NAIROBI HOSPITAL WRANGLES DEEPENS AS NEW CHAIRMAN TAKES OVER

The new chairman of Nairobi hospital Prof Herman Manyora addressing a press conference 

Nairobi Hospital a leading private healthcare provider in Kenya has today held a press conference to clarify to the public, members of staff and stakeholders on the recent developments on the leadership wrangles.

Speaking during the press conference at the hospital the new chairman of board of management Herman  Manyora  has said Dr. Barcley Onyambu was removed from the position of chairman of the Board following a board meeting held on 30th June in accordance with hospital articles of association. 

According to  Manyora Dr. Onyambu has declined to relinquish the position of chairman,assisted by the chief executive officer and the company secretary forcing the board to move to court to protect the operations of the hospital by obtaining a court order to freeze the CEO from accessing the hospital and conducting board meetings and  retreats therefore decisions made Dr Onyambu and CEO  are null and avoid .

120 BED CAPACITY HOSPITAL IN TALA TO BOOST MACHAKOS HEALTH ACCESS

 In a transformative step for healthcare delivery in Kenya’s Eastern region, The Tala Hospital has officially opened its doors marking the debut of a modern, purpose-built medical facility designed to provide accessible and high-quality care to the region’s growing population. 

Located in Tala town, Machakos County, the hospital is poised to become a key health anchor in the area, offering a wide range of outpatient, diagnostic, and specialist services.

With an inpatient capacity of 120 beds alongside an outpatient department and a modern accident & emergency unit, maternity unit, renal unit, intensive care unit (ICU), surgical theatres, laboratory, fully fitted dental unit, ophthalmology centre, radiology department with a 128-slice CT scanner, and specialized clinics, The Tala Hospital is designed to serve the residents of Machakos County and beyond. 

Speaking during the official launch, Dr Thomas Maingi, Tala Hospital Board Chairman, noted that it represents a new chapter in Kenya’s ongoing quest for equitable and affordable healthcare. 

“This facility is a promise to the people of Machakos County, and Kenya in general, that quality care can and should be within reach. We will be providing expert care with skilled professionals and state-of-the-art medical equipment. It stands as a testament to the collaboration, vision, and dedication of individuals who believed in the power of healing and hope.We are fully accredited by the relevant government agencies and insurers so everyone can access our services,” said Dr Maingi.

Founded by a team of Kenyan healthcare entrepreneurs and doctors, the hospital is part of a broader movement to bridge the rural-urban healthcare divide. In an area where patients often have to travel long distances, The Tala Hospital promises a new experience for patients. 

“To us, this hospital is a catalyst for improving health outcomes in this part of the country and supporting the socio-economic development of Machakos County by making it easier for families to access health services. We are proud to bring a facility of this calibre to the county. We believe that together, through public-private collaboration, we can make significant strides in strengthening the healthcare system,” added Mr. Stanley Mutua, Director, The Tala Hospital.

Mr. Cosmas Ngula Masesi, Matungulu Sub-County Administrator, Machakos County, who graced the official opening of the hospital, noted the value of investment in healthcare, praising the investment as a major boost for the region. 

“The opening and operation of The Tala Hospital is a milestone not only for this community but for the entire country. It reflects the growing role of private sector innovation in supporting the government’s health agenda. We welcome this, and more partnerships that are geared towards improving service delivery and the health of every citizen,” said Mr. Ngula. 

USHIRIKA DAY CELEBRATIONS SET TO AWARDS BEST SACCOS

MR. DANIEL MARUBE SPEAKING AT A PRESS CONFERENCE 

The Co-operative Alliance of Kenya, the apex body of the Cooperatives will be hosting this years ushirika day at the Kenyatta convention center (KICC)on 12th July  themed “Cooperatives Build a Better World” This follows county chapters to be held on 5th of July.

Speaking during a press conference at CIC plaza in Nairobi Daniel Marube vice chairperson National ushirika day has said  over one hundred and seventy cooperatives are expected to attended and exhibit culminating to awards ceremony in 12th July.Marube has called on the youths to fully participate in cooperatives and cie for positions since there is space for the youths and women to participate in leadership.

