the tournament, when competing clubs will be allowed to add to their squad for the knockout phase.

It means there is uncertainty over how long Kevin de Bruyne and Ilkay Gundogan will be involved for, if at all.

Both have City contracts that expire on 30 June, although the rules have also been changed to allow short-term extensions.

Guardiola says there has been no developments over De Bruyne’s future.

“It’s a question for the club and Kevin,” he said. “He’s a player, so yes (he would like De Bruyne in USA), but I’m just concerned about what happens until the end of the season.”

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