 

A bill is in senate to ensure in future no sacco funds will be lost through corrupt gatekeepers and if lost their properties will be auctioned to recover the funds,a move that will restore public confidence in sacco investments.Further the Co-operatives are embracing technology with a mews formed Cop Tech that will use new technologies to minimise loses and risks in lending and pilferage.

Cooperatives have employed over 750,000 Kenyans across the country making saccos a major source of income through loans that serve to uplift the lives of Kenyans however the non performing loans have been a major issue currently standing at 5percent according to Marube. 

NATIONAL ALTERNATIVE ALLIANCE VOWS TO CONTINUE SABASABA DEMONSTRATIONS CALLING ON THE PRESIDENT TO ADDRESS LOW HANGING FRUITS TO CALM KENYANS

The National Alternative Alliance held a press conference in Nairobi today to address the public on the upcoming Saba Saba Day demonstrations, scheduled for Monday. Led by activist Anold Maliba, the alliance confirmed that the protests will proceed as planned despite any potential challenges.

Anold Maliba the party leader of NAA  emphasized that the demonstrations will go on, citing ongoing grievances that necessitate continued public action. The protests are expected to draw significant attention to the alliance's demands, with Maliba calling on citizens to remain peaceful and united in their pursuit of justice and accountability.

The alliance urged Kenyans to participate actively in the demonstrations, emphasizing the importance of collective action in bringing about change. "We need to stand together and voice our demands," Maliba said. "The time for action is now."Maliba said the president has alternative to adrress some of the low hanging fruits to calm the rising political temperatures Including conduct elections on the youth council to elect new youth leaders, addressing the expensive SHA health cover , buying new military equipments instead of the 104 billion health scam and addressing the never ending statehouse renovations that continue to swallow public money.

The announcement has sparked varied reactions from the public, with some expressing support for the demonstrations and others voicing concerns about potential disruptions. As Saba Saba Day approaches, the city is bracing for possible protests and heightened security measures.This comes amid the Genz z push for change in governance through protests which has seen the government continued abductions and extra judicial killings been castigated.

There has been no official statement from the government regarding the planned demonstrations. However, security agencies are expected to take measures to ensure public safety and order during the protests.

The Saba Saba Day demonstrations are anticipated to be a significant historical event, drawing attention to the issues championed by the National Alternative Alliance. With the protests set to go ahead as planned, the city is preparing for a potentially busy Monday even as Maloba called on the president to end the RSF scandal which has seen Kenyan diplomatic ties and Sudan strained. 

GLOBAL HEALTHCARE EXPERTS GATHER AT EVIDENCE SUMMIT TO SHAPE FUTURE OF PATIENT CARE

In a landmark gathering, the Evidence Summit brought together healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers from around the world to discuss the latest developments in evidence-based medicine. The conference, held over two days, featured presentations, panel discussions, and workshops focused on advancing patient care through rigorous scientific research.

Keynote speakers shared groundbreaking research on topics such as personalized medicine, clinical trials, and healthcare policy. Dr. Maria, a prominent figure in the field, highlighted the importance of translating research findings into clinical practice. “The gap between research and practice is a significant challenge,” she noted. “We need to work together to bridge this gap and improve patient outcomes.”

The summit also provided a platform for early-career researchers to showcase their work and connect with established experts in the field. Participants praised the event for its emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge-sharing.

Organizers of the Evidence Summit said the event aimed to foster a global community committed to evidence-based healthcare. “This summit represents a crucial step forward in our collective effort to improve healthcare outcomes,” said Dr. Jane, a leading organizer. “By bringing together experts from diverse backgrounds, we can drive meaningful change in patient care.”

The Evidence Summit concluded with a series of recommendations for future research and policy initiatives, setting the stage for continued progress in evidence-based medicine.

KAKAMEGA COUNTY SPEAKER LOUDS GEN Z PUSH FOR CHANGE

The speaker of kakamega county assembly Hon James Namatsi joined congregants at ACK Shibale church accompanied by Hon Ali Okomba member of county assembly for mumias central ward over the weekend where the speaker encouraged the youths to continue pushing for change. 

Addressing the church on Sunday the speaker urged gen z  youths to remain focussed in the society as they champion for a new dawn in the country. 

The service was marked by spiritual reflections and unity symbolizing deep commitment to faith and spiritual values fostering social cohesion. 

KEPSA CALLS FOR EXPANDING MARKET ACCESS FOR SMEs

The 2nd Edition of the Annual SME Conference, Awards, and Exhibition, hosted by the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA), has kicked off today at the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD). The two-day event brings together over 1000 participants to address market access challenges for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and drive sustainable economic growth. Themed, “Bridging Opportunities and Breaking Barriers on Market Access for SMEs,” the conference includes an award ceremony, an exhibition, and a business clinic.

 

SMEs are a cornerstone of the global economy, making up 90 percent of businesses worldwide and being crucial for employment creation, output production, and overall economic growth. In Kenya, SMEs are particularly vital, contributing over 80% to employment creation and accounting for approximately 33.8% of the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

 

Despite their significant economic importance, Kenyan SMEs encounter considerable market access challenges that impede their growth and competitiveness. These challenges include limited connections, inadequate market intelligence, and logistical barriers, which restrict their ability to access broader markets and diversify customer bases. Additionally, high entry costs, regulatory requirements, and compliance standards impose further financial and administrative burdens. Such obstacles not only hinder the growth of SMEs but also limit their potential to contribute more substantially to economic transformation. Addressing these barriers is therefore critical to enabling SMEs to unlock their full potential and achieve sustainable growth.

 

In his opening address, the chief guest, Hon. FCPA Wycliffe Oparanya, commended KEPSA for its unwavering dedication to empowering Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). He acknowledged KEPSA's role in the launch of "MSME Connect," a public-private dialogue spearheaded by his Ministry.

 

"My Ministry, working closely with strategic partners such as KEPSA, has developed the Kenya Public Private Sector MSMEs Dialogue dubbed MSMEs Connect, a transformative initiative aimed at strengthening support ecosystems, accelerating enterprise growth, and institutionalising strong public-private collaboration across the MSME sector in a more coordinated approach." Noted Hon. Oparanya, while adding that the Ministry has initiated a nationwide public participation drive for the Draft MSME Policy 2025, which seeks to tackle persistent issues such as access to affordable credit, delayed payments, and regulatory obstacles hindering enterprise growth.

 

Ms. Brenda Mbathi, KEPSA Vice Chair, affirmed KEPSA's commitment to fostering a conducive business environment for SMEs. "We look to create a business environment that promotes Kenyans' global competitiveness by supporting the growth and impact of SMEs. Our advocacy continues to shape an enabling business environment for SMEs to grow and prosper," she stated.

 

The conference will also recognise nine SMEs for exemplary innovations. The winners of the Innovation Excellence Awards for the best overall business innovation, best youth-led business innovation, and best women-led business innovation will also be honoured. Additionally, six SME enablers will be feted during the award ceremony. These awards aim to recognise the exceptional efforts and contributions of organisations that have played a significant role in enabling the growth and success of SMEs. The Innovation Excellence Awards received 293 submissions, while the SME Enablers of the Year Awards garnered 183 entries, indicating robust participation and interest within the SME community.

 

HUMAN RIGHTS BODY CASTIGATES GOVERNMENT TO END MEDIA BAN, PROTECT RIGHTS TO ASSEMBLE

 Kenyan authorities should be held accountable for all abuses during countrywide protests on June 25, 2025, including killings, gun injuries, and beatings, Human Rights Watch said today. Authorities should also embrace international norms and, going forward, ensure security forces’ response to the ongoing protests is lawful and adheres to international human rights standards.

Thousands of people took to the streets on the morning of June 25 in Nairobi and across several counties in Kenya to commemorate the deaths of the protesters who were killed by security forces during the June 2024 demonstrations. At the time of writing, preliminary media reports indicated that, in addition to the police presence, Kenyan authorities deployed the military to push back large numbers of protesters heading toward Nairobi’s Central Business District and the State House, the official residence of the president. According to media reports, at least 16 people were shot dead by the police, including one each in Machakos, Kisii, and Nakuru counties, while over 400 people were reportedly admitted to Kenyatta National Hospital with bullet wounds and other injuries. Among those admitted for treatment was NTV journalist Ruth Sarmwei, who was hit by a rubber bullet while covering the protests.

“Kenyan authorities should not treat protesters as criminals,” said Otsieno Namwaya, associate Africa director at Human Rights Watch. “Both Kenyan law and international human rights law require Kenya to recognize protests as a legitimate form of expression that the government should protect rather than ruthlessly silence.”

This afternoon, the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) issued a directive signed by its director general, David Mugonyito, to all television and radio stations to end live broadcasts of the protests, as they allegedly “are contrary to Articles 33(2) and 34(1) of the Constitution of Kenya and Section 46I of the Kenya Information and Communications Act, 1998.”

Shortly after the release of the CA directive, at least three television stations—NTV, KTN, and Citizen TV—reported that their signals had been switched off for allegedly defying the directive. Key players in the media sector, notably the Kenya Union of Journalists and Kenya Editors Guild, have described the CA action as a threat to press freedom.

The Kenya Media Sector Working Group, the Law Society of Kenya, and a coalition of civil society organizations accused the government of ignoring the constitution and a court order that found a similar directive issued during the 2024 protests to be unconstitutional and urged media houses to ignore it. In the early evening, a high court in Milimani, Nairobi, issued a conservatory order suspending the CA ban on media coverage of the protests.

Reports by Kenyan and international human rights organizations, including Human Rights Watch, found that police and other security agencies, such as the military and the secret service, were implicated in the killing, abductions, disappearances, and maiming of both protesters and non-protesters during the 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests across Kenya.

The 2024 protests took a violent turn on June 25 of that year when security forces used lethal force to disperse protesters who breached the walls of the Kenyan parliament and made their way into the chambers. The state-funded Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) reported in December 2024 that police had killed at least 63 and abducted 87 between June and October 2024. Still today, the whereabouts of at least 26 people remain unknown.

In May 2025, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) said it had completed investigations of 22 deaths that occurred during the 2024 protests, but only two of these are in court. Kenyan human rights groups have criticized the IPOA for not doing enough to ensure police accountability.

“Kenyan authorities should refrain from deploying the military, which has been implicated in serious abuses in the past, to manage peaceful protests,” Namwaya said. “President William Ruto should uphold constitutional guarantees of media and press freedom by immediately ensuring the restoration of signals of media houses switched off by the CA.”

KENYAN YOUTH AMBASSADOR JOINS WORLD LEADERS AT AFRICAN UNION FORUM IN EGYPT

JENNIFER WAIRIMU WARIDI FOUNDATION SPEAKING AT AU FORUM IN EGYPT 

Jenniffer Wairimu Waruingi, popularly known as Waridi, is making waves across the continent as one of Kenya’s boldest voices in youth leadership, sustainable agriculture, and Pan-African development. As President of the Kenya Youth Organization (KYO) and Founder of Waridi Foundation, she recently delivered a keynote speech at a high-level African Union (AU) forum in Cairo, focusing on the implementation of the CAADP Kampala Strategy—Africa’s roadmap to food security by 2035.

Waridi was invited as a speaker to represent Kenya’s youth and shared the impact of her work in advancing agribusiness through KYO and Waridi Foundation. With all AU member states present and the Egyptian Ministry of Agriculture officiating, she emphasized the critical importance of youth and women inclusion in agri-food systems, calling for structured participation beyond tokenism.

 “Africa cannot achieve food sovereignty if youth and women remain sidelined,” she said. “We are vital actors—not just participants—and must be fully integrated into decision-making and implementation processes.”

Through her continental platform, the Africa Development Tour, Waridi is uniting young changemakers across borders to share innovation, promote sustainable tourism, and build a movement for a self-reliant and food-secure Africa. She also leads Kwetu Inn Africa, a travel and tourism brand promoting the continent’s rich culture, eco-experiences, and development potential—closely tied to her mission of rebranding Africa from the inside out.

Reflecting on Egypt’s agricultural innovation despite its desert terrain, Waridi praised the country’s strategic investments in irrigation, research, and food resilience. She challenged Kenya’s Ministry of Agriculture, under CS Mutahi Kagwe, to adopt similar bold strategies while ensuring that structured youth-led organizations like the Kenya Youth Organization are recognized and involved.

 “We must go beyond boardroom policies and activate change on the ground. Youth are not just the future—they are the farmers, innovators, and solution architects of today,” she added.

A daughter of Lamu’s renowned farmer, Michael Waruingi, Waridi’s leadership is rooted in lived experience, combining local truth with continental impact. Her vision is clear: a food-secure, youth-driven, self-reliant Africa.

AIR FRANCE DEPLOYS AIRBUS A350 TO PARIS NAIROBI ROUTE

 Air France has introduced the Airbus A350-900 on its Paris–Nairobi route, reinforcing its strategic commitment to increase seat capacity in response to growing demand for both business and leisure travel. The new aircraft replaces the Boeing 787- 9, which has hitherto been flying the route, with a 16% increase in seat capacity. 

Over the past three years, Air France has recorded a steady rise in passenger numbers on this route, in response to which it welcomed the Airbus A350-900 on Monday at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, marking the aircraft’s maiden voyage to the Kenyan capital. This development signals a significant expansion of Air France’s footprint in East Africa and forms part of the carrier’s broader fleet modernization strategy.

“This aircraft brings about 16% more seats to Kenya and this implies that we can accommodate further growth in the Kenyan market against increasing demand for Paris and Europe as travel destinations,” said Joris Holtus, Air France-KLM’s General Manager for East and Southern Africa, Nigeria, and Ghana.

The Airbus A350-900 offers enhanced passenger comfort, greater capacity, and consuming lesser fuel than equivalent-sized previous-generation aircraft. The introduction of the new aircraft underscores Air France’s intention to provide a superior travel experience while meeting the increasing market demand.

“This aircraft perfectly aligns with two pillars of our strategy. The first is premiumisation—that is, bringing premium products to our customers. The Airbus A350 symbolizes this by introducing premium business, premium-economy and economy classes. The second pillar of our strategy is decarbonization and the Airbus A350 consume up to 25% less fuel than an equivalent-sized previous-generation aircraft,” said Holtus.

The Airbus A350’s unveiling coincides with renewed momentum from the Air France-KLM Africa office, in Nairobi, which has since inception, in 2023, been instrumental in driving regional growth and reconnecting with East African travellers. As the airline deepens its commitment to the region, the deployment of aeroplane marks both a technological upgrade and a strategic milestone in Air France’s ongoing investment. Currently about 25% of Air France’s fleet comprises next-generation aircraft against plans to increase this to 50% by 2025 and 80% by 2030. And with just over 38 of the Airbus A350 currently in its fleet, Air France’s decision to assign one to Nairobi, a route now served with three daily flights, highlights the city's rising status as a key African hub.

“We are enhancing passenger comfort and operational efficiency, while laying down a vital link that supports the region’s growing demand for world-class air travel. This move also reflects our long-term commitment to the African market and our belief in Nairobi’s pivotal role in shaping the next chapter of aviation across the continent,” said Hildabeta Amiani, Air France-KLM’s Country Sales Manager, Kenya. 

The global airline industry is poised to carry a record 4.99 billion[1] passengers by the end of this year, according to new projections by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), signalling a full recovery and renewed growth five years after the coronavirus pandemic brought air travel to a halt.

The expected figure marks a 4.4 percent increase over 2024 and 9.4% over pre-pandemic levels. The growth also comes despite a broader economic slowdown. While global GDP growth is projected to fall from 3.3 percent in 2024 to 2.5 percent in 2025[2], airlines are on course to profitability, driven largely by operational efficiencies and a surge in passenger demand. Load factors—an industry measure of seat occupancy—are expected to reach an all-time high of 84 percent, even as aircraft manufacturing continues to be hampered by supply chain constraints.

The momentum is especially strong in Africa, where revenue per kilometer rose by 13.2 percent last year[3]. The continent has seen a resurgence in business and tourism travel, as markets rebound from the long tail of the pandemic.

Meanwhile, the introduction of the A350-900, one of the most fuel-efficient long-haul aircraft in operation, reaffirms Air France’s dual focus of meeting growing passenger demand while cutting its environmental footprint. The A350-900, which carries up to 44%[4] more passengers than its predecessor (A330-200), offers significant environmental gains, consuming 25 percent less fuel, translating to just 2.5 liters per passenger per 100 kilometers[5]. This is thanks to an ultralight design that includes 53 percent composite materials and 14 percent titanium[6]. Its aerodynamic profile also reduces noise by 40 percent[7], helping ease pressure on airport-adjacent communities.

Inside, the aircraft is designed with passenger comfort in mind. It features a reconfigured cabin layout across all classes, 30 percent larger windows, enhanced air pressure systems for improved cabin ambiance, and adaptive lighting to reduce jet lag. It also boasts one of the quietest twin-aisle cabins in the sky.

Across the world, Air France’s broader modernization strategy aims for more than half of its fleet to consist of new-generation aircraft by the end of 2025, a shift the airline describes as essential to meeting international climate targets. Other sustainability efforts include eco-piloting techniques, onboard recycling, and the phase-out of single-use plastics.

PRIVATE SECTOR CALLS FOR DE-ESCALATION OF THE CURRENT NATIONAL SITUATION

 In a private sector conversation held on the sidelines of the 21st Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) Annual General Meeting (AGM) today, members expressed concern over the escalation of the disregard for the rule of law, leading to the deaths of young Kenyans.

 

We send our sincere condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives or been injured in the hands of the security officers or otherwise, while exercising their rights to peaceful assembly and when airing their grievances as enshrined in the constitution.

 

The business community has been actively working closely with the government and other stakeholders to create a conducive business environment both inwardly and globally. As a result, Kenya has grown into an attractive destination for business and foreign investment. We need to ensure that these efforts are not watered down, so that businesses do not shut down due to the escalation of emotions and public unrest.

 

To the youth, we acknowledge that you are an integral part of the business community, whether as entrepreneurs, employers, or employees. The private sector remains committed to addressing all concerns that will ensure the lives of all Kenyans are protected and sustainable jobs are created and maintained.

 

Furthermore, we understand that the security officers don’t always operate in the easiest environment. Yet, as they navigate the everyday challenges, they must have the protection of lives and livelihoods at the forefront of their minds and hearts. In executing their mandate, we expect them to follow the rule of law.

 

To the political class, we urge you to gauge your actions and utterances to avoid further weakening the social and economic fabric upon which our society, including the private sector, depends on. The public, including the security officers, takes their cue from you, and the effects are felt widely, including by investors.

 

The private sector advocates for a governance model that prioritises public accountability and the peaceful expression of grievance as enshrined in the constitution. In light of this, we are calling for an urgent de-escalation of the situation to prevent it from leading to further loss of life, destruction of property, and negative impacts on businesses.

 

The private sector commits to continue engaging closely around these areas with the relevant stakeholders as well as under the Mkenya Daima Initiative. Mkenya Daima is an initiative inspired by the private sector but belongs to all Kenyans. It represents a collective of diverse stakeholders, including the business community, religious leaders, and civil society, united in the pursuit of a prosperous and equitable Kenya